International Airports in Nepal 2025

Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA)

Tribhuvan International Airport is the main airport in Nepal. It is located in Kathmandu and has been in operation since 1951. It is the busiest airport in the country.

 

The airport is 1,339.54 meters above sea level. It can handle different types of planes and operates in all kinds of weather. It has facilities for refueling, communication, and navigation.

 

Passengers can use lounges, restaurants, transportation services, and free Wi-Fi. Airlines like Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Nepal Airlines, and Air India fly from here. TIA operates day and night, making it very important for travelers.

Gautam Buddha International Airport (GBIA)

Gautam Buddha International Airport is near Lumbini, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is 18 kilometers east of Lumbini and 105 meters above sea level.

 

This airport works all year in any weather and has night operation capabilities. It handles both domestic and international flights using modern navigation systems.

 

Passengers can use free Wi-Fi, baggage trolleys, and transportation like taxis and e-rickshaws. There are also hotels, restaurants, ATMs, and banking services nearby. Airlines like Buddha Air, Yeti Airlines, and Nepal Airlines connect GBIA to cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara.

Pokhara International Airport (PIA)

Pokhara International Airport is in Pokhara, 200 kilometers west of Kathmandu. It is 803.89 meters above sea level.

 

The airport is a gateway for tourists visiting places like Muktinath, Jomsom, and the Annapurna trekking area. It can handle large planes like the Boeing 737 series. It has three international parking bays and eight domestic ones.

 

Travelers can enjoy free Wi-Fi, restaurants, gift shops, and child care facilities. The airport also has advanced lighting, parking systems, and taxi services for a smooth travel experience.

Which Airport to Choose and Why?

 

Choosing the right airport in Nepal depends on your travel needs. Think about convenience, destinations, and the kind of experience you want.

 

Tribhuvan International Airport

 

Kathmandu is Nepal's busiest airport. It has the most international flights and connects to major cities worldwide. If you want many flight options, choose Kathmandu.

 

But Kathmandu can be crowded and noisy. If you prefer a calmer vibe, you can explore Pokhara first, enjoy its relaxing atmosphere, and then fly back to Kathmandu for your international flight.

 

Pokhara International Airport

Pokhara is perfect if you love nature. The airport is surrounded by mountains, lakes, and green hills. It’s a great starting point for treks in the Annapurna region or visits to places like Muktinath and Jomsom.

 

Right now, Pokhara has fewer international flights, but it’s improving. You can relax here, enjoy the tourist-friendly vibe, and then take a domestic flight to Kathmandu for your international journey.

 

Gautam Buddha International Airport 

This airport is near Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha. It’s great for visiting temples and cultural sites.

 

It doesn’t have many international flights yet. If you need frequent connections, you’ll have to take a domestic flight to Kathmandu or Pokhara. Gautam Buddha Airport is growing, but for now, it’s best for peaceful cultural trips.

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In conclusion, Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu is best for frequent international flights and connectivity. Pokhara International Airport offers a peaceful setting and access to the Annapurna region, though its international flights are limited. Gautam Buddha International Airport is ideal for pilgrims visiting Lumbini, but its international flights are currently few. Choose based on your travel preferences and destination.