Lukla Flights Alternatives

Lukla Flights 

These days, Lukla flights are operated from two destinations: Kathmandu and Ramechhap(Manthali). In off seasons ( Winter and Summer), the Lukla flights are operated directly from Kathmandu Airport and in peak seasons( Autumn and Spring), the Lukla flights are operated from Ramechhap after 4-5 hours drive from Kathmandu to Manthali Airport. Let’s see details of Lukla flights from Kathmandu and Lukla flights from Manthali ( Ramechhap).

Lukla Flights from Kathmandu 

Lukla flights from Kathmandu run mainly during the off-season or in special conditions. The distance of flying is 138 km, and it takes about 30–35 minutes. Only small aircraft, such as Twin Otters and Dornier planes, fly to this airport because of the short runway length of 527 meters. These flights are operated by Tara Air, Summit Air, and Sita Air.

However, these days due to heavy air traffic in Tribhuvan International Airport, most of the flights are being rerouted from Ramechhap (Manthali) during peak seasons (March–May and September–November). The direct Kathmandu-Lukla flights are very prone to frequent delays and cancellations because of unpredictable mountain weather. The cost is around $180–$220 one way for foreign travelers.

Read Our Blog Posts Related to Everest Base Camp Trek 14 days:

1. Everest Base Camp Trek 14 Days Itinerary

2. Laundry and Hot Shower in Everest Base Camp Trek

3. Toilet Facilities in Everest Base Camp Trek

4. 10 Best Tips for Everest Base Camp Trek

5. Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour with Landing Cost

6. Everest Base Camp Short Trek Cost 

7. Everest Base Camp Trek Itinerary 

8. 30 Everest Base Camp Trek FAQs Replied

9.Challenges on Everest Base Camp Trek

10. Top 20 Things to do in Everest Base Camp Trek

11. Trip to Everest Base Camp Trek: All You Require to Know

12. Commercial Helicopter Flight is banned in Everest region

13. Is Manaslu Circuit harder than the Everest Base Camp?

14. Everest Base Camp Trek in April

15. Kathmandu to Thamdanda Jeep Ride

Lukla Flights from Ramechhap (Manthali)

Most of flights to Lukla now depart from Manthali Airport in Ramechhap, some 4–5 hours of drive from Kathmandu. Flight from Ramechhap to Lukla takes 15–20 minutes. Tara Air, Summit Air, and Sita Air operate daily flights.

Because Manthali has fewer flights than Kathmandu, delays are less likely to happen. Still, early morning flights starting from 5:30 AM to 9:00 AM are scheduled, and travelers need to stay overnight in Ramechhap. The cost is almost the same as Kathmandu-Lukla flights.

Weather, Cancellations, and Crash Records

Lukla Airport is considered one of the most dangerous in the world because of rapid weather changes, strong crosswinds, and a very short runway on a steep incline. Flight cancellations and postponements are frequent due to low visibility.

Lukla has witnessed several crashes, especially in 2008, 2010, 2017, and 2019, due to bad weather or misjudgment by the pilots. Travelers should allow extra days and consider helicopter or jeep ride to and from Thamdanda/Sureke alternatives in case of cancellations.

Lukla Flight Alternatives: Finding Options of Lukla Flights Cancellations and Postponements 

Lukla is the gateway to the Everest region, and most trekkers depend on flights either from Kathmandu or Ramechhap to reach that tiny mountain airstrip. However, flights are often disrupted by weather conditions, causing delays or cancellations. Those who would wish to travel differently to and from Lukla have three options: trekking out via Phaplu or Salleri, taking a jeep from Surke or Thamdanda, and taking a helicopter. Each has its own merits and drawbacks depending on time, budget, and comfort. While trekking out allows you to experience more of the countryside, taking a jeep is a cheaper but bumpier alternative. Meanwhile, helicopters provide a faster yet more expensive escape. Below, we explore these three alternatives in depth, covering everything from duration and cost to distance, road and trail conditions and overall feasibility.

1. Walking Down to Phaplu/Salleri (3-4 Days)

Those with ample time and who would wish to avoid the uncertainties of flight can descend down to Phaplu or Salleri by trekking. This route takes approximately three to four days and follows the clasical trail that was used for Everest Base amp Trek and other trips in Everest region before Lukla Airport was built.

Route and Duration

The route from Lukla to Phaplu or Salleri follows the well-marked descending path through the villages of Surke, Paiya, Kharikhola, and Nunthala before finally reaching Phaplu or Salleri. The length of the route is 60-65 km, and the trek involves a moderate type of fitness level. If you have 3-4 days extra days to walk in lower Everest region following the classical Everest Base Camp Trekking Trail, you can go with this option as an alternative of Lukla Flights. You will have distinct experience of walking thorugh local Sherpa villages’ while trekking from Lukla to Phaplu or Salleri.

From Phaplu/Salleri, you can multiple options of transportations like flight to Kathmandu, jeep/car ride and bus ride. You can go with whatever option you find best for you. 

Cost and Accommodation

The cost of trekking down is way cheaper compared to flight. There are teahouses all over the way that offer accommodation, and these range in overnight rates from $5 to $20 per night. Meals are around $5 to $10 per dish, hence the total budget for the trek is around $100-$150. You’d better have Nepali currency to pay for your meal and accommodation on the trail. 

Trail Condition

The path is pretty okay; it is mainly downhill trekking with some easy ups. However, this may become quite muddy and slippery during heavy rainfall. The scenic decent then goes through forests, traditional Sherpa villages, and rivers. Make sure that the trail from Lukla to Salleri is okay to walk before you start walking from Lukla in case the flights are cancelled or postponed.

Carry very reliable backpack with light stuffs which are necessary for you. You need to carry it for at least 3-4 days.

Transportation from Phaplu/Salleri to Kathmandu:

Jeeps and buses ply daily from Phaplu or Salleri to Kathmandu. The journey takes 9-12 hours over 260 km. A jeep costs about $20-$30, while buses take about $15. The road conditions are partially tarred with some potholes.

2. Jeep Ride from Surke or Thamdanda to Kathmandu via Salleri (1-2 Days)

The other alternative option of Lukla flights is hiring a jeep from Surke or Thamdanda, which lies a couple of hours of trekking from Lukla. Thamdanda is little far from Lukla; it takes at least 4 hours. It is all the way down to Surke and just little up for Thamdanda.

The Route and Duration

From Lukla, trekkers can go downhill to Surke (3-4 hours) or Thamdanda (5-6 hours). Besides this, jeeps ply from these places to Salleri to Kathmandu, which takes around 12-15 hours in total.

The trail from Lukla to Surke or Thamdanda is frequently disturbed by light rainfall and mules carrying heavy loads on their backs. Be careful while trekking to Surke /Thamdanda from Lukla.

Cost and Availability

It cost from $50 to $70 per person in a jeep from Surke or Thamdanda to Kathmandu via Salleri. Prior bookings are recommended, especially during peak seasons of trekking.

Road Conditions

Thamdanda and Surke to Salleri is a gravel road, steep, and bumpy at places. The road improves after Salleri but is still winding and dusty at places. It gets really tiring but much cheaper than flying. 

You may get sacred to seeing the steep rocky roads at the lap of giant hills while driving from Thamdanda to Salleri and the condition of road gets better from Salleri to Kathmandu.

3. Helicopter Ride from Lukla to Kathmandu (45 Minutes)

For trekkers who want a quick and comfortable return from Lukla due to tight time schedule, a helicopter ride from Lukla to Kathmandu is the best alternative of Lukla flights.

Duration and Distance:

The helicopter ride from Lukla to Kathmandu takes about 45 minutes and covers a distance of approximately 140 km. It lands at domestic terminal of Tribhuvan International Airpot and you will drive back to hotel. 

Cost and Booking:

The fares of the helicopter vary according to demand. It generally ranges between $500 and $1000 per head. Private charters cost around $2500 to $3000. During peak seasons, advance booking is essential as the helicopter are busy doing Everest Base Camp Tour. Even the helicopter options ae not available in the peak trekking seasons ( Autumn and Spring ) as the alternative of Lukla flights cancellation and postponement to get Kathmandu from Lukla and to get Lukla from Kathmandu. At this case, you have to pay higher cost. Be ready for that as well.

Weather and Feasibility

Helicopters can fly in somewhat adverse conditions when airplanes can't, but extreme weather can still delay them. They are a way to see scenery and a thrilling experience, but at premium prices.

All these Lukla flight alternatives have their drawbacks and positives: trekking out is cheap and picturesque but time-consuming; jeep rides are cheap and considerably quicker on bad roads; helicopters offer a fast, lavish return that is highly expensive. 

Your choice depends on the budget, time constraints, and also personal preference.

The travels between different points in the Everest region and Kathmandu have various transportation methods, their costs, duration, and conditions vary. Here's a detailed breakdown:

How much does the jeep cost from Thamdanda to Kathmandu ? 

Thamdanda is the road point closest to Lukla. Travelers can find shared or private jeep services to Kathmandu. It can range from NPR 2,500 to 3,500 for shared jeeps, while private ones go between NPR 25,000 to 35,000, based on the company and your bargaining capability. This road covers about 358 kilometers in distance and can take about 16 to 17 hours from Phaplu (Salleri). Sometimes the roads get really bad in adverse weather conditions. One needs to check current road conditions before going there. 

How much is helicopter from Lukla to Kathmandu? 

Helicopter flights are much quicker than regular flights, mainly in bad weather conditions in Lukla . The cost of the shared helicopter flight from Lukla to Kathmandu ranges from about USD 500-1000 per person, depending on the number of passengers and the condition of the booking. Private charters can be hired at around USD 2,000 to 2,800 for five passengers. The helicopter flight is about 45 minutes, which allows quick access back to Kathmandu.

How much is bus from Salleri to Kathmandu?

A day-to-day bus service is available from Salleri to Kathmandu. It takes around 10-11 hours, and the bus leaves early in the morning. The cost of a ticket costs around NPR 1,500 per head. The distance is 260 kilometers, and most parts of the road are suitable for driving, but during monsoon seasons, it may be pretty bad. Buy your tickets in advance at the counter in Chabahil, Kathmandu if you are heading Salleri from Kathmandu and you can the ticket for bus in Salleri if you are returning from Salleri to Kathmandu.

How long is the walk from Lukla to Thamdanda?

The trek distance from Lukla to Thamdanda is about 13 km and takes approximately 4-5 hours of trekking, depending on your walking speed. It goes down around 500 meters to Surke and then further up to Thamdanda. The path is well-trod but steep at times, needing careful negotiation. The mules and the drizzle may disturb your walk from Lukla to Thamdanda.  The early start should give enough time for rest stops and contingencies.

How long is the walk from Lukla to Surke?

Descend from Lukla to Surke in about 1.5 hours. In all, one needs to descend about 500 meters. The path descends steeply via a forested route. This may require a lot of care as it will be slippery, especially if wet. The best trekking shoes or other related equipment will help make the trek smoother and safer.

How much is jeep from Surke to Kathmandu?

From Lukla, the walking track moves down to Surke through local villages and pine forest of Lower Khumbu region, from where jeeps are available to Kathmandu. The fare varies from 50 to 70 USD per head, and it takes around 17 to 18 hours for Kathmandu via Thamdanda and Salleri. Most of the jeep services depart early morning, and one should enquire about the booking in advance, especially in the season time. The road is rugged, and a traveler needs to get ready for having a long and bumpy drive.

If organizing transportation in the Everest region, one has to take into consideration the current weather, road status, and the availability of transport services. Booking in advance with local agencies will help facilitate a better trip.

What is the Alternative to Flying to Lukla?

The best alternative to flying to Lukla would be taking a road journey followed by a trek. You could go by bus or jeep from Kathmandu to Salleri and jeep to Thamdanda and then trek on to Lukla or directly Phakding, then, Monjo and Namche Bazaar. The ride by bus to Salleri (2,390m) takes about 8-10 hours from Kathmandu, after which you start the 3-4-day trek to Lukla at 2,860m. Alternatively, you can ride a Jeep to Thamdanda, which takes 12-14 hours from Kathmandu via Salleri and allows you to shorten the trek to only one day. 

Although this saves the stress of flights, it is a rough road and might be affected by weather conditions. The trek from Salleri follows the classic route to Everest via Phakding and Monjo that early expeditions used, and the acclimatization here is much easier. This is a good option for those who would like to experience the lower Solu region and would rather have a more immersive trekking experience en route to Lukla or to Phakding.

How to Reach Lukla Without Flying?

To reach Lukla without flying, one needs to take an overland drive from Kathmandu (1,400m) to Salleri (2,390m) or Thamdanda by bus or jeep, followed by a trek. Most travelers take the 8-10-hour ride by bus or jeep from Kathmandu to Salleri. From there, one will need 3-4 days to reach Lukla, going through villages like Phaplu and Nunthala. 

For those using Thamdanda from Kathmandu as their road endpoint, you need a longer jeep ride of 12-14 hours, while this cuts down the trek to only 5-6 hours. You will walk through Surke and walk up to Lukla. Also, you can directly walk to Phakding and Monjo without climbing to Lukla if you use Thamdanda Jeep ride from Kathmandu via Salleri. This is a nice trek from Salleri, as it goes through forests, rivers, and traditional Sherpa villages, which means that this can be one great way of acclimatization. Though the drive is long and bumpy, it's an alternative for those who would not want to go through the hassles of flying into Lukla's Tenzing-Hillary Airport, which is pretty unpredictable with its weather conditions.

Why Are There No Flights from Kathmandu to Lukla?

Kathmandu-Lukla flights are few and far between because of air traffic congestion at Tribhuvan International Airport; it is the only international airport in Nepal. In these two trekking seasons-March-May and September-November-all flights to Lukla have been shifted to Manthali Airport in Ramechhap with the aim of discouraging airspace congestion and consequently lessening delays. The Kathmandu domestic terminal has prioritized flights to other regions, and the Lukla weather conditions require flying during early morning hours. Due to heavy air traffic in Kathmandu, flights to Lukla are often greatly delayed or even cancelled. To help alleviate scheduling conflicts and avoid problems with international flights, CAAN required flights to go out of Manthali. This means an added drive from Kathmandu of 4-5 hours but allows for more reliable departures. During the off-season when there is less traffic in the air, flights from Kathmandu to Lukla may be available.

What kind of plane flies to Lukla?

Flights to Lukla use small, STOL (short take-off and landing) planes, mainly Twin Otter planes, variety DHC-6, and Dornier 228 planes. Such aircraft are suitable for Lukla's short runway (527m) and sloping (11.7% gradient) runway flanked by steep mountains at an elevation of 2,860m. The Twin Otter is in widespread use in Nepal, accommodates about 18-20 passengers, and enjoys a reputation for reliability in high-altitude mountain environments. The Dornier 228 is another popular aircraft for this route, also with a similar capacity and designed for short runways. Airlines such as Tara Air, Summit Air, and Sita Air operate such planes. Due to unpredictable weather, the flights usually take off very early in the morning to avoid strong winds and low visibility. That, with the flight considered high-risk and requiring pilots' experience with landings on tough mountain airports such as Tenzing-Hillary Airport, Lukla, takes precedence.

Further Road Extension in Everest Region:  Information

The local government of Khumbu is planning to extend the road further up in the Everest region, connecting Surke/Thamdanda to Chaurikharka within a couple of years. That means trekkers no longer have to spend big bucks for Lukla flights and helicopter rides to the Everest region; they will gain easy access to this region.

At the moment, Thamdanda is the closest road point to Everest for trekkers. The proposal is to push the road further to Chaurikharka, which would be approximately 10 km away and about 4-5 hours of walking time. In this case, trekkers will start directly from Chaurikharka as it would lead directly through trails to Everest Base Camp and Gokyo via Phakding, Monjo and Namche Bazaar among other routes. With the new road, therefore, comes more flexible and cheaper logistics for trekking to benefit both the tourist and locals. Once completed, it will ease the way to Everest, reducing reliance upon flights.

Lets hope that this new road extension will accomplish soon and the trekkers who are doing Everest Base Camp Trek don’t have to bear inconveniencies due to costly helicopter rides and unpredictable Lukla flights.