Tribhuvan International Airport

Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) is Nepal’s main international gateway, located in Kathmandu in the Kathmandu Valley. With the IATA code KTM and ICAO code VNKT, the airport serves as an important arrival and departure point for international travelers visiting Nepal.

For trekkers heading toward the Himalayas, TIA is often the first stop in Nepal. Travelers arriving for trekking in the Kanchenjunga, Everest, Manaslu, Annapurna and Langtang regions typically begin their journey from Kathmandu before continuing by road or domestic flight toward their respective trekking destinations.

The airport is located in the eastern part of Kathmandu, close to areas such as Sinamangal and Pashupatinath. Its location provides convenient access to Kathmandu's hotels, trekking agencies, cultural attractions and transportation services.

The history of aviation at the site dates back to 1949, when the first aircraft landed at Gauchar. Gauchar Airport was officially inaugurated in 1955 and renamed Tribhuvan Airport. In 1964, it became known as Tribhuvan International Airport. Over the following decades, the airport's runway, terminals and aviation infrastructure were progressively expanded.

Today, TIA remains an important part of Nepal's aviation network and operates both international and domestic services. The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) is responsible for aerodrome operations and air navigation services at the airport.

For visitors beginning a Himalayan adventure, Tribhuvan International Airport marks the starting point of the journey into Nepal's mountains. From Kathmandu, trekkers can arrange domestic flights, private vehicles, tourist buses and other transportation depending on their destination and itinerary.