Major airports in Nepal: gateways for exciting trekking and tours in Nepal

Nepal is a landlocked country as it is not surrounded by sea from any side but is covered by huge snow-capped mountains. This means that lots of people rely on roadways and airways for traveling. Even without the waterway facilities available in Nepal, there are lots of safest modes to travel!

In Nepal, roads are the most popular means of transportation for people. There are a lot of roads that link various locations, which facilitates safe travel. But, traveling through roads in Nepal can take a lot of time.

Additionally, airways are becoming a more popular means of transport! Despite not being near the seas or oceans, Nepal is home to 47 operational and non-operational airports. These airports are like special gateways that help connect people in remote places within the country.

Now, let’s talk about some important airports that have long helped people travel faster:

Major International and Domestic Airports in Nepal

1. Tribhuvan International Airport- the first-built airport in Nepal

Tribhuvan International Airport is located 5 km away from the middle of the main city, Kathmandu, which is also known as the first airport in Nepal. It is the gateway to the exciting Himalayas which ends up in seven UNESCO cultural heritage sites. Kathmandu is very rich in history, art, and culture, which makes it a popular travel destination.

The airport was inaugurated by King Mahendra of Nepal in 1955 and was first named Gaucharan Airport. In 1964, Tribhuvan International Airport was named in honor of King Mahendra King’s father. The airport has flights to various trekking destinations in Nepal and other countries to Asia and the Middle East.

Several interesting hiking trails start from this airport, taking you to the stunning Himalayas. Among many trekking locations along with Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circle and Langtang Valley, trekkers often choose Kathmandu as their first hiking spot.

2. Tenzing-Hillary Airport- The most dangerous airport in the world

Lukla Airport is known to be risky due to its area and unpredictable climate. Located in the Solukhumbu, it’s been in operation since 1964. However, it received a raised concrete landing in 2001. Originally known as Lukla Airport, it was later renamed Tenzing Hillary Airport to reflect the recognitions of Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay.

Lukla Airport is widely recognized, particularly among individuals aspiring to conquer Everest. It stands as one of Nepal’s premier local airports. The airport is identified by the codes LUA (IATA) and VNLK (ICAO).

The runway is 527 meters long and 20 meters wide. Airlines like Tara Air, Summit Air, Sita Air, and Nepal Airlines mainly Tara Air and Summit Air fly to Kathmandu from Lukla. Lukla Airport is the gateway for trekkers beginning their journey to Everest Base Camp!

If you are a journey-lover, flying to Lukla is the first adventure to Everest. The airport is a hub for airlines, making it a hectic destination spot for those eager to feel the beauty of the Himalayas. So, in case you’re set for an adventure, Lukla Airport is your go-to place to reach Everest!

3. Pokhara Airport – The busiest new International airport in Nepal

Pokhara Airport in Nepal is a famous destination for tourists who need to explore the Pokhara vicinity. Known as the second largest city in the nation, Pokhara is popular for tourists determined to trek in the majestic Annapurna mountain variety.

Often referred to as the traveler airport in Nepal, it is operated by the Nepal Civil Aviation Authority, which gives flights connecting Kathmandu and Jomsom, in addition to a route to Manang. Despite being smaller in length compared to different airports in the vicinity, Pokhara Airport can accommodate eight propeller aircraft at a time.

Since it acts as an alternative to Kathmandu Airport in bad weather situations, Pokhara Airport plays a vital role in reducing flight visitors at Tribhuvan International Airport. For those seeking to stay close by, there are various lodge options to select from, which include Hotel Norling, Hikers Inn Lukla, Lukla Numbur Hotel, and more.

These accommodations offer a convenient and comfortable stay for travelers passing through Pokhara Airport. Also, many cool places like Phewa Lake in Pokhara, Davis River, Old Bazaar, and Jangchub Choeling Gompa are close to the airport. Pokhara is an amazing place to begin trekking in the Annapurna Circuit and the Poon Hill region.

These trails provide surprising scenes of the Himalayas and a golden opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and revel in the wealthy subculture of Nepal. So, in case you like to discover, Pokhara Airport is the gateway to an unforgettable journey!

4. Nepalgunj Airport- the gateway to the special terrains of Nepal

Nepalgunj Airport is a civil airport serving Nepalgunj, Nepal. Located in the Banke district, it is simply five km far from the metropolitan city. The airport has a runway length of 1505 meters and a width of 30 meters. It operates Nepal’s main domestic airlines. This consists of Buddha Airlines, Yeti Airlines, Tara Airlines, Shree Airlines, Saurya Airlines, Sita Airlines, Summit Airlines, and Nepal Airlines from all over. People use the airport for regular or scheduled flights to places like Kathmandu and Pokhara. The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) operates the airport.

Nepalgunj Airport is located with frequent flights. 16 airports in the Far West & Lumbini districts. It is close to the India-Nepal border, Bageshwari Temple, Banke National Park, Ghaghra river, and other cool places. Locals and tourists move to the airport from places like Jumla, Simikot, Rara, Dolpa, Bajura, Sanfebagar, Salle, and Kathmandu.

The airport is an asset to Nepal’s economy and tourism. It is an important destination in Nepal’s tourism industry and offers a major destination place for Indian pilgrims visiting Kailash Mansarovar in Tibet. Nepalgunj serves as a starting point for exploring nearby natures. From this airport, trekking trails can take you to lovely terrains and culture-rich destinations.

5. Jomsom Airport – The most pleasing airport in Nepal

Jomsom Airport is a civil airport located in Mustang, Gandaki District, Nepal. It serves as the main gateway to the Upper Mustang region and is the only airport in the region. The airport sits at a very high elevation at 2736 meters or 8976 feet. The airport has a runway 810 meters long and 20 meters broad, all protected with asphalt.

It is designed for light planes and is utilized by Tara Air and Summit Air. Located on a hillside, Jomsom Airport is susceptible to high winds and severe climate conditions, which make flights difficult.

Located on a hillside, Jomsom Airport is at risk of high winds and intense weather situations, which make flight operations difficult. The airport is located in a rural mountainous region, near the Tibetan border. The Nepal Army is there to keep things safe.

Despite its challenges, Jomsom Airport is essential for access to the Mustang region. The Mustang area has a unique culture and landscape that many people want to explore. And if you love to travel, Jomsom is like the starting point for amazing adventures.

Departing from this airport, pathways for trekking lead to exquisite destinations in the Mustang area, providing numerous cultural encounters and exciting scenery. Therefore, in case you are ready to experience beautiful scenery, Jomsom Airport is the starting point for beginning your journey inside the Mustang area!

The airport code is JMO, and the altitude is 2736 meters. In aviation terms, it is also known as VNJS.

6. Simikot Airport- One of the most beautiful airports in Nepal

Simikot airport is not the busiest, but it is super nice! It is located in the Humla district, one of the most isolated places in Nepal. Even if it’s not crazy busy, it’s a big deal for tourists because it’s the starting point for a trek to Mount Kailash in Tibet. Currently, there are only a few flights from Nepalgunj Airport to Simikot.

Simikot Airport has IMK (IATA) and VNST (ICAO) and rises to an altitude of 2818 meters. It is the only way people can get in and out of this remote area as there are no roads connecting it with Nepal and other countries together.

This airport is special as it takes you from the flat plains of the Terai to the mountains of Nepal in no time. The runway at Simikot is 549 meters long and 20 meters wide. For those who like to hike, Simikot Airport is where your trip begins. It is the gateway hike to Mount Kailash, the famous trekking route in Tibet.

So, if you are seeking out stunning views and unique places to travel, Simikot Airport is the place to begin! And in case you are there, you may use airways like Sita Air, Tara Air, Summit Air, and Nepal Airlines.

7. Bharatpur Airport – Gateway to the exciting wilds of Nepal

Bharatpur Airport is a public airport located in Bharatpur, Chitwan district in Nepal. The airport started in 1961 and is successful in operating in all weather. Its runway is 1200 meters long and 30 meters wide, suitable for small planes. The airport has a big transit terminal.

Several regional airlines, including Buddha Airlines and Yeti Airlines to and from Bharatpur Airport. From Kathmandu, it offers very quick modes to go to Chitwan, a popular tourist destination with places like Chitwan National Park. The airport code is BHR, and also known as VNBP in aviation terms.

For journey lovers, Bharatpur is well-connected and serves as a superb journey point for exploring nearby places. From this airport, several hiking trails can take you to beautiful terrains and cultural sites. So, whether you are flying or making plans for an enjoyable trip, Bharatpur Airport is the place to begin your adventure!

8. Gautam Buddha International Airport – New International Airport of Nepal

The another new international airport in Nepal catering to numerous passengers traveling in and around Bhairahawa. Prior to its inauguration, travelers ought to travel the 270 km distance from Tribhuvan International Airport.

The recently inaugurated airport in 2022 has offered a more convenient journey alternative for travelers who used to go to Birgunj or Kathmandu for their flights. Acting as a main gateway for both foreign and local guests, the airport is also enticing in tourists from different regions of Nepal.

For travel enthusiasts, this airport serves as the starting point for exploring the surrounding regions. From right here, hiking trails take you to the scenic views and give you a flavor of the precise subculture of Nepal.

The airport code is BWA, also referred to as VNBW in aviation terms. So, whether you’re flying or making plans for an experience, Gautam Buddha International Airport is ready to welcome you!

9. Talcha Airport – The scariest airport in the world

Talcha Airport (Rara Airport) is the gateway for tourists who want to experience the wonders of the region. Popular as one of the most dangerous airports in the world at an altitude of 2720 meters, the airport has challenging take-off and landing runways

Despite its remote location and dangers, Talcha Airport has provided vital connectivity since 2003, giving travelers easy access to the pristine waters of Lake Rara, a natural wonder that attracts adventurers and all nature enthusiasts.

Talcha Airport has a runway with a length of 570 meters and a width of 20. Airport regulations are THL (IATA) and VNTR (ICAO). Airlines like Tara Air, Sita Air, Summit Air, and Nepal Airlines from Nepalgunj to Talcha Airport, which is the only connecting airport.

The airport can accommodate two D228-style planes and has a hull size of 2312 square meters. The runway and apron are made of asphalt concrete. For adventure enthusiasts, Talcha Airport is a gateway to exotic adventures. From here, hiking trails could take you to scenic views, including the spectacular Lake Rara.

It is an opportunity to experience the natural beauty and culture of Nepal. So, for a different kind of adventure, Talcha Airport is where your journey through remote and beautiful lands begins!

10. Dolpa Airport – Connecting travelers with Incredible Dolpo

Dolpa Juphal Airport has been serving masses of people in Dolpa since 1975. It is situated at an elevation of 2503 meters. Due to its high elevation, it offers exciting views. Dolpa Airport has regular flights to Nepalgunj and Surkhet, making it one of the best well-organized smaller airports in Nepal.

This makes life easier for locals and has been a great way for hikers to explore less crowded places. Flights to Dolpa Airport provide a memorable experience for travelers, especially those who want to explore Upper Dolpo, one of the most popular trekking destinations in Nepal.

Dolpa Airport is situated in the beautiful Dolpo region, offering a gateway to many wonderful destinations. It is the only airway to reach Shey Phoksundo Lake and Shey Phoksundo National Park. The airport is also the starting point for trekking in the Dolpo region.

Dolpa airport has a runway about 560 meters long and 20 meters wide. You may hear its regulations DOP (IATA) and VNDP (ICAO). The airport can accommodate two DHC6-style planes and has an apron size of 2400 square meters. Only Tara Air, Sita Air, Nepal Airlines, and Summit Air to Dolpa Airport.

So, whether you are traveling or want to explore the beauty of Dolpo, Dolpa Airport is the place to start your journey!

Conclusion

Airports in Nepal are very important as they help connect the whole country and make it easier for people to travel, whether they are staying there or visiting. The largest is Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport, which resembles the giant gateway to Nepal.

It connects the capital with different countries, making it great for tourists and businesses. And then, there are the smaller airports like Lukla, Pokhara, and Jomsom, which look like important stopover points for small planes.

These airports are the starting point for an amazing mountain adventure, like visiting Everest Base Camp or seeing the Annapurna himalayas. The proximity of these airports makes it easy for people to come from all over to enjoy the spectacular scenery of Nepal. So, with these amazing airports and hiking trails, Nepal has become a cool destination for all kinds of travel!