i have never travelled via middle east or india and hope don't have to. having flown to ktm in april, i must say that the best and fastest way to nepal from mainland USA is on thai airways (does anyone disagree?), especially for those who can fly out of LAX. if you are in this area, then this route is a must. LAX-BKK-KTM in about 22 hrs total flight time and back in about 18 hrs flight time. imagine just one layover and transit time of 1-4 hrs each way. expect to pay a couple hundred $$ more (for the thai service) and we all know getting seats on thai might be difficult on BKK-KTM route. plan your trip well in advance & you will be rewarded. no visa required, no long transits and no odd hr landing/take off from ktm. definitely worth the price.