The short answer
Most visitors go by air. Fly Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, then onward to Surkhet, Jumla, Simikot or Juphal depending on your plan. Nepalgunj is the practical overnight base because early flights depart from there. The alternative is road travel, which is long, with the Ratna Highway from Nepalgunj to Surkhet and the demanding Karnali Highway beyond.
Weather often delays mountain flights, so build in spare days both ways, and avoid linking international connections tightly. Check current flight and road conditions with a local operator before you finalise dates.
Key facts
- Main gateway
- Nepalgunj
- Flights to
- Surkhet, Jumla, Simikot, Juphal
- Road
- Slow; check conditions
- Buffer
- 2 or more days
How it works
- Fly to NepalgunjStay overnight.
- Take the early flightTo your airstrip.
- Travel locallyJeep or foot.
- Plan the returnKeep spare days.
Insider tip
Fly to Nepalgunj the day before your mountain flight.
Avoid this
Do not rely on a single morning flight for a tight schedule.
Related questions
Can I drive from Kathmandu?
Yes but it is very long; flying is practical.
Is Surkhet airport busy?
Small; flights vary by season.
Plan your Nepal trip in 60 seconds
Answer four short questions. We show trips that fit, and a planner can send a route and price. Free, no payment.
Trips that match this guide
Keep reading
More guides to explore
- PokharaDays, flight or road, season, stay, things to do and cost.
- Lakes and ViewpointsEasy lakes, remote lakes and sunrise viewpoints.
- Nagarkot and DhulikhelWhich to choose, nights needed and when views are real.
- Rara Lake and IlamReaching them, best season and whether they are worth it.
- All Nepal guidesBrowse every place and theme.
