New Chapter for Kolkata-Kathmandu Air Travel: Direct Flights Return After 11 Months

Written By: Abhirup Gan

Abhirup Gan

I'm Abhirup Gan, a Mass Communication graduate and digital marketing professional. Driven by a passion for storytelling, I create insightful, research-led content that explores tourism trends, destination stories, and hospitality developments with depth and clarity. Through my writing, I hope to inspire readers to discover not only where to travel, but the stories, cultures, and experiences that make every journey meaningful.

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July 11, 2025 6:43 PM

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In a much-needed boost to travel links between India and Nepal, Kolkata and Kathmandu are set to have their direct connection restored by Buddha Air starting September 1, 2025, ending an 11-month closure. The route, which had been shut after several logistical challenges, will offer the traveling public a convenient and expeditious connection between the two major cities again, reducing travel times significantly as well as local air connectivity.

It is a return to comfort for Indians, as heretofore, they had been obliged to transfer through Delhi when traveling to Kathmandu. Restoration of the direct route gives the traveller a better, speedier mode of travel, as the aircraft spends almost two hours in the air as opposed to the lengthy transfer periods of the older indirect route.

Buddha Air, one of Nepal’s leading carriers, will operate the direct flights using its ATR 72-500 aircraft, a regional turboprop plane that is well-suited for medium-haul routes like this one. The airline will operate four weekly flights on the Kolkata-Kathmandu route, scheduled for Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. This will provide Indian tourists and business travelers with more flexibility in their travel plans.

Strengthening India-Nepal Relations Through Enhanced Air Connectivity

The reintroduction of direct flights between Kolkata and Kathmandu is seen as a key step in improving bilateral relations between India and Nepal. The two countries share not only a deep cultural bond but also significant trade relations. Facilitating easier air travel will help enhance tourism, business exchanges, and people-to-people contact between the two nations.

Tourism Benefits and Economic Growth

The direct flight connection is expected to bolster tourism in both countries, with Kolkata being a key gateway for Indian tourists wishing to visit Nepal’s cultural and natural attractions. Similarly, Kathmandu serves as the gateway to Nepal’s most famous trekking and cultural sites, such as Mount Everest and Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha.

By reintroducing this route, both India and Nepal will benefit from increased tourism revenue, with a greater number of travelers able to visit the neighboring country without the added inconvenience of additional connections. The Kolkata-Kathmandu route holds particular importance for Nepal’s tourism sector, as it provides a direct link to one of India’s largest metropolitan areas. Moreover, Kolkata is home to a large Nepali diaspora, many of whom regularly travel between the two countries to visit family or attend cultural events.

Connectivity for Business Travelers

The return of direct flights is also crucial for business travelers who need quick access to either city. Kathmandu, as Nepal’s economic and political center, is a hub for trade, commerce, and diplomatic affairs. Kolkata, on the other hand, is one of India’s oldest and largest cities, with strong ties to the growing Indian economy. Business leaders in both regions will benefit from the improved connectivity, which will make it easier to manage business operations and partnerships across the two countries.

The direct flight service offers a convenient, cost-effective solution for those involved in cross-border trade, particularly in industries such as tourism, manufacturing, and technology. It will also facilitate smoother travel for diplomats and government officials, strengthening bilateral ties and diplomatic cooperation between India and Nepal.

What Travelers Can Expect from the New Flights

Passengers aboard the Kolkata-Kathmandu flight will enjoy the comfort of Buddha Air’s ATR 72-500 aircraft. The airline is known for its reliable service and well-maintained aircraft, offering comfortable seating, in-flight refreshments, and friendly crew members to make the journey as pleasant as possible.

Buddha Air has also indicated that it will implement enhanced safety protocols in response to ongoing global health concerns, ensuring that travelers can have a worry-free experience from departure to arrival.

Additionally, the airline plans to offer competitive pricing for these flights, with fares starting at around ₹4,500 for a one-way ticket. This affordability makes the route accessible to a wide range of passengers, including tourists, families, and business professionals.

The Role of Buddha Air in the Nepal-India Market

Founded in 1997, Buddha Air has grown to become one of Nepal’s leading domestic carriers, known for its punctuality, quality service, and affordable fares. The airline has steadily expanded its international network, with the Kolkata route being its second international destination after Varanasi, India. Buddha Air’s extensive network across Nepal, including flights to Pokhara, Biratnagar, and Lukla, offers travelers easy connections to multiple cities, making it a convenient option for those wishing to explore Nepal’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage.

With the Kolkata-Kathmandu route, Buddha Air aims to strengthen its position in the Indian market while offering Indian tourists greater access to Nepal’s rich cultural and natural offerings. This development is also a sign of Nepal’s growing focus on promoting itself as a destination for leisure tourism, particularly among Indian travelers.

Conclusion: A Win for Travelers and Regional Relations

The resumption of direct flights between Kolkata and Kathmandu marks an exciting development for both countries. Travelers from India will now have a quicker, more efficient way to explore Nepal’s breathtaking scenery, rich history, and spiritual landmarks. The route will also help foster greater business and tourism ties between the two countries, strengthening the connection between India and Nepal and enhancing bilateral cooperation.

For Buddha Air, the new Kolkata-Kathmandu flights represent a significant milestone in its international expansion, bringing a new level of convenience to travelers seeking to explore one of the most vibrant cultural hubs in the world. With the first flight set to take off on September 1, 2025, this route is expected to be a game-changer for the region’s aviation and tourism industries.

(Source: Buddha Air.)