How to Go Manthali Airport? Kathmandu to Ramechaap

Being a travel enthusiast, you must have known about Manthali Airport. Manthali Airport is an airport in the Ramechhap District of Nepal, playing a very vital role in connecting travelers to the Everest region, especially during peak trekking seasons. When traffic congestion overwhelms Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport, flights from Manthali to Lukla become a popular and practical alternative for tourists.

One key aspect that binds the confidence of travelers in Manthali Airport is its safety. As of 2024, there are no reports of crashes directly associated with this airport. However, there was an incident in April 2019 when a Tara Air plane skidded off the runway during landing. Thankfully, there were no casualties, which further underscores the airport’s reliability in handling flights.

Besides its operational significance, Manthali Airport also contributes much to the economy of Nepal in terms of tourism. The government makes roughly $3.5 million every year from climbing permits, out of which almost 95% of revenue comes from the Everest expedition. The seasonal flights between Manthali and Lukla play an important role in these climbing trips, ensuring smooth travel for trekkers and adventurers while indirectly contributing to the nation’s substantial tourism revenue.

About Manthali Airport: Quick Facts

Manthali Airport is a gateway to the Everest region for adventurers. It lies about 132 kilometers from Kathmandu and is strategically positioned. Manthali Airport is famous for its efficiency and has also been very vital in the tourism industry in Nepal as an alternative airport for flights to Lukla during the busy seasons of the trek. Some of the quick facts about Manthali Airport are:

• Location: Manthali, Ramechhap District, about a 4-hour drive from Kathmandu.
• Primary Function: Serves as a hub for flights to Lukla, the gateway to Mount Everest.
• Runway Type: The airport features a single asphalt runway suitable for small aircraft operations.
• Altitude: Positioned at 474 meters (1,555 feet) above sea level, providing favorable conditions for takeoff and landing.
• Operational Peak: Manthali Airport experiences its busiest periods during the spring and autumn trekking seasons.
• Safety Record: The airport has maintained a commendable safety record, with no major crashes reported as of 2024.
• Importance: It significantly reduces flight delays and congestion at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport during peak seasons.

Travel Ramechaap, Manthali Airport: Every Essential Details Regarding the Flight

Manthali Airport is one of the best options, especially for trekkers who are on the way to Everest Base Camp. Traveling from Kathmandu to Ramechhap normally takes up to 4 hours of drive, offering picturesque views of Nepal’s countryside. The airport was strategically chosen during the high trekking seasons of the year in order to reduce delays of flights and congestion at Tribhuvan International Airport. Flights between Manthali and Lukla are operated by a number of domestic airlines that ensure timely service during the busiest times of the year.

Manthali used to be a hub for trekkers in spring and autumn to have a smooth journey to the Everest region including EBC trek. Flights from this airport are very punctual and effective. Compared to Kathmandu, flight delays take lesser time than in Kathmandu. It’s highly recommended booking the tickets in advance during peak months of a year for securing the flights since Lukla-bound flight demand goes higher. Moreover, it is recommended to stay overnight in Ramechhap for early morning flights to Lukla, making it quite smooth and easy.

Kathmandu to Manthali Flight Price

The fares of flight might differ as per the trekking season. Here is the pricing of the Flights from Kathmandu to Manthali.

How Far is Lukla From Manthali?

Lukla lies approximately 50 kilometers, or 31 miles, from Manthali Airport. The journey takes about 15–20 minutes, depending on flight conditions, but it definitely gives great aerial views of Nepal. It’s such a very close distance that flights from Manthali to Lukla are favorable, quick, and cut off a lot of one’s time for trekkers. With its efficient operations and proximity, Manthali Airport has become the preferred choice for Lukla-bound travelers during peak trekking seasons. 

Travel Price and Duration from Manthali Ramechaap to Lukla

Flights from Manthali to Lukla are quicker, faster, and more efficient because it avoids the congestion at Kathmandu. It also allows trekkers to enjoy uninterrupted schedules, which makes them an ideal choice for those prioritizing punctuality and ease of travel. If you want to see epic landscapes, Nepal has another flying option.  If you are high on budget and want to experience surreal mountain trails and cultural reflections, the flight from Manthali Ramechap to Lukla will get the deal done as another one of your options. Below table will help you make the best decision.