Nepal’s leading private airline, Buddha Air, has announced the resumption of its direct flight service between Kathmandu and Kolkata, starting October 19 (Kartik 2). The move marks a significant step in restoring regional connectivity and positions Buddha Air as the only Nepali carrier currently operating on this international route.
The service will operate three times a week—on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays—using ATR-72 aircraft. Flights will depart Kathmandu at 7:00 a.m. and return from Kolkata at 9:20 a.m. local time, with a flight duration of approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes. One-way fares begin at Rs 13,353, offering a competitive option for both business and leisure travellers.
The Kathmandu–Kolkata route was originally launched in April 2019, but operations were suspended in December 2019 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The relaunch reflects renewed demand for cross-border travel and tourism, particularly as regional economies recover and travel restrictions ease.
Expanding Tourism Opportunities
In conjunction with the flight resumption, Buddha Holidays, the airline’s sister company, will offer curated tour packages for Nepali travellers. These packages include visits to prominent Indian cultural and religious destinations such as Jagannath Puri, the Sundarbans, and Gangasagar. The initiative aims to promote outbound tourism while also attracting inbound travellers from India to Nepal.
The company stated that the packages are designed to provide “seamless travel experiences” for Nepali tourists seeking spiritual and cultural enrichment, while also offering Indian visitors tailored holiday options in Nepal’s scenic and heritage-rich locations.
Strengthening Regional Connectivity
Buddha Air currently operates over 70 domestic flights daily, connecting major cities and remote regions across Nepal. Internationally, the airline maintains a three-times-weekly service to Varanasi, India. The addition of Kolkata to its international network is expected to enhance mobility for travellers, business professionals, and pilgrims alike.
The airline’s management emphasized that the Kathmandu–Kolkata route serves not only tourism but also trade and cultural exchange. Kolkata, as a major metropolitan hub in eastern India, offers access to broader transportation networks, healthcare facilities, and commercial opportunities for Nepali citizens.
Strategic Timing and Market Demand
Industry analysts view the timing of the relaunch as strategic, coinciding with the festive season and increased travel demand across South Asia. The route is expected to benefit from growing interest in religious tourism, as well as the rising number of Nepali travellers seeking short-haul international experiences.
Buddha Air’s decision to re-enter the Kolkata market also reflects confidence in the region’s economic recovery and the airline’s commitment to expanding its international footprint.
For flight bookings and tour package details, travellers can visit www.buddhaair.com.
About Buddha Air
Founded in 1997, Buddha Air is Nepal’s largest private airline, known for its extensive domestic network and growing international services. The airline operates a fleet of ATR aircraft and is recognized for its safety record, punctuality, and customer service. Through its subsidiary Buddha Holidays, the company offers travel packages that combine air transport with curated tourism experiences across South Asia.
