Nepal and China have added a new air connection with the launch of direct flights between Kathmandu and Shenzhen, one of China’s largest technology and business hubs. The service, operated by Himalayan Airlines, began on Friday and is expected to strengthen both tourism and commercial ties between the two countries.
The first inbound flight from Shenzhen landed in Kathmandu on Friday morning carrying 157 passengers. Most of them arrived as tourists planning to travel across Nepal.
Earlier, the inaugural outbound flight from Kathmandu departed with 98 passengers on board and reached Shenzhen successfully.
For Nepal’s tourism industry, the new route is being watched closely. While Chinese tourist arrivals have gradually recovered in recent years, tourism businesses have been seeking stronger air connectivity with major Chinese cities to attract a wider range of travelers beyond traditional group tours. The Shenzhen route is expected to open access to a market that includes entrepreneurs, technology professionals and higher-spending visitors.
Twice-Weekly Flights Scheduled
Himalayan Airlines said the Kathmandu–Shenzhen route will operate twice a week.
- Flights will depart Kathmandu on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
- Return flights from Shenzhen will operate on Wednesdays and Fridays.
The airline launched the service in coordination with Nepal Panda International Travel, targeting business travelers, entrepreneurs, professionals from the technology sector and Chinese citizens interested in Nepal’s natural and cultural attractions.
More Than a Tourism Route
Shenzhen, often described as China’s Silicon Valley, is one of the country’s leading centers for technology, innovation and international trade. Direct access to the city is expected to improve travel convenience for both tourists and business visitors.
Tourism entrepreneurs believe easier access from such a large urban market could help increase visitor numbers and create opportunities across hotels, travel agencies, transportation services and the broader tourism economy.
The new route is also being viewed as part of Nepal’s wider effort to expand international air connectivity and deepen economic engagement with China. Industry stakeholders expect the direct link to support not only tourism but also business exchanges and potential investment opportunities in the years ahead.
