Shenzhen-Nepal direct flights on the horizon

Video by Lin Jianping

Traveling from Shenzhen to the Himalayan nation of Nepal is set to become significantly more convenient soon as plans for direct air links move forward.

Bharat Khanal, the Consul General of Nepal in Guangzhou, has revealed that discussions are underway to launch direct flights between Shenzhen and Nepal. The move comes as the South Asian nation ramps up efforts to attract travelers from South China’s most dynamic technology hub.

Bharat Khanal, consul general of Nepal in Guangzhou, gives a speech at the opening of a tourism promotion event in Shenzhen yesterday. Photos courtesy of the Consulate General of Nepal in Guangzhou

Speaking to Shenzhen Daily yesterday during a tourism promotion event themed “Nepal: Lifetime Experiences,” the diplomat extended a warm invitation to local travelers and offered practical advice for first-time visitors.

“Shenzhen is one of the most vibrant cities in South China,” he said. “It is an innovative city, very rich in science and technology. The young population and innovation here offer a unique advantage for mutual exchanges and cultural exchanges between Nepal and China.”

For Shenzhen travelers on a tight schedule, the consul general offered clear recommendations.

“If visitors have just five to seven days, I would suggest two things,” he said. “First, hiking and trekking. Nepal is the best hiking and trekking destination in the world. Hiking the Annapurna Circuit or visiting Everest Base Camp would be the first choice.”

Bharat Khanal, consul general of Nepal in Guangzhou, speaks to Shenzhen Daily reporters during the event yesterday. 

His second recommendation focused on cultural and spiritual enrichment: “Visit Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, and practice meditation and yoga there.”

For travelers worried about getting there, the consul general said there is already good connectivity via neighboring cities.

Currently, China Southern Airlines operates two daily flights from Guangzhou to Kathmandu, complemented by two weekly services from Nepal Airlines — totaling 16 flights per week from Guangzhou's Baiyun airport. From Hong Kong, Cathay Pacific provides daily service, supported by additional weekly flights from Nepal Airlines.

However, the prospect of a local connection remains the headline development for Shenzhen residents.

“We are planning to launch direct flights between Kathmandu and Shenzhen in the future,” the consul general said. “I have already talked to Shenzhen Airlines and Himalaya Airlines.”

Attendees communicate at a business matchmaking session at the event.

He also proposed the possibility of establishing a direct route between Shenzhen and Nepal’s Gautam Buddha International Airport as an alternative option.

When asked what message he wanted to send to potential travelers in Shenzhen, the consul general kept it simple and heartfelt.

“You are most welcome to Nepal,” he said. “Once you visit Nepal, you will want to return again and again. Nepal is a lifetime experience — nature, culture and adventure, all in one destination.”