Short answer
In the peak trekking months, roughly spring and autumn, most flights to Lukla leave from Manthali airport in Ramechhap instead of Kathmandu, to ease congestion at Tribhuvan International Airport. Ramechhap is about four to five hours' drive from Kathmandu, so trekkers usually leave in the middle of the night to reach the morning flights. Outside the busy months some flights run from Kathmandu. Weather often delays or cancels Lukla flights, so add one or two spare days to your plans and confirm the departure airport with your airline.
The details
Planning around the flight
- Ask your airline which airport your flight leaves from.
- Allow four to five hours for the drive to Ramechhap, usually overnight.
- Add one or two spare days for weather.
- Pack light, around 15 kg in total.
Common problems
How much luggage can I take?
Airlines on the route are reported to allow about 15 kg in total, typically 10 kg checked and 5 kg hand luggage. Check with your airline.
My flight was cancelled for weather.
Weather is the most common reason for cancellations. Ask your airline or agency for the next available flight. Spare days in your itinerary stop a delay from cutting your trek short.
Is there another way to Lukla?
Helicopters can still fly from Kathmandu in the busy seasons, at a much higher price.
Real experiences
Been through this recently? Tell the next person which office you went to and what they asked for. Reports are published as community notes, apart from the official information.
Share your experienceSources
- Best Heritage Tour: Lukla flights diverted to Ramechhapbestheritagetour.com
- Nepal Hiking: Kathmandu to Lukla flightsnepalhiking.com
Written from the sources above and last checked on 8 Oct 2026. Some details aren't confirmed against an official page yet, so check fees and documents with the office before you go.
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