Flight From Kathmandu (KTM) to Ipoh (IPH)

Planning a journey from the cultural hub of Kathmandu to the charming heritage city of Ipoh? This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about flying between these two distinctive Asian destinations. Whether you're traveling for business, leisure, or exploration, understanding your flight options, airport facilities, and travel alternatives will help ensure a smooth journey from Nepal to Malaysia.

Direct Flights

No direct flight available.

Layover Flights

• Route: Tribhuvan International Airport (Nepal) → Singapore Changi Airport (Singapore) → Sultan Azlan Shah Airport (Malaysia)
• Airlines: Singapore Airlines, Scoot
• Total Flight Duration: 15h 25m
• Aircraft: Boeing 737, Airbus A320
• Layovers: Singapore Changi Airport (SIN), Singapore layover for 9h 5m (overnight)

Information about schedule and airline subject to change based on airline policy. Please check regularly at Traveloka App.

About Tribhuvan International Airport - Kathmandu

Tribhuvan International Airport is the main gateway to Nepal and serves as a crucial hub for travelers exploring this Himalayan nation. As the country's primary international airport, it connects Nepal to over 40 destinations across 17 countries and serves as the starting point for many Mount Everest adventurers.

Location

Tribhuvan International Airport is conveniently located just 5km (3 miles) east of Kathmandu city center. The airport is situated along Ring Road, making it easily accessible from various parts of the capital city. The strategic location provides travelers with a relatively short commute time of approximately 15 minutes from downtown Kathmandu.

Airport Terminal

The airport features both international and domestic terminals housed within a single building complex. The international terminal handles all overseas flights, while the domestic terminal, located approximately 500 meters north of the international terminal, handles flights to various destinations within Nepal. For passengers needing to transfer between terminals, a free shuttle bus service operates every 20 minutes.

Transport to Airport

Getting to Tribhuvan International Airport is convenient with several transportation options:

• Taxi: Taxis are readily available throughout Kathmandu and provide the most direct route to the airport. The journey takes approximately 10-15 minutes from the city center.
• Private Car: For those with personal vehicles, the airport offers parking facilities in front of the international terminal and operations/airlines building.
• Public Bus: Regular and affordable public bus services connect the city center to the airport, with journey times of approximately 20-30 minutes.
• Hotel Shuttles: Many larger hotels in Kathmandu offer pre-arranged shuttle services to the airport for their guests.

Facilities

Tribhuvan International Airport offers a range of facilities to enhance passenger comfort and convenience:

• Free Wi-Fi: Complimentary wireless internet is available throughout the International Terminal Building from departure to arrival areas. Passengers can connect to 'Free CAAN Worldlink Wifi' or 'TIA-Wifi-Departure' without registration.
• Medical Services: The airport provides medical diagnosis, first-aid, and ambulance services through KMC (Kathmandu Medical College) or HAMS, located on the first floor of the departure hall.
• Accessibility Features: The airport is equipped with lifts, escalators, special washrooms, and other facilities for passengers with disabilities.
• Parking: Paid parking facilities are available at several locations including the new arrival area of the international terminal and in front of the operations/airlines building and domestic terminal.
• Currency Exchange: Foreign exchange services are available for travelers needing to convert currency.
• Information Desk: The Nepal Tourism Board operates an information center that can assist with hotel bookings and provide tourist information.
• Food and Beverage: Various dining options and snack bars are available throughout the terminal.
• Mobile Charging Stations: Free charging hubs are available for passengers to charge their devices.

About Sultan Azlan Shah - Ipoh

Sultan Azlan Shah Airport serves the city of Ipoh, the capital of Perak state in Malaysia. This airport, named after the ninth Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia, provides a convenient gateway to this historically rich region known for its colonial architecture, limestone caves, and renowned local cuisine.

Location

Sultan Azlan Shah Airport is situated approximately 6 kilometers north of Ipoh city center. The convenient location allows travelers to reach downtown Ipoh in about 15-20 minutes by car or taxi, making it an easily accessible entry point to this charming Malaysian city.

Airport Terminal

The airport features a single terminal building that handles both domestic and international flights. Though modest in size compared to major international hubs, the terminal is well-maintained and provides essential services for travelers. The compact nature of the terminal means shorter walking distances and generally quicker processing times for passengers.

Transport From Airport

Several transportation options are available for travelers arriving at Sultan Azlan Shah Airport:

• Taxi: Taxis are the most common and convenient mode of transport from the airport. They are readily available outside the arrival hall, with fixed rates to various destinations around Ipoh.
• Ride-sharing Services: Popular ride-hailing apps operate in Ipoh and can be used to arrange transportation from the airport.
• Car Rental: Several car rental agencies have counters at the airport for travelers who prefer to drive themselves.
• Airport Limousine: Pre-arranged airport limousine services are available for a more premium transport option.

Facilities

Despite its smaller size, Sultan Azlan Shah Airport offers a range of facilities to ensure passenger comfort:

• Information Counter: An information desk is available to assist travelers with queries and provide guidance.
• Food and Beverage: Several cafes and food stalls offer local and international cuisine.
• Retail Shops: A selection of shops selling souvenirs, travel essentials, and local products.
• ATMs and Currency Exchange: Banking facilities are available for passengers needing cash or currency conversion.
• Wi-Fi: Free wireless internet access is provided throughout the terminal.
• Prayer Rooms: Dedicated prayer rooms are available for Muslim travelers.
• Wheelchair Services: Assistance for passengers with reduced mobility can be arranged through airlines.

FAQ Kathmandu to Ipoh Flight

• Question: What is the best time of year to fly from Kathmandu to Ipoh? Answer: The ideal time to fly this route is during the dry seasons of both locations. For Ipoh, this means between January to February and May to July when rainfall is lower. For Kathmandu, October to November and February to April offer the most pleasant weather conditions. Avoiding monsoon seasons in both countries (June to September in Nepal and November to March in Malaysia) will help ensure smoother flights with fewer weather-related delays.
• Question: Do I need a visa to travel from Nepal to Malaysia? Answer: Yes, Nepalese citizens require a visa to enter Malaysia. It's recommended to apply for a visa before your journey. Travelers of other nationalities should check their specific visa requirements for both Nepal and Malaysia before booking flights. Electronic visas are available for many nationalities visiting Malaysia, which can be applied for online prior to travel.
• Question: What is the baggage allowance for flights from Kathmandu to Ipoh? Answer: Baggage allowance varies by airline and ticket class. Generally, Singapore Airlines allows 30kg for economy class and 40kg for business class on international flights, while Scoot typically offers 20kg with purchased baggage allowance. Always verify the specific allowance with your airline at the time of booking through Traveloka, as policies may change.
• Question: How early should I arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport for my flight? Answer: It's recommended to arrive at least 3 hours before your international departure time at Tribhuvan International Airport. Security procedures can be time-consuming, and the airport can get crowded during peak travel seasons. This extra time allows for potential traffic delays when traveling to the airport in Kathmandu.
• Question: Is there a time difference between Nepal and Malaysia? Answer: Yes, Malaysia is 2 hours and 15 minutes ahead of Nepal. When it's 12:00 PM in Kathmandu, it's 2:15 PM in Ipoh. This time difference should be considered when planning connections and arranging meetups upon arrival.
• Question: What are the payment options available when booking this flight route through Traveloka? Answer: Traveloka offers multiple payment options including credit/debit cards, online banking, and various e-wallets. The platform provides secure payment processing and often features special promotions and discounts for certain payment methods, making it convenient to book your Kathmandu to Ipoh journey.
• Question: Are there any health requirements or vaccinations needed for this journey? Answer: Requirements may vary based on nationality and current health regulations. Generally, it's recommended to have routine vaccinations updated, and some travelers choose to get hepatitis A and typhoid vaccinations. Check with health authorities or a travel medicine specialist before your trip for the most current recommendations and requirements.
• Question: What should I do during the 9-hour overnight layover in Singapore? Answer: Singapore Changi Airport is consistently rated among the world's best airports and offers numerous amenities for travelers during long layovers. You can explore the Butterfly Garden, watch a movie at the free cinema, take a swim in the rooftop pool, or even book a short city tour if your layover timing permits. For overnight layovers, consider booking a few hours at the airport transit hotel or resting in one of the many comfortable lounge areas.

Other Ways to Travel From Kathmandu to Ipoh

While flying is the primary method of traveling between Kathmandu and Ipoh due to the considerable distance and geographical barriers, there are alternative multi-modal options for adventurous travelers:

• Air and Land Combination:
  • Kathmandu to Kuala Lumpur Flight + Train to Ipoh
    • Flight duration: Approximately 5-6 hours
    • Train journey: 2.5-3 hours on the ETS (Electric Train Service)
    • Total journey time: Approximately 8-10 hours (excluding waiting times)
  • Kathmandu to Bangkok Flight + Connection to Kuala Lumpur + Land Transport to Ipoh
    • Flight to Bangkok: Approximately 3.5-4 hours
    • Connection to Kuala Lumpur: Approximately 2 hours
    • Land transport to Ipoh: Approximately 3-4 hours by bus or train
    • Total journey time: 9-12 hours (excluding layovers and waiting times)
  • Kathmandu to Singapore Flight + Bus/Train to Malaysia + Domestic Transport to Ipoh
    • Flight to Singapore: Approximately 5 hours
    • Bus or train to Kuala Lumpur: 5-6 hours
    • Domestic transport to Ipoh: 2-3 hours
    • Total journey time: 12-15 hours (excluding waiting times)

These alternative routes require significantly more planning, time, and potentially multiple visas, but they offer the opportunity to experience more destinations along the way for those with flexible itineraries.

Explore Ipoh

Ipoh, once a booming tin mining town, has transformed into a captivating destination known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, natural wonders, and exceptional culinary scene. Here's what not to miss when visiting this Malaysian gem.

Popular Destinations in Ipoh

1. Ipoh Old Town - The historic heart of the city featuring beautiful heritage buildings, street art, and charming cafes. Must-visit spots include the Ipoh Railway Station, Town Hall, and the Birch Memorial Clock Tower. The area's colonial architecture reflects Ipoh's rich historical past and makes for excellent photography opportunities.

2. Kellie's Castle - An unfinished mansion built by a Scottish planter in the early 20th century. This atmospheric ruin features unique architectural elements combining Moorish, Indo-Saracenic, and Scottish designs. The castle's intriguing backstory and reportedly haunted halls make it a fascinating excursion just outside the city.

3. Concubine Lane (Yi Lai Hong) - A narrow, vibrant street once known for housing the mistresses of wealthy Chinese businessmen. Today, it's filled with souvenir shops, street food vendors, and Instagram-worthy spots. Neighboring lanes, including Wife Lane and Market Lane, complete this culturally rich district.

4. Gua Tempurung - One of Peninsula Malaysia's largest caves, located about 24km south of Ipoh. This impressive limestone cave system offers various tour options ranging from easy walks to challenging adventure routes that include crawling through underground rivers and tight passages.

5. Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple - A stunning Buddhist cave temple set against a backdrop of towering limestone hills. The temple features ornate statues and religious artifacts inside, while the rear opens to a beautiful garden with reflecting ponds and a jogging path surrounded by dramatic karst formations.

Popular Cuisine in Ipoh

1. Ipoh White Coffee - A local specialty where coffee beans are roasted with margarine, creating a milder, aromatic brew typically served with condensed milk. Sin Yoon Loong and Nam Heong are two historic establishments famous for authentic Ipoh white coffee experiences.

2. Kai Si Hor Fun - A signature Ipoh dish consisting of smooth, flat rice noodles served in a clear, flavorful chicken and prawn broth, topped with shredded chicken, prawns, and spring onions. Thean Chun (House of Mirrors) is renowned for its exceptional version of this beloved dish.

3. Bean Sprout Chicken (Nga Choy Kai) - Another Ipoh specialty featuring poached chicken and the city's famous plump bean sprouts, served with rice or noodles and accompanied by a special sauce. Ipoh's unique soil and water conditions produce exceptionally crunchy, juicy bean sprouts unlike those found elsewhere.

4. Curry Mee - A spicy noodle soup with yellow noodles and rice vermicelli in a rich curry broth, typically topped with roast pork, shrimp, bean sprouts, mint leaves, and sambal. Ipoh's version is distinctive for its balanced flavors and aromatic curry base.

5. Salt-Baked Chicken - A traditional cooking method where whole chickens are wrapped in paper and baked in coarse salt, resulting in incredibly tender, flavorful meat. Aun Kheng Lim is a well-known establishment that has been perfecting this dish for generations, using a closely guarded recipe.

Ipoh's culinary scene reflects its multicultural heritage, with Chinese, Malay, and Indian influences creating a diverse and exciting food landscape that rivals larger Malaysian cities. The quality of ingredients, particularly those grown with the mineral-rich water from surrounding limestone hills, gives Ipoh cuisine its distinctive excellence.