Kathmandu is one of the world's most iconic gateways to the Himalayas and one of the most popular departure points for travellers visiting Bhutan. Surrounded by ancient temples, UNESCO World Heritage Sites and dramatic mountain scenery, Nepal's capital has long been a favourite starting point for Himalayan adventures.
Whether you're travelling from Nepal or connecting from Europe, North America, South Asia or elsewhere, flying from Kathmandu with Drukair offers one of the quickest and most scenic routes to Bhutan.
With daily scheduled flights between Kathmandu and Paro, Drukair makes it easy to travel between two of the Himalayas' most captivating destinations.
Kathmandu is one of Bhutan's closest international gateways and has long been one of Drukair's key destinations. The short flight time, spectacular Himalayan scenery and daily services make it a favourite route for travellers exploring the region.
Travellers choose Kathmandu because of its:
Whether you're beginning your journey in Nepal or combining two Himalayan destinations in one trip, Kathmandu offers one of the most convenient ways to reach Bhutan.
Drukair operates scheduled daily services between Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) and Paro International Airport (PBH), Bhutan's only international airport.
The flight between Kathmandu and Paro is widely regarded as one of the most spectacular commercial flights in the world. On clear days, passengers may enjoy panoramic views of some of the world's highest mountains, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Kanchenjunga before arriving in Bhutan.
The dramatic descent into Paro Valley, surrounded by forested mountains and traditional Bhutanese architecture, is an unforgettable experience and one of aviation's most remarkable approaches.
Drukair currently operates the following services between Kathmandu and Bhutan.
| Flight Number | Route | Operating Days |
| KB401 | Kathmandu (KTM) – Paro (PBH) | Daily |
| KB400 | Paro (PBH) – Kathmandu (KTM) | Daily |
Flight schedules may change depending on the season. Please check the latest timetable before travelling.
A typical Kathmandu to Bhutan flight operates as follows:
Route: Kathmandu → Paro
Departure: Morning departure from Kathmandu
Arrival: Same-day arrival in Paro
Flight duration: approximately 1 hour
Return flights depart Paro and arrive in Kathmandu on the same day.
KTM - PBH Schedule
The Kathmandu to Paro route is famous for its breathtaking Himalayan scenery.
Shortly after take-off, the aircraft flies alongside the Himalayan mountain range, offering incredible views of snow-covered peaks stretching across the horizon.
On clear days, passengers may catch sight of:
As the flight approaches Bhutan, the towering peaks give way to lush valleys, winding rivers and traditional villages before the aircraft makes its carefully controlled approach into Paro.
For the best mountain views, window seats are highly recommended. Many travellers prefer the left side of the aircraft (seat A) when flying from Kathmandu to Paro and the right side (seat F) when departing Bhutan, although views may vary depending on weather conditions and flight routing.
Passengers travelling with Drukair should check in at:
Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM)
Kathmandu, Nepal
We recommend arriving at least three hours before departure to allow sufficient time for check-in, baggage drop, immigration and security screening.
Airport check-in counters generally open three hours before departure and close one hour before departure.
Before travelling from Kathmandu to Bhutan, make sure you have:
Travellers are also encouraged to carry their passport as their primary form of identification throughout their journey.
Drukair's standard baggage allowance varies depending on your cabin class.
Economy Class
Business Class
If your luggage exceeds the permitted allowance, excess baggage charges will apply and are subject to available aircraft capacity.
Passengers travelling with sporting equipment, musical instruments, oversized items or other special luggage are advised to contact Drukair before departure so that the necessary arrangements can be made in advance.
If your itinerary allows, Kathmandu is well worth exploring before continuing to Bhutan.
As one of Asia's oldest cities, Kathmandu is home to centuries-old temples, bustling markets, sacred Buddhist stupas and vibrant local culture. Many travellers choose to spend a few days here before embarking on their Bhutan adventure.
Popular attractions include:
Kathmandu's rich spiritual heritage and Himalayan atmosphere make it a natural complement to a journey through Bhutan.
Tribhuvan International Airport is Nepal's primary international gateway and the country's busiest airport.
Located just a few kilometres from central Kathmandu, the airport serves travellers from across Asia, the Middle East and beyond, providing convenient access to Bhutan through Drukair's daily services.
Passengers can enjoy a range of facilities, including:
For decades, Drukair has connected Kathmandu and Bhutan, offering one of the most scenic and convenient routes into the Himalayas.
Passengers enjoy:
Whether you're combining Nepal and Bhutan in one unforgettable journey or travelling directly to Bhutan, Drukair offers an exceptional way to experience the Himalayas.
You can book your entire Bhutan journey through Druk Asia, an official Drukair representative based in Singapore. From Drukair flight tickets and Bhutan visa processing to customised tour packages, accommodation, licensed guides, and private transportation, every aspect of your trip can be arranged in one place for a seamless, hassle-free travel experience.
Because of their close proximity, many travellers choose to explore Nepal and Bhutan together. Kathmandu provides an excellent starting point to experience Nepal’s rich cultural heritage before continuing to Bhutan’s peaceful monasteries and Himalayan landscapes.
This combination allows visitors to discover two distinct Himalayan cultures within a single journey.
The flight from Kathmandu to Paro takes approximately one hour.
Yes. Drukair operates daily scheduled flights between Kathmandu and Paro.
Drukair operates from Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), Nepal's main international airport.
All international flights arrive at Paro International Airport (PBH), Bhutan's only international airport.
Passengers are advised to arrive at least three hours before departure.
Yes. It is widely regarded as one of the world's most scenic commercial flights, offering spectacular Himalayan views and, on clear days, the opportunity to see Mount Everest and several other eight-thousand-metre peaks.
Many travellers recommend window seats on the left side of the aircraft when flying from Kathmandu to Paro and the right side when returning to Kathmandu, although views depend on weather conditions and routing.
Absolutely. Kathmandu is one of the most popular gateways for travellers wishing to explore both Nepal and Bhutan in a single Himalayan journey.
Economy Class passengers receive 30 kg of checked baggage and 7 kg of cabin baggage, while Business Class passengers receive 40 kg of checked baggage and 7 kg of cabin baggage.
Yes. Travellers may book Drukair flights only or arrange a complete Bhutan holiday through one of Drukair's authorised representatives.
Flying from Kathmandu is one of the quickest and most scenic ways to reach Bhutan. Whether you're travelling from Nepal or combining two remarkable Himalayan destinations in one journey, Drukair offers a comfortable and unforgettable flight to the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
If you're looking for a seamless Bhutan holiday, our authorised representatives can assist with your complete travel arrangements, including Drukair flights, Bhutan visa applications, tour packages, accommodation and personalised itineraries.
Flying from Kathmandu to Bhutan? Read Druk Asia latest Bhutan travel tips and how to travel to Bhutan from Kathmandu.
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