International Flights to Nepal: Airlines, Airports & Best Routes to Kathmandu and Pokhara

Planning a trip to Nepal begins with one important question: how do you fly to Nepal? Whether you are travelling from Europe, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Australia, India, Malaysia, the Middle East or elsewhere in Asia, Nepal is connected to the world through a growing network of international airlines and regional aviation hubs.

Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu remains Nepal's main international gateway and receives the majority of international visitors. Nepal also has Gautam Buddha International Airport (BWA) in the Lumbini region and Pokhara International Airport (PHH), providing additional options for international travellers.

An important development for visitors to western Nepal is the introduction of daily direct Dubai–Pokhara flights. Scheduled flydubai services between Dubai and Pokhara began on 23 September 2026, creating a convenient international gateway for travellers heading directly towards Pokhara and the Annapurna region.

This complete International Flights to Nepal guide by Himalayan Dream Team explains Nepal's international airports, airlines flying to Nepal, direct routes to Kathmandu and Pokhara, the best transit airports, flights from different regions of the world, Nepal visa information, baggage considerations and practical tips for booking your journey.

Important: International airline routes, schedules and frequencies change regularly. Always confirm your exact flight schedule directly with the airline before purchasing tickets or arranging connecting domestic flights.

International Flights to Nepal at a Glance

Travel InformationDetails
CountryNepal
Main International GatewayTribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu
Kathmandu Airport CodeKTM
Pokhara International AirportPokhara International Airport
Pokhara Airport CodePHH
Lumbini Region AirportGautam Buddha International Airport, Bhairahawa
Bhairahawa Airport CodeBWA
National Flag CarrierNepal Airlines
Major International Transit HubsDoha, Dubai, Istanbul, Delhi, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore and other Asian hubs
Visa on ArrivalAvailable to eligible nationalities; restrictions apply to certain passport holders
Official Flight ScheduleCivil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN)

How Do You Fly to Nepal?

For most international travellers, the easiest way to reach Nepal is to fly into Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu.

Kathmandu has direct international connections with major aviation hubs across:

  • India
  • United Arab Emirates
  • Qatar
  • Kuwait
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Turkey
  • Thailand
  • Malaysia
  • Singapore
  • China
  • Hong Kong
  • South Korea
  • Japan
  • Bangladesh
  • Sri Lanka
  • Bhutan

Travellers from countries without direct services normally reach Nepal with one connecting flight through one of these major hubs.

International Airports in Nepal

Nepal currently has three international airports recognised by the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal:

AirportCodeLocationUseful For
Tribhuvan International AirportKTMKathmanduKathmandu Valley, Everest region, central Nepal and most international arrivals
Pokhara International AirportPHHPokharaPokhara, Annapurna, Mustang and western Nepal
Gautam Buddha International AirportBWABhairahawa / RupandehiLumbini and southern/western Nepal

Tribhuvan International Airport – Kathmandu (KTM)

Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) is Nepal's principal international airport and remains the most important entry point for travellers arriving from overseas.

The airport is located in Kathmandu and is particularly convenient for travellers beginning:

  • Kathmandu cultural tours
  • Everest Base Camp treks
  • Everest region journeys
  • Langtang treks
  • Manaslu Circuit treks
  • Annapurna journeys beginning via Kathmandu
  • Bhutan extensions
  • Tibet journeys where permitted and operational
  • General Nepal tours

International and domestic terminals operate from the same airport complex, but travellers connecting to a domestic flight should allow sufficient time for immigration, baggage collection, customs and transfer to the domestic terminal.

Pokhara International Airport (PHH)

Pokhara International Airport serves Nepal's main tourism city and provides direct access to one of the country's most important adventure regions.

Pokhara is the gateway for journeys including:

  • Annapurna Base Camp Trek
  • Annapurna Circuit Trek
  • Mardi Himal Trek
  • Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
  • Upper Mustang
  • Jomsom and Lower Mustang
  • Pokhara tours
  • Paragliding and outdoor activities

A major development occurred on 23 September 2026, when flydubai began scheduled daily flights between Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Pokhara International Airport (PHH).

The Dubai connection is especially useful because Dubai is one of the world's major aviation hubs. Through flydubai's partnership with Emirates, travellers from many international destinations can now consider travelling to western Nepal through Dubai and Pokhara rather than automatically entering through Kathmandu.

Schedules can change, so always confirm the current service directly with the airline before planning an itinerary around an international Pokhara arrival.

Gautam Buddha International Airport – Bhairahawa (BWA)

Gautam Buddha International Airport (BWA) is located in Rupandehi District near Bhairahawa and provides international airport access for the Lumbini region.

The airport is particularly convenient for travellers whose main destination is Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, as well as parts of southern and western Nepal.

International operations at Gautam Buddha International Airport have changed over time, and route availability may be more limited than Kathmandu. Travellers should therefore check current schedules before planning BWA as their international entry or departure airport.

Which Is the Main International Airport in Nepal?

Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu remains Nepal's main international airport.

It offers the broadest range of international airlines and direct routes and remains the most practical gateway for most visitors.

However, travellers heading primarily to Pokhara, Annapurna or Mustang should now also check international connections through Pokhara International Airport, particularly the Dubai–Pokhara service.

Airlines Flying Internationally to Nepal

According to current Nepal aviation schedules, numerous international and Nepal-based airlines operate international services to and from Nepal.

Airlines appearing in Nepal's current international aviation network include:

AirlineMain Nepal Connection / Region
Nepal AirlinesIndia, Gulf, Southeast Asia, East Asia and Japan routes
Himalaya AirlinesRegional Asian and Middle Eastern routes
Qatar AirwaysDoha–Kathmandu
flydubaiDubai–Kathmandu and Dubai–Pokhara
Turkish AirlinesIstanbul–Kathmandu
Air ArabiaUAE–Nepal services
Air IndiaIndia–Kathmandu
Air India ExpressIndia–Nepal services
IndiGoIndia–Kathmandu
SpiceJetIndia–Nepal services where scheduled
Thai AirwaysBangkok–Kathmandu
Thai AirAsiaThailand–Nepal services
Thai Lion AirThailand–Nepal services
Singapore AirlinesSingapore–Kathmandu
Malaysia AirlinesKuala Lumpur–Kathmandu
Batik AirKuala Lumpur–Kathmandu
Air ChinaChina–Kathmandu
China Eastern AirlinesChina–Kathmandu
China Southern AirlinesChina–Kathmandu
Sichuan AirlinesChina–Kathmandu
Cathay PacificHong Kong–Kathmandu
Korean AirSeoul–Kathmandu
Biman Bangladesh AirlinesDhaka–Kathmandu
SriLankan AirlinesSri Lanka–Kathmandu
DrukairBhutan–Nepal regional services
Bhutan AirlinesBhutan–Nepal regional services
Jazeera AirwaysKuwait–Nepal services
Kuwait AirwaysKuwait–Nepal services

This list is intended as a travel-planning overview rather than a fixed timetable. Airlines, destinations and frequencies can change seasonally or operationally.

Nepal Airlines – Nepal's National Flag Carrier

Nepal Airlines is Nepal's national flag carrier and operates international services from Kathmandu.

Its current international network includes destinations such as:

  • Delhi
  • Mumbai
  • Bengaluru
  • Doha
  • Dubai
  • Dammam
  • Bangkok
  • Kuala Lumpur
  • Hong Kong
  • Guangzhou
  • Narita / Tokyo region

Routes and operating days vary, so travellers should check the current Nepal Airlines schedule when planning their journey.

Best International Transit Hubs for Flights to Nepal

Travellers coming from countries without direct flights to Nepal normally connect through a major international hub.

Transit HubUseful For Travellers FromTypical Nepal Connection
DohaEurope, UK, North America, Middle East, AfricaKathmandu
DubaiEurope, UK, North America, Middle East, Africa and worldwide connectionsKathmandu and Pokhara
IstanbulEurope, UK and surrounding regionsKathmandu
DelhiIndia, Europe and international connectionsKathmandu
BangkokSoutheast Asia, East Asia and Australia connectionsKathmandu
Kuala LumpurMalaysia, Southeast Asia and Australia connectionsKathmandu
SingaporeAustralia, New Zealand and AsiaKathmandu
Hong KongEast Asia and international connectionsKathmandu
SeoulSouth Korea and East Asian connectionsKathmandu
Chinese HubsChina and connecting international marketsKathmandu

Direct Flights to Nepal

A direct or nonstop flight to Nepal is available from numerous cities in Asia, the Middle East and Istanbul.

However, there are currently no regular nonstop passenger flights connecting Kathmandu directly with many major cities in Western Europe, North America or Australia.

Travellers from these regions normally make one convenient connection through an international hub.

Flights from Europe to Nepal

Travellers searching for flights from Europe to Nepal generally have several convenient one-stop options.

Common connection patterns include:

  • Europe → Istanbul → Kathmandu
  • Europe → Doha → Kathmandu
  • Europe → Dubai → Kathmandu
  • Europe → Dubai → Pokhara
  • Europe → Delhi → Kathmandu

Istanbul is particularly notable because Turkish Airlines operates between Istanbul and Kathmandu, providing connections from many European cities.

Gulf hubs such as Doha and Dubai are also convenient because of their extensive European networks.

Flights from the UK to Nepal

Travellers searching for flights from London or the UK to Nepal normally travel with one stop.

Common routes include:

  • London → Doha → Kathmandu
  • London → Dubai → Kathmandu
  • London → Dubai → Pokhara
  • London → Istanbul → Kathmandu
  • London → Delhi → Kathmandu

There is normally no need to purchase separate tickets when a suitable through itinerary is available. A single-ticket connection can simplify baggage transfer and provide better protection if the first flight is delayed.

Flights from the Netherlands and Belgium to Nepal

Travellers from the Netherlands and Belgium usually reach Nepal with one international connection.

Popular routing possibilities include:

  • Amsterdam → Doha → Kathmandu
  • Amsterdam → Dubai → Kathmandu or Pokhara
  • Amsterdam → Istanbul → Kathmandu
  • Brussels → Doha → Kathmandu
  • Brussels → Dubai → Kathmandu or Pokhara
  • Brussels → Istanbul → Kathmandu

Travellers joining a Himalayan Dream Team trek or tour should share their final flight details with us so that airport pickup can be coordinated with the confirmed arrival schedule.

Flights from Germany, France, Switzerland and Other European Countries

Most travellers from continental Europe can reach Nepal with one connection through Istanbul, Doha, Dubai, Delhi or another major Asian hub.

When comparing flights, consider the complete journey rather than only the ticket price. A slightly more expensive itinerary with a comfortable connection can be preferable to a cheaper journey involving separate tickets or an overnight airport transfer.

Flights from the USA to Nepal

There are generally no nonstop commercial passenger flights from the United States to Nepal.

Travellers from cities such as New York, Washington DC, Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Dallas, Boston or Seattle normally make at least one international connection.

Common routing patterns include:

  • USA → Doha → Kathmandu
  • USA → Dubai → Kathmandu
  • USA → Dubai → Pokhara
  • USA → Istanbul → Kathmandu
  • USA → Delhi → Kathmandu
  • USA → major East Asian hub → Kathmandu

For long-haul travel, pay close attention to total journey time, transit requirements, baggage allowances and whether all flights are issued on one ticket.

Flights from Canada to Nepal

Travellers from Canada normally reach Nepal with at least one connection.

Depending on departure city and airline availability, useful hubs can include:

  • Doha
  • Dubai
  • Istanbul
  • Delhi
  • Asian gateway cities

Travellers from Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal and other Canadian cities should compare both Kathmandu and, where suitable, Pokhara arrival options.

Flights from Australia to Nepal

There are generally no regular nonstop passenger flights between Australia and Nepal, so travellers normally connect through Southeast Asia, the Gulf or India.

Common routing possibilities include:

  • Sydney / Melbourne / Brisbane → Singapore → Kathmandu
  • Australia → Kuala Lumpur → Kathmandu
  • Australia → Bangkok → Kathmandu
  • Australia → Doha → Kathmandu
  • Australia → Dubai → Kathmandu or Pokhara
  • Australia → Delhi → Kathmandu

Singapore and Kuala Lumpur can be convenient for many Australian travellers because of their extensive connections with major Australian cities.

Flights from New Zealand to Nepal

Travellers from New Zealand normally require one or more connections to reach Nepal.

Possible routings include travel through Australia followed by Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Doha or Dubai.

Because total journey times can be long, a comfortable transit window is particularly important.

Flights from India to Nepal

India has some of the strongest international air connections with Nepal.

Delhi is one of the most important gateways, with services operated by several airlines. Other Indian cities may also have direct Nepal connections depending on current schedules.

Current Nepal Airlines services include connections involving cities such as:

  • Delhi
  • Mumbai
  • Bengaluru

Indian and other airlines also operate routes between India and Kathmandu.

Because schedules change, travellers should check their exact departure city rather than assuming that every Indian gateway operates daily.

Flights from Malaysia to Nepal

Kuala Lumpur–Kathmandu is an important international route, particularly for travellers from Malaysia and Southeast Asia.

Airlines operating within this market include Nepalese and Malaysian carriers depending on the current schedule.

Kuala Lumpur also serves as a useful transit point for travellers connecting from other parts of Southeast Asia and Australia.

Flights from Singapore to Nepal

Singapore provides an important direct air connection with Kathmandu and is a useful transit hub for travellers coming from:

  • Australia
  • New Zealand
  • Southeast Asia
  • East Asia

Travellers booking through Singapore should compare connection times and baggage rules, especially when combining different airlines.

Flights from Thailand to Nepal

Bangkok is one of Southeast Asia's important gateways to Nepal.

Current international schedules include Thai carriers operating Nepal services, while Nepal Airlines also serves Bangkok according to its current schedule.

Bangkok can therefore be a convenient transit point for travellers combining Nepal with Thailand or other Southeast Asian countries.

Flights from China to Nepal

Nepal has air connections with several Chinese cities through Nepalese and Chinese carriers.

Current aviation networks include services associated with cities such as:

  • Guangzhou
  • Chengdu
  • Kunming
  • Shenzhen

In June 2026, Himalaya Airlines also launched scheduled flights between Kathmandu and Shenzhen, expanding direct connectivity between Nepal and China.

Routes between Nepal and China can change, so travellers should confirm the latest operating schedule before booking.

Flights from Japan to Nepal

Nepal Airlines currently operates services between Kathmandu and Narita, Japan, according to its published international schedule.

Travellers from other Japanese cities can connect domestically or through another international hub depending on fare and schedule availability.

Flights from South Korea to Nepal

Korean Air is included in Nepal's current international airline schedule, providing an important connection between South Korea and Kathmandu.

Seoul can also serve as a connection point for travellers coming from elsewhere in East Asia or North America, depending on ticket availability.

Flights from the Middle East to Nepal

Nepal has particularly strong aviation connections with the Gulf and wider Middle East.

Important gateways include:

  • Doha
  • Dubai
  • Sharjah
  • Abu Dhabi
  • Kuwait
  • Dammam

These routes are useful not only for travellers living in the Middle East but also for passengers connecting from Europe, Africa and North America.

Dubai to Nepal Flights

Dubai has become one of the most useful global gateways for travel to Nepal.

Travellers can now consider two important Nepal arrival options:

  • Dubai → Kathmandu
  • Dubai → Pokhara

The introduction of scheduled Dubai–Pokhara flights is particularly useful for travellers whose main destination is Pokhara, the Annapurna region or western Nepal.

Do I Need to Fly to Kathmandu to Visit Pokhara?

Not always.

Historically, most international travellers first arrived in Kathmandu and then travelled to Pokhara by domestic flight or road.

Since 23 September 2026, scheduled daily flydubai services connect Dubai directly with Pokhara.

This means travellers who can connect conveniently through Dubai may now be able to arrive directly in Pokhara without first passing through Kathmandu.

This can be particularly useful for travellers joining an Annapurna, Mardi Himal, Poon Hill or Mustang journey.

Kathmandu or Pokhara: Which Airport Should You Choose?

Your Nepal TripMost Practical International Gateway to Check
Kathmandu Valley TourKathmandu (KTM)
Everest Base Camp TrekKathmandu (KTM)
Langtang TrekKathmandu (KTM)
Manaslu CircuitKathmandu (KTM)
Annapurna Base CampCompare Kathmandu (KTM) and Pokhara (PHH)
Mardi HimalCompare Kathmandu (KTM) and Pokhara (PHH)
Poon HillCompare Kathmandu (KTM) and Pokhara (PHH)
Upper MustangCompare Kathmandu (KTM) and Pokhara (PHH)
Pokhara HolidayPokhara (PHH) where a suitable international connection exists
LumbiniCheck Gautam Buddha International Airport (BWA) as well as Kathmandu
Complete Nepal TourKathmandu is generally the most flexible gateway

How to Find Cheap Flights to Nepal

Airfares to Nepal vary considerably according to departure country, airline, travel season, booking date and connection.

These practical strategies can help when searching for affordable international flights to Nepal:

  • Compare several departure dates.
  • Search both weekday and weekend departures.
  • Compare Kathmandu and Pokhara when appropriate.
  • Check Doha, Dubai, Istanbul, Delhi, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore connections.
  • Compare the complete fare including checked baggage.
  • Check whether airport changes are required during transit.
  • Prefer through tickets when possible.
  • Book early for the main trekking seasons.
  • Check ticket change and cancellation conditions.
  • Allow flexibility around major festivals and holiday periods.

The cheapest ticket is not necessarily the best ticket. Very long layovers, separate tickets, baggage charges or difficult transit arrangements can make a slightly cheaper fare less practical.

Best Time to Book Flights to Nepal

International demand for Nepal generally increases around the main tourism and trekking seasons, particularly spring and autumn.

If your travel dates are fixed, booking international flights well in advance can provide a wider choice of schedules and fares.

Travellers visiting during major holiday periods, trekking seasons or festivals should avoid leaving international flight arrangements until the last moment.

One Ticket or Separate Tickets?

Where possible, booking connecting flights on one ticket can make international travel to Nepal easier.

Potential advantages include:

  • Through-checked baggage where supported
  • Better assistance if an earlier flight is delayed
  • Less risk of missing an independently booked connection
  • Simpler check-in
  • Clearer baggage allowance

If you book separate tickets, allow a generous connection time and check whether you need to collect luggage, clear immigration or change terminals.

Baggage Allowance for Flights to Nepal

There is no single baggage allowance for all international flights to Nepal.

Your baggage allowance depends on:

  • Airline
  • Ticket class
  • Fare type
  • Route
  • Frequent-flyer status

Do not assume that every economy ticket includes a 23 kg checked bag. Some lower-cost fares may include less baggage or no checked baggage at all.

Always check the baggage allowance printed on your confirmed ticket.

International Flight vs Domestic Flight Baggage

This is particularly important for trekkers.

Your international flight may allow significantly more baggage than a domestic mountain flight in Nepal.

Domestic flights to destinations such as Lukla or Jomsom can have much stricter weight limits.

If your Nepal itinerary includes a mountain flight, check the domestic baggage rules separately rather than assuming your international allowance applies.

Nepal Tourist Visa on Arrival

Nepal provides Tourist Visa on Arrival facilities to eligible international visitors arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport.

According to Nepal's Department of Immigration, current tourist visa fees are:

Tourist VisaCurrent Fee
15 Days – Multiple EntryUSD 30
30 Days – Multiple EntryUSD 50
90 Days – Multiple EntryUSD 125

Eligible travellers can complete the relevant application through the official Nepal Department of Immigration online portal.

Visa rules differ for some nationalities. Certain passport holders are required to obtain a visa before travelling rather than receiving Visa on Arrival.

For detailed information, see Himalayan Dream Team's Nepal Visa Guide and always confirm the latest requirements with the Nepal Department of Immigration before travelling.

Passport Requirements for Nepal

International travellers should ensure that their passport satisfies Nepal's current immigration requirements before departure.

The Nepal Department of Immigration advises travellers to have a passport with sufficient validity for travel to Nepal. Visa and passport requirements can vary according to nationality and immigration status.

Always check official requirements before purchasing a non-refundable international ticket.

Arrival at Kathmandu Airport

After landing at Tribhuvan International Airport, international travellers normally proceed through:

  1. Arrival and immigration / visa procedures
  2. Passport control
  3. Baggage collection
  4. Customs
  5. Arrival hall

Travellers booked with Himalayan Dream Team can be met by our representative according to the airport-transfer arrangements included in their itinerary.

Connecting from an International Flight to a Domestic Flight in Nepal

If your journey continues from Kathmandu on a domestic flight, avoid planning an extremely tight connection.

You may need time for:

  • Immigration
  • Visa processing
  • Baggage collection
  • Customs
  • Moving to the domestic terminal
  • Domestic check-in
  • Possible international flight delays

For mountain destinations, weather can also affect domestic flight operations.

Flying to Nepal for the Everest Base Camp Trek

International travellers joining an Everest Base Camp Trek should normally fly into Kathmandu (KTM).

From Kathmandu, the Everest region is reached through the appropriate domestic flight and road arrangements according to the season and current aviation operations.

Because weather can affect Himalayan flights, it is sensible to keep some flexibility around international departure dates.

Flying to Nepal for the Annapurna Region

Travellers visiting the Annapurna region have more international travel options than before.

You can:

  • Fly internationally to Kathmandu and continue to Pokhara by domestic flight or road; or
  • Check whether a suitable international connection allows you to fly directly to Pokhara.

The second option became particularly important after the launch of scheduled Dubai–Pokhara services in September 2026.

Pokhara is the main gateway for the Annapurna trekking region.

Flying to Nepal for Upper Mustang

Most Upper Mustang Trek itineraries eventually pass through Pokhara and Jomsom.

International travellers can therefore compare:

  • International arrival in Kathmandu followed by travel to Pokhara; or
  • International arrival directly in Pokhara where a suitable route is available.

International arrival in Pokhara may simplify some western Nepal itineraries, but permit preparation and other Nepal arrangements should still be coordinated before departure.

Flying to Nepal for Lumbini

Travellers primarily interested in Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, should check current international services at Gautam Buddha International Airport (BWA).

Alternatively, travellers can enter Nepal through Kathmandu and continue to Lumbini by domestic flight or road.

International Flights and Nepal Trekking Seasons

International flight demand can increase during Nepal's main trekking seasons.

PeriodTravel CharacterFlight Planning
March–MayPopular spring trekking seasonBook early when dates are fixed
June–AugustSummer / monsoon; suitable for selected destinations such as Upper MustangAllow flexibility for weather-related domestic connections
September–NovemberVery popular autumn trekking and touring periodEarly international booking is recommended
December–FebruaryWinter travel with colder mountain conditionsInternational fares vary around holiday periods

Important Tips Before Booking International Flights to Nepal

  • Check that the name on your ticket exactly matches your passport.
  • Confirm passport and Nepal visa requirements.
  • Check baggage allowance before paying.
  • Check transit visa requirements for your connecting country.
  • Avoid excessively short international connections.
  • Check whether your baggage is transferred automatically.
  • Allow extra time if using separate tickets.
  • Keep essential medication in your hand luggage.
  • Keep travel documents accessible during transit.
  • Check domestic baggage limits separately.
  • Consider weather flexibility for Himalayan domestic flights.
  • Reconfirm schedules before departure.

Frequently Asked Questions About International Flights to Nepal

What is the main international airport in Nepal?

Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu is Nepal's main international gateway and handles the widest range of international airlines and routes.

How many international airports are there in Nepal?

Nepal has three international airports: Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, Gautam Buddha International Airport in Bhairahawa/Rupandehi and Pokhara International Airport.

Which airlines fly to Nepal?

Nepal's international aviation network includes airlines such as Nepal Airlines, Himalaya Airlines, Qatar Airways, flydubai, Turkish Airlines, Air Arabia, Air India, IndiGo, Thai Airways, Singapore Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, Batik Air, Korean Air, Cathay Pacific and several Chinese, regional and Gulf carriers. The exact list changes according to the current flight schedule.

Are there direct flights to Nepal from Europe?

Istanbul provides a direct air connection with Kathmandu through Turkish Airlines. Travellers from many other European cities normally connect through Istanbul, Doha, Dubai, Delhi or another major international hub.

Are there direct flights from London to Nepal?

Travellers from London normally reach Nepal with one connection, commonly through Doha, Dubai, Istanbul or another major hub.

Are there direct flights from the USA to Nepal?

There are generally no nonstop commercial passenger services from the United States to Nepal. Most travellers connect through Doha, Dubai, Istanbul, Delhi or an Asian hub.

Are there direct flights from Australia to Nepal?

Regular nonstop services are generally not available. Australian travellers commonly connect through Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Doha, Dubai or India.

Are there direct international flights to Pokhara?

Yes. Scheduled daily Dubai–Pokhara flights began on 23 September 2026, providing direct international access to Pokhara from Dubai.

Can I fly directly to Pokhara instead of Kathmandu?

Yes, if your international itinerary connects with an operating direct Pokhara service. Travellers connecting through Dubai should compare direct Pokhara flights with Kathmandu options.

Which airport is best for the Annapurna region?

Pokhara is the main gateway to the Annapurna region. International travellers can either arrive through Kathmandu and continue to Pokhara or check direct international Pokhara connections where available.

Which airport is best for Everest Base Camp?

Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu is the normal international gateway for Everest Base Camp travellers.

Which airport is closest to Lumbini?

Gautam Buddha International Airport (BWA) near Bhairahawa is the international airport serving the Lumbini region.

Does Nepal Airlines fly internationally?

Yes. Nepal Airlines is Nepal's national flag carrier and operates international services from Kathmandu to destinations in India, the Gulf, Southeast Asia, East Asia and Japan according to its current schedule.

Can I get a Nepal visa at Kathmandu airport?

Eligible nationalities can obtain a Tourist Visa on Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport. Certain nationalities must arrange a visa before travel, so check the current Department of Immigration requirements for your passport.

How much is the Nepal Visa on Arrival?

Current Tourist Visa on Arrival fees are USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days and USD 125 for 90 days.

When should I book my flight to Nepal?

If you are travelling during the popular spring or autumn trekking seasons, booking early generally provides more choice of schedules and fares. Travellers with fixed trekking dates should avoid leaving international flights until the last moment.

What are the best airports for connecting to Nepal?

Useful international transit hubs include Doha, Dubai, Istanbul, Delhi, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. The best connection depends on your departure city, fare, airline and final destination in Nepal.

Should I book my international flight and Nepal domestic flight on the same day?

This depends on the arrival time and destination. International arrivals require immigration, baggage collection and customs, while domestic mountain flights can be weather-sensitive. A generous connection or overnight stay may be safer for some itineraries.

Can international flights to Nepal be delayed?

Yes. As with aviation anywhere in the world, flights can be delayed or cancelled because of weather, operational issues, air traffic or other factors. Domestic mountain flights in Nepal can be particularly sensitive to weather and visibility.

Start Your Nepal Journey with Himalayan Dream Team

Your journey to Nepal begins long before you reach the mountains. Choosing a practical international flight, allowing sufficient connection time and matching your arrival airport with your Nepal itinerary can make the beginning of your holiday considerably easier.

Himalayan Dream Team can assist travellers with the Nepal side of their journey, including:

  • Airport pickup and departure transfers
  • Kathmandu accommodation
  • Pokhara travel arrangements
  • Domestic flight coordination
  • Private transportation
  • Trekking permits
  • Licensed trekking and cultural guides
  • Nepal trekking programs
  • Cultural tours
  • Wildlife tours
  • Bhutan extensions
  • Customized Nepal itineraries

First-time visitors who want to experience several parts of the country can explore our Best of Nepal Tour – Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan & Lumbini.

Trekkers heading towards western Nepal can explore our Annapurna Region Treks, while travellers interested in the remote Trans-Himalayan region can read our Upper Mustang Travel Guide.

Conclusion: Flying to Nepal from Anywhere in the World

International flights to Nepal connect the Himalayan country with a growing network of cities across Asia, the Middle East and beyond.

For most visitors, Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport remains the easiest and most flexible gateway. Travellers from Europe, the UK, the USA, Canada and Australia can normally reach Kathmandu with one convenient connection through hubs such as Doha, Dubai, Istanbul, Delhi, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur or Singapore.

Nepal's international connectivity is also evolving. The launch of scheduled Dubai–Pokhara flights in September 2026 gives travellers a new way to reach Pokhara, the Annapurna region and western Nepal without necessarily travelling through Kathmandu first.

Whichever route you choose, compare the complete journey rather than only the airfare. Consider baggage allowance, connection time, transit requirements, arrival airport, Nepal visa requirements and the location where your Nepal itinerary begins.

Once your international flight is confirmed, Himalayan Dream Team can coordinate your airport arrival and the onward arrangements for your trek, tour or Himalayan journey.

Flight routes and schedules are subject to change. Always verify the latest operating schedule with your airline and the relevant aviation authorities before travelling.