Lukla is a village in the Khumbu region. Situated at 2,860 meters above sea level, it serves as a vital waypoint for travelers visiting the Himalaya.

The Airport

Lukla is renowned for its particularly dangerous altiport: a runway just 500 meters long (compared to 3,050 meters for Kathmandu airport) and 20 meters wide, all constructed on poor-quality asphalt inclined at 12 degrees. Beyond the terrain itself, pilots must contend with the fickle high-altitude weather: fog, storms, updrafts, and more.

Only helicopters and small fixed-wing aircraft such as vintage German DO-228s or the Swiss Pilatus PC-12 are capable of landing here.

From Lukla, you are 2 days' trek away from the village of Namche Bazaar.

What to Do in Lukla

Visit Lukla Hospital, founded by Nicole Niquille and Passang Lamu, which provides essential medical care to the Sherpa community

Sample local specialties at the local market, held every Thursday

Celebrate before your departure to honor your upcoming ascent!