Himalayan AdventureManthali to Lukla Flight

Overview

The Manthali (Ramechhap) to Lukla flight is thrilling and picturesque. You fly through scenic terrain, green valleys, and snow-capped mountains.

The airport at Lukla is only a 30-minute flight from Manthali Airport. But Kathmandu to Manthali (Ramechhap Airport) is a 4-5-hour journey. Yet, it is the safest and quickest way of getting to Lukla.

One of the easiest way to get to the Everest region is to fly from Kathmandu to Lukla. However, the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu is congested due to the high demand for flights to Lukla. To alleviate this problem, the Nepal Aviation Authority shifted some flights to depart from Ramechhap airport.

Since the shift, Ramechhap airport has started operating 11 flights per day to and from Lukla. During the peak tourist season, bad weather conditions often affect flights from Kathmandu to Lukla. However, the flights from Ramechhap to Lukla are less likely to be affected by these issues, making it a more reliable option.

Key facts about Ramechhap Airport

 Ramechhap Airport (Manthali Airport) is a small domestic airport.

• It is located on the bank of the Tamakoshi River and close to the district headquarters of Manthali.
• The airport is at an altitude of 494 meters (1555 feet) and has a single runway.
• Ramechhap Airport is approximately 130 kilometers east of Kathmandu.
• The airport primarily serves small aircraft.

Key facts about Lukla Airport

• Lukla Airport (AKA Tenzing-Hillary Airport) is a small domestic airport located in the Solukhumbu district of Nepal.
• The airport is 2846 meters (9338 feet) and has a single runway.
• Lukla airport is one of the most dangerous airports in the world.
• The airport is the starting point for many treks in the Everest region.
• The weather at Lukla airport can be unpredictable, so flight delays and cancellations are always possible.
• The airport primarily serves small aircraft.

Manthali to Lukla Flight Services

The Manthali to Lukla flight is popular among trekkers visiting the Everest region of Nepal. Several airlines operate daily, including Tara Air, Summit Air, and Sita Air.

The airlines use small aircraft such as Dornier Do 228 or Twin Otter. The Manthali/Ramechhap to Lukla flight is a short and scenic journey. The flight duration is typically around 30 minutes.

The cost of flying from Ramechhap to Lukla varies based on nationality.

• Foreigners: US Dollar 200
• Indian citizens: INR 9,988
• Nepalese citizens: NPR 6,500

Manthali/Ramechhap to Lukla is a gorgeous and thrilling flight experience. The landing at Lukla Airport is the high point of the flight. This has a small runway and is situated on a steep hillside.

In-flight facilities are typically limited. Basic seating arrangements are what travelers may anticipate. Legroom is constrained, and there is no overhead storage. There are no restrooms or in-flight entertainment systems.

Manthali airport is reachable by car, jeep, or bus. The journey takes 4-6 hours. Buses carrying tourists leave Kathmandu at either 2 a.m. or 11 a.m. The route takes the Araniko Highway and is roughly 132 km/82 mi long.

Unfortunately, the rainy season might add travel time. So, it’s helpful to allow extra time for travel.

A tourist bus from Kathmandu to the Ramechhap airport costs between $30 and $35. Private jeeps and cars, meanwhile, can cost more. But they may be faster and more comfortable.

Alternative transportation options to Lukla

In addition to the aircraft from Manthali/Ramechhap to Lukla, there are many other choices. They consist of the following:

Helicopter: Helicopter services are available from Kathmandu. A heli flight from Kathmandu is faster and more pleasant than a flight. Nonetheless, the cost of a helicopter service is typically more than a flight’s.

Depending on the service, a heli flight from Kathmandu to Lukla can cost anywhere between $450 and $550 per person. Booking in advance is advised because helicopter services are popular during the busiest trekking seasons.

Pros:

• Faster travel time
• More comfortable than a flight from Manthali/Ramechhap or Kathmandu
• Private charter option available
• Stunning aerial views of the Himalayas

Cons:

• More expensive than other options
• Limited seating capacity (usually 5-6 people)
• Flights can be affected by weather conditions and may be delayed or canceled.

Road: Another option is to travel from Kathmandu to Jiri or Salleri and trek to Lukla via the Everest Base Camp classical route. The classical way to Everest follows the same path as the first Mount Everest expedition.

Road travel might be time-consuming, but it allows travelers to enjoy the natural majesty. Also, engaging with locals along the trip exposes one to their culture.

Private vehicles like jeeps or vans can be rented from Kathmandu to Jiri or Salleri. Depending on the type of car, a private vehicle can range from about $107 to $293. It takes 6 to 8 hours to complete the journey.

Pros:

• More comfortable than trekking
• Allows for a scenic drive through the countryside
• Offers the option of a private vehicle for more comfort

Cons:

• But the road journey can be long and bumpy
• Weather and other factors can affect road conditions.

Conclusion

The chances of a flight cancellation are significantly reduced due to less air traffic from Manthali. Lukla, notorious for flight cancellations, makes the short flight from Manthali well worth taking. However, it is important to note that the flight schedule can be subject to change. Flights may be delayed or canceled due to bad weather or unforeseen circumstances. Therefore, keeping some extra time in the itinerary and preparing for potential delays is advisable.