Highlights
Overview
We offer you a great deal on Kathmandu to Lukla Flight Ticket. Transport Hub Nepal is the Official organizer for bothway Kathmandu to Ramechhap transport and Ramechhap to Lukla Flight. Here are the information about Lukla Ticket as follows.
- Direct Flights Kathmandu to Lukla: December to March & May to August – 215 USD each way.
- From Ramechhap Airport Routes: April to May & September to November. We will provide you Kathmandu to Ramechhap airport Transport at 01:00 AM mid night and Morning Flight from Ramechhap to Lukla which is cost 195 USD each way.
Book your Lukla Flight from Here.
Kathmandu to Lukla & Lukla to Kathmandu Transport and Flight Ticket Information
Our Bus is Departure for Kathmandu to Ramechhap from Garden of Dream Thamel at 1:00 AM. The Bus will be reach at Ramechhap airport at 4:45 AM. The flight from Ramechhap to Lukla at 06:00 AM to 10:00 AM.
For Ramechhap to Kathmandu from B.N Restaurant at Ramechhap airport Gate. We will provide you a transport from Ramechhap to Kathmanud after you raeched in Ramechhap airport. Our bus and Jeep are leaving every 30 Min from Ramechhap airport.
Why Travel to Lukla with Transport Hub Nepal?
Traveling to Lukla can be straight forward or challenging, depending on the weather. We do everything possible to make the process smooth for our guests:
- We book your Lukla flight early to secure a spot on the first or second flight batch.
- All information provided is free of charge, and you can change your ticket dates with us without any additional fees.
- Transport Hub Nepal Have 24hrs Support Team on WhatsApp. You will receive very quick response from us with in a less than minutes.
- In case of delays, our guests have higher rebooking priority with airlines.
- Our team is on-site at the airport during flight delays to keep you informed and manage the situation efficiently.
For assistance and Booking at any time, feel free to call or WhatsApp on our dedicated support number.
+9779808295093 , +9779802345143 , +9779841054709 , +9779851272547
Gateway to Everest: Flights to Lukla from Ramechhap
Trekking in the Everest region offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world, and the journey itself begins with an adventurous flight. Almost every trek to Everest Base Camp and surrounding areas starts with a flight to the Tenzing-Hillary Airport in Lukla—a small, single-runway airport located in the high Himalayas. As the main gateway to Everest, Lukla serves as the key access point for trekkers and supplies alike.
Situated at 9,400 feet (2,860 meters), Lukla airport is a bustling hub year-round, handling both trekkers and equipment. Over the years, traffic has significantly increased, making it one of the busiest mountain airports in the world.
Lukla Village
Lukla, a charming Sherpa village situated at 2,800 meters (9,186 feet) above sea level, is the gateway to the Khumbu region and Mt. Everest. It has become a central hub for trekkers, offering a variety of lodges, shops, and facilities where trekking gear can be rented or purchased. The village serves as the starting point for those venturing into the Sagarmatha National Park and beyond.
To reach Lukla, the most popular option is by flight, traditionally from Kathmandu. However, from September 25, 2022, to December 30, 2022, direct flights from Kathmandu to Lukla were temporarily diverted to Ramechhap (Manthali Airport) since Kathmandu airport has a solitary runway. The solitary runway means that the airport can accommodate only a limited number of flights. Therefore, during the peak trekking seasons to Everest Base Camp, when thousands of passengers are competing for a flight to Lukla, managing such a high volume of travelers becomes nearly impossible.
Ramechhap is located 133 kilometers east of Kathmandu, requiring a four-hour drive to reach the airport. Flights from Ramechhap to Lukla take approximately 12 minutes and are less prone to cancellations compared to those from Kathmandu due to favorable weather conditions at Ramechhap.
For those planning the journey, flight tickets cost USD 175 per person one way, and the road transport from Kathmandu to Ramechhap is available for USD 25. Alternatively, private vehicles can be hired for more comfort.
This route adjustment ensures smoother logistics and helps travelers reach Lukla, despite Kathmandu’s air traffic congestion during this peak trekking period.
Lukla Airport Runway
Lukla Airport’s runway elicits a mix of admiration and apprehension from trekkers and aviation enthusiasts alike. At just 1,729 feet long, this runway poses significant challenges for pilots during takeoff and landing. Its unique location—nestled at the foot of a towering cliff wall—complicates approaches and departures even further.
The runway’s design creates distinct difficulties: one end is bordered by a steep wall, while the other drops sharply into the valley below. These topographical constraints, combined with the unpredictable weather conditions characteristic of the Himalayas, make Lukla Airport one of the most challenging airstrips in the world.
Despite these obstacles, Lukla’s runway serves as a vital lifeline for trekkers embarking on their Everest adventures. It provides essential access between Kathmandu and the breathtaking altitudes of the Everest region, ensuring that explorers can begin their journeys into one of the most stunning landscapes on the planet.
Landing in Lukla
Once you land in Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region, your adventure truly begins. Lukla is a small but bustling town, well-equipped to serve trekkers with a variety of services. It sits at an altitude of 2,860 meters, so it’s crucial to take some time to acclimatize before starting your trek. This will help reduce the risk of altitude sickness, which is a serious concern in the Himalayas.
While Lukla is often viewed as the starting point for treks, it’s worth exploring the town itself. Lukla has a vibrant local culture and offers beautiful mountain views. You can visit local shops, try Nepali cuisine at a restaurant, and enjoy the lively atmosphere before setting off on your journey.
Local Accommodations and Services
Lukla offers a wide range of accommodations, from basic teahouses to more comfortable lodges. Many lodges provide meals, with options ranging from local dishes to international cuisine. It’s wise to book accommodations ahead of time, especially during the busiest trekking seasons.
The town also has several services for trekkers. You can find shops where you can buy or rent last-minute trekking gear. For those needing to stay connected, there are a few internet cafes. Medical services, including a small hospital and pharmacy, are also available should you need any medical assistance before or during your trek.
Starting Your Trek
Once you’ve acclimatized, you’ll be ready to start your trek. The most famous route is the Everest Base Camp Trek, which typically takes about two weeks. Other great options include the Gokyo Lakes Trek and the Three Passes Trek, each offering stunning views, unique wildlife, and encounters with the local culture.
Whatever route you choose, it’s important to trek responsibly. Respect the environment, follow local customs, and leave no trace behind. Your journey into the Everest region may begin with your flight to Lukla, but the adventure continues as you explore one of the most remarkable trekking regions in the world.
Kathmandu to Lukla Flight Options:
To travel from Kathmandu to Lukla, there are two primary options: by plane (via Ramechhap) or by helicopter from Kathmandu. Here’s a breakdown of these options:
1. Ramechhap (Manthali) to Lukla by Plane
Duration: Approximately 12 minutes from Ramechhap to Lukla.
Flight Costs:
- Nepali citizens: Rs 6,280.
- Indian citizens: $160 USD.
- Foreign travelers: Approximately $217 USD.
Road Transport: The drive from Kathmandu to Ramechhap (133 km) takes around 4 hours and costs USD 30 per person for public transport. Private vehicles are available for a more comfortable option.
2. Kathmandu to Lukla by Helicopter
Duration: Approximately 1 hour direct from Kathmandu.
Cost:
- Private charter: US$ 2800 (for up to 5 people).
- Group joining cost: US$ 450 per person.
Helicopter flights are a reliable option for those looking to avoid delays or cancellations due to weather. It is also a more flexible and faster alternative compared to flights from Ramechhap.
Airlines Operating Flights to Lukla:
Several domestic airlines operate daily flights to Lukla, connecting trekkers to this iconic gateway to the Everest region. Notable carriers include Tara Airlines, Sita Airlines, and Summit Airlines.
Despite the inherent challenges of navigating risky flight routes and the demanding runway conditions at Lukla, these airlines have maintained impressive safety records. This reliability instills confidence among the thousands of trekkers who pass through Lukla each year. The regular flights between Kathmandu and Lukla are crucial for ensuring a smooth flow of adventurers eager to explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Everest region.
- Nepal Airlines
- Tara Air
- Sita Air
- Summit Air
Important Notes:
- Flight Delays: Flights to and from Lukla are frequently affected by weather conditions. It is essential to remain flexible with your travel plans and be prepared for potential delays.
- Booking: Due to high demand, especially during peak trekking seasons, it’s advisable to book flights at least 5-7 days in advance to secure your seat.
Both air travel options offer stunning views of the Himalayas, and during clear weather, travelers can catch glimpses of 18 of the highest peaks, including 4 that are over 8,000 meters.
The Flight Experience: Kathmandu to Lukla
The flight from Kathmandu to Lukla typically lasts between 30 to 45 minutes (or just 12 minutes from Ramechhap). During this short flight, you’ll witness firsthand why overland travel in Nepal can be so challenging—soaring over rugged mountain valleys and terraced landscapes that define Nepal’s stunning geography.
Is Flying to Lukla Safe?
Lukla airport is often dubbed the “most dangerous airport in the world,” but it’s important to keep things in perspective. During peak season, 20 to 30 flights land safely at Lukla each day, with over 30,000 trekkers flying in annually. Though it presents more risks than a typical commercial airport, Lukla remains relatively safe. The last passenger aircraft accident occurred in October 2008, and since then, stricter flight regulations and safety protocols have been put in place.
To prioritize your safety, our focus is on booking you on one of the earliest flights of the day. These morning flights tend to have more stable weather and better visibility. Once you book your trek and provide us with your passport details, we immediately secure your flight to ensure you have the best chance of getting on an early flight, reducing the risk of delays and ensuring your safety.
Planning for Potential Delays
Due to Lukla’s short runway and its precarious location at the edge of a cliff, flight scheduling can be unpredictable. Only small planes and helicopters can navigate the challenging conditions. The airport’s elevation and weather patterns make it vulnerable to sudden changes in visibility and flying conditions. Airlines will not hesitate to return to Kathmandu mid-flight if conditions become unsafe.
Flight delays are quite common, particularly during the monsoon season (late May to early September). If your flight is delayed, we will reschedule you for the next available departure. It’s impossible to predict how long a delay might last—it could be a few hours or even a few days. To prepare for these potential disruptions, we recommend adding extra days to your itinerary, especially at the end of your trip.
Recommended Buffer Days Based on the Season
- Sept. 10 to May 10: 2 extra days
- May 10 to June 1: 3 extra days
- Sept. 1 to Sept. 10: 3 extra days
- June 1 to June 15: 4 extra days
- Aug. 10 to Aug. 30: 4 extra days
These recommendations are based on our experience and will give you enough flexibility to deal with most weather delays.
Handling Luggage Delays
While rare, luggage delays can happen. Your bags may be transferred to a later flight or temporarily misplaced. Always carry essential items like valuables, medications, and any urgently needed items in your carry-on. Although luggage delays are beyond our control, we will do everything possible to ensure your gear reaches you on the trail.
Helicopter Options to Lukla
Helicopters have more flexibility than planes when it comes to flying in challenging weather conditions. If flights are delayed, you may have the option to switch to a helicopter. However, this is an expensive alternative, and availability is limited. If you choose to take a helicopter, we can assist with the arrangements and refund the cost of your plane ticket once you return to Kathmandu.
Cost of a Helicopter to Lukla
Helicopter flights range between $400 and $600 per person, depending on demand. Prices are highest when regular flights are grounded, and lowest on sunny days when conditions allow planes to fly normally. We advise checking both with our team in Kathmandu and the local offices in Lukla for the best rates.
Alternative Routes to Kathmandu
If your Lukla flight is canceled, there are a few overland options available:
- Trek from Jiri: This classic approach, used by Sir Edmund Hillary’s expedition, adds five days of rugged trekking through rural Nepal.
- Hike to Salleri: A two-day hike from Lukla to Salleri, where you can catch a jeep to Kathmandu (10 to 14 hours on rough roads).
- Helicopter to Phaplu: If no direct helicopters are available, you may be flown to Phaplu, from where we can arrange a jeep to Kathmandu.
- Helicopter to Surkhe: Surkhe is a village below Lukla with better visibility. You can hike for about an hour from Surkhe up to Lukla.
- Transport to Paiya by sahring Jeep: There are transport options from Ramechhap to Paiya via Phaplu, taking around 10 hours by road. From Paiya, it’s a one-day hike to Lukla.
Travel Insurance for Lukla Flight Delays
Many travel insurance policies cover “trip interruption” due to canceled or rescheduled flights. We can provide the necessary documentation to assist with insurance claims.
What Happens if My Flight is Canceled, Not Delayed?
Flight cancellations, especially in the Himalayan regions, are quite common during the monsoon season. If your flight to Lukla is canceled and you’re on a tight schedule, the quickest alternative is to opt for a helicopter ride. This allows you to stick to your planned itinerary. If you’re unable to secure a helicopter on the same day and need to fly the next day instead, your itinerary will be delayed by one day.
For those on a private trek, adjustments to the itinerary can be more flexible, allowing for changes based on personal preferences. However, if you’re part of a group trek, decisions about rescheduling need to be made collectively. If you’re delayed by bad weather for more than a day, the entire itinerary will shift by that many days, affecting the rest of your trip.
Plan for Potential Delays
Lukla flights are notorious for weather-related delays and cancellations. To avoid missing your international flight back home, it’s advisable to build in a buffer of a few extra days after your trek. If your return flight from Lukla to Kathmandu gets canceled and you’re short on time, you may need to adjust your international flight accordingly.
Alternative: Drive to Ramechhap Airport
In the event of persistent flight cancellations, an alternative is to drive to Ramechhap Airport, which offers more reliable flights to Lukla. The drive from Kathmandu to Ramechhap is about 130 km and takes around 5 hours. While this drive can be tiring—requiring you to start as early as 2 a.m.—it comes at no extra cost and is well worth the effort to avoid further delays.
If the early morning departure is too demanding, you can opt to travel to Ramechhap the day before, leaving Kathmandu around 2-3 p.m. and staying overnight at a local hotel near the airport. Although accommodations in Ramechhap are not as comfortable as in Kathmandu, this option gives you a head start for an early flight. The next morning, a short 30-minute drive will bring you to the airport to catch your flight to Lukla. Fortunately, flights from Ramechhap are less likely to be canceled compared to those from Kathmandu.
How Can Travelers Deal with Frequent Weather-Related Delays for Lukla Flights?
Booking early morning flights is a smart strategy, as weather conditions in the Himalayas tend to be more stable in the mornings. It’s also advisable to book well in advance and stay flexible with your schedule. In case of persistent delays, helicopters offer a reliable backup option, though they can be costly.
What Makes Lukla Airport Different from Other Airports?
Lukla Airport is renowned for being one of the most dangerous airports in the world due to its short runway, high altitude, and surrounding mountains. Flights are heavily dependent on weather conditions. Despite the challenges, experienced local pilots safely navigate thousands of flights each year.
Why Are Flights to Lukla Often Rerouted from Kathmandu to Ramechhap Airport?
During peak trekking seasons (April-May and October-November), flights to Lukla are rerouted from Kathmandu to Ramechhap Airport to manage heavy congestion at Kathmandu’s airport. Ramechhap is a smaller, less busy airport about a 4-5 hour drive from Kathmandu, which helps streamline operations and avoid delays.
Are Helicopters an Excellent Alternative to Flights to Reach Lukla?
Helicopters provide a great alternative, especially when weather disrupts regular flights. They can fly directly from Kathmandu, bypassing the need to transfer via Ramechhap. Although helicopter rides can be expensive, the cost can be reduced by sharing with other travelers.
What Are Some Popular Trekking Options from Lukla?
From Lukla, you can start trekking like the Everest Base Camp trek, the Gokyo Lakes trek, and the Three Passes trek. Each offers its own challenges and spectacular scenery, making Lukla the gateway to some of the most iconic adventures in the Everest region.