Nepal, celebrated for its stunning Himalayan ranges and cultural richness, has an extensive network of airports that play a crucial role in connecting its rugged terrains. With both international and domestic airports, Nepal ensures convenient travel for tourists and residents.
Let’s take a closer look at Nepal's key airports and the unique features and facilities provided to travellers.
International Airports in Nepal
International airports in Nepal are the gateways to this enchanting land, connecting it to global destinations. These airports cater to the needs of tourists, pilgrims, and business travellers.
1. Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), Kathmandu Valley
Tribhuvan International Airport, located 5.56 km east of Kathmandu, is Nepal's busiest and most significant airport. It has been operational since 1955 and serves as a gateway for international tourists.
- Address: Ring Rd, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
- ICAO Code: VNKT
- IATA Code: KTM
- Category: International
- Terminals: Three terminals —
- International flights terminal
- Domestic flights terminal
- VIPs and delegates’ terminal
- Services and Amenities Available:
- Hotel reservation centre
- Foreign Currency Exchange
- Pre-paid Taxi Service
- Cafeteria and Restaurants
- Press Conference Room
- Lounge for Commercially Important Persons (CIPs)
- Restrooms for senior citizens
- Childcare room
- Medical facilities
- Trolley service
- Significance: As the main international hub, TIA contributes heavily to Nepal's economy by supporting tourism, trade, and cultural exchanges.
2. Gautam Buddha International Airport (BWA), Lumbini
Located in Siddharthanagar, Gautam Buddha International Airport is Nepal's second international airport. Named after Lord Buddha, this airport is a key gateway for pilgrims and tourists visiting Lumbini, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Buddha's birthplace.
- Address: Siddharthanagar, Lumbini Province, Nepal
- ICAO Code: VNBW
- IATA Code: BWA
- Category: International
- Terminals: Modernised with facilities for both domestic and international flights.
- Services and Amenities Available:
- Spacious terminal buildings
- Immigration and customs services
- Prayer and meditation areas
- Food courts and cafes
- Taxi and shuttle services
- VIP Lounge
- Significance: Enhancing religious tourism, this airport connects Lumbini to global destinations, fostering Nepal’s cultural heritage.
3. Pokhara International Airport (PKR), Pokhara
Situated in Chhine Danda, Pokhara International Airport is a major air hub for the tourism industry in western Nepal. Opened in 2022, it enhances access to the popular tourist destination of Pokhara, facilitating the growth of tourism, trade, and connectivity with both domestic and international flights.
- Address: 52Q7+8JQ International Airport, Runway, Pokhara 33700, Nepal
- ICAO Code: VNPK
- IATA Code: PKR
- Category: International
- Terminals: Separate facilities for domestic and international flights
- Services and Amenities Available:
- Advanced navigation and landing systems
- Cafeteria and restrooms
- Shuttle and parking facilities
- Information desks for tourists
- Significance: Its proximity to trekking hubs like Annapurna Circuit makes it a vital airport for adventure seekers.
Domestic Airports in Nepal
Nepal’s domestic airports are essential for connecting the country’s remote and mountainous regions. These airports serve as lifelines for locals and visitors travelling to hard-to-reach destinations.
1. Lukla Airport (Tenzing-Hillary Airport), Lukla
Situated in Lukla, Tenzing-Hillary Airport is one of the most famous airports in Nepal, primarily serving trekkers heading to the Everest region. Known for its challenging and short runway, it’s considered one of the most difficult-to-navigate airports in the world.
- Address: Lukla - Everest Base Camp Trekking Route 30, Chaunrikharka 56000, Nepal
- ICAO Code: VNLK
- IATA Code: LUA
- Category: Domestic
- Terminals: Single terminal for domestic flights
- Services and Amenities Available:
- Basic waiting areas
- Lounges
- Shower room
- Cafes and restaurants
- Local guide and porter services
- Helicopter services
- Significance: Crucial for trekkers heading to Everest Base Camp.
2. Bharatpur Airport (BHR), Chitwan
Located in Chitwan District, Bharatpur Airport is strategically important for both tourism and agriculture. It provides easy access to Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and links the region to other parts of Nepal, promoting tourism and economic growth in the surrounding area.
- Address: Bharatpur 44200, Chitwan District, Nepal
- ICAO Code: VNBP
- IATA Code: BHR
- Category: Domestic
- Terminals: Single terminal
- Services and Amenities Available:
- Basic seating and restroom facilities
- Restaurants
- Transport links to the National Park
- Significance: Connects visitors to Nepal’s premier wildlife sanctuary
3. Biratnagar Airport (BIR), Morang District
Located in the Morang District, Biratnagar Airport serves as an important regional hub in eastern Nepal. Its proximity to the Indian border boosts cross-border trade and travel. The airport plays a significant role in connecting the region to other parts of Nepal and supports the economic activities of the area.
- Address: Biratnagar 56613, Nepal
- ICAO Code: VNVT
- IATA Code: BIR
- Category: Domestic
- Terminals: Single terminal for domestic operations
- Services and Amenities Available:
- Cargo handling services
- Passenger waiting lounges
- Child care room
- Restaurants and cafe
- Significance: Facilitates economic growth in Nepal’s eastern regions.
4. Ramechhap Airport (RHP), Ramechhap
An alternative for flights to Lukla, this airport is especially busy during trekking seasons. It provides crucial domestic flights to the Everest region and is vital for both tourism and local connectivity.
- Address: Manthali 45400, Ramechhap District, Nepal
- ICAO Code: VNRC
- IATA Code: RHP
- Category: Domestic
- Terminals: Basic single terminal
- Services and Amenities Available:
- Shuttle services to Lukla flights
- Seating areas
- Significance: Relieves pressure on TIA during peak trekking months
5. Nepalgunj Airport (KEP), Banke District
Positioned in Banke District, Nepalgunj Airport facilitates domestic and regional flights, supporting the southwestern region of Nepal. It serves as a critical link for trade, agriculture, and tourism, especially benefiting travellers heading to nearby destinations like Bardiya National Park and the surrounding areas.
- Address: 4M28+CWW, H 12, Manikapur 21900, Nepal
- ICAO Code: VNNG
- IATA Code: KEP
- Category: Domestic
- Terminals: Single terminal
- Services and Amenities Available:
- Helicopter charters
- Basic passenger amenities
- Significance: Gateway to remote areas like Dolpa and Jumla
6. Pokhara Domestic Airport (PKR)
Pokhara Domestic Airport is one of the busiest airports in Nepal, located in the picturesque city of Pokhara, a major tourist destination. It is a key gateway for travellers heading to the Annapurna and other trekking regions in Nepal.
- Address: 5XXH+Q93, Pokhara 33700, Nepal
- IATA Code: PKR
- ICAO Code: VNPK
- Category: Domestic
- Terminals: Single terminal for domestic flights.
- Services and Amenities Available:
- Basic passenger lounges
- Cafeteria and food stalls
- Shuttle services to nearby hotels
- Information desks for tourists
- Significance:
- Serves as the primary gateway to trekking destinations like the Annapurna Circuit and other attractions in the Gandaki region.
- Plays a critical role in connecting Kathmandu to Nepal's western regions.
7. Bajhang Airport (BJH), Bajhang District
Located in the far western region of Nepal, Bajhang Airport serves the Bajhang District and surrounding areas. It plays a crucial role in connecting this remote area to other parts of Nepal, promoting regional development and providing accessibility for both locals and tourists.
- Address: G5QM+PHM, Jayaprithvi 10500, Nepal
- ICAO Code: VNBG
- IATA Code: BJH
- Category: Domestic
- Terminals: Single basic terminal
- Services and Amenities Available:
- Minimal amenities focused on essential operations
- Waiting areas and baggage handling
- Helicopter services for emergency evacuations
- Significance:
- Facilitates travel and supplies to the remote Bajhang District.
- Supports local economic and social development by connecting inaccessible areas to the rest of Nepal.
8. Simara Airport (SIF), Jitpursimara
Simara Airport, located in Jitpursimara, is one of Nepal's key domestic airports, primarily serving the Terai region. Simara Airport is crucial for linking the southern plains with the rest of Nepal, enabling smoother travel and commerce.
- Address: Airport Rd 44412, Gadhimai 44400, Nepal
- IATA Code: SIF
- ICAO Code: VNSI
- Category: Domestic
- Terminals: This airport has 4 terminals. One handles all departure flights, and one caters to arriving flights. The third terminal serves operational purposes, while the fourth is used to rescue passengers in emergencies.
- Services and Amenities Available:
- Passenger waiting area
- Basic refreshment kiosks
- Ground transport services
- Helicopter services for emergencies
- Significance:
- Facilitates connectivity between the Terai region and Kathmandu
- Aids in transporting goods and passengers, supporting local industries and agriculture
Conclusion
Nepal’s network of international and domestic airports makes it easy for travellers to explore the diverse landscapes and cultural treasures of this Himalayan nation. Whether you’re landing at international airports in Nepal like TIA or venturing into remote areas through domestic airports in Nepal, the connectivity ensures smooth travel experiences.
For a seamless travel experience, don’t forget to secure travel insurance online, which protects you from unexpected events like flight delays, cancellations, or medical emergencies. Together, a well-planned itinerary and reliable insurance make exploring Nepal’s diverse destinations safe and enjoyable. From Kathmandu to Lukla, these airports pave the way for your next adventure in this beautiful Himalayan nation!
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