Nepalgunj Airport (KEP)

Nepalgunj Airport (KEP) has recently transitioned into a modern aviation hub following the completion of its state-of-the-art terminal building in late 2025. This significantly expanded three-story facility, covering approximately 5,075 square meters, serves as the premier gateway to the Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces of Nepal. The airport is now designed to handle up to 1,600 passengers per hour during peak times, reflecting its growing importance as a domestic hub and its readiness for future international and cross-border operations to major Indian cities like New Delhi and Lucknow. The terminal's layout is vertically organized to optimize passenger flow and commercial activity. The ground floor serves as the primary hub for passenger handling, featuring 14 modern check-in counters and a secure security screening zone equipped with advanced X-ray systems. A semi-basement level is dedicated to commercial purposes, housing 24 retail shops and service outlets that cater to both travelers and visitors. The first floor features expansive passenger lounges and three high-standard VIP rooms, all accessible via four escalators and three elevators, ensuring full accessibility for passengers with reduced mobility. Amenities within the new Nepalgunj terminal provide world-class services while maintaining energy efficiency through a unique 'open-to-sky' dome that maximizes natural light. To combat the region's high seasonal heat, the facility is equipped with a specialized water curtain and misting system. Families benefit from a dedicated children's play area, and the terminal provides free high-speed Wi-Fi, modern prayer rooms, and a separate utility block for reliable power and water treatment. The expanded apron can now accommodate up to eight aircraft simultaneously, including three ATR-72 sized jets and five smaller turboprops used for remote mountain flights. Ground transportation at KEP is well-coordinated with the local regional infrastructure, with the central Nepalgunj district just 6 kilometers away. Travelers can easily access the city via local taxi services, e-rickshaws, or pre-arranged hotel shuttles stationed outside the terminal exit. For those heading to the remote districts of Dolpa, Jumla, or Mugu, the airport acts as the primary staging point for both scheduled and charter 'pioneer' flights. The airport features 1,700 meters of upgraded runway with modern lighting for night flight capabilities. Travelers are generally advised to arrive at least 90 minutes before domestic flights to account for the increased passenger volume and modernized security procedures.