Phaplu is a gateway village in the lower Solu Khumbu, serving as the starting off point for a number of treks. It also has one of the only domestic airports in the region. There are a number of short treks nearby, such as Pikey Peak, and you can also trek from her to the upper Everest region.

Flying from Kathmandu to Phaplu (30 minutes)

Phaplu is a short, 30-minute flight from Kathmandu and is your best option if you're short on time. Flights to Phaplu are not always reliable, however, and are often delayed or canceled during the monsoon season (June to early September), especially on the leg from Kathmandu to Phaplu where you're flying into the mountains and require clear weather (flying back to Kathmandu is much less weather-dependent). To maximize your chance of getting into Phaplu, it's best to take an early morning flight when the weather is often best.

Flight to Phaplu go out on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. 

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Driving from Kathmandu to Phaplu (7-8 hours)

Driving to Phaplu is more affordable but takes significantly more time. It's a great way, however, to see some of the countryside along the way. During the monsoon, when fights out of Phaplu are often delayed, it's also a more reliable choice for transport to ensure you make your flight back in Kathmandu.

The road conditions between Kathmandu and Phaplu are rough, however, and you'll be on bumpy dirt roads for a portion of the way. The actual distance isn't that far but the average speed in the mountains and foothills in Nepal is around 30-40 km/hr.

Treks & Tours that go through Phaplu

There are a number of great short treks that start and end in Phaplu. We'll list a few of our favorites, below:

For trekking itinerary ideas that connect Phaplu to the Everest region, have a look at this in-depth overview of off-the-beaten-path Everest trekking options