The early morning flight from Kathmandu to Lukla* offers a panoramic view of the eastern Himalayas; Langtang, Gauri, Shanker, Numbur, Manglungtse, and finally Everest appear during this 45-minute flight. In Lukla (2,700 m), the Sherpas await us with our equipment. The trek begins with a short descent into the Dudh Koshi valley. From the village of Chaunrikarka (2,621 m), the trail heads north through Sherpa villages where wheat, potatoes, corn, and vegetables are cultivated. We cross the Dudh Koshi on a wooden suspension bridge.
*Note: The flight between Kathmandu and Lukla only takes place in good weather conditions.
Also due to congestion at Kathmandu airport (the same runway for international and domestic flights), the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) is considering operating all flights to Lukla from Ramechhap airport. The decision has not yet been officially confirmed.
So for the moment, here are the two possibilities:
* Domestic flights:
Kathmandu – Lukla outbound (45 minutes) and Lukla – Kathmandu return (45 minutes)
OR
Road transfer to Ramechhap (4-5 hours drive) then flight Ramechhap – Lukla (20 minutes)
Flight from Ramechap to Kathmandu on the return (20 minutes), then road transfer to Kathmandu (4 to 5 hours)