Using Aeroplan points to book flights from Canada to Nepal is not only possible but also a smart way to travel on a budget—if you know how the system works. While there are no direct flights between Canada and Nepal, Aeroplan’s extensive partnership network makes it easier to reach Kathmandu through various connecting routes.
This article will walk you through the step-by-step process of redeeming Aeroplan points for flights to Nepal and offer valuable tips to maximize your points and travel experience.
Booking Flights to Nepal with Aeroplan Points
1. Choose Air Canada or Partner Airlines
Aeroplan, Air Canada’s loyalty program, enables members to book award flights with Air Canada and over 45 partner airlines. These include Star Alliance members like Lufthansa, Swiss International Air Lines, and Austrian Airlines, all of which offer connecting flights to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.
While Air Canada doesn’t fly directly to Nepal, these partner airlines fill the gap, offering routes through hubs like Frankfurt, Zurich, or Vienna. You can explore more about Aeroplan’s partner network in this detailed guide.
2. Understand Route Availability
Since there are no non-stop flights from Canada to Nepal, expect to make at least one or two connections. Flights typically route through European or Asian cities before reaching Kathmandu.
Popular routes include:
- Toronto → Frankfurt → Delhi → Kathmandu
- Vancouver → Zurich → Doha → Kathmandu
Keep in mind that availability for award flights using points may be limited. For instance, Reddit users often recommend checking availability months in advance.
3. Booking Process Simplified
Here’s a simplified version of how to book your flight using Aeroplan points:
- Log In: Go to the Air Canada website and sign in to your Aeroplan account.
- Search with Points: Select the “Book with Points” option and input your departure city in Canada and your destination as “Kathmandu (KTM).”
- Filter Options: You can filter by class (economy, premium economy, business) and select flexible dates for more availability.
- Review & Confirm: Choose your preferred flight and confirm your booking. You’ll be prompted to pay any applicable taxes and surcharges in cash.
You can also cross-check prices with platforms like Skyscanner to compare point value with cash fares.
Points Requirement and Taxes
To travel from Canada to Nepal, Canadian citizens need a tourist visa, which can be obtained upon arrival at designated entry points or through the Embassy of Nepal in Ottawa. Regarding taxes, non-resident natural persons in Nepal are taxed at a flat rate of 25% on their taxable income, and there are specific rules for foreign permanent establishments and certain services.
The number of Aeroplan points required for a flight from Canada to Nepal varies depending on:
- Distance flown
- Class of service
- Airline partner
- Time of year
On average:
- Economy Class: ~60,000–80,000 points one-way
- Business Class: ~100,000–130,000 points one-way
For a breakdown of how many points your flight might cost, visit The Points Guy, which regularly updates award travel valuations and tips.
Taxes and fees can range from $50 to $300 CAD, depending on the airline and layover cities.
Pro Tips for Successful Booking
✔ Be Flexible with Dates
Flights with Aeroplan points are more accessible when you aren’t fixed to specific dates. Mid-week departures often offer better availability and lower fees.
✔ Check Partner Availability
Star Alliance airlines offer different availability than Air Canada. Check Booking.com’s flight engine to preview possible routing options even before logging into Aeroplan.
✔ Split Your Booking
If you’re having trouble finding a full route from Canada to Nepal, consider booking two separate segments—one to a major hub like Delhi or Doha, and the other to Kathmandu using another airline. This method can sometimes help you work around limited point availability.
You can learn more tricks like this in “Top Travel Hacks for Using Points in Asia” on The Informed Gazette.
Related Articles from The Informed Gazette
To get the most out of your travel planning, check out these related reads:
- ✈️ “Top 10 Flight Booking Sites for Canadians”
- 🌍 “Best Travel Credit Cards for Canadians in 2025”
- 💺 “Economy vs. Business Class on Long-Haul Flights”
Each of these articles provides expert-level insights into travel savings and maximizing value with loyalty programs.
Final Thoughts
Using Aeroplan points to book flights from Canada to Nepal is a powerful way to experience the beauty of the Himalayas while maximizing your travel rewards. While it may take some research and flexibility, the savings can be substantial. With Air Canada’s expanding partnership network and a bit of planning, you can land a rewarding trip without emptying your wallet.
So whether you’re a backpacker heading to the Annapurna Circuit or a business traveler connecting in Europe, Aeroplan gives you the tools to make it happen.
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