Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu

Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), often shortened to TIA, is Nepal's main international gateway. It is operated by the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal and connects the country with dozens of destinations abroad. For many trekkers it is also the starting point for trips to Everest, Annapurna and other Himalayan regions.

How far the airport is from central Kathmandu

The airport lies about 6 km east of the city centre and Thamel, the main tourist district. It sits near Pashupatinath Temple and is linked to the rest of the Kathmandu Valley by the Ring Road. Taxi rides into Thamel usually take 15 to 30 minutes, although traffic can make this longer.

Terminals at Tribhuvan International Airport

There are two separate passenger terminals: one for international flights and one for domestic flights. A free shuttle runs between the main gate and the domestic terminal. The international terminal has cafés, a duty-free shop, banking services, a baggage help desk and lounges for eligible passengers.

Airlines and routes from Kathmandu

Nepal Airlines and Himalaya Airlines are based here, and many foreign carriers serve cities across Asia and the Middle East. On the domestic side, airlines such as Buddha Air and Yeti Airlines fly to Pokhara, Lukla and other towns across Nepal. Several companies also run early-morning mountain sightseeing flights along the Everest range.

Getting into Kathmandu from the airport

• Prepaid and metered taxis: available at both terminals at all hours.
• Public buses: link the international terminal with central Kathmandu and Lalitpur.
• Hotel pick-ups: many hotels and trekking agencies meet arriving guests.

Around Kathmandu

The airport sits among the valley's three historic cities of Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur, each with its own Durbar Square. Pashupatinath and the great stupa at Boudhanath are close to the airport, and Swayambhunath looks out over the city from a hilltop to the west.

Tips for Tribhuvan International Airport

Winter fog and heavy traffic can cause delays, so build extra time into tight connections. Mountain flights to places like Lukla depend on the weather, so keep your plans flexible and confirm which airport your domestic flight departs from. Compare Kathmandu flights and book on Traveloka.