Surkhet Airport

Airport Features and Advantages

Surkhet Airport plays a strategic role in the region, acting as the main hub for supplies and passenger transport to inaccessible mountain areas such as Jumla, Simikot, and Dolpa. For tourists, this means the opportunity to reach unique trekking routes, bypassing long and tiring journeys on mountain roads.

In recent years, the airport's infrastructure has been significantly modernised. The extension and asphalt paving of the runway has allowed for the accommodation of larger aircraft such as the ATR-72, making flights more reliable and comfortable. Furthermore, the airport's proximity to the city centre of Birendranagar (just a few minutes' drive) makes logistics for travellers maximally convenient and simple.

Obtaining current contact information for a small regional airport like Surkhet Airport can be challenging. The main interaction with passengers is conducted by the airlines operating the flights. Below are general recommendations and contact details.

• Official Website: As a rule, small airports in Nepal do not have their own websites. Main information regarding airport status is published on the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) portal.
• Inquiry Service Phone: A direct public phone number for the airport is often absent or difficult to find. For all questions related to schedules, tickets, and flight status, it is recommended to contact your airline directly.
• Airport Address: Birendranagar, Surkhet District, Karnali Province, Nepal.
• Email: There is no specialised email for passengers. For official enquiries, one should contact CAAN.
• Social Media: Surkhet Airport does not have official pages on social networks. Follow updates on the pages of airlines flying to this destination (e.g., Buddha Air, Yeti Airlines).
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, you must immediately contact the representative of the airline on whose flight you arrived. It is the carrier that bears responsibility for the search and compensation.
• Passenger Support Contacts: All issues regarding booking, ticket changes, check-in, and special requests are resolved through your airline's support service.

Surkhet Airport (SKH) is located in the immediate vicinity of the city of Birendranagar, the administrative centre of Surkhet. Thanks to the compact size of the city, reaching the terminal from the centre is quick and can be done in several ways. The choice of transport depends on your budget, amount of luggage, and personal preferences. On average, the trip from the city centre to the airport takes about 15–20 minutes.

Public Transport is the most budget-friendly option for travellers. Local buses and three-wheeled auto-rickshaws ("tempos") circulate around the city and can take you to the airport area. This method suits those travelling light and wishing to save money. However, please note that schedules may be inaccurate, and the transport can be crowded. There is no metro or railway service in Surkhet.

Taxi or Private Transfer is the most convenient and popular way to get to the airport. Taxis can easily be found on the city streets or ordered at your hotel reception. This is the best choice if you have heavy luggage or are travelling with family. The cost of the trip will be higher than by bus but remains quite reasonable. Important tip: always negotiate the price with the driver before starting the trip, as taximeters are not always used.

For those who prefer to manage their own time, car rental is available. This gives maximum freedom of movement around the city and surroundings. However, it is worth remembering that road traffic in Nepal can be quite chaotic and requires confidence and experience from the driver. If you arrive at the airport in a private or rented car, there is parking at the terminal where a free space can usually be found.

Surkhet Airport (SKH) is a small regional airport serving domestic flights. Its infrastructure is simple and functional, making navigation intuitive even for those visiting for the first time.

The airport operates one passenger terminal, which simultaneously serves both departing and arriving passengers. The terminal building is compact, and all key zones are within walking distance of each other. The airport layout is extremely simple: after entering the terminal, you will immediately see the check-in counters, followed by the security screening area and a small waiting hall for departing passengers. The arrival area is located in the same part of the building and consists of a baggage claim hall.

Due to the airport's compact size, moving between zones takes mere minutes. There are no complex corridors or needs for shuttles here, unlike in major international hubs. All procedures, from check-in to boarding, take place in one common space.

The check-in process and security control at Surkhet Airport usually proceed very quickly. Typically, this takes no more than 20-30 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1-1.5 hours before departure to complete all formalities and check in luggage without haste. The main advice for navigation is to follow the signs, but even without them, getting lost here is practically impossible.

Surkhet Airport (SKH) is not just a runway, but a true aerial gateway to the remote western regions of Nepal, possessing a rich and significant history. Its official opening took place in 1966, when the first test flight was conducted, marking the beginning of air communication with the city of Surkhet and the entire Karnali Province. Initially, it was a simple airfield with a dirt strip intended for small aircraft.

Since its foundation, the airport has played a strategic role in the life of the region. It became a key link for supplying and supporting inaccessible mountain areas that were practically cut off from the rest of the country. A crucial stage in its development was the asphalting of the runway. This modernisation significantly increased flight safety and allowed for flights year-round, regardless of weather conditions, which was critical for ensuring humanitarian and logistical missions.

In recent decades, Surkhet Airport continues to develop to meet the growing passenger flow and requirements of modern aviation. Works have been carried out to update the terminal and navigation equipment. Today, plans for further expansion of the runway are being actively discussed and implemented, which will allow for the accommodation of larger aircraft, such as the ATR-72, and an increase in the number of flights. This opens new perspectives for both local residents and tourists.

One of the airport's main achievements is its status as a vital hub for flights to the most remote corners of Nepal, including destinations such as Jumla, Simikot, Dolpa, and Mugu. For many travellers, this is the main starting point for trekking and exploring the national park and Rara Lake. Thus, over more than half a century of its history, Surkhet Airport has transformed from a modest airfield into an indispensable transport artery, connecting people and revealing the unique beauty of western Nepal to the world.

Surkhet Airport (SKH) is a small domestic airport serving the eponymous region in Nepal. Given its size and status, the range of services here is focused on meeting the basic needs of passengers awaiting their flights.

The terminal building has a small waiting hall, as well as several kiosks where you can purchase light snacks, bottled water, tea, and refreshing drinks. The selection is limited, so one should not count on a full lunch or shopping. Specialised VIP halls, business lounges, and conference rooms are absent at the airport.

Access to Wi-Fi may be unstable or unavailable, so it is better to have mobile internet. The number of power outlets for charging electronic devices is limited, so it is recommended to bring a portable charger. There are no bank branches or currency exchange points on the premises — all financial operations are best completed beforehand in the city.

Special services, such as play areas for children or nursing rooms, are not provided. For emergency assistance, a basic medical point may be available. Passengers with reduced mobility should contact the airline in advance to request assistance and escort at the airport. There are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, however, many accommodation options can be found in the nearby city.

When planning a departure from Surkhet Airport (SKH), it is important to consider that this is a small regional airport, and the choice of catering establishments here is quite limited. Do not expect a wide variety of restaurants and cafes as in major international hubs. Nevertheless, travellers can find basic options for a snack.

Typically, a small snack bar or tea kiosk operates in the sole terminal of the airport. Such establishments are usually located in the general area before security control. Here you can purchase simple snacks such as biscuits and crisps, as well as bottled water, carbonated drinks, and, of course, traditional Nepali tea (chiya) or instant coffee.

If you are lucky, the menu may include hot dishes, for example, the instant noodles popular in Nepal called "Wai-Wai", which will be prepared for you on the spot. This is a great option for a quick and filling snack before a flight. However, specialised dietary options, such as Halal, vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free dishes, are practically impossible to find here. Passengers with strict dietary restrictions are strongly advised to bring food with them.

Having a full lunch or dinner at Surkhet Airport will not be possible. If you have time before your flight, it is best to eat at one of the numerous cafes or restaurants in the city of Surkhet itself, where the choice of dishes is significantly wider and more diverse.

Travelling through Surkhet Airport can be a pleasant start to your adventure in western Nepal. To ensure everything goes smoothly, use our tips which will help you save time, stress, and money.

Arrival Time: The airport in Surkhet mainly serves domestic flights. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 1.5-2 hours before departure. This time will be sufficient to complete check-in and pre-flight screening without haste, even taking possible queues into account.

Check-in and Security: Procedures at regional airports usually proceed faster than at major international hubs. Keep your passport and ticket (in electronic or printed form) ready. Security control is standard, so prepare electronic devices and liquids for inspection in advance.

Seat Selection: Flights in Nepal are often accompanied by breathtaking mountain views. If possible, select a window seat during online check-in. Depending on the route, you will be able to enjoy stunning panoramas of the Himalayas.

Hand Luggage: It is prohibited to carry liquids in containers exceeding 100 ml, sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances in hand luggage. Always keep documents, money, valuables, electronics, and necessary medication in your hand luggage. This is especially important in case of luggage delay or loss.

Connecting Passengers: If you have a connecting flight, for example to Kathmandu, check with the airline in advance whether you will need to collect and re-check your luggage. Allow sufficient time between flights, as weather in the mountains can be unpredictable and affect the schedule.

Customs Control: Since Surkhet Airport serves domestic flights, strict customs control is absent here. However, all passengers and luggage undergo mandatory security screening.

Saving Time and Money: Try to check in for the flight online if your airline provides such an option. Travel light to avoid extra charges for excess baggage. Prices for food and drinks at the airport may be higher, so you can bring a small snack and an empty water bottle, which can be filled after screening.

Flight Delays: Delays and cancellations of flights due to weather conditions are not uncommon in Nepal. Treat this with understanding and be prepared. Charge your phone and power bank, have a book with you, or download films. Maintain contact with airline representatives to receive current information about your departure.