Ride, Roam, Repeat : How to Explore Nepal from India the Right Way

From valid IDs to moped permits and seamless transport, here’s everything you need to know for a stress-free India‑Nepal crossing this year

Earlier this year, during a reflective stay in Shravasti’s serene Buddhist atmosphere, a Sri Lankan couple’s tales of Lumbini ignited a desire in me. With my train to Gorakhpur delayed and Kushinagar unreachable by midnight, an unplanned trip to Nepal took shape—a spontaneous journey that offers fresh lessons for 2025 travellers.

1. Border Entry Requirements

Indian & Nepali Nationals:
Thanks to the 1950 Treaty of Peace and Friendship, Indian citizens enjoy free movement into Nepal . Valid entry documents include either an Indian passport or an original Voter ID (with photo). Note: digital or printouts of IDs (Aadhaar, PAN, driving licence) are not accepted .

Foreign Nationals:
Most travellers—including citizens from the U.S., U.K., EU, Canada—can obtain a visa on arrival at land crossings like Sonauli, Kakarvitta, Bhairahawa, or by air. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months with a blank visa page. Visa fees range from USD 25–100, depending on the duration.

Important Advisory:
U.S. travelers should note recent advisories stating that U.S.-issued e‑visas are not accepted at land borders and that entering may lead to detention or fines.

2. Getting to & Through the Border

Train + Shared Taxi/Bus:
Take a train to Gorakhpur, then proceed by shared taxi or bus (approx. ₹150–300) to Sonauli. Bargaining for ₹150 coming back is common.

Direct Buses:
Daily services run from Varanasi to Sonauli—and some go all the way to Kathmandu, making this an attractive option.

Alternate Crossings:
From Siliguri, travel via Panitanki–Kakarvitta. Buses and shared jeeps connect to the Indian side until about 10 pm.

3. Border Crossing Experience

The crossing is often low-key—no heavy passport control for Indians or Nepalese. Yet, authoritative officials require only a valid photo ID. Personal cards (like blogger cards) have worked, but they’re not officially recognized. For compliant travel in 2025, carry a passport or Voter ID

4. Transit Within Nepal

Rental Moped/Cars:
You’ll need a passport and an International Driving Permit (IDP) or valid domestic license for rentals. Also, ensure you have valid motorbike insurance. During driving, check your brakes—roads are often in poor condition.

Conservation Area Permits:
Many tourists rent mopeds—they’re the best way to explore. If riding through areas like Annapurna or Mustang, obtain a TIMS card and region-specific permits (e.g., Annapurna Conservation Permit) through local authorities.

City Travel:
Kathmandu and other cities discourage horn use (“Horn Not OK Please” zones), so drive respectfully. Road quality is uneven—expect potholes and rough patches.

Public Transport Options:

• Large vans/limo vans charge NPR 5–15 per ride.
• Local buses are frequent; just ask around for routes.
• Mopeds are rentable in almost every tourist town—carrying your passport is essential.

5. Sample Itinerary for a Week (approx. 700 words)

1. Day 1: Arrive via Gorakhpur → Sonauli → Bhairahawa. Visiting Lumbini—the birthplace of Buddha.
2. Night Bus to Kathmandu (~14 hours). Prepare for a bumpy ride; make friends in the journey.
3. Day 2: Pick up a moped using passport + IDP. Ride through Kathmandu valley, including Thamel, Swayambhunath, Patan.
4. Day 3: Explore beyond—Bhaktapur or go for a day-long trip to Patan and Nagarkot.
5. Day 4: Optional trek or ride to conservation areas (ACAP). Extend your visa if needed (online or at immigration offices).
6. Day 5: Return via Sonauli. Ride out of Nepal and back to India same route.

Food Recommendations:
Stick to Dal Bhat and Chowmein for authentic, budget-friendly meals.

6. Other Tips

• SIM Cards: Turn off roaming before border crossing to avoid unexpected charges.
• Roaming Rates: Indian SIM providers can charge international rates prematurely.
• Border Times: Most land crossings close by 10 pm, so schedule arrival accordingly.
• Travel Advisory: Watch for geopolitical advisories; Nepal remains peaceful even amid regional tensions.
• Documents for Third-Country Travel: Indians traveling onward from Nepal to third countries must obtain a ‘Third‑Country NOC‘ from the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu.
• New Railway Links: A train route from Kolkata to Kathmandu, via Jaynagar–Bardibas, may resume in late 2025.
• Check Permit Requirements: Some bus operators at the India-Nepal border are under scrutiny for fake permits—confirm authenticity.

Final Word

Nepal remains one of the most accessible international travel destinations for Indians, and 2025 regulations have made crossing simpler—but documentation matters. Carry your passport or Voter ID, plan your visa (if you’re foreign), get an IDP if you’re renting a vehicle, and avoid roaming traps. Embrace the journey—from Lumbini’s serenity to Kathmandu’s chaos—and let spontaneous travel unfold its magic.

Happy travels—and safe crossing in 2025!

Team Maverick.