How to Get to Pokhara. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel

Airports and Airlines

Air travel offers the quickest way to reach Pokhara, especially from Kathmandu. Nepal has a network of domestic airlines.

Air Hubs and Carriers

Pokhara International Airport (PKR) handles domestic flights (mainly from Kathmandu) and limited international flights.
Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu serves as Nepal's main international gateway.
Domestic airlines: Buddha Air, Yeti Airlines, Shree Airlines, Saurya Airlines, Guna Airlines, Summit Air, Sita Air.

Flight Routes and Seasonal Costs

The most common flight path is from Kathmandu (KTM) to Pokhara (PKR), a short 25-30 minute journey. Pricing changes with the season.

Flight Patterns and Considerations

No direct international flights from major global hubs land at PKR currently. Connect via KTM.
Flights between KTM and PKR operate frequently, but weather (monsoon, fog) causes delays or cancellations.
Airfare is higher during peak tourist seasons (Oct-Nov, Mar-Apr). Lower during monsoon/winter low seasons. Dollar Flight Club for deals. Skyscanner for comparisons.

PKR Facilities

Pokhara International Airport offers a modern terminal, limited dining, currency exchange, and taxi services.

PKR to Lakeside

Taxis are outside PKR terminal (NPR 500-800). Hotels often offer pre-arranged airport pick-ups.

KTM to Pokhara

Domestic flight (25-30 min), tourist bus (6-8 hrs), or private car/jeep (5-7 hrs).

Transfer Options from KTM

Quickest Routes

Domestic flight from Kathmandu (KTM) to Pokhara (PKR).
Flight duration is approximately 25-30 minutes.
Private car or jeep delivers a comfortable and direct journey.
Private journeys by automobile time is about 5-7 hours, costing US$70-150.

Budget-Friendly and Scenic Routes

Tourist buses from Kathmandu's Tourist Bus Park to Pokhara.
Bus journey is around 6-8 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Bus costs range from NPR 800-2500, varying with bus quality.
The bus ride offers scenic views of the Nepalese countryside.

Departure Information

Exit Fees

Nepal does not impose specific exit fees or taxes beyond what your airline ticket includes.

Departure Timing

For domestic flights from PKR, arrive no later THAN 1 hour before departure. For tourist buses, arrive 30 minutes prior.

Facilities

PKR has basic waiting areas, limited shops/cafes. Tourist bus parks have simple shelters and little stores.

Land Transportation

Border Crossings & Trains

Nepal is not on the coast, so land entry happens via borders with India and Tibet (China). No direct train service reaches Pokhara.

Land Entry & Train Connections

India-Nepal borders: Sunauli (from Gorakhpur/Varanasi) and Raxaul (from Patna/Kolkata).
Nearest major railhead is Gorakhpur, India. From there, take a bus/taxi to the Sunauli border.
These crossings are for entry into Nepal, then arrange further transport to Pokhara.

Long-Distance Buses

Tourist buses connect Pokhara to major cities. Local buses are less expensive but slower.

Bus Services and Hubs

Tourist buses connect Pokhara to Kathmandu, Chitwan (Sauraha), and Lumbini. Companies like Greenline, Jagadamba, Bluebird.
Tourist buses offer various levels of service: standard to luxury AC buses.
Departure/arrival points: Pokhara's Tourist Bus Park (Prithvi Chowk), some services from Lakeside.

Self-Driving Considerations

Nepalese roads are challenging.

Driving in Nepal

An IDP is needed, with a valid national driving license.
Roads are narrow, winding, unpaved sections, heavy traffic, and poor signage.
Self-driving is not for inexperienced drivers due to high accident rates. Consider DiscoverCars.com if you choose to drive.

Road Conditions & Safety

The Prithvi Highway (Kathmandu-Pokhara) is mostly paved but features several curves and heavy traffic.

Driving Safety Measures

Landslides can affect the highway, especially during monsoon season, causing delays.
Road conditions vary greatly, from paved to gravel/dirt tracks.
Drive defensively. Watch for pedestrians, animals, and other vehicles. Avoid night driving.

Sea/River Arrivals

Nepal is a landlocked country.
No direct access to the sea.
No sea or river arrivals are feasible for international travel to Pokhara.

Inland location implies no coastal access.
All international travel is via air or land borders.
Focus on air and land options for arrival.

Flight Booking Tip

Booking domestic flights in advance, especially during peak season, secures better rates and availability.

How to Get to Pokhara