We arrange private pickups and drops at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu: a driver meets you outside the arrivals exit holding a board with your name and takes you straight to your hotel. Book it before you fly and you will not need to find or bargain for a taxi after a long journey.
Last checked: November 2026.
Get a quote on WhatsApp: +977 985-1022768
How the meet-and-greet works
- Before you fly: send us your flight number, arrival date and time, number of passengers, number of bags and your hotel name.
- Tell us your flight number and we will arrange the pickup time. If your flight changes, message us on WhatsApp so we can adjust it.
- After you exit the terminal, the driver is waiting with a board showing your name.
- The driver helps with your bags and drives you to your hotel.
Tell us your landing time when you enquire, including early-morning or late-night arrivals, and we will confirm the pickup.
Airport pickup and drop prices
The price is per vehicle, not per person, one way. Prices on request: send the form or WhatsApp us for a quote.
| Vehicle | Passengers | Bags | Airport to Thamel, one way |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car (sedan) | 1 to 3 | 2 to 3 large bags | On request |
| SUV | 3 to 5 | 4 to 5 large bags | On request |
| Hiace van | 6 to 12 | One duffel each | On request |
| Coaster | Larger groups | One bag each | On request |
For hotels outside Thamel, such as Boudha, Patan, Bhaktapur or Nagarkot, the price changes with distance. If you are booking a trek with us, ask whether an airport pickup is part of your package.
Arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport: step by step
1. Visa on arrival
Most nationalities can get a tourist visa on arrival. Fees are US$30 for 15 days, US$50 for 30 days and US$125 for 90 days. You can fill in the online tourist visa form before you travel and bring the receipt, or use the kiosks in the arrivals hall. Since August 2026 Nepal also offers an e-visa that you apply for online before you fly; visa on arrival is still available. Check the Department of Immigration website (immigration.gov.np) for the current process. If you pay on arrival, carry the fee in cash in US dollars or another major currency, as card payment cannot be relied on.
2. Immigration and baggage
After paying the visa fee, queue at immigration, then collect your bags from the baggage hall. Queues can be long when several international flights land together, so tell us your flight number and let the driver judge the time.
3. Customs
Pass through customs with your bags. Most tourists walk straight through.
4. Exit and meet your driver
Once outside, look for your name on a board. Porters at the exit may offer to carry your bags. You can decline politely. If you cannot find the driver, call or message us on WhatsApp at +977 985-1022768.
SIM card and money at the airport
- SIM cards: Ncell and Nepal Telecom usually have counters just outside the arrivals exit. Bring your passport. A local SIM is useful for maps and messaging your guide.
- Money: there are money exchange counters and ATMs at the airport. Exchange or withdraw enough for your first day. Thamel has many more ATMs and exchange counters, often at better rates.
- Tipping: tipping the driver is not required but is appreciated.
The drive to Thamel
The airport is about 6 km east of Thamel. The drive usually takes 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. Late at night it is quicker; in the late afternoon it can take longer.
Airport drop for your departure
For your flight home, the driver collects you from your hotel and drops you at the departures entrance. For international flights, plan to arrive at least three hours before departure, and check your airline’s advice. We will suggest a pickup time based on your flight and the traffic at that hour.
If you have a domestic flight to Pokhara, Lukla or elsewhere, note that the domestic terminal is a separate building, about 500 metres from the international terminal. Tell us which terminal you need.
FAQ
What happens if my flight is delayed?
Send us your flight number when booking, and message us on WhatsApp if your arrival time changes, so we can adjust the pickup time.
Can you pick me up at 2 am?
Several international flights land late at night or very early. Tell us your landing time when you enquire and we will confirm the pickup.
Is it cheaper to take a taxi?
Sometimes. There is a prepaid taxi counter in the arrivals area where you pay a posted fare before you leave the terminal, and taxis also wait outside. You will need rupees and may have to deal with this after a long flight. A pre-booked pickup has an agreed price and a driver who knows your hotel.
We are a group of ten with trekking bags. What do we need?
A Hiace van. See Hiace and van rental for seating and luggage details.
Can the driver take us straight to Pokhara from the airport?
Yes, though most people rest a night in Kathmandu first. See Kathmandu to Pokhara by private car.
For other transfers and vehicles, see vehicle rental in Nepal. Send us your flight details and we will confirm your pickup.