Lukla Flight Diversions & Ramechhap (Manthali) Logistics Guide 2026
Since 2024, the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) has implemented seasonal flight diversions for the Kathmandu–Lukla route to mitigate airspace congestion and improve safety. During peak trekking months (March-May and October-November), a significant portion of flights are operated from Manthali Airport in Ramechhap District.
Key Logistics for 2026:
- Ground Transfer: Requires a 4-5 hour drive from Kathmandu to Manthali. Most departures leave Kathmandu between 1:00 AM and 2:00 AM.
- Flight Time: The flight from Manthali to Lukla is approximately 15-20 minutes, significantly shorter than the Kathmandu departure.
- Benefit: Manthali flights are often more reliable during morning weather windows.
At The Everest Holiday, we manage all logistics including private transfers and flight coordination to ensure a seamless transition to the Khumbu region.
