Jumla, NP 🇳🇵 Small Airport Scheduled Service
ICAO
VNJL
IATA
JUM
Elevation
7700 ft
Region
NP-P6
Local Time
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Loading...GPS Code: VNJL
Local Code: Not available
Location: 29.2742° N, 82.193298° E
Continent: Asia
Type: Small Airport
Jumla Airport (IATA: JUM, ICAO: VNJL) is a vital domestic airport situated in the town of Khalanga, the administrative headquarters of the Jumla district in Nepal's Karnali Province. It serves as a critical transportation hub, providing an essential lifeline for residents, cargo, and government services in this remote, mountainous region. For travelers, it is the primary air gateway for treks to the scenic Rara National Park and other destinations in western Nepal, significantly reducing what would otherwise be a multi-day journey by road and trail. The airport's high-altitude location and challenging terrain make it a crucial piece of regional infrastructure.
Opened on October 18, 1974, Jumla Airport has a long history of connecting one of Nepal's most isolated areas with the rest of the country. Its single asphalt runway, situated at an elevation of approximately 2,347 meters (7,700 feet), is designed for Short Take-Off and Landing (STOL) aircraft. The airport is located directly within the main town of Khalanga, making it exceptionally accessible. Most hotels and administrative offices are within a short walking distance, and local taxis or jeeps are readily available for transport to surrounding areas.
Operations at Jumla Airport are exclusively domestic. Flights are primarily short-haul routes connecting Jumla with Nepalgunj (KEP) and occasionally Surkhet (SKH). Airlines such as Tara Air, Summit Air, and the national carrier Nepal Airlines operate these routes using STOL aircraft like the DHC-6 Twin Otter and Dornier 228, which are suited for the region's demanding conditions. Flight schedules are heavily dependent on weather, with most flights scheduled for the early morning to avoid afternoon winds and cloud cover. Consequently, delays and cancellations are common.
The airport's facilities are basic, reflecting its small size and operational focus. It features a single small terminal building with check-in counters, a security checkpoint, and a modest waiting area for passengers. There are no lounges, restaurants, or extensive retail shops within the terminal; travelers should plan to bring their own snacks and water. The amenities are functional and sufficient for the modest volume of passenger traffic the airport handles.
For those traveling through Jumla Airport, it is advisable to confirm flight status with the airline one day prior to departure. Given the high probability of weather-related disruptions, building flexible buffer days into any itinerary is highly recommended. Baggage allowances are strictly enforced and are typically limited to a total of 10-15 kilograms, including both checked and carry-on luggage. Upon arrival, travelers can easily walk or hire a local taxi to reach their accommodation in Khalanga.
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Recent traveler information regarding Jumla Airport (VNJL (JUM)) indicates a mixed but generally forward-looking sentiment, driven by ongoing expansion efforts to improve infrastructure. While direct, detailed traveler reviews are limited, the airport is recognized as a vital lifeline for the remote Karnali region, serving both local trade and tourism.
Jumla Airport remains a critically important gateway for its region, with significant government investment aimed at modernization and expansion. While current facilities may be basic and occasional disruptions occur, the ongoing development promises a much-improved traveler experience in the coming years.
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| Destination | IATA | City | Aircraft Type | Airline | Details | Route Map |
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| Airline | Routes | Flights | Destinations | Last Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Nepal Airlines
RNA
/ RA
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1 | 9 | 1 | Jan 19, 2026 |
| Designation | Length | Width | Surface | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
09/27 |
2165 ft | 82 ft | ASP | Active |
| Type | Description | Frequency |
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Private jeeps and cars function as the primary taxi service. They are typically available outside the terminal when flights arrive. Fares are not metered, so it is essential to negotiate and agree on a price with the driver before starting your journey to Jumla Bazaar or nearby destinations.
Formal car rental agencies (like Hertz or Avis) do not operate at Jumla Airport. However, it is possible to arrange for a private vehicle hire, usually a jeep with a driver, for day trips or longer journeys. This can be organized through local hotels or by negotiating directly with drivers at the airport.
There are no scheduled public bus services directly from the airport terminal. The nearest options for public transport would be shared local jeeps that run on routes connecting to Jumla Bazaar and surrounding villages. These are a very economical option but may not have a fixed schedule and can be crowded.