Bhadrapur Airport

Bhadrapur Airport, often referred to as the "aerial gateway" to the far east of Nepal, acts as a bridge connecting the bustling capital of Kathmandu with the serene tea plantations of Ilam and the green expanses of the Jhapa district. This compact yet lively aviation hub serves not merely as a transport point, but as a launchpad for fascinating journeys to the foot of the world's third-highest peak — Kanchenjunga. Despite its modest size, the airport possesses a unique provincial charm, offering tourists quick access to the Indian border and their first impressions of the hospitality found in the country's eastern regions.

Key Features and Advantages of the Airport:

Strategic Location. Bhadrapur Airport is a vital transit point for travellers heading not only to eastern Nepal but also to northeastern India. The Indian city of Siliguri, as well as the popular mountain resorts of Darjeeling and Sikkim, are just an hour's drive away. This makes it a convenient alternative to flying via the Indian airport of Bagdogra.

Gateway to Nepal's "Tea Garden". For lovers of agro-tourism and nature, Bhadrapur is the ideal arrival point. The shortest route to the picturesque Ilam district begins here, famous for its endless tea plantations, misty hills, and unique culture. The journey from the airport to the tea gardens via a winding road takes just a few hours.

Reliability and Facilities. Unlike many high-altitude airports in the country with dirt tracks, Bhadrapur boasts a fully paved runway capable of accommodating modern turboprop aircraft. Recent modernisation and the installation of navigation equipment have enabled flights to operate even after dark, significantly increasing the reliability of connections with the capital.

Calm Atmosphere. The airport is located in the Terai plains zone, at an altitude of just 91 metres above sea level. Extreme weather conditions characteristic of the Himalayas are rare here, although morning fogs are possible during the winter months. Passengers appreciate this airport for the lack of hustle, swift formalities, and friendly staff.

Below you will find contact information to help you orient yourself and plan your trip through Bhadrapur Airport (also known as Chandragadhi Airport).

• Official Website: Detailed information about Bhadrapur Airport is available on the official portal of the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN).
• Information Desk Phone: For immediate information, we recommend calling the number listed on the CAAN website or contacting your airline directly.
• Airport Address: Chandragadhi Airport, Bhadrapur, Jhapa District, Province No. 1, Nepal.
• Email: The official email address for communication can be found in the contacts section of the airport's page on the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal website.
• Social Media: The airport does not have separate official pages on social media. Current news can be found on CAAN resources.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of loss or damage to luggage, you must first contact your airline representative at the airport.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Assistance to passengers is provided by staff at information desks directly within the airport terminal.

Getting to Bhadrapur Airport, a key transport hub in the east of Nepal, is quite simple thanks to its close proximity to the city of Bhadrapur (also known as Chandragadhi). Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose from several available methods.

Public Transport. The most budget-friendly option is local buses. They run between the airport, the city centre, and neighbouring settlements. While this is the cheapest way to travel, be prepared for buses to be crowded, and schedules may not always be strictly adhered to. Travel by train or metro is not possible as there is no railway service in this region.

Taxis and Auto-Rickshaws. The most convenient and popular way to get to the airport is by taxi. A car can easily be found in any part of the city. The trip from the centre will take just 15–20 minutes. It is strongly recommended to negotiate the fare with the driver in advance, as not all taxi drivers use meters. A cheaper alternative for short distances can be three-wheeled auto-rickshaws, especially if you are travelling light.

Car Rental and Transfers. For maximum freedom of movement, you can rent a car, most often with a driver, which is a common practice in Nepal. This is an excellent option if you plan to explore the surroundings. Additionally, many hotels offer an organised transfer service to the airport for their guests. This is a reliable and comfortable method that can be booked in advance.

Parking. If you are arriving at the airport in your own or a rented vehicle, parking is available on the premises. It is suitable for both short-term and long-term stays. Given the size of the airport, the parking area is usually not overcrowded.

Features and Recommendations. For most tourists, the optimal choice would be a taxi or a pre-booked transfer, combining comfort with a reasonable price. Travellers on a limited budget may find local buses suitable. It is also worth noting that Bhadrapur Airport is located near the border with India, and many use it as a starting point for a trip to Siliguri. The major Indian Bagdogra Airport is located just 28 km away, making it a convenient alternative for international flights.

Bhadrapur Airport (BDP), also known as Chandragadhi Airport, is a compact and easy-to-navigate transport hub. It consists of one terminal that serves all domestic flights, both arrivals and departures. Thanks to the airport's small size, orienting yourself is very easy, and all necessary zones are within walking distance of each other.

The terminal structure is intuitive. Upon entry, you find yourself in the general area where check-in counters for several airlines flying from Bhadrapur are located. After receiving a boarding pass and checking in luggage, passengers pass through a single security checkpoint leading to a small waiting hall. The arrival zone is in another part of the building and consists of a simple hall with a baggage claim belt and an exit to the city.

Since the airport serves only domestic flights and has one terminal, there is no need for transfers between terminals. The entire process — from check-in to boarding — takes place in one building. This makes travelling through Bhadrapur particularly convenient for those who dislike the hustle of large airports.

Passing through registration and security at Bhadrapur Airport usually takes little time due to moderate passenger traffic. However, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1-1.5 hours before departure to complete all formalities without rushing. Navigation through the terminal is extremely simple: signs will help you quickly find the necessary zone, and staff are always ready to assist.

The history of Bhadrapur Airport (BDP), also known as Chandragadhi Airport, is closely linked to the development of the eastern region of Nepal. The airport was founded in November 1963 and initially consisted of a simple dirt runway. Its main task was to ensure transport accessibility for remote areas and support the local economy, particularly the famous tea plantations of Ilam.

A key stage in the airport's development was the modernisation in 1985, when the runway was asphalted. This allowed for the accommodation of larger and more modern aircraft, as well as significantly improving flight safety in the difficult weather conditions of the monsoon climate. In subsequent decades, the airport began to play an increasingly important role, transforming into the main air gateway for tourists heading to mountain ranges such as Kanchenjunga, and for travellers proceeding to the neighbouring Indian states of Sikkim and Darjeeling.

The most significant reconstruction occurred relatively recently — in 2014, a new modern terminal was ceremoniously opened. This event brought passenger service to a completely new level, making the stay at the airport of Bhadrapur significantly more comfortable. Today, Bhadrapur Airport is one of the busiest domestic airports in the country and continues to play a strategic role in connecting the east of Nepal with the capital and the wider world.

Bhadrapur Airport (BDP), also known as Chandragadhi Airport, is a vital air gateway for eastern Nepal. As a small regional airport, it offers a basic set of services necessary for a comfortable wait for a domestic flight.

In the terminal building, you will find several small kiosks and cafes where you can buy light snacks, sandwiches, crisps, as well as hot and cold drinks, such as tea or bottled water. The selection of restaurants and shops is limited, and there are no Duty-Free shops here, as the airport serves primarily domestic flights.

Specialised VIP halls or business lounges are absent at Bhadrapur Airport, however, a general waiting hall is available for all passengers. Access to Wi-Fi may be unstable or unavailable, and the number of power outlets for charging electronic devices is limited. It is recommended to carry a portable power bank just in case.

There are no full-service banks or currency exchange points in the terminal. The nearest ATMs and financial institutions are located in the city of Bhadrapur. Passengers are advised to exchange money and settle financial matters in advance. Basic medical services are generally limited to a first aid point. Serious cases will require a visit to medical facilities in the city.

Dedicated mother and child rooms may be absent, but airport staff are generally ready to assist passengers with children. Passengers with reduced mobility are advised to notify their airline in advance regarding the need for assistance so that airport staff can provide a wheelchair and escort them to boarding. There are no hotels directly on the airport premises, but various accommodation options can be found in the nearby city of Bhadrapur. Also, there are no conference rooms or business centres at the airport.

Bhadrapur Airport (BDP) is a compact domestic airport, so the choice of dining establishments corresponds to its size. The options are quite modest, but they are sufficient for a snack before departure. Do not expect large restaurants or international coffee chains here; the atmosphere is simpler and more authentic.

All food outlets are generally concentrated in the single terminal, in the public area before security control (landside). This means you can have a snack together with those seeing you off. Usually, these are a few small cafes or kiosks offering both packaged snacks and freshly prepared dishes.

For those wishing to try something local, this is an excellent opportunity. Often on the menu, you can find Nepali cuisine classics: momo (steamed dumplings with filling), samosas (fried pastries), chowmein (fried noodles with vegetables or chicken), and of course, traditional masala tea. This is a wonderful option for a quick and satisfying snack. For a more substantial meal, you can look for dal bhat — a traditional Nepali dish consisting of rice, lentil soup, and vegetable curry.

Regarding special dietary needs, finding vegetarian dishes will not be difficult, as they are widely common in local cuisine. However, finding certified vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes may be challenging. If you have strict dietary restrictions, it is recommended to bring food with you. Prices at the airport are quite affordable, and opening hours are usually tied to the flight schedule: they open before the first departure and close after the last one.

When planning a trip through Bhadrapur Airport (BDP), use these tips to make your journey as comfortable as possible. This regional hub is an important gateway to the eastern regions of Nepal, and knowing a few nuances will help avoid unnecessary stress.

Arrival Time at the Airport: Since Bhadrapur Airport serves only domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at least 1.5-2 hours before departure. This time will be sufficient for check-in, baggage drop, and passing security control without haste.

Check-in and Security: To save time, use online check-in if your airline provides this option. Security control at the airport follows standard rules. Be prepared to present your ID and boarding pass, as well as remove electronic devices and liquids from your hand luggage.

Choosing a Seat on the Plane: If you want to enjoy views of Nepal's picturesque landscapes during takeoff or landing, choose a window seat. For greater comfort and freedom of movement around the cabin, an aisle seat is better suited. Check the availability and cost of seat selection in advance on the airline's website.

Hand Luggage Rules: Remember the general restrictions: liquids in containers of no more than 100 ml each, packed in a single transparent bag. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited. Always check the rules of the specific airline, as they may have their own peculiarities.

Passengers with Connections: If you have a connecting flight to another city in Nepal, clarify the transit procedure in advance. It is important to know whether your luggage will be automatically transferred to the next flight or if you will need to collect it and check it in again. Leave a sufficient time buffer between flights (at least 1.5 hours) in case of unforeseen delays.

Saving Time and Money: Book flight tickets and airport transfers in advance to get the best prices. Bring an empty reusable bottle to fill with water after passing security and avoid spending on drinks. Travelling with hand luggage only, if possible, will save you both time at check-in and money on baggage fees.

In Case of Flight Delay: If your flight is delayed, first contact your airline representative for current information. Clarify if you are entitled to vouchers for food or drinks depending on the length of the delay. Having travel insurance will help compensate for unforeseen expenses.