Lukla Region of Nepal

Overview of Lukla

Lukla (2,860m/9,383ft) is the primary gateway to the Everest region and home to the world's most extreme airport. This small mountain town in Solukhumbu District serves as the starting point for treks to Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes, and other iconic Himalayan routes.

Key Facts

  • Elevation: 2,860m (9,383ft)
  • Population: ~1,500 (mostly Sherpa)
  • Best Season: October-November & March-April
  • Famous For: Tenzing-Hillary Airport (LUA)

How to Reach Lukla?

1. By Air (Most Common)

  • Kathmandu to Lukla: 25 min
  • Airlines: Yeti, Tara, Sita Air
  • Cost: $180-$300 roundtrip
  • Baggage: 10kg checked + 5kg carry-on
  • Ramechhap to Lukla: 15 min (used during peak season, requires 4hr drive from Kathmandu)
Pro Tip: Book morning flights (better weather) and allow 2-3 extra days for potential delays.

2. By Trekking (Alternative)

  • Jiri to Lukla: 5-7 days via the traditional "Pioneer's Route"
  • Better acclimatization but adds time to the journey

Lukla Town Essentials

Facilities Available

  • ATMs (Last reliable withdrawal before Namche)
  • Gear Shops (Higher prices than Kathmandu)
  • WiFi / Sim Cards (Ncell works best)
  • Medical Clinic (Basic first aid)

Where to Stay?

Lodge Name Price/Night Features
Yeti Mountain Home $50-$80 Luxury option, heated rooms
Nirvana Lodge $20-$40 Great mountain views
Sherpa Lodge $10-$25 Budget-friendly

Trekking Routes from Lukla

  • Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek: 12-14 days, max elevation 5,364m, key stops: Namche, Tengboche, Gorak Shep
  • Gokyo Lakes Trek: 12-15 days, highlights: 6 lakes, Gokyo Ri (5,357m)
  • Three Passes Trek: 18-21 days, includes Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), Renjo La (5,340m)
  • Pikey Peak Trek: 7-9 days, best for Everest views without extreme altitude

Tenzing-Hillary Airport (LUA)

  • World's Most Extreme Airport
  • Runway: 527m long, 11.7% gradient
  • Only experienced pilots are allowed to operate here
  • Alternatives: Helicopter ($500 one-way) or trek from Jiri/Salleri
  • Fun Fact: Built in 1964 by Sir Edmund Hillary's team to support Everest expeditions

Permits Required

  • Sagarmatha National Park Permit: ~$30
  • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit: ~$20
  • TIMS Card: Only required if not hiring a guide
Permits can be obtained in Lukla or Kathmandu.

What to Do in Lukla?

  • Visit the Hillary Memorial (Statue of Sir Edmund Hillary)
  • Explore Local Markets (Last chance to check gear)
  • Acclimatize (1-night stay recommended)
  • Try Sherpa Cuisine (Tibetan bread, Sherpa stew)

Safety & Health Tips

  • Altitude Sickness: Lukla is already at 2,860m - monitor symptoms
  • Weather: Unpredictable - pack for all conditions
  • Rescue Insurance: Mandatory - Helicopter evacuation costs $3,000-$5,000

Sample 2-Day Lukla Itinerary

Day Activities
Day 1
  • Arrive by flight
  • Gear check/shopping
  • Visit local monasteries
  • Overnight acclimatization
Day 2
  • Early start to Phakding (3-4 hr trek)
  • Gradual descent helps acclimatization

Why Start Your Trek from Lukla?

  • Saves Time (vs. walking from Jiri)
  • Better Acclimatization (Gradual ascent to Namche)
  • Iconic Experience (Famous airport landing)
  • Full Services (Last major town before the mountains)