The Prithvi Highway is one of Nepal’s busiest highways, connecting Kathmandu with Pokhara and several major destinations across western Nepal. Thousands of passengers, tourists and commercial vehicles travel along this route daily. However, landslides, river erosion, road subsidence and ongoing construction work have repeatedly disrupted traffic, particularly during the monsoon season.
As of October 31, 2026, the latest confirmed reports show that traffic has resumed at the previously damaged Galaundi section in Dhading following emergency repairs. The Krishnabhir section had also reopened after the construction of a temporary track in September. However, landslides and road damage reported at other locations highlight the need to check the latest traffic information before travelling.
This guide covers the latest reported Prithvi Highway road conditions, affected sections, Kathmandu–Pokhara travel information and useful precautions for travellers.
Latest Prithvi Highway Road Condition (October 2026)
The latest confirmed major disruption occurred at Galaundi in Gajuri Rural Municipality-5, Dhading, where the road subsided following erosion by the Trishuli River.
On October 9, 2026, traffic was completely halted after approximately 100 metres of road developed cracks and a section of around 20 metres sank, creating a risk of further damage and accidents.
Authorities constructed a temporary track along the hillside to restore vehicle movement. Two-way traffic resumed on October 11, although further repair work was required. The Galaundi section was temporarily closed again overnight on October 12 for additional repairs.
According to a Nepal Police update reported on October 13, the section reopened at 6:10 AM following the completion of overnight repair work.
Latest confirmed update: Two-way traffic resumed at Galaundi following emergency repairs. However, this does not confirm unrestricted traffic movement across every section of the Kathmandu–Pokhara highway. Travellers should check the latest announcements before departure.
Major Sections Affected by Recent Road Damage
Several sections of the Prithvi Highway have experienced landslides, flooding and road damage during recent months. The following locations have featured in major disruption reports.
Galaundi, Dhading
Galaundi experienced road subsidence after the Trishuli River eroded the highway’s foundation. The damage forced authorities to suspend traffic and construct a temporary road along the hillside. Although two-way traffic resumed following emergency repairs in October, travellers should exercise caution around the affected section.
Krishnabhir, Dhading
Krishnabhir experienced major damage after flooding and river erosion washed away a section of the highway on August 30, 2026. The disruption blocked the highway for 18 days.
To restore connectivity, authorities constructed a temporary 270-metre track above the damaged section. Two-way traffic resumed on September 17. However, further landslide incidents were reported along nearby sections later in September.
Chalise and Bangemod, Dhading
Heavy rainfall triggered landslides at Chalise and Bangemod in Gajuri Rural Municipality, disrupting vehicle movement. On September 28, authorities were carrying out debris-clearance operations at these locations.
These incidents demonstrate how rainfall, unstable slopes and river erosion can affect different sections of the Prithvi Highway.
Is the Prithvi Highway Open for Kathmandu to Pokhara Travel?
The Prithvi Highway has reopened at the major damaged sections of Galaundi and Krishnabhir following emergency repairs. However, the reopening of individual sections should not be treated as confirmation that the entire route is free from restrictions.
The Kathmandu–Pokhara route passes through several important settlements and road sections, including:
- Naubise
- Galchhi
- Malekhu
- Galaundi
- Mugling
- Damauli
- Dumre
- Pokhara
Traffic congestion, road maintenance, temporary restrictions and unexpected landslides can affect travel time along this route. Therefore, passengers travelling between Kathmandu and Pokhara should check traffic announcements before starting their journey.
For the most reliable information, follow Nepal Traffic Police, the Department of Roads and the District Administration Office of Dhading.
Why Does the Prithvi Highway Experience Frequent Traffic Disruptions?
The Prithvi Highway passes through hilly terrain and follows sections of the Trishuli River, making some areas vulnerable to natural hazards and road damage.
The main reasons for repeated disruptions include:
- River erosion: Strong river currents can weaken the highway foundation and wash away sections of the road, as seen at Krishnabhir and Galaundi.
- Landslides: Heavy rainfall can trigger landslides, depositing mud, rocks and debris across the highway.
- Road subsidence: Unstable soil foundations and erosion can cause road sections to sink, crack or collapse.
- Heavy traffic: A high volume of buses, private vehicles, trucks and commercial transportation increases congestion, particularly when traffic is restricted to one lane.
- Ongoing construction: Road expansion, maintenance and emergency repair work can temporarily slow down vehicle movement.
These conditions make regular road maintenance and slope protection important for keeping the highway operational.
Travel Tips Before Taking the Prithvi Highway
Whether you are travelling from Kathmandu to Pokhara or returning from Pokhara to Kathmandu, a little preparation can help avoid unnecessary delays.
Here are some useful precautions:
- Check the latest road updates: Follow Nepal Traffic Police and local administration announcements before departure.
- Allow extra travel time: Congestion, road maintenance and temporary restrictions can affect your arrival time.
- Check the weather forecast: Heavy rainfall can increase the risk of landslides and river erosion.
- Be careful around damaged sections: Reduce speed and follow instructions from traffic personnel.
- Avoid unnecessary night travel: Visibility can be poor around landslide-prone and recently repaired sections.
- Follow official diversions: If authorities announce an alternative route, follow their instructions rather than choosing an unfamiliar road.
Are There Alternative Routes from Kathmandu to Pokhara?
The Prithvi Highway is the main road connection between Kathmandu and Pokhara. When sections become blocked, traffic authorities may arrange diversions depending on the location and severity of the disruption.
The Tribhuvan Highway and Kanti Highway connect different parts of central Nepal, but they should not automatically be considered direct alternatives to the Kathmandu–Pokhara route.
Before choosing another route, check official traffic announcements and confirm whether the suggested diversion is suitable for your vehicle. Taking an unfamiliar route without checking its condition can result in additional travel time and difficulties.
What to Expect on the Prithvi Highway in the Coming Days?
Although emergency repairs have restored traffic movement at several damaged locations, the Prithvi Highway still requires regular monitoring and maintenance.
Temporary tracks provide immediate solutions when existing road sections become unusable. However, long-term road stability depends on proper drainage, slope protection, retaining structures and measures to prevent river erosion.
Authorities have also examined longer-term solutions for the damaged Krishnabhir section, including a possible tunnel or bypass structure. These options have been discussed as potential solutions rather than completed infrastructure projects.
Travellers should continue checking road conditions before departure, particularly when rainfall or maintenance work may affect the highway.
Need a Vehicle for Your Kathmandu–Pokhara Trip?
Travelling between Kathmandu and Pokhara requires some planning, especially when road conditions, traffic congestion, and ongoing maintenance can affect travel time. If you are planning either route, Flyover Car Rental can help arrange transportation according to your travel needs.
Whether you need a vehicle from Kathmandu to Pokhara or Pokhara to Kathmandu, you can contact the team for vehicle arrangements and further information about Prithvi Highway conditions before departure.
For enquiries and bookings, contact Flyover Car Rental at +977-9815178051, email flyovercarrental@gmail.com, or visit flyovercarrental.com. The team can help you plan your transportation and make your journey to your destination more convenient.
Conclusion
The Prithvi Highway remains an important transportation link between Kathmandu and Pokhara. Recent disruptions at Galaundi, Krishnabhir, and other sections of Dhading highlight the challenges of maintaining the highway during periods of heavy rainfall, river erosion, and landslides.
Although emergency repairs have restored traffic at major damaged locations, road conditions can change depending on weather and ongoing maintenance. Checking the latest traffic information, allowing additional travel time and arranging suitable transportation can help make your journey more manageable.
Whether you are travelling for business, tourism or a family visit, staying informed about road conditions is essential before taking the Kathmandu–Pokhara route.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the Prithvi Highway open today?
The latest confirmed reports available for this update show that traffic resumed at Galaundi following repairs on October 13, 2026. Krishnabhir had also reopened to two-way traffic in September. However, these reports do not establish the live condition of every section today. Check Nepal Traffic Police announcements before travelling.
2. Is the Kathmandu to Pokhara road open?
The major damaged sections at Galaundi and Krishnabhir have reopened following emergency repairs. However, temporary restrictions, landslides and road maintenance can affect other sections. Check the latest traffic information before departure.
3. Which sections of the Prithvi Highway were recently damaged?
Major disruptions were reported at Galaundi, Krishnabhir, Chalise and Bangemod in Dhading due to river erosion, road subsidence and landslides.
4. Why was the Prithvi Highway closed in October 2026?
The highway was temporarily closed on October 9 after river erosion caused a section of the road to subside at Galaundi in Dhading. Authorities constructed a temporary track, restoring two-way traffic on October 11. Further overnight repairs were carried out on October 12.
5. How long does it take to travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara by road?
Travel time depends on traffic, weather, road conditions and maintenance work. Travellers should allow additional time rather than relying on a fixed journey duration, particularly when road disruptions are reported.
6. Is it safe to travel on the Prithvi Highway?
Travel is possible following the reopening of the affected sections, but some areas remain vulnerable to landslides, erosion and road damage. Check official traffic announcements and weather conditions before departure.
7. Where can I get Prithvi Highway road-condition updates?
You can follow Nepal Traffic Police, the Department of Roads and local administration announcements for road-condition updates. You can also contact Flyover Car Rental for travel-related road-condition information and vehicle arrangements.
8. Can I rent a vehicle from Kathmandu to Pokhara?
Yes. Flyover Car Rental can assist with vehicle arrangements for both Kathmandu–Pokhara and Pokhara–Kathmandu trips. For enquiries, call +977-9815178051 or visit flyovercarrental.com.
