Lukla Airport

This airport was built in 1964 by Sir Edmund Hillary with the support of “Himalayan Trust Fund Edmund Hillary”. It has been operating since September 1971. Despite its early establishment, the runway was paved in 2001. Later in 2008, on the basis of the name of the 1st climbers on Everest, it got popular as “Tenzing – Hillary Airport”.

In the initial phase, the idea was about raising an alternative airport in Syangboche (near Namche Bazaar). The mass protest of locals against the idea was later amended with the development of Lukla Airport. Similarly, the airport’s value inclined as the certainty of the development of tourism in the Khumbu region. On one hand, the arrival of a large number of tourists threatens the ecology of Sagarmatha National Park. On the contrary, it generates a true economic benefit for the Sherpas and other residents that helps in raising the living standard.

Lukla airport is regarded as the deadliest airport in the world due to its altitude and geographical structure.  It is the busiest domestic airport. This airport lies at an elevation of nearly 9,338 feet (2846 meters) with a little descent before landing. It has a tiny lane of 1,729 feet long. 

There is only one runway that slopes upward into the side of the mountain. This incline assists to slow down the landing aircraft and give speed to the aircraft taking off. Analyzing the last 10 years data, more than 20 people died in the Lukla plane crash. The major reason is poor Visibility, changes in weather conditions. It is one the deadliest airports in the world.

Lukla Airport in Nepal lies in the high altitude. Surrounded by mountains and at an altitude of 2860 m, the weather and geographical challenges are the major cause, making it the most dangerous airport in the world. The Tenzing Hillary Airport in Lukla not only has a short runway but also has weather difficulties. The sheer wind and poor visibility, air density in the high altitude, poor weather contribute to some casualties sometimes.

However, efficient pilots and aircraft manage to make a safe landing despite the challenges. This is the major gateway to the legendary Everest base camp trek. The alternative to Lukla takes multiple days trekking all the way to Everest. But Trekkers do not prefer to trek to Lukla as it is not so popular and further trek to the top of the world becomes more problematic. 

Lukla is a place of danger, not every time, but in poor weather conditions. The sudden changes in the weather make it uncertain and difficult. However, the flight to Lukla is still an adventurous one.

Banking transactions such as ATM and currency exchange are available. Several banks such as Rastriya Banijya Bank, Nepal Investment Bank Limited, Nepal Bank, etc. are available there. There is a community health post. Private ownership pharmacies, including medical experts, are also available.

Although Lukla airport of Nepal is the most dangerous airport in the world, Lukla airport provides airways facilities to the trekkers around the globe. Local people gain beneficiaries either economically or socially. Hence, Lukla airport aids tourism in the country.

Lukla has been a place of tremendous importance for the trekkers and mountain lovers who want to explore the Everest region of Nepal. It is the only gateway that opens up the possibilities to enter the Everest of Nepal in a short time. For now, Air accessibility is the only option apart from trekking for weeks to reach Lukla. But in the near future, Lukla could be accessible for the road transportation facilities, making it cheaper and more accessible. 

A new road is under construction and anticipated to be completed within Dec 2022. This could transform the entire region making tourism activities wider and may enhance the development process. It could also help to uplift the lifestyle of local people and contribute more in terms of social and economic returns. 

Lukla is an incredible touristic place in the Everest region. Every trekker who wants to trek in the Everest region must reach Lukla before embarking their adventure onwards. 

The road will not enter the Sagarmatha National Park, considering the fact that human interference to a larger extent might harm the ecology and the habitat. However, it will make the trekking and expedition activities in the Everest region very easy and lucrative. 

The capital of Nepal Kathmandu is linked with the Phalpu of Solukhumbu District. The Phalpu village is approximately a two days trek below the Lukla. Now, a 77 Km road linking Phalpu and Chaurikharka is being constructed which will cut the trekking time to Lukla via Phalpu in less than half.

Lukla is a popular place for trekkers in the Everest region. This place is also known as the gateway to Everest and observes a lot of visitors every year. Lukla is situated in difficult terrain. So, the only accessibility that is prominent for now is the airway. And Lukla for that is known as the world's one of the most dangerous airports. 

Lukla is an amazing destination if you are planning to experience the thrill of Lukla Airport while exploring the amazing vistas of Mahalangur Himalayan Range and various other neighbouring mountain ranges. Also, the captivating yet thrilling sight of the geographical variations throughout the flying experience is a lifetime memory. 

There are a few hotels that provide accommodation facilities in Lukla. Some of the popular hotels where you can reside after reaching Lukla are mentioned here. 

Yeti Mountain Home

Situated in a beautiful settlement of Chaurikharka in Lukla, Yeti Mountain Home is one of the best hotels in this area. This place offers lovely tranquil and attractive decor while facilitating you with the finest dining and lodging experience. Run by the professional group of Sherpas, this hotel offers the finest luxury of the mountains and a wonderful company of the natives. This hotel is a part of Thamserku group of companies. 

La Villa Sherpani Lukla

Situated at an altitude of 2800 m above sea level in Lukla, La Villa Sherpani is a beautiful and comfortable hotel. The peaceful atmosphere and Sherpa cultural richness wonderfully portrayed in the hotel is the best part here. This hotel offers dining and lodging experience in its finely decorated rooms and spaces. 

Everest Summit Lodge

Everest Summit Lodge is a popular lodge situated in Lukla. It offers a tranquil atmosphere and a spacious lawn around the place is wonderful. Also, you can witness the mountain sights and explore the Sherpa lifestyle. 

Hikers Inn Lukla

Hikers Inn Lukla is a popular Hotel in Lukla. Spacious rooms and dining options are the major specialities here. It is also one of the top selections among the trekkers in the Everest region of Nepal. There are various other facilities available such as a Bank, Atm, Spa, Shopping complex, free wifi, attached bathroom, suite and budget room, rooftop restaurant etc.

To reach Lukla, Flying is the easiest and most accessible way to reach Kathmandu. There are some domestic Airlines operating flights from Kathmandu to Lukla. Tara Airlines, Sita Airlines, and Goma Airlines operate regular flights to Lukla from Kathmandu. It takes around 25 minutes of flying time to reach Lukla from Kathmandu. 

Flying to Lukla is not always available because of the unpredictable weather conditions. Sometimes, flights get cancelled and delayed looking after the weather favorability.