Kathmandu to Lukla flight

Highlights for Kathmandu to Lukla Flight

• Take a scenic flight to the gateway of the Everest region. The astonishing views can be seen from the left side of the plane as we fly to Lukla.
• As the plane takes off from Kathmandu, witness the change in the landscape as we fly from 1350 meters to 2864 meters.
• Witness the majestic Himalayas, including Dorje Lhakpa, Gauri Shankar, and other peaks, during the flight to Lukla.
• Experience landing at one of the most notorious airports in the world, situated at an altitude of 2864 meters (9,334 feet).
• Enjoy the walk through the town of Lukla and experience the Sherpa culture and the mountain culture after landing at the airport.

Kathmandu to Lukla flight details

• A valid document with a picture is required for all passengers.
• Flight time: 25-35 minutes
• Passengers must reach the airport one hour before the flight
• Baggage allowance: 15 kilograms (33 pounds)
• Main baggage must weigh no more than 10 kilograms (22 pounds).
• Hand carry must be 5 kilograms (11 pounds).
• Time to reach the airport: one hour before the flight.
• Flight frequency: Daily
• The total number of airlines operating the flight is 3, with each airline operating two planes.
• Passengers will be notified in the event of a flight delay or cancellation.
• A 100% refund will be provided if the flight is cancelled by the airline.
• Seventy-five percent of the refund will be provided if the passengers cancel the flight.

Kathmandu to Lukla flight ticket cost

Is Lukla considered one of the most dangerous airports in the world?

The airport at Lukla, named Tenzing-Hillary Airport, is regarded as one of the most dangerous airports in the world; however, safety standards have improved significantly since its construction 5–10 years ago. The runway of Lukla Airport has been reconstructed and stretched to 527 m (1,729 ft). The helicopter landing place has been relocated to the right side of the airport, previously situated on the right side of the Lukla Airport runway.

The Lukla airport is situated at an altitude of 2,846 meters (9,334 feet), which presents factors such as wind, weather conditions, high mountains, and hilly terrain, as well as a short runway, which is 527 meters long but still shorter than the typical airport runway. The landing takes place at the Tenzing-Hillary Airport, which is situated on a hill.

Lukla airport has had incidents in the past, for example, in 2008, 2010, and 2012. However, with the passage of time and advancements in technology, things are improving, and the pilots, operators, and staff are adapting to changing weather patterns. It's a lot safer now compared to how it was 5–10 years ago.

Some details about the Lukla airport

The Lukla airport was built under the supervision of Sir Edmund Hillary in 1964 A.D. The airport was initially planned to be built on flat farmland, but due to local rejection and a lack of support, it was relocated to its current site. Sir Edmund Hillary purchased the land for $2,650, and after acquiring it, the locals were brought in to work. The runway was not paved until 2001 A.D.

Locals say that they used to drink liquor and perform foot-stomping dances to make the runway's soil comfortable during landing. Finally, in 2008, the airport was renamed after the first climbers of Everest, Tenzing Norgay Sherpa and Sir Edmund Hillary, and it was then officially named Tenzing-Hillary Airport.

Why book a Lukla flight ticket with Holiday Tours Nepal?

Holiday Tours Nepal has been operating and providing Kathmandu to Lukla both-way tickets and helicopter flights from Kathmandu for a long time. Our years of service have enabled us to gain recognition and establish strong relationships with the airport staff and aircraft operators. Holiday Planner Nepal strives to provide the earliest possible ticket, as only six planes operate for the Lukla flight in 2024/2025, and each plane can carry a maximum of 16–18 passengers. In the event of rescheduling the flight, we try to provide the next earliest flight to Lukla possible. In the event of adverse weather conditions, Holiday Tours Nepal can arrange a helicopter flight to Lukla at the lowest possible cost.

Can the Lukla flight be rescheduled?

Our company can reschedule the flight, but notice must be provided at least 24-48 hours prior. After booking the flight, we can assist in communicating with the airline, request a change to the desired date, and provide alternative options when necessary, as per the clients' and trekkers' needs.

Note: - The Lukla flight can be rescheduled in case of need, but we cannot guarantee that after rescheduling we will get the next flight. We will try our best, but Lukla has just six airplanes operating, and a lot of tourists travel to Lukla, so we might get the second or sometimes the third or fourth flight.

Flights operating to Lukla can carry 16–18 passengers max.

A 10% charge applies to rescheduling the flight to Lukla. Sometimes, flights are booked from Kathmandu, and due to air traffic in Kathmandu at the time of rescheduling, we may need to book flights from Ramechhap. During the peak season, flights operate from Ramechhap, with a minimum of 1-2 flights departing from Kathmandu. These flights are also used to transport items such as petrol and airport staff.

How many days prior should the flight to Lukla be booked?

Kathmandu to Lukla and Lukla to Kathmandu flights must be booked at least 15–30 days before the travel date. There are a lot of tourists, and during the season, flights are usually stopped after 11–12, when the clouds appear. So the early flights, trekkers, and travelers get—that's the best. Providing the booking details 30 days in advance helps us get the first or second flight.

What services does Holiday Tours Nepal provide after booking a flight to Lukla?

The services provided by us after booking a flight to Kathmandu from Lukla are:

• We can help book accommodations for the whole trip.
• We can arrange a guide for the required trek with a knowledgeable local guide who is familiar with the area.
• We can obtain the permits for the Everest region trek, which need to be obtained before the trek.
• Trekkers who don't have trekking gear can rent it in Kathmandu, and Holiday Tours Nepal representatives will assist with obtaining all the necessary gear.
• In the event of an emergency, we can arrange air ambulances, helicopter rescues, and support for additional medications.
• Booking at the hotel in Kathmandu before and after the trek can be arranged by us.
• We can arrange transportation services to and from the airport, as well as during your stay in Kathmandu. We also operate a business named Vehicle for Travels, which provides vehicle rental services within Nepal.

Lukla airport is not fully developed compared to today's technology, so what should we do?

The Lukla airport is not fully developed with today's technology, which is evident in any modern airport. Some people might be surprised by the condition of Lukla Airport during the peak season. Local authority representatives and airport staff strive to ensure that passengers have a safe and on-time flight.

At Holiday Planner Nepal, we have airport staff who are natives of Lukla. They help ensure that our clients' flights are on time and make the flight as hassle-free as possible. Our representative at Lukla does the rescheduling and flight ticket confirmation.

Where is the Lukla airport located, and which places does it lead to?

Lukla Airport is located in the town of Lukla, and its official name is Tenzing-Hillary Airport. It lies in the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu municipality of Solukhumbu District in the Koshi Province of Nepal.

The airport is renowned for serving as the gateway to the Everest region and being the entry and exit point for over 90 percent of the treks that begin and end here. The Everest Base Camp trek, the Gokyo Valley trek, the Everest Three Passes trek, and various climbing activities, such as the Mera Peak climb and the Island Peak climb, as well as the Everest expedition, all begin in the same region. All the expeditions start from the Lukla airport, which serves more than 20–25 treks and expeditions, making it one of the most important airports in Nepal.

Things to know before flying to Lukla from Kathmandu

• In the morning, the wind usually comes from the northeast side and changes direction to the southwest during the daytime.
• During the monsoon, more than 50 percent of the flights get cancelled.
• The airport closes due to wind, usually after 10–11 p.m., because of the strong winds and the clouds that create crosswinds or tailwinds.
• Having the earliest flight is the best possible chance to fly.
• Sudden changes in weather and visibility can cause delays or cancellations of flights.
• Due to the short runway, the Nepalese Civil Aviation Authority sets high rules and standards for takeoff and landing at Lukla.
• Nepal police and Nepal Armed Police perform security checks manually at the airport.
• The airport is situated at an altitude of 2,845 m (9,334 feet).

What items can we carry during the flight from Kathmandu to Lukla?

Trekkers and travelers can carry their necessary travel documents, passports, visas, tickets, permits, identifications, clothes, and all the layers; trekking poles must be inside the duffel bag; sharp objects are not allowed; oxygen cans and lighters are not allowed; portable chargers and power banks are allowed in the main baggage; ATMs and cash are permitted; cameras and electronics are allowed; and permission is required for drones.

What is the weight limit during the Kathmandu to Lukla flight?

The weight limit for Lukla airport is 10 kg of main baggage and 5 kg of hand carry. If the weight is greater, an additional cost will be incurred. Sometimes, the plane may be carrying cargo that is essential to deliver to Lukla so that the extra weight may be dropped off.

Conclusion

Booking a Kathmandu to Lukla flight ticket is the most convenient and time-saving way to start your Himalayan adventure. With Holiday Tours Nepal, travelers can enjoy seamless flight arrangements, ensuring safety, comfort, and timely departures. Whether you are preparing for the Everest Base Camp Trek, Gokyo Lakes Trek, or other thrilling trekking adventures, securing your flight in advance reduces stress and maximizes your trekking experience. Our team provides expert guidance on flight schedules, weather considerations, and alternative options, making your journey from Kathmandu to Lukla smooth and memorable.

Start your journey with Holiday Tours Nepal today and take the first step toward an unforgettable Himalayan experience!