Due to Nepal's unique geographical setting and the diverse weather conditions it experiences, domestic flights within the country are often susceptible to delays and cancellations. Tribhuwan International Airport, lacking Instrumental Landing System technology, is particularly vulnerable to adverse weather phenomena such as heavy rain, dense fog, and strong winds. These conditions can disrupt flight schedules, compounded by Nepal's rugged topography, which poses additional challenges to air travel, especially during inclement weather.
As highlighted on our website's trekking season guide, the autumn months (November to September) offer the most favorable weather for trekking in Nepal, characterized by dry, clear, and stable conditions that result in fewer flight disruptions. However, during other seasons, weather unpredictability prevails. The monsoon season (June to August) is especially prone to flight cancellations due to heavy rainfall, high winds, and low visibility caused by patchy clouds. Similarly, thick fog during the winter months can lead to flight delays and cancellations.
To mitigate the impact of potential flight disruptions, it is strongly advised to allocate one or two extra days in your itinerary when traveling to Nepal. While road transportation may be a viable alternative in certain instances, flights to Lukla may offer limited flexibility due to its challenging location, necessitating adjustments to your schedule if time constraints are present.
(Note: Travel insurance is highly recommended. In the event of flight cancellation and a tight schedule to catch your return flight from Kathmandu, Himalaya Planet can facilitate helicopter charters at your service, although associated costs will need to be covered and later claimed through your insurance provider.)
