Nepal Election Day 2026: Nationwide Domestic Flight Suspension and Travel Guide

Published on February 24, 2026

Image generated with Ai

For a country defined by its soaring peaks and the constant hum of Twin Otter planes ferrying trekkers into the clouds, the sky over Nepal is about to go remarkably quiet. On March 5, 2026, Nepal will hold a pivotal General Election, and as is tradition in the Himalayan nation, the government has mandated a 24-hour suspension of all domestic flights.

This decision, aimed at ensuring national security and allowing airline staff to participate in the democratic process, is part of a broader nationwide “shutdown” of non-essential transportation. If you are a traveler, a trekker, or a local resident, here is everything you need to know about navigating Nepal during this historic moment.

The “Why” Behind the Grounding

The suspension of domestic air travel is a standard protocol in Nepal during major elections. The 2026 election carries particular weight, following the “Gen Z protests” of late 2025 that led to the dissolution of Parliament and the formation of an interim government under Prime Minister Sushila Karki.+1

By grounding domestic flights—including popular routes to Lukla, Pokhara, and Bhairahawa—the Election Commission aims to:

• Ensure Security: Minimizing movement helps security forces maintain a “Code Green” environment across the 77 districts.
• Enable Voting: It allows the thousands of employees in the aviation sector to return to their home villages to cast their ballots.
• Manage Resources: With a massive deployment of the Nepal Army and Police for election duty, air resources are reserved strictly for emergency and authorized personnel.

International Flights: The Exception to the Rule

The most important thing for international visitors to remember is that Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) remains open for international arrivals and departures. If you have a flight from Delhi, Doha, or Istanbul, your plane will still land.

However, the challenge lies in the “last mile.” Because private vehicles, taxis, and buses are also restricted on election day, getting from the airport to your hotel in Thamel or Patan requires planning.

Pro Tip: The Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and the Tourist Police typically operate dedicated shuttle buses on election day. these buses run between TIA and major hotel hubs to ensure foreign visitors aren’t stranded on the curb.

Trekking: Politics Doesn’t Climb Above 3,000 Meters

One of the most frequent questions from the trekking community is: Is it safe to be on the trail during the election?

The short answer is: Absolutely. Nepal’s mountain regions remain largely untouched by the political rallies and restrictions of the city. If you are already in the Khumbu (Everest) or Annapurna regions, your day will proceed as usual. Tea houses stay open, guides continue to lead, and the trails remain peaceful.+1

The only “disruption” for trekkers is the logistical bookends. You cannot fly into or out of Lukla on March 5th, nor can you catch a jeep to a trailhead. If your trek was supposed to start on election day, you should plan to arrive at your starting point at least 48 hours early or spend a quiet day in Kathmandu.

The “Gen Z” Election: A New Atmosphere

The 2026 election is unique. Following the youth-led uprisings of 2025, the voting age was lowered to 16, and the mood on the ground is one of high engagement. Travelers will likely see vibrant (yet generally peaceful) rallies in the days leading up to March 5th.+1

While the “Silence Period” (48 hours before the vote) bans campaigning and alcohol sales, the day of the election itself often feels like a community festival. With no cars on the roads, the streets of Kathmandu become a playground for children and a gathering spot for neighbors—a rare, tranquil version of a city usually defined by traffic.

Essential Advice for March 2026 Travelers

If your itinerary overlaps with the March 5th election, follow these human-centered tips for a stress-free experience:

1. Avoid Travel on March 4 & 5: Don’t book any inter-city bus rides or domestic flights. Use March 5th as a “rest and recharge” day in your hotel.
2. Stock Up Early: Banks and ATMs may close or run low on cash. Withdraw what you need by March 3rd.
3. Stay Neutral: As a guest in the country, avoid wearing clothing with political symbols (like the sun, tree, or sickle and hammer) and steer clear of large rallies.
4. Confirm Your Shuttle: If you are arriving internationally on March 5th, contact your hotel in advance to see if they have a special permit to pick you up, or check the NTB shuttle schedule.

Conclusion: Witnessing Democracy in the Clouds

While a flight suspension might seem like a headache, it’s actually a unique window into the heart of Nepali culture. Seeing the country stop to decide its future is a privilege that few travelers get to witness. By planning around the 24-hour window, you can ensure that your Himalayan adventure remains a smooth climb.