Arriving in or departing from Pokhara should be a smooth experience, not a stressful one. This comprehensive airport transfer guide covers everything you need to know about navigating Pokhara's airport transportation options efficiently and comfortably.

About Pokhara International Airport

Pokhara's new international airport began operations in January 2023, replacing the old domestic-only airport. Located approximately 3 km from the city center and 10 km from the popular Lakeside tourist area, it serves both domestic flights (primarily to/from Kathmandu) and international destinations.

Airport to Hotel: Your Arrival Options

Pre-arranged Taxi Service (Recommended)

Benefits of booking in advance:

Driver waiting with your name on arrival
No need to negotiate prices after a long journey
Direct transport to your specific accommodation
Comfort and peace of mind, especially for first-time visitors
Flight tracking, so your driver waits even if your flight is delayed

Airport Taxis

Available outside the terminal, but consider:

Prices may be higher than pre-booked services
Quality of vehicles varies
Need to negotiate rates (typical fare to Lakeside: NPR 800-1200)

Hotel Pickup

Many hotels offer airport pickup services, though these are typically more expensive than independent taxi services.

Hotel to Airport: Departure Transportation

Journey Time Planning

Allow sufficient time for your transfer:

From Lakeside to Airport: 20-30 minutes in normal traffic
From City Center to Airport: 10-15 minutes
Add 15-30 minutes during morning/evening rush hours

When to Leave Your Hotel

For domestic flights, plan to arrive 1.5 hours before departure. For international flights, aim for 2.5-3 hours before departure. This means:

Domestic flights: Leave Lakeside 2 hours before departure
International flights: Leave Lakeside at least 3 hours before departure

Our Airport Transfer Services

We specialize in reliable, comfortable airport transfers with:

Arrival Services:

Flight tracking system to adjust for delays
Meet and greet with name sign at the arrival area
Help with luggage to the vehicle
Complimentary bottled water
Brief orientation about Pokhara during your ride

Departure Services:

Punctual hotel pickup with comfortable vehicles
Assistance with luggage
Knowledge of the best routes to avoid traffic
Drop-off directly at the appropriate terminal entrance

Vehicle Options

Choose the right vehicle for your needs:

Standard Sedan: Comfortable for 1-3 passengers with moderate luggage
SUV/Van: Ideal for families or groups of 4-6 people with extra luggage space
Larger Vehicles: Available for groups upon request

Useful Airport Tips

Have your hotel address written down in English and Nepali if possible
Keep small denominations of Nepali Rupees for tips or small purchases
Domestic terminal security can get crowded during peak hours
Free WiFi is available in the airport terminals
Limited food options are available at the airport; consider eating before departure

By planning your airport transfers in advance, you can ensure your Pokhara experience begins and ends smoothly, allowing you to focus on enjoying this beautiful lakeside destination rather than worrying about transportation logistics.

Pokhara Airport Transfer Guide: Everything You Need to Know