Simara Airport

Overview

Simara Airport is a domestic airport serving the Gadhimai municipality and the wider Bara District in southern Nepal. It plays a vital role in connecting the fertile plains of the Terai region with Kathmandu, offering an alternative to long road journeys. The airport handles short-haul flights operated by domestic airlines using small propeller aircraft, primarily linking the area to the capital. For travellers heading to or from the central and eastern Terai, Simara provides a convenient access point, especially for those visiting towns like Birgunj, Kalaiya, or the religious sites around Gadhimai. The airport is small but functional, catering to a steady flow of passengers who value time savings over ground transport.

Location & Access

Simara Airport is situated in the Gadhimai municipality, approximately 20 kilometres northeast of Birgunj – a major commercial city on the Nepal-India border. The airport lies close to the East-West Highway (Mahendra Highway), the main artery through the Terai, making it accessible by road from both directions. Travellers from Kathmandu can fly directly to Simara in under an hour, while those arriving by road can use the airport's free parking facilities. The nearest major city is Birgunj, which also has a border crossing into Raxaul, India. The airport's location in the flat plains means driving approaches are straightforward, with well-signed routes from the highway. Taxis and local buses are available from Simara town and nearby centres, though services can be infrequent; arranging a pickup in advance is advisable for a smoother experience.

Facilities

Simara Airport offers a range of facilities designed to make the journey comfortable and accessible. For passengers with mobility needs, the airport provides a wheelchair-accessible car park, entrance, seating, and toilets. An assistive hearing loop is available for those with hearing impairments. The terminal includes regular and gender-neutral toilets, plus a changing table for families travelling with infants. Baggage storage is on hand for those wishing to explore the area without their luggage. Parking is entirely free, with options including a multi-storey car park, a dedicated parking lot, and free street parking nearby. The airport also has on-site services, though detailed information on cafés or shops is not specified – travellers should plan accordingly, especially for longer waits. The facilities are maintained to standard, and the compact size of the terminal means everything is within easy reach.

About the Region

Simara Airport is the gateway to the Terai region of Nepal, a flat, fertile belt that stretches across the southern part of the country. The area is characterised by agricultural landscapes – rice paddies, sugarcane fields, and mango groves – and a humid subtropical climate. The Bara District is home to the Gadhimai Temple, a Hindu shrine dedicated to the goddess Gadhimai, which draws pilgrims from Nepal and India, especially during the Gadhimai Mela (a festival held every five years). The region also serves as a trade corridor due to its proximity to the Indian border at Birgunj, a major customs point. Visitors often travel here for business, religious tourism, or to break a journey between Kathmandu and India. The flat terrain makes cycling and walking popular in rural areas, while the nearby Chitwan National Park (about a two-hour drive) offers wildlife experiences. The airport’s location in a predominantly agricultural zone gives it a calm, unhurried atmosphere compared to busier urban hubs.

Practical Information

Simara Airport is not open every day – flight schedules are limited, and services may not operate on certain days or during adverse weather. It is advisable to check with your airline for specific operating days. The official website (http://simara.caanepal.gov.np/) provides updates, though it may not be fully current; contacting the airport directly by phone (+977 53-520210) is a reliable way to confirm flight times and facilities. The terminal operates during daylight hours, aligning with flight arrivals and departures. As a domestic airport, only Nepalese rupees are accepted for any on-site transactions, and ATMs are not confirmed within the terminal – visitors should bring sufficient cash. The free parking is a notable benefit, especially for those driving from nearby towns. For a smooth experience, arrive at least 45 minutes before a domestic flight and carry printed flight confirmations, as digital receipts may not always be accepted.