By Hiking Nepal Pvt. Ltd.
If you're planning the iconic Everest Base Camp trek or any adventure in the Khumbu region, there's one important detail you need to know: your flight to Lukla probably won’t be from Kathmandu. Instead, it’ll likely depart from a small airport in Ramechhap, a quiet town southeast of the capital. While this might sound like a curveball, it’s actually a manageable (and even scenic) part of the journey—once you know what to expect.
Since March 2024, all commercial flights to Lukla have been rerouted through Ramechhap due to ongoing air traffic congestion at Tribhuvan International Airport. This change affects all trekkers heading into the Everest region during the main trekking seasons, and it's expected to continue for the foreseeable future. Here’s everything you need to know about this shift, and how you can prepare for a smooth, stress-free start to your Himalayan adventure.
Why Are Flights Diverted to Ramechhap?
The shift from Kathmandu to Ramechhap isn’t new. It was first implemented in 2019 to solve an increasingly pressing problem: Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu was simply too busy. With international arrivals and departures packed into a single runway—and a growing number of trekkers heading to the mountains each season—the government and aviation authorities began diverting Lukla-bound flights to Ramechhap during peak trekking months (spring and autumn).
But there’s a silver lining: flying from Ramechhap actually increases the chances of your flight taking off. The flight time from Ramechhap to Lukla is significantly shorter—just around 12 minutes—compared to the 30–35 minutes from Kathmandu. That shorter window allows pilots to navigate more easily around the narrow weather openings typical in the Himalayas. So while the early morning drive to Ramechhap may seem like an inconvenience, it actually helps avoid frustrating delays later.
What to Expect When Flying from Ramechhap
Getting to Ramechhap is a journey in itself. Located about 140 kilometers from Kathmandu, it typically takes 4.5 to 5.5 hours to reach by road—assuming traffic conditions are normal. Because flights to Lukla operate early in the morning, most trekkers depart Kathmandu between 2:00 and 3:00 AM to make it on time. The road winds through rural hills, and while the ride can be bumpy, it’s often quiet at night and offers glimpses of countryside life as dawn breaks.
Ramechhap’s airport, officially known as Manthali Airport, is very basic. Don’t expect cafes or modern lounges—this is a functional facility where you’ll check in, wait, and board your short but spectacular flight to Lukla. There are few food stalls, minimal seating, and little infrastructure overall, so it’s wise to bring snacks, water, and an extra layer for the chilly morning air.
Once airborne, the flight is nothing short of breathtaking. The 12-minute hop to Lukla takes you through narrow mountain corridors and offers incredible views of Nepal’s middle hills and snow-capped giants in the distance. The success rate of flights from Ramechhap is considerably higher than Kathmandu’s, which means you're more likely to reach Lukla on time and start your trek as planned.
Should You Take a Helicopter Instead of flying from Ramechhap?
For trekkers short on time or patience—or those wanting to skip the midnight drive—helicopter flights offer an alternative. From Kathmandu, a one-way helicopter to Lukla costs around USD $600 per person. If you already have a fixed-wing flight booked, airlines typically offer a $150 refund, which brings your net cost to about $450.
The comfort and convenience of a helicopter flight can be tempting. You can depart from Kathmandu at a more reasonable hour and enjoy a panoramic flight through the Himalayas. Helicopters also tend to have more flexibility in marginal weather conditions, increasing your chance of flying even when regular flights are grounded.
However, it’s important to remember that helicopters are not always guaranteed. They often prioritise medical evacuations or high-priority logistics, which means your seat can be bumped at the last minute. Additionally, weather delays can affect helicopters just as much as planes. Still, for many trekkers, a one-way chopper—especially on the return from Lukla to Kathmandu—is a welcome luxury after a long trek.
What Happens If Flights Are Canceled?
Despite the improved odds from Ramechhap, weather in the Himalayas is unpredictable, and cancellations are always possible. If your flight from Ramechhap is grounded due to poor weather, you’ll have a few options.
The most straightforward solution is to wait until the next morning and try again. Basic lodging is available near the airport, and your tour operator (like us at Hiking Nepal) will help with rebooking. Alternatively, if weather conditions allow, we can arrange a helicopter flight—though this will come with the additional cost mentioned earlier.
If your original flight was from Kathmandu and it’s canceled—which is rare—then your flight will most likely be shifted to Ramechhap anyway, with similar backup options.
Departure Times and Road Logistics
You’ll typically leave Kathmandu around 2:00 or 3:00 AM, depending on traffic and your group’s size. Most treks, including ours, arrange private transportation or shared tourist vehicles to Ramechhap. This helps ensure punctuality and allows you to rest along the way.
If flights are canceled one day, those affected passengers receive priority the next morning. The airlines manage this, and rest assured, Hiking Nepal monitors all this closely and adjusts your itinerary as needed.
Will These Diversions Continue?
In short—yes. Until Kathmandu’s domestic terminal is upgraded or a dedicated trekking airport is built closer to the Himalayas, Ramechhap will remain the primary gateway to Lukla during busy seasons. The government has not announced any short-term changes, and airline schedules continue to favor this arrangement.
Final Tips for a Smooth Journey
A few practical tips can make a big difference:
- Pack light snacks and water for the road to Ramechhap, and don’t rely on food availability at the airport.
- Keep your warm layers handy, especially in early spring or late autumn—mornings in Ramechhap can be cold and damp.
- Stay flexible and patient. Flight delays in the mountains are common, and a calm mindset will make your trip much more enjoyable.
- Consider a helicopter for your return leg. Many trekkers opt to fly back to Kathmandu by chopper, especially if weather delays mount or they’re on tight schedules.
While the change in departure point adds an extra step to your Everest trek, it doesn’t have to be a headache. With the right planning—and a bit of adventure spirit—it becomes just another part of your Himalayan story. At Hiking Nepal, we take care of every detail from transportation to flight rebookings, so you can focus on the experience, not the logistics.
Have questions or need help arranging your Lukla flight or backup helicopter? We’re just a message away at +977 9802342080 or [email protected].
Let’s make your Everest trek unforgettable—from the very first takeoff.
