On arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, follow the crowd to Immigration. Most visitors qualify for Visa on Arrival; bring cash, passport photos, and a filled disembarkation card. Collect baggage, exit through customs, and find currency exchange, pre-paid taxis, and SIM vendors. Pre-arranged pick-up options are also available.
Arrival Process
- TIA is a small airport, so follow the crowd after landing.
- A short bus ride or walk leads to the **arrival corridor**. Head to **Immigration**, where lanes are divided by Visa on Arrival, Travellers with Visa, Diplomats, and Nepali Citizens.
- Complete a **disembarkation card** (given during the flight or available in the arrival hall).
Visa on Arrival
- Nepal’s visa process is straightforward. Most visitors qualify for a Visa on Arrival.
- Bring **Visa fee in cash** (USD, Euros, or GBP), two photos, and a valid passport.
- For a quicker process, you can **apply online up to 14 days before arrival**. Print the confirmation and bring a passport copy with the visa fee in cash.
Baggage
- After immigration, proceed to the **baggage carousel area**. Only four carousels are available, so follow the crowd if signage is unclear.
- TOP TIP: Keep your baggage tag handy for verification at customs.
Exiting to the Arrival Hall
- Walk out through the Green Channel, present your baggage stub, and enter the Arrival Hall with:
- Currency exchange counters
- Pre-paid taxi services
- SIM card vendors
Heading to the City
- If you have a pick-up arranged, proceed outside the airport and look for a socialtours placard with your name, or follow the instructions we would have established on the WhatsApp group chat we would have created.
- TOP TIP: Let our representative handle your baggage but avoid other unsolicited porters, as they may expect tips.
- If going independently, consider the pre-paid taxi service for ease, especially on your first day.
Quick Note on Timing
- TIA is centrally located, so it’s generally a **short drive to city areas** like Thamel (around 30 minutes), though traffic can vary during rush hours.
