Ramechhap Airport
Ramechhap Airport is also known as Manthali Airport. It is a new gateway for flights to Lukla. It is located in Manthali town in Ramechhap district. This domestic airport sits at an altitude of 474 meters above sea level, about 130 kmeast of Kathmandu.
The Ramechhap airport mainly operates the flights to Lukla in the morning time, as the weather in the Everest region tends to change after mid-morning. Although it’s a small airport, it has all the basic services like parking, restrooms, local lodges, and small cafes. It is a peaceful location and has more reliable flight schedules compared to the busy Kathmandu domestic terminal.
Reason to Fly Lukla from Ramechhap Airport
If you wonder why Lukla flight operates from Ramechhap nowadays instead of Kathmandu then here are the reasons:
- Kathmandu Airport Congestion: Since we know that Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu is the busiest airport in Nepal. Due to heavy traffic in the morning hours, the aircraft bound for Lukla faced long delays or cancellations. So, to solve this, the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) shifted Lukla flights to Ramechhap Airport.
- Stable Weather and Fewer Delays: Ramechhap Airport lies 474 meters above sea level, and it is less affected by fog and poor visibility compared to Kathmandu. Which means clear skies and a high chance of flying on time to Lukla.
- Shorter Flight Duration: From Ramechhap, the flight to Lukla takes only 15-20 minutes, which is much shorter than from Kathmandu. So, less time means there is a lower chance of weather disruption.
- Scenic Experience:Flying from Ramechhap offers the same Himalayan views as the classic Kathmandu to Lukla route. You’ll be able to see majestic peaks like Numbur, Gaurishankar, and Everest even before landing at Lukla.
How to book a Ramechhap to Lukla Flight Ticket
You can easily book your Kathmandu to Lukla flight right through this page.
- If you’re interested, send us a quick message through WhatsApp or email.
- Provide us with your information about your travel dates, number of passengers, and also mention if you’ve any special requirements.
- We will provide you with the flight details and options.
- Once you’re happy with the flight option and price, just confirm your booking by making the payment.
- Get your ticket by email or WhatsApp.
If you’re in Kathmandu then you can also visit our office in Thamel because many people likes to sort things out in person. We can also help you with the other parts of the trek like if you need a guide, porter, extra gear, or any kind of other helps.
How to reach Ramechhap from Kathmandu
To catch the flight to Lukla from Ramechhap (Manthali Airport) you’ll need to travel from Kathmandu to Ramechhap, which is about 130 km and that takes 4 to 5 hours depending on traffic and the road conditions.
There are two main options to reach Ramechhap:
- Tourist Bus: There is a tourist bus that departs from Kathmandu around 2:00 AM from Kathmandu. This allows passengers to reach Ramechhap in time for early morning flights to Lukla. This option is both convenient and affordable.
- Private Vehicle: If you prefer comfort and flexibility, you can hire a private car, jeep, or van from Kathmandu. Though it is expensive compared to a tourist bus but its perfect for families, groups, or travelers carrying heavy trekking gear. Private transfers can be scheduled in the evening or very early in the morning.
Tip: If you want to avoid a tiring early morning drive, then consider staying overnight in Ramechhap. There are some simple guesthouses and lodges near Manthali Airport. This ensures you reach your flight on time without rushing.
Ramechhap to Lukla Flight Cost
Flying from Ramechhap to Lukla is the fastest and most convenient way to reach the Everest region, but you need to know the current flight cost of Ramechhap to Lukla before planning your trek. Prices vary depending on nationality,season, and airline. Here’s the estimated one-way Ticket prices of Ramechhap to Lukla Flight.
| Passenger Type |
Approx. Fare (One-Way) |
| Foreigners |
USD 190 |
| SAARC/Indian |
INR 13,600 |
| Nepal citizen |
Rs 5,000 |
Important things before you fly to Lukla from Ramechhap
Flying from Ramechhap to Lukla is exciting, but the Himalayan weather and high altitude require careful preparation. Here’s something you must know before your flight.
- Check Weather Conditions: Lukla flights are highly weather-dependent. So, the morning flights from 5:30 AM to 9:00 AM are safest. Also, have a buffer day in your itinerary for possible days.
- Arrive Early at Ramechhap Airport: Arriving 1 day earlier is recommended to avoid missing your flight.
- Carry Proper Documents: Don’t forget your documents i.e., Passport, Trekking permits, flight ticket confirmation. Keep both physical and digital copies for safety.
- Pack light but smart: The maximum checked baggage should be 10 kg, and 5 kg hand luggage. Bring all the essential warm clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and snacks in your hand luggage.
- Health & Safety Tips: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated before flight. Always follow airline crew instructions and wear a seatbelt during takeoff and landing.
- Be Ready for Quick Boarding: You need to arrive at least 1 hour before departure. Boarding and luggage checks are quick but strict.
Is it safe to fly from Ramechhap to Lukla?
Yes, flying from Ramechhap to Lukla is safe when the weather conditions are clear. This is just a 20-minute flight which offers stunning Himalayan views, and it lands at Tenzing-Hillary Airport. This airport is also known as the gateway to Everest.
Since flights operate from Ramechhap (Manthali Airport) instead of Kathmandu, the route is more safer and smoother. This Ramechhap Airport is closer to Lukla, it also has less air traffic, and flights depart early in the morning when the sky is usually clear.
Airlines like Tara Air, Summit Air, and Sita Air follow strict safety rules that include daily weather checks, aircraft maintenance, and experienced pilots trained for short-runway takeoffs and landings. So, you don’t have to worry about any safety risk. However, mountain weather can change quickly, so delays or cancellations are common, but it is not unsafe. Always plan an extra day in your trekking schedule.
Helicopter flight to Lukla
If you want to skip long drives or unpredictable weather, you can also choose a helicopter flight to Lukla. This is one of the best options. It is faster and safer than flights. It also gives you an aerial view of the Himalayan ranges, including Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.
Helicopter flights depart from both Kathmandu and Ramechhap. From Kathmandu, the flight takes around 40-50 minutes, while from Ramechhap it takes around 20 minutes. It is perfect for the trekkers who want comfort and privacy.
You can book a private helicopter or a shared helicopter to reduce costs. If you want to book a private Helicopter from Kathmandu to Lukla, then it costs around USD 3000. While from Ramechhap, it is slightly cheaper. A private helicopter from Ramechhap to Lukla costs around USD 2600.
If you want to reduce costs, then you can also take a shared helicopter ride, which takes around USD 500-600 per person from Kathmandu. While from Ramechhap to Lukla, a shared helicopter costs around USD 400-500. The price of a helicopter may vary in many conditions, like Aircraft size, Number of passengers, weather conditions, fuel surcharges, or due to seasonal time.
Best Travel Seasons for Ramechhap to Lukla Flight
- Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are ideal seasons to travel to Lukla because they bring clear skies and stable weather conditions. These seasons have the least chance of delays.
- Summer (June to August): In this season, flights may get delayed due to monsoon weather.
- Winter (December to February): In this season, the temperature is cold so it may affect flight schedules sometimes.
Booking Tips
- Advance Reservations: Flights can fill up quickly during peak trekking seasons. So we advise you to book your ticket at least 1-2 weeks in advance.
- Weather Considerations: Lukla's weather is unpredictable. So, always have a buffer day in your itinerary for delays.
- Baggage Allowance: Flights only offer 10 kg of checked baggage and 5 kg of hand luggage per person. So pack accordingly.
Contact details for Kathmandu to Lukla flight Ticket
- Booking Office: Himalayan Partner Treks & Expedition PVT. LTD
- Phone Number: +977 985-1053265
- Office Location: Thamel Marg, Kathmandu 44600
- Email: himalayanpartnertrek@gmail.com
Conclusion
Flying from Ramechhap to Lukla is the quickest and most reliable way to start your Everest trek without worrying about delays in Kathmandu. Though it requires a 4-hour drive from Kathmandu but flights from Ramechhap are more frequent and weather-friendly.
Whether you’re heading for Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes, or the Three Passes Trek, book your flight early to ensure your smooth journey.
Himalayan Partner will help you with ticket booking, transport to Ramechhap, and flight confirmation, so your Himalayan adventure starts stress-free. So, book your Ramechhap to Lukla flight with us today and fly closer to Everest.
