Birgunj
In Nepali: वीरगंज
Birgunj handles more of Nepal's trade than any other city: the Raxaul border crossing, the dry port and the railway link bring a constant flow of trucks. The city was named after Prime Minister Bir Shumsher, and its clock tower (Ghantaghar) is its best-known landmark.
Gahawa Mai temple is the city's favourite shrine, and the Chhath and Holi celebrations are exuberant. Birgunj is also the main base for visiting Parsa National Park and the Gadhimai temple.
What to see and do
See the Ghantaghar clock tower, visit the Gahawa Mai temple and its pond, and explore the markets along Main Road. The city is known for Bhojpuri culture and street food. Day trips lead to Parsa National Park, the Gadhimai temple and the Simraungadh ruins.
Good to know
Birgunj is busy and dusty; stay in the city centre for convenience. Simara airport, about 30 minutes north, has flights to Kathmandu. The Raxaul border crossing is open for travellers to India.
Quick answers
- Where is Birgunj?
- Birgunj is in Parsa district, Madhesh Province, in the Terai belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Birgunj?
- About 90 m (295 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Birgunj?
- For a 3-day trip from Kathmandu, about NPR 6,000 (≈ US$44) per person on a budget, or NPR 17,500 (≈ US$130) with standard hotels and private transport — for two foreign visitors sharing, including transport, stay, food. Nepali visitors on a budget: about NPR 6,000 per person. These are estimates; adjust them in the trip planner.
- How many days do I need for Birgunj?
- Plan 1 night there; with travel from Kathmandu and back, about 3 days in all.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Birgunj?
- No special permit or ticket is normally needed.
- When is the best time to visit Birgunj?
- October–March
- How do I get to Birgunj?
- Flights to Simara; about 5 hours by road from Kathmandu. It is about 92 km (straight line) from Kathmandu.
- What is Birgunj called in Nepali?
- वीरगंज
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