Airports in Nepal

Are you trekking in Nepal/ travelling in Nepal and wants to know about Airports in Nepal or willing to know about major airports in Nepal? If yes then, let’s read this article. It will really help you figure out the major airports in Nepal which are in operation right now. The airports of Nepal will connect to major trekking trails like Everest Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Upper Mustang Trek and Kanchenjungha Base Camp Trek.

Nepal has 3 international and 51 domestic airports. However, all airports are not in operation. Out of 51, only 32 airports are in operation right now. Rests of them are under construction or sometimes they are disturbed due to weather condition like snowfall or heavy rainfall.

The major three international airports in Nepal are: Tribhuwan International Airport, Kathmandu , Gautam Buddha International Airport, Bhairahawa and Pokhara International Airport, Pokhara. The oldest and the busiest airport or international airport in Nepal is Tribhuvan International Airport. These two airports: Bhairahawa International Airport and Pokhara International Airport are newer to the passengers since they are newly launched officially. Tribhuvan International Airport paves the way to Lukla which can take you to Everest Base Camp Trek and Gokyo Lake Trek and Pokhara Airport lets you do Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Mardi Himal Trek, Ghorepani-Poonhill Trek, Upper Mustang Trek etc.

Top International Airports in Nepal

1. Tribhuwan International Airport, Kathmandu

2. Gautam Buddha International Airport, Bhairahawa

3. Pokhara International Airport, Pokhara

Top Domestic Airports in Nepal

1. Tenzing Hillary (Lukla) Airport, Solukhumbu

2. Pokhara Airport, Pokhara

3. Biratnagar Airport, Biratnagar

4. Nepalgunj Airport, Nepalgunj

5. Simara Airport, Simara

6. Bharatpur Airport, Bharatpur

7. Dhangadhi Airport, Dhangadhi

8. Janakpur Airport, Janakpur

9. Tumlingtar Airport, Tumlingtar

10. Phaplu Airport, Solukhumbu

11. Chandragadhi Airport, Jhapa

12. Lamidanda Airport, Khotang

13. Jomsom Airport, Mustang

Tribhuvan International Airport/ Kathmandu Airport

Among various airports in Nepal, the most prominent one is Tribhuvan International Airport. It is located in the capital city, Kathmandu, and serves as the primary international gateway into Nepal. The Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), situated 5.56 km east of Kathmandu city is in the heart of the Kathmandu Valley. TIA is amid the confluence of three ancient cities: Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and Patan, rich in their art and culture not only gifted for their temples and pagoda. Hence, TIA not only has flourished as the main hub for every expanding business of the country and has operated to various domestic and international airlines. Actually, Everest Base Camp Trek and all Everest Region Trekking begins from Tribhuvan International Airport.

Category Information

Airport Name: Tribhuvan International Airport IATA Code: KTM ICAO Code: VNKT Location: Kathmandu, Nepal Co-ordinates: Latitude 27.6984°N, Longitude 85.3592°E Elevation :1338 meters ( 4338 ft) Runway: 1 Runway Length :3,350 meters( 10330ft) Runway Direction: 02/20 Terminals: 2 ( Terminal 1 -Domestic and Terminal 2- International) Airlines: It serves as a hub for many airlines, including Nepal Airlines, Air India, Qatar Airways and etc. Connections: It Provides connections to various international destinations, including India, China, the Middle East, Southeast countries and Europe. Facilities :Various amenities such as Duty-free shops, restaurants, lounges, ATMs, currency exchange, baggage, Info desk, etc. Website https://www.tiairport.com.np. Kathmandu Airport Facilities

Airport Name: Tribhuvan International Airport

IATA Code: KTM

ICAO Code: VNKT

Location: Kathmandu,Nepal

Co-ordinates: Latitude 27.6984°N, Longitude 85.3592°E

Elevation: 1338 meters ( 4338 ft)

Runway: 1

Runway Length: 3,350 meters( 10330ft)

Runway Direction: 02/20

Terminals: 2 ( Terminal 1 -Domestic and Terminal 2- International)

Airlines: It serves as a hub for many airlines, including Nepal Airlines, Air India, Qatar Airways and etc.

Connections: It Provides connections to various international destinations, including India, China, the Middle East, Southeast countries and Europe.

Facilities: Various amenities such as Duty-free shops, restaurants, lounges, ATMs, currency exchange, baggage, Info desk, etc.

Website www.tiairport.com.np.

Kathmandu Airport Facilities

After the airport renovation, it has several amenities like

Nepal Tourism Board Information Counter Press Rooms Cargo Facilities Trolley Services SIM Cards Services Police Help Desk Banking Facilities Post Office Restaurants and Cafeteria Medical Services Foreign money Exchange Shopping centers Parking lots for vehicles in front of both domestic and international terminals. System of Nepal Airport The system of Nepal's airports involves the operation, management, and infrastructure of various airports across the country. Here are some key aspects of the airport system in Nepal:

Nepal Tourism Board Information Counter

Press Rooms

Cargo Facilities

Trolley Services

SIM Cards Services

Police Help Desk

Banking Facilities

Post Office

Restaurants and Cafeteria

Medical Services

Foreign money Exchange

Shopping centers

Parking lots for vehicles in front of both domestic and international terminals.

System of Nepal Airport

The system of Nepal's airports involves the operation, management, and infrastructure of various airports across the country. Here are some key aspects of the airport system in Nepal:

Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN): CAAN is the regulatory body responsible for overseeing civil aviation activities in Nepal. It formulates policies, regulations, and guidelines related to aviation safety, security, and airport operations.

Airports: Nepal has several airports, ranging from international airports to domestic airstrips. These airports play a crucial role in facilitating both domestic and international air travel, as well as supporting tourism and trade.

International Airports: Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu and Gautam Buddha regional International Airport in Lumbini and Pokhara regional international airport in Pokhara are Nepal's main international airports. They handle international flights connecting Nepal with various countries.

Domestic Airports: There are numerous domestic airports and airstrips across the country, which are essential for connecting remote areas with major cities. These airports play a vital role in providing access to regions that are otherwise difficult to reach due to challenging terrain.

Airport Infrastructure: Airport infrastructure includes runways, taxiways, aprons, terminals, control towers, and various facilities like customs, immigration, security, lounges, baggage handling, and cargo facilities.

Air Traffic Control: Air traffic control (ATC) services are provided to manage the movement of aircraft in and around airports. ATC ensures safe and orderly takeoffs, landings, and aircraft movements on the ground.

Aviation Safety and Security: Nepal's airport system focuses on ensuring aviation safety and security. This involves compliance with international safety standards, regular inspections, and security measures to prevent unauthorized access and potential threats.

Passenger Services: Airports in Nepal provide services for passengers, including check-in counters, immigration and customs services, baggage claim, waiting lounges, and retail outlets.

Cargo Operations: Airports facilitate the transportation of goods through cargo facilities. These facilities handle the import and export of various goods, contributing to trade and economic activities.

Airport Management and Operations: Airport management involves coordinating various activities, such as flight scheduling, ground handling, maintenance, and administration. Effective management ensures smooth operations and customer satisfaction.

Airline Operations: Airlines play a crucial role in the airport system by operating flights, transporting passengers and cargo, and adhering to safety and operational regulations. Tourism and Economic Impact: Nepal's airports significantly contribute to the country's tourism industry, connecting visitors to popular destinations like Kathmandu, Pokhara, and trekking regions in the Himalayas. The aviation sector also contributes to the economy by generating employment and supporting trade.

Rules of Nepal Airport

Rules at airports are designed to ensure the safety, security, and smooth operation of air travel. These rules are typically established by aviation authorities, airport management, and international agreements. While specific rules can vary from one airport to another and from one country to another.

Security Screening: Passengers and their belongings go through security screening to detect prohibited items and ensure the safety of air travel. This involves passing through metal detectors, having bags scanned by X-ray machines, and possibly undergoing additional checks.

Identification and Documentation: Passengers must present valid identification (such as a passport or government-issued ID) and travel documents (boarding pass, visa, etc.) when checking in and passing through security.

Baggage Restrictions: There are rules regarding the size, weight, and content of both carry-on and checked baggage. Certain items, such as sharp objects, liquids in large quantities, and hazardous materials, may be restricted or prohibited.

Liquids and Gels: The 3-1-1 rule for liquids and gels in carry-on baggage is commonly followed, which means containers must be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or smaller, all containers must fit in a single quart-sized resealable plastic bag, and each passenger is limited to one bag.

Prohibited Items: Certain items like weapons, explosives, flammable materials, and other dangerous goods are strictly prohibited in both carry-on and checked baggage.

Boarding Procedures: Passengers are usually required to be present at the boarding gate well before the departure time. Boarding procedures are typically organized by seat rows or groups to ensure an orderly process.

Immigration and Customs: International travelers must comply with immigration and customs regulations, including declaring items subject to duties or restrictions.

Behavior and Conduct: Passengers are expected to follow respectful and appropriate behavior at all times. Disruptive behavior, aggression, or non-compliance with crew instructions can result in serious consequences.

Health and Safety Measures: In light of public health concerns, airports may have specific rules related to health screenings. These measures can change based on global health situations.

Parking and Vehicle Regulations: Airports often have rules for parking vehicles, dropping off passengers, and other vehicle-related activities. Unauthorized parking or stopping in restricted areas can result in penalties.

Electronic Devices: Electronic devices like mobile phones and laptops must go through security screening. During the flight, devices must be turned off or switched to airplane mode as per crew instructions.

Smoking: Smoking is usually prohibited inside airport buildings and on aircraft. Airports provide designated smoking areas outside terminal buildings.

Restricted Areas: Certain areas of airports, especially those beyond security checkpoints, are restricted to authorized personnel only.

Lost and Found: Airports have procedures for lost and found items. Passengers who lose belongings should report them to the appropriate authorities.

Emergency Procedures: Passengers are required to follow crew instructions in case of emergencies and familiarize themselves with safety information provided on flights.

Remember that specific rules can differ based on the airport's location, the country's regulations, and even the airline you're flying with. It's important to review the rules and guidelines provided by the airline and airport before you travel to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Custom Declaration
Custom Declaration on Arrival (For Foreign Nationals)
Duty Exempted Goods:
Binocular one set.
Tablet or Laptop one piece
Video camera one piece
Camera one pieceOne set of portable music system and 10 pieces of recorded media to be used in the music system
Used clothing articles, bedding and household goods
One set of professional equipment using by the passenger in her/his profession
Watch one piece
Cellular mobile phone one set
One bottle of liquor (upto 1.15 litre) of twelve cans of beer
Cigarette two hundred up to two hundred fifty grams
Prescribe Medicine (except the medicine banned to import into Nepal)
Some Food stuff (including pack food)
Gold Ornaments up-to Fifty grams and Silver Ornaments upto Hundred grams.

How can I organize trip in Nepal airport ?

Organizing a trip to Nepal and navigating through its airports involves several steps to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here's a general guide on how to organize your travel to Nepal and navigate its airports. You can prepare any trip in Nepal like Trekking in Nepal, Tour in Nepal and other adventure activities in Nepal.

Travel Planning:

Decide on your travel dates and duration of stay.
Research and decide on the places you want to visit in Nepal.
Check the weather conditions and the best time to travel based on your preferences.

Flights:

Search for flights to Nepal from your location from travel platforms or airlines' websites.
Flight durations, and airlines to find the best options.
visa and Documentation:
Check the visa requirements for Nepal based on your nationality. Some nationalities may be eligible for visa-on-arrival.
Apply for a visa if required, either in advance or upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport.
Ensure you have a valid passport with at least six months of validity beyond your planned departure date.
Health and Vaccinations:
Consult your healthcare provider for recommended vaccinations and health precautions before traveling to Nepal.
Consider travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and trip cancellations.

Packing and Baggage:

Pack appropriate clothing, footwear, and travel essentials based on the season and activities you plan to engage in.

Check baggage restrictions and guidelines for both carry-on and checked baggage.

Arrival in Nepal:

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (or other Nepalese airports), follow signs for immigration and customs. Complete immigration and visa procedures, if required. Collect your baggage from the baggage claim area Departure from Nepal Arrive at the airport well in advance of your flight's departure, typically 3 hours for international flights. Have your travel documents (passport, visa, boardin

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (or other Nepalese airports), follow signs for immigration and customs.

Complete immigration and visa procedures, if required.
Collect your baggage from the baggage claim area

Departure from Nepal

Arrive at the airport well in advance of your flight's departure, typically 3 hours for international flights.
Have your travel documents (passport, visa, boarding pass) and identification readily accessible.
Follow the signs to check-in counters for your airline.

Security and Immigration:

Proceed to the security checkpoint for baggage and personal screening.
Follow the instructions of airport security personnel.
After security, head to immigration counters for departure procedures (if applicable).

Boarding and Departure:

Proceed to your boarding gate, which will be indicated on your boarding pass.
Listen for announcements and pay attention to gate information displays.
Board the aircraft according to the instructions provided by airline staff

Transportation to Accommodation:

Arrange transportation from the airport to your accommodation. This can be done through per-arranged hotel transfers/your travel agent and taxi services.

Remember that while this guideline provides a general overview, each traveler's experience may vary based on personal preferences and specific circumstances. It's also important to stay updated with the latest travel advisories, entry requirements, and health guidelines, especially considering the potential impact of the ongoing global health situation.

Free Wi-Fi and Charging Stations

There are free WiFi services at both domestic and international terminals in association with World-Link Communications. Check SSID: Free_TIA_World-link_WiFi for free WiFi at the International Terminal Area of TIA.

Ground Transportation:

The airport is connected to the city and other areas by road. Various transportation options are available, including taxis, private car services, and public buses.

Parking:

The airport provides parking facilities for both short-term and long-term parking needs.

Can you sleep in Kathmandu Airport?

According to the latest rule implemented by Civil aviation Authority of Nepal However, due to its small size and limited facilities, the Airport Police strictly prohibit overnight sleeping at the airport but there is possibility outside the airport with payable.

Kathmandu Airport Tricks and Tips

Arrive early to avoid rushing and crowds if you are departing.
Be prepared for long lines and queues.
Bring a Book or something to get yourself engage.
Check your flight status before heading to the airport. You can visit https://www.tiairport.com.np/all-flights to check the current status.
Taxi/cab services are available 24 hours and also may overcharge tourists so always negotiate.
Get SIM Cards and subscribe to the data plan.
Connect to free WiFi within the airport to connect with your family but it is usually limited.
Download Offline Maps if possible.

How to come out the Kathmandu Airport and Catch our representative ?

To exit from Kathmandu Airport (Tribhuvan International Airport) and catch our representative, follow these steps:

Complete all the visa process by filling up the forms on your arrival, it may take time.
Go through the official custom check and immigration process.
Collect your luggage and keep your tags handy in order to pass the final check.
Once you are outside, look for our representative holding your name/ usually a cardboard or something with your tour or our trekking company’s name.
Use the official information desk for reliable info and avoid unofficial offerings or services.

Lost and found

In case you happen to misplace your baggage/luggage or your belongings in the terminal at Tribhuvan International Airport, please do not worry. For all unclaimed passenger’s baggage/luggage found in departure airline check-in, immigration and security check-in areas (except arrival immigration and Customs area) all the agencies at the airport are expected to deposit that baggage/luggage under the Lost & Found property through the Terminal Duty Office. The baggage/luggage are deposited after duly recording the description, date and time of deposition and the depositor’s signature.

Baggage handling and delivery at Tribhuvan International Airport is a responsibility of airlines from the point of check-in to the point of collection at destination airport. If anything is left on an aircraft, respective airlines should be contacted immediately.

Procedure for Claiming Lost Items

It is very important to return the lost items to the rightful owner. Therefore, lost items may be claimed on producing the following documents:

Copy of Boarding Card.

Details of the items being claimed.

An authorization letter is to be filled out and signed by the owner with details of the items being claimed. Photo ID card of the person who has been authorized to collect the item(s). Government-authorized Photo ID/ Passport / Driving License / Voter ID Card (any ID as applicable).

Note: All traveling passengers are requested not to carry any undeclared valuable items in their luggages and baggages. For declaration of valuable items, please contact Customs office located in the airline check-in area Block-B side.

Golden rules of cabin luggage

The fewer liquids you take in carry-on luggage, the better.

Don't pack anything that resembles a weapon, or could potentially be used to harm other passengers.
Check luggage size and weight limits before packing your bags.
Don't argue with airport security.
If in doubt, leave it out.

Lukla Airport

Lukla Airrport , officially know as Hillary airport .Lukla Airport (Tenzing-Hillary Airport) is a small and renowned airport located in the town of Lukla in the Khumbu region of Nepal. It is known for being the gateway to the Everest Base Camp trek and other trekking routes in the Everest region. The airport is situated at a high altitude and has a relatively short and sloping runway, making it a challenging destination for pilots.

Lukla Airport primarily serves domestic flights, connecting Lukla to the capital city, Kathmandu. Flights to Lukla are operated by various airlines and provide essential access for trekkers and climbers heading to the Everest region.

Due to its unique location and challenging terrain, Lukla Airport has gained fame and recognition as one of the exciting airports in the world. It offers stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks and has become an iconic starting point for many adventurers heading to the Everest region. The airport has a unique and challenging design due to its location in the Himalayas and the difficult terrain of the area.

• Location and Elevation: Lukla Airport is situated at an elevation of approximately 2,860 meters (9,383 feet) above sea level and Latitude 27° 41′ 16″ N/Longitude 86° 43′ 53″ E.Its location in the high Himalayas presents challenges for aircraft operations due to the thin air and rapidly changing weather conditions.

• Distance from Kathmandu to Lukla Airport: Kathmandu to Lukla Airport flight distance is 138 Kilometers and Flight Duration is about 30 minutes.

• Distance from Ramechhap Airport to Lukla Airport: The flight distance between Lukla Airport (Tenzing-Hillary Airport) and Ramechhap Airport (Manthali Airport) is approximately 79 kilometers (about 49 miles) in a straight line. This is the aerial distance between the two airports and does not account for the actual flight path taken by aircraft, which might vary due to airspace regulations, weather conditions, terrain and other factors.Flight duration is about 20 minutes.

• Runway: The airport has a single runway, which is relatively short and sloped. The runway is approximately 527 meters (1,729 feet) long and 30 meters (98 feet) wide.

• Aircraft Types: The airport mainly serves small aircraft, such as Twin Otters and Dornier Do 228s, which are well-suited for short takeoff and landing (STOL) operations. These aircraft are capable of handling the airport's unique challenges.

• Limited Capacity: Due to its small size and challenging conditions, Lukla Airport has limited capacity in terms of both aircraft parking and passenger terminal facilities. The terminal is basic and provides essential services to travelers.

• Terminal Facilities: The airport likely has basic terminal facilities to serve passengers, including waiting areas, check-in counters, security checks, and boarding gates.

• Air Traffic Control (ATC): There is likely an ATC tower or communication facility to manage aircraft movements, provide guidance to pilots during takeoff and landing, and ensure safe operations.

• Navigation Aids: Navigational aids, such as radio beacons and communication equipment, are essential for safe aircraft operations, especially in adverse weather conditions.

• Ground Handling Services: Basic ground handling services, such as refueling, baggage handling, and aircraft parking, are important for maintaining the airport's operations.

• Weather and safety: Lukla Airport's operations are highly dependent on weather conditions. Given the challenging weather conditions in the region, weather monitoring and forecasting systems are crucial for providing timely information to pilots and ensuring safe flights. Fog, rain, and wind can lead to flight delays and cancellations. Safety is a primary concern, and flights are often delayed or diverted when conditions are unfavorable.

• Challenging Approach and Takeoff: The approach and takeoff at Lukla Airport are considered to be one of the challenging. The runway is situated on the side of a hill and has a steep gradient, requiring skilled pilots to navigate safely. The airport's location and rapidly changing weather conditions, including frequent cloud cover, strong winds, and low visibility, add to the complexity of operations.

• Significance for Mount Everest Treks: Lukla Airport is a critical starting point for treks to Mount Everest and other destinations in the Everest region. Many trekkers and climbers begin their journeys here, as it saves them several days of walking compared to alternative routes.

• Improvement Efforts: Over the years, there have been discussions and efforts to improve Lukla Airport's infrastructure and safety. These efforts have included runway extensions, improvements in navigation aids, and enhancements to facilities. However, the challenging terrain and weather conditions continue to pose unique challenges.

Lukla Airport's unique characteristics and challenges make it an iconic and often-visited destination for adventurers and tourists, as well as a testament to the skill and expertise of pilots who operate in such demanding conditions.

Ramechhap (Manthali Airport)Airport

Ramechhap Airport also known as Manthali Airport is a domestic airport located in Manthali, Ramechhap District, Nepal. This airport serves as an alternative to the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu for flights to and from Lukla, especially during adverse weather conditions and particularly during times when Lukla Airport flights are operating from Kathmandu they have to complete with the international flights for the same runway which causes congestion. The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) decided to shift Lukla flights from kathmandu’s Tribhuban Intrenational Airport to Ramechhap Airport.This decision was made to ease traffic congestion at Kathmandu Airport during peak tourist season. Lukla Airport, as mentioned earlier, is the primary airport for accessing the Everest region.Ramechhap Airport is used as a secondary airport for flights to Lukla, especially during the peak trekking seasons when Kathmandu Airport can experience congestion and weather-related disruptions. Ramechhap Airport plays a vital role in facilitating access to the Everest region for trekkers, climbers, and tourists.

• Location and elevation: Ramechhap Airport is located in the Ramechhap District of Nepal.The approximate geographic coordinates of Ramechhap Airport is: Latitude: 27.2058° N and Longitude: 86.5497° E. The Airport is at an elevation of 474 meters(1555 feet)above the sea level.

• Runway and Infrastructure: Ramechhap Airport has a single runway suitable for small aircraft operations. The runway length 518 meters and width are designed to accommodate short takeoff and landing (STOL) aircraft.

• Terminal Facilities: The airport likely has basic terminal facilities to serve passengers, including waiting areas, check-in counters, security checks, and boarding gates.

• Navigation Aids: Navigational aids, such as radio beacons and communication equipment, are essential for safe aircraft operations, especially in adverse weather conditions.

• Ground Handling Services: Basic ground handling services, such as refueling, baggage handling, and aircraft parking, are important for maintaining the airport's operations.

• Weather Monitoring: Given the challenging weather conditions in the region, weather monitoring and forecasting systems are crucial for providing timely information to pilots and ensuring safe flights.

• Emergency Services: Adequate emergency services, including firefighting equipment and medical facilities, may be available to handle any emergencies that arise.

• Infrastructure Development: There might have been ongoing efforts to improve the infrastructure and facilities at Ramechhap Airport to accommodate increased traffic and enhance passenger comfort.

Airports in Nepal

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