Gautam Buddha International Airport (BWA)

Siddharthanagar (Bhairahawa), NP 🇳🇵 Medium Airport Scheduled Service

ICAO

VNBW

IATA

BWA

Elevation

358 ft

Region

NP-P5

Local Time

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Airport Information

GPS Code: VNBW

Local Code: Not available

Location: 27.505328° N, 83.412594° E

Continent: AS

Type: Medium Airport

Keywords: Bhairahawa Airport

External Links

Public Transportation
Links verified by AI • Last updated: Nov 21, 2025
Nearby Points of Interest

What Travelers Say

AI-Generated Summary Based on web research

Recent traveler sentiment at Gautam Buddha International Airport (BWA) in Siddharthanagar (Bhairahawa), Nepal, is largely mixed. While domestic operations and the efficiency of security and immigration are generally well-regarded, significant frustration exists regarding the inconsistent and often absent international flight schedule, which has led to concerns about the airport's underutilization despite substantial investment.

What Travelers Love
  • Efficient Security and Immigration: Travelers highly value the efficiency of security and immigration processes, with an average rating of 9.0. Current estimates show security wait times around 29 minutes and immigration at 9 minutes.
  • Valued Terminal Access: Access to the airport terminal is considered positive by travelers.
  • Gateway to Lumbini: The airport serves as a primary entry point for pilgrims and tourists visiting Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha.
  • Good Domestic Connectivity: Major Nepalese domestic airlines, such as Buddha Air, offer daily direct flights to Bhairahawa from Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • Convenient Parking: On-site parking is available, with affordable daily rates for motorcycles (30 rupees) and cars (60 rupees). Parking providers often include free shuttle service and 24/7 security.
Common Complaints
  • Lack of Consistent International Flights: The most significant complaint is the prolonged suspension and irregular schedule of international flights, leading to deep frustration among local businesses and residents. International flights were satisfactory only for a brief period in early 2025 when Tribhuvan International Airport was undergoing maintenance.
  • Subpar Services and Cleanliness: Compared to other airports, the services and cleanliness at Gautam Buddha International Airport are considered "very unpopular" by travelers.
  • Underutilization of International Infrastructure: Despite being built as an international hub, the airport has largely failed to ensure regular international operations, prompting accusations of government disinterest and pressure from larger travel agencies in Kathmandu.

In summary, Gautam Buddha International Airport excels in domestic connectivity and efficient processing for passengers. However, its potential as an international gateway remains largely untapped, leading to dissatisfaction among stakeholders regarding the inconsistent operation of international flights and perceived shortcomings in general services and cleanliness.

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This summary is automatically generated by AI based on web research of traveler reviews and experiences. AI-generated content may not always be 100% accurate.

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Airport Routes

Top Routes (by observations)
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Destination IATA City Aircraft Type Airline Details Route Map
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Top Airlines

Operating at Gautam Buddha International Airport
Airlines by Flight Activity
Based on observed flight operations and route network
Airline Routes Flights Destinations Last Activity
Buddha Air
BHA / U4
2 96 2 Nov 28, 2025
1 43 1 Nov 28, 2025
1 23 1 Nov 28, 2025
For Pilots

Designation Length Width Surface Status
10/28 9843 ft 148 ft ASP Active Lighted

Type Description Frequency
TWR TWR 122.5 MHz

Ident Name Type Frequency
BHW Bhairahawa NDB 345 kHz
BWA Bhairahawa VOR-DME 114700 kHz

Ground Transportation

Last updated: Nov 21, 2025
Taxis

Taxis are the most common and convenient way to travel from the airport. You can find them readily available outside the arrival terminal. For a hassle-free experience with a fixed, government-approved rate, it is highly recommended to use the prepaid taxi service counter located inside the terminal building. Taxis can take you directly to Bhairahawa city, Lumbini, or other nearby destinations.

Rental Cars

Car rental services are available, though they are typically operated by local travel and tour companies rather than major international brands. It is best to arrange a rental car in advance. Most car rentals in the region come with a driver included; self-drive options are less common and may require specific permits. Your pre-booked driver will meet you at the arrivals hall.

Public Transportation

Public transportation is the most budget-friendly option but is less convenient for travelers with luggage. There are no direct bus routes from the terminal itself. You would need to walk a short distance to the main road (Siddhartha Highway) to catch local buses or microbuses. These services connect to Bhairahawa bus park, from where you can get onward transport to Lumbini and other cities. Auto-rickshaws are also available on the main road for shorter distances.

Nearby Airports

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GOP • VEGK
Gorakhpur, IN
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~85 km away
Pokhara Airport
PKR • VNPK
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~95 km away
Pokhara International Airport
PHH • NP-0003
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Bharatpur Airport
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Shravasti Airport
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Jomsom Airport
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Gorakhpur Airport
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Kushinagar International Airport
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Pokhara Airport
PKR • VNPK
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Pokhara International Airport
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Bharatpur Airport
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Rolpa Airport
RPA • VNRP
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Dhorpatan Airport
VNDR
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Palungtar Airport
GKH • VNGK
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Tulsipur Airport
DNP • VNDG
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Shravasti Airport
VSV • VISV
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~136 km away
Fertilizer Colony Helipad
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~76 km away
MMMUT Heliport
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Heliport
~86 km away
Distances are approximate and calculated as straight-line distances.