Bharatpur Airport (BHR) is a small airport on the edge of Bharatpur city. Most travelers are heading either into town or onward to Sauraha for Chitwan National Park.
To Bharatpur city center
The city center is about 2 km from the airport. A taxi costs NPR 300-600 ($2-$5 USD). An auto-rickshaw is even cheaper at NPR 100-300. The ride takes 5-10 minutes. This is one of the cheapest airport-to-city rides you will find anywhere.
To Sauraha (Chitwan National Park)
Sauraha is about 20 km from the airport, and this is where most tourists are headed.
- Local taxi: NPR 1,500-3,000 ($10-$22 USD) for the vehicle
- Pre-booked transfer: NPR 2,500-4,000 ($18-$30 USD)
- Lodge pickup: Often included in your accommodation package, or NPR 1,500-3,500 if charged separately
To Narayanghat bus park
If you are connecting onward by bus (to Kathmandu, Pokhara, or Lumbini), you need to get to the main bus stand in Narayanghat, adjacent to Bharatpur. A taxi costs NPR 400-800 ($3-$6 USD).
Why lodge pickup is the best deal
Many Chitwan lodges include airport pickup in their package rate. If not included, the pickup fee is usually comparable to or only slightly more than a taxi — but with the advantage of a confirmed vehicle, a driver who knows exactly where your lodge is, and no negotiation.
When comparing prices, remember that some lodges offer a full arrival package: airport pickup, canoe ride across the river to Sauraha, and transfer to the lodge. This can be surprisingly affordable and a memorable start to your Chitwan visit.
Cash is king
No taxis or transfer vehicles at BHR accept cards. Bring Nepali rupees. If you are coming from Kathmandu, withdraw cash before your flight. There are no ATMs at the airport, though Bharatpur town has several.
USD is sometimes accepted by drivers at an unfavorable exchange rate. It is better to have local currency.