Lukla is a small town in the Khumbu region of Nepal, well known as the gateway to Mount Everest, the world's highest peak. Situated at an elevation of about 2,860 meters (9,383 feet), Lukla is where many trekkers and climbers begin their journey into the Everest region, making it one of the most popular starting points for expeditions and treks in the Himalayas.
The main highlight of Lukla is the Tenzing-Hillary Airport, named after Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay, the first climbers confirmed to have reached the summit of Mount Everest. This airport is renowned for its short and narrow runway, high altitude, and the challenging conditions surrounding its location, making it one of the most dangerous airports in the world. Despite the risks, it serves as a critical hub for people and supplies moving in and out of the region. 
Lukla offers a range of accommodations, restaurants, and shops catering to tourists and trekkers. These establishments provide necessary supplies, food, and lodging for those embarking on their journey to Everest Base Camp and other high-altitude treks in the area. The town also has a few attractions of its own, including monasteries and viewpoints, but its primary function remains as a transit point for trekkers and climbers.
The area around Lukla is rich in natural beauty and cultural significance. The trails from Lukla lead through the Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering stunning views of the Himalayas and insights into the culture of the Sherpa people, who are indigenous to the region. Trekkers can witness the Sherpas unique way of life, their traditions, and their incredible mountaineering skills.
Access to Lukla is primarily by air, with regular flights from Kathmandu, weather permitting. The flights offer breathtaking views of the Himalayas and are an adventure in themselves. Alternatively, for those seeking an even greater challenge or wishing to acclimatize more gradually, trekking to Lukla from lower elevations is also an option, though it adds several days to the journey.
Lukla is not just a stopover; its the threshold to the high Himalayas, offering a mix of excitement, beauty, and the initial test of altitude for adventurers looking to explore the roof of the world.