Flight cancellations in the Himalayas are as common as the peaks themselves, due to unpredictable nature of mountain weather. At Eve Holidays, we prioritize the safety and convenience of our guests, which is why we strongly advise allowing for at least three extra days at the end of your trek for contingencies. While we do our utmost to adhere to the itinerary, the adventure in the mountains may not always unfold as planned. Flexibility and patience are key virtues during such situations. Any extra services or extra days other than the trip itinerary and trip inclusion will be charged extra.
Before starting the Everest Base Camp Trek, it’s crucial to understand the alternatives available in case of flight cancellations from Ramechhap or Kathmandu to Lukla:
- Wait for Clear Weather: If your flight is canceled due to bad weather, you can opt to wait for improved conditions and proceed with the Everest Base Camp Trek as scheduled if you have enough days available at the end of the trek.
- Explore Alternative Treks: Consider the possibility of switching to another trek of similar duration and cost, such as Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Langtang Valley Trek, or Mardi Himal Trek. If you opt for a more expensive trip, you will be required to cover the price difference.
- Partial Trek Option: Alternatively, you can wait for a clear weather to fly to Lukla and commence the remaining days of Everest Base Camp Trek. This option allows you to do the partial trek without incurring extra expenses.
- Helicopter Transfer: For those unwilling to wait, the option of a Shared helicopter transfer to Lukla can be available paying for yourself and your trekking guide for a Helicopter.
- 18 hours Jeep drive to Surke and walk 2 hours to Lukla. This takes 2 full days. Drive to Salleri and stay overnight and continue the Jeep drive again next day to Surke and then walk 2 hours to Lukla
In the event of flight cancellations or delays from Lukla to Kathmandu or Ramechhap after completing the trek, the following options are available:
- Helicopter Flight : Get a shared Helicopter flight to Kathmandu paying for an helicopter cost.
- Walk for 2 hours from Lukla to Surke and get a Jeep to Kathmandu with a overnight stay on the way in Salleri and continue Jeep drive again next morning. It takes 2 days to Kathmandu. (18 hours Jeep drive)
- Wait for Clear Weather: If you have spare days before your international departure, waiting in Lukla until the weather improves and regular flights resume is also an option.
It’s important to note that in extreme weather conditions where helicopters are unable to operate or if travelers haven’t allocated extra contingency days, there is a risk of missing international flights. Therefore, thorough planning and flexibility are essential for a successful and stress-free Everest Base Camp Trek experience.
At Eve Holidays, we are committed to ensuring that our guests are well-prepared and supported throughout their journey, regardless of any unforeseen challenges that may arise. With careful consideration and contingency planning, your adventure in the Himalayas will be both safe and unforgettable.