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Manthali Airport is located in Ramechhap District in eastern Nepal. Actually, it is also referred to as Ramechhap Airport. The small domestic airport is the main backup for Kathmandu Airport. Moreover, it is the main gateway for Lukla flights in peak seasons ( Autumn and Spring). The airport stands at an elevation of 474 meters (1,555 feet). Located about 132 kilometers east of Kathmandu, it is surrounded by hills.
In fact, not so many trekkers were interested to land in this Manthali airport. But due to traffic congestion at Tribhuvan International Airport, Lukla flights were redirected here in Manthali. So these days, during spring and autumn, almost all Lukla flights are conducted from Manthali. Trekkers to the Everest Base Camp (5,364 meters) often pass through here.
Manthali Airport served local communities only at first. The airport was established in 1979 with a short runway. Later, due to its strategic significance, the airport facilities were expanded by the concerned authorities. The airport is managed by the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN). It has slowly become a significant gateway to the Khumbu area.
Due to increased trekkers and mountaineers, improvements were necessary. The 518-meter runway is now paved. Likewise, safety features have been improved with basic navigation tools and weather monitoring devices. Tiny but able to cope with dozens of flights at peak seasons ( Spring and Autumn) for Lukla flight.
Manthali Airport is extremely significant for trekkers heading to Everest region. Almost all flights to Lukla (2,860 meters) in peak seasons originate here. Unlike Kathmandu, the weather in Manthali allows flights in the early morning. Therefore, delays are fewer compared to Kathmandu.
Also, Manthali Airport is near Lukla airport, which makes it convenient. The Manthali flight takes only 20 minutes to get Lukla. Although the journey from Kathmandu by road is long, a lot of trekkers avail themselves of this option. Treks to Gokyo Ri (5,357 meters), Kalapatthar (5,545 meters), and Everest Base Camp all begin from Lukla. Therefore, this airport brings you to the heart of the Himalayas.
Manthali Airport sits in one of Ramechhap's small valleys. The area is surrounded by hills on all sides. There is a likelihood of fog in the early morning hours. Nevertheless, it clears quickly due to warmer local temperatures.
Its geographical location offers stable weather conditions compared to Kathmandu. Therefore, most flights take off as scheduled. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the peak seasons. In these seasons, hundreds of trekkers move every day.
In order to reach Manthali, tourists have to drive from Kathmandu. It is approximately 132 kilometers away. The journey takes between 4 and 6 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. Most people embark on this journey at midnight in order to catch early morning flights.
Private jeeps, buses, or shared vans can be hired from tour operators to get Manthali airport from Kathmandu. The roads pass through Dhulikhel and Khurkot to arrive at Ramechhap. The trip has good views of hills and villages. Though tiresome, it is an unavoidable aspect of the trek.
The flight from Manthali to Lukla is short and thrilling. The flight duration is only 20 minutes. The aircraft used are usually twin otters or Dorniers with small capacity. Because of the short runway at Lukla, only STOL aircraft operate on this route.
There are stunning mountain views on the flight. Numbur (6,958 meters), Gaurishankar (7,134 meters), and Karyolung (6,511 meters) are a few of the peaks you can see. The scenery becomes more spectacular as you approach Lukla.
In fact, basic but small facilities exist at Manthali Airport. A simple terminal with check-in counters is there. Waiting areas are small and sometimes congested. Public toilets and drinking water are available. No notable restaurants or shops are available, however.
Meanwhile, you need to carry snacks and water from Kathmandu. Electricity and mobile networks are available, although they may not always be operational. Airport staff assist with boarding. Flights like Tara Air, Summit Air, Sita Air, and Nepal Airlines operate here.
There are several guesthouses and lodges in Manthali town. They offer clean rooms and local meals. Dal bhat, momo, and noodles are basic Nepali meals that are available. Teahouses/guesthouses are basic but sufficient to stay overnight.
Actually, hotels in Manthali get booked during the main trekking seasons easily. So, pre-booking is preferable. Travelers stop overnight here in case of postponed flights. Though not luxurious, the stay is good and secure.
Kathmandu Airport is generally busy. During peak months, it is not able to handle all flights. Therefore, CAAN redirects Lukla flights to Manthali. It controls air traffic and prevents delays. Manthali becomes the effective alternative to domestic mountain flights.
Moreover, the diversion spreads air operations and develops local tourism in Ramechhap. Hence, both trekkers and locals reap benefits. It's a smart solution for Nepal's growing trekking industry.
Despite renovations, there are problems with Manthali Airport. The terminal building can't handle large quantities. During peak hours, it gets very congested. There's limited seating area and few amenities. On top of that, frequent power cuts can disrupt services.
Moreover, weather is a significant factor in flight timing from Manthali to Lukla. While it's an improvement over Kathmandu, conditions remain unpredictable. Planes are small, so luggage is limited. Delays and cancellations are still likely.
Begin your journey from Kathmandu early. Midnight flights are routine to arrive timely. Bring warm clothing and snacks with you. The morning is chilly and there are few shops. Be patient since check-in and boarding can be time-consuming.
Similarly, only pack necessities in your backpack. There are strict weight restrictions for Lukla flights. Have your passport and tickets available. Fly with a reputable operator for timely travel.
Several local airlines offer Manthali to Lukla flights. Tara Air and Summit Air are most frequent. Sita Air and Nepal Airlines also operate during the peak seasons. These airlines use STOL aircraft with short take-off capability.
Meanwhile, these aircraft take about 15 to 19 passengers each. The flights operate early at about 6:00 AM. Almost all are completed by 10:00 AM due to the weather. Morning is ideal for visibility and safety.
Apart from Manthali, not many other airports are linked to Lukla. Kathmandu is the first alternative. But its weather delays are common. Phaplu Airport (2,413 meters) and Salleri are others. From these places, tourists trek to Lukla in a matter of days.
Actually, these alternative routes provide more picturesque trekking but take longer. Manthali is still the quickest and most dependable connection for trekking seasons.
There is a basic medical post at Manthali Airport. In the event of serious emergencies, patients are taken to Kathmandu. Helicopter rescues are arranged for severe cases. Safety standards are low but within the requirements of CAAN. Safety briefings are provided by the airline staff before boarding.
Weather monitoring systems are gradually being upgraded. Yet, information is not always current. Trekking insurance is highly recommended before traveling.
Ramechhap District is ethnically diverse. Tamang, Magar, and Newar inhabit the area. Visitors are given local hospitality while staying overnight. Cultural practices remain unbroken and vibrant.
Traditional farming, weaving, and handicrafts are common occupations. Dashain and Tihar are observed with fervor. Meeting locals adds value to your visit.
The Manthali airport has boosted the local economy. Hotels, transport businesses, and restaurants now serve hundreds of visitors. In the same way, employment in the tourism and aviation industries has increased.
However, trash and traffic that is unmanaged are, however, growing worries in Ramechhap/Manthali. Sustainable solutions and residents' participation are required. Awareness of travelers also protects the region.
CAAN will modernize Manthali airport infrastructure. There is a vision of a new, larger terminal to handle more passengers. More sophisticated navigation equipment and real-time weather observation are on the cards. There will also be improved transport connections from Kathmandu.
Modernization is required with increasing demand. Authorities are keen to establish Manthali as a regular year-round destination for mountain flights. Trekkers and climbers will benefit from such upgrades.
Most travelers appreciate the faster flight schedules at Manthali. They also enjoy the scenic drive. Though tiring, the journey adds an adventurous start. The thrill of flying to Lukla from a remote airport excites many.
However, people also mention the lack of space and limited facilities in Manthali Airport. Still, the helpful staff and smoother operations make up for it. With preparation, the experience is positive and memorable.
Manthali Airport is now a part of the trekking circuit. It cannot be denied that it has made Lukla more convenient. Small but renders crucial services during high trekking seasons.
Flights from here to Lukla are predictable due to better weather and fewer crowds. Trekkers to Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes, or Island Peak are the most to benefit. More Himalayan destinations can be served by this airport with further development in the times to come.
In conclusion, Manthali Airport is more than just a local runway. It is a significant gateway to the best mountain experiences of Nepal.
