Most visitors land in Kathmandu, but many trekkers take a second flight west to Pokhara. The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal opened the city's original airport (PKR) on 4 July 1958, and it became Nepal's second busiest after Tribhuvan International. Its short runway and eight-aircraft apron often forced diversions. A new airport, Pokhara International (PHH), began operations in January 2023 to replace it. The city lies at about 827 metres in Gandaki Province.
Pokhara sits in a valley below the Annapurna range, with views of Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri and Lamjung Himal on clear days. Phewa Lake, the World Peace Pagoda and Sarangkot are nearby, and the city is the starting point for the Annapurna Base Camp, Ghorepani Poon Hill and Mardi Himal treks. Summer highs average about 27–29°C, and winter lows about 10–12°C. Most of the roughly 1,800 mm of annual rain falls during the June–September monsoon, when fog and storms can delay flights.
Kathmandu–Pokhara is one of Nepal's busiest domestic routes. Other flights serve Jomsom, the gateway to Muktinath and Mustang, as well as Bharatpur and Biratnagar. Buddha Air, Yeti Airlines and Shree Airlines are the main domestic carriers.
International service was limited for years. Buddha Air flew to Lucknow, India, from 2011, but the route was soon stopped. On 23 September 2026, flydubai launched daily direct flights between Pokhara and Dubai International (DXB), the first regular scheduled link between Pokhara and the Middle East.
The route operates from Dubai's Terminal 3 as a codeshare with Emirates, so passe Note: Fares are reported to be up to NPR 5,000 cheaper than comparable Kathmandu departures; this could not be verified, so check current prices.
Terminal facilities include check-in counters, security screening, waiting areas, cafes, ATMs, currency exchange, tourist information and Wi-Fi. An airside lounge charges NPR 2,500 (about USD 19) and has showers. There is no luggage storage, public shower or sleeping area.
Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) bring the clearest views and the most stable flights. Autumn is the peak season, so book early. Morning domestic flights are more reliable, especially to Jomsom. Arrive at least one hour before a domestic departure and carry valid ID. Trekkers should confirm baggage allowances, which are strict on domestic flights, keep essential gear in hand luggage and plan buffer days for weather delays.
