Kathmandu to Lukla and Ramechhap to Lukla Flight: Complete Guide
Eco Nepal Trekkers
Kathmandu to Lukla Flight Information: Overview
There are various ways to reach Lukla, among them one of the easiest and fastest ways to reach Lukla is by taking the domestic flight which operates from the Tribhuvan International Airport(TIA).
Different airlines operate regular flights to Lukla. However, in the peak seasons, the flight will be diverted to Ramechhap Airport to ease the heavy traffic during the peak seasons.
Let’s see in detail and understand everything about the Lukla flight.
Introduction about Lukla and Lukla Airport
Lukla is a small village located at an altitude of 2,800m and serves as a starting point of trekking for numerous trekkers. It is a popular village for the visitors. This small yet beautiful village provides lodging and food facilities for the trekkers.
Situated at an altitude of 9,337 ft / 2,846 m, Lukla Airport also belongs to the highest altitude airport in Nepal. Also famous in the world for the word dangerous airport it gives you an adventurous as well as thrilling vibe during Lukla flight experience.
The short runway, high altitude, and unpredictable weather at the airport add the challenge for the pilot. But worry not. Even though it is challenging the pilots here are well experienced to land you safely. The interesting fact is that more than 50 flights operate daily from this small airport.
Highlights: Kathmandu to Lukla Flight
- The short, 30-minute flight is known for its dramatic approach and landing at Lukla’s steep runway.
- Enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas, including Everest and surrounding peaks.
- The flight helps with acclimatization to high altitudes before starting treks like the Everest Base Camp trek.
- Upon landing at Lukla Airport, you’ll get your first glimpse of Everest, along with Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and other snow-capped peaks.
Kathmandu to Lukla Flight Duration and Cost
The flight from Kathmandu to Lukla usually takes about 35 minutes. It is a short and quick journey that takes you to the beautiful Khumbu Region. For international travelers, the cost of a Lukla flight is usually around $217. But remember that the price might change depending on the airline you choose, season, and availability.
Why do you need to Book your Lukla flight in advance?
We recommend you book Kathmandu to Lukla flight in advance in the peak season (March to May and September to November) because the seats fill quickly in this season. You can purchase the Lukla ticket from the website or through the local travel agency as well.
Lukla flight cost in the peak season remains high so it is wise to book the ticket in advance. Also, make sure to check if there is any discount in the trekking package when booking in advance.
Weather Considerations: Lukla To Lukla Flight
Due to Lukla’s location, the weather conditions are unpredictable which can often lead to flight delays or cancellations due to low visibility, wind, or rain. Therefore travellers must be flexible on their travel plans. Adding an extra day to the trekking itinerary helps to accommodate potential flight rescheduling.
Travel Tips: Kathmandu To Lukla Flight
Altitude Considerations
Lukla is located at a high altitude and there are chances of altitude sickness( Acute Mountain Sickness ). Therefore we advise you to take acclimatization seriously and start your trek gradually and stay hydrated all the time.
Insurance
Having travel insurance that covers flight cancellations and other risks and medical emergencies is a must while heading to the remote part of the Everest Region.
Stay Connected
Even though the connectivity is limited in the mountain regions we suggest you purchase the local sim(Nell or NTC) for mobile internet connection. It will help you to connect with your friends and family and inform them about your status and itinerary including returning dates.
Local Currency
The local currency is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR), and while there are some ATMs in the region, it is advisable to carry sufficient cash for purchases, especially in remote areas.
Ramechhap to Lukla Flight Information
When planning a trek in Nepal’s highlands, particularly in the Everest region, you’ll probably find that flying to Lukla from Ramechhap is one of the simplest options.
As fascinating as the historical and scenic flights between the two destinations can be, especially given the rich cultural context, they also contribute to our understanding of general aviation travel in the following ways. Here’s everything you need to know about flights from Ramechhap to Lukla.
Highlights of Ramechhap
- Enjoy beautiful hills, terraced fields, and serene rivers
- Visit this culturally significant Chandeshwori Temple dedicated to the goddess Chandeshwori
- Experience the traditional lifestyle and warm hospitality of local communities.
Understanding the Route: Alternative Flight from Kathmandu to Lukla Airport
Ramechhap is a relatively new place to reach for tourists who are planning to trek to the Khumbu region since it is closer to this area than Lukla and situated approximately 130 km east of Kathmandu. Tenzing-Hillary Airport in Lukla, or Lukla Airport, is widely recognized as one of the most dangerous field airports due to the short distance between the strip and the surrounding Himalayan Mountains.
There is no guarantee that you will be having the regular flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. During the heavy traffic in peak season and flight cancellations due to weather, you need to reach the Manthali airport first. Then from the Manthali airport, you can take a flight to Lukla Airport.
Flight Details: Ramechhap to Lukla Airport
Flight Duration
Flying distance from Ramechhap to Lukla normally covers about 15-20 minutes of flying time. However, the duration can be longer if the weather conditions are poor, together with the flow of air traffic.
Airlines
Some of these airlines include Tara Air, Yeti Airlines, and other airline companies that fly between Ramechhap and Lukla. It is recommended to review the Ramechhap to lukla flight schedule because it may vary due to season and weather conditions.
Frequency
There is always a flight several times a day especially when the season for trekking is spring and autumn. It is advised to book Ramechhap to lukla flight in advance because, during the high tourist season, all flights tend to get occupied.
Cost
It takes approximately $150-$200 to buy a Ramechhap to lukla one-way ticket depending on the flight and time it was booked. Paying extra for carrying more baggage is a possibility and hence querying more on the policy of the specific airline in use will be beneficial.
Preparing for Your Flight: Ramechha to Lukla Airport
Check the Weather
We have already mentioned that weather heavily influences Ramechhap to lukla flight in this area. Foreseeing is important because at times the flights experience a change of schedule because of unfavorable weather particularly in the monsoon or in the winter season.
Arrive Early
Ramechhap Airport does not experience heavy traffic as that of Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport but still getting to the airport should be done 1 hour before the plane is scheduled to depart.
Baggage Allowance
All domestic airlines have a limit on baggage weight. Ensure that you check your airline’s policy to avoid penalties or delays for Ramechhap to lukla flight.
Local Transport
The main way to reach Ramechhap, Manthali Airport is by road. There are various modes of transportation available to reach this airport. The road distance from Kathmandu to Manthali Airport is around 132 km (82 miles) and it takes 4-5 to reach by road. It’s advisable to leave early in the morning to ensure you arrive with plenty of time to catch your flight.
It will cost you 30$ to reach Manthali airport by tourist bus and if you hire a private vehicle it will cost you 200-300$. And the flight cost from the Ramechhap Manthali airport to Lukla airport is around 180$ one-way.
Worth reading: Kathmandu to Ramechhap Manthali Airport Via Bus, Jeep, Car Hiace
Popular Airline that operates Kathmandu TO Lukla Flight
- Simrik Airlines
- Goma Airlines
- Tara Airlines
Important Note
Baggage
Usually, you are allowed to carry the luggage limit of 10 kg and 5 kg hand carry. If your language weighs more than that you need to pay extra costs for the airlines. The extra weight is charged per kg and the cost varies according to the airlines. You can also keep your extra items in the hotels that you were staying in in Kathmandu or the office of Eco Nepal Trekkers.
Flight Cancellation and Delay
The weather in the Lukla and the high-altitude areas of the mountain region is unpredictable. The sunny weather can turn into dark and cloudy weather in a few minutes. For safety reasons, until the weather conditions are not safe to fly, the airlines will not operate the flight.
Due to these reasons, the chances of flight cancellation are higher for the Ktm-Lukla flight. We suggest you have a flight by seeing the weather conditions. Also, travel only during the best seasons (Spring & Autumn).
During the winter and the monsoon season, the weather becomes unfavourable and chances of flight cancellation are very high. Also if possible make spare days in case your flight is cancelled or delayed you will not have to worry much.
Note: The important thing is before travelling make sure to have insurance that covers flight cancellation and delay.
How to Book the Kathmandu to Lukla or Ramechhap to Lukla flight
If you are wondering how to book the Kathmandu to Lukla flight then don’t worry we are here to help you. We will assist in booking the flight according to your chosen date and place. For this, you need to send us the details on our WhatsApp or you can mail us on our website. Further, if you want to know the itinerary of the trekking destination or you wish to customize your trekking itinerary it is also possible. We are available 24/7 for your service.
Safety and Security
You may think about how safe is to fly in the Lukla airport. Flying into the world’s most dangerous airport might be scaring you. Remember that your safety and security are our priority. We will schedule your flight from the best airlines here. Also, Kathmandu to Lukla flight will operate until it is 100% safe to fly seeing the weather conditions.
Note: Kathmandu to Lukla flight is possible by luxury helicopter ride.
Best Tours and Trips from Lukla Airport
- Everest Base Camp Trek
- Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return
- Island Peak Climbing
- Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass
- Gokyo Valley Trek
- Everest 3 High Pass Trek
Check here the video of Plane Landing at Lukla Airport( Tenzing Hillary Airport)
Frequently Asked Question(FAQs)
How much does the Kathmandu to Lukla flight cost?
- For Nepali citizens Kathmandu to Lukla flight will cost you around NPR. 8000(one way)
- For Indian citizens Kathmandu to Lukla flight will cost around INR. 18,000(one way)
- For foreign citizens Kathmandu to Lukla flight it will cost you around USD 220(one way)
How much does the Ramechhap to Lukla flight cost?
- For Nepali citizens both ways it will cost you around NPR. 8000 (one way)
- For Indian citizens both ways it will cost around INR. 18,000(one way)
- For foreign citizens, for both ways, it will cost you around USD 220(one way)
When is the best time to book the Kathmandu to Lukla flight?
The best time to book the Lukla flight is during the month of spring and the autumn seasons.
What are the chances of Kathmandu to Lukla flight cancellation?
Yes, if the weather is not suitable for flying then the airline will not operate the flight. During the bad weather conditions and in the month of winter and monsoon season the rate of flight cancellation is quite high.
What are the alternative ways if Kathmandu to Lukla flight is canceled?
The alternative way to reach Lukla if the flight is canceled is to rent a private vehicle and drive to Jiri/Salleri. Then start your trek from there to reach Lukla. It takes 3 days to reach Salleri.
Is there no flight from Kathmandu to Lukla During the Peak Seasons?
Yes, the civil aviation of Nepal has diverted the kathmandu to lukla flight in Ramechhap Manthali Airport during the peak season. You need to reach the Manthali airport and have a flight to Lukla. Peak seasons mean Apr 1st – May 30th and October 1st – November 30th.
Final Say
There are multiple options available to reach the Lukla airport which is the main gateway for trekking/climbing in the Everest region. However, the easiest and fastest way to reach the airport is by domestic flight which operates from the Tribhuvan International Airport(TIA).
The cost of the Lukla flight depends upon the seasons and availability that you prefer to choose while visiting Nepal. For your preferred date and the associated costs, please send us an email to check availability. We will respond to you with information regarding availability as well as the exact cost for your chosen date