Loading map...
VNS → KTM
Which side of the plane to sit from Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport (Varanasi) to Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers an unparalleled panoramic view of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks, including the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, as the aircraft transitions from the Indian plains into the Kathmandu Valley.
Search flights from VNS to KTM
Varanasi Ghats
A brief aerial perspective of the ancient city and the sacred Ganges river immediately after departure.
Indo-Gangetic Plain
Vast stretches of emerald green and gold farmland spanning the border regions of India and Nepal.
The High Himalayas
Breathtaking views of the world's highest mountain range, including Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna massif on the horizon.
Cloud Seas
Often, the valleys below are filled with mist, leaving the white peaks appearing as islands in a sea of clouds.
Kathmandu Valley Approach
A close-up view of the terraced hillsides and traditional Newari architecture as the plane descends.
Request a window seat on the left (usually seat 'A'). Book morning flights (before 10:00 AM) for the clearest air and most vibrant lighting on the snow. Between October and March, visibility is at its peak; during monsoon season (June-September), the mountains are frequently obscured by clouds.
Get eSIMs for India
Get eSIMs for Nepal
Sarnath
The historic Buddhist pilgrimage site where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon, visible shortly after takeoff.
Chure Hills
The first dramatic rise of the Siwalik range, marking the geographic transition from the plains to the mountains.
Langtang Massif
Distant views of the Langtang and Jugal Himal ranges towards the north and east of the flight path.
Bagmati River
The winding course of the holy river as it snakes through the southern entrance of the Kathmandu Valley.
Phulchowki Hill
The highest hill surrounding the valley, often visible just before the final turn for landing.
The right side is generally better for seeing the urban density of Kathmandu and the eastern hills. If you are flying in the late afternoon, the right side may experience less direct glare from the sun, which is helpful for photography of the lower valley landscapes.
Book Hotels in KathmanduDistance: 352 km (219 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 35 min
Departure: VNS (25.4524002075, 82.85929870609999)
Arrival: KTM (27.6966, 85.3591)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.