โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
30
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
International โ Domestic
90
minutes
International โ International
120
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Pokhara's original domestic airport continues specialized STOL (Short Takeoff and Landing) operations for mountain flights to Jomsom despite the January 2023 opening of Pokhara International Airport, which assumed most commercial traffic. Established in July 1958, this legacy facility maintains its critical role serving the challenging Jomsom route where aircraft must navigate the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the world's deepest gorge, requiring specialized aircraft and experienced mountain pilots who operate exclusively in early morning hours before dangerous afternoon winds develop.
The terminal remains operational specifically for Jomsom flights operated by Tara Air, Summit Airlines, and Nepal Airlines, with typically 3-5 departures scheduled between 6:00 AM and 10:00 AM daily. These 20-25 minute flights covering 68 kilometers represent one of Nepal's most spectacular yet technically demanding aviation routes, threading between Dhaulagiri and Annapurna peaks while dealing with rapidly changing mountain weather conditions. The small apron accommodates up to eight propeller aircraft simultaneously, primarily Twin Otters and similar STOL-capable planes essential for Jomsom's short, high-altitude runway.
Operational limitations at the old airport reflect both its infrastructure constraints and the unique requirements of mountain aviation. Morning visibility provides optimal conditions for Himalayan views sought by tourists, while afternoon winds frequently reach velocities that make safe operations impossible, leading to regular cancellations after 10 AM. The terminal's basic amenities serve passengers heading to Upper Mustang and the Annapurna Circuit, with most travelers being trekkers, pilgrims visiting Muktinath Temple, or locals from the remote Mustang district requiring air access when road conditions deteriorate.
The retention of PKR airport for Jomsom operations demonstrates practical aviation requirements superseding infrastructure modernization, as the new international airport's location and approach patterns prove unsuitable for the specialized mountain flying required. This division of operations - with PHH handling mainstream domestic and international flights while PKR maintains mountain services - reflects Nepal's complex aviation geography where modern facilities cannot always replace established operational patterns developed over decades of Himalayan flying experience.
๐ Connection Tips
Pokhara Airport (PKR), now serving primarily domestic flights, is located right in the heart of the city. Ground transport is plentiful; official airport taxis meet every arrival and take only 10-15 minutes to reach the popular Lakeside district for a fixed fare of roughly 500-800 NPR. A unique connection tip: for most travelers, the standard 'connection' to the Annapurna trekking circuit is via a pre-arranged private Jeep from Lakeside.
The terminal is functional but can be crowded during peak trekking seasons (Oct-Nov). A significant 2026 update: most international and larger domestic traffic has moved to the new Pokhara International Airport (PRW); ensure you verify which terminal your carrier uses The border-edge location means a fixed pickup is worth more than a long search for local transport.
Facilities include basic cafes and souvenir shops selling local handicrafts. Ensure you have cash (NPR) Because the airport is near the Tibetan plateau, a simple pickup plan is worth more than a last-minute search for public transport. A confirmed ride keeps the route usable, especially when the airport is acting as the entry point to the Tibetan edge of the region. For the Himalayan edge of the region, the airport is best thought of as a quick local gateway with a ride already waiting. A ready pickup is what keeps the airport useful on the Himalayan edge of the region.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
75
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Bharatpur Airport (BHR) is one of the busiest domestic aviation hubs in Nepal, serving as the primary gateway to the Chitwan District and the world-renowned Chitwan National Park. Located in the heart of the Terai region, the airport features a 1,158-meter asphalt runway that accommodates frequent short-haul flights from Kathmandu and Pokhara. It is a vital piece of infrastructure for both the local business community in Bharatpurโthe country's fourth-largest cityโand the thousands of international tourists who arrive annually to embark on wildlife safaris to see the region's famous one-horned rhinoceroses and Bengal tigers.
The airport is currently undergoing a significant modernization phase, with the foundation stone for a new, state-of-the-art terminal building laid in 2023. This project aims to replace the existing modest structure with a more spacious facility equipped with modern check-in counters, expanded waiting lounges, and improved passenger flow to handle the increasing volume of air traffic. While the new terminal is under construction, the current facility provides essential services including centralized check-in and basic security screening. Boarding is typically conducted via a short walk across the apron to the aircraft, often a Beechcraft 1900 or ATR-42 regional liner.
Amenities within the current terminal are functional and include free Wi-Fi and baggage trolleys for passenger convenience. While there are no on-site ATMs, currency exchange, or duty-free shops, a small snack bar offers refreshments and local items. Travelers are advised that full-service banking and extensive dining options are available in the nearby Bharatpur city center, just a few minutes' drive from the terminal. Ground transportation is readily accessible, with taxis and pre-arranged hotel shuttles frequently waiting outside the arrivals exit to transport guests to the various jungle lodges in Sauraha and other parts of the Chitwan region.
๐ Connection Tips
Connecting through Bharatpur Airport (BHR) is a central part of any journey to Nepal's Terai region, specifically for those heading to the jungle lodges of Sauraha and Chitwan National Park. As of 2026, the airport is in the midst of a significant modernization project, including the construction of a large, state-of-the-art terminal and a runway extension. Most travelers arrive here on short, 25-minute domestic flights from Kathmandu (KTM) or Pokhara (PKR) operated by Buddha Air or Yeti Airlines. A useful tip for those flying from Kathmandu: try to sit on the right side of the aircraft for breathtaking views of the Manaslu and Ganesh Himal mountain ranges.
Because BHR currently operates under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) and lacks night landing facilities, it is essential to plan your connections for the morning or early afternoon. Flights are frequently delayed or cancelled during the winter due to morning fog or during the monsoon season (June to September) due to heavy rain and low visibility. If you have an international flight departing from Kathmandu, it is highly recommended to return to the capital at least one day in advance to avoid missing your connection. Within the terminal, be prepared for manual security screenings and a functional but basic environment.
Taxis are readily available outside the arrivals area for the 30-to-45-minute drive to Sauraha. Always keep your boarding pass accessible until you exit the terminal, as you will likely need to present it to claim your checked baggage. With the ongoing expansion, the airport will soon accommodate larger ATR-72 aircraft and night flights, which is expected to improve schedule reliability significantly.
โ Back to Pokhara Airport (Domestic)