“Lukla flight, even hearing it gives goosebumps, is one of the most thrilling and dangerous flights in the world. The flight lands at the Tenzing-Hillary Airport at a height of 2,860 meters in Lukla village.“

Lukla is a small village located in the northern-east of Nepal in the Khumbu region. The village is the starting and ending point for all trekking and climbing activities in the Everest region.

Every year thousands of trekkers and climbers take flights to Lukla for Everest Base Camp (5,364m) and Mt. Everest Expedition (8,848m). Along with the well-preserved natural beauty, it has been a top destination for countless wanderlusts.

The flight and the trekking to EBC itself are challenging however, travelers are eager to risk it all for the beautiful adventure that awaits them. So in this blog, we are discussing in depth the Lukla flight cost, ticket, where to get them, and so on.

Getting Into The Lukla

There are two ways to reach the Lukla i.e. by ground transportation (jeep) via Salleri or taking a Lukla flight directly which is the most convenient means.

The jeep ride can take a couple of days to reach Lukla. Now, the transportation has reached Thamdanda which will take a whole day ride. On the remaining days, it takes a few hours of trekking to reach Lukla.

Lukla airport is 138km air distance from Kathmandu. It is a 30 mins scenic flight from the domestic airport of Kathmandu. The flight to Lukla offers stunning views of the Himalayas and provides a glimpse into the rugged terrain that lies ahead for trekkers, hikers, and climbers.

However, during the peak season, all the flights are done from Ramechhap airport also known as Manthali airport. Here is the flight schedule for when Lukla’s flight is done from either Kathmandu or Ramechhap:

Kathmandu to Lukla Flight

• June-September
• December-March

Ramechhap to Lukla Flight

• April-May
• October-November

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Why do the Lukla flights are done from Ramechhap during peak season?

The sole reason is due to the high air traffic in Kathmandu airport. As the Everest Base Camp trek is the most popular trek, there is a very high demand for flights to Lukla. The daily average number of trekkers going to and returning back from Lukla reaches somewhere around 400-600 during the peak season. Similarly, Kathmandu has only one runway which makes it difficult to run both international & domestic flights at the same time.

On the other hand, Ramechhap Domestic Airport is larger and has a longer runway, allowing aircraft to land and take off easily. This helps to accommodate the increased demand for flights during peak season and reduces the risk of flight delays and cancellations due to unfavorable weather conditions at Lukla airport.

How far is Ramechhap airport from Kathmandu?

Ramechhap airport is approximately 130km northeast of Kathmandu and is about a 4-6 hour drive. A road trip to the airport will be quite an exciting journey. You will have to drive through the popular B.P. Koirala highway to reach the airport.

The drive offers stunning landscape views, crossing a few bridges along with passing several small towns and villages.

Most likely you will have to wake up at 1 am and then start the drive to the Manthali airport from Kathmandu. In this manner, you will reach the airport early morning at 6 am so that you can catch your Lukla flight.

Ramechhap to Lukla Flight Time:

Lukla airport is approx. 74km air distance from Manthali airport and is a 20 mins scenic flight.

What is the cost of Lukla’s Flight Tickets?

The cost of a flight ticket to Lukla from Kathmandu or Ramechhap depends on various factors such as airlines, time of the year, and booking sources. Generally, on average it costs from around USD 190 to USD 200 for one way flight and USD 380 to USD 400 for two way.

Here is the complete cost breakdown from Kathmandu and Ramechhap airports.

From Kathmandu to Lukla airport

USD 190 per person (one way)

USD 380 per person (two-way)

For Indian and SAARC nationals

USD 160 per person | INR 13,000 per person (one way)

USD 320 per person | INR 26,000 per person (two-way)

From Ramechhap to Lukla airport

USD 160 per person (one way)

USD 320 per person (two-way)

Note: All these flight ticket costs are updated on the basis of average (approximately) prices.
Also, it is highly recommended to check the Lukla flights directly with the airlines or with your travel agents.

How to book Lukla’s Flight Tickets?

“You can book Lukla flight tickets directly with the airlines or with travel agencies, travel agents, or tour operators.“

If you are an independent trekker then you can visit the airline’s website or contact their customer services for direct booking. Or else, you can find various online agents providing/selling the Lukla tickets at the best deals and prices. However, during peak season, it will be very hard for independent trekkers to book tickets.

The best and more convenient way is to book your Everest Base Camp trekking with the local tour operator and they will arrange everything for you. Moreover, they can help you find the best flight options, assist with visas and permits, and provide advice on other aspects of your trip.

Documents Required to obtain Lukla’s Flight Ticket

For foreign citizens submission of their passport or its photocopy is a must

For Indian citizens, a passport or photocopy can be submitted

For Nepalese citizens government-issued documents like citizenship, passports, driving license, and trekking guide license.

When should I book the Lukla Flight?

The best way is to pre-book your Lukla flight ticket in advance. Because during the peak season, it is very difficult to get flight tickets.

There are numerous travel agencies, and they can make all the arrangements for you. If not, you can get in contact with Kathmandu’s airlines or other sources for booking flights.

If you are searching for one, feel free to get in touch with us.

Airlines that operate Lukla Flights

Only small passenger aircraft are operated in Lukla Airport due to the short runway. Airlines that operate Lukla flights are:

• Tara Air
• Summit Air
• Sita Air

Things to Consider

Baggage: All the airlines allow you to carry 10kg of luggage and 5kg of hand carry. For anything more than 10kg, the airlines will charge you an extra cost per kg.

Flight Cancellation and Delay: Lukla flights are canceled occasionally due to bad weather and aircraft technical issues. So, we recommend you have a spare day just in case. It is better to check the weather forecasts to reduce the chances of flight delays and cancellations.

Note:* Please, purchase travel insurance for the Everest Base Camp trek. This can provide financial protection in the event of flight cancellations, delays, or other issues that may arise during your trip.

Is the Lukla Flight Safe?

Lukla airport is considered the most challenging and dangerous airport in the world due to its geographic location and additionally unpredictable weather. The airport has a short runway: 527 m (1,729 ft) × 30 m (98 ft) with an 11.7% gradient at an elevation of 2,845m/9,334ft, which makes the aircraft land and take off easily.

There is always some level of risk involved in air travel but the safety record of the Lukla flight is generally good and a lot of people have already traveled to Lukla and it continues to date.

The airlines employ the best and most highly experienced pilots who are well-equipped to handle challenging conditions. The aircraft used on these flights are typically small, twin-engine aircraft, which are well-suited to the conditions at Lukla airport.

Conclusion

Hence, taking a flight to Lukla is the quickest and most convenient way to reach Lukla. However, it is important to book tickets in advance, especially during peak season, and to be aware of the risks associated with flying to Lukla airport. With the right preparation and by taking all necessary precautions, the flight to Lukla can be a safe and memorable experience.

Check out our “Things to do in Everest base Camp Trek” to know what you should not miss after reaching Everest Base Camp. Happy adventuring!