Flights to Nepal

Nepal’s main international gateway is Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu. This guide helps first-time visitors choose routes, understand airports, plan realistic connections, and avoid the most common arrival-day mistakes.

1) Where you’ll land

Most international flights land in Kathmandu. The arrival process is straightforward, but queues can be long during peak seasons. Plan your first day as a “soft landing”: settle in, exchange some cash, get a SIM/eSIM, and sleep early.

Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), Kathmandu

KTM is Nepal’s primary international airport. It’s close to Thamel (popular tourist hub) and the historic Kathmandu Valley sites. Expect busy immigration lines at peak hours and occasional congestion on city roads.

  • Arrival tip: carry a pen, passport photo (if needed), and small USD bills.
  • First night: stay in Kathmandu to recover and handle permits/gear planning.
  • Traffic reality: 6–8 km can still take 30–60 minutes.

Other entry points (context for planning)

Some travelers also enter via land borders (India–Nepal crossings). For flights, the common pattern is: arrive Kathmandu → rest → transfer to Pokhara or start your trek.

First-timer recommendation: avoid stacking tight connections on arrival day. If you plan to fly domestic the next day, sleep in Kathmandu and fly in the morning.

2) Popular routes to Nepal (how people usually connect)

Nepal has limited direct long-haul options, so many travelers connect through regional hubs. Your best route depends on price, baggage rules, layover time, and your tolerance for multiple legs.

Connection style Best for What to watch
1-stop via a major hub Most travelers (balanced time + cost) Layover length, baggage re-check rules, late-night arrivals
2-stops (cheapest) Budget-focused travelers Higher risk of missed connections, fatigue, strict baggage limits
Arrive early daytime First-timers who want a smooth first day Often slightly pricier, but easier logistics

Layover strategy (stress-free)

  • Prefer 2–4 hours for international connections if possible
  • If booking separate tickets, keep 5–8 hours+ buffer
  • Check baggage rules: some routes require re-check at the hub

Arrival day checklist

  • Small cash exchange + ATM backup
  • SIM/eSIM for maps + contact
  • Hotel pickup or trusted taxi

Common first-timer mistakes

  • Landing late night then rushing into a trek next morning
  • Underestimating road transfer times to Pokhara
  • Skipping rest → altitude + fatigue hits harder

3) Domestic flights (Pokhara, Lukla, Bharatpur)

Domestic flights can save time but are sensitive to weather, especially in mountain regions. Use them as a convenience tool — not as a tight schedule you must “win.”

What to expect

  • Weather delays happen — build buffer days for treks
  • Weight limits can be strict (hand + checked)
  • Morning flights are often more reliable than late afternoon
Golden rule: If your trek requires a mountain flight (like Lukla region), add at least 1–2 buffer days before any international departure.

Choosing between flight vs road

For Kathmandu ↔ Pokhara, flights are fast; tourist buses are comfortable; private cars add flexibility. Pick based on your budget, your time, and whether you get motion sickness on winding roads.

  • Flight: fastest, but weather-sensitive
  • Tourist bus: cheaper, scenic, longer
  • Private car: comfort + stops, mid/high cost