Kathmandu to Lukla flight

Lukla Airport
Trip Information
  • Duration1 Hours
  • DestinationNepal
  • Difficulty Level Easy
  • Max Altitude2828m/9279ft
  • ActivityFlight
  • Group Size+1
  • Trip StartKathmandu
  • Trip EndLukla
  • Best TimeMarch to May and Sept to Dec
Highlights
  • 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.
Going to Lukla by Plane | Kathmandu to Luka Airfare | Dangerous airport | Holiday Planner Nepal

Introduction: Kathmandu to Lukla Flight

For trekkers and passengers heading to Lukla, Holiday Tours Nepal offers a diverse range of flight options. We've partnered with all the major airlines operating the flight to Lukla, including Summit Air, Sita Air, and Tara Air. This ensures that both foreigners and Nepali citizens can find a flight that suits their needs, making the booking process a breeze.

Booking your Kathmandu to Lukla flight ticket package with Holiday Tours Nepal is a straightforward process. Provide us with your information and passport details, and we'll take care of the rest, ensuring a stress-free experience for all passengers.

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.

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

Kathmandu to Lukla flight cost
NationalityCost Action 
Foreigners (except Indians)228 $Book Now
Indian citizens 17700 NPRBook Now 
Nepali citizens 12000 NPRBook Now

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.

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.

How do we get back from Lukla to Kathmandu? Will anybody help us?

Trekkers can get back from Lukla to Kathmandu via a flight. We always advise all of our clients to get a way ticket. In the event of rescheduling the flight, a 10% charge will be applied. When the trekkers return to Lukla, our airport representatives will assist in confirming the flights and inform them of the flight schedule from Lukla to Kathmandu.

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.

Itinerary
Expand AllCollapse All
  • Holiday Tours Nepal will provide a designated time for the passengers to be ready.
  • Then, one hour before the flight, trekkers will go to the domestic airport
  • after entering the domestic airport, trekkers will go to the ticket counters, submit their passports and electronic tickets, and get their boarding pass
  • After taking the boarding pass, we went to security, checked our stuff, and entered the terminals or gates.
  • According to the gate or terminal, passengers and trekkers will fly to Lukla.

Note: We can arrange vehicle pick-up and drop services through a private vehicle, which will cost 40$, and the car can accompany a group of 3-4.

    Route Map

    Kathmandu to Lukla flight map
    Cost Details
    What's Included
    • Kathmandu to Lukla flight ticket.
    What's not Included
    • Airport pick up and drop service.($40 extra for airport pickup and drop)
    Availability
    Select a Departure Month
    SaturdayJun 28, 2025
    SaturdayJun 28, 2025
    StatusAvailable
    PriceUS$228
    SundayJun 29, 2025
    SundayJun 29, 2025
    StatusAvailable
    PriceUS$228
    MondayJun 30, 2025
    MondayJun 30, 2025
    StatusAvailable
    PriceUS$228

    Group Departure
    Book a spot on one of our groups, which run daily from February to mid-June and mid-September to December, accommodating up to 15 people. To ensure the safety and comfort of our guests, we do not operate during the monsoon season. Group discounts are available based on group size. Choose a date from the calendar to reserve your spot. If you have any confusion, please don't hesitate to contact us (call or email now for a private or group trip: [email protected] or mobile: +977 9818178630 (24 hours); WhatsApp and Viber) so we can assist you in managing your trip according to your interests.

    Private Trip
    Are you looking for a personalized Everest Base Camp trek? We organize privately guided journeys mainly designed to fit your tastes and interests. Please get in touch with us (call or email now for a private trip: [email protected], mobile: +977-9818178630 (24 hours); WhatsApp and Viber) so we can happily manage your trip according to your interests.

    Useful Information

    A step-by-step process for obtaining a visa after landing in Nepal, and what is the cost of a visa in 2025?

    • Follow the signs or the instructions of the personnel and proceed to the arrival hall first.
    • Fill out the arrival card that is provided at the immigration area or use the kiosk machine.
    • Staff and some signs will guide you through the process of filling out the form, paying the fees, and obtaining a visa.
    • After filling out the form, proceed to the dedicated counter to pay the visa fee.
    • Visa fees can be paid in dollars, euros, pounds, and Nepali rupees.
    • For 2025, an on-arrival visa is available, and the visa cost is USD 30 for a 15-day stay.
    • For 30 days, the visa fee is USD 50; for 90 days, the fee is USD 125.
    • After paying the fees, present your passport, visa application, arrival card, and payment receipt at the immigration counter.
    • After all this process, the immigration officer will issue the visa.
    • After obtaining your visa, you can exit the airport and meet our representatives, who will be waiting with a nameplate outside.
    • As you exit the airport and cross the road, you will meet our airport representative, who will escort you to the hotel. Afterward, we will meet and discuss the trip in detail.

    Why doesn’t Holiday Planner Nepal encourage joining groups or traveling with other travelers?

    What we believe in is when you book the trek solo or with the group you know the solo traveler or the group book it solo because you don’t want to join a group and want to enjoy the trek by yourself and the cost is the same so why to join a group and ruin the experience.

    Everyone has a different mentality, and this can lead to a mismatch in chemistry when joining a group, potentially resulting in a negative experience.

    What is the difference between joining a group, going solo, or with a group you know?

    Aspect

    Trekking solo

    Group you know

    Group of strangers

    Flexibility

    Set your own pace and schedule your trip freely

    Decisions are made by collaboration

    A preplanned itinerary should be followed.

    Comfort level

    Sometimes, one can feel lonely when the guides and porters are not there

    Familiar companions who offer physical and emotional support

    Requires getting adapted to new personalities and characters, which can be frustrating sometimes

    Safety

    Immediate help is available if guides and porters are around, but at night, it can be a problem.

    A trusted companion with you in the twin room can provide support

    Group leaders and members will provide safety.

    Cost

    Maybe higher compared tothe  group

    Shared cost reduces a bit of expenses

    Economical, as group discounts are provided in big groups

    Social interaction

    Limited unless meeting new people

    Familiar environment with the person and the travelers we know

    Opportunity to make new friend,s but sometimes characters may cause problems

    Planning

    Fully flexible, and the plan can be changed anytime

    Group planning and then a final decision

    Pre-arrange itineraries by the organizer

    Adaptability

    Full freedom to change plans

    Adjustments can be made with a member or the team

    Must stick to the group plans and schedule.

    Experience rated and provided to date

    Peaceful, freedom, and flexibility

    Quality time well spent with the people we know

    The outcome of unknown people and characters can be both good and bad.

    Kathmandu to Lukla flight FAQs

    • The flight ticket cost from Kathmandu to Lukla is 217 dollar per person for a one-way ticket; a two-way ticket will cost around 415–417 dollars in total.

    • There are a total 3 airlines operating the Lukla flight, and we cannot usually say which airline is better than which; there is not much difference in the type of place, the landing time, or in terms of service.

    • There are 3 airlines operating the Lukla flight. Summit Airlines has 2 planes, Sita Air has 2 planes, and Tara Air has 2 planes. In the current scenario, among these planes, 4 are always operating for Lukla, while some time the airlines take out one of their planes for Jomsom and Tumlingtar flights.

    • Yes, trekkers and travelers can fly from Kathmandu to Lukla at the beginning and end of the trekking season during March, May, September, and November. During the peak season, the flights operate from Ramechhap. The flight must be chartered from Kathmandu during the mid-season, for which 18 passengers are required.

    • Trekkers can check the flight ticket price by visiting our website for Lukla to Kathmandu, Kathmandu to Lukla, Ramechhap to Lukla, and Lukla to Ramechhap at www.holidaytoursnepal.com.

    • Yes, the flight ticket cost for Indians and foreigners is different as there is a discount in Nepal for SAARC countries, so comparatively, the cost for Indians is low when compared with foreigners.

    • The flight from Kathmandu to Lukla takes around 31 to 40 minutes in total, including takeoff and landing. It is a very short flight.

    • Tourists and travelers can check the live forecast of Lukla Airport at YouTube by watching Lukla live, and there we can see the condition of the weather in that forecast.

    • The cancellation depends on the wind, weather, and air traffic conditions. In this case, the flights are cancelled, or else it's very rare for the flights to get cancelled.

    • Lukla airport is not digitalized, but the airport is safe and has CCTV surveillance cameras for police officers, and even now they have added machines to check baggage and everything.

    • De-Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otters, L-410 Turbolets, Pilatus PC-6 Porters, and Dornier Do-228s—these types of 18-seater planes land at Lukla.

    • Lukla is known as the most dangerous airport in the world due to the wind, the 2846 m/9334 feet of elevation at which it is located, and the short run way, which is just 527m (1,729ft.) long and 20m (65ft.) wide with a 12-degree slope from north to south.

    • The elevation of Lukla airport is 2846 meters, which would be around 9334 feet above sea level.

    • The Lukla flight is an adventure that some travelers and passengers might feel is dangerous, but the elevation, the short plane, the hard wind, and a run that is less than a kilometer make us feel as though it is dangerous.

    • The chances of a survival rate are very high and are closer to 3 percent if the plane crashes after takeoff, but if the plane crashes at the airport, there is a chance of survival if you are really lucky.

    • During the Lukla flight, it’s a free sit, but trekkers can stick to the left side while going to Lukla for better aerial views and while returning on the right side of the plane to say the final goodbye to the mountains.

    • Yes, it’s an open seat; all the seats are first come, first served, so everyone has the option to sit in any seat that’s empty.

    • Trekkers and travelers can sit on the left side to get the best view while going to Lukla, and on the right side when returning from Lukla, that side is where the mountains and the vistas are located for a welcome and goodbye to the Himalayan range.

    • The runway of Lukla is around 527 meters; converting it into feet would be like 9334 feet, and the total math is (1,729 ft) × 30 m (98 ft) with an 11.7% gradient.

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