Route · Eastern Nepal
Kathmandu to Tumlingtar
Kathmandu to Tumlingtar is about 45 minutes by air, the usual way for Makalu trekkers. By road it is roughly 550–600 km and two days, via the East–West Highway, Itahari, Dharan, Dhankuta, Hile and Khandbari, a scenic route through the Koshi hills.
Scheduled flights run from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar, landing on the flat terrace above the Arun river. Services vary by season and are often delayed or cancelled by cloud, especially in the monsoon. We book morning flights and keep a spare day in Makalu itineraries. Check current status before you travel.
Drive from Kathmandu to Dharan or Dhankuta on day one, about 10–12 hours via the Sindhuli road or the East–West Highway, then continue through Hile and Khandbari to Tumlingtar on day two, about 6–8 hours. The drive passes Bhedetar, Dhankuta and Hile, all good overnight stops.
Fly Kathmandu to Biratnagar, about 40 minutes with frequent flights, then drive north via Itahari, Dharan, Dhankuta and Hile to Khandbari and Tumlingtar, roughly 8–10 hours. This is a reliable alternative when Tumlingtar flights are cancelled.
Worth a stop on the way
- Itahari
- Dharan
- Bhedetar
- Dhankuta
- Hile
- Khandbari
Local tip
If your Tumlingtar flight is cancelled, switch to the Biratnagar flight and drive north the same day rather than waiting.
Questions
How long is the flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar?
About 45 minutes. Schedules vary by season and flights are often affected by cloud, so build a spare day into any itinerary that depends on them. Check current status before you travel.
Can I drive from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar?
Yes. The road route runs via Dharan, Dhankuta, Hile and Khandbari, roughly 550–600 km, and usually takes two days. Long sections are paved, but landslides can cause delays in the monsoon.
Which is better for Makalu: Tumlingtar or Biratnagar?
Tumlingtar is closer and saves a day when flights operate. Biratnagar has more frequent and reliable flights, followed by a long drive north. We usually book Tumlingtar with Biratnagar as the backup plan.
What is the baggage limit on flights to Tumlingtar?
Domestic airlines in Nepal usually allow about 10–15 kg of checked baggage plus a small hand bag on these routes, with charges for extra weight. Limits vary by airline; check your ticket before you pack.