Day 1: Kathmandu Arrival
Upon our arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, a Himalayan Guides representative will warmly welcome us and escort us to our hotel. We’ll check in and rest for the night in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Kathmandu Exploration and Trek Preparation
After breakfast, we embark on a guided tour of Kathmandu’s historical and spiritual landmarks, all UNESCO World Heritage sites. Our tour includes visits to Durbar Square, the sacred Pashupatinath Hindu temple, the iconic ‘Monkey Temple’ (Swayambhunath), and the impressive Bouddhanath Buddhist stupa. In the afternoon, we’ll have our trekking equipment checked by our climbing leader, meet our fellow adventurers, and have a trip briefing at Himalayan Guides’ office. Another overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Day 3: Fly to Lukla, Trek to Phakding
We embark on a breathtaking 40-minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (9,186ft). Lukla serves as the starting point for our trek, and upon arrival, we’ll meet our crew and organize our gear. Our trek begins with a gentle descent to Cheplung village, offering views of the sacred Mt. Khumbila (18,900ft), never before climbed. We continue our descent until we reach Phakding, where we’ll spend the night.
Day 4: Phakding to Namche Bazaar
Today’s trek takes us through a lush pine forest as we follow the trail north along the Benkar valley. We’ll cross the Dudh Koshi River and pass through Monjo, the gateway to Everest National Park. After crossing a suspension bridge, we’ll trek alongside the Dudh Koshi and Bhote Koshi rivers. A steep climb will lead us to the heart of Sherpa culture, Namche Bazaar, where we may catch a glimpse of Mt. Everest and Mt. Lhotse if the weather permits. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
Day 5: Acclimatization Day - Namche Bazaar
Namche Bazaar offers plenty of attractions to explore, including government offices, ATMs, Internet cafes, shops, restaurants, and a vibrant market. Our guides will help us discover the charm of Namche Bazaar, and for those interested, there’s an option to hike to Sagarmatha National Park for sunrise views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Kongde, and more. Alternatively, we can take a day hike to Khumjung village to experience traditional Sherpa life and visit the Khumjung Hillary School. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
Day 6: Namche Bazaar to Phortse Thanga
We ascend Khumjung hill and then descend toward the Dudh Koshi valley. Our guide will choose the best trail as we head north, passing by a chorten on the ridge top and the birthplace of a revered Lama from Tibet. After a series of steep switchbacks, we reach the Dush Koshi River and stay overnight in Phortse Thanga, near the river.
Day 7: Phortse Thanga to Machhermo
Today’s trek begins with an uphill climb through a rhododendron forest, passing a waterfall on our way to Tongba Village. We continue through Dole, Labarma, and Luza villages, all the while walking alongside the Dudh Koshi River. We eventually reach Machhermo, with its stunning surroundings and views. Overnight in Machhermo.
Day 8: Machhermo to Gokyo
Our day starts with a climb to a ridge offering excellent views of Kangtaiga and Cho Oyu. The valley widens as we trek through Phangkha, then continue past the first lake, Longpongo, to reach the second lake, Taboche Tsho. Gokyo village stands by the third lake, Dudh Pokhari, with Cho-Oyu Mountain in the backdrop. We’ll explore around Dudh Pokhari after lunch. Overnight in Gokyo.
Day 9: Gokyo Valley Acclimatization - Optional Hike to Gokyo Ri
Today, we have the option to hike to Gokyo Ri in the morning, providing fantastic views of the Khumbu region, including Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. We’ll also visit the fourth lake, Thonak Tsho, and, if time and energy permit, the fifth lake, Ngozumba Tsho, for stunning views of the Ngozumba glacier. Overnight in Gokyo.
Day 10: Gokyo to Thagnak
For those who didn’t climb Gokyo Ri earlier, we have an opportunity today. The trail to the top of Gokyo Ri offers breathtaking panoramas of surrounding peaks. We then trek through the Ngazumpa Glacier and reach Thagnak, a short hike preparing us for upcoming challenges. Overnight in Thagnak.
Day 11: Thagnak to Cho La Pass to Dzongla
Today, we face one of the toughest segments of our trek, the Cho La pass. While not extremely difficult, it involves steep terrain and a glacier crossing on the eastern side, so caution is essential. The trail climbs through a ravine and rocky terrain, and after passing through crevasses, we reach Dzongla Village, offering great views of Cholatse, Ama Dablam, and other peaks. Overnight in Dzongla.
Day 12: Dzongla to Lobuche
A short trek allows us to relax and savor the breathtaking surroundings. We descend from Dzongla, enjoying views of Lobuche Peak, and continue through a grassy trail. The trail follows a wide river bed before reaching Lobuche, where we’ll rest and prepare for the next day’s long trek. Overnight in Lobuche.
Day 13: Lobuche to Gorak Shep, Visit Everest Base Camp
We head toward Everest Base Camp via Gorak Shep Lake. Along the way, we’ll pass the Indian army mountaineers’ memorials and navigate through rocky terrain, moraines, and streams. Upon reaching Everest Base Camp, we’ll see colorful mountaineers’ tents set against the backdrop of Nuptse, Khumbuste, and Pumori. Afterward, we return to Gorak Shep for a night’s rest. Consider visiting Kala Patthar for a stunning sunset view today, coordinated with your guide.
Day 14: Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar to Pheriche
We prepare for an early morning ascent to Kala Patthar to witness a breathtaking 360-degree view of Mt. Everest and surrounding peaks. We’ll capture the spectacular scenery and then return to Lobuche for the night. Those visiting Everest Base Camp today will have an early start and reunite with the Kala Patthar group for lunch in Gorak Shep. Later, we descend to Pheriche for the night.
Day 15: Pheriche to Namche Bazaar
Our trek takes us downhill through rhododendron and juniper forests, crossing a bridge adorned with prayer flags over the Dudh Koshi River. We’ll encounter colorful pheasants and mountain goats as we descend through winding trails to Sansa. From here, enjoy views of Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Nuptse mountains before reaching Namche Bazaar. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
Day 16: Namche Bazaar to Lukla
The trail descends steeply, so we’ll navigate carefully over rocky terrain and cross suspension bridges over the rushing Dudh Koshi and its tributaries. As we reach Lukla, we’ll reflect on our trekking experiences. Overnight in Lukla.
Day 17: Fly to Kathmandu
We catch an early morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu. After arriving in Kathmandu, we have the option to rest or explore the city for souvenirs or sightseeing. Our guides can assist with shopping or additional sightseeing. In the evening, we’ll have a farewell dinner to celebrate the successful completion of our journey. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 18: Departure from Kathmandu
It’s time to bid farewell to Nepal as we prepare for our departure.
