Pokhara Regional International Airport (PRIA) is set to begin regular international flights for the first time since its inauguration, with Himalaya Airlines announcing a weekly flight between Pokhara and Lhasa starting today, March 31, 2025.

Issuing a recent statement, Himalaya Airlines said its first inbound flight from Lhasa (H9 731) will arrive in Pokhara at 12:45 PM local time today, while the first outbound flight from Pokhara to Lhasa (H9 732) will depart at 8:20 AM on Tuesday, April 1, marking a significant milestone for the airport which has struggled to attract international flights since its opening more than two years ago.

Until now, PRIA has only handled around two dozen chartered flights, primarily to and from China.

Himalaya Airlines' new route is expected to boost tourism in the region. The airline said it will initially operate a weekly service on the Kathmandu-Lhasa-Pokhara-Lhasa-Kathmandu route, with plans to increase the frequency based on demand.

Vijay Shrestha, vice-president and spokesperson for Himalaya Airlines, emphasized the airline’s commitment to promoting tourism and exploring new routes. “Our mission is to operate flights to 10 different tourism sectors in China and welcome one million Chinese tourists to Nepal. With this new route, we aim to provide a seamless travel experience while maintaining the highest safety standards,” he said.

Sichuan Airlines has also started chartered flights to PRIA from Chengdu, China since March 18 and is expected to operate such flights at regular interval.

The launch of regular international flights from Pokhara is expected to enhance accessibility for foreign visitors, strengthening Nepal’s tourism industry while also positioning Pokhara as a key gateway for travel between Nepal and Tibet.

A Sichuan Airlines aircraft flies towards Chengdu, China, from Pokhara International Airport on March 18, 2025. Photo: RSS