The Everest region has arguably the most dramatic scenery in the world and with flights making the area easily accessible, it is possible to reach the heart of the mountains within a few days. This introductory trek, staying in comfortable lodges, offers sensational mountain views and insight into the lives of the local Sherpa people. This itinerary is provided as an extension out of Kathmandu, from where we fly you to Lukla, the trek starting point. For the first two days, trek slowly to aid acclimatization and head north up the Dudh Kosi Valley. Our route takes us through beautiful tracts of pine and rhododendron forest, with the peaks of Thamserku and Kusum Kanguru soaring above the trail. It is a steep ascent to Namche Bazaar (3446m), the capital of the famous Khumbu Sherpas, where we are again rewarded with spectacular mountain vistas.
Day 1: Fly From Kathmandu to Lukla and Trek to Phakding (B/L/D)
Spectacular mountain flight to Lukla, on the flight we watch the rugged foothills give way to the snowline of the Himalaya; many of the world's highest mountains, including Kanchenjunga, Lhotse and Makalu. Once we are in Lukla we pick up our porters with bags and start the trek, follow the deep valley of the Dudh Khosi and trek to Phakding. (2-3 hrs, 2,650m) Overnight in local lodge with basic amenities.
Day 2: Phakding – Namche Bazaar (B/L/D)
We climb out of the pleasant pine forest through a series of “switchbacks” and catch glimpses of Mount Everest if the sky is clear. We continue trekking along the banks of the Dudh Kosi, crossing this majestic river many times on exciting suspension bridges laden with prayer flags. After entering Sagamartha National Park, the trail climbs steeply with breathtaking views. Namche Bazaar at 3,450m is the most important cultural and economic center in the area. Overnight in local lodge with basic amenities.
Day 3: In Namche Bazaar (B/L/D)
We visit the National Park visitor center, observe the daily rituals of Sherpa life or wander for photographs. We take the day off to allow our bodies to adjust before ascending to higher altitudes. Hike up the hill behind Namche to the airstrip at Syangboche. Overnights in a local lodge with basic amenities.
Day 4: Namche – Tengboche (B/L/D)
After breakfast, get on the trail and descend to the Dudh Koshi River. Continue through conifer and Rhododendron forests to Tengboche. The Tengboche Monastery is situated on a ridge and is surrounded by mountains including Thamserku, Kangtenga and Ama Dablam. Total trekking time is about 3-4 hours. Overnights in local lodge with basic amenities. Tengboche.
Day 5: Tengboche Monastery (B/L/D)
Today on the trail, we may see the beautiful Impeyan pheasant-the national bird of Nepal and eagles and other soaring raptors, as well as musk deer and Himalayan Thar, a species of goat. Tengboche is the most sacred monastery of the Sherpas. We will have spectacular views of some of the world's highest mountains including Ama Dablam, Nuptse, Lhotse, Tamserku and Kantega. Accommodation in a local lodge with basic amenities.
Day 6: Tengboche – Thamee (B/L/D)
Thame is a village in Khumbu at the end of the old Tibetan trade route from Tingri via Nangpa La. We pass some absolutely beautiful Buddhist rock art on the way to Thamee.
Day 7: Khumjung (B/L/D)
Khumjung is a pleasant village situated on the southern slopes of Khumbila and dominated by the beautiful mountain of Ama Dablam (6812m). There is plenty to see or do within the village, including a visit to the Everest Bakery, the village temple and the Sir Edmund Hillary School.
Day 8: Trek to Monjo (B/L/D)
It takes about six hours from Thame to Monjo. On the trail, we come across few Sherpa settlements and you will meet friendly Sherpa people. Trekking this day is little bit easier in comparison to other days. Accommodation in a local lodge with basic amenities.
Day 9: Trek to Lukla B/L/D
Trek from Monjo to Lukla takes about four and half hours. This day the trail gradually descends and ascends as well. You cross the Dudh Koshi River over suspension bridges. Accommodation in a local lodge with basic amenities.
Day 10: Fly to Kathmandu (B)
Bid farewell to your Sherpa crews and fly to Kathmandu. Upon arrival at Kathmandu airport, meet office executive and transfer to hotel or city center. No accommodation tonight.
Tier priced (per person in US$) based on number of participants and type of hotels.
7-9 members: 1170
4-6 members: 1325
2-3 members: 1420
Single traveller: 1840
Single room supplement: 125
Single person cost includes single room supplements
To offer the lowest possible cost, our trips are tier priced according to the number of participants or members on the trip. Costs are based on double occupancy. If you wish to have a single room, you must pay the single supplement fee. If you are willing to share accommodations, we will match you with a roommate if one is available. If we cannot match you with a roommate, the single supplement will apply. Single passenger cost includes single room supplement.
Private Journeys for independent travel with your own dates.
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In order for them to keep the cost at a minimum, and the desire to share the enjoyment with like-minded people, they request us to find other people who may also be interested in the proposed trip.
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