Nepalgunj – Gateway to Western Nepal
Nepalgunj is a vibrant border town in the southwestern region of Nepal, located near the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It serves as an important commercial hub and a gateway to remote areas like Humla, Dolpo, and Simikot, making it a transit point for those heading to Mount Kailash, Mansarovar, and other trekking destinations.
Nepalgunj is famous for being a vital transit point for Kailash Mansarovar Darshan tours, as it provides convenient access to remote regions of Nepal, such as Simikot and Humla, which are key gateways to the holy Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar in Tibet. For pilgrims and trekkers embarking on these sacred journeys, Nepalgunj serves as a primary starting point due to its:
- Strategic Location: Situated near the Indian border, Nepalgunj connects easily with major Indian cities like Lucknow, allowing pilgrims from India to travel seamlessly by road or air.
- Flight Connectivity: Nepalgunj has a domestic airport with regular flights to Simikot, which is the launching pad for the overland trek to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar. The short flight from Nepalgunj saves time and bypasses challenging terrain, making it a crucial transit hub.
- Logistical Hub: As a commercial center, Nepalgunj offers necessary facilities for organizing tours, including accommodation, supplies, and permits required for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. It is well-equipped to cater to the needs of travelers heading for remote, high-altitude regions.
Many travelers begin their Kailash Mansarovar Darshan tour from Nepalgunj, as it offers a convenient and well-established route for both overland and aerial pilgrimage options.
How to Reach Nepalgunj
- By Air
- Nepalgunj Airport (KEP) is well-connected with domestic flights from Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. Regular flights make it easy to reach Nepalgunj from Kathmandu in about an hour. From Nepalgunj, travelers often take connecting flights to remote destinations like Simikot.
- By Road
- From India: Nepalgunj is easily accessible by road from Lucknow (approximately 180 km away) via Rupaidiha, an Indian town at the border. The journey takes about 4-5 hours by car. Many pilgrims and travelers prefer to travel by road from Lucknow to Nepalgunj for their onward trips to Kailash or Simikot.
- From Other Parts of Nepal: The town is well connected to the rest of Nepal by road. Buses operate regularly from major cities like Kathmandu, Butwal, and Kohalpur.
Places to Visit in and Around Nepalgunj
- Bageshwori Temple
This is one of the oldest and most famous Hindu temples in Nepalgunj, dedicated to Goddess Bageshwori. Devotees come to worship here throughout the year, and the temple plays an important role in the religious life of the region. - Nepalgunj Mini Zoo
A popular spot for families and nature lovers, the Nepalgunj Mini Zoo houses various species of animals and offers a peaceful environment for visitors to relax and explore the wildlife. - Rapti River and Wildlife Safari
Located a short drive from Nepalgunj, the Rapti River area offers a tranquil retreat with an option to take part in wildlife safaris. You can spot species like deer, rhinos, and birds along the riverbanks. - Tharu Village Visit
Experience the unique culture of the indigenous Tharu people by visiting one of the nearby Tharu villages. Learn about their traditions, customs, and lifestyle, and enjoy a homestay experience or local performances. - Kohalpur
A short drive from Nepalgunj, Kohalpur is a rapidly developing town known for its market areas and serves as a junction for road trips to different parts of the mid-western region of Nepal. - Baria Forest
This lush forest area near Nepalgunj is a great spot for nature walks and bird-watching, making it a peaceful escape from the bustling town.
Nepalgunj is more than just a transit hub—it’s a culturally rich town with historical and spiritual significance. Whether you’re stopping by for a night on your way to trekking in the Himalayas or exploring nearby sites, Nepalgunj offers plenty of charm and a window into the local way of life.
