Kathmandu Airport Guide.

Whether you are joining us for a Tour, Trek , Peak climbing or Expedition, this guide will help you navigate your arrival at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA).

Our goal is to make your arrival in Nepal smooth, hassle-free, and stress-free.

Arrival at Kathmandu Airport (TIA)

After landing at Tribhuvan International Airport, simply follow these steps:

Step 1 – Immigration

Proceed to the immigration area.

Present:

• Passport (minimum 6 months validity recommended)
• Visa application confirmation (if completed online)
• Visa fee payment

After processing, your Nepal Tourist Visa will be issued.

Step 2 – Collect Your Luggage

Proceed to baggage claim and collect all personal luggage, trekking gear, and expedition equipment.

If you are traveling with climbing equipment, ensure all checked bags are collected before proceeding to customs.

Step 3 – Customs Clearance

Most trekkers and climbers carrying personal equipment pass through customs without any issues.

If customs forms are required, airport staff will provide instructions.

Step 4 – Meet Your Altitude Junkies Representative

After exiting the arrivals terminal, you will enter the public reception area where representatives wait for arriving guests.

After exiting the arrivals terminal, please look for an Altitude Junkies signboard or one of our representatives wearing an Altitude Junkies T-shirt or cap featuring the AJ logo. Our team will be there to warmly welcome you, assist with your luggage, and escort you to your private transfer.

If, for any reason, you are unable to locate our representative, please send us a WhatsApp message or call us at +977 9851225435. Our team is available 24 hours a day and will assist you immediately.

Airport Transfer to your Hotel

Once you meet our representative, we will provide a transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu.

Nepal’s Domestic Airport Guide

Nepal’s domestic terminal is quite small. While it is convenient for locals, it can sometimes feel crowded or confusing for foreign visitors. After security, all passengers wait in a single hall, and only ticketed travelers are permitted inside.

Fixed-Wing Flights (with a guide)

Your guide will handle all arrangements, including check-in and boarding passes.
Domestic flights to Lukla are usually operated from Ramechhap (October–November and April-May, the busiest season). This requires clients to wake up at 1:00 AM and drive 3–4 hours to Ramechhap for a short 15-minute flight. The process is more exhausting than it seems, and flights are often canceled for several days due to weather, which can heavily impact your itinerary. For this reason, we do not recommend fixed-wing flights. A confirmed helicopter flight is the best option, as helicopters are generally safer and more reliable for travel in and out of Lukla.
 
Assistance at the Airport (without guide)

Our representative will take care of everything once you are inside.
For flights without a guide, our representative will be there to assist you.
For fixed-wing flights, carry your ticket (e-ticket accepted) and passport.

Helicopter Flights

Helicopter Boarding passes are issued on the same day at Kathmandu airport.
For helicopter flights, a boarding pass and passport are required.
Passengers and baggage will be weighed before departure.
Due to strict weight limits, some baggage may not always travel on the same helicopter. This is completely normal any remaining luggage will be sent on the next available aircraft. AJ will ensure everything arrives before your trek begins.
You may be asked to pay an airport tax of NPR 500 per person (in cash).
Lukla helicopter flights can be a bit challenging without a guide. If you have a guide, we will coordinate directly with them regarding your flight. If you are traveling without a guide, please stay in regular contact with AJ via WhatsApp to ensure everything goes smoothly and without confusion.
On sharing flights, some waiting time is expected. If the helicopter is reserved privately, it will depart as per the given schedule.
Please keep in mind that all flights depend heavily on weather conditions.

Important Considerations for Trekkers

Trekking Poles: Must be checked in as baggage (not allowed in hand carry). Ensure they are not strapped to your backpack.
Weight Limits:
Lukla/Phaplu/Jomsom flights: 5 kg hand carry + 10 kg checked baggage.
Pokhara and other city flights: 5 kg hand carry + 20 kg checked baggage.
Restricted Items in Hand Carry: Knives, scissors, needles, screwdrivers, hammers, and similar sharp tools.
Sporting Equipment: Items like bats, sticks, or martial arts gear must be checked in.
Packing Smart: Secure your gear, follow hand-carry rules, and cooperate with security protocols for a smoother experience.
 
Additional Notes

Flights are sometimes delayed. Carry a book or something to read while waiting.
The domestic terminal is small, but you’ll find a small shop near the helicopter company offices selling coffee and snacks (cash in Nepali rupees is recommended).
Himalayan weather is unpredictable and can cause longer delays than expected. Please remain patient during these times.
For early morning flights, you will be provided with a packed breakfast to enjoy at the airport.