Kathmandu to Manthali bus

Home
Kathmandu to Manthali bus

Kathmandu to Manthali bus

Kathmandu to Manthali (Ramechhap) Bus for Lukla Flights

Traveling from Kathmandu to Manthali (Ramechhap) by bus or car is essential for those flying to Lukla for the Everest base camp trek or any trek in the Everest region. During peak trekking seasons, Kathmandu airport’s busy runway and limited domestic flight windows often cause delays. To avoid this, airlines operate flights to Lukla from Manthali Airport, ensuring timely departures before weather conditions in the mountains change.

Travel to Manthali Airport for Lukla Flights

Manthali Airport, located in the Ramechhap District of Province No. 3, is about four hours from Kathmandu by road. Nepal Wilderness Trekking offers various transportation options, including private jeeps, cars, and shared tourist vehicles, to meet your travel needs between Kathmandu and Manthali.

The Adventurous Journey from Kathmandu to Ramechhap

The journey from Kathmandu to Ramechhap is an adventure in itself. Departing from the bustling capital, you’ll travel along a six-lane highway to Bhaktapur before transitioning to a narrower, two-lane road that ascends through satellite towns and the Dhulikhel hill station. Here, the road connects to the B.P. Koirala Highway, where it winds through numerous hairpin bends. Despite the challenging terrain, the scenic hills, terraced farms, and quaint villages provide a picturesque backdrop. In the latter part of the journey, you’ll enjoy views of the Sunkoshi and Tamakoshi Rivers.

Optimal Travel Option: Kathmandu to Ramechhap for Lukla Flights

For trekkers heading to Lukla, the most efficient travel option is to take a bus or jeep from Kathmandu to Ramechhap, departing at 1 a.m. This early start ensures that your schedule remains intact without adding an extra day to your itinerary. By arriving in Ramechhap around 6:30 a.m., you’ll have enough time to relax, have breakfast, and catch your flight to Lukla without any rush.

Bus Schedule and Frequency

Departure Time: Buses and jeeps to Manthali depart from Kathmandu at 1 a.m. to ensure timely arrival for morning flights to Lukla.
Frequency: During the peak trekking seasons, buses and jeeps operate daily, providing consistent service for trekkers.
Duration: The bus journey typically takes 4 to 5 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic.

Booking and Ticketing Information

Tickets for the Kathmandu to Manthali bus can be booked in advance through Nepal Wilderness Trekking or other travel agencies. It’s advisable to book early, especially during the peak season, to secure your seat. Payment can be made online or at the agency’s office in Kathmandu.

Bus Fare: $30 per person for a shared tourist bus.
Private Vehicle Options:
- Car (5 persons): $150 total
- Jeep (7 persons): $200 total
- Hiace-Bus (15 persons): $250 total

Tips for Travelers

Early Departure: Departing at 1 a.m. ensures you arrive in Manthali in time for your flight, avoiding delays that could impact your trekking schedule.
Comfort: Dress warmly and bring a blanket or jacket, as the early morning ride can be chilly.
Food and Water: Bring snacks and water for the journey, as stops are limited.
Luggage: Ensure your luggage is securely packed, as the journey includes winding roads and occasional rough patches.

Connecting Flights from Manthali to Lukla

Upon arriving in Manthali, travelers can relax and have breakfast before boarding their flight to Lukla. The flight duration from Manthali to Lukla is approximately 20 minutes.

Flight Costs: $180 per person, one way.
Departure Time: Flights to Lukla typically depart early in the morning, between 6:30 a.m. and 9:00 a.m., depending on weather conditions.

Additional Services: Guides and Porters from Lukla

If you need a guide or porter for your Everest trek, we can arrange for them to meet you in Lukla. During the peak season, our guides and porters are based in Lukla to assist trekkers.

Guide Costs: The guide’s wage is $30 per day.
Porter Costs: The porter’s wage is $25 per day, or $22 per day if hired solely for carrying loads. These rates include three meals a day, accommodation, equipment, insurance, and salary.
Service Fee: If you hire a guide starting from Lukla, a one-time service fee and government tax of $30 per person will apply.