Bharatpur Airport (BHR)

Bharatpur Airport (IATA: BHR, ICAO: VNBP) is a key domestic airport located in the Chitwan District of Nepal's Bagmati Province. It serves as the primary air gateway to Bharatpur, the country's fourth-largest city, but its main importance lies in its role as the principal access point for tourists visiting Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The airport provides a vital and time-saving link between the central Terai plains and Nepal’s major urban and tourism centers, significantly boosting the region's accessibility for both domestic and international visitors.

Established on July 4, 1958, Bharatpur Airport began with a grass runway and has since developed into an essential component of Nepal's domestic aviation network. Its history is closely tied to the growth of tourism in Chitwan. The airport is conveniently situated just 1.5 kilometers southwest of Bharatpur's city center, making it easily accessible. Travelers can reach the terminal from the city in minutes via taxi or auto-rickshaw. For those heading to the tourist hub of Sauraha, near the national park entrance, taxis and pre-arranged hotel shuttles are readily available for the 15-kilometer journey.

The airport exclusively handles domestic flights. Operations are dominated by major Nepalese carriers, with Buddha Air being the most prominent operator, offering multiple daily flights. The primary routes connect Bharatpur with Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) and Pokhara International Airport (PKR), with flight durations of approximately 20-25 minutes. These short flights are a popular alternative to the lengthy and often challenging overland journeys from these cities. The airport consists of a single, modest terminal building designed for functional domestic travel.

Facilities at Bharatpur Airport are basic, reflecting its size and operational scope. The terminal includes a simple check-in area, a security checkpoint, a waiting lounge for departing passengers, and a baggage claim area. Amenities are limited, with a small snack counter often available for refreshments. There are no expansive lounges, duty-free shops, or a wide variety of restaurants. For travelers, it is advisable to arrive 60 to 90 minutes prior to their scheduled departure. It is crucial to be aware that flights in Nepal, particularly to regional airports like Bharatpur, are susceptible to delays or cancellations due to weather conditions, such as heavy fog in the winter or monsoon rains. Travelers with onward connections, especially international flights from Kathmandu, should build extra buffer time into their itineraries to account for potential disruptions.