Bhadrapur Airport (BDP)

Bhadrapur, NP 🇳🇵 Small Airport Scheduled Service

ICAO

VNCG

IATA

BDP

Elevation

300 ft

Region

NP-P1

Local Time

Loading...

Loading...

Airport Information

GPS Code: VNCG

Local Code: Not available

Location: 26.570801° N, 88.079597° E

Continent: Asia

Type: Small Airport

Keywords: Chandragadhi Airport

About Bhadrapur Airport

Updated: Jan 2, 2026

Bhadrapur Airport (IATA: BDP, ICAO: VNCG), also known as Chandragadhi Airport, is a vital domestic air hub located in the Jhapa District of eastern Nepal. It serves as the primary gateway for travelers visiting the region's tea estates in Ilam, trekking routes in Panchthar and Taplejung, and for those crossing the border into India via the nearby Kakarbhitta crossing. Established on November 15, 1963, it is one of Nepal's older airports and has played a consistent role in connecting the country's eastern plains with the capital. Over the years, its runway and facilities have been upgraded to accommodate larger domestic aircraft, solidifying its importance for both tourism and local commerce.

The airport is situated approximately five kilometers southwest of Bhadrapur's main town center. Its strategic location also places it about 25 kilometers from the bustling commercial city of Birtamod and a similar distance from the India-Nepal border at Kakarbhitta. Access to and from the airport is primarily facilitated by local transportation. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available outside the terminal building for travel to nearby towns and the border. There are no scheduled public bus services that run directly to the airport, making private hire the most convenient option for travelers.

Operations at Bhadrapur Airport are exclusively domestic, with multiple daily flights connecting to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu. Major Nepalese carriers such as Buddha Air, Yeti Airlines, and Shree Airlines are the primary operators on this route, typically utilizing ATR 72 turboprop aircraft. The airport handles a significant volume of passenger traffic for a regional facility, reflecting its role as a key entry point to eastern Nepal.

The airport features a single, modest terminal building that services both arrivals and departures. Inside, passengers will find basic but functional amenities, including airline check-in counters, a security screening area, and a common waiting lounge. While facilities are limited, there are a few small canteens and shops offering snacks, beverages, and local products. Restrooms are available, but there are no executive lounges or extensive retail options.

For a smooth travel experience, passengers are advised to arrive at least one hour before their scheduled departure time. It is recommended to negotiate the fare with taxi or auto-rickshaw drivers before beginning a journey from the airport. Travelers should also be aware that flights, particularly during the monsoon season from June to September, can be subject to delays or cancellations due to adverse weather conditions, so building some flexibility into travel itineraries is prudent.

AI-Generated Content: This description was compiled using AI from publicly available sources. Information may change; please verify with official airport sources for current details.

What Travelers Say

Rate this airport:
--/5 (0 ratings)

Share Your Tip

Help fellow travelers by sharing your experience at Bhadrapur Airport. Tips are reviewed before publishing.

0/1000 characters
We'll only use this to notify you when your tip is approved.

Online Reviews Summary

Traveler experiences at Bhadrapur Airport (BDP) reveal a mix of appreciation for its convenient location and stunning views, alongside recurring concerns regarding its facilities and upkeep. While the airport serves as a crucial gateway to Eastern Nepal, overall traveler sentiment suggests a functional rather than a highly satisfying experience.

What Travelers Love
  • Scenic Location: The airport is noted for its picturesque surroundings, offering majestic views of the Himalayas upon arrival and departure.
  • Convenient Access: Bhadrapur Airport acts as a vital entry point for exploring Eastern Nepal, including popular destinations like Ilam and as a base for trekkers heading to Mt. Kanchenjunga.
  • Efficient Check-in: Travelers generally report positive experiences with the check-in process.
  • Accessible Transportation & Parking: Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available, and secure parking facilities (both short and long-term) are provided.
  • Straightforward Security & Customs: Security checks are managed by trained personnel, and customs procedures for domestic flights are typically straightforward with minimal delays. Average security wait times are around 26-29 minutes, and immigration around 8 minutes.
Common Complaints
  • Terminal Facilities & Cleanliness: Satisfaction with terminal facilities is moderate, with some recent reviews describing the airport as "unmanaged and dirty" or "functional but not attractive".
  • Limited Amenities: Travelers report low satisfaction with WiFi and food and retail services. There are limited shopping options, minimal souvenir selection, and no formal lounge.
  • No Direct International Transfers: Bhadrapur Airport is a domestic airport and does not offer direct transfer services to international destinations or nearby popular tourist spots like Gangtok. Travelers need to arrange private transfers or utilize the nearby Bagdogra Airport for such connections.

In summary, Bhadrapur Airport offers a practical and scenic entry point to Eastern Nepal, particularly for domestic travel. While it is praised for its location and essential services like parking and efficient check-in, improvements in terminal amenities, cleanliness, and diverse food and retail options would significantly enhance the overall traveler experience.

Last updated: 66 days ago
Loading...

Researching traveler experiences online...

Unable to generate sentiment summary. Please try again later.

Community Tips

No community tips yet for Bhadrapur Airport.

Be the first to share a helpful tip for fellow travelers!

Current Weather Conditions

Loading weather data...

Loading weather data...


Airport Routes

Route Network Map

Loading route map... Tap fullscreen button for better mobile experience

Top Routes (by observations)

Newly Discovered

Popular Flight Routes

0 destinations displayed
Destination IATA City Aircraft Type Airline Details Route Map
Loading...
Loading routes...

Top Airlines

Operating at Bhadrapur Airport

Airlines by Flight Activity

Based on observed flight operations and route network
Airline Routes Flights Destinations Last Activity
Buddha Air
BHA / U4
1 91 1 Feb 9, 2026
1 65 1 Feb 9, 2026
1 15 1 Feb 9, 2026

For Pilots

Designation Length Width Surface Status
10/28 3965 ft 95 ft ASP Active

Type Description Frequency
AFIS AFIS 122.5 MHz

Ident Name Type Frequency
JPA Chandragadhi NDB 397 kHz

Ground Transportation

Last updated: Nov 21, 2025

Taxis

Taxis are the most convenient option and are readily available directly outside the airport terminal. Fares are typically not metered, so it is essential to negotiate and agree on a price with the driver before starting your trip. Taxis can take you to nearby destinations like Bhadrapur Bazaar, Chandragadhi, Birtamod, Kakarvitta (Nepal-India border), and further afield to places like Ilam.

Rental Cars

There are no major international car rental companies with desks at the airport. Car rentals, almost always with a driver included, can be arranged through local travel agencies or tour operators. It is highly recommended to pre-book a vehicle, especially for longer journeys or if you require a specific type of vehicle (e.g., a 4x4 for hilly terrain). Self-drive rentals are uncommon in the region.

Public Transportation

There is no direct public bus service from the airport terminal. To access public transport, you must walk a short distance (around 500 meters) to the main Bhadrapur-Chandragadhi road. From there, you can catch local buses, microbuses, and electric rickshaws (tempos) to nearby towns like Bhadrapur Bazaar and Chandragadhi, where you can find connecting services to major hubs like Birtamod, Damak, and Kakarvitta.

AI-Generated Content: This ground transportation information was compiled using AI from publicly available sources. Prices, schedules, and availability may change; please verify with official airport or transportation provider websites before traveling.

Nearby Airports

Bagdogra Airport
IXB • VEBD
Siliguri, IN
Medium Airport Scheduled Service
~28 km away
Biratnagar Airport
BIR • VNVT
Biratnagar, NP
Medium Airport Scheduled Service
~82 km away
Taplejung Airport
TPJ • VNTJ
Taplejung, NP
Medium Airport Scheduled Service
~94 km away
Tumling Tar Airport
TMI • VNTR
Tumling Tar, NP
Small Airport Scheduled Service
~121 km away
Saidpur Airport
SPD • VGSD
Saidpur, BD
Medium Airport Scheduled Service
~122 km away
Bagdogra Airport
IXB • VEBD
Siliguri, IN
Medium Airport Scheduled Service
~28 km away
Biratnagar Airport
BIR • VNVT
Biratnagar, NP
Medium Airport Scheduled Service
~82 km away
Taplejung Airport
TPJ • VNTJ
Taplejung, NP
Medium Airport Scheduled Service
~94 km away
Saidpur Airport
SPD • VGSD
Saidpur, BD
Medium Airport Scheduled Service
~122 km away
Hashimara Air Force Station
VEHX
Jalpaiguri, IN
Medium Airport
~129 km away
Kishanganj Airport
VEKG
Kishanganj, IN
Small Airport
~57 km away
Thakurgaon Airport
TKR • VGSG
Thakurgaon, BD
Small Airport
~69 km away
Pakyong Airport
PYG • VEPY
Pakyong, IN
Small Airport
~89 km away
Purnea Airport
VEPU
NoneIN
Small Airport
~112 km away
Bhojpur Airport
BHP • VNBJ
Bhojpur, NP
Small Airport
~121 km away
Tumling Tar Airport
TMI • VNTR
Tumling Tar, NP
Small Airport Scheduled Service
~121 km away
Thamkharka Airport
VNTH
Khotang Bazar, NP
Small Airport
~132 km away
Rajbiraj Airport
RJB • VNRB
Rajbiraj, NP
Small Airport
~134 km away
Sevoke Road Indian Army Heliport
IN-0035
Salugara, IN
Heliport
~43 km away
Lebong Helipad
IN-0039
Lebong, IN
Heliport
~58 km away
Namchi Helipad
IN-0037
Nayabazar, IN
Heliport
~69 km away
Pelling Helipad
IN-0036
Pelling City, IN
Heliport
~82 km away
Pedong Helipad
IN-0040
Pedong, IN
Heliport
~84 km away
Dalapchand Heliport
IN-0179
Aritar, IN
Heliport
~91 km away
Upper Tadong Indian Army Helipad
IN-0038
Upper Tadong, IN
Heliport
~97 km away
Pathibhara Lodge Heliport
NP-0018
Taplejung, NP
Heliport
~99 km away
Distances are approximate and calculated as straight-line distances.