Tribhuvan International Airport
Kathmandu, Nepal · Since 1949
Last updated:
About KTM
Nepal only international airport, gateway to the Himalayas and Mount Everest.
Terminals
International Terminal
Handles all international flights. The terminal has been expanded but remains compact. Duty-free shopping, currency exchange, and a few dining options available. Can be congested during peak trekking season.
Domestic Terminal
Serves all domestic flights within Nepal including routes to Lukla (Everest), Pokhara, and other regional airports. Separate building from the international terminal, about 10 minutes walk.
Minimum Connection Times (MCT)
Airlines at KTM
Nepal Airlines
International Terminal Hub
Buddha Air
Domestic Terminal
Yeti Airlines
Domestic Terminal
Air Arabia
Air China
Air India
Batik Air
Bhutan Airlines
Showing 8 of 29 airlines. View all airlines →
Getting There & Away
Taxi
NPR 700-1200 (~$5-9 USD)
20-40 minutes to city center
Public Transport
NPR 20-50 (~$0.15-0.40 USD)
40-60 minutes to city center
Parking at KTM
Terminal Parking
Extended Parking
VIP Parking
Airport Lounges
CIP Lounge
International Terminal
Premium lounge with better food selection, comfortable seating, and attentive service.
Executive Lounge
International Terminal
The main lounge at Kathmandu airport offering Nepali and Indian cuisine, beverages, and Wi-Fi. Basic but a welcome escape from the crowded departure area.
Himalaya Lounge
International Terminal
Simple lounge with Nepali tea, snacks, and basic amenities. Good for avoiding the busy departure hall.
Nepal Airlines Lounge
International Terminal
Basic lounge for Nepal Airlines premium passengers with tea, snacks, and newspapers.
Where to Stay
Nearby Hotels
Airport Hotel
Airport area, 5 minutes from terminal
Basic hotel for overnight stops near the airport. Day rooms available. Free airport transfer.
Hotel Manang
Thamel, 25 minutes from airport
Well-known mid-range hotel in the tourist hub of Thamel. Clean rooms, restaurant, and easy access to trekking shops and nightlife.
Hotel Yak & Yeti
Durbar Marg, 20 minutes from airport
Historic luxury hotel in the heart of Kathmandu with heritage wing, casino, pool, and fine dining. A Kathmandu institution.
Hyatt Regency Kathmandu
Boudha, 10 minutes from airport
Luxury hotel near Boudhanath Stupa with extensive gardens, multiple restaurants, pool, and spa. Beautiful traditional Newari architecture.
Kathmandu Marriott Hotel
Naxal, 15 minutes from airport
Modern international brand hotel with comfortable rooms, rooftop bar with mountain views, and excellent restaurant.
Food & Dining
Cafe de Temple
Cafe/Snacks
International Terminal (Airside)
Small cafe serving Nepali tea (chiya), coffee, pastries, and sandwiches.
05:00-22:00
Pizza Hut
Fast Food/Pizza
International Terminal (Landside)
Familiar pizza chain with both dine-in and takeaway. Good option for Western food.
06:00-22:00
Duty Free Cafe
Cafe/Snacks
International Terminal (Airside)
Small outlet near duty-free shops with drinks, snacks, and packaged Nepali treats.
24 hours
CG Fast Food
Fast Food
International Terminal (Landside)
Nepali fast food chain with burgers, wraps, and local snacks. Budget-friendly.
06:00-21:00
Airport Restaurant (International)
Nepali/Indian
International Terminal (Airside)
Main dining area serving dal bhat (Nepali set meal), Indian curries, Chinese dishes, and Western food. Try the momos (dumplings).
24 hours
Domestic Terminal Canteen
Nepali/Mixed
Domestic Terminal (Landside)
Simple canteen serving dal bhat, momos, chow mein, and tea. Very affordable.
05:00-20:00
Car Rental
Sixt Nepal
Airport area, free pickup
Self-drive not recommended in Kathmandu. Hire a car with driver for stress-free travel. Daily rates are affordable.
Himalayan Car Rental
Gaushala, 10 minutes from airport
Local company with experienced drivers who know mountain roads. Good for multi-day trips to Pokhara, Chitwan, or Nagarkot.
Nepal Vehicle Rental
Airport area
Range of vehicles from cars to 4WDs. Driver included and recommended for safety.
Pathao (Ride-hailing)
App-based, pick up at terminal
Nepal's leading ride-hailing app for both cars and motorcycles. Affordable and convenient in Kathmandu Valley.
What to Do During a Layover
Explore the City
These activities require leaving the airport. Make sure you have valid visa and enough time before your next flight.
Boudhanath Stupa Visit
Visit the magnificent Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest in the world and a center of Tibetan Buddhism. Walk clockwise with pilgrims, spin prayer wheels, and enjoy rooftop cafe views. Just 10 minutes from the airport.
Pashupatinath Temple
Observe Hindu cremation ceremonies on the ghats of the Bagmati River at this sacred UNESCO World Heritage temple complex. A profound cultural experience unique to Kathmandu.
Everest Mountain Flight
Take a stunning 1-hour scenic flight along the Himalayan range with close-up views of Mount Everest. Available early morning, weather permitting. Departs from the domestic terminal.
Nepali Momo Tasting Tour
Sample Nepal's beloved momos (dumplings) at local restaurants in Thamel or Boudha. Try steamed, fried, and jhol (soup) momos with fiery chili sauce.
Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)
Climb the 365 steps to the hilltop stupa with its iconic Buddha eyes. Panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley and playful monkeys along the way.
Kathmandu Durbar Square
Explore the historic royal square with ancient Newari temples, palaces, and the living goddess Kumari. Despite earthquake damage, it remains captivating.
Practical Information
WiFi & Connectivity
- Free WiFi: Yes (15 minutes)
- Power Outlets: Type C, Type D, Type M (Indian/Nepali)
- SIM Cards: Available for purchase
Services
- Left Luggage: NPR 200-400 per item per day
- Medical Services: Available
- Prayer Rooms: Available
Family Facilities
- Children's Play Areas
- Nursing Rooms
- Family Restrooms
Money & Currency
- Currency: Nepalese Rupee (NPR)
Smoking Areas
Designated areas outside terminal buildings
Facilities & Contact
Official Website
Phone
+977 1 4113019