The Banepa–Bardibas Highway, also known as BP Highway or National Highway 13 (NH13), is a vital 158 km (98 mi) road in eastern Nepal that connects the Kathmandu Valley to the Eastern Terai region. Named after former Prime Minister Bishweshwar Prasad Koirala, the highway is the shortest link between Kathmandu and the Terai, facilitating trade, tourism, and daily commuting.
🛠️ Construction and Route
Construction began in November 1996 with assistance from the Government of Japan. The highway was completed and handed over to the Nepalese government on July 3, 2015, at a total cost of NPR 21.5 billion (approximately ¥26 billion).
The highway is divided into four sections:
Section I: Bardibas – Sindhuli Bazaar (37 km)
Section II: Sindhuli Bazaar – Khurkot (39 km)
Section III: Khurkot – Nepalthok (32 km)
Section IV: Nepalthok – Dhulikhel (50 km)
🌄 Scenic and Challenging Terrain
The highway winds through the foothills of the Himalayas, offering scenic views of lush forests, terraced fields, and rivers. However, the route is also known for its challenging terrain, including sharp bends, steep climbs, and narrow roads. This combination of beauty and danger has earned it a reputation as one of Nepal’s most scenic yet hazardous roads.
⚠️ Safety Concerns
The BP Highway has been associated with a high number of accidents due to factors such as speeding, challenging road conditions, and driver inexperience. In response to safety concerns, public vehicles with more than 18 seats and containers weighing over 10 tons have been banned from operating on the highway.
🚧 Current Conditions
As of June 2025, the BP Highway is undergoing extensive reconstruction following severe damage from floods and landslides in September 2024. Travelers should expect significant delays and challenging road conditions.
