Bangladesh is seeking direct air connectivity between Kathmandu and Cox’s Bazar to attract more Nepali tourists to its popular beach destination, as the country prepares to inaugurate Cox’s Bazar International Airport next month. The proposed route is expected to create new opportunities for tourism exchanges between Nepal and Bangladesh, while Nepal has also expressed interest in introducing flights between Dhaka and Pokhara to improve access to one of its major tourism destinations.
The proposals were discussed during a meeting between Bangladesh’s Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister M. Rashiduzzaman Millat and Nepal’s Ambassador to Bangladesh, Ghanshyam Bhandari, at the Bangladesh Secretariat in Dhaka on October 14, 2026. Both sides discussed strengthening bilateral relations, increasing tourist exchanges, improving air connectivity and exploring joint initiatives to promote tourism in the two neighbouring countries.
Bangladesh Eyes Direct Flights to Cox’s Bazar
During the meeting, Minister Millat said the planned inauguration of Cox’s Bazar International Airport would open new opportunities for Nepali tourists to visit the coastal destination directly. He expressed hope that Nepal-based Himalaya Airlines would consider operating direct flights between Kathmandu and Cox’s Bazar, making travel more convenient for visitors from Nepal.
Cox’s Bazar is one of Bangladesh’s best-known tourism destinations, particularly recognized for its extensive sandy beach along the Bay of Bengal. Improved air connectivity with Kathmandu could make the destination more accessible to Nepali travellers and encourage tourism businesses in both countries to explore new travel packages and promotional opportunities. However, the proposed route remains under discussion. No confirmed flight schedule, launch date or operational commitment from Himalaya Airlines has been announced. The introduction of direct services will depend on further decisions by the airline and the relevant aviation authorities.
Nepal Proposes Dhaka–Pokhara Air Connectivity
During the discussions, the Nepali side expressed interest in having Biman Bangladesh Airlines operate flights on the Dhaka–Pokhara route. The proposed connection could provide Bangladeshi travellers with more convenient access to Pokhara, a major tourism hub known for its Himalayan scenery, lakes, adventure activities and trekking opportunities. Direct connectivity between Dhaka and Pokhara could also create opportunities for tourism businesses to develop travel itineraries linking Bangladesh with Nepal’s mountain destinations.
Improved access may benefit visitors interested in sightseeing, trekking, paragliding and other tourism activities in and around Pokhara, while supporting greater movement between the two countries. The proposal reflects Nepal’s interest in expanding international air links beyond Kathmandu and improving access to destinations outside the capital. Nevertheless, Biman Bangladesh Airlines has not been confirmed as an operator for the route, and no launch date or flight frequency has been announced.
Nepal and Bangladesh Seek Stronger Tourism Cooperation
The meeting also focused on strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation in tourism and aviation. Both sides discussed increasing tourist exchanges, improving connectivity and exploring joint initiatives that could support the development of their respective tourism industries between Nepal and Bangladesh.
The proposed air links could create opportunities for travel agencies, tour operators, hotels and other tourism businesses to expand cross-border partnerships. Easier air access may also encourage more visitors to explore each country’s destinations, potentially supporting tourism spending and creating new business opportunities across the travel sector between Nepal and Bangladesh. .
Both sides expressed optimism about deepening cooperation and identifying additional areas of collaboration. If the proposed routes progress, they could strengthen regional air connectivity and provide travellers with more options for visiting Nepal and Bangladesh.
For now, the discussions represent an initial step towards potential new air services rather than a confirmed expansion of scheduled flights. Further developments will depend on airline decisions, regulatory arrangements and the practical requirements for launching the proposed routes between Nepal and Bangladesh. .
