Country Information

Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu is the only international airport in Nepal. Approximately 30 airlines link it with destinations throughout Europe, Asia and the Middle East including Qatar Airways (www.qatarairways.com), Turkish Airlines (www.turkishairlines.com) and Nepal Airlines (www.nepalairlines.com.np).

The peak seasons for travelling in Nepal are from September to November and March to May. Flights to Kathmandu are most expensive during these times. To keep costs down, travel on the edge of these seasons and book in advance.

The Asia Airpass by Star Alliance enables passengers to create flexible, multi-flight itineraries on just one ticket. Kathmandu is one of the destinations available.

All taxes are included in ticket prices for international flights.

Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM). (www.tiairport.com.np) Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport is located 6 km (4 miles) east of Kathmandu. Tel: <p>(01) 411 3033.</p>.

Nepal is a landlocked country and not accessible by water.

It is not possible to travel from China or India and into Nepal by train. However, Indian Railways (www.indianrail.gov.in) run passenger trains to Gorakhpur, which is near the Bhairahwa border. Cycle-rickshaws and taxis are available there for onward journeys.

There are plans to construct railway lines between Nepal and India, and Nepal and China.

It is not possible to travel through Nepal by train.

There are seven designated entry points to Nepal by road; six in India (Kakadvitta, Birgunj, Bhairahawa, Nepalgunj, Dhangadi and Mahendranagar) and one on the China/Tibet border (Kodari).

As a general rule, border towns don't provide much in the way of sightseeing and accommodation; get in and get moving. You can purchase visas at Kakadvitta, Birgunj, Bhairahawa, Nepalgunj, Gaddachowki, and Kodari providing you have cash and a passport-sized photo.

Tourists entering the country in vehicles must have an international carnet and an international driving license. Be advised that strikes âEuro“ known locally as bandas âEuro“ frequently bring Nepal to a grinding halt. During these strikes the roads close, so keep an eye on the news before you travel.

Border offices at the India-Nepal border have fixed hours (0600 to 2200). These hours are not always reliable, and long lines can form. While you may be able to find immigration officers who will let you in, don't count on it. Many tourist and local buses arrive early to secure their spot in line and move through inspection as quickly as possible.