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Home/India/to Nepal
Cross-border route

India Nepal

Driving across the border
Yes — you can drive from India into Nepal, and you should carry an International Driving Permit alongside your national licence. Nepal expects foreign drivers to hold an IDP, in the 1949 Geneva format. Both countries drive on the left, so there is no change of driving side at the border. The Sunauli–Belahiya crossing is the main road route toward Kathmandu.
Get my permit for Nepal Nepal requirements

Last reviewed June 2026

Route at a glance
FromIndia
ToNepal
IDP in NepalRequired
Accepted format1949 Geneva
Driving sideleft (no change)
Currency in NepalNPR
India → Nepal

Crossing the border

The Sunauli–Belahiya crossing is the main road route toward Kathmandu.

Driving rules in Nepal

  • Drive on the left.
  • Steep, narrow mountain roads.
  • Zero-tolerance alcohol policy.
  • Carry passport, IDP and home licence.

What to see when you arrive in Nepal

  • Mount Everest and the Khumbu region
  • the temples of Kathmandu's Durbar Square
  • the Annapurna trekking circuit
  • the lakeside town of Pokhara
  • the stupa of Boudhanath

Common questions

01
Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive from India to Nepal?
Yes — Nepal requires foreign drivers to carry an IDP with their national licence. Nepal recognises the 1949 Geneva format, which is what we issue.
02
Does the driving side change between India and Nepal?
No. Both India and Nepal drive on the left.
03
How quickly can I get an IDP for this trip?
International Driver Licence issues your digital IDP in as fast as 8 minutes, so you can have it ready before you set off.
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