The ideal vacation package to explore Nepal’s natural beauty and the wilderness of the well-known Chitwan National Park is the Kathmandu-Chitwan tour. The drive from Kathmandu to Chitwan offers stunning scenery. For visitors, the Prithvi Highway links Chitwan, another important Nepalese city, with Kathmandu.

Travelers from all around the world are familiar with Chitwan. UNESCO has designated Chitwan National Park, the oldest national park in Nepal, as a world heritage site. The Chitwan National Park’s primary draws, drawing visitors from all over the world, are the one-horn rhino and the Royal Bengal tiger. 

The term “heart of the jungle” refers to Chitwan. The Tharu King Chitrasen originally ruled over the well-known Inner Terai valley, hence its name. Apart from that, Chitwan is among the most admired, naturally attractive, and culturally endowed areas of Nepal.

On the way to Chitwan, a significant town is Narayanghat. To get to Chitwan, you’ll have to go through Narayanghat. You’ll go through charming villages, terraced farms, and stunning scenery along the route. 

How to Get From Kathmandu to Chitwan

From Kathmandu, there are multiple options for Chitwan. Depending on the kind of vehicle, it takes approximately 5 to 6 hours to get to Chitwan from Kathmandu. About 175 kilometers will be driven by you. From Kathmandu to Naubise, you will travel the Tribhuvan Highway by car.

You will then proceed to drive towards Narayanghat along the Prithvi Highway. Flying from Kathmandu to Bharatpur, the airport closest to Chitwan, is an additional, less popular option. The most convenient and effective method of getting from Kathmandu to Chitwan is via chartered helicopter. If time is of the essence but you still want to see the National Park, this is your best bet.

Traveling from Kathmandu to Chitwan via tourist bus is a common route. Approximately ten to fifteen businesses provide tourist bus services, and the buses operated by different companies leave at roughly the same time. 

Select public buses if you want to go overland in the manner that the locals do. The rear space of public buses is primarily occupied by luggage, and they lack air conditioning. There is much less comfort in using a local bus. Not only is there no air conditioning, but the outdated, worn-out seats are uncomfortable, and the speakers are playing loud music.

Kathmandu to Chitwan Vehicle Cost

Several factors, including the type of vehicle, mode of transportation, and whether or not you’re hiring a private vehicle, affect the cost of driving from Kathmandu to Chitwan. Surprisingly, buying tickets straight from your hotel or travel agency can end up being less expensive.

Private car rentals are more flexible and convenient than public transportation, but they are typically more costly. A tourist bus ticket from Kathmandu to Chitwan typically costs between NPR 1000 and NPR 2500 per person.

Type of VehicleCapacityEstimated 

Duration

Non-A/C rent costA/C rent Cost
Car3 persons 5-6hrsUS$ 90US$ 110
Bus25 persons 6-7hrsUS$225US$ 350
Jeep5 persons 5-6HrsUS$153US$ 150

Hiace

14 persons 5-6hrsUS$190US$ 180

Tourist buses from Kathmandu to Chitwan come equipped with air conditioning, mineral water, and cozy seats, among other conveniences. 

The type of bus and the passenger’s country of origin determine how much a tourist bus ticket costs.

Bus Price (Nepali)Price (Foreigner)
Sofa tourist busRs. 1300$13.
Deluxe Tourist BusRs. 850US $8

Kathmandu to Chitwan Road Condition

The scenery on the trip to Chitwan from Kathmandu is breathtaking. However, take note that the road that connects Chitwan with Kathmandu is in fair condition. Road conditions can change, therefore drivers need to be ready for that.

Although there are often few potholes, uneven surfaces, and sporadic traffic jams on the Prithvi Highway, it is generally kept up properly. Although the road is in decent shape, landslides could block it during heavy rains. 

The trip experience is generally slow because of the traffic, despite the stunning vistas. During this period, you must drive carefully and keep yourself informed about the weather and road conditions before starting your trip.

Budget-friendly Travel Options

A local bus is a better option if you’re on a tight budget or seeking an authentic experience. However, there are several affordable options during travel from Kathmandu to Chitwan.

  • When traveling from Kathmandu to Chitwan, public buses are the most affordable alternative. Depending on the bus type, the price per person normally varies between NPR 500 and NPR 1000.
  • The best way to go from Kathmandu to Chitwan is by tourist bus. The bus leaves the Tourist Bus Stop at 7:00 a.m. and travels to Chitwan over six hours. Between Chitwan to Kathmandu In addition to air conditioning and more comfortable seating, tourist buses usually provide lunch stops for food and refreshments. 
  • Sharing a van or a jeep is an additional choice. These vehicles depart from Kathmandu and are available at several points across the city.

Quickest Way to Travel

Flight is the preferred option if you’re searching for a quick journey. Daily flights are offered by several airlines between Kathmandu and Chitwan. From Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, there is a domestic flight to Bharatpur Airport, which is close to Chitwan.

It is advised that you purchase your ticket in advance and check in online. In addition to saving more than two hours at the airport, you will have additional possibilities if you can select your seat in a first-come, first-served manner.

Picking your form of transportation should take your tastes and money into account, as it could be more costly than travelling by road.

Vehicle Rental For Kathmandu to Chitwan

There are several rental options available for different kinds of groups on the Kathmandu to Chitwan Trip. Various businesses provide rental services that include fuel and a driver. 

  • From Kathmandu to Chitwan A family vacation can benefit from a family vehicle rental. Except the driver, it can accommodate four persons. Depending on the state of the roads, it takes five to six hours to reach Chitwan.
  • Between Chitwan to Kathmandu With the driver excluded, a Toyota Hiace Van rental can accommodate seven to nine people. Depending on the state of the roads, getting to Chitwan takes five to six hours.
  • For a group of five to six people (not including the driver), a Jeep rental from Kathmandu to Chitwan works well. Relying on the state of the roads, Chitwan can be reached in 5 to 6 hours.

When is the Best Time to Visit Chitwan

October through March, during the dry season, is the ideal time to explore Chitwan National Park. Clear skies, comfortable temps, and little precipitation make for perfect weather during this time of year for outdoor activities and animal observation.

In contrast to summer and winter, autumn offers comparatively nicer days. It is easier to see animals gathering around waterholes during these months since the vegetation is less dense. 

People in the jungle mow the grass in January and February, which makes a big difference in the animals’ visibility. You can see animals in the national park during this time of year, often just a few feet away.

From June to September, the monsoon season in Chitwan renders safari unavailable. Only during this period is it possible to visit the buffer zone. In lakes, rivers, and water holes, the animals are commonly observed attempting to stay cool. But there are days when the sun shines fiercely and the temperature rises.

Top Rated Things to Do in Chitwan

  • Stroll through a jungle in the National Park’s thick tropical forest.
  • The Rapti River is a much more refreshing place to canoe.
  • Visit the Elephant Breeding Centre to gain knowledge about the characteristics and customs of elephants. 
  • Since Chitwan’s cuisine differs from that of Kathmandu, it is a must-try to experience the local cuisine. 
  • See the Tharu Research and Cultural Centre.
  • Learning about the rich history and varied cultural values of the Tharu people while touring the intriguing village.
  • Cycling around Chitwan City’s streets after renting a bike.
  • At Devghat Dham, offer prayers.

Final Say

Road travel gives a picturesque experience through Nepal’s varied landscapes from Kathmandu to Chitwan. Travel time from Kathmandu to Chitwan, depending on the type of vehicle, is about 5 to 6 hours. You will go around 175 kilometres.

To get to Chitwan, there are several choices. You may customize your trip to fit your needs using the advantages that each option offers, like price, convenience, and speed. Despite the breathtaking views, the journey is typically slow due to traffic.

Renting a private vehicle with a driver is the best choice for anyone seeking a more comfortable travel experience. The easiest and most convenient way to get from Kathmandu to Chitwan when you’re short on time is to fly. 

Taking public transport is the most economical way to go from Kathmandu to Chitwan. But, comfort must be sacrificed; be prepared for loud music and disturbances. Their seating configurations are usually simple, and they might not include features like air conditioning or reclining chairs.

Ready to explore? Your dream trekking experience is just a message away! Contact us at Glorious Eco Trek Nepal through E-mail (gloriousecotreknepal@gmail.com) or WhatsApp (+977-9851098382) to begin the planning process and turn your outdoor aspirations into reality.

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