Lumbini is primarily served by the Gautam Buddha International Airport (BWA) in Bhairahawa, which is approximately 22-28 kilometers away. For overland travel, major bus terminals in Kathmandu, such as Gongabu Bus Park, and Pokhara's bus parks, offer connections to the region.
By Air:
The most efficient way to reach Lumbini is by flying to Gautam Buddha International Airport (BWA) in Bhairahawa.
Flights from Kathmandu (KTM) to Bhairahawa take approximately 30-35 minutes. Major airlines operating this route include Buddha Air, Yeti Airlines, and Shree Airlines, with multiple daily flights available. A one-way ticket for foreigners typically costs around USD 86-113.
From Bhairahawa Airport, a taxi to Lumbini usually takes 15-30 minutes and costs around NPR 653 (approximately USD 5), while a local bus costs about NPR 100 (approximately USD 0.75) and takes around 30 minutes.
Flights from Pokhara (PKR) to Bhairahawa take roughly 20 minutes, with a one-way fare for foreigners around USD 78.
By Bus:
Buses offer a more budget-friendly option, though journeys are considerably longer.
From Kathmandu to Lumbini/Bhairahawa, the bus journey covers a distance of approximately 270-330 km and typically takes 9-11 hours. Deluxe and VIP tourist buses depart from Kathmandu's Gongabu Bus Park (also referred to as Kalenki or Balaju in some contexts) usually in the early morning (around 6-7 AM) and evening (around 7-7: 30 PM). Costs for foreigners range from USD 10-20, depending on the bus type (Deluxe or VIP Sofa).
From Pokhara to Lumbini/Bhairahawa, the bus journey is about 170-200 km and lasts 6-8 hours. Buses depart from Pokhara's Tourist Bus Park or New Bus Park. The cost is around NPR 1200 (approximately USD 9).
From Chitwan (Sauraha) to Lumbini, the bus ride is shorter, taking 5-6 hours and costing NPR 700-1200.
By Private Car/Taxi:
For a more comfortable and flexible journey, a private car from Kathmandu to Lumbini takes about 7-9 hours. While driving yourself might cost around USD 34-50, private transfer services will be higher.
By Train:
There is no direct train service to Lumbini. Travelers can take a train to Gorakhpur in India (approximately 122 km away), then cross the Sonauli border and continue to Lumbini by bus or taxi, which takes an additional 3-4 hours.
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