Route · Chitwan & the Terai
Kathmandu to Janakpur
Kathmandu to Janakpur is about 225 km by road, 6 to 8 hours via the BP Highway through Dhulikhel, Sindhuli and Bardibas, or a 25 to 30 minute flight to Janakpur Airport, a few minutes from the Janaki Mandir.
Several airlines fly Kathmandu to Janakpur (JKR) daily. The airport is inside the city, a short rickshaw or taxi ride from the Janaki Mandir and the ponds. Flying is the easiest way to reach Janakpur and lets you see the city in a day. Winter fog can delay flights; check current status before you travel.
The BP Highway leaves the Kathmandu Valley at Dhulikhel, follows the Sunkoshi river and crosses the hills past Sindhuli to Bardibas on the East-West Highway, then runs south-east to Janakpur. It is shorter than the old route via Hetauda and has views of the hills and river. Allow extra time in the monsoon.
Day and night buses run between Kathmandu and Janakpur. They are cheap but slow and crowded, with long stops. Travel by day if you can, as night buses on hill roads are less safe. Book through your hotel or at the bus park.
Worth a stop on the way
- Dhulikhel for Himalayan views
- Sindhuli Gadhi, an old hill fort on the BP Highway
- Bardibas junction on the East-West Highway
Local tip
Fly in and drive out, or the reverse, to see the hills of the BP Highway once without spending two full days on the road.
Questions
How long is the flight from Kathmandu to Janakpur?
About 25 to 30 minutes. Several airlines fly the route daily, and Janakpur Airport is inside the city, a few minutes from the Janaki Mandir. Winter fog in the Terai can delay morning flights. Check current status before you travel.
Which is the best road from Kathmandu to Janakpur?
The BP Highway via Dhulikhel, Sindhuli and Bardibas is the shortest, about 225 km and 6 to 8 hours. The older route via Hetauda and the East-West Highway is longer. In the monsoon, landslides can affect the BP Highway, so check current status before you travel.
Is there a bus from Kathmandu to Janakpur?
Yes, day and night buses run daily and take 8 to 10 hours. They are inexpensive but crowded and slow. We recommend day buses, a private car or a flight. Book a day ahead during festivals such as Chhath and Vivaha Panchami.
Can I visit Janakpur as a day trip from Kathmandu?
It is possible by flying out early and back in the evening, giving about six to eight hours in the city for the Janaki Mandir, ponds and a Mithila art centre. An overnight stay is more relaxed and lets you see the temple at both dawn and dusk.