Pokhara Airport Transport Guide: Getting To and From the New Airport

Pokhara's new airport — Pokhara Regional International Airport (IATA: PKR) — opened in January 2023, replacing the old Pokhara Airport closer to Lakeside. The new airport handles both domestic and some international flights. Getting to and from it requires knowing the new distances and transport options.

New Airport Location

The new Pokhara Regional International Airport is located at Pokhara-32, Ratnapuri, approximately 23 km from the Lakeside (Baidam) tourist district. This is a significantly longer distance than the old airport (which was only about 2 km from Lakeside). The drive takes 30–50 minutes depending on traffic.

Getting from the Airport to Lakeside

Taxi

The primary option. Taxis are available at the designated taxi rank outside the arrivals area. Negotiate the fare or look for the official rate board.

Approximate taxi fares (2024):

• To Lakeside (Baidam): NPR 800–1,200
• To Pokhara Bus Park (Baglung Highway): NPR 600–900
• To Prithvi Chowk / city centre: NPR 700–1,000

Hotel Pickup

Many Lakeside hotels offer pickup from the new airport for NPR 800–1,500. Confirm in advance during booking, especially for early morning arrivals.

Local Micro-Bus

Micro-buses connecting the airport road to Pokhara city run on the main highway. However, services are infrequent and involve a walk to the main road. Not practical for travellers with significant luggage.

Getting to the Airport from Lakeside

By Taxi

Negotiate in advance. Most drivers quote NPR 800–1,200 for the full journey. For early morning departures (domestic flights leave before 9 AM due to mountain wind conditions), confirm your taxi the evening before.

By Micro-Bus to City, Then Taxi

Take a local micro from Lakeside to Prithvi Chowk or Mahendra Pool (NPR 20–30), then a taxi from the city to the airport. This can reduce cost but adds time and logistics — not ideal for early morning flights.

Domestic Flight Tips at Pokhara Airport

• All flights to Jomsom depart before 10 AM to beat afternoon Kali Gandaki valley winds. Arrive 90 minutes early.
• Check whether your Jomsom flight departs from the new PKR or the old small airfield — confirm with your airline when booking.
• Weather delays and cancellations at Pokhara airport are common, particularly during monsoon. Allow buffer days.

International Flights at Pokhara

The new airport was designed partly to handle international arrivals. As of 2024–2025, some international charter and scheduled services operate from Pokhara, reducing the need to transit through Kathmandu. Check with your airline for the most current international route status.

Airport Facilities

The new airport has a modern terminal with check-in counters, a small departure lounge, food and beverage facilities, and ATMs. It is significantly more spacious and comfortable than the old Pokhara Airport.

Driving to the Airport

If you are travelling by private vehicle or taxi to catch a flight, allow at least 1 hour from Lakeside to be safe, especially during morning hours when local commuter traffic can build up.

Pokhara's new airport is a significant upgrade in infrastructure. The extra distance from Lakeside is an adjustment, but the facilities and long runway capacity make it a more capable international gateway for Nepal's tourism-driven second city.