Both Lukla and Namche Bazaar are essential stops on the Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek, as well as many other treks in the Everest region. Although the two towns are only 8 miles (13 kilometers) apart, in the mountainous terrain of the area, this number doesn't accurately reflect the journey between them. Read on to find out more about getting from Lukla to Namche Bazaar.
On Foot
Duration: 2 days of trekking
While the trek from Lukla to Namche Bazaar can be done in one long day, it's much more comfortable and common to spread it over two. Most trekkers arrive in Lukla from Kathmandu on a morning flight and start their trek shortly after. The trail is steadily uphill, and follows the Dudh Kosi River for much of the way. The first night of the EBC trek is often spent in Phakding.
On day two, trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar. This is quite a challenging walk, as the incline is steep. But, highlights include the high Hillary Suspension Bridge, and the first glimpse of Everest from a clearing in the wooded trail. Namche is a common place to rest for a full day in order to help with acclimatization, and there are a few things to see and do in the town. Find out about them here: 5 Things to Do During Your Acclimatization Stop in Namche Bazaar.
By Helicopter
Duration: A few minutes, as part of a longer tour
While you can't just use a helicopter to get from Lukla to Namche Bazaar, helicopter tours from Kathmandu to Everest can transport you between the two places. More accurately, they can take you to a landing pad in an open area above Namche Bazaar. This is not a standard means of transportation, but part of helicopter day tours, or luxury heli-trekking tours (such as the Luxury Everest Heli Trek - 4 Days). These tours potentially save you time and a lot of physical exertion, while still allowing you to see some of the most beautiful mountain scenery in Nepal.
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