Travelling from Pokhara (PKR) to Kathmandu (KTM): what you need to know
The average length of a direct flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu is 25 minutes.
Kathmandu's timezone is UTC+5:47, which is the same as Pokhara.
Every week, there are 181 Pokhara to Kathmandu flights. If you prefer to be on board as early as possible, opt for the 06:40 Buddha Air flight. If you're eager to make the most of your time before you fly, the last flight is at 19:20 with Buddha Air.
To ensure you catch your PKR to KTM flight, allow plenty of time to check in and drop off your luggage. Arriving two hours ahead of international departures and one hour before domestic flights is the general travel rule.
Travelling during a peak month like May? School holidays and other popular seasons can result in longer queues at check-in and security. Play it safe and get there up to four hours ahead of an international flight and two hours before domestic departures.
You'll find a range of airlines operating direct flights from Pokhara to Kathmandu. When you're ready to kick off your Kathmandu holiday, let one of these carriers fly you to this must-see corner of Nepal:
Buddha Air is the airline most travellers choose for this route.
Yeti Airlines is the most punctual carrier offering PKR to KTM flights.
How to find the cheapest flights from Pokhara (PKR) to Kathmandu (KTM)
The cheapest price we've seen for a one-way Pokhara to Kathmandu flight is ₹ 4,251. A round-trip ticket right now is ₹ 7,487. Depending on the availability and when you book, these fares can change.
Score cheap tickets from PKR to KTM by booking 11 months ahead. According to our research, that's the sweet spot for bagging a bargain.
Plan your trip for April. That's the cheapest month for flights from Pokhara to Kathmandu. If you're flexible on when you fly, use the 'Whole month' tool to find the cheapest price across every month.
Landing cheap flights from PKR to KTM is a cinch with Price Alerts. Simply create one of these automatic alerts and we'll get in touch as soon as a lower fare pops up.
Choose your preferred departure and arrival times, number of stops and airlines with the filters. Or sort your results by 'Cheapest' to find the best deals on flights from Pokhara to Kathmandu.
Handy information about Pokhara (PKR)
Central Pokhara to Pokhara is approximately 6 kilometres. Depending on traffic, it'll take about 20 minutes to get there if you're ride-sharing, catching a taxi or driving.
Catching public transport? Expect a trip time of around 30 minutes.
Have an early flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu? Avoid the last-minute rush to the terminal (and catch some extra z's) by choosing one of these hotels near PKR:
What is the baggage allowance on flights from Pokhara Airport (PKR) to Kathmandu Airport (KTM)?
Most airlines operating flights from PKR to KTM include a carry-on bag with standard fares, though baggage allowances vary by airline and ticket type. Here is what you can typically expect with baggage policies on this route:
Buddha Air
Carry-on allowance: 5kg cabin bag plus personal item
Checked baggage: 20kg included with some economy fares
Departure terminal: Pokhara Airport (PKR), Main Terminal
Arrival terminal: Kathmandu Airport (KTM), Domestic Terminal
Check-in counters: Open 2 hours before departure
Yeti Airlines
Carry-on allowance: 5kg cabin bag plus personal item
Checked baggage: 20kg included with some economy fares
Departure terminal: Pokhara Airport (PKR), Main Terminal
Arrival terminal: Kathmandu Airport (KTM), Domestic Terminal
Check-in counters: Open 2 hours before departure
Shree Airlines
Carry-on allowance: 7kg cabin bag plus personal item
Checked baggage: 15kg included with some economy fares
Departure terminal: Pokhara Airport (PKR), Main Terminal
Arrival terminal: Kathmandu Airport (KTM), Domestic Terminal
Check-in counters: Open 2 hours before departure
You can find essential facilities including free Wi-Fi, dining options, and currency exchange services at Pokhara Airport (PKR). The airport also provides baggage storage facilities and ATM services for your convenience. Transport connections are readily available to help you reach your onward destination from Pokhara Airport (PKR).
Arriving at Kathmandu (KTM)
The last thing you need is a long journey to your hotel if you're arriving on a late Pokhara to Kathmandu flight. Book one of these accommodation options near KTM instead:
Drive into your next adventure with a Kathmandu rental car. Pick up a set of wheels from Spark Car to explore beyond Kathmandu's usual tourist stops.
Reserving your ride from Kathmandu about one week ahead gives you the best shot at securing a great deal.
Getting from Kathmandu (KTM) to central Kathmandu
Kathmandu is roughly 6 kilometres from the centre of Kathmandu. Driving there takes about 30 minutes.
When travelling on public transport, expect a journey time of roughly 40 minutes.
When to fly to Kathmandu (KTM)
The quietest month for a flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu is March, while February is the most popular. Pick the best time to visit Kathmandu based on whether you prefer a bustling atmosphere or a more laid-back vibe.
When reserving your flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu, consider the kind of weather you enjoy. June is the warmest month in Kathmandu, with temperatures ranging from 17ºC to 30ºC.
January sees average temperatures of between 3ºC and 19ºC. Search for cheap tickets from PKR to KTM sometime then if you like cooler conditions.
Weather snapshot
The weather in Kathmandu features distinct seasons with warm summers, refreshing monsoons, and crisp winters creating a diverse climate experience. Here's what to expect throughout the year:
December – February: Winter brings clear skies and crisp air, making these some of the best times to explore Kathmandu when mountain views shine brightest and crowds thin out.
March – May: Spring brings warm, dry weather that's ideal for exploring the valley and surrounding hills. You'll find the days perfect for sightseeing, so keep a light jacket handy for cooler evenings.
June – September: Kathmandu's monsoon season delivers warm, humid weather with frequent afternoon rainfall that refreshes the air and transforms the surrounding hills into lush green landscapes. You'll want waterproof clothing and comfortable walking shoes for exploring temples and cultural sites during drier morning hours.
October – November: Post-monsoon season brings clear skies and mild weather perfect for exploring outdoor attractions and mountain views. You'll find ideal conditions for walking tours and sightseeing around the city's temples and squares.
Sightseeing and travel inspiration
Kathmandu sits in a mountain valley surrounded by ancient temples, bustling markets, and narrow medieval streets. The city blends Hindu and Buddhist traditions with modern life, creating a unique atmosphere where prayer flags flutter above busy squares and centuries-old buildings house internet cafes. Planning flights to Kathmandu opens the door to this fascinating mix of old and new.
Things to do in Kathmandu: Wander through the narrow lanes and spice stalls of Asan Bazaar, about 2 kilometres northeast of the city centre, where locals shop for vegetables and household goods. Head to the Garden of Dreams, roughly 1 kilometre north, for a peaceful walk through landscaped gardens and pavilions. For mountain views, take the cable car up to Chandragiri Hills, approximately 15 kilometres southwest, where you can spot the Himalayan peaks on clear days.
Cultural experiences: Watch traditional Newar dance performances at the National Theatre in Kathmandu Durbar Square, about 2 kilometres south of the city centre. Sample momos and dal bhat at local eateries in Thamel district, roughly 1 kilometre north, or browse handwoven textiles and singing bowls at the Patan Museum in Lalitpur, around 5 kilometres southeast. Each area connects you with centuries-old traditions through food, crafts, and performing arts.
Seasonal highlights: Experience Dashain festival celebrations in October with elaborate decorations and traditional ceremonies throughout the city. Tihar, the festival of lights, illuminates temples and homes in November with candles and colourful displays. The clear mountain views and pleasant temperatures during these autumn months make it the best time to visit Kathmandu for both cultural immersion and outdoor exploration.
Explore more of Nepal
Pokhara is just one of the many places in Nepal waiting to be discovered after you've experienced Kathmandu. Around 145 kilometres away to the north-west, its best attractions include Phewa Lake, Parahawking and Sarangkot View Point.
Patan is another favourite destination in Nepal and is around 6 kilometres south of Kathmandu. No trip is complete without seeing Patan Durbar Square, Hiranya Varna Mahavihar and Kathmandu.
