While takeoff favors the left, the landing approach is significantly more scenic. Right-side seats capture the Annapurna Range and Phewa Lake during descent, which are the defining visual features of this route. The landing view outweighs the takeoff advantage.
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Flight Path
Kathmandu to Pokhara is 89 miles (143 km), a flight of about 30 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Mahabharat Range's northern slopes, then descends into the Pokhara Valley. En route, you'll pass over forested ridges and river valleys (including sections of the Trisuli and Marsyandi river systems) before reaching the Pokhara basin. The Annapurna Range becomes increasingly prominent as you approach Pokhara from the southeast.
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from KTM
LEFTLeft-side seats offer the best view during climb-out from Kathmandu. The aircraft departs northwestward, and left windows face the Himalayan foothills and the Kathmandu Valley rim. You'll see the valley floor receding below and the forested ridges of the Mahabharat Range rising to the north.
Landing at PHH
RIGHTRight-side seats provide superior views during descent into Pokhara. The aircraft approaches from the southeast, and right windows face the Annapurna Range and Phewa Lake directly. You'll see Phewa Lake's distinctive shape and the dramatic mountain backdrop that defines Pokhara's geography.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Tribhuvan International (KTM) to Pokhara International Airport (PHH)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Kathmandu to Pokhara. While takeoff favors the left, the landing approach is significantly more scenic. Right-side seats capture the Annapurna Range and Phewa Lake during descent, which are the defining visual features of this route. The landing view outweighs the takeoff advantage.
What can I see during takeoff from Tribhuvan International in Kathmandu?
During takeoff from Tribhuvan International (KTM), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats offer the best view during climb-out from Kathmandu. The aircraft departs northwestward, and left windows face the Himalayan foothills and the Kathmandu Valley rim. You'll see the valley floor receding below and the forested ridges of the Mahabharat Range rising to the north. Notable sights include: Kathmandu Valley floor with scattered urban development, Mahabharat Range (northern rim of the valley), Shivapuri Lekh ridge, Nagarjun Hill.
What can I see when landing at Pokhara International Airport in Pokhara?
When landing at Pokhara International Airport (PHH), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats provide superior views during descent into Pokhara. The aircraft approaches from the southeast, and right windows face the Annapurna Range and Phewa Lake directly. You'll see Phewa Lake's distinctive shape and the dramatic mountain backdrop that defines Pokhara's geography. Notable sights include: Phewa Lake (largest lake in the region), Annapurna Range (including Annapurna South and Hiunchuli), Pokhara Valley floor, Sarangkot ridge.
How long is the flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara?
The flight from Tribhuvan International (KTM) to Pokhara International Airport (PHH) takes about 30 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 89 miles (143 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Kathmandu to Pokhara flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Mahabharat Range's northern slopes, then descends into the Pokhara Valley. En route, you'll pass over forested ridges and river valleys (including sections of the Trisuli and Marsyandi river systems) before reaching the Pokhara basin. The Annapurna Range becomes increasingly prominent as you approach Pokhara from the southeast.