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Updated: September 8, 2024
Attention trekkers and travelers! Starting September 20, 2024, and continuing through November 30, 2024, all flights from Kathmandu to Lukla will be diverted to Ramechhap Manthali Airport due to seasonal air traffic congestion.
If you're planning to trek to Everest Base Camp or explore the Everest region, this change is crucial for your logistics planning.
Ramechhap is a small regional airstrip located 140 km (85 miles) east of Kathmandu. The drive takes approximately 5 hours, and return travel can take up to 8 hours depending on traffic. The area lacks major tourist infrastructure, so plan accordingly.
If weather conditions cancel your flight from Ramechhap, helicopter alternatives may be available. While weather must allow for safe helicopter operation, trekkers should budget at least $600 extra for this possibility. Costs vary by group size and urgency.
Though less convenient, Ramechhap offers better scheduling efficiency. Its 12-minute flight time to Lukla allows for more trips and improved reliability. In contrast, Kathmandu–Lukla flights (35 minutes) often face runway congestion even during clear weather. Thus, Ramechhap is a strategic but temporary solution for managing seasonal demand.
Expect an early departure — typically around 2–3 a.m. from your hotel in Kathmandu. You'll be briefed the evening before your trek, and your schedule may adjust if flights were delayed the previous day. Guests already waiting in Ramechhap may be prioritized, so flexibility is key.
We’ll keep you updated and provide transportation, timing, and weather briefings so you're fully prepared to start your Everest adventure smoothly.
