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Home/Nepal/to India
Cross-border route

Nepal India

Driving across the border
Yes — you can drive from Nepal into India, and you should carry an International Driving Permit alongside your national licence. India 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 India India requirements

Last reviewed June 2026

Route at a glance
FromNepal
ToIndia
IDP in IndiaRequired
Accepted format1949 Geneva
Driving sideleft (no change)
Currency in IndiaINR
Nepal → India

Crossing the border

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

Driving rules in India

  • Drive on the left amid dense, unpredictable traffic.
  • Horn use is routine.
  • 0.03% alcohol limit.
  • Inter-state toll plazas common.

What to see when you arrive in India

  • the Taj Mahal in Agra
  • the forts and palaces of Jaipur
  • the ghats of Varanasi
  • the backwaters of Kerala
  • the beaches of Goa

Common questions

01
Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive from Nepal to India?
Yes — India requires foreign drivers to carry an IDP with their national licence. India recognises the 1949 Geneva format, which is what we issue.
02
Does the driving side change between Nepal and India?
No. Both Nepal and India 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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