Nepal Visa and Flight Guide for Trekkers

Here’s everything you need to know about getting into Nepal and connecting to your trek.

Visa on Arrival

Nepal offers visa-on-arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu) for most nationalities. Fees: USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days, USD 125 for 90 days. Bring USD cash and 2 passport photos. You can also apply online up to 15 days in advance at immigration.gov.np.

Visa Extensions

Extensions cost USD 30 for 15 days, then USD 2/day after. Available at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu. Allow 2-3 hours of waiting.

International Flights

Most international flights arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu. Direct flights connect Kathmandu to Doha, Dubai, Delhi, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Istanbul, and Chengdu. From Europe or North America, expect one stopover (typically Doha, Dubai, or Delhi).

Domestic Flights

Kathmandu to Lukla: 35 minutes. The most famous STOL (short takeoff/landing) flight in the world, landing at the Lukla airstrip (2840m). USD 175 one-way. Book 2+ months in advance for peak season. Weather delays are common.

Kathmandu to Pokhara: 25 minutes. USD 110 one-way. Multiple daily flights.

Kathmandu to Jomsom: 20 minutes. For Annapurna upper circuit or Mustang. USD 130 one-way. Weather-dependent.

Kathmandu to Bhadrapur: 45 minutes. For Kanchenjunga treks. USD 145 one-way.

Helicopter Rescue

If you get sick or injured at altitude, helicopter rescue is the only option. Cost: USD 2000-5000 depending on location. Trekking insurance covering helicopter rescue is mandatory — get it before you fly to Nepal.

Arrival Tips

• Bring USD cash for the visa and the first few days.
• Download Maps.me and the Nepal trekking maps.
• Get a local SIM at the airport (Ncell or NTC) — NPR 1000 for 10GB data.
• Pre-book your hotel in Thamel — airport taxis charge USD 8-10 to Thamel.

Departure Tax

Nepal no longer charges departure tax at the airport — it’s included in your flight ticket.