 KIRAN PANDAY |
But it has a little-know secret: the upper deck where there is a spick and span restaurant with a view out to the tarmac and the mountains beyond. A visit there leaves you wondering why if the restaurant can be managed so well upstairs why the lower floor is such a dump. The answer: downstairs is run by the Government of Nepal and upstairs is run by the Oriental Hotels, which also operates Radisson Hotel, with its new Executive Lounge and Airport Restaurant.
With reporting time at TIA now moved forward to three hours before departure because of security, a traveller has plenty of time once he's checked in. Thank goodness, there is now the business lounge and the restaurant.
"Our objective is to provide quality services to our customers," says Iswori KC, manager of Radisson's airport services. "We wanted to fill a gap in the airport's facilities."
Before the lounge opened in early 2008, the only lounge at the airport was the one operated by Thai International. The 10,000 sq ft upper floor had been empty for about seven years. Passengers were forced to spend time on the uncomfortable plastic chairs in the chaotic departure area.
The restaurant and lounge is in partnership with 11 airlines including Jet Airways, Nepal Airlines and Etihad. The restaurant and lounge also has a membership option for frequent travellers. Passengers of other airlines are charged $44 to use the lounge and more airlines are being added.
The restaurant and the lounge have been stylishly designed with comforting mind. There is a great view, there is wi-fi and even a quiet room with reclining chairs.
"This place is very good for Kathmandu, although it compares to about an average with lounges in other international airports," say Ross Lyman, an Australian who has been working in Nepal. Adds Tad Fetting, a tourist from the US: "The service is great."
Paavan Mathema
