Admin UserGetting to Nepal is easier than ever, with direct and one-stop flights from Asia, the Middle East and Europe into Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu. This guide explains the main flight routes, how to find good fares, what to expect on arrival, how to get from the airport to your hotel, overland options and tips for a smooth first day.
Main routes into Nepal
- From Asia. Direct flights run from Delhi, Dubai, Doha, Istanbul, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore and Hong Kong, among others.
- From Europe. Most travellers connect via the Gulf (Doha, Dubai, Abu Dhabi), Istanbul or Delhi.
- From North America. Typically via Europe or the Gulf.
- From Australia and New Zealand. Via Southeast Asia or the Gulf.
Fares are cheapest in the off-season and rise sharply for October and April, so book early if you plan to travel then.
When to book
For peak months (October, November and April), book three to five months ahead. For the monsoon or winter, a month or two is usually enough. Compare multiple booking sites and airlines, and consider flexible tickets if you plan a trek, since delays and weather can alter your return date.
Arriving at Kathmandu airport
- Visa. Get your visa on arrival; see the visa guide.
- Immigration and baggage claim. Queues can be long at peak times.
- Customs and exit. Pre-arranged pickups wait outside arrivals.
Have cash ready for the visa fee, complete forms online beforehand and keep your documents handy. Arrange a pickup so you are not negotiating after a long flight.
Getting from the airport to your hotel
Taxis and hotel pickups are widely available. The ride to Thamel takes 20–40 minutes depending on traffic. Prepaid taxi counters give a fixed rate, and ride-hailing apps work in Kathmandu. Our team can arrange private pickups. Keep small notes for tips, and use only official or pre-booked transport.
Overland options
Common border crossings include Sunauli/Belahiya (near Lumbini), Raxaul/Birgunj and Kakarbhitta in the east. Entry via the Kodari/Rasuwagadhi crossing with China has variable access and is usually organised through a tour operator. Check the latest status before planning. Overland routes can be long and unpredictable, so allow extra time.
Domestic flights from Kathmandu
From Kathmandu you can fly to Pokhara, Lukla, Bharatpur (Chitwan), Nepalgunj, Jomsom and more. Weather delays are common, especially in the monsoon and for mountain airports. Read our Lukla flight guide before booking Everest trips.
Layovers and jet lag
Long-haul trips usually include a layover in the Gulf, Istanbul or Delhi. Choose layovers of two to four hours to avoid missing connections, or longer if you want to rest. After landing, adjust to local time by getting daylight, staying hydrated and keeping your first day light. Kathmandu is at 1,400 m, so you may feel a little tired at first.
Arrival-day tips
- Arrive a day before treks begin.
- Keep valuables, medication and a change of clothes in carry-on luggage.
- Buy a SIM card at the airport after immigration.
- Exchange a small amount of cash for the first day.
- Bring a printed copy of your hotel booking and pickup details.
Baggage and customs
Airlines allow different baggage weights, and domestic flights have lower limits, often 15 kg. Pack trekking gear in a duffel and keep a separate small bag for city clothes. Customs rules limit certain items, so check current guidance. Do not carry drones without checking permission, and avoid antiques that may need export permits.
Health and safety on arrival
Drink bottled water, eat freshly cooked food and take it easy on day one. Air quality in Kathmandu can be poor in dry months, so consider a mask. See the CDC's Nepal page and our safety guide.
Typical journeys from major regions
| Starting point | Typical routing | Approximate journey time |
|---|---|---|
| UK and Western Europe | Via Doha, Dubai, Abu Dhabi or Istanbul | 13–18 hours |
| United States and Canada | Via Europe or the Gulf | 20–30 hours |
| Australia | Via Southeast Asia or the Gulf | 14–20 hours |
| India | Direct from Delhi and other cities | 1.5–3 hours |
| Southeast Asia | Direct or via a regional hub | 3–5 hours |
Times depend on connections and are only rough guides. Flexible layovers can make a long journey more comfortable.
Other international airports
Pokhara International Airport and Gautam Buddha International Airport (Bhairahawa, near Lumbini) opened in recent years and handle some international flights, though routes change. Check current schedules before planning to skip Kathmandu, and remember that most international traffic still uses Tribhuvan International Airport.
Getting through the visa queue faster
Pre-register online, print your confirmation, carry exact cash in USD, fill in forms before landing and head straight to the kiosks. Avoid arriving at peak times, such as the evening arrival banks, if you can choose. A calm, organised approach and a pen in your pocket save time.
Airport scams to avoid
Use official taxi counters or pre-arranged pickups. Ignore people who say your hotel is closed, offer unrequested help with bags or claim to be official guides. Agree prices before getting into a vehicle, and ignore anyone who offers to exchange money on the street.
Departing from Kathmandu
Arrive at least three hours before an international flight, as security checks and queues can be long. Keep a few hundred rupees for airport fees and snacks, and note that rupees may not be exchanged easily once you leave. Reconfirm your flight and check baggage allowances, especially if you are carrying trekking gear.
Choosing between a direct flight and a connection
Direct flights from Delhi, Doha, Dubai and a few Asian hubs save time but can be pricier and less flexible. One-stop itineraries via the Gulf or Istanbul are often cheaper and offer more departure times. If you choose a connection, make sure your layover is long enough for visa and baggage rules, and consider travel insurance that covers missed connections.
Next steps
Use the first-timer tips and itineraries to plan your trip. Airport operations are described by the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal.
FAQ
Which airport do I fly into?
Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu.
Are there direct flights from Europe?
Typically no; most routes connect via the Gulf or Istanbul.
Can I enter Nepal overland?
Yes, via India and, at times, China.
How early should I arrive for departures?
At least three hours before international flights.
Do I need a visa before I fly?
Most nationalities can get a visa on arrival, but pre-registering online saves time.
