Pokhara Airport Travel Guide
Pokhara Airport (IATA: PKR, ICAO: VNPK) is an international airport located in Pokhara, Nepal. It is the second busiest airport in Nepal after Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. The airport is located about 6 km southeast of Pokhara city center and serves as a gateway to the Annapurna region, a popular destination for trekkers and hikers. The airport has one runway and can handle aircraft up to the size of a Boeing 747. It is currently served by several domestic airlines such as Nepal Airlines, Buddha Air, and Yeti Airlines, as well as international airlines like Druk Air and Thai Airways. The airport is also undergoing expansion to handle larger aircraft and increase the number of passengers it can accommodate.
History
The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal established the airport on July 4th, 1958. Up until the 2010s, it provided consistent service to Jomsom and Kathmandu, as well as intermittent service to Manang. Private Nepalese airline Buddha Air launched international service from Pokhara to Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport in Lucknow, India, in 2011 and announced future flights to Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi. But soon after, these international flights were stopped.
Pokhara Airport, which handles flights to several provinces, became Nepal's second domestic hub in the late 2010s.
The airport will be eventually replaced by Pokhara International Airport starting in 2023.
Facilities
Only eight propeller planes can be accommodated at a time on the airport's narrow apron. When there are issues, such as fog, Pokhara Airport serves as a backup airport for Kathmandu, the nation's primary airport. Flights frequently need to be redirected to third airports with even shorter runways due to a short runway and a busy approach.
Attraction
Scenic Location: Pokhara International Airport is located in the heart of the Annapurna mountain range, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
Convenient Access: The airport is only a few minutes away from the city center, making it easy to access popular tourist destinations such as Phewa Lake and the World Peace Pagoda.
Modern Facility: The airport has undergone recent renovations and upgrades, making it a modern and comfortable facility for travelers.
Gateway to Trekking: Pokhara is a popular starting point for trekkers heading to the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, making the airport a convenient gateway for adventure seekers.
Cultural Experience: The airport is surrounded by traditional villages and temples, offering visitors a chance to experience the rich culture and history of the region.
Connectivity: The airport is well connected to major cities in Nepal, as well as international destinations such as India and Bhutan, making it easy to plan onward travel.
Climate
The climate in Pokhara International Airport is generally mild to warm, with temperatures ranging from an average high of around 27-29°C (81-84°F) during the summer months of June to August, to an average low of around 10-12°C (50-54°F) during the winter months of December to February. The airport receives an average annual rainfall of around 1,800mm, with the heaviest rainfall occurring during the monsoon season from June to September. The airport is located in the foothills of the Himalayas, which can lead to varying weather conditions and occasionally heavy rain or thunderstorms.
Food
The airport is in Pokhara, located in western Nepal, and is known for its diverse and delicious food options. there are various cafes and restaurants that offer a variety of traditional and western foods. One of the most popular dishes in Pokhara is dal bhat, a traditional Nepali meal consisting of lentil soup (dal) and rice (bhat). This dish is often served with a variety of curries, such as chicken or vegetables, and is a staple for both locals and tourists.
Another popular dish is momo, a type of steamed dumpling filled with meat or vegetables. These can be found at street vendors or restaurants throughout the city, and are often served with a spicy dipping sauce.
The area near the airport also has a variety of international food options, including Tibetan and Chinese cuisine. Tibetan momos, which are similar to Nepali momos but have slightly different filling and seasoning, can be found at many restaurants in the city. Chinese food, such as fried rice and noodles, is also widely available in Pokhara.
For those with a sweet tooth, Pokhara offers a variety of traditional Nepali desserts. Kaju barfi, a sweet made from cashews and sugar, is a popular option. Additionally, lassi, a yogurt-based drink, is often served as a dessert and can be flavored with fruits such as mango or strawberry.
Overall, this place offers a wide range of food options for both locals and tourists, from traditional Nepali dishes to international cuisine. Whether you're looking for a quick street food snack or a sit-down meal, you're sure to find something delicious here.
Accommodation
Pokhara is a popular tourist destination in Nepal known for its stunning views of the Himalayas and its beautiful lakes. If you're planning a trip to Pokhara, finding accommodation near the airport is a great option. There are several options available for all types of travelers, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts.
One popular option for budget travelers is the Hotel Pokhara Inn. This hotel is located just a short walk from the airport and offers comfortable rooms at affordable prices. The hotel has a restaurant on-site where you can enjoy traditional Nepalese cuisine, and a terrace where you can relax and take in the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
For those looking for a more luxurious option, the Hotel Pokhara Grande is a great choice. This hotel is located just a short drive from the airport and offers a range of amenities including an outdoor swimming pool, spa and fitness center. The hotel also has a restaurant and bar on-site, where you can enjoy delicious meals and drinks while taking in the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
Another great option for those looking for a more upscale experience is the Hotel Pokhara Marriott. This hotel is located just a short drive from the airport and offers a range of amenities including an outdoor swimming pool, spa, and fitness center. The hotel also has a restaurant and bar on-site, where you can enjoy delicious meals and drinks while taking in the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Pokhara airport to suit all types of travelers. Whether you're on a budget or looking for a luxurious experience, you're sure to find the perfect place to stay.
Things to do
The following are activities you can engage in during your free time when at Pokhara airport.
Visit the International Mountain Museum: This museum is dedicated to the history and culture of mountaineering in Nepal and is a great place to learn about the history of climbing in the region.
Explore the Phewa Lake: This is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Pokhara and is a great place to relax and take in beautiful scenery.
Visit the World Peace Pagoda: This Buddhist temple is located on a hill overlooking the city and offers great views of the surrounding mountains.
Take a paragliding or ultralight flight: Pokhara is a popular spot for paragliding and ultralight flights, and there are several companies that offer these experiences.
Visit the Gupteshwor Cave: This cave is located just a short drive from the airport and is home to a large statue of Lord Shiva.
Take a boat ride on Fewa Lake: This is a great way to explore the lake and take in the beautiful scenery.
Visit the Pokhara Museum: This museum is dedicated to the history and culture of the Pokhara region and is a great place to learn more about the area.
Go on a hiking or trekking trip: There are many hiking and trekking trails in the area, and it's a great way to explore the mountains and take in the beautiful scenery.
Available Packages
The following list includes some of the trekking routes that begin from Pokhara.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek: This trek takes you through lush forests, terraced fields, and traditional villages, with stunning views of the Annapurna mountain range. The trek culminates at the base camp of Annapurna, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
Poon Hill Trek: This short and easy trek is perfect for those with limited time or who are looking for a more relaxed experience. The trek offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges from the viewpoint of Poon Hill.
Mardi Himal Trek: This off-the-beaten-path trek offers an alternative to the popular Annapurna Base Camp Trek, with lesser-known trails and stunning views of the Mardi Himal and other peaks.
Langtang Trek: This trek takes you through the Langtang National Park, with beautiful forests, traditional villages, and stunning views of the Langtang mountain range. The trek culminates at the base camp of Langtang Lirung, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
Besides this, Pokhara can be reached through a variety of other services, including
