Bhairahawa is a popular gateway to Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha and one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage sites in Nepal. Lively cafes and restaurants make Bhairahawa a great place to relax, unwind and enjoy life in an authentic Nepalese city. Venture out the city to discover charming rural villages and world-class birdwatching sites.
Things to do in Siddharthanagar
Bhairahawa offers easy access to Lumbini, where you can explore a collection of temples, monasteries and stupas and learn about the birthplace of Buddha. Wander around the centuries-old ruins and admire colourful prayer flags fluttering in the breeze.
There are plenty of hidden gems to discover around Bhairahawa, including the Gangoliya Ostrich Farm a 30-minute drive from the city centre. Set on more than three hectares, the farm is home to hundreds of the enormous flightless birds. The adjoining restaurant serves delicious “momo” dumplings and “sekuwa” grilled skewers made from local ostrich.
In addition to its close proximity to the Indian border, Bhairahawa offers an excellent selection of shops and transport connections. This makes the city popular with travellers looking for a peaceful place to relax before heading off on jungle treks, mountain hikes and river rafting expeditions.
In the city centre, you’ll see plenty of local operators offering guided treks to rural villages. You can hike through the Nepalese countryside and exchange smiles with friendly locals. The floodplains and wetlands surrounding Bhairahawa are home to rare bird species such as the Sarus crane.
Getting around Siddharthanagar
Auto-rickshaws are the fastest and most affordable way to get around Bhairahawa, while taxis are a comfortable alternative. Gautam Buddha International Airport, also known as Bhairahawa Airport, is a 10-minute drive from the city centre. Flights between Bhairahawa and Kathmandu take around 30 minutes, while local buses to Kathmandu take between seven to 10 hours.