Nepal’s private carrier Buddha Air will resume direct flights between Kathmandu and Kolkata from 19 October 2025, reconnecting the two cities after a gap of several years. The airline will operate the service three times a week using its ATR 72 aircraft.
The flights will run on Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays, with a journey time of approximately one hour and thirty five minutes. Airline officials have said that introductory fares will start at ₹13,353 for a one way ticket from Kathmandu. Ticket bookings have already opened, and early demand is reported to be encouraging.
Buddha Air had first launched the Kathmandu to Kolkata route in 2019, but operations were later suspended due to the pandemic and changing aviation conditions. With the relaunch, Kolkata becomes Buddha Air’s second Indian destination after Varanasi, a city that continues to attract Nepali tourists and pilgrims.
The airline’s travel subsidiary, Buddha Holidays, is also preparing special holiday packages to complement the flight service. These packages will target both Indian and Nepali travellers, highlighting cultural and spiritual destinations. For visitors from India, attractions in Nepal such as the Pashupatinath temple, Lumbini, and Himalayan trekking routes are expected to be promoted. Nepali tourists, meanwhile, will be offered trips to Indian destinations including Kolkata, Bodh Gaya and other pilgrimage centres.
Tourism stakeholders in both countries have welcomed the resumption of the route. Travel operators in Kolkata said the direct link would significantly reduce travel time and encourage more Indian tourists to explore Nepal. Industry experts noted that previously many travellers had to route through Delhi or other hubs, making the journey longer and less convenient.
Officials in Nepal described the development as an important step for bilateral relations. Improved connectivity, they said, would boost tourism, facilitate business exchanges and strengthen people to people contact. The resumption comes at a time when India and Nepal have been looking to deepen cooperation in cultural, economic and aviation sectors.
Observers also point out the symbolic importance of the timing. The relaunch of the flights coincides with the festive season in both countries, a period when tourism traditionally rises. Airlines and hospitality operators expect strong demand in the months ahead, especially from religious and cultural tourists.
The ATR 72 aircraft chosen for the route is suited for short haul regional flights and offers seating for around 70 passengers. Industry analysts said the choice reflects the expected demand profile, balancing capacity with operational costs. Buddha Air has indicated that if demand grows, it may consider additional flights or larger aircraft in the future.
The aviation sector in Nepal has faced challenges in recent years, including concerns about safety standards and the impact of global travel disruptions. However, the successful expansion of Buddha Air into the Indian market is seen as a positive signal for the industry. It underscores the airline’s intention to build stronger regional connectivity despite challenges.
Local travel agents have already reported interest from tourists eager to take advantage of the convenience of direct flights. For families, students and professionals who travel between Nepal and eastern India, the service is expected to be both time saving and cost effective.
As 19 October approaches, officials in both countries are finalising logistical arrangements including airport coordination, passenger handling and customs clearance processes. With expectations of steady traffic, the service is being closely watched as a test case for further regional routes between Nepal and India.
