How To Get To Lukla Without Flying?

You might love traveling, but are you ready for the trailblazing and one of the most dangerous voyages of your life? While you might be thinking of going to the Amazon forest with so many risks to face or ascending an impossible mountain to the summit, we have prepared one of the different destinations. Just racing to the destination will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience since the navigation route can whirl your belly.

We are talking about Lukla, one of the most dangerous and challenging destinations. Situated at 2,860 meters (9,383 feet) from sea level, Lukla can give you some adventurous memories for a lifetime. 

If you ask any visitors who have traveled to Lukla, you will not hesitate to narrate the journey and the difficulties they faced. From its land topography to the access to facilities you receive in the place, it will spill the beans on how hard it is to get there. Similarly, the steep airstrip and hazardous weather play a vital role in most of the accidents that happen here.

Most of the hikers to Everest follow the route of Lukla - it takes a couple of days to reach Namche Bazaar from here. The danger starts before their hike to Everest, and Lukla is a barrier to smooth travel. There is only one small airport, which is listed as one of the most dangerous airports in the world. Due to the land topography, it is hard for air pilots to navigate to Lukla airport. Moreover, the low air pressure directly impacts the handling of an airplane since Lukla sits at a high altitude.

The word 'Lukla' refers to a 'place with many goats and sheep' and though only a few are found in the area, it has some other prospects from the tourism side. The town has somehow upgraded from the past, having a variety of lodges and shops that provide you with Western-style lodging and food.

It only takes 20 minutes of flight from Kathmandu to reach Lukla. You can get access from the twin-engined Dornier 228s and de Havilland Canada Twin Otters, which make a frequent run into the field.

But what if you want to avoid opting for a flight to get to Lukla? You can get there without a flight for sure, but what are the guidelines and plans for you? You will need to know the step-by-step guidelines and process of the routes for an easy voyage. We have prepared some tips to get you to Lukla without a flight. Have some say in what we have designed!!

Arrival In Kathmandu

Arrive in Kathmandu from the flight and consult your travel agency for further process. The agency provides the best hotels to accommodate you according to your budget choice.

You can also explore the city before you start your journey to Lukla. We believe the religious vibes the temples and monuments give will not nod your head down. Similarly, you can further cherish the nightlife in the town and prepare your trekking gear around Thamel.

You can use your time before the journey for preparation - having set up for food and accommodation, budget allocation, and extra activities can really bring soul to your trip. 

Taking a Bus From Kathmandu to Tham Danda

Taking a bus from Kathmandu to Lukla is not a cup of your tea since there is no navigation directly from the capital. You will have to make your stop at Tham Danda Buspa or make your way from Ramechaap.

It costs around Rs 5000 to 10000 to reach Tham Danda from Kathmandu on any rented private vehicle. Similarly, it takes about 4 to 5 hours from Tham Danda to reach Lukla.

Flights from Ramechaap to Lukla are also available, but if you are taking your journey without a flight, navigation is open from the spot. So heading to Ramechaap to make your trails to Lukla will be an alternative way to reach there.

Trekking via Phaplu and Salleri Route

First, set your destination to Phaplu - take a bus or a rented vehicle from Kathmandu. Generally, people rent a jeep or opt for a local bus. 

You will need to travel to Salleri from Kathmandu - it's 8 to 9 hours of the journey which can be hectic sometimes. But Nepal's nature has so much to provide that you cannot be done with pleasing your eyes on the route. The beautiful mountains, landscapes, and natural beauty in the way can relish your barriers of traveling by bus.

The initial journey will be soothing since you will travel on black-pitched roads; however, after you reach the countryside, you will experience lots of bumps due to its land structure. And the most critical factor, there are no black-topped roads in the village.

Battle Village, at 2,840 meters above sea level, is located where you have a heavenly look at Mount Everest, Mount Makalu, and several other peaks. Finally, after a long drive of 7 to 9 hours from Kathmandu, you will reach Salleri. You can pack up your trip there and rest at a favorable hotel/lodge. 

The next day, you kick off for Phaplu, which takes a few hours to reach there. The suburbs of Phaplu is the hometown of many indigenous people and communities of Nepal like Rai, Limbu, and Sherpa. The town provides you with several shops and hotels to take your meal.

After Phaplu, you will reach Ringmo Village and Takshindu la (3,071m). The route's ancient Buddist Chorten and Mani walls will spice up your journey. By the end of the day, you will be at Shindo Village, where you will take a night off.

After Takshindo, you will pass through Kharikhola and Bupsa, after which you will trek for a day to reach Lukla.

Trekking From Jiri or Sotang Route

First, reach Jiri from Kathmandu - it usually takes 5 to 7 hours to get to Jiri. The ultimate journey from this journey starts from Jiri to Lukla, and on the way, you pass through several delightful villages. Since Nepalese culture is far more hospitable than any place you could ever find, you will be warmly welcomed by the locals.

After you start your trek from Jiri, your next destination will be Shivalaya and Bhandar. It still leaves you with 6 to 7 more days to reach Lukla.

On the way, you can experience the call of nature with Dudh Koshi valley having its arm wide open to welcome you. Similarly, passing through Chaurikharka and Choplung will be a breathtaking experience for you, which will color your way to Lukla without taking flights.

Best Option for Getting to Lukla Without Flying: Renting a Vehicle or Local Bus?

Usually, we suggest renting a vehicle to reach Jiri or Salleri rather than traveling in the buses. Well, it can be time-saving and safe for you if you choose to go through rented ones.

Buses are generally crowded, and you will have little safety with your belongings on the long trip. Similarly, it will take around 7 to 9 hours to reach your first destination before starting your journey to Lukla. On the other hand, rented vehicles do stop for the passengers, that's why it might be the best option for you to get to Lukla without taking flights.

Consult your travel agency to manage a jeep or any other form of vehicle to suit you for your trek.

Tips for Safe Traveling To Lukla

The first and foremost thing about traveling is safety - without it, you never know if you are taking a chance to travel. Since Lukla is one of the most challenging destinations to reach, travelers' safety is the primary thing to notice during the trek.

Be prepared for your basic needs during the trek. Do not go off with your food or water to make you full and be hydrated. You also want to take a first-aid kit with you, for you can get any injury on the route. You never know. Moreover, get your plan ready for the budget for lodging and food. And you can bring your tent if you enjoy outdoor living or plan to take your night off between the routes.

Be with your group so that you will take advantage of the route along the way. Group treks can also be fun since you can cherish the natural beauty with your friends or family.

Lukla is just a gateway to Everest Base Camp. If you are willing to take your trip further to the EBC, you can reach it in around eight days.