The updated air route | Lukla flights from Ramechhap

Lukla is probably the first place that comes to mind if you're an adventure enthusiast or hiker planning a trek through the magnificent Himalayas. In Nepal's Solukhumbu district, Lukla serves as both the entrance to the Everest region and the starting point for several well-liked trekking routes, including the well-known Everest Base Camp trek. However, a change in flight paths has attracted the attention of numerous travelers. Flights to Lukla now leave from Manthali Airport which lies in the Ramechhap district instead of Kathmandu Airport.

 

The Shift from Kathmandu Airport

Historically, Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu was known as the departure point for Lukla flights. Numerous trekkers and climbers would travel to Kathmandu, spend the night there, and then take a flight early the next morning to Lukla. However, the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) determinedly decided to divert Lukla flights to Ramechhap airport due to the increasing air traffic and congestion at Kathmandu airport.

 

About Manthali Airport

Manthali Airport, about 132 kilometers east of Kathmandu in the Ramechhap district, is now the new point of departure for flights to Lukla. This airport is a good substitute for the jam-packed Kathmandu airport because it has a longer runway and can accommodate many flights. The choice to run flights from Ramechhap enables easier air traffic control and gives passengers a more efficient and practical experience.

 

Benefits for travelers

• Reduced Travel Time

One of the major advantages of the new air route is the reduced travel time for trekkers. Ramechhap Airport is closer to Lukla compared to Kathmandu Airport. The flight takes 20 minutes to reach Lukla from Ramechaap Airport.  Instead of facing the bustling traffic of Kathmandu city, travelers can reach Ramechhap airport via a scenic road journey that takes around 5-6 hours, depending on road conditions and stops along the way. The journey is a captivating one, taking you through a charming city, lush green hills, and terraced fields. You’ll pass through two beautiful destinations (Bhaktapur and Dhulikhel) during the road drive.

Bhaktapur:

Bhaktapur is a "Living Museum" and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The rich architectural heritage of this historic city will transport you back in time as you drive through it. You will be amazed by the magnificent palaces, carved temples, and colorful traditional homes. And also, you can take an opportunity to explore Durbar Square and pay a visit to the stunning Nyatapola Temple, which is five floors high.

 

Dhulikhel:

You can experience amazing sunrise and sunset views over the magnificent Himalayan ranges by taking a quick side trip to Dhulikhel. You will be fascinated by the stunning panoramas of Langtang Himal, Ganesh Himal, and Gauri Shankar Himal.

 

• Reliability and less congestion

Travelers can avoid lengthy lines and crowded airports in Kathmandu with the relocation of Lukla flights to Ramechhap. There are fewer flights at Ramechhap Airport, which makes check-in easier and makes flight schedules reliable. Trekkers can count on the airlines' smooth operations to keep them on schedule.

 

• Improved Safety

Another important advantage of flying out of Ramechhap Airport is increased safety. Ramechhap's longer runway and improved infrastructure ensure safer takeoffs and landings even in adverse conditions. This policy change has resulted in a significant reduction in the number of flight cancellations and delays caused by severe weather, facilitating a better travel experience for passengers.

 

• Better views of the Himalayas

The flight from Ramechhap to Lukla has the added benefit of providing breathtaking views of the Himalayan range right from takeoff. Trekkers are mesmerized by the picturesque landscapes, which feature snow-capped peaks and rough mountain terrain, setting the stage for the adventure that lies ahead.

 

The relocation of Lukla flights from Kathmandu to Ramechhap airport represents an important advancement in the means of transport systems for Everest region trekkers. This new air route not only shortens travel time but also provides a safer and more stable journey.