Arriving in Kathmandu: From the Airport to a Quiet Homestay

Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) is Nepal's only major international gateway, and arriving after a long flight can be hectic. Here is how to make the transfer to Budhanilkantha — about 12 km north of the airport — as easy as possible, and what to expect when you stay with us.

Step by step after you land

1. Immigration: many nationalities can get a tourist visa on arrival. Check current visa rules and fees on the Department of Immigration website before you fly.
2. Baggage and customs: collect your bags and exit through customs into the arrivals hall.
3. Money and SIM: ATMs and money exchange counters are available at the airport, and you can buy a local SIM card with data — handy for maps and WhatsApp.
4. Transfer: meet your pre-arranged driver or take an official airport taxi.

Airport pickup with Sacred Trails

The simplest option is to let us collect you. Send us your flight number and arrival time when you book and we will arrange a pickup from the arrivals area to the homestay. The drive is about 12 km and usually takes 30–40 minutes, depending on traffic. Drop-offs for your departure can be arranged the same way.

Why stay outside the airport area

There are hotels close to the airport, but the surroundings are busy. A 30–40 minute drive gets you somewhere much quieter: a hillside neighbourhood below Shivapuri forest where you can actually sleep off the jet lag. Rooms have private bathrooms with 24/7 hot water, comfortable beds and blackout-friendly calm — and breakfast is ready when you wake up.

Early departures and domestic flights

• International flights: plan to leave the homestay with plenty of time — traffic can be unpredictable, especially at rush hour.
• Domestic flights to Lukla, Pokhara, Bhairahawa and Nepalgunj leave from the domestic terminal next to the international one.
• Mountain flights, especially to Lukla, are often scheduled early in the morning and are weather-dependent. We can arrange an early transfer and a packed breakfast.
• Before and after a trek you can leave spare luggage with us.

Which room for a short airport stay?

Most guests on a short layover choose a Deluxe King Room (couples or solo travellers) or a Deluxe Twin Room (friends travelling together), both from $35 a night with breakfast. Families or groups landing together often prefer the 2-bedroom apartment.