How to Reach Namche Bazaar from Kathmandu: A Complete Guide

Either way, Namche Bazaar is a stop you can’t skip. This beautiful little Sherpa village sits high in the Himalayas and is the perfect place to take a rest and see some of the best views you will ever see. 

Since, there is no direct road to Namche, every traveller must have to walk, drive or fly to get there. Let’s break down all the ways you can make this exciting journey from Kathmandu to Namche Bazaar.

By Air and on Foot

Duration: 30-minute flight + 2 days of trekking

This is the most preferred and popular route for most trekkers heading to Everest Base Camp. You should take a short 30-40 min flights from Kathmandu or from Manthali during the peak trekking seasons to Lukla. 

• Day 1: Trek from Lukla to Phakding. It takes around 3-4 hours. This is quite an easy and short walk to start your journey. 
• Day 2: The hike from Phakding to Namche Bazaar will take around 6-7 hours. This day is more challenging, with lots of uphill climbing. But the view includes the first glimpse of Mount Everest which is totally worth it. 

Note: Weather of Lukla can’t be predicted, and flights often get delayed. So, it’s a good idea to keep 1-2 extra days in your plan. 

By Road and on Foot

Duration: 6–8 days

If you want to trek and enjoy the mesmerizing views and encounter the beauty of Nepal, then trekking can be the best option. You can skip the flight and take a route by road on foot. You can see some of the most rural and beautiful villages like: Cheplung, Thado Koshi, Ghat, Phakding, Toktok, Monjo, Jorsale and many more. 

1. Drive from Kathmandu to Jiri or Phaplu 

You can also drive from Kathmandu to either Jiri or Phaplu. The drive to Jiri takes around 8 to 10 hours by jeep. Phaplu is a bit shorter and more comfortable, and takes around 6 to 7 hours. It’s a shorter and comfortable alternative.

• Jiri: About 8–10 hours by jeep.
• Phaplu: Shorter, more comfortable and takes 6-7 hours to reach. 

2. Trek to Lukla and then Namche Bazaar

If you start your trek from Phaplu, the trail is less than Jiri. Once you get to Lukla, you will be on the main trail and will trek for 2 more days to get to Namche Bazaar.

• From Jiri, the 5-day trek to Lukla is accomplished.
• From Phaplu, it is around 3 days.
• After reaching Lukla, you’ll join the classic route and trek for 2 more days to reach Namche.

This Jiri trek is less busy and peaceful. This is also known as the Pioneers’ Route because it was a path walked by travelers who trekked to Mount Everest when Lukla airport did not exist. Walking on this route enables you to experience the history and a chance to enjoy the trekking process at a slower pace and more original rhythm.

By Helicopter

Duration: About 1 hour

For those who want to save time and energy, taking a helicopter ride from Kathmandu to the Everest region is a fantastic (but expensive) option.

This alternative is best for the tourists who want to save time, energy and effort. Helicopter ride from Kathmandu to the Everest region is faster, give you the views you are looking for but is a slighter costly. 

• Most helicopters fly to Lukla, but you can request the pilot to land at Namche Bazaar nearby helipad if you are on a private charter helicopter. 
• Helicopter rides offer stunning aerial views of the Himalayas and can be part of luxury heli-trekking tours that combine flying with short hikes.

Tours with helicopter are the best idea for: 

1. Tourists who are on a short vacation and have a tight schedule. 
2. People who want to avoid long treks and don’t want the risk of flight cancellation. 
3. Best for tourists who are looking for unique experiences. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I drive directly to Namche Bazaar?

No, you can’t drive directly to Namche Bazaar since there isn’t a direct road. There is trekking involved in each route.

Is the Lukla flight safe?

Lukla airport is reputed to be the most dangerous airport in the world. Even though the airport at Lukla has a short runway, most of the flights are operated safely. Delays due to bad weather are however common here, and hence always plan additional days in advance. 

What is the cheapest method of reaching Namche Bazaar?

The cheapest way is travelling by jeep to Phaplu and trekking to Namche from Phaplu. It takes longer than flying and it is cheaper too.

How hard is the trek to Namche from Lukla?

It is a moderate to hard trek, especially from Lukla to Namche Bazaar. It is considered to be done with good physical fitness.

Are first-time trekkers qualified to do this trek?

Yes, many beginners do this trek successfully. But you have to make sure that you trek as per your own pace and give enough time to acclimatise yourself to the altitude.

Final Thoughts

Wherever you choose to go, flying above the clouds or following the paths of other travellers who have strayed, Namche Bazaar is always worth the fight and the sweat. The view of culture, and the rush of adrenalin at being this close to Mt Everest makes it the crown jewel of any adventurer’s crown.

Ready to start? Choose your route and head to the heart of the Himalayas with us.