All passengers and trekkers, needs to be aware for those who are flying to Lukla Tenzing & Hillary Airport. The flight to Lukla might be shifted to another alternative airport at district of Ramechap Manthali Town Airport. As per the authorization and rules made by Nepal Civil Aviation Department, due to heavy air traffic in Kathmandu airport during the busy times of peak tourism seasons of spring and autumn / fall.
The reasons for shifting the flight operation, especially for Lukla Tenzing & Hillary Airport. So, we have come here offering Lukla flight with Manthali Ramechhap Transfer service. In this article , we are discussing about the different possible ways to reach Manthali for Lukla flight and the availability food and accommodation service in Manthali.
Kathmandu Domestic Airport shares the same runways with Tribhuvan International Airport. During the high tourist times, most domestic flights flies to Lukla for various adventures, trekking around Everest and Khumbu region.
The flight around mountainous region like Lukla, where weather should be clear and favorable for safe landing and take-off.
Due to air traffic at Kathmandu Airport with domestic and international flights, which effects the flight to and from Lukla. Can get delayed and cancellation sometimes, as the weather closes in.
For this good reasons the options for alternative airport is Manthali Town Airport, situated in the district of Ramechap. Within a driving distance of 4-5 hour to cover approx.132 km or 82 miles. One of the best options for busy flight to and from Lukla during the high peak trekking seasons. Which is in spring time of March to May and autumn / fall starts from September to November.
Types of Aircraft for Mountainous Region and Lukla
The Twin Otter, Dornier, L-410 Turbo-let, and Pilatus Turbo Porter are some of the aircraft flying to Lukla Airport. These smaller aircraft can carry 13 to 19 passengers at one time. Includes the main pilot and co-pilot with air hostess or steward, with rows of two and single seated.
Important before boarding the plane it allows limited weights as per the capacity, for each passenger on Lukla flight. The weight allowance is maximum of 20 kgs per passengers, including handbags or backpacks. To minimize the load capacity, best to wear all the heavy gear like down jackets and trekking boots.
Sharp items like pen-knife, nail cutters, scissors, matches and lighters not allowed to carry on person. Needs to carry it on the heavier baggage, including the trekking or walking poles.
How and When to reach Manthali Airport at Ramechhap?
To avoid the busy air traffic, Lukla flight is diverted to the next nearest airport at Manthali town of Ramechap district. Manthali Town Airport in Ramechap district located Nepal Mid-East, the drive leads on the new BP Highway.
An interesting drive through the old town of Dhulikhel and then heading southeast to reach Manthali town airport.
Best to reach Manthali Town at Ramechap, a day ahead for Lukla flight taking a group sharing comfortable coach. As well a private Jeep, Hiace coach or car for transport from Kathmandu city to Ramechap and Manthali Town.
On booking the treks and other adventures with your trekking agents in Kathmandu, the company will organize the transport. However, if you are a individual trekker, you can remember us to manage your Kathmandu to Manthali transfer.
How far is Lukla from Manthali?
The flight to Lukla is much shorter from Manthali airport about 20 to 25 minutes. If the flight gets rerouted to Manthali town airport, trekkers should be on time by late afternoon or evening time.
1) Kathmandu to Manthali drive and Overnight Stay in Manthali and Next day Flight
For the next early morning flight to Lukla, after spending an overnight in one the best lodge in Manthali town. On the return journey the flight may be diverted back to Manthali Town airport, and then drive to Kathmandu.
2) Kathmandu to Manthali drive and Same day fly to Lukla
The other way of reaching Manthali airport is if not spend overnight in Manthali. Is rising early morning before dawn by 1-2 a.m. for an early morning drive to Manthali airport on time for flights to Lukla.
Trekkers on booking for various adventures around Khumbu and Everest region should have flexible spare days. Before trek departures and on the way back from Lukla, having an extra day in Kathmandu.
The flight to Lukla completely depends upon the weather, even in the best seasons. The weather can be unpredictable, which leads to delay and cancellation for next day either in the beginning. As well at the end flying from Lukla Tenzing & Hillary Airport to Kathmandu or Manthali airport in Ramechap.
In case of cancellation, the passengers will be on backlist for the next available flight. For this reason one should have few days more. Before and after the trek, to avoid the circumstance of flight delay and cancellation.
Food and Accommodation in Manthali, Ramechhap
In Manthali, Ramechhap, there are few guesthouses where you can stay overnight and have meals as well. Nowadays, Manthali, Ramechhap has been a gateway to Lukla since the flight diversion to Manthali from Kathmandu due to heavy traffic in Kathmandu airport.
Even we can manage the hotel accommodation service to you if you want. The distance of the hotel is about 5 minutes walk from the airport.
The ultimate option to fly in and out of Lukla is Helicopter Service:
In case of long flight delay and cancellation which leads to postponement for the next days. Some trekkers having limited time for treks and in Nepal, the next option is taking a Helicopter service, either chartering for private groups, as well in sharing basis with the cost. The sharing basis for Helicopter flights is about US$ 500 per person one way. The extra cost besides the trip itinerary price on booking with your agents.
What’s included?
- One Way Flight Ticket
- Kathmandu to Ramechhap Transportation via Shared Vehicle
- Airport Transfer
FAQs
Duration: How long does the flight to Lukla take?
Basically, it takes around 30 minutes to reach Lukla from Kathmandu. However, if the flight departs from Ramechhap, it's only a 15-minute flight.
Alternative Departure: Why is the Lukla flight scheduled from Manthali, Ramechhap, rather than Kathmandu?
Tribhuvan International Airport is the only airport in Kathmandu for both domestic and international flights. During October and November, the airport faces high air traffic due to trekking and climbing seasons. Thus, the Lukla flights are scheduled from Manthali to manage air traffic effectively.
Safety: Is the Lukla flight from Manthali Ramechhap safe?
Yes, it's safe as the 15-minute flight from Ramechhap to Lukla allows pilots to accurately assess weather conditions.
Cost: How much does the Lukla flight cost?
Comparatively, the Lukla flight is more expensive than other domestic flights in Nepal. A major reason for this is that it's the starting point for the Everest Base Camp Trek.
Early Booking: Why should I book the Lukla flight in advance?
During peak trekking seasons, obtaining Lukla flight tickets can be challenging. Booking in advance is advisable to start your Everest adventure trip smoothly.
Ticket Date Change: Can I change my flight ticket date?
Yes, you can change the date, but you must inform us at least 2 days before the scheduled date.
Cancellation: What if the flight is canceled due to bad weather?
If the flight is canceled due to bad weather, it will be rescheduled for the next morning, or you can receive a full refund for your flight ticket.
Luggage Allowance: How much luggage can I bring on the flight?
Passengers are allowed up to 10 kg of luggage on the Lukla flight. Extra charges apply for luggage exceeding 10 kg, payable directly at the airport.
Cancellation Process: How do I cancel my Lukla flight?
To cancel your Lukla flight, send an email to our official email address, info@ktmluklaflight.com. We will respond within 24 hours of receiving your email.
Number of Flights: How many flights operate to Lukla in a day?
The number of daily flights to Lukla varies depending on the season and demand. During peak trekking seasons, there are typically 150 – 200 flights per day.
Weather Impact: Are Lukla flights affected by weather conditions?
Yes, Lukla flights are often influenced by weather conditions due to the challenging terrain and mountainous landscape. Flights may experience delays or cancellations in unfavorable weather.
Best Time to Fly: When is the best time of year to fly to Lukla?
The optimal times to fly to Lukla are during the peak trekking seasons of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is stable and skies are clear.
Operating Airport: Does Lukla flight normally operate from Manthali, Ramechap Airport?
The Lukla flight usually operates from Kathmandu, but during high peak tourism seasons like spring and autumn, flights are redirected to Manthali Airport in Ramechap due to high demand and air traffic. The flight resumes from Kathmandu during other seasons.
Accommodation in Manthali: What is the accommodation and food situation in Manthali Town?
Manthali has a few hotels and lodges of simple tourist standard, offering affordable and basic accommodations. Most accommodations have attached or shared bathrooms. The food quality varies based on the hotel or lodge class.
Travel to Manthali Airport: Can we reach Manthali Airport in the morning for the Lukla flight from Kathmandu?
Yes, it's possible, but you'd need to leave early, around 1-2 A.M., and either skip breakfast or eat during the drive. To ensure a timely arrival and avoid delays, it's better to reach Manthali Town the day before, preferably in the late afternoon or evening.
Guide and Porter: Can I hire a guide and porter from Lukla?
Certainly, you can hire a guide and porter from Lukla.