Cheap Flights from Kathmandu to Istanbul Starting at $174

Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu is Nepal’s primary international gateway and typically handles a mix of full-service carriers and regional airlines, with low-cost operators present on popular routes. Located about 6–8 km from central Thamel/Durbar Marg, the airport can be reached in roughly 20–45 minutes by taxi depending on traffic; metered taxis and ride-hailing services are common and fares are usually moderate for the distance, while private transfers and hotel shuttles offer fixed-rate convenience. As a compact, often-busy hub, KTM can be convenient for quick city access but may feel cramped during peak periods and can have limited amenities compared with larger international airports. Domestic terminals for flights to Pokhara, Lukla and other hill destinations are on-site and typically require earlier arrival for baggage and check-in procedures.

Istanbul is served primarily by two airports with distinct roles. Istanbul Airport (IST) is the city’s main international hub, handling most long-haul and flag-carrier flights and typically offering a wide range of full-service airlines; fares here can be mid-to-high depending on season and carrier. Located about 35–45 km northwest of the historic center, it’s reachable by taxi (35–60 minutes, fare varies), Havatas shuttle buses and planned metro connections (around 40–60 minutes, shuttle fares moderate). Pros: modern facilities, extensive international connections and good lounge/retail options; cons: distance from central districts and potentially longer transfer times during peak traffic. Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) operates mainly as a budget and regional gateway on the Asian side, often serving low-cost carriers and domestic flights with generally competitive fares. It lies roughly 35–45 km southeast of central Istanbul and can be reached by Havatas shuttle or local buses, private transfer and taxis (travel times commonly 45–90 minutes depending on traffic; shuttle fares are usually lower than taxis). Pros: generally cheaper fares and less crowded terminals for certain routes; cons: fewer direct long-haul connections and longer commutes from some European-side neighborhoods.

Fly nonstop from Kathmandu to Istanbul for the fastest, most convenient way to bridge the Himalayas and the Bosphorus — fewer hassles, no layovers, and more time to enjoy the city. While connecting options can sometimes be cheaper, a direct flight saves hours and offers a more comfortable, stress-free start to your Turkish adventure.

More than 8 airlines operate flights from Kathmandu to Istanbul, including Turkish Airlines, IndiGo, Royal Nepal Airlines, SpiceJet, Air India, Kuwait Airways, Bhutan Airlines, and Air Arabia. This is a popular route, so passengers can choose tickets based on budget and preferences. Ticket prices start from $174, and our service lets you instantly compare all options. The variety of offers simplifies planning: you can choose budget fares or more comfortable options with baggage included or extra services. We help you find the best deals so your trip is cost-efficient.

The cost of a one-way flight from Kathmandu to Istanbul ranges from $240 (November 2025) to $293 (April 2026). On average, the ticket price is about $271–$285.