Welcome to Trek Me Nepal: your trusted companion for unforgettable Himalayan adventures. Whether you're coming for the majestic Everest Base Camp trek or the tranquil Annapurna trails, the journey begins with your arrival in Nepal.

This article is your complete guide to the international airlines flying to Nepal, helping you choose the best flight to land in the heart of the Himalayas.

Existing International Airlines operating in Nepal

Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA): Nepal’s International Gateway

Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), located in Kathmandu, is Nepal’s only international airport, acting as the primary entry point for travelers from across the globe. Established in 1955 AD and named after King Tribhuvan, the airport connects Nepal to major cities in Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.

Despite its limitations such as a single runway and occasional congestion, modernization and expansion projects are underway to enhance the passenger experience and increase capacity. For travelers visiting Nepal with Trek Me Nepal, TIA is the first chapter of your adventure!

A Brief History of TIA

Originally known as Gauchar Airport, TIA saw its first international flight in 1957. Since then, it has evolved into a crucial aviation hub, handling millions of passengers annually. Recent upgrades include improved safety systems, expanded parking bays, and ongoing terminal expansions to welcome the increasing number of tourists visiting Nepal.

List of International Airlines Operating in Nepal

At Trek Me Nepal, we welcome guests from all over the world. Below is a comprehensive list of the top international airlines flying to Kathmandu, along with their history, hubs, and benefits. Each airline entry is followed by a quick facts table to help you choose wisely.

Nepal, home to the majestic Himalayas, is a dream destination for adventure seekers, trekkers, and cultural explorers. As a premier trekking company focused on inbound tourism, Trek Me Nepal welcomes global travelers through Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), Kathmandu — the only international airport in the country.

To help you plan your adventure, we’ve created this comprehensive guide to all international airlines operating in Nepal. Whether you're flying in from the Middle East, Europe, or Southeast Asia, there's an airline to bring you closer to your Himalayan dreams.

1. Air Arabia Abu Dhabi

Air Arabia Abu Dhabi connects Abu Dhabi directly to Kathmandu with affordable flights. Known for its punctuality and budget-friendly fares, it’s a popular option among Middle Eastern travelers and expats.

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2. Air Arabia

Air Arabia, based in Sharjah, UAE, offers one of the most frequent low-cost connections to Nepal. Ideal for both leisure and labor travelers, it provides flexibility and convenience.

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3. Air China

A full-service Chinese carrier, Air China connects Beijing to Kathmandu. It's a great choice for travelers combining Nepal with a broader Asia itinerary.

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4. Air India

Air India is one of the oldest international carriers to serve Nepal. With flights from Delhi and other Indian cities, it's a top choice for Indian tourists and pilgrims visiting Lumbini.

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5. Biman Bangladesh Airlines Ltd.

Biman operates regular flights from Dhaka to Kathmandu. It’s widely used by Bangladeshi travelers visiting Nepal for religious tourism and holidays.

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6. Buddha Air Pvt. Ltd.

Although primarily a domestic airline, Buddha Air offers a few international connections, such as to Varanasi and Kolkata. It’s known for high safety and local expertise.

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7. Cathay Pacific Airways

Connecting Nepal to Hong Kong and beyond, Cathay Pacific is a premium airline offering great service for travelers heading to/from East Asia and Oceania.

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8. China Eastern Airlines

This airline offers affordable travel between Kunming and Kathmandu, ideal for travelers exploring both China and Nepal.

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9. China Southern Airlines

Providing smooth connections between Guangzhou and Kathmandu, China Southern is widely used by students and business travelers.

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10. Druk Air (Royal Bhutan Airlines)

Druk Air connects Bhutan to Nepal and is an excellent choice for travelers combining trips to Bhutan and the Everest region.

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11. FlyDubai

One of the most popular budget airlines serving the Middle East-Nepal route, FlyDubai connects Kathmandu with Dubai and beyond.

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12. Himalaya Airlines Pvt. Ltd.

A Nepal-based international carrier, Himalaya Airlines connects Kathmandu to cities like Doha, Dubai, Kuala Lumpur, and Dammam. It offers reliable service and is a rising favorite among Nepali expats and foreign tourists alike.

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13. IndiGo (InterGlobe Aviation Ltd.)

India’s leading low-cost carrier, IndiGo operates frequent flights from major Indian cities to Kathmandu. Perfect for Indian tourists visiting Pashupatinath, Muktinath, or Lumbini.

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14. Jazeera Airways

This Kuwait-based low-cost airline offers direct connections from Kuwait to Kathmandu, catering especially to Nepali workers and Middle East-based tourists.

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15. Korean Air

Connecting Seoul to Kathmandu, Korean Air provides excellent full-service flights, appealing to luxury travelers and cultural tourists from South Korea and East Asia.

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16. Kuwait Airways

A full-service airline offering direct flights from Kuwait to Kathmandu, it provides added comfort for long-haul passengers from the Middle East.

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17. Malaysia Airlines

Malaysia Airlines connects Southeast Asia and Oceania with Nepal via Kuala Lumpur. Ideal for trekkers combining Nepal with travel to Malaysia, Thailand, or Australia.

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18. Batik Air (formerly Malindo Air)

Batik Air offers affordable and frequent connections from Malaysia to Nepal. It’s ideal for budget travelers from Southeast Asia.

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19. Nepal Airlines Corporation

The national flag carrier of Nepal, Nepal Airlines operates international flights to Delhi, Doha, Dubai, Kuala Lumpur, Narita, and more. Its unique in-flight ambiance gives visitors their first taste of Nepal.

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20. Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways connects Kathmandu to over 160 global destinations through Doha. Known for luxury and seamless international transit, it’s a top choice for European and American tourists.

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21. Sichuan Airlines

A Chinese airline operating flights from Chengdu to Kathmandu, Sichuan Airlines is ideal for those combining a Nepal-China cultural or trekking itinerary.

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22. Singapore Airlines

Among the most luxurious options, Singapore Airlines offers smooth travel from Southeast Asia and Oceania to Nepal via one of the world's top-rated airports.

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23. SriLankan Airlines

Connecting Colombo to Kathmandu, SriLankan Airlines is ideal for spiritual travelers exploring Buddhist pilgrimage routes through Nepal and Sri Lanka.

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24. Bhutan Airlines (Tashi Air)

Bhutan Airlines links Paro and Kathmandu. Perfect for Himalayan explorers combining treks in both Nepal and Bhutan.

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25. Thai Lion Air

A budget option connecting Bangkok to Kathmandu, Thai Lion Air is great for backpackers and Thai travelers.

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26. Thai Airways International

Offering a premium connection between Bangkok and Kathmandu, Thai Airways is trusted by many trekkers heading to the Himalayas.

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27. Turkish Airlines

Connecting Istanbul to Kathmandu, Turkish Airlines is one of the best options for European travelers heading to Nepal.

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28. Thai AirAsia

A low-cost carrier flying from Bangkok to Kathmandu, Thai AirAsia is ideal for flexible, budget-conscious travel.

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29. Air India Express

A subsidiary of Air India, this airline offers low-cost flights from South Indian cities to Nepal, perfect for spiritual and family tourism.

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30. SpiceJet

SpiceJet is one of the most active budget carriers flying from India to Nepal. Its affordable fares attract many regional tourists.

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Final Thoughts from Trek Me Nepal

No matter where in the world you’re coming from, there's an airline ready to take you to Nepal. Once you land in Kathmandu, Trek Me Nepal will handle everything — from airport pickup to your bucket-list trek to Everest Base Camp, Annapurna, Langtang, and beyond.

Let the journey begin — we’re ready when you are.

 Summary Comparison Table of International Airlines Flying to Nepal

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Which international airlines fly to Kathmandu, Nepal?

Over 30 international airlines operate flights to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, including Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Air India, and Nepal Airlines.

2. What is the best airline for trekking tourists coming from Europe?

Turkish Airlines and Qatar Airways are excellent options for European trekkers, offering smooth connections and high comfort to Kathmandu.

3. What’s the cheapest airline from India to Nepal?

IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Air India Express often offer the most affordable fares for routes from Indian cities like Delhi and Kolkata to Kathmandu.

4. Does Nepal have its own international airline?

Yes! Nepal Airlines Corporation is the national flag carrier, flying to destinations including Delhi, Dubai, Kuala Lumpur, and Tokyo.

5. How do I book a trekking package in Nepal after I arrive?

You can book your package with Trek Me Nepal directly here. We offer Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, Langtang Valley, and more.

Responsible Travel with Trek Me Nepal: One Guest One Tree

At Trek Me Nepal, we believe in responsible tourism. Through our CSR initiative "One Guest One Tree," every trekker who travels with us contributes to planting a tree in the Himalayas — helping preserve the beauty of Nepal for future generations.

 Learn more about One Guest One Tree.

Conclusion

Nepal welcomes travelers from across the globe through a diverse and growing network of international airlines. Whether you are flying from the bustling streets of Bangkok, the deserts of Doha, or the cultural capitals of Europe — reaching the heart of the Himalayas has never been easier.

Once you arrive, Trek Me Nepal is here to make your adventure unforgettable. From airport pick-ups to expert-guided treks, personalized itineraries, and our eco-friendly travel commitment, we are your trusted partner in the mountains.

Let’s create your Himalayan story together.

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