Pokhara Airport

Pokhara Airport is not merely a transport hub, but a truly picturesque prelude to adventures in the Himalayas. Located in the very heart of the valley, it welcomes travellers with breathtaking views of the Annapurna mountain range and the majestic Machhapuchhre peak, which are visible right from the runway. Today, the air harbour is undergoing a massive transformation, combining the history of legendary expeditions with the comfort of a modern international terminal opened in 2023. For tourists, this is the ideal starting point: just a few minutes' drive separates the aircraft steps from the relaxing atmosphere of Phewa Lake and the lively Lakeside district.

Features and Advantages of the Airport:

• Phenomenal Views: Pokhara is rightfully considered one of the most beautiful airports in the world. The approach for landing takes place against the backdrop of snow-capped Himalayan peaks, so a window seat here is an opportunity to take the best shots of your journey even before disembarking the plane.
• Proximity to the Resort Area: The airport is surprisingly close to the tourist centre. The drive to most hotels and the promenade takes only 10–15 minutes, which eliminates tiring transfers after the flight.
• Gateway to Mustang: In addition to flights to Kathmandu, the airport serves important routes to Jomsom — a key point for trekking around Annapurna and journeys to the mysterious kingdom of Mustang.
• Modern Comfort: The new terminal offers passengers spacious waiting halls, modern check-in systems, and cafes, which has significantly raised the level of service compared to the old infrastructure.

Planning a trip through the air gateway of the city of Pokhara? Below is the essential contact information for Pokhara International Airport (PKR). We advise always checking the validity of data on official resources before departure, as it may change.

• Official Website: You will find the freshest and most complete information about flights, services, and regulations on the airport's official website: pokharaairport.gov.np.
• Inquiry Service Phone: For prompt consultations and questions, you can call the number: +977-61-590080.
• Airport Address: Pokhara 14, Kaski, Gandaki Province, Nepal.
• Email: For written enquiries, you can use the official e-mail: info.pokhara@caanepal.gov.np.
• Social Media: The airport may maintain pages on social networks. Links to them are usually placed on the main page of the official website.
• Lost Baggage Information: If you encounter loss or damage to your luggage, first address the service counter of your airline directly at the airport. Staff will provide instructions for further actions.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions related to your stay at the airport, you can contact the information service via the phone number listed above.

Getting to the airport in the city of Pokhara, a key transport hub for travellers in Nepal, is quite simple thanks to its close location to the main tourist districts. The airport is located just a few kilometres from the popular Lakeside promenade, making the journey to it quick and convenient. The choice of transport depends on your budget, amount of luggage, and personal preferences.

Taxi and Private Transfer — the most popular and convenient way to get to the airport. A trip from the Lakeside or Damside area will take only 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. The cost of the trip is not high, but it is always worth negotiating with the driver in advance to avoid misunderstandings. There are plenty of taxis in tourist zones, so finding a car will not be difficult. Many hotels also offer transfer services for their guests, which can be a convenient option.

Public Transport in Pokhara is represented by local buses. This is the most budget-friendly option, however, it may not be the most comfortable, especially if you have a lot of luggage. Buses are often overcrowded, and their routes and schedules can be unclear for tourists. There is no metro or railway service in the city, so the bus is the only alternative to a taxi within public transport.

Car or Scooter Rental is less common for trips to the airport but may be relevant if you have rented transport to explore the surroundings of Pokhara. The airport provides parking where you can leave a car or scooter for a time. Given the availability and low cost of taxis, renting transport exclusively for the road to the airport is not practical.

Features and Recommendations: The uniqueness of Pokhara Airport lies in the fact that from some hotels in the southern part of Lakeside, you can reach it on foot in 20-30 minutes. This option is excellent for travellers with a light backpack. For most tourists, the optimal choice remains a taxi, combining speed, comfort, and a reasonable price. It is recommended to leave for the airport with a little time to spare, especially during the peak season.

Pokhara Airport serves as the main gateway for trekking in the Annapurna region, however, for travel to other parts of Nepal and neighbouring countries, other air harbours can also be considered. Among them are Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, as well as regional airports such as Gautam Buddha Airport (Bhairahawa) and Simara. For trips to India, the nearest major option is Gorakhpur Airport.

The International Airport of Pokhara (PKR) is a modern and compact aviation hub that significantly simplifies travel to this picturesque region of Nepal. The airport consists of one main terminal which serves both international and domestic flights. Such an integrated structure makes navigation for passengers intuitively clear and fast, eliminating the need for complex transfers between different buildings.

The terminal layout is simple and logical. Entering the building, you find yourself in the Check-in Hall, where airline counters are located. After receiving a boarding pass and checking in luggage, passengers proceed to pre-flight security screening. Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated. The Departure Zone is located after security control and consists of a general waiting hall with boarding gates. The Arrival Zone is located separately and includes immigration control counters (for international flights), baggage claim belts, and customs control.

Thanks to the compact size of the airport, completing all formalities usually does not take much time. Registration and screening procedures usually proceed faster than in major global hubs. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance: approximately 1.5–2 hours before a domestic flight and 2–3 hours before an international one. This time will be sufficient to pass all stages without haste and find your boarding gate.

Navigation through the terminal will not cause difficulties. Signs are displayed in Nepali and English, and airport staff are always ready to assist. Since all main zones — check-in, security, waiting hall — are located sequentially, it is practically impossible to get lost. Simply follow the standard route: from the entrance to the check-in counter, then to security, and into the departure hall.

Pokhara Airport (PKR), officially opened on July 4, 1958, has a rich and important history inextricably linked with the rise of Pokhara as the tourist capital of Nepal. Initially, it was built on the initiative of the Indian government to ensure transport accessibility for the region and consisted of a simple grass runway. In those years, reaching Pokhara by land was extremely difficult, and the airfield became a real breakthrough.

A major stage of development was the paving of the runway, which allowed for the reception of larger and faster aircraft, such as the Douglas DC-3. From that moment, the airport turned into a key gateway for trekkers and mountaineers heading to the famous Annapurna region. For decades, it was one of the busiest domestic airports in the country, playing a decisive role not only in tourism but also in supplying remote mountain villages.

The main historical event that determined the fate of the old airport was the decision to build a new, modern air harbour. The old airport (PKR) had significant limitations: a short runway, impossibility of expansion due to surrounding urban development, and difficult terrain complicating the landing of large aircraft. All this made it incapable of receiving international flights.

From January 1, 2023, all commercial flights were transferred to the new Pokhara International Airport. The old airport was not closed completely. Today, it begins a new chapter of its history: it is planned to be used for Short Take-Off and Landing (STOL) flights to hard-to-reach areas, helicopter excursions, as well as a training base for pilots. Thus, it continues to serve the aviation of Nepal, but in a new capacity.

Pokhara Airport (PKR), being an important gateway to one of the most picturesque regions of Nepal, offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable start or end to their journey. The modern infrastructure of the terminal is oriented towards convenience and hospitality, ensuring your stay here is as pleasant as possible.

For those who wish to have a snack or do some shopping, there are several options at the airport. You can drink a cup of aromatic Nepali tea or coffee in one of the local cafes, as well as try light snacks. The shops present a wide selection of souvenirs: from traditional handmade items to famous cashmere shawls. For passengers on international flights, Duty Free shops are available.

For a more comfortable wait for a flight, Pokhara Airport provides VIP halls and business lounges. Here passengers can relax in a quiet environment, enjoy complimentary beverages and snacks, as well as fresh press. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and numerous charging stations for electronic devices are located in waiting halls and lounges.

Financial services are represented by currency exchange counters and ATMs, where you can easily exchange money for Nepalese rupees or withdraw cash. This is especially convenient for tourists arriving in the country. In case of necessity, passengers can turn to the medical point, where first aid will be provided.

The airport is equipped to receive passengers with special needs. Ramps, specially equipped toilets, and the possibility to request wheelchair assistance are provided (it is recommended to notify the airline in advance). For travellers with small children, there are mother and child rooms where you can take care of your baby in a calm atmosphere.

Although there are no hotels directly within the terminal territory, numerous hotels to suit any taste and budget — from cosy guesthouses to comfortable hotels — are located in the immediate vicinity of the airport. Specialized conference halls may not be present at the airport, however, basic business services, such as workspaces and internet access, are often provided in VIP lounges.

At Pokhara Airport, travellers can find several convenient options for a snack or a full meal. Although the selection here is not as large as in major international hubs, you will not have to go hungry. The main establishments are concentrated in the public zone before security control, while in the departure zone, there are several points for a quick bite.

In the main terminal, in the landside area, small cafes are located where you can have lunch or dinner without haste. Here you will have the opportunity to order local cuisine dishes. This is an excellent option if you want to try authentic Nepali `Dal Bhat` (a traditional dish of rice, lentil soup, and vegetables) or filling `Momo` (steamed dumplings with various fillings) one last time. It is also a convenient place to spend time with those seeing you off.

After passing security control, in the airside zone, the choice is more limited. Small coffee shops and kiosks operate here, offering `quick snacks`: sandwiches, pastries, crisps, and sweets. This is the ideal place to grab a cup of coffee, aromatic tea, or a refreshing beverage right before boarding the flight.

If you want to experience local flavour, be sure to order a cup of `Nepali Masala Tea` — a warming and spicy drink. `Vegetarian dishes` are widely available as they are an integral part of local cuisine; you will easily find vegetable momos or vegetarian curry. Information regarding `vegan, gluten-free, or Halal` options is best clarified directly with the establishment's staff, as specific labelling may be absent.

Prices at the airport are expectedly `higher than in the city`, but remain acceptable by the standards of tourist facilities. Most cafes and restaurants operate in accordance with the flight schedule — from early morning until the departure of the last aircraft. This gives a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the final taste of hospitable Nepal before returning home.

Travelling through the airport of the city of Pokhara is your gateway to the Himalayan peaks and picturesque lakes of Nepal. To ensure your flight goes smoothly, use these tips which will help save time, nerves, and money.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 1.5–2 hours before departure. Although the airport is not as large as the capital's, during the peak tourist season, queues for check-in and security can be significant. For international flights, allow at least 3 hours. Keep your passport and ticket handy to speed up the process.

Seat Selection on the Plane. This is one of the most important tips for flights in this region! If you are flying from Kathmandu to Pokhara, choose a window seat on the right side of the aircraft. If you are flying from Pokhara to Kathmandu — on the left side. It is from these angles that a breathtaking view of the Himalayas opens up, including the famous Annapurna massif. Do not miss this opportunity to take unique shots!

Baggage Regulations. Standards for hand luggage mainly correspond to international ones: restrictions on carrying liquids (up to 100 ml in one container), sharp and cutting objects. Please note that trekking poles are most often required to be checked in as luggage. If you are unsure, it is better to clarify the rules with your airline in advance.

For Passengers with Connections. Most flights from Pokhara are domestic. If you have an international connection planned in Kathmandu, allow sufficient time between flights. Delays due to weather are not uncommon, so a buffer of 4-5 hours will help avoid unnecessary stress.

Customs Control. Upon arrival by international flight at the new Pokhara airport, you will have to undergo standard customs procedures. Fill out all necessary declarations in advance and be ready to answer questions about the purpose of your visit and the contents of your luggage. There is no customs control on domestic flights.

Saving Time and Money. Book flight tickets in advance, especially if your trip falls during the high season (autumn and spring), as prices rise and seats run out quickly. It is better to order a taxi from the airport at the official counter or use apps to avoid inflated prices.

What to do in case of flight delay? The main reason for flight delays and cancellations in this region is unpredictable weather conditions in the mountains. Remain calm and stay in touch with airline representatives. It is useful to have a flexible travel schedule and travel insurance covering such cases. There are cafes and waiting areas in the airport where you can spend time in comfort.