International Airport in Nepal

International Airport in Nepal

Nepal, a land of breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, has been expanding, its aviation infrastructure to support its growing tourism industry. One of the most significant additions to the country’s aviation sector is the international airport in Nepal.  Particularly Pokhara International Airport. This modern facility is expected to enhance regional connectivity, boost tourism, and provide an alternative gateway for international travelers visiting Nepal. However, despite its completion, the airport has faced several operational challenges.

How Many International Airports Are in Nepal?

As of now, Nepal has three international airports:

1. Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu – the main and busiest international airport in Nepal.
2. Gautam Buddha International Airport (GBIA) in Lumbini – the second international airport in Nepal.
3. Pokhara International Airport (PIA) – the newest addition to Nepal’s international aviation network.

These airports play a crucial role in connecting Nepal with the rest of the world. Facilitating tourism, trade, and cultural exchanges.

Main International Airport in Nepal

Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) is the main international airport in Nepal. Located in the capital city, Kathmandu, it serves as the primary gateway for international travelers. TIA handles the majority of Nepal’s air traffic, including flights to and from major global destinations. Despite its importance, TIA faces congestion and infrastructural limitations, necessitating the development of additional international airports in Nepal.

Second International Airport in Nepal

The Gautam Buddha International Airport (GBIA) in Lumbini is Nepal’s second international airport. Located in the birthplace of Lord Buddha, this airport is strategically significant for attracting Buddhist pilgrims from around the world. It aims to decongest TIA by accommodating international flights, primarily from South Asia and East Asia. Operational since 2022, GBIA has enhanced connectivity for travelers visiting Lumbini, one of Nepal’s most important religious and historical sites. Lumbini, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is not only a spiritual center but also an important historical and cultural attraction, drawing tourists interested in Buddhist heritage, meditation retreats, and monastic studies. The airport plays a crucial role in supporting the growing tourism industry in Lumbini, making it more accessible to international visitors.

New International Airport in Nepal

The Pokhara International Airport (PIA) is the newest international airport in Nepal. Designed to be a hub for tourism in western Nepal, this airport was inaugurated on January 1, 2023. It aims to provide direct international connectivity to Pokhara, a city renowned for its stunning landscapes, adventure tourism, and as the gateway to the Annapurna trekking region. However, despite its completion, international operations are yet to be fully functional due to several challenges.

Trekking Areas Connected to the International Airport in Nepal

Pokhara serves as a gateway to several of Nepal’s most famous trekking routes, making the international airport in Nepal a significant addition for adventure tourism. Some of the key trekking areas that connect to Pokhara include:

1. Annapurna Circuit – One of the most popular trekking routes in Nepal, this circuit offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
2. Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek – A shorter yet rewarding trek that takes travelers through diverse landscapes and traditional Gurung villages.
3. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek – Known for its spectacular sunrise views over the Himalayas, this trek is ideal for beginners and short-duration travelers.
4. Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek – A less crowded yet scenic trek offering panoramic views of Annapurna, Machapuchare, and Hiunchuli.
5. Upper Mustang Trek – A culturally rich trek through the ancient kingdom of Mustang, known for its Tibetan-influenced culture and arid landscapes.
6. Manaslu Circuit Trek – Though slightly more remote, this trek offers an alternative to the Annapurna Circuit, featuring breathtaking scenery and cultural diversity.
7. Khopra Ridge Trek – An off-the-beaten-path trek that provides a quieter, less commercialized alternative to the Annapurna Base Camp route.

Domestic Flights Connected to the International Airport in Nepal

While international flights are yet to commence fully, Pokhara International Airport operates several domestic routes, enhancing accessibility to different parts of Nepal. The key domestic flights connected to Pokhara include:

1. Kathmandu – Pokhara: The most popular domestic flight, connecting Nepal’s capital to the country’s prime tourist destination.
2. Bharatpur – Pokhara: A vital link for travelers visiting Chitwan National Park and Pokhara.
3. Bhairahawa – Pokhara: This route connects Pokhara with Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha.
4. Nepalgunj – Pokhara: A crucial route for western Nepal, connecting Pokhara to the Terai region.
5. Simara – Pokhara: Provides access for travelers from the central Terai region.
6. Jomsom – Pokhara: One of the most scenic flights, connecting Pokhara with the Mustang region, famous for the Muktinath Temple and Upper Mustang trek.

Additionally, Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu connects to various domestic airports across Nepal, including:

1. Kathmandu – Lukla: The gateway to Mount Everest Region and the Everest Base Camp Hike .
2. Kathmandu – Tumlingtar: Access to Makalu Barun National Park and surrounding trekking regions.
3. Kathmandu – Dhangadhi: Connecting travelers to the far-western region of Nepal.
4. Kathmandu – Biratnagar: A crucial domestic airport serving the eastern region.
5. Kathmandu – Janakpur: A religiously significant route for Hindu pilgrims visiting Janakpur, the birthplace of Sita.
6. Kathmandu – Bhadrapur: The closest airport to eastern Nepal’s Ilam tea gardens and the gateway to Darjeeling, India.

These domestic connections play a crucial role in facilitating tourism and business travel, making Pokhara International Airport and Tribhuvan International Airport key aviation hubs.

International Airport in Lumbini

Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, houses the Gautam Buddha International Airport (GBIA). This airport plays a vital role in attracting Buddhist pilgrims and international tourists. Located about 19 kilometers from Lumbini’s core pilgrimage site. GBIA has improved accessibility for travelers seeking to visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Apart from its spiritual significance, Lumbini offers a variety of tourism experiences, including ancient monasteries, meditation centers, and archaeological sites. The peaceful ambiance, combined with its historical and religious importance, makes Lumbini a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Nepal’s cultural heritage.

Does Pokhara Have International Flights?

Currently, Pokhara International Airport does not have regular international flights. Despite its official inauguration in early 2023, the airport has struggled to attract airlines willing to operate international routes. Several factors, including regulatory issues, limited demand, and high operational costs, have hindered its ability to launch regular international services. The Nepalese government is working to address these challenges and encourage airlines to initiate international operations from Pokhara.

Role of Airports in Tourism in Nepal

Airports play a pivotal role in Nepal’s tourism industry, which is one of the country’s primary economic drivers. The international airport in Nepal serves as an entry point for millions of tourists annually, making air connectivity essential for the growth of the tourism sector. The role of airports in boosting tourism includes:

1. Enhancing Accessibility – Airports provide faster and more convenient access to Nepal’s major tourist destinations, including the Himalayas, cultural heritage sites, and national parks.
2. Supporting Adventure Tourism – Many trekking destinations, such as Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit, rely on domestic flights for accessibility. Lukla Airport, for example, is crucial for Everest trekkers.
3. Promoting Religious and Cultural Tourism – The presence of international airports like GBIA in Lumbini facilitates pilgrimage tourism, attracting Buddhist devotees from across the world.
4. Boosting Local Economies – Increased air connectivity generates employment and income opportunities in local communities, including hotels, restaurants, and travel agencies.
5. Reducing Travel Time – Air travel significantly reduces the time needed to reach remote destinations, making it more feasible for international tourists with limited travel durations.
6. Encouraging Sustainable Tourism – With better airport infrastructure, Nepal can promote eco-friendly tourism by regulating visitor inflow and ensuring sustainable travel practices.

Overall Reflection

The international airport in Nepal is a major development in Nepal’s aviation sector, aiming to improve connectivity and boost tourism. However, despite its inauguration and completion, the airport is yet to become fully functional for international flights. As Nepal continues to develop its aviation infrastructure, efforts must be made to address operational challenges and ensure that Pokhara International Airport reaches its full potential as an international gateway.