Nepal, an Asian country famous for its majestic mountains, breathtaking landscapes, and a rich collection of temples, offers a unique Buddhist culture. Let Mytour walk you through the fundamental information about Tribhuvan Airport in Kathmandu to help you prepare for your upcoming adventure.
1. Overview of Tribhuvan International Airport
Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) is located in the Kathmandu Valley, about 5 km from the center of Kathmandu.
Originally named Gauchaur Airport, it was inaugurated by King Mahendra in 1955 and renamed Tribhuvan Airport. In 1964, it was officially designated as Tribhuvan International Airport.

Tribhuvan International Airport is approximately 5 km away from the center of Kathmandu
Tribhuvan Airport has two passenger terminals: the domestic terminal and the international terminal. In addition, there is a terminal designated for VIP passengers. The terminals have undergone significant construction, renovation, and upgrades by the government to better serve travelers. However, their capacity remains relatively small, and the facilities are still basic.
On the plus side, Tribhuvan International Airport enjoys a convenient location for tourists, being just 1 km away from the Pashupatinath Temple and approximately 6 km east of the city center and the main tourist area, Thamel.
2. Getting between the airport and downtown Kathmandu
- Bus: A cost-effective and convenient mode of transport upon your arrival in Kathmandu. Local buses frequently stop at the airport gates to pick up and drop off passengers. While buses run regularly, they can be quite crowded.
- Hotel shuttle: Some hotels in the city center offer airport shuttle services. Please contact the hotel where you’ve made your reservation for assistance.
- Taxi: Taxis are readily available at the airport in the ground transportation area. However, a downside of Tribhuvan Airport taxis is the absence of a meter, meaning passengers will need to agree on the fare with the driver before starting the journey. Alternatively, you can opt for a prepaid taxi: At the taxi counter in the arrivals hall, you pay for your ride in advance, and then you’ll receive a ticket to present to the driver before getting into the taxi.

Buses are the easiest way to travel between the airport and downtown Kathmandu
3. Opening hours of Tribhuvan International Airport
The airport is closed from 12:30 AM to 6:30 AM.
4. Hotels near Tribhuvan Airport
Several hotels are located close to the airport and are within walking distance, although it may be inconvenient if you’re carrying heavy luggage.
The following hotels offer airport pick-up services (advance booking required). The shuttle ride takes about 2 minutes from the airport: Suite Hotel Meridian, Regal Airport Hotel, Summit Residency, Palagya Hotel.
5. Amenities and services at Tribhuvan International Airport
Tribhuvan International Airport currently offers amenities and services such as: free Wi-Fi, currency exchange counters, duty-free shops, souvenir stores, food and beverage outlets, tourist information desks, luggage services, medical facilities, electronic device charging points, a post office, restrooms for seniors and nursing mothers, and ATMs.

The airport currently has two passenger terminals: the domestic terminal and the international terminal
6. Flights from Vietnam to Kathmandu
Currently, there are no direct flights from Vietnam to Kathmandu. You will need to transit at 1-2 stopovers before landing at Tribhuvan Airport. Passengers can fly from airports in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Kathmandu with airlines such as Vietnam Airlines, Thai Airways, Jet Airways, Kenya Airways, China Eastern Airlines, and more.
We hope the useful information provided above will help make your flight to Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu, Nepal) smooth and safe. Please contact Mytour if you need assistance with booking flights to Kathmandu for the best support.
Friday, January 17, 2025 3:43 PM
