Tribhuvan International Airport

Kathmandu International Airport (TIA) Travel Guide by Nepal Himalayas Trekking

Kathmandu International Airport, officially known as Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), is Nepal’s primary gateway for international travelers. Located just 6 kilometers from the heart of Kathmandu, this airport is the main hub for all international and domestic air traffic in Nepal. As a local trekking and travel company with over a decade of experience, Nepal Himalayas Trekking is here to help you navigate through every aspect of your airport journey.

Tribhuvan International Airport – Overview

• IATA Code: KTM

• ICAO Code: VNKT

• Location: Gaushala, Kathmandu, Nepal

• Elevation: 4,390 ft (1,338 m)

• Runways: Single runway, suitable for both domestic and international flights

• Type: Public / International

• Operator: Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN)

TIA is Nepal’s first and only international airport until the recent additions in other regions. It connects Nepal to major cities across Asia, the Middle East, and beyond.

All Possible Flights from Kathmandu International Airport

International Destinations (Direct Flights):

• India – Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangalore

• China – Guangzhou, Chengdu, Kunming

• UAE – Dubai, Abu Dhabi

• Qatar – Doha

• Turkey – Istanbul

• Malaysia – Kuala Lumpur

• Thailand – Bangkok

• Singapore

• Saudi Arabia – Dammam

• Kuwait

• Bangladesh – Dhaka

• Japan – Narita (seasonal charter flights)

Domestic Flights:

• Kathmandu to Lukla Flight in the Everest region for the Everest Base Camp Trek, including the Everest Base Camp Trek Packages. 

• Kathmandu to Pokhara Flight to visit Pokhara Sarangkot, Mini Trek called Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, Mardi Himal Trek, Annapurna Base Camp Trek & Dhampus Sarangkot Hiking 

• Kathmandu to Bharatpur Flight to See Chitwan National Park and for a Jungle Safari at Chitwan National Park. 

• Nepalgunj Flight for Lower Dolpo Trek, Upper Dolpo Trek and Mugu to Mustang Trek

• Flight to Jomsom from Pokhara for Upper Mustang Trek, Upper Mustang Jeep Tour and Jomsom Muktinath Tour

• Tumlingtar Flight for Makalu Base Camp Trek & Makalu Peak Expedition in Arun Valley

• Bhairahawa for Lumbini Tour 

• Dhangadhi

• Simikot

• Biratnagar

Note: Flight schedules vary seasonally due to weather and visibility conditions.

Facilities & Services at TIA

• Visa-on-arrival counters for eligible nationalities

• Currency exchange and ATM machines

• Luggage trolleys and porters

• Duty-free shops (perfumes, electronics, spirits)

• Food courts and cafés (local snacks, tea, coffee)

• VIP & Business lounges

• Free Wi-Fi access (limited)

• Medical services and first aid

• Lost and found

• Prepaid taxi booth

• Tourist information desk

• Car rental services

• Prayer rooms

• SIM card stalls (for Ncell and NTC)

Contact Us – Nepal Himalayas Trekking

Planning a trek or tour starting from Kathmandu? Need help with your airport pickup or drop? Contact us anytime for 24/7 airport assistance and trip planning.

Nepal Himalayas Trekking Pvt. Ltd.
📍 Paknajol Marg, Thamel, Kathmandu, Nepal
📧 info@nepalhimalayastrekking.com
📱 WhatsApp/Viber: +977-9841146306
🌐 www.nepalhimalayastrekking.com

Arrival Information

When you land at TIA, proceed to the Immigration Area for visa processing (if required), then collect your baggage and go through customs. Tourist SIM cards and local currency exchange are available near the exit gates. Prepaid taxis to Thamel or your hotel are readily available.

Departure Information

Make sure you:

• Carry a printed copy of your flight ticket

• Arrive at least 3 hours early for international flights

• Clear security and customs early

• Have your immigration forms filled and passport ready

Luggage wrapping services are available at the terminal if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kathmandu International Airport

👉 How early should I get to Kathmandu Airport?

We recommend arriving 3 hours before your international flight and 1.5 to 2 hours for domestic flights. Security and immigration can take time, especially during peak tourist seasons (March–May and Sept–Nov).

What is Kathmandu International Airport called?

It is officially known as Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA).

What is the full form of TIA airport?

TIA stands for Tribhuvan International Airport, named after King Tribhuvan, a historical monarch of Nepal.

 How many international airports are there in Nepal?

As of 2025, Nepal has 3 international airports:

1. Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) – Kathmandu

2. Gautam Buddha International Airport (BWA) – Bhairahawa

3. Pokhara International Airport (PKR) – Pokhara

What is Nepal’s biggest airport?

Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) remains the busiest and largest international airport in Nepal in terms of passenger volume and international connectivity.

Which is the biggest airport in the world?

As of now, the King Fahd International Airport (DMM) in Saudi Arabia is the largest in terms of land area. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) in the USA is the busiest by passenger traffic.

 How much gold is allowed in the Nepal airport?

As per current customs regulations:

• A male passenger can carry up to 50 grams of gold duty-free.

• A female passenger can carry up to 100 grams of gold.
  Carrying excess gold may result in fines or seizure, so check the latest rules with the Nepal Customs Office or your airline before traveling.

👉 Is 2 hours early enough at the airport?

For international departures from Kathmandu, 2 hours might be tight, especially during peak seasons. Always aim for 3 hours to avoid delays due to long immigration and security queues.

 Is ghee allowed in an international flight?

Ghee is considered a liquid or gel and may be restricted in cabin luggage, especially in larger quantities. However, you can pack sealed ghee jars in your checked baggage for most international flights. Always check your airline’s policy.

How to Survive Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu: A Quick Guide

Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu may not be the most modern or spacious airport, but with the right approach, you can navigate it with ease. Whether you’re arriving or departing, here are some smart tips to help you survive (and even enjoy) your time at Nepal’s busiest airport.

Arrival Tips

• Have your documents ready: Keep your passport, visa-on-arrival form, and one passport-sized photo easily accessible.

• Expect a wait at immigration, especially during peak tourist seasons (spring and autumn).

• Use the official taxi counter outside the terminal for safe and fixed-rate rides to your hotel in Thamel or elsewhere.

Departure Tips

• Arrive 3 hours early for international flights to handle check-in, security, and immigration without stress.

• Check your airline's baggage policy beforehand, as excess luggage fees can be steep.

• Bring snacks and water—TIA has limited food options beyond security.

 Pro Travel Hacks

• Wi-Fi is available but often unreliable; download e-boarding passes and entertainment in advance.

• Carry local currency (NPR) for any purchases or last-minute airport fees.

• Keep patience—TIA can feel chaotic, but airport staff are generally helpful.

Tribhuvan International Airport might test your travel patience, but with preparation and realistic expectations, it’s easy to get through. Let Nepal Himalayas Trekking handle your airport transfers and travel logistics so you can focus on your adventure ahead!

Final Tips from Nepal Himalayas Trekking

• Always carry extra photocopies of your passport and visa

• Keep your boarding pass and luggage tags

• Don’t forget to reconfirm your flight 24 hours before departure

• Use official taxi counters or pre-book transfers to your hotel

Need help with your trekking permits, airport pickups, or hotel bookings? Reach out to Nepal Himalayas Trekking—your trusted local partner for Nepal adventures. Let us handle your worries so you can focus on the journey ahead. Welcome to Nepal – Your Himalayan Adventure Starts at TIA!