Lukla Flight Diverted to Manthali Airport

Mount Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the most iconic treks in the world. The trek typically takes around two weeks to complete. It involves hiking through some of the world’s most breathtaking mountain scenery.

Lukla is also the starting point for the Everest Base Camp Trek. It is situated at an elevation of 2,860 meters. Lukla is known for its iconic Tenzing-Hillary Airport. This airport is considered one of the most dangerous airports in the world. However, despite its reputation, Lukla Airport remains a crucial trekking hub.

Flying to Lukla from Kathmandu is the most convenient option for trekkers. However, due to the traffic congestion at the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, Lukla flight diverted to Manthali Airport.

So, to catch a flight from Manthali Airport, you must travel to Manthali.

Manthali Airport is located in the Ramechhap district of Nepal. It is situated approximately 137 kilometers east of Kathmandu. The airport is situated on the bank of the Tamakoshi River at an altitude of 474 meters.

The airport was built in the early 1970s. It is a small airport with a single runway, which is about 500 meters in length.

There are several ways to reach Manthali Airport, including by private vehicle, bus, or shared jeep.

• By Private Vehicle: The most convenient way to reach Manthali Airport is by private vehicle. You can hire a private car from Kathmandu. The journey takes 4-5 hours, and the road is mostly well-maintained.
• By Bus: You can also take a public bus from Kathmandu to Manthali. Buses depart from Koteshwor, Kalanki, and New Bus Park and take 6-7 hours. The tourist buses are available from Thamel and leave early in the morning.
• By Shared Jeep: You can take a shared jeep from Kathmandu to Manthali, and the journey takes around 4-5 hours. Shared jeeps are a bit more comfortable than buses and are a good option for those on a budget.

Manthali is a small town, so the food and accommodation options are limited. Most hotels and guesthouses in Manthali offer basic amenities such as clean and comfortable beds and free Wi-Fi.

In terms of food, Manthali has a few restaurants that serve local and continental dishes. Tourists can expect to find dishes such as Dal Bhat (lentil soup and rice), MOMO (steamed dumplings), and Chowmein (stir-fried noodles).

Flying to Lukla from Manthali Airport 

Flying from Manthali Airport to Lukla is an incredible experience. The flight takes you through the beautiful mountains and offers stunning landscape views. Here are some key highlights of the flight:

• The flight duration from Manthali Airport to Lukla is approximately 15-20 minutes. But the flight from Kathmandu to Lukla is around 30-35 minutes.
• The flight is an exciting experience as you soar through the narrow valleys.
• The flight offers stunning views of the Himalayan range.
• Tara Air, Summit Air, and Sita Air operate the flights regularly.
• The first flight departs early morning and the last in the afternoon.
• A flight from Manthali Airport (Ramechhap) to Lukla can range from around USD 200 per person.

Flights to Lukla from Ramechhap are subject to possible delays. So, it’s important to have a contingency plan in case of delays, such as extra days for your itinerary. Also, booking your flight in advance is recommended, especially during peak trekking season.

 Conclusion

This new arrangement has increased the travel time for trekkers, as they have to travel to Ramechhap first and then take a flight to Lukla. However, this arrangement will ensure that flights operate smoothly.