Weather conditions at high altitudes can change suddenly, which frequently results in changes in intended itineraries. Flights between Kathmandu and Lukla are particularly prone to these delays which have the potential to vary the itinerary of all departures in the Everest region. Our plans in case of bad weather from Kathmandu to Lukla are as follows:

1. On day 1:

If this flight is canceled, we will return to our hotel in Kathmandu for an additional night.

2. On day 2:

If the flight is canceled but helicopters are available and permitted to fly to Lukla we will be using charter a helicopter to transport the group. Travelers will need to use their emergency fund to cover the cost of this chartered helicopter. The exact cost will depend on how many travelers are in your group and could be up to US$500. It is common practice for the helicopter company to charge varying prices, so you may pay different amounts to others on the flight. If we reach Lukla on Day 3 by either fixed-wing aircraft or helicopter we will then follow the same itinerary to Everest Base Camp but descend over one less day to take our return flight from Lukla on Day 14.

3. On day 4:

If no flights (either plane or helicopter) are possible on the morning of day 3, then on day 4 we will travel by road to Phaplu (approximately 9 hours’ drive by private vehicle) and then trek to Tengboche on the Everest Base Camp route, via Lukla. While we will not be able to reach Gokyo Lakes on this altered itinerary, we should still have enough time to reach Everest Base Camp at a safe rate of ascent. 4. We also advise you to have a few extra days in Kathmandu at the end of your trip. As. return flights from Lukla are delayed due to weather conditions.