There are 1 way(s) to get from Nagarkot to Chitwan
Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.
Practical tips
Especially during peak season, booking your tourist coach from Kathmandu to Chitwan a day or two ahead ensures you get a seat and avoid scrambling last minute. Websites like 12go.asia or local travel agents are good options.
While local buses are cheaper, the slightly higher price for a tourist coach to Chitwan is well worth it for the improved comfort, more legroom, and generally safer driving standards on longer routes. Your back will thank you.
Aim for an early morning departure from Kathmandu to Chitwan. This minimizes travel time, helps avoid traffic congestion, and ensures you arrive at your destination with daylight to spare for check-in and settling in.
Long bus rides mean you'll appreciate having your own snacks, water, and perhaps even some entertainment. While there are stops, having your own supplies makes the journey more pleasant and convenient.
Remember that Nagarkot to Chitwan isn't direct. You'll first need to reach a main bus terminal in Kathmandu (or nearby Bhaktapur for connection) to catch your tourist coach for Chitwan. Plan for this transition.
🛣️ The journey experience
Moving from Nagarkot to Chitwan involves a transfer, as there's no direct route. The key here is understanding that while buses are plentiful, you'll first head back towards Kathmandu's main bus hub, then connect to a tourist coach for Chitwan. This two-leg journey ensures you don't end up on a local bus for the entire stretch, which can be less comfortable and significantly slower on Nepal's winding mountain roads.
Your most practical option is to take a local bus or taxi from Nagarkot to Bhaktapur, then another local bus or taxi to the Kathmandu Ring Road (Kalanki or Gongabu Bus Park, depending on your onward ticket). From there, tourist coaches depart regularly for Chitwan (Sauraha). The first leg to Kathmandu takes about 2 hours by bus for around €1-2, and the second leg to Chitwan is typically 5-7 hours by tourist coach, costing €8-10. Always verify the departure point for your Chitwan coach, as it might differ slightly.
While Nepal's bus rides can be long, knowing which segments are covered by tourist coaches versus local buses, and when a flight is essential (like for Lukla or Jomsom, which aren't relevant here but good to keep in mind), makes all the difference. For this route, combining local transport for the short Nagarkot-Kathmandu segment with a comfortable tourist coach for the longer Kathmandu-Chitwan leg is the most efficient and comfortable approach, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Frequently asked questions — Nagarkot → Chitwan
The total journey from Nagarkot to Chitwan, including transfers, typically takes between 7 and 10 hours. This accounts for the 1.5-2 hour leg to Kathmandu (or Bhaktapur for transfer), and then 5-7 hours on a tourist coach to Chitwan (Sauraha), depending on traffic and road conditions. Expect variability on Nepal's mountain roads.
The best way is a combination: a local bus or taxi from Nagarkot to a major hub like Bhaktapur or directly to Kathmandu, followed by a tourist coach from Kathmandu to Chitwan. This offers a balance of cost-efficiency and comfort, ensuring a smoother journey on the longer segment.
The total cost for the journey, including both legs, is approximately €9-€15. This breaks down to €1-€2 for the local transport from Nagarkot to Kathmandu/Bhaktapur, and then €8-€13 for a tourist coach ticket from Kathmandu to Chitwan. Prices can vary slightly by operator and booking method.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book your tourist coach ticket from Kathmandu to Chitwan at least a day in advance, especially during peak travel seasons or public holidays. This guarantees your seat and offers peace of mind, avoiding potential sold-out situations or less desirable seating options.
No, there is no direct bus service from Nagarkot to Chitwan. You will need to take local transport from Nagarkot to either Bhaktapur or a main bus terminal in Kathmandu first, and then connect to a tourist coach that goes directly to Chitwan (Sauraha). Plan for this transfer.
✨ Why visit Chitwan?
- ✓ Spot endangered one-horned rhinos, Bengal tigers, and sloth bears on a jungle safari.
- ✓ Experience local Tharu culture through village walks and traditional dance performances.
- ✓ Go birdwatching, with over 500 species, including the giant hornbill and Bengal florican.
- ✓ Canoe along the Rapti River, observing crocodiles and various aquatic birds.
- ✓ Visit the Elephant Breeding Center to learn about conservation efforts and see young elephants.
☀️ When to visit Chitwan?
SUBTROPICAL MOUSSONNÉE
October to March — Dry season offers comfortable temperatures and best wildlife viewing opportunities.
What to do in Chitwan?
Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you
⏱️ How long to visit Chitwan?
For an independent francophone traveler, 3 to 4 days are ideal to fully experience Chitwan. This allows for a good balance of safari activities (jeep, canoe, walking) and cultural immersion. Aim for a 3-day stay to cover the main attractions, extending to 4 if you want to relax more or explore nearby Tharu villages.
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