Layover in Kathmandu (KTM)
Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM). Here's how much of a layover you can really use, and what fits in it.
About Kathmandu
Kathmandu is the largest city and capital of Nepal, and the namesake of the Kathmandu Valley. Once thought to be the fabled and inaccessible Shangri-La, Kathmandu is a fast-growing spot catering to a wide range of holiday types and budgets. As a result of considerable urban growth in recent decades, it is now part of one continuous urban area together with Patan to the south.
From Wikivoyage, CC BY-SA.
How much time can you use?
After getting off the plane, immigration for international arrivals, the trip into town and back, and security.
| Layover | Domestic arrival | International arrival |
|---|---|---|
| 4 hours | About 1h 47m in the city | Head straight to your gate |
| 6 hours | About 3h 47m in the city | About 2h 12m in the city |
| 8 hours | About 5h 47m in the city | About 4h 12m in the city |
| 12 hours | About 9h 47m in the city | About 8h 12m in the city |
Getting into Kathmandu
About 19m each way by train, bus or taxi to the center, roughly 4 km (2 mi). This is an estimate based on distance; the planner checks real transit times for your exact flight.
Questions
Can I leave the airport on a layover in Kathmandu?
On a domestic connection, you need roughly 4 hours or more to get into Kathmandu and back with time to enjoy it. If you're arriving internationally and must clear immigration, plan on about 6 hours or more.
How do I get from KTM to central Kathmandu?
Allow about 19m each way by train, bus or taxi to the center; the center is about 4 km (2 mi) from the airport.
How early should I head back to KTM?
Be back through security about 1h 20m before a domestic departure and 2h 10m before an international one, plus the ride back.
Build a plan for your exact flight
Guide data from OurAirports, © OpenStreetMap contributors and Wikivoyage (CC BY-SA). Times are estimates for planning; check transit schedules and airline rules before you leave the airport.