List of 9 Top Airports in Nepal For Travelers

Nepal’s mountainous geography makes air travel essential for both locals and tourists. The country has several strategic airports in Nepal that connect remote regions and serve as gateways to its stunning Himalayan landscapes, ancient temples, and vibrant cultural experiences.

Let’s understand the top 9 airports in Nepal, their facilities, transportation options, and everything you need to know for a smooth travel experience through the country’s aviation network.

Here is an extensive list of airports in Nepal that you must know about before planning your trip: 

Airport Name	Type	Airport Code
Tribhuvan International Airport	International	KTM
Pokhara International Airport	International	PHR
Gautam Buddha International Airport	International	BWA
Biratnagar Airport	Domestic	BIR
Nepalgunj Airport	Domestic	KEP
Bharatpur Airport	Domestic	BHR
Simara Airport	Domestic	SIF
Dhangadhi Airport	Domestic	DHI
Lukla Airport	Domestic	LUA

1. Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) – Nepal’s Primary International Gateway

Tribhuvan International Airport is Nepal’s busiest and main international gateway. As a premier facility among airports in Nepal, it handles over 7 million passengers annually and serves as the hub for numerous international and domestic carriers connecting Kathmandu to destinations worldwide.

Address: Ring Rd, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/aAxWyC336os6NQdE6

Airport Code: KTM 

Category: Operates both domestic and international flights 

Phone: +97714113033

Distance from City Center/Prime Location: 7 km from Thamel (Kathmandu’s tourist district)

Operating Airlines: Nepal Airlines, Buddha Air, Yeti Airlines, Saurya Airlines, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, and many international carriers operate from this central hub, which is one of the best airports in Nepal.

Terminals: Two terminals – International Terminal and Domestic Terminal.

Services & Amenities:

• Free Wi-Fi throughout the international terminal
• ATMs and currency exchange services
• Duty-free shops and retail outlets
• Food and beverage options (cafes, restaurants)
• Information/help desks at multiple locations
• Medical and emergency services
• Pre-paid taxi and car rental counters
• Wheelchair and mobility assistance

Nearby Attractions:

• Pashupatinath Temple: One of the holiest Hindu temples in the world, located on the banks of the Bagmati River with centuries-old shrines, sacred cremation ghats, and religious ceremonies throughout the day.
• Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple): Ancient Buddhist stupa perched on a hilltop with panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley, colorful prayer flags, and resident monkeys that give the temple its nickname.
• Kathmandu Durbar Square: UNESCO-listed complex featuring intricately carved wooden palaces, courtyards, temples dating back to the 12th century, and the former royal palace (Hanuman Dhoka).
• Boudhanath Stupa: One of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world, with a massive mandala design and prayer wheels, is surrounded by monasteries and Tibetan shops selling traditional crafts.

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2. Pokhara International Airport (PHH) – Gateway to the Annapurna Region

Pokhara International Airport is Nepal’s newest international facility. This modern addition to the country’s airports began international operations in 2023 and provides a direct gateway to the scenic Pokhara region, famous for its lakes and mountain views.

Address: International Airport, Runway, Pokhara 33700, Nepal

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/JaSLqnUVgC1UCSBJ8

Airport Code: PHR 

Category: Operates both domestic and international flights 

Phone: +97761465725

Distance from City Center/PrimeLocation: 5 km from Lakeside Pokhara (main tourist area)

Operating Airlines: Buddha Air, Yeti Airlines, Saurya Airlines, and international carriers connecting Pokhara to regional destinations operate from this modern facility among Nepal’s airport facilities.

Terminals: One terminal serving both domestic and international flights.

Services & Amenities:

• Modern terminal with comfortable seating areas
• Clean and accessible restrooms
• Dining and shopping options
• Efficient check-in and security process
• Baggage handling services
• Ground transportation services

Nearby Attractions:

• Phewa Lake: A stunning lake at the heart of Pokhara offering boating, reflection views of the Annapurna range, and home to the island temple of Tal Barahi, which is dedicated to the goddess Durga.
• World Peace Pagoda: A gleaming white Buddhist stupa on a hilltop accessible by boat and hiking trail, offering spectacular panoramic views of Pokhara, the lake, and the snow-capped Himalayan peaks.
• International Mountain Museum: This fascinating museum documents mountaineering history, different climbing routes, equipment evolution, and the cultures of Nepal’s mountain communities.
• Devi’s Fall: A unique waterfall that disappears into an underground tunnel, created by the Pardi Khola stream, with a spiritual connection to a tragic accident that gave it its name.

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3. Gautam Buddha International Airport (BWA) – Lumbini Region’s Hub

Credit: Wikipedia

Gautam Buddha International Airport is Nepal’s third international airport. Located near Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, this important addition to the country’s airports enhances connectivity to this significant pilgrimage site and supports tourism in the region.

Address: Siddharthanagar 32900, Nepal

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/5x6uHDmvEbRjSt8f8

Airport Code: BWA 

Category: Operates both domestic and international flights 

Phone: +97771597021

Distance from City Center/Prime Location: 10 km from Siddharthanagar (Bhairahawa) city

Operating Airlines: Buddha Air, Yeti Airlines, and international carriers serving this growing addition to the best airports in Nepal’s network.

Terminals: One terminal handles both domestic and international flights.

Services & Amenities:

• Modern terminal facilities with air conditioning
• Check-in and security services
• Baggage handling and storage
• Transport options (taxis, buses, car rentals)
• Information desk for tourists
• Retail and food outlets

Nearby Attractions:

• Lumbini Sacred Garden: UNESCO World Heritage Site containing the Maya Devi Temple marking Buddha’s birthplace, the Ashoka Pillar, and a sacred pool where Buddha’s mother bathed before giving birth.
• Lumbini Monastic Zone: Large complex featuring dozens of monasteries built by Buddhist communities from around the world, each with distinctive architectural styles from countries like Thailand, China, Myanmar, and Japan.
• Belahiya-Sonauli Border: Bustling Nepal-India border crossing with markets, transportation hubs, and cultural exchange visible in the mix of people, goods, and customs.
• Tilaurakot (Kapilvastu): Archaeological site believed to be the ancient palace where Buddha spent his princely life, featuring ruins, a museum, and historical significance for Buddhist pilgrims.

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4. Biratnagar Airport (BIR) – Eastern Nepal’s Commercial Hub

Credit: Wikipedia

Biratnagar Airport serves eastern Nepal’s largest city. This domestic air facility connects the industrial hub of Biratnagar to Kathmandu and supports business and tourism in the eastern region of the country. Biratnagar airport has one terminal for domestic flights. 

Address: Biratnagar 56613, Nepal

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/W9fN3UYrJYNEut5L9

Airport Code: BIR 

Category: Domestic 

Phone: +97721461424

Distance from City Center/Prime Location: 7 km from Biratnagar city

Operating Airlines: Buddha Air, Yeti Airlines, and Shree Airlines operate regular flights to this eastern facility among Nepal’s airport facilities.

Terminals: One terminal handles domestic flights.

Services & Amenities:

• Terminal building with basic seating
• Check-in counters for multiple airlines
• Baggage handling services
• Taxi and local transport access
• Limited retail and food options

Nearby Attractions:

• Biratnagar Jute Mills: A Historic industrial complex representing Nepal’s first modern industry, established in 1936 with colonial-era architecture and significance in Nepal’s economic development.
• Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve: Nepal’s premier bird-watching destination with over 485 bird species, wild water buffaloes, and wetland ecosystems spanning 175 square kilometers along the Koshi River.
• Ilam Tea Gardens: Beautiful hillside plantations producing some of Nepal’s finest tea, with lush green landscapes, mist-covered hills, and opportunities for tours and tea tasting.
• Baraha Kshetra: Sacred Hindu pilgrimage site where Lord Vishnu is believed to have appeared in his boar incarnation, featuring temples along the banks of the Koshi River.

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5. Nepalgunj Airport (KEP) – Western Nepal’s Key Airport

Credit: Wikipedia

Nepalgunj Airport serves as a crucial hub for western Nepal. This strategic facility among airports in Nepal connects remote areas in the mid-western and far-western regions and serves as an important base for rescue operations and tourism.

Address: H 12, Manikapur 21900, Nepal 

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/RzL47r5376xDTgbo7

Airport Code: KEP 

Category: Domestic 

Phone: +97781565210 

Distance from City Center/Prime Location: 10 km from Nepalgunj city center

Operating Airlines: Buddha Air, Yeti Airlines, Tara Air, and Saurya Airlines connect this western hub to other airports in Nepal.

Terminals: One terminal handles domestic flights.

Services & Amenities:

• Airline reservation desks
• ATMs and basic banking services
• Baggage drop-off and handling
• Small retail shops and food outlets
• Information desk for travelers
• Ground transportation services

Nearby Attractions:

• Bageshwori Temple: Ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Bageshwori, featuring traditional Nepali architecture, colorful festivals, and daily worship rituals dating back centuries.
• Banke National Park: One of Nepal’s newer national parks, established in 2010, provides a habitat for endangered tigers, elephants, and rhinoceros, with opportunities for jungle safaris.
• Rapti River: Scenic waterway bordering Bardiya National Park offering boat safaris, opportunities to spot crocodiles and river dolphins, and beautiful sunset views over the water.
• Tharu Cultural Museum: Showcase of the indigenous Tharu people’s unique culture, featuring traditional homes, artifacts, clothing, and information about their sustainable lifestyle adapted to the Terai region.

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6. Bharatpur Airport (BHR) – Gateway to Chitwan National Park

Credit: Wikipedia

Bharatpur Airport is the closest airport to Chitwan National Park. This domestic facility among airports in Nepal serves tourism in the Chitwan region, famous for its wildlife and jungle safaris, making it a popular entry point for nature enthusiasts.

Address: Bharatpur 44200, Nepal

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/21jtvqMRhfKJJBru6

Airport Code: BHR 

Category: Domestic 

Phone: +97756524975

Distance from City Center/Prime Location: 2 km from Bharatpur City

Operating Airlines: Buddha Air, Yeti Airlines, and Saurya Airlines connect this tourism-focused facility to other airports in Nepal.

Terminals: One terminal handles domestic flights.

Services & Amenities:

• Terminal building with check-in counters
• Waiting lounges with basic amenities
• Baggage handling services
• Parking for private vehicles and rentals
• Taxi and shuttle services to Chitwan
• Basic retail and food options

Nearby Attractions:

• Chitwan National Park: UNESCO World Heritage Site protecting 932 square kilometers of forests and grasslands, home to the endangered one-horned rhinoceros, Royal Bengal tigers, and over 500 bird species.
• Sauraha Tourist District: Gateway village to Chitwan with numerous hotels, restaurants, cultural shows featuring Tharu stick dances, and departure points for jungle safaris and elephant encounters.
• Bis Hazari Lake: Large oxbow lake inside Chitwan National Park offering boat rides to spot crocodiles, numerous bird species, and occasionally rhinos and tigers coming to drink.
• Tharu Cultural Museum and Research Center: This educational facility showcases the indigenous Tharu culture through displays of traditional houses, tools, clothing, and demonstrations of daily activities.

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7. Simara Airport (SIF) – Central Lowlands Connection

Credit: Wikipedia

Simara Airport serves the industrial corridor of central Nepal. This facility among the airports in Nepal connects the Bara district and the important border city of Birgunj to Kathmandu, supporting business travelers and commerce in this economically significant region.

Address: Airport Rd 44412, Gadhimai 44400, Nepal

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/X4ZftPPpXvY6AN679

Airport Code: SIF 

Category: Domestic 

Phone: +97753520210

Distance from City Center/Prime Location: 20 km from Birgunj City

Operating Airlines: Buddha Air and Yeti Airlines operate from this business-oriented facility among Nepal airport facilities.

Terminals: One terminal for domestic operations.

Services & Amenities:

• Basic check-in and ticketing counters
• Waiting area with seating
• Baggage handling services
• Ground transportation to Birgunj
• Limited refreshment options

Nearby Attractions:

• Maisthan Mandir: Historic Hindu temple in Birgunj dedicated to Goddess Durga, featuring traditional Nepali religious architecture and regular ceremonies attracting devotees from both Nepal and India.
• Parsa National Park: A protected wilderness area connecting to Chitwan National Park, offering less-visited jungle habitats with tigers, elephants, and diverse wildlife without the tourist crowds.
• Ghadiarwa Pokhari: A large pond in Birgunj surrounded by gardens and walking paths, providing a peaceful recreational area for locals and visitors to enjoy nature within the urban setting.
• Birgunj Clock Tower (Ghantaghar): Central landmark and meeting point in Birgunj city with surrounding markets, shops, and the bustling commerce of this important border trading hub.

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8. Dhangadhi Airport (DHI) – Far-Western Aviation Center

Credit: Wikipedia

Dhangadhi Airport serves as far-western Nepal’s aviation hub. This regional facility among airports in Nepal connects the remote western districts to Kathmandu and serves as a gateway to the far-western region’s natural and cultural attractions.

Address: Attariya 10900, Nepal

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/JCr5auNevzVYRMjf7

Airport Code: DHI 

Category: Domestic 

Phone: +97791525702

Distance from City Center/Prime Location: 17 km from Dhangadhi city

Operating Airlines: Buddha Air and Yeti Airlines connect this western gateway to other airports in Nepal’s network.

Terminals: One domestic passenger terminal.

Services & Amenities:

• Terminal with a basic waiting area
• Check-in and baggage handling services
• Taxi and local transport access
• Basic amenities for travelers
• Limited food and refreshment options
• Information services

Nearby Attractions:

• Shuklaphanta National Park: A protected area spanning 305 square kilometers known for having the largest herd of swamp deer in Nepal, along with tigers, elephants, and more than 400 bird species.
• Ghodaghodi Lake: Ramsar-listed wetland complex consisting of multiple interconnected lakes, supporting diverse aquatic ecosystems and religious significance for indigenous communities.
• Mohana River: Major waterway forming part of the Nepal-India border, with fishing opportunities, riverside villages, and importance for local agriculture and transportation.
• Dhangadhi Regional Museum: Cultural institution showcasing the diverse heritage of far-western Nepal through exhibits of traditional artifacts, historical items, and information about local ethnic groups.

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9. Lukla Airport (LUA) – Gateway to the Everest Region

Credit: Wikipedia

Lukla Airport, officially known as Tenzing-Hillary Airport, is Nepal’s legendary mountain airstrip and the primary gateway for trekkers and climbers heading to the Everest region. The airport sits at an elevation of 2,860 meters (9,383 feet) and is widely recognized as one of the most dangerous airports in the world due to its short, sloping runway and unpredictable Himalayan weather.

Address: MPQJ+6H8, Lukla – Everest Base Camp Trekking Route 30, Chaurikharka 56000, Nepal 

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/x2xSUsxptGCfiPgQA
Airport Code: LUA
Category: Domestic flights only
Phone: +97738550044
Distance from City Center/Prime Location: Located in the heart of Lukla village, at the start of the Everest Base Camp trek (about 136 km northeast of Kathmandu; 30–35 min flight from Kathmandu).
Operating Airlines: Tara Air, Summit Air, Sita Air, and Nepal Airlines operate regular flights connecting Lukla with Kathmandu and other regional airports.
Terminals: One small terminal (Terminal 1) handles all arrivals and departures.
Services & Amenities:

• Basic passenger assistance and information desk
• Limited food and beverage kiosks
• ATMs and currency exchange (availability may vary)
• Prepaid porter and baggage services
• No Wi-Fi or duty-free shops
• Medical and emergency assistance
• Taxi and porter services for trekkers

Nearby Attractions:

• Everest Base Camp Trek: Lukla is the traditional starting point for the world-famous trek to Everest Base Camp, offering access to stunning Himalayan landscapes, Sherpa villages, and the Sagarmatha National Park.
• Namche Bazaar: The bustling Sherpa capital, a two-day trek from Lukla, is renowned for its markets, bakeries, and breathtaking mountain views.
• Khumjung Monastery: A picturesque monastery village, home to the legendary “Yeti scalp” and offering insights into Sherpa culture and Buddhist traditions.
• Sagarmatha National Park Museum: Located in Namche Bazaar, this museum showcases the natural and cultural heritage of the Everest region, including mountaineering history and local wildlife.

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Top 5 Places You Must Visit in Nepal

Nepal’s landscapes shift dramatically from the snow-capped Himalayas to steamy jungles in just a few hundred miles. As you fly into the airports, you’ll get your first glimpse of this extraordinary terrain. 

We’ve pinpointed the must-see destinations that define Nepal’s character, from Kathmandu’s ancient temples to Pokhara’s lakeside tranquility and the Everest region’s legendary peaks.

Place	Location	Highlights
Kathmandu Valley	Bagmati Province	Durbar squares, temples, UNESCO sites, and Newari culture
Pokhara	Gandaki Province	Lakeside, Himalayan views, adventure sports, caves
Chitwan National Park	Bagmati Province	Wildlife safaris, rhinos, tigers, Tharu culture
Lumbini	Lumbini Province	Buddha’s birthplace, monasteries, meditation gardens
Bandipur	Gandaki Province	Traditional architecture, mountain views, and cultural experiences

Kathmandu Valley

The Kathmandu Valley is Nepal’s cultural and historical heart, encompassing the ancient cities of Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features remarkable Durbar Squares with intricately carved temples and statues.

Visitors can explore Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), and Boudhanath Stupa, immersing themselves in Nepal’s rich religious heritage. The valley also showcases the vibrant Newari culture through its festivals, traditional cuisine, and distinctive architecture.

Best For: History enthusiasts, cultural explorers, and photography lovers.

Pokhara

Pokhara, nestled beside the serene Phewa Lake beneath the towering Annapurna and Machapuchare peaks, serves as Nepal’s adventure and leisure capital. The city is the gateway to the famous Annapurna trekking circuit and offers numerous activities.

Visitors can enjoy paragliding over the lake, boating on Phewa Lake, and exploring caves and waterfalls. The lakeside district features vibrant cafes and shops, while attractions like the World Peace Pagoda and International Mountain Museum provide cultural insights.

Best For: Adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those seeking relaxation.

Chitwan National Park

Located in the subtropical Terai lowlands, Chitwan National Park is Nepal’s premier wildlife destination and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park protects endangered one-horned rhinoceroses, Royal Bengal tigers, and over 500 bird species.

Visitors can experience jeep and canoe safaris, jungle walks, and cultural interactions with the indigenous Tharu community. The park headquarters at Sauraha offers excellent visitor facilities and accommodation options ranging from budget to luxury.

Best For: Wildlife enthusiasts, nature photographers, and eco-tourists.

Lumbini

Lumbini, in western Nepal, is revered as the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama—the Buddha. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features the sacred Maya Devi Temple marking the exact spot of Buddha’s birth, surrounded by ancient ruins and monasteries.

The peaceful Lumbini Garden complex includes monasteries built by Buddhist communities from around the world, each with distinctive architectural styles. The area provides a serene setting for meditation, spiritual reflection, and learning about Buddhism’s origins.

Best For: Spiritual travelers, history buffs, and those seeking tranquility.

Bandipur

Bandipur is a beautifully preserved hilltop town showcasing traditional Newari architecture and pedestrian-friendly streets. This hidden gem offers sweeping views of the Marsyangdi valley and Himalayan peaks, including Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Manaslu.

The town feels like a living museum with its 18th-century temples, historic houses, and authentic cultural atmosphere. Visitors can experience local festivals, traditional cuisine, and rural Nepali hospitality away from the busy tourist centers.

Best For: Off-the-beaten-path travelers, culture enthusiasts, and photographers.

FAQs

What are the accommodation options near major airports in Nepal?

Major airports in Nepal offer a range of lodging options. Tribhuvan International Airport has numerous hotels in Kathmandu, ranging from budget to luxury. Pokhara International Airport is close to Lakeside’s hospitality district, while smaller airports in Nepal typically have basic guesthouses and hotels in nearby towns.

What are some of the facilities at Nepalese airports?

Nepal airport facilities vary by location. International airports like Tribhuvan and Pokhara offer duty-free shopping, restaurants, currency exchange, and free Wi-Fi. Domestic airports in Nepal typically provide basic amenities such as waiting areas, simple refreshments, and transportation services to nearby towns.

What transportation options are available from airports in Nepal?

Airport transportation in Nepal includes taxis, pre-paid taxi services, airport shuttles, and local buses at major airports. Tribhuvan International Airport offers pre-paid taxi counters, while smaller airports in Nepal typically have taxis and jeeps available. 

How can I travel between different airports in Nepal?

Domestic flights connect many airports in Nepal, with airlines like Buddha Air, Yeti Airlines, and Tara Air offering regular services. Alternatively, buses and private vehicles connect major cities, though mountain roads can make ground travel time-consuming compared to flying.

What items cannot be brought into Nepal?

Nepal enforces customs regulations at all airports in Nepal. Prohibited items include narcotics, weapons, wildlife products, and certain cultural artifacts. Visitors should avoid bringing beef products due to religious sensitivities. Drones require special permission, and Indian currency notes above Rs.100 are not legally accepted.

How much is 1 USD in Nepalese Rupees?

Based on current exchange rates, 1 United States Dollar (USD) is approximately 134 Nepalese Rupees (NPR). Currency exchange services are available at international airports in Nepal, though rates may be better in city centers.

Which are the nearest airports to popular Nepalese destinations?

The main airports in Nepal serving popular destinations include Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu Valley, Pokhara International Airport (PHR) in the Annapurna region, Lukla Airport (LUA) in the Everest region, and Bharatpur Airport (BHR) in Chitwan National Park.

What is the best time to visit Nepal?

The best time to visit depends on your activities. From September to November, the skies are clear and the weather is perfect for trekking and enjoying mountain views. March to May brings spring blooms and moderate temperatures. The monsoon (June-August) can be good for cultural experiences and lush landscapes.

What procedures should be followed if belongings get lost inside a Nepalese airport?

For lost items at airports in Nepal, contact the airport’s information desk or security office immediately. Items lost on aircraft require contacting the airline directly. You will find lost and found services at all airports.