Mount Everest, the world's highest peak, is located in the Himalayas on the border between Nepal and Tibet. Kathmandu, Nepal's capital, serves as the main gateway for travelers heading to Everest. Many adventurers and trekkers start their journey here to explore the Everest region.

This guide will help you understand the main travel options from Kathmandu to Mount Everest. You will learn about flights, road travel, and trekking routes, along with practical advice to plan your trip confidently and safely.

Getting from Kathmandu to Mount Everest – Main Options

Flight

Flying is the fastest and most popular way to reach the Everest region from Kathmandu. Small aircraft connect Kathmandu to Lukla, the main starting point for Everest treks.

• Flights depart from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu to Lukla Airport, which is 138 km east of Kathmandu. The flight takes about 30 to 40 minutes, offering spectacular mountain views.

• Tickets cost between NPR 15,000 to NPR 25,000 one-way, depending on the airline and season. Flights operate mainly in the morning due to weather constraints.

• Flights can be delayed or canceled due to fog, strong winds, or monsoon rains, especially from June to September. Booking flexible tickets is advisable.

• Lukla Airport is small and busy, with a short runway and limited facilities. Expect crowds during peak trekking seasons in spring and autumn.

• From Lukla, trekkers begin the journey on foot towards Everest Base Camp, which takes about 8 to 14 days depending on pace and acclimatization.

Bus

There is no direct bus service from Kathmandu to Mount Everest due to the mountainous terrain. However, buses can take you partway to the Everest region before trekking or flying.

• Local buses and tourist jeeps travel from Kathmandu to Jiri or Salleri, which are traditional starting points for trekking to Everest Base Camp by road and foot.

• The bus journey to Jiri takes about 8 to 10 hours over rough roads, covering approximately 190 km. Buses are crowded and less comfortable but budget-friendly.

• From Jiri or Salleri, trekking to Everest Base Camp takes around 14 to 18 days, allowing gradual acclimatization and a more traditional route.

• Road conditions can be poor, especially during monsoon season, with landslides and delays common. Travel early in the day to avoid night driving risks.

• Private jeeps offer a faster and more comfortable alternative to buses but are more expensive, costing around NPR 10,000 to NPR 15,000 for the trip to Jiri or Salleri.

Car / Self-Drive

Self-driving from Kathmandu to the Everest region is challenging due to difficult mountain roads and limited infrastructure. It is recommended only for experienced drivers.

• The route to Jiri or Salleri via the Araniko Highway and mountain roads covers about 190 to 230 km and can take 8 to 12 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• Roads are narrow, winding, and often unpaved beyond major towns. Landslides and fog can cause delays, especially during monsoon season.

• Fuel stations are limited in remote areas, so carry extra fuel and check vehicle condition before starting the journey.

• Parking and vehicle security in Kathmandu and Lukla are limited; consider leaving your vehicle in secure parking and using local transport for trekking.

• Hiring a local driver familiar with mountain roads is a safer option than self-driving for most travelers.

Trekking

Trekking is the most immersive way to reach Mount Everest Base Camp. It requires physical fitness and proper preparation but offers stunning mountain experiences.

• The classic trek starts from Lukla and takes 8 to 14 days to reach Everest Base Camp, covering about 130 km round trip with gradual altitude gain.

• Permits such as the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and TIMS card are mandatory and can be arranged in Kathmandu or Lukla.

• Accommodation is available in teahouses along the trail, offering basic food and lodging. Carry cash as ATMs are unavailable on the route.

• Altitude sickness is a risk; proper acclimatization days and hydration are essential for a safe trek.

• Hiring a guide or porter is recommended for navigation, safety, and supporting local communities.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers heading from Kathmandu to Mount Everest Base Camp. It covers key steps to ensure a smooth and safe journey.

• Book a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla well in advance, especially during peak seasons (March-May and September-November), to secure your seat and flexible timings.

• Arrange all necessary permits in Kathmandu before departure, including the Sagarmatha National Park permit and TIMS card, to avoid delays at Lukla.

• Pack appropriate trekking gear, including warm clothing, sturdy boots, and sun protection, as weather can change rapidly in the mountains.

• Plan your itinerary with rest days for acclimatization at Namche Bazaar or Dingboche to reduce altitude sickness risks.

• Carry sufficient cash in small denominations for teahouse payments and emergencies, as electronic payments are not accepted on the trail.

• Use local guides or porters to assist with navigation and carrying heavy luggage, which enhances safety and supports the local economy.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always drink bottled or boiled water during the trek to avoid waterborne illnesses common in remote areas of Nepal.

• Book flights early in the morning from Kathmandu to Lukla as afternoon flights are often canceled due to weather.

• Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Pathao or Tootle in Kathmandu for safe and reliable airport transfers.

• Carry a basic first aid kit including altitude sickness medication, as medical facilities are limited along the trek.

• Keep your luggage light and waterproof, as rain and snow can occur unexpectedly, especially during monsoon and winter seasons.

• Respect local customs and environment by minimizing plastic waste and supporting community-run lodges and shops.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Kathmandu to Mount Everest is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer clear skies and moderate temperatures.

Monsoon season (June to September) brings heavy rain, landslides, and flight cancellations. Winter (December to February) is cold with snow, making trekking more difficult and some routes inaccessible.

• Avoid traveling during major Nepali festivals like Dashain and Tihar, as transport and accommodation become crowded and expensive.

• Morning flights from Kathmandu to Lukla have the highest chance of operating on time due to better weather conditions.

• Afternoon and evening travel is not recommended because mountain weather can change rapidly, increasing risks.

• Plan extra buffer days in your itinerary to accommodate possible flight delays or road closures.

Arrival at Mount Everest & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Lukla Airport, you will experience a small, bustling airstrip surrounded by high mountains. Lukla serves as the gateway to the Everest region and the starting point for most treks.

Local transport options are limited; most travelers proceed on foot or hire porters and guides. Accommodation in Lukla includes basic guesthouses and teahouses with simple meals. Prepaid taxis are not available here, so plan accordingly.

In the Everest region, popular places to stay include Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Dingboche, each offering progressively higher altitude stops. Expect limited internet and electricity, so prepare for a rustic experience.

At the end of your trek, you will return to Lukla for the flight back to Kathmandu. It is advisable to book return flights early and have flexible plans to manage weather-related changes.

Conclusion

Flying from Kathmandu to Lukla is the most efficient and popular way to reach Mount Everest Base Camp quickly. It saves time and allows you to start trekking from an accessible point in the Himalayas. However, weather can affect flights, so flexibility is key.

For those seeking a traditional and adventurous route, traveling by road to Jiri or Salleri followed by trekking offers a rewarding experience but requires more time and preparation. Always plan your permits, gear, and acclimatization carefully. With the right preparation and knowledge, you can confidently embark on this unforgettable journey to the roof of the world.