Tribhuvan International Airport or Kathmandu Airport (KTM)

About Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM)

Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) is Nepal's only international airport and the sole gateway to Kathmandu, the country's capital. Named after King Tribhuvan, it handles all international and domestic flights for the Kathmandu Valley and is the primary entry point for trekkers, pilgrims, and business travellers visiting Nepal.

Kathmandu Airport Details – Tribhuvan International Airport IATA, Address and Pin Code

• Official Name: Tribhuvan International Airport
• IATA Code: KTM
• ICAO Code: VNKT
• Address: Sinamangal, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
• Airport Pin Code: 44600
• Distance from Kathmandu City Centre: Approximately 6 km east of Thamel, Kathmandu
• Phone Number: +977 1 4472 212
• Old Name: Gauchar Airport (used before renaming after King Tribhuvan)

How Many Airports in Kathmandu?

Kathmandu has one airport, KTM. Nepal has smaller domestic airports across the country including Pokhara Regional International Airport, which opened in 2023, but KTM is the only facility in the Kathmandu Valley handling international traffic.

How Many Terminals in Tribhuvan Airport?

Tribhuvan International Airport has two terminals:

• International Terminal: Handles all international flights, served by Nepal Airlines, Qatar Airways, Emirates, Turkish Airlines, IndiGo, and Air India among others.
• Domestic Terminal: Serves flights within Nepal to Pokhara, Lukla, and other regional airstrips via Buddha Air, Yeti Airlines, and Saurya Airlines.

Distance Between Tribhuvan Airport Terminals

The international and domestic terminals are separate buildings connected by a short road. For connections between international and domestic flights, allow at least 3 hours as the process involves exiting one terminal and completing check-in and security at the other.

How Many Runways in Tribhuvan Airport?

KTM has one runway, approximately 3,050 metres long. The single runway causes sequenced operations and, combined with mountain weather and morning fog in the Kathmandu Valley, makes KTM one of the more technically demanding airports in the region. Delays are common, particularly in the mornings.

Visa and Immigration for Tribhuvan Airport – Information for Indian Travellers

Nepal is one of the easiest destinations for Indian passport holders. Here is what you need to know:

• Visa-Free Entry: Indian citizens do not require a visa to enter Nepal for any purpose. Entry is free and unrestricted with no prior application needed.
• Identity Document: Indian nationals can enter using a valid Indian passport or a government-issued photo ID such as an Aadhaar card or voter ID. A passport is recommended for smoother processing.
• OCI Cardholders: Indian OCI cardholders enter Nepal under the same visa-free arrangement when travelling on their Indian passport.
• Duration of Stay: There is no restriction on the length of stay for Indian nationals in Nepal.
• Documents Required: Valid Indian passport or government photo ID, and a return or onward ticket.
• At Immigration: Indian nationals use a dedicated lane at KTM. The process is fast and no biometric capture is required for Indian passport holders.

Tribhuvan Airport Lounges and Facilities

• Lounges: The Yak and Yeti Lounge and Nepal Airlines lounge in the international terminal are open to business class passengers and via paid day pass.
• Duty-Free and Shopping: A small duty-free section offers Nepali handicrafts, tea, pashmina, and spirits. Options are limited compared to larger airports.
• Dining: Cafes in both terminals serve Nepali, Indian, and basic international food. Local dishes are worth trying.
• Other Facilities: Free Wi-Fi (variable speed), prayer room, medical facilities, currency exchange, and ATMs in the international terminal.

Things to Do in Tribhuvan Airport

• Pick up Nepali tea, pashmina, or handicrafts at the international terminal duty-free shops.
• Exchange currency at the airport counters, though rates in Thamel are generally better.
• Try a cup of Nepali tea at the terminal cafes while waiting for your flight.

Places to Visit Near Tribhuvan Airport

• Pashupatinath Temple (3 km): One of the most sacred Hindu temples in the world, located along the Bagmati River and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Just minutes from the airport.
• Boudhanath Stupa (4 km): One of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world and a major pilgrimage site, surrounded by monasteries and Tibetan restaurants.
• Thamel (6 km): Kathmandu's main tourist hub, packed with trekking gear shops, restaurants, rooftop cafes, and guesthouses.

FAQs About Kathmandu Airport – Tribhuvan International Airport

What is the Official Name of Tribhuvan Airport?

The official name is Tribhuvan International Airport, operated by the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN).

What is the IATA Code for Tribhuvan International Airport?

The IATA code is KTM and the ICAO code is VNKT.

Which Terminals Serve Domestic and International Flights at Tribhuvan Airport?

The International Terminal handles all international flights. The Domestic Terminal serves flights within Nepal. They are separate buildings within the same complex.

Where is Tribhuvan Airport Located?

Tribhuvan International Airport is in the Sinamangal area of Kathmandu, approximately 6 km east of Thamel.

When Was Tribhuvan Airport Built?

The airport was established in 1949 as Gauchar Airport, renamed after King Tribhuvan, and began international operations in the 1950s.

Is KTM Open 24 Hours?

KTM does not consistently operate 24 hours. Flights are subject to daylight restrictions and weather. Morning fog frequently causes delays. Always check your flight status before heading to the airport.

How Far is Tribhuvan Airport from Kathmandu City Center?

The airport is about 6 km from Thamel. A taxi takes 15 to 30 minutes depending on traffic, which can be heavy during peak hours.

What Airlines Operate from KTM?

Airlines at KTM include Nepal Airlines, Qatar Airways, Emirates, Turkish Airlines, Air India, IndiGo, Himalaya Airlines, and several other regional carriers.

Are There Lounges at Tribhuvan Airport?

Yes. The Yak and Yeti Lounge and Nepal Airlines lounge in the international terminal are available via paid day pass, offering refreshments and comfortable seating.