Notice for domestic flights to and from Lukla
Note: Because of a heavy traffic jam at the International airport in Kathmandu and the necessity of several domestic flights to Lukla, flight operation was shifted to the nearest airport.
The Tribhuwan International Airport and the domestic Airport are partially the same in Kathmandu. Thus, it used to be heavy air traffic during international flights. The domestic flight schedule will often be interrupted by International flights.
The domestic flight to Lukla mostly departs early in the morning with small aircraft. The legendary Everest trek begins from Lukla, so most trekkers to the Everest region usually fly in and out from Lukla. Often, the higher volume of trekkers want to visit the Everest region. So, there should be several scheduled flights every day. Thus, Nepal aviation had decided to operate smooth flights from the nearest airport to Kathmandu during the main trekking and peak season. The nearest airport is in the countryside called Manthali Ramechhap, which needs approximately 4 hours of off-road driving.
The flights are effective from the beginning of October to the End of November in autumn and from March to mid-May in spring.
We recommend our clients move a day earlier from Kathmandu to nearby Manthali for the flight to Lukla. That will provide the perfect views of the countryside, also that will not make the rush and uncomfortable drive.
Most trekkers get driven in the middle of the night from Kathmandu to Manthali for the next day’s morning flight. There would be some discomfort, such as less sleep that night, if you do not arrive on time at the airport, the flight can be missed. You never know what's happening or going on the road in the countryside.
Road & vehicle facilities
The road connection is being extended close to Lukla. It is under construction, so the road is adventurous, bumpy, and Seasonal. The road from Kathmandu to Sallery is at least good for driving and takes about 12 hours, then at least 9 hours more to Surke. We must change the 4x4 vehicle from Salleri to Everest doorways or Everest doorways to Salleri or local vehicles. If the road is not damaged by rain, flood, or other problems, then you can easily get in and out to Surke, which is an hour away from Lukla Airport. Otherwise, passengers should walk a bit further away until the Jeep is available. If the flight is cancelled or you have enough time and want to experience the lower Everest region, then overland driving is another exciting option.
Walking Trails: The trail often goes through the dense rhododendron forest, ancient typical cultures villages, waterfalls, staircases, wilderness, ridges, several viewpoints, crosses several suspension bridges, wild bees, natural hot springs, zig-zags up and down, traditional Chautaras, and passes several river streams and pastures.
Walking hours per day: The itinerary is always eligible; every day, your trek starts after your breakfast. Take your time and enjoy your walk with the best views. Approximate walking hours will be 4-8 hours per day.
Landscape & temperature: There are amazing landscapes on this trek, you will pass several ancient Sherpa villages, which are completely decorated with Tibetan culture and tradition. Several passes with chortens, prayer flags, the Maane wall, the world’s highest mountains, Rivers, waterfalls, amazing suspension bridges, terraced compounding farming fields, viewpoints, Gombas and alpine contours.
The temperature will be favorable for this trek. During the day there will be Sun shining and evening will be warm heater in the dining room. One should not be worried about being too cold.
Accommodations and Food: Everywhere we can find very neat and clean local lodges and hotels with the best food. Select the food according to our choices on the Menu. The clean and comfortable hotel accommodations are available from the beginning to the end. They provide very nice hot showers. Comfortable rooms, either single or double, with attached bathrooms, are available everywhere on this trek.
Things to see: Tibeto Sherpa Culture traditions, mindblowing mountains, Yaks and Naks, Blue Sheeps, Tahrs, Dhanphe pheasant, Musk Dear, Famous Gombas with Yeti's skull, ancient Sherpa villages, Museum, ancient salt way.
Maximum altitude: 4500 Meters during hiking and 3900 Meters pass, then most of the time it is at a lower altitude.
Drinking water: Everywhere you can get fresh running water, but we recommend using some purifier tablets or filtered water for drinking, or you can buy mineral water or filtered water.
Altitude Sickness: You should not be worried about altitude sickness on this trek. However, the Mountain has its private discipline; you cannot turn the character of the mountain into your character. Follow the theory of going higher and sleeping at a lower altitude. Go slower, drink enough water, take enough acclimatization, and supply enough energy. No one should be worried about serious altitude sickness on this trek.