Kathmandu Airport Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before You Land

But many first-time travelers or tourists feel confused and overwhelmed when landing and post-landing at the Kathmandu airport. It is because of the crowd, limited signage, and people approaching you for help.

In this blog, we guide you to navigate out safely and calmly from Kathmandu airport to reach your destination without any problem. We provide information and tips you should know before landing in kathmandu including Visa process, customs and baggage process, currency exchange guide, and sim card obtaining process. Also, this blog helps you to avoid common scams at the Kathmandu airport. 

Why Kathmandu Airport (TIA) Can Feel Overwhelming for First-Timers

Kathmandu Airport, or Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), is the first international airport of Nepal, inaugurated in 1955. Being the first airport of Nepal, it is also the main gateway to various international and domestic destinations. As a main gateway, the airport often gets crowded and busy, especially during the peak time. 

Due to limited space and long queues at immigration, travelers might face difficulties in clearing immigration, baggage collection, Visa processing, currency, and SIM card purchase. Tourists or first-time travelers might also feel overwhelmed due to the crowd outside the airport and people approaching for help. 

Visa on Arrival Process at Tribhuvan International Airport

Nepal offers visa on arrival (VOA) to most nationalities at Tribhuvan International Airport, allowing 90 days stays in the country. But applying for the visa on arrival can be confusing for most travelers. The visa on arrival process at tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, is explained below:

• Visa Form: Fill out the arrival card and apply for a Nepal Visa via filling out an online form or using kiosk machines in the arrival area. 
• Make Payment: Following the visa form filling, make visa payment at the bank’s counter according to your days of stay or visa validation requirement. You can apply for a 15/30/90 days visa that costs USD 30/50/125 respectively. 
• Further process: Proceed to the immigration office with the visa application and payment receipt. You must submit your documents and passports to the immigration officer for processing of your Nepal visa. Once all requirements are met, your visa application is approved.

It is important to note that SAARC Citizens do not require a visa fee for 1 month in a single fiscal year (exceptions apply). Meanwhile, for Indian nationals, no visa is required for entry to Nepal. 

Customs and Baggage Rules You Should Know

Once you are cleared from immigration, proceed towards customs. In customs you need to declare your belongings, which include cash, expensive ornaments, accessories, or restricted items you are carrying. While Nepal’s customs are comfortable with tourists, it is strictly important to avoid bringing prohibited items. In case the custom officers require an explanation, answer politely and clearly. 

As you clear immigration, you can claim your baggage or luggage in the designated arrival lounge at the international terminal. You can use a free trolley to navigate comfortably with baggage. 

Currency Exchange and ATM at Kathmandu Airport

Tribhuvan International Airport (VNKT), or Kathmandu airport offers 24 hour ATM and currency exchange services. You can exchange currencies in arrival lounges or withdraw from nearby ATMs. It is recommended to exchange a small amount of currency, as rates are lower in the airport in comparison to currency exchange centers in Thamel. Keep the receipt for your currency exchange, as it is required for exchanging Nepalese currencies during departure. 

Buying a SIM Card at Kathmandu Airport

You can buy SIM cards inside the airport arrival lounge or kiosks. Buying a SIM card is an easy and fast process that requires you to have a copy of your passport and a passport-sized photo. You get options to choose a carrier, which are Ncell and Nepal Communication (NTC). Choose any option and submit documents while choosing various plans and packages according to your requirements. 

Transport Options from Kathmandu Airport

Once you create immigration, customs, and other services, you get to the arrival terminal where you can choose a transportation option to reach your destination. You can book a taxi, choose private vehicle pickup, or book a ride-sharing application to travel. 

Taxi

Taxi is one of the common and 24 hour available options to travel to your destinations. You can find taxis outside the arrivals. Before the ride, agree on the price clearly. Taxis are fast and one of the comfortable options to reach your destination. 

Private pickup

Private pickups are the most comfortable, safe, and secure option if you are arriving at night with families. Most hotels, travel agencies, or your known contact receives you and drops you at your hotel or place of accommodations. 

Ride-Sharing Apps

You can also book a vehicle by using a ride-sharing application. It is one of the easiest ways to book a vehicle without requiring bargaining or with full comfort.  

Common Airport Scams to Avoid in Kathmandu

While Kathmandu is generally safe, you still might get scammed at the airport. Approaching for help, unofficial money exchangers, and taxi scams are common scams you may encounter at Kathmandu airport. 

Taxi Overcharging 

The overpriced taxi charging an overpriced taxi is one of the common scams that tourists face in kathmandu. To avoid scams, get references about price in the help desk or using ride-sharing applications. Before boarding the cab, agree to the price and pay only according to the agreement.

Fake Agents

You may encounter people acting as airport officials, tour guides, or booking cheap hotels or transport. Be aware of these people, as the chance of them being fake is high. 

Tourist hustlers

Tourist hustlers are common scammers near Kathmandu airport. They approach you politely and offer help regarding currency exchange, tour booking, and many more things. In such situations, politely decline the help and walk with confidence. 

Conclusion

Landing at Nepal’s Kathmandu airport may feel overwhelming at first, but once you know the way to deal with it, it is manageable. Upon arrival, filling out visa forms, payment, and submission of documents are important for getting an arrival visa in Nepal. Similarly, knowing custom and baggage rules, currency exchange, SIM applications, and transportation are important. Avoiding scams such as currency exchange, hotel booking, airport official scams, and various other scams helps in your safety. Visit Flights Nepal to book and purchase international flight tickets to Nepal and travel confidently. 

FAQs On Kathmandu Airport Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before You Land

Can I get a Nepal visa on arrival at Kathmandu Airport?

Yes, you can get a visa on arrival at kathmandu airport if you are not a national of 12 specific nations with visa restrictions. To know about visa restrictions, visit the immigration website. To get a visa, you are required to fill out an arrival form and apply for a visa online or via a kiosk. Following payment and submission of documents, you are eligible for receiving a visa. 

How can I book flights to Nepal?

If you are planning for flight booking to travel in Nepal, Flights Nepal is a reliable and the best ticketing platform for you. It allows you to book or purchase international flights to Nepal and domestic flights within the country at the best price. 

What are common scams at TIA?

Currency exchanges, tour booking, fake agents, and tourist hustlers are some of the common scams tourists face in TIA. These scams are avoidable and can be avoided with caution and being aware of the situations