International Flights to Kathmandu

Published On : 28th Apr, 2025 By Himalayan Dream Team

International Flights to Kathmandu – How to Get to Nepal in 2025

Planning your journey to Nepal in 2025? Whether you're trekking to Everest Base Camp, exploring ancient temples in Kathmandu, or visiting sacred sites like Lumbini, getting here is easier than ever. With a growing number of international flights to Kathmandu from major cities across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, Nepal is now more accessible to global travelers. Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu remains the primary gateway, while new regional hubs like Lumbini’s Gautam Buddha International Airport are expanding Nepal’s international reach.

If you're looking for cheap international flights to Kathmandu, the best approach is to book early and fly via popular transit hubs like Delhi, Doha, Dubai, Bangkok, or Kuala Lumpur. Most flights to Nepal include a short layover in these cities, offering convenient connections. Major airlines such as Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Singapore Airlines, and Flydubai offer reliable and cost-effective routes. No matter where you're flying from, understanding how to get to Nepal with the right flight plan can save you both time and money—while getting you closer to the adventure of a lifetime.

Why All Flights Land in Kathmandu?

Wondering why all flights land in Kathmandu? The answer lies in Nepal’s current air infrastructure. Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu is the country’s main international gateway, handling the vast majority of flights to Nepal. Located in the capital city, TIA connects travelers from across Asia, the Middle East, and beyond, making it the most convenient entry point for tourists, trekkers, and business travelers alike. With daily services from major airlines like Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, and Air India, flights to Kathmandu remain the most reliable and accessible option for international arrivals.

While Kathmandu International Airport remains the busiest and best-equipped, Nepal is expanding its aviation network. Both Gautam Buddha International Airport in Lumbini and Pokhara International Airport have recently opened to handle selected regional and international flights. These emerging hubs are especially beneficial for travelers coming from South Asia or the Middle East and are expected to grow in the coming years. However, for now, most international flights to Nepal still land in Kathmandu due to its better infrastructure, wider connectivity, and central location.

Cheap International Flights to Kathmandu – Smart Travel Tips

Traveling to Nepal doesn’t have to break the bank. With a little planning and the right strategy, you can easily find cheap international flights to Kathmandu—the gateway to the Himalayas and your adventures in Nepal. Here’s how to book affordably and travel smart in 2025.

Use Major Transit Hubs for Budget-Friendly Routes

The most effective way to save money on your flight to Nepal is by routing through major air transit cities. Delhi (India), Doha (Qatar), Dubai (UAE), Bangkok (Thailand), and Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) are the top international layover cities offering frequent and cost-efficient flights to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu.

From these cities, you’ll find regular services operated by both low-cost and full-service airlines such as:

• Flydubai (Dubai to Kathmandu)

• IndiGo (Delhi to Kathmandu)

• Thai Smile (Bangkok to Kathmandu)

• Air Arabia (Sharjah to Kathmandu)

• Batik Air (Kuala Lumpur to Kathmandu)

• Air India and Vistara (Delhi to Kathmandu)

Booking a flight that includes one of these stopovers can significantly lower the total fare compared to long-haul direct routes, especially from Europe, North America, or Australia.

Best Time to Book for Lower Airfare

While Kathmandu is a year-round destination, airfare pricing depends heavily on the season.

• Peak Season (High Prices): October, November, and April are the busiest travel months due to the prime trekking season and major festivals. Expect higher demand and limited availability.

• Shoulder Season (Best Deals): For cheaper flights to Kathmandu, plan your trip in February, March, or early December. These months offer a balance of good weather and lower flight costs.

• Monsoon Season (Cheapest Flights): June to August tends to have the lowest airfare, though heavy rains may affect travel plans in the hills and mountains.

Compare Deals from Multiple Sources

To get the best price, combine online tools and local expertise:

• Use Fare Aggregators: Platforms like Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Momondo help compare fares from multiple airlines instantly.

• Check Airline Websites: Often, airline websites offer exclusive promos not listed on third-party sites.

• Contact Local Travel Agents: In many countries, local agents may access unpublished group rates or seasonal deals especially useful for family or group travel.

Bonus Tip: Consider Nearby Airports

While Kathmandu is Nepal’s primary international airport, keep an eye on growing regional hubs like:

• Gautam Buddha International Airport (Lumbini) – Now serving flights from Jazeera Airways (Kuwait) and expanding services in 2025.

• Pokhara International Airport – Expected to welcome more regional flights soon.

Flying into these airports could occasionally offer lower rates or better timing, especially for travelers coming from the Middle East or South Asia.

Airlines Flying to Kathmandu in 2025

Here's a complete list of international airlines offering both direct and connecting flights to Kathmandu (TIA) and Lumbini (GBIA) from across Asia, the Middle East, and beyond.

How to Fly to Nepal from Different Continents

Planning your journey and wondering how to get to Nepal from your region? While direct international flights to Kathmandu are limited, Nepal remains highly accessible through well-connected global transit hubs. Here’s a detailed guide based on your continent of departure:

From North America or Europe

There are no direct flights from the USA, Canada, or Europe to Kathmandu. However, travelers can conveniently connect to Nepal by transiting through major hubs like:

• Doha with Qatar Airways

• Istanbul with Turkish Airlines

• Delhi with Air India, IndiGo, or Vistara

These airlines operate regular and efficient services to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu. Booking multi-leg flights through these transit points is the most common and time-efficient way to reach Nepal from Europe or North America.

From Southeast Asia

Travelers from Southeast Asia have the convenience of direct flights to Kathmandu, making Nepal an easy getaway destination. Fly nonstop from cities like Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, and Jakarta with:

• Singapore Airlines (Singapore – Kathmandu)

• Thai Smile (Bangkok – Kathmandu)

• Batik Air and Malaysia Airlines (Kuala Lumpur – Kathmandu)

These carriers offer both economy and premium service options with excellent frequency, ideal for holidaymakers, trekkers, or pilgrims.

From the Middle East

Nepal is extremely well connected with the Gulf region, offering a wide range of cheap international flights to Kathmandu from cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, Muscat, and Kuwait. You can book direct flights with:

• Qatar Airways (Doha)

• Flydubai and Emirates/Flydubai combo (Dubai)

• Etihad Airways and Air Arabia (Abu Dhabi and Sharjah)

• Salam Air and Oman Air (Muscat, Kuwait)

• Jazeera Airways (Kuwait to Lumbini – GBIA)

These routes are especially popular among Nepali expatriates, trekkers entering from the west, and travelers connecting from Africa or Central Asia.

Travel Insights – 2025 Updates on International Airports in Nepal

As Nepal’s tourism industry continues to grow, the country is expanding its aviation infrastructure to accommodate more international travelers. While Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu still handles the majority of international traffic, two new international airports are gradually stepping into the spotlight, offering more flexibility and convenience for visitors in 2025.

Gautam Buddha International Airport (GBIA) – Lumbini

Located in Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, Gautam Buddha International Airport is now operational for selected international flights. Currently, airlines such as Jazeera Airways (Kuwait) and Salam Air are offering regular services. This airport is expected to expand its international connectivity in 2025, with new routes likely to launch from South Asia and the Middle East. GBIA offers a great alternative entry point for those visiting southern Nepal or exploring cultural and religious sites.

Pokhara International Airport (PIA)

Pokhara International Airport, inaugurated in early 2023, is in its initial phase of international operations. As of 2025, it primarily serves charter flights and regional connections, but expansion plans are underway. Once fully operational, this airport will become a major gateway to the Annapurna region, reducing the travel time for trekkers and tourists who currently have to transit via Kathmandu.

Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) – Kathmandu

Despite the emergence of new airports, Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport remains the primary international hub for Nepal. TIA continues to operate flights from all major global airlines, including Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Emirates (via Flydubai), and Air India. With its well-established infrastructure and central location, it remains the most reliable airport for travelers flying into Nepal in 2025.

Airlines Flying to Kathmandu in 2025

Top Transit Hubs for Flights to Nepal

When planning your journey to Nepal, choosing the right transit hub can significantly impact both the cost and convenience of your travel. The most common international gateways to Nepal include Delhi (India), Doha (Qatar), Dubai (UAE), Bangkok (Thailand), and Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia). These cities serve as major connection points offering regular and budget-friendly flights to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu.

Travelers flying from Europe, North America, or Australia often route through these hubs to access more affordable airfare and shorter layover times. These cities are well-connected by top global airlines like Qatar Airways, Emirates, Air India, and Thai Smile, making them ideal for international passengers heading to Nepal.

How to Find the Best Airfare Deals to Kathmandu

If you're searching for cheap flights to Kathmandu, there are several effective ways to secure the best deals. Start by booking your tickets several months in advance, especially if you plan to travel during Nepal’s peak trekking seasons (October–November and March–April). Use fare comparison websites like Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Momondo to monitor prices across different airlines.

Flying mid-week, being flexible with your travel dates, and selecting connecting flights through transit hubs like Delhi, Bangkok, or Doha can significantly reduce your airfare. Also, keep an eye on the official websites of airlines such as Flydubai, Batik Air, or Air Arabia, as they often release limited-time promotional fares. Consulting a local travel agent in your home country can also uncover group rates or deals not available online.

Airlines Offering Connecting Flights to Nepal

Many major international airlines provide connecting flights to Kathmandu, even if they don’t fly there directly. For example, Emirates passengers can reach Nepal via Flydubai, its codeshare partner. Lufthansa and KLM offer access through shared connections with Middle Eastern or Indian airlines such as Qatar Airways or Air India.

Popular indirect routes include:

• New York → Doha → Kathmandu (via Qatar Airways)

• London → Istanbul → Kathmandu (via Turkish Airlines)

• Sydney → Kuala Lumpur → Kathmandu (via Batik Air or Malaysia Airlines)

These connections allow travelers from almost anywhere in the world to reach Nepal with ease, often at competitive prices.

Baggage & Visa Information for International Travelers

Before flying to Nepal, international travelers should be aware of both baggage policies and visa requirements. Most airlines allow at least one 23 kg checked bag for economy passengers on international routes. Budget airlines may have stricter limits or charge extra for checked baggage, so check your airline's policy before booking.

For visas, Nepal offers Visa on Arrival for most nationalities, including travelers from the USA, UK, EU, Australia, and Canada. All you need is a valid passport with at least six months’ validity, a passport-sized photo, and the visa fee (usually paid in USD or NPR). For faster processing, consider filling out the online visa form before arrival through the Nepal Immigration website.

Airports Near Nepal (Alternative Entry Options)

Besides flying directly to Kathmandu, travelers can also consider entering Nepal via neighboring India, especially if visiting eastern or southern Nepal. Nearby Indian airports such as Bagdogra, Patna, and Varanasi are located within a few hours’ drive of the Nepal border.

From these airports, you can cross into Nepal by land through border towns like Kakarbhitta, Birgunj, or Sunauli, and then connect to cities like Biratnagar, Janakpur, or Lumbini. This option is especially useful for budget travelers, regional visitors, or those planning overland travel in India and Nepal.

What Time to Arrive for International Flights in Kathmandu

Travelers departing from Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu should arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before their international flight. Due to limited terminal space and occasional delays in immigration and security checks, early arrival helps avoid stress during busy travel periods.

Keep in mind that peak departure times (especially during early morning and late evening) can lead to longer queues. Have your printed or digital boarding pass, valid passport, visa documents, and travel insurance ready to ensure a smooth process. If flying with regional carriers, also confirm terminal assignments, as Kathmandu Airport has limited signage.

Flying to Nepal for Trekking: Which Airport is Best?

If you're flying to Nepal specifically for trekking in the Everest, Annapurna, Langtang, or Mustang regions, knowing the most suitable airport can save you time and cost. For most treks, Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) remains the primary entry point. From there, you can take domestic flights to Lukla, Pokhara, or Jomsom, depending on your trekking region.

However, if you're planning to trek in Annapurna or Upper Mustang, consider flying into the new Pokhara International Airport, which is expected to offer international connections in the near future. This cuts down on domestic transfers and brings you closer to trailheads in western Nepal.

Required Documents for International Travel to Nepal

Before boarding your flight to Nepal, make sure you carry the necessary documents. Most travelers will need:

• A valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)

• A Nepal visa (available on arrival or online for many nationalities)

• Travel insurance covering medical and emergency evacuation (especially for trekkers)

• A return or onward flight ticket

• Recent passport-sized photos (needed for visa-on-arrival or trekking permits)

For trekkers or adventure travelers, additional permits such as TIMS, ACAP, or Restricted Area Permits may be required, depending on your itinerary.

Arrival Tips at Kathmandu Airport (TIA)

Landing at Tribhuvan International Airport can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially for first-time visitors. Upon arrival, head to the Visa on Arrival section (if not pre-applied), complete the immigration process, and collect your baggage. Baggage claim and customs are typically smooth, but delays can happen during peak hours.

Have your hotel name, local contact, and airport transfer details handy. If you haven't booked airport pickup in advance, you’ll find a taxi counter just outside the terminal. It’s advisable to exchange currency at the airport, as ATMs can be unreliable or charge high fees.

Packing Tips for International Flights to Nepal

Packing for your trip to Nepal depends on the season and type of travel. For trekking, bring layered clothing, sturdy hiking boots, and essentials like a sleeping bag and headlamp. For general travel, pack lightweight clothes, a warm jacket (especially in winter), a reusable water bottle, and a universal adapter.

Make sure to check your airline’s luggage restrictions to avoid extra fees. For most international flights, economy passengers are allowed 1 checked bag (23 kg) and 1 carry-on (7–10 kg). Pack necessary medications, power banks, and travel documents in your carry-on to keep them accessible.

Need Help Booking Your Flight to Nepal?

Planning a trip to Nepal and not sure where to start? At Himalayan Dream Team, we offer personalized travel support to help you book the best flights to Kathmandu and beyond. Whether you're heading to the Himalayas for a trekking adventure, exploring spiritual sites in Lumbini, or joining a cultural tour, our experienced team is here to make your journey smooth and hassle-free.

We’ll help you compare flight routes, prices, and schedules based on your preferences and location. With access to the latest travel updates and airline deals, we ensure you get the most convenient and cost-effective options.

👉 Reach out to us anytime for expert assistance in planning your perfect trip to Nepal—we’re just a message away.