KTM Airport Transfer | Tribhuvan International Kathmandu

Tribhuvan International Airport (IATA: KTM) is Nepal's only international airport, handling all overseas arrivals and a busy domestic network. The international terminal is a single building with visa on arrival facilities, a baggage hall, and government prepaid taxi counter. The domestic terminal is a separate building adjacent to the international side — both share the single runway. The airport is 6 kilometres from Thamel and 3 kilometres from Boudhanath. Road traffic out of the airport can be severe. A LocalsRide driver meets you inside the international arrivals exit with a name sign — the most direct option after a long overnight flight from Europe or a connection through Delhi or Doha.

KTM Transfer Times

Thamel (tourist hub): 6 km, 20–45 min. Boudhanath Stupa: 4 km, 15–30 min. Pashupatinath Temple: 3 km, 12–25 min. Patan (Lalitpur, Durbar Square): 12 km, 35–55 min. Bhaktapur (medieval city): 16 km, 40–65 min. Nagarkot (Himalayan sunrise viewpoint): 32 km, 1.5–2 hours.

Good to know

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a visa on arrival at Kathmandu Airport?

Most nationalities need a visa. Tourist visas on arrival are available: 15-day ($30 USD), 30-day ($50 USD), 90-day ($125 USD) — payable in USD. Visa queues can take 30–60 minutes. Your LocalsRide driver's 60-minute wait begins when your flight lands, covering visa and immigration queues.

What is the best time to arrive in Kathmandu to avoid traffic?

Arrivals 21:00–06:00 experience the least traffic — KTM to Thamel takes 20–25 minutes overnight versus 40–70 minutes during the morning rush. Most European flights arrive 07:00–10:00 via Delhi/Doha, coinciding with peak traffic. A pre-booked private car with a confirmed driver at arrivals removes the additional stress.