Pokhara Airport Transfer (PKR)

Pokhara Regional Airport (IATA: PKR) is 2 kilometres from Lakeside (Phewa Tal) — one of Nepal's most conveniently located airports. It handles domestic routes from Kathmandu (25–30 min) on Yeti Airlines, Buddha Air, and Shree Airlines. The new Pokhara International Airport (IATA: PIK, 5 km from Lakeside) opened in 2023 and will take over scheduled services as routes transfer to the international terminal. Metered taxis and private hire vehicles are available at both airports; InDrive also operates in Pokhara. A LocalsRide driver meets you at arrivals for transfers to Lakeside guesthouses, trekking departure points, and the Pokhara valley viewpoints.

PKR Transfer Times

Lakeside (Phewa Tal): 2 km, 8–15 min. Pokhara Bazaar (old city): 3 km, 10–18 min. Sarangkot (Annapurna sunrise): 8 km, 18–28 min. Begnas Lake: 18 km, 28–40 min. Nayapul (Annapurna trek start): 42 km, 55–75 min. Phedi (Sanctuary approach): 55 km, 70–90 min.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are domestic flights from Kathmandu to Pokhara reliable?

Domestic flights within Nepal are subject to weather cancellations — particularly in monsoon (June–September) and winter fog (December–January). Buddha Air and Yeti Airlines are the most reliable carriers. If a flight is cancelled, the standard fallback is the Prithvi Highway by bus or private car (6–7 hours). Your LocalsRide driver in Pokhara can be rescheduled without penalty if a Kathmandu-to-Pokhara domestic flight is cancelled — contact via the booking system to push the pickup time.

Which airport should I use for Pokhara — PKR or the new PIK?

As of 2026, domestic routes are in the process of migrating from PKR (old airport, 2 km from Lakeside) to PIK (new international airport, 5 km from Lakeside). Check your flight ticket for the airport code — the distance and transfer time differ. PKR to Lakeside is 2 km (8–15 min); PIK to Lakeside is approximately 5 km (12–20 min). Both airports are served by LocalsRide private car transfers.