Northeast Bound Journey - Traveling from Delhi to Assam via Nepal
Planning a solo motorbike road trip from Delhi to Assam via Nepal is an exciting endeavour, taking riders through diverse terrains, from the plains of North India to the foothills and mountains of Nepal, before entering the northeastern states of India.
In July 2018, one such rider embarked on this journey, with the initial itinerary including stops in Moradabad, Rudrapur, Mahendranagar (Nepal), Hetauda, Siliguri, Alipurduar, and Jorhat. The trip was planned as early as 2013 with Chief - HV Kumar.
The rider started their journey by reaching Attariya, a decently large town in Nepal, by 7:50 PM, having covered approximately 60 kms of Nepalese territory. The trip was kept simple, with the Enfield Thunderbird serviced and the rear tyre changed to a grippy Ralco.
The East-West Highway of Nepal, a single-lane road, was traversed, and the rider stopped for Chicken Korma and roti at a roadside dhaba by 10AM. A plate of warm chicken rice and a cold drink cost INR 50 in Attariya.
The weather on the trip was hot and humid, but the rider did not feel the heat on the highways. The author aimed to cover 400 kms on the first day, but kept the day relaxed due to border crossing formalities into Nepal.
On the return trip to Delhi, the rider planned to travel via Bihar. The author's planned road trip was from Delhi to Assam via Nepal, a plan that surprised many people he met along the way.
The route taken was via Raxaul/Sunauli (India-Nepal border), Kathmandu, Eastern Nepal, and Kakarbhitta (Nepal-India border), then into Assam. This journey took the rider through Nepal’s mid-hills, offering scenic views but also steep and occasionally rough roads.
For solo motorbike riders, it's essential to consider pace and duration, border crossings, road conditions, fuel and services, navigation and connectivity, mechanical readiness, safety, best time, local laws, and cultural sensitivity.
This route is ambitious, taking 8–10 days of riding, depending on pace and stops. Solo riders should plan for adequate rest days, especially after challenging Himalayan stretches. Border procedures can vary, so it's crucial to check the latest requirements before departure.
Indian highways are generally well-paved, but Nepalese roads can be narrow, steep, and occasionally unpaved, especially in the hills. Monsoon (June–September) brings landslides, while winter (December–February) can have snow at higher altitudes.
Fuel is widely available in India and major Nepalese towns, but it's advisable to carry spare fuel in remote areas. Accommodation ranges from budget guesthouses to hotels, but booking ahead in peak seasons is recommended.
Use offline maps (Google Maps, Maps.me) as mobile coverage can be patchy, especially in Nepal’s hills. SIM cards from both countries help with local connectivity.
The bike should be in top condition, with spare parts, tools, and puncture repair kits. Nepal’s terrain is demanding; consider an adventure or dual-sport motorcycle.
Ride defensively, especially on unfamiliar mountain roads. Inform someone of your route and check in regularly. Travel insurance covering medical and evacuation is strongly recommended.
For off-road enthusiasts, exploring Upper Mustang (Nepal) is a tantalizing but challenging option, but this route is not recommended for most solo travellers due to remoteness and logistical challenges.
The best time to embark on this journey is October–March, avoiding both monsoon rains and extreme winter cold. Nepal has strict traffic rules and occasionally restricts motorcycle entry for foreign-registered bikes, so it's essential to confirm current regulations before departure.
Respect local customs, especially in Nepal’s hill communities and Assam’s diverse ethnic regions.
The most practical and scenic route for a solo motorbike rider from Delhi to Assam via Nepal is via Raxaul/Sunauli, Kathmandu, and eastern Nepal to Kakarbhitta, then into Assam. This journey combines the thrill of Himalayan riding, cultural exploration, and the satisfaction of a cross-border adventure. Thorough preparation, flexibility, and respect for local conditions are essential for a safe and memorable trip.
The solo motorbike journey planned by the rider in July 2018, including stops in Moradabad, Rudrapur, Mahendranagar, Hetauda, Siliguri, Alipurduar, and Jorhat, can be categorized as an adventure-travel lifestyle. This trip, which takes riders through diverse terrains, such as the plains of North India, the foothills and mountains of Nepal, and the northeastern states of India, offers a unique blend of travel and adventure.
During the return trip, the rider intended to traverse through Bihar, which would add another exciting dimension to this cross-border adventure, further enriching the travel experiences and adding to the overall adventure-travel lifestyle.
