Pokhara Airport, also known as Pokhara Domestic Airport, is a small regional airport located in the city of Pokhara in Nepal. It serves as the main gateway for tourists visiting the popular Annapurna region and the stunning natural beauty of the Himalayas.
Despite its small size, Pokhara Airport plays a significant role in connecting the region to the rest of the country. The airport is situated at an elevation of 827 meters above sea level, providing passengers with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains as they arrive or depart.
The airport features a single runway that is 671 meters long, which can only accommodate small aircraft. The terminal building is modest but functional, offering basic amenities for passengers such as check-in counters, seating areas, and some small shops and cafes.
Due to the airport's location in a mountainous area, flights to and from Pokhara Airport can be quite challenging, especially during bad weather conditions. Pilots require special training to navigate the mountainous terrain and unpredictable weather patterns in the region.
Despite these challenges, Pokhara Airport serves as an important hub for domestic flights within Nepal. Airlines such as Nepal Airlines, Tara Air, and Yeti Airlines operate regular flights to and from the airport, connecting Pokhara to other major cities like Kathmandu and Bharatpur.
For tourists, Pokhara Airport offers convenient access to popular trekking routes in the Annapurna region, as well as other outdoor activities such as paragliding, rafting, and sightseeing. The airport's proximity to the scenic Phewa Lake and the vibrant Lakeside area also makes it a popular choice for travelers seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation.
In recent years, Pokhara Airport has seen an increase in tourist traffic, leading to calls for its expansion and modernization to better accommodate the growing number of passengers. Plans are underway to extend the runway and improve facilities at the airport to meet the demands of both domestic and international travelers.
Overall, Pokhara Airport may be small in size, but it plays a crucial role in connecting travelers to the natural wonders of Nepal's Himalayan region. With its stunning mountain views and convenient location, the airport serves as a vital link for those seeking to explore the beauty of Pokhara and its surrounding areas.