KathmanduLukla
25–30 minForeigner fare · one way$257 /person
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Lukla to Kathmandu flight ticket
End your trek with the flight back to Kathmandu. Return tickets sell out and weather delays are common, so book ahead and keep a buffer day.
Lukla to Kathmandu flight — overview
The Lukla to Kathmandu flight is how most trekkers finish an Everest region trip. A scheduled airline flight of 30–35 min takes you from Tenzing-Hillary Airport (LUA) back to Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM). Tickets are from $257 one way for foreign nationals on Sita Air, Summit Air and Tara Air.
Fare (foreigner)$257
Duration30–35 min
FromTenzing-Hillary Airport (LUA)
ToTribhuvan International Airport (KTM)
Flight details at a glance
| Route | Lukla to Kathmandu |
| From | Tenzing-Hillary Airport (LUA) |
| To | Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) |
| Flight time | 30–35 min |
| Airlines | Sita Air, Summit Air and Tara Air |
| Fare (foreigner, one way) | $257 |
| Fare (Indian citizen) | INR 13,750 |
| Fare (Nepali citizen) | NPR 10,600 |
| Fare (guide / staff) | NPR 6,600 |
| Baggage | 10 kg checked + 5 kg cabin per passenger |
| Type | Scheduled fixed-wing airline flight |
The flying experience
Return flights operate in the morning flying window, typically 7:00 AM–10:30 AM, on Dornier Do 228, LET-410, Twin Otter. Seats on the return are in high demand, particularly in the March–May and September–November peaks, so book your return ticket in advance — and plan 1–2 buffer days in Kathmandu before any international departure.
Lukla to Kathmandu flight ticket price and fares
The Lukla to Kathmandu flight ticket is $257 per person, one way for foreign nationals. Indian citizens pay INR 13,750, Nepali citizens NPR 10,600, and guides and staff NPR 6,600. Fares are set by the airlines and can change; we confirm the fare and your e-ticket when you book. Compare with a Lukla to Kathmandu helicopter flight from $600 per person if you want more flexibility.
Baggage allowance and check-in
- Baggage: 10 kg checked + 5 kg cabin per passenger.
- Extra baggage: roughly $1 to $2 per kg, subject to space.
- Check-in: arrive at the domestic terminal at least 1 hour before departure.
- Documents: carry your passport — the name on your ticket must match.
Tips for flying to and from Lukla
- Book as early as you can, especially in March–May and September–November.
- Add 1–2 buffer days to your itinerary — flights are strictly weather dependent.
- Take the earliest departure available; mountain cloud builds through the day.
- Keep your phone on so we can message you about schedule changes.
- Carry travel insurance that covers delays and helicopter evacuation.
More planning help: best time to fly to Lukla, weather delays guide and helicopter vs airline flights.
Lukla to Kathmandu airlines & schedule
| Airline | Departure window | Aircraft | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sita Air | 7:00 AM – 10:30 AM | Dornier Do 228 | Daily |
| Summit Air | 7:00 AM – 10:30 AM | LET-410 | Daily |
| Tara Air | 7:00 AM – 10:30 AM | Twin Otter | Daily |
Exact departure times are confirmed when you book and depend on the airline's timetable and weather.
Weather delays, rebooking and helicopter backup
Flights are strictly weather dependent and run under visual flight rules only. A cancelled flight is generally rescheduled for the next available day or refunded.
Weather delay? Helicopter backup. When airline flights are held, helicopters can often still fly. Lukla to Kathmandu starts from $600 per person on a shared seat. See the helicopter flight →
Lukla to Kathmandu flight — frequently asked questions
How much is the Lukla to Kathmandu flight ticket?
A one-way Lukla to Kathmandu airline ticket costs $257 for foreign nationals. Indian citizens pay INR 13,750, Nepali citizens NPR 10,600, and guides and staff NPR 6,600. Fares can change with the airlines.
Which airlines fly Lukla to Kathmandu?
Sita Air, Summit Air and Tara Air operate this route using aircraft such as the Dornier Do 228, the LET-410 and the Twin Otter. We confirm the airline and exact time when you book.
How long does the Lukla to Kathmandu flight take?
About 30–35 min, depending on weather and air traffic.
What baggage can I take on the Lukla to Kathmandu flight?
10 kg checked + 5 kg cabin per passenger. Extra baggage costs roughly $1 to $2 per kg, subject to space on the aircraft.
What if my Lukla to Kathmandu flight is cancelled?
Flights run under visual flight rules only, so delays and cancellations are common. A cancelled flight is generally rescheduled for the next available day or refunded. You can also switch to a helicopter — Lukla to Kathmandu starts from $600 per person on a shared seat.
Should I take the airline or the helicopter for Lukla to Kathmandu?
Airline tickets are the lowest-cost option. A helicopter costs more but is flexible on timing, can reach high villages, and often flies when airline flights are held. See our helicopter vs airline guide.
Book an airline ticket
Scheduled flights on Sita Air, Summit Air or Tara Air. Send your details and we'll confirm seats and your e-ticket.
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