Taking a cultural alternative trail to the Everest area. It's the culturally sensitive way to get to Lukla and Kala Pattar.
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Bad weather postponing plane landings and take-offs at Lukla is common. Plan in extra time for this.
Some of the more interesting lodges are just down from Lukla on the main trail to Kala Pattar and Namche.
Lukla Air Strip in Nepal
Most trekkers fly to Lukla, but I recommend the Jiri Trail. Sure, it takes 10 or more extra days, one way, but it's real Nepal. It's cultural Nepal. It's a far different experience than flying to Lukla. And the Jiri Trail has been famous for years.
The photo above is of the airport at Lukla - the one perched on the side of a mountain which local watch planes swooping into on the mountain air currents. It's been improved from the photo - there is some pavement on it now.
Still, you may find trekking the trail in from Jiri a far more tranquil experience. Especially if you don't know exactly how much experience your pilot possesses.
The Jiri Trail is the old way of entering the area above Namche Bazaar and to Kala Pattar.
If you travel in by walking the Jiri Trail, you'll be taking the route originally taken by Sir Edmund Hillary and his crew when they went to Everest. It's easier now, due to the trekking lodges you'll be able to stay in.
But the fact is, when I've been on this trail there are very few other Westerners on it. The lodges are mostly empty. Most people fly to Lukla these day. They look at it as a time-saver.
No matter where you go in Nepal, you will have a good time. The entire Everest region is great. Above Namche, there is high, rocky terrain - real Himalaya high country.
Down below Lukla is some of the best of the Nepali mountain culture. We discovered it in Himalaya Moon, the book already mentioned. Either way, you win. And you may just want to enjoy both!