Jiri Airport (JIR)

Jiri Airport (VNJI (JIR)) in Jiri, Nepal, is not currently in operation. Its status was listed as "Not in Operation" as of February 2020. Therefore, there are no recent traveler reviews or experiences available to summarize regarding the airport's facilities, security, or transportation connections. Information found about wait times appears to be generic or for other airports.

Despite the airport's closure, Jiri town itself remains a significant destination, often referred to as the "Switzerland of Nepal" due to its stunning natural beauty, including rolling hills, deep valleys, and snow-capped mountains. Historically, Jiri served as the original gateway for treks to the Everest region before the construction of the Lukla airstrip.

Transportation Connections to Jiri:

• No direct airport connection: There is no direct connection to Jiri from nearby operational airports.
• From Kathmandu Airport (KTM): Travelers typically reach Jiri from Kathmandu by road. Options include a combination of taxi and bus services via Dhulikhel and Kalanki, with travel times often ranging from 5 to 6 hours. A direct drive from Kathmandu to Jiri can take approximately 2 hours and 49 minutes.
• Nearby Airports: While Janakpur (JKR) is the closest airport, there's no direct connection to Jiri, requiring transfers.

While Jiri Airport (VNJI (JIR)) is not operational for air travel, the town of Jiri continues to attract visitors seeking its picturesque landscapes, trekking opportunities, and local culture. Travelers planning to visit Jiri should focus on ground transportation options from other active airports, primarily Kathmandu.