Nepal, a landlocked country in South Asia, is a dream destination for adventure seekers, culture enthusiasts, and nature lovers. Travelers can enter Nepal by air or overland through India or China, with visa-on-arrival available at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, making entry simple and convenient.

Below is a comprehensive guide to Nepal flights and some essential tips for first-time visitors.

5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Going to Nepal

Social Etiquette in Nepal

• Greet locals with palms together in a prayer style and say “Namaste” or “Namaskar”.

• Use “Dai” for men and “Didi” for women.

• Avoid stepping over someone’s outstretched legs or touching anyone with your feet.

• Dress modestly; revealing clothing is frowned upon, and bikinis should be avoided in public pools.

• Public displays of affection are considered inappropriate.

• If invited to a Nepali home:

  • Remove your shoes before entering.

  • Wash hands and mouth before eating.

  • Wait for the host to serve food and do not use your own utensils for shared dishes.

Adventure Experiences in Nepal

• Hire a guide and carry proper gear, as mountain and forest trails can be challenging.

• Be prepared for altitude sickness, frostbite, and other risks.

• Dress appropriately and don’t overexert yourself. Safety should always come first.

Water Safety

• Tap water in Nepal is generally unsafe to drink.

• Carry a water filter or boiling equipment.

• Avoid fruits washed in tap water and drinks with ice made from local water.

• Stick to bottled water, which is widely available.

Nepali Food (Dal Bhat)

• Dal Bhat is the staple dish, consisting of rice and lentils, often served with vegetables like potatoes and cauliflower.

• Nepali food is usually spicy, but you can request milder options.

• Local restaurants offer authentic meals at affordable prices throughout the country.

Everest Mountain Flight Tours

• Not up for climbing? Enjoy scenic mountain flights from Kathmandu to view the Himalayas.

• Flights depart between 7 AM and 9 AM.

• Experience snow-capped peaks, glaciers, rivers, and lakes from above.

• Book your Everest Mountain Flight in advance for the best experience.

Getting Into Nepal

By Land

• Entry points from India:

  • Kakarbhitta and Jogbini (Eastern Nepal)

  • Birgunj (Central Nepal)

  • Belari, Nepalganj, Dhangadhi, Mahendranagar (Western Nepal)

• Entry points from Tibet/China:

  • Kodari and Kerung (Central Nepal)

By Air

Nepal has one international airport, Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu). Many airlines operate regular flights connecting Nepal with major cities:

International Airlines & Destinations:

• Nepal Airlines – Delhi, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Dubai, Doha, Kuala Lumpur

• Thai Airways – Bangkok

• Qatar Airways – Doha

• Jet Airways – Delhi, Mumbai

• Indian Airlines & Air India – Delhi

• Etihad Airways – Abu Dhabi

• Fly Dubai – Dubai

• Bahrain Air – Bahrain

• Dragon Air – Hong Kong

• Korean Air – Seoul

• Silk Air – Singapore

• Air China – Chengdu/Lhasa

• China Southern – Guangzhou

• Biman Bangladesh – Dhaka

• GMG Airlines – Dhaka

• Pakistan Airlines – Karachi

• Druk Air – Paro (Bhutan)

• Air Arabia – Sharjah

• Malindo Air – Kuala Lumpur

• Malaysian Air – Kuala Lumpur

• Air Asia – Kuala Lumpur

• Himalaya Air – Doha

• China Eastern – Kunming

• Sichuan Airlines – Chengdu/Lhasa

• Oman Air – Muscat

Domestic Flights

• Kathmandu → Pokhara (Gateway to Annapurna)

• Kathmandu → Lukla (Gateway to Everest)

• Pokhara → Jomsom (Mustang & Muktinath)

• Kathmandu → Bharatpur (Chitwan National Park)

• Kathmandu → Nepalgunj (Far-West Nepal)

Flight Delays & Cancellations

• Nepal’s mountainous terrain and variable weather can cause flight delays or cancellations.

• Tribhuvan International Airport lacks an Instrument Landing System (ILS), so heavy rain, fog, and strong winds may disrupt flights.

• Best trekking season: November–September (dry, clear, stable weather).

• Monsoon season (June–August) and winter (December–February) are more prone to delays.

• For flights to Lukla, delays may affect your entire trekking schedule.

Tip: Always allow 1–2 extra days for buffer in case of delays. Travel insurance is recommended. In emergencies, Nepal Lion Treks & Tours can arrange helicopter charters, though costs are borne by travelers and claimable via insurance.

Additional Tips Before Visiting Nepal

1. Altitude Sneaks Up: Ascend slowly, hydrate, and schedule acclimatization days above 3,000m.

2. Festivals Are Everywhere: Holi, Dashain, and other celebrations can add color and excitement to your visit.

3. Connectivity Fades With Altitude: Download offline maps; Wi-Fi may be patchy in remote areas.

4. Cash Is King: ATMs are limited in villages—carry local currency for tea houses and tips.

5. Weather Runs the Show: Clear mornings are best for flights; always keep flexible plans and buffer days.

Nepal is a country of breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and unforgettable adventures. These tips, combined with support from Nepal Lion Treks & Tours, will ensure your journey is smooth, safe, and memorable.