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HotelTaxi

Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu (KTM) → Sauraha, Chitwan transfer

The drive from Tribhuvan International Airport to Sauraha, the gateway village of Chitwan National Park, is 154 km and takes about 269–337 minutes. A car for up to three passengers typically costs around €95–130 and a minivan for up to seven €130–175; the exact price is shown before you book.

From
Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu (KTM)
To
Sauraha, Chitwan
Distance
154 km
Typical drive
269–337 min

You swap the mountain air of Kathmandu for the warm, flat Terai lowlands, where the park protects one-horned rhinos, elephants and many bird species.

From the hills to the Terai

The route shares the Prithvi Highway with traffic to Pokhara as far as Mugling, following the Trishuli River. There it turns south on the road to Narayanghat, along the gorge of the Trishuli as it heads for the plains.

At Narayanghat the landscape opens out. The final leg runs east on the East-West Highway to Tandi and then south on a local road to Sauraha, at the edge of the Rapti River.

Staying in Sauraha

Riverside lodges
Many hotels face the Rapti River and the park on the far bank, where sunsets and wildlife on the sandbanks are part of the view.
Park activities
Jungle walks, canoe trips and jeep safaris are booked locally through lodges or licensed guides.
Quieter areas
Some resorts sit outside the village on sandy tracks. Send the exact name so the driver knows the final approach.

Climate and best months

October to March is pleasant, with cool mornings that can be misty in winter. April and May grow very hot, and the monsoon from June to September brings heavy rain, higher rivers and landslide risk on the hill section of the road.

Pack light clothes, sun protection and insect repellent, plus a warm layer for early winter safaris.

Frequently asked questions

How long does the drive from Kathmandu airport to Chitwan take?

Typically about 4.5 to 5.5 hours for the 154 km to Sauraha. Monsoon conditions and roadworks can extend this considerably.

Is there an airport closer to Chitwan?

Bharatpur has a domestic airport with flights from Kathmandu. Many travellers still choose the road for flexibility and luggage.

Can I continue from Chitwan to Pokhara or Lumbini?

Yes, both are a few hours' drive from Sauraha. Those are separate transfers from Chitwan rather than from the airport.

Is park entry included?

No. Park entry and safari activities are arranged locally and paid separately. The transfer covers the private vehicle only.

Will the car drive into the national park?

No, the transfer ends at your lodge in or near Sauraha. Inside the park you travel with licensed guides and park vehicles.

More transfers from Tribhuvan International Airport

Tribhuvan International Airport: arrival and transfer guide