Mt. Everest Base Camp & Gokyo Lakes Trek Wellness Tour

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by our representative, who will accompany you to your hotel. There, your trek leader will provide a detailed briefing about the trek, discuss the itinerary and safety measures, and answer any questions. You’ll have free time to explore Kathmandu’s cultural attractions before embarking on the trek. Our team will be available to assist with any further preparations. Prepare for an unforgettable adventure in the Himalayas filled with natural beauty and Sherpa hospitality.

On this day, you will have a packed schedule filled with cultural exploration and travel preparations. The morning will begin with a walking tour of Ason, an old spice market located in Kathmandu. This vibrant market is known for its lively atmosphere and offers a glimpse into the local trade and traditional way of life. As you navigate through the narrow lanes, you will be surrounded by the captivating sights, sounds, and aromas of the market, including a colourful display of spices, fresh produce, and various products.

Later in the afternoon, you will drive to Manthali, located outside Kathmandu. This drive will take you to the airport, where you will fly to Lukla the following day. Manthali serves as the gateway to the Everest region, and it is here that you will embark on your exciting flight to Lukla, a small town nestled amidst the breathtaking Himalayas.

Note: You can pay an extra $500 for a seat on a direct helicopter flight from Kathmandu.

After your flight to Lukla at an elevation of 2,800m, you will officially begin your trekking adventure in the Everest region. The duration of your first day’s trek will depend on the time of your flight’s arrival.

If your flight lands in the morning, you will have ample time to trek towards the village of Monjo. This trek is estimated to take approximately 5 hours. Monjo is a picturesque village located at an altitude of around 2,835m and serves as the gateway to Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. As you trek, you’ll be treated to stunning mountain views, quaint villages, and lush landscapes.
On the other hand, if your flight arrives later in the day, it may not allow enough time to reach Monjo before nightfall. In this case, you will stay overnight in the village of Phakding, which is approximately a 3-hour trek from Lukla. Phakding, situated at around 2,610m, offers delightful views of the surrounding mountains and is a popular resting spot for trekkers.

Monjo and Phakding boast comfortable accommodations and dining options for trekkers, allowing you to rest, rejuvenate, and prepare for the upcoming days of trekking.

Whichever destination you reach on the first day, Monjo or Phakding, it will begin your extraordinary journey into the Himalayas and provide a taste of the stunning natural beauty and warm Sherpa hospitality that await you throughout your trek.

On this day of your trek, you will embark on a scenic route following the Dudh Koshi River, crossing a suspension bridge over the Kyashar Khola and passing through Jorsalle, the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park. The trekking duration for this day is approximately 3-4 hours, encompassing a variety of terrains and landscapes.

The trek begins with a combination of flat sections, some short steep ascents, and descents as you navigate the trail by the side of the Dudh Koshi River. You’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the mountains, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls along the way. The trail offers an immersive experience of the natural beauty of the region.

After about an hour of trekking, you will encounter a high-suspension bridge. This marks a significant point in your journey, and you’ll have the opportunity to cross this bridge surrounded by awe-inspiring scenery.

Following the bridge, you will face a steep ascent that lasts approximately 2 hours, leading you to the renowned town of Namche Bazaar. This vibrant Sherpa market town is situated at an altitude of 3,441 meters and serves as the commercial and cultural hub of the Everest region.

Upon reaching Namche Bazaar, you will find comfortable lodge accommodations at the town’s top. Here, you can rest, recover, and acclimatize to the increasing altitude. Namche Bazaar offers a variety of amenities, including internet cafes, shops, and restaurants, and provides an opportunity to explore the local Sherpa culture.

This day’s trek provides a taste of the rugged and beautiful terrain of the Everest region while gradually acclimatizing to the higher altitude. It sets the stage for further exploration and adventure in the days to come as you continue your journey towards the base camp of the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest.

Rising early in Namche Bazaar provides an excellent opportunity to witness breathtaking views of the region’s Mt. Everest and other majestic peaks. From various vantage points, such as the Everest View Hotel or the nearby viewpoints, you can take in the awe-inspiring panorama of the Himalayas. The sight of the world’s highest peak, Mt. Everest, along with neighbouring peaks like Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam, is truly spectacular and an unforgettable experience.
After enjoying the panoramic views, you can immerse yourself in the rich Sherpa culture and history by visiting the Sherpa museum and cultural centre in Namche Bazaar. Located within the lodge compound where you will be staying, this private museum provides a deeper understanding of the local Sherpa people, their traditions, and their connection to the mountains.

The museum exhibits artefacts, photographs, and information that shed light on Sherpa culture, mountaineering history, and the natural environment. It offers insights into the lives of legendary Sherpa climbers and the challenges they have faced in conquering the world’s highest peaks.

In addition to being a conservationist, the lodge owner is also a photographer and may have scenic posters and postcards available for purchase. These photographs capture the beauty of the Himalayan landscapes, including stunning mountain vistas, serene valleys, and cultural landmarks. It’s a beautiful opportunity to support local artisans and bring back a visual reminder of your incredible journey.
By exploring the museum, engaging with the lodge owner’s photographic work, and purchasing his scenic posters and postcards, you deepen your understanding of the region and contribute to the local economy and conservation initiatives.

Namche Bazaar offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and warm hospitality, making it a memorable destination to explore and learn about the Sherpa way of life as you continue your trekking adventure in the Everest region.

Trekking to the village of Thame offers an off-the-beaten-path experience away from the main route to Everest Base Camp. Throughout this approximately 5-hour trek, you will encounter fewer trekkers, allowing for a more serene and immersive mountain experience. The trail winds through small villages, offering glimpses of local culture, and passes through forested areas with captivating views of Mount Kongde, which towers on the opposite side of the valley.

Thame is a charming village situated at an altitude of approximately 3,800 meters. It is the hometown of several renowned Sherpa climbers, including Apa Sherpa. Apa Sherpa is a legendary figure in the mountaineering world, having conquered Mount Everest a record-breaking 22 times. The lodge you will be staying in is owned by Apa Sherpa himself.

Staying in Apa Sherpa’s Lodge provides a unique opportunity to engage with one of the most accomplished mountaineers in history. With a wealth of experience and knowledge, Apa Sherpa can share fascinating stories of his Everest expeditions and insights into Sherpa culture and the Himalayan region.

Thame is a picturesque village with traditional Sherpa houses and a tranquil atmosphere. You can explore the village, interact with the friendly locals, and experience their way of life firsthand. The surrounding landscapes offer stunning views of the snow-capped peaks and the peaceful valley.

This part of the trek allows for a deeper connection with the local communities and provides a glimpse into the Sherpa traditions and their close relationship with the mountains. It offers a respite from the busier sections of the Everest trail, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature and appreciate the beauty of the remote Himalayan landscapes.

Overall, trekking to Thame and staying in Apa Sherpa’s lodge will provide a memorable experience and an opportunity to learn from a mountaineering legend and support the local community.

After retracing our steps to the trail’s “fork,” we begin our ascent towards the Shyangboche airstrip. This trek section will offer picturesque views as we climb higher into the mountains. Once we reach the Shyangboche airstrip, we’ll take a break and have lunch, enjoying the stunning surroundings.

Following our stop, we continue our trek towards the village of Khumjung, located at 3,790 meters. On our way, we pass through Khunde village, which holds significance in the region. Khunde is home to a hospital established by Sir Edmund Hillary, the legendary mountaineer who, along with Tenzing Norgay, became the first to summit Mount Everest.

Visiting the hospital in Khunde village provides insight into the efforts made to provide medical care and support to the local Sherpa communities and trekkers in the region. It is a testament to Sir Edmund Hillary’s dedication and commitment to the well-being of the people living in the Everest area.

Continuing our journey, we arrive at Khumjung village, nestled below the majestic Khumbila mountain, considered the protector deity of the area. At an altitude of 3,790 meters, Khumjung village offers a glimpse into the traditional Sherpa way of life and showcases the region’s beauty.

One of the highlights of Khumjung village is the school, also built by Sir Edmund Hillary, as part of his efforts to improve education in the region. The Khumjung School is an important institution that serves the local children and plays a crucial role in their education and future.

Exploring Khumjung village and its school presents an opportunity to understand the importance of education in the remote mountainous regions of Nepal and appreciate the enduring legacy left by Sir Edmund Hillary and his contributions to the local communities.

The trek from the Shyangboche airstrip to Khumjung typically takes around five hours. During this time, you will not only enjoy the trail’s natural beauty but also delve into the rich cultural and historical significance of the villages we pass through.

Our day at Khumjung begins with breathtaking views of Thamserku, Kantenga, and Ama Dablam – iconic peaks that grace the Everest region. This scenic panorama sets the tone for the day’s trek. We then embark on a reasonably strenuous ascent towards the Mong La pass, a captivating location perched on the spur of Mt. Khumbila, the revered protector deity of the area.

At Mong La, you’ll find an ancient Chorten, a religious monument that stands at the heart of the settlement. This peaceful spot offers tranquillity and provides a perfect vantage point to appreciate the grandeur of the surrounding snow-capped mountains and valleys. The views from Mong La are genuinely awe-inspiring.

After taking in the beauty of Mong La, we descend to Phortse Tenga, where we stop for a well-deserved lunch break. Following our meal, we face a steep ascent before the trail contours high above the valley. Along this stretch, we are treated to excellent views of Kantega, Thamserku, and the iconic Ama Dablam, whose distinct pyramid shape stands at an impressive 6,856 meters.

As we continue our trek, after about an hour’s walk from Phortse Bridge, we catch our first glimpses of Mount Cho Oyo, an imposing peak at 8,153 meters. Cho Oyo serves as an enticing backdrop at the head of the valley.

Beyond this point, we leave the tree line behind and venture further into the rugged terrain. Along the way, we encounter impressive waterfalls, adding to the dramatic scenery. The trail leads us to the yak herding settlements of Tongba (4,015m) and Gyele (4,050m), where the local culture and way of life come to life. These traditional communities offer a glimpse into the Himalayan nomadic lifestyle.
Our destination for the day is Dole, situated at an elevation of 4,000 meters. Nestled amidst the stunning Himalayan landscape, Dole provides a tranquil setting for relaxation and rejuvenation after trekking.

Keep your eyes peeled during the trek, as you may have the opportunity to spot some of the region’s unique wildlife. The Danfe Monal, Nepal’s national bird, may grace your path, along with Himalayan Tahr, a species of mountain goat, and the elusive musk deer.

Overall, this six-hour trek from Khumjung to Dole offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural encounters, and the thrill of venturing deeper into the alpine landscape of the Everest region.

Upon reaching Machermo, situated at 4,410 meters, our trek is challenging due to the increasing altitude. Though the day’s walk may be relatively short in distance, the higher elevation makes even slight inclines more demanding.

We ascend alongside the roaring Dudh Koshi River from the small Dole Valley. The terrain is not overly rugged, but the effects of altitude become evident, adding to the physical challenge.

As we enter the barren alpine region, the absence of vegetation contrasts with the pristine white peaks and vast blue skies. Only clusters of scrub juniper dot the landscape. After a few hours, we reach Luza, a waypoint along the trail.

Finally arriving at the lodge in Machermo, we find a cosy place to rest. From here, we can embark on an excursion to the base of the awe-inspiring peaks of Kyajo Ri (6,168 meters) and Machermo Peak (6,073 meters). These majestic summits serve as a captivating backdrop, showcasing the true grandeur of the Himalayas.

The excursion allows us to immerse ourselves in the remarkable alpine environment. We are surrounded by the rugged beauty of rocky terrain, contrasted with the snow-covered slopes and ridgelines of these towering peaks.

During our journey, it is essential to remember the principles of responsible tourism, respecting the delicate ecosystem and following established guidelines for wilderness preservation.

As we stand in awe of the magnificent landscape, we are reminded of the rich folklore associated with the region, including the tales of the Yeti, adding an air of mystery to the already captivating surroundings.

After our excursion, we retreat to the lodge in Machermo to rest and reflect on the extraordinary landscapes encountered. Tomorrow, we will continue our trek deeper into the Everest region, anticipating more incredible sights and unforgettable experiences.

Machermo holds a unique place in local folklore due to the alleged last sighting of the Yeti in 1974. According to the accounts of the local community, this legendary creature was said to have attacked and killed three yaks, as well as injured a brave Sherpa girl who courageously attempted to defend herself. This captivating tale adds an element of mystery and fascination to the already mesmerizing surroundings of Machermo.

After a day of trekking through the breathtaking alpine landscape and witnessing the majestic peaks that envelop us, we settle in for the night, contemplating the allure of the region and the intriguing local folklore. With eager anticipation, we prepare to continue our journey deeper into the Everest region, keen to uncover new exploration opportunities and create lasting memories.

Today’s trek takes us to Gokyo, situated at 4,794 meters. Along the trail, we are treated to magnificent views of Mount Kangtega, Thamserku, and Cho Oyu as we traverse the valley. The landscape expands further as we reach Phangna at 4,480 meters, a place where a tragic avalanche claimed the lives of 40 people in 1995 following heavy and untimely snowfall.

After a gentle walk, we descend to the river bank before ascending the terminal moraine of the Ngozumba Glacier. This climb is steep, but the trail levels out once we cross an iron bridge. Here, we pass by the first lake, Longpongo, situated at 4,690 meters, with its sparkling waters enchanting us. As we continue, we come across the second lake, Taboche Tsho, adorned with surging steam. The third lake lies a little further ahead, and it is in this vicinity that the settlement of Gokyo is located. With the majestic Mount Cho-Oyu in the backdrop, this junction offers a truly spectacular sight. The hike generally takes around 4-5 hours to complete.

In summary, today’s trek to Gokyo showcases stunning views of Mount Kangtega, Thamserku, and Cho Oyu. We pass through Phangna, witnessing the aftermath of a devastating avalanche, before ascending the steep terminal moraine of the Ngozumba Glacier. The trail then leads us past Longpongo and Taboche Tsho, finally arriving at the enchanting settlement of Gokyo, with Mount Cho-Oyu serving as an awe-inspiring backdrop. The entire hike typically takes around 4-5 hours.

Today, we embark on an early morning ascent to Gokyo Ri, standing at an elevation of 5,364 meters. Gokyo Ri offers one of the most breathtaking panoramas in the Khumbu region. The climb is relatively straightforward but steep, demanding some effort due to the high altitude. However, the rewards are well worth it.

From the summit of Gokyo Ri, we are treated to outstanding views of four peaks that exceed 8,000 meters in height: Mount Everest (8,848m), Cho-Oyo (8,153m), Lhotse (8,511m), and Makalu (8,481m). In addition to these towering giants, numerous other impressive peaks grace the skyline, including Gyachung Kang (7,922m) to the east of Mount Cho-Oyo, Cholatse (6,440m), Taboche (6,542m), and Kangchung (6,103m). The panoramic view also encompasses the stunning Gokyo Lakes, offering a unique perspective from above. Moreover, the massive Ngozumpa Glacier can be seen winding its way through the valley far below.

After soaking in the captivating vistas, we return to Gokyo for a late breakfast. From there, we retrace our steps, making our way down the valley towards the mouth of the glacier. Continuing our descent, we pass through Machhermo before reaching our destination for the day, Na, at 4,390 meters. Surprisingly, the return journey is relatively quick and smooth, typically taking around 4 hours of trekking time.

In summary, today’s itinerary includes an early morning climb to the summit of Gokyo Ri, where we are rewarded with panoramic views of Everest, Cho-Oyo, Lhotse, Makalu, and other majestic peaks. We descend to Gokyo for breakfast before returning to the glacier’s edge. From there, we continue our descent through Machhermo, eventually reaching Na. The entire trekking time for the day is approximately 4 hours.

Our journey today takes us to the less-explored village of Phortse, situated at an elevation of 3,542 meters. Unlike many trekkers who bypass this village, we deviate from the conventional route and retrace our steps to Phortse Tenka before embarking on a 45-minute climb to reach Phortse itself.

Phortse is a noteworthy location, as it serves as the site for winter ice climbing courses organized by the Khumbu Climbing School. 2019, an indoor climbing centre was inaugurated here, adding to the village’s mountaineering significance.
During the afternoon, we can explore the outskirts of Phortse. While walking around, watch for the elusive musk deer and the vibrant Impeyan Pheasants. The area’s diverse wildlife adds to its allure. And, of course, the stunning mountain views surrounding Phortse need no further mention as their dramatic beauty is apparent.

In summary, we break away from the usual path and make our way to the village of Phortse. This less-visited destination offers the chance to discover the winter ice climbing courses of the Khumbu Climbing School and explore the nearby outskirts, where musk deer and Impeyan Pheasants may be spotted. The awe-inspiring mountain vistas provide a magnificent backdrop to our experiences.

Today’s trek takes us along an exposed ridge and a path that offers stunning views but also demands caution. As we make our way, we might be fortunate enough to spot a Himalayan Tahr, a magnificent mountain goat, gracefully perched on the rocks above the trail. This encounter with the local wildlife adds to the excitement of the day.

Continuing our journey, we will trek to the main trail and gradually ascend towards the village of Pangboche. Upon reaching Pangboche, we can stop for lunch or continue to Shomare if we arrive on schedule.

Leaving Pangboche, we continue along the trail that winds above the mesmerizing Imja River. The path gradually descends before crossing the river. Afterwards, we climb, making our way up old glacial moraines until we settle in Dingboche.

Surrounded by towering peaks such as Nuptse, Lhotse, and the iconic Ama Dablam, Dingboche boasts a picturesque setting that captivates the senses. These majestic mountains dominate the skyline, creating a breathtaking backdrop for our stay in the village.

In summary, today’s trek involves traversing an exposed ridge and descending to the Imja Khola on a challenging path. We may have the opportunity to observe a Himalayan Tahr along the way. We then proceed to Pangboche, where we can enjoy lunch or continue to Shomare. Following a trail above the Imja River, we eventually cross it and ascend on ancient glacial moraines to reach Dingboche, where the awe-inspiring peaks of Nuptse, Lhotse, Amadablam, and others adorn the horizon.

Today’s trek takes us to Lobuche, situated at 4,939 meters. We begin with a 20-minute uphill walk to a Stupa, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of Mount Makalu (8,481 meters), Lhotse (8,501 meters), and other smaller mountains in the Himalayan range. This vantage point provides an excellent opportunity to appreciate the grandeur of the surrounding peaks.

Continuing our journey, we embark on an undulating hike for approximately two to two hours. Throughout this stretch, we will have Mount Taboche (6,542 meters) and Cholatse (6,440 meters) on our left, creating a magnificent backdrop for our trek. Afterwards, we cross the Khumbu River and go to Thuglha (4,620 meters), where we will stop for a well-deserved lunch break.

Leaving Thuglha, we face a steep climb of around 45 minutes to reach the summit, where we will find numerous memorial “Chortens” paying tribute to those who lost their lives on Mount Everest. This poignant memorial site serves as a reminder of the risks and sacrifices associated with mountaineering.

From there, we have the final stretch of our trek. This gentle uphill climb takes approximately 90 minutes, leading us to the picturesque village of Lobuche at 4,900 meters. This will be our destination for the day, and we will settle into our overnight lodge.

In summary, today’s trek to Lobuche involves a short uphill walk to a Stupa with stunning panoramic views, a two to two and a half hours undulating hike with Mount Taboche and Cholatse on our left, a lunch stop at Thuglha, a steep climb to the memorial “Chortens,” and finally a gentle uphill trek to Lobuche. The total walking time for the day is approximately 5-6 hours as we embrace the beauty of the Himalayas and honour those who have climbed its majestic peaks.

Today is unique as we embark on the journey to Everest Base Camp, fulfilling a bucket list wish for many trekkers. Our day begins with a 45-minute hike on undulating terrain before ascending to Gorakshep-La pass. As we make our way, we will spend the next two and a half hours walking alongside a lateral moraine, encountering a series of ups and downs. Don’t forget to take moments to appreciate the awe-inspiring vista of Himalayan Peaks that surround us. It is essential to stay hydrated, so remember to sip water along the way.

After approximately three and a half hours of trekking, we will arrive at Gorakshep at an elevation of 5,180 meters. Some trekkers may have a fast and early lunch before continuing towards Everest Base Camp (EBC). Our staff will provide packed lunches for those who prefer to eat at EBC or whenever hunger strikes. Maintaining attentiveness on the trail is crucial as it can be narrow and slippery in certain sections. When allowing other trekkers to pass through, stand on the “safer” side of the path.

The trek to EBC takes approximately two hours, and upon arrival, we will fully immerse ourselves in the experience. Take the time to observe, absorb, contemplate, and capture plenty of photos to treasure the moment. Overnight accommodation will be at Gorakshep at an elevation of 5,120 meters.

The return journey back to Gorakshep should take about 90 minutes. Most of us will likely feel very tired after such a long and exhilarating day of hiking and adventure. It’s natural to have an early dinner and retire to bed soon after, allowing for well-deserved rest and recovery.

In summary, today is remarkable as we make our way to Everest Base Camp. We trek on undulating terrain, ascend to Gorakshep-La pass, and walk alongside a lateral moraine. Reaching Gorakshep, we can have a quick lunch before continuing to Everest Base Camp. The return journey to Gorakshep concludes our long day of hiking, leaving us tired but fulfilled.

After the remarkable visit to Everest Base Camp, we can continue our journey towards Kalapathar, which translates to “Black Rock.” This viewpoint offers a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of several magnificent mountains, including Everest, Nuptse, Khumbutse, Lingtren, and Pumori. Kalapathar sits 200 meters higher than Everest Base Camp and requires a slow but steady uphill climb of approximately 2 hours. Returning to Gorakshep from Kalapathar usually takes around 60-75 minutes.

While some trekkers consider Everest Base Camp the ultimate goal and may choose to skip Kalapathar, others find the view from this vantage point to be a gratifying experience.

Following our expedition to Everest Base Camp and/or Kalapathar, we continue our journey along the same trail towards Thuglha. If you have climbed Kalapathar, we will have lunch at Lobuche. However, if you have decided to skip Kalapathar, we will hike to Thugla for lunch instead (noting that we stopped at Thugla two days ago on the way up).

From Thuglha, we take the right path at the fork and begin a primarily downhill hike towards Pheriche, a windswept valley. As we descend, you will be amazed at the difference in ground coverage and the increased oxygen levels in the atmosphere. The hiking time from Thuglha to Pheriche is approximately two hours, and Pheriche is at an elevation of 4,250 meters.

It is important to note that the trek for today can vary between 7-10 hours, depending on whether or not you choose to climb Kalapathar. This variation accounts for the additional time required to reach Kalapathar, the return to Gorakshep, and the subsequent hike to Thuglha or Pheriche.

In summary, after exploring Everest Base Camp, we can ascend Kalapathar for a remarkable viewpoint or proceed directly towards Thuglha. The trek from Thuglha leads us downhill to Pheriche, providing a contrasting landscape and a more leisurely hike. Today’s trek can range between 7-10 hours, depending on individual preferences and choices made regarding Kalapathar.

As we descend, we will still be surrounded by the towering Himalayan peaks, allowing us to appreciate them even more while making good progress. Don’t forget to pause for photographs and stay hydrated along the way.

Our trek will follow the main trail from Pangboche to Everest Base Camp and back, bypassing the Khumjung and Phortse routes we took earlier. During this journey, we will take a break at Thyangboche to visit the Monastery and enjoy lunch.

After Thyangboche, we will face a steep descent of 650 meters to reach the meeting point of the Dudh Koshi and Imja Khola rivers at Phunki Tenga. From there, a challenging 90-minute climb awaits us before we reach Kyangjuma, our final destination for the day.

In Kyangjuma, you can relax and enjoy a warm beverage and delightful confectioneries from the cheerful and friendly bakery owners. Situated at an elevation of 3,650 meters, Kyangjuma offers a tranquil setting. The total duration of today’s trek will be approximately 6 hours.

In summary, as we continue our descent, we will still be surrounded by the awe-inspiring Himalayan peaks while covering more ground. The main trail from Pangboche to Everest Base Camp will be our path, with a stop at Thyangboche for a Monastery visit and lunch. We will descend to Phunki Tenga before embarking on a challenging climb to Kyangjuma. Finally, in Kyangjuma, we can enjoy a well-deserved break with hot beverages and delicious treats from the friendly bakery owners.

Our day begins with a relatively level terrain, lasting approximately 90 minutes, as we approach Namche Bazaar. After passing through Namche, we continued our trek, descending steeply until we reached a high suspension bridge. This section offers breathtaking views and a thrilling experience.

In the morning, we will exit the Sagarmatha National Park and progress towards Monjo, where we will stop for lunch. Monjo is a suitable location for a midday break, allowing us to rest and refuel before continuing our journey.
Following lunch, we embark on another two-hour trek towards Phakding, our final destination for the day. Phakding offers a comfortable overnight stay where we can rest and rejuvenate. Lodge accommodations will be provided.

Our day commences with a relatively flat stretch to Namche Bazaar, followed by a steep descent to the high suspension bridge. After leaving Sagarmatha National Park, we pause for lunch in Monjo before continuing for two more hours to reach Phakding, where we will spend the night in a lodge.

Our final day of trekking involves a three-hour journey to reach Lukla. As we set off from Phakding, it’s interesting to reflect on how our thoughts and perspectives have evolved since the beginning of our adventure.

At the start, there might have been a mix of excitement, anticipation, and perhaps a hint of nervousness about what lay ahead. We embarked on this trek with a sense of wonder, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Himalayas and motivated by the desire to challenge ourselves both physically and mentally.

As we approach the end of our trek, our thoughts may be filled with a sense of accomplishment and pride. We have pushed our limits, overcome obstacles, and embarked on an incredible journey that will be etched in our memories forever. The breathtaking landscapes, challenging trails, and the camaraderie with our support crew have all contributed to an unforgettable experience.

We have planned a celebration with our dedicated support crew to commemorate our successful journey and express our gratitude. Last night’s party was a moment of joy and appreciation, acknowledging the hard work and dedication of those who have assisted us throughout this trek.

As we prepare for our final night in the mountains, we can take solace in the fact that we have achieved our goal and have shared this remarkable journey with like-minded individuals. The overnight lodging provides a comfortable space for us to relish in our accomplishments and reflect on the transformative nature of our expedition.

On this day, we will bid farewell to the beautiful mountainous regions and begin our journey back to Kathmandu. The first leg of our return involves flying from Lukla to Manthali. The scenic flight will provide us with one last opportunity to admire the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Himalayas before our departure.
After landing in Manthali, we will embark on a four-hour drive back to Kathmandu. The drive will take us through picturesque countryside, offering glimpses of rural life and the stunning landscapes of Nepal.

Upon reaching Kathmandu, you will have the afternoon free to relax and unwind from the trekking expedition. This time can be utilized to rejuvenate, reflect on the incredible experiences, and savour the memories created during the trip.
You also have the option to explore the vibrant markets of Kathmandu and indulge in purchasing gifts for your family and friends. The city offers a wide array of handicrafts, traditional artefacts, clothing, and various souvenirs that showcase Nepal’s rich cultural heritage. This will be an opportunity to bring back cherished mementoes and share the essence of your journey with your loved ones.

Note: You can pay an extra $500 for a seat on a direct helicopter flight to Kathmandu.

This additional day acts as a contingency plan, allowing flexibility and adjustments to the itinerary. In bad weather at the trek’s outset, the free day can be utilised to wait for improved conditions before commencing the journey. Similarly, if inclement weather delays or disrupts the trek’s conclusion, the free day allows one to catch up and complete the remaining portion safely. Including a free day as part of the trekking plan mitigates the potential impact of adverse weather and ensures a smoother and safer experience for all participants.

International departure. You will leave for the airport three hours before your flight time.

A Responsible promise

Despite the exceptional circumstances in which we find ourselves at the moment, we don’t want you to give up your holiday – and we want you to be able to book your trip without any worries.

To provide additional security for your booking, we have introduced a new rebooking and cancellation policy so that you can easily rebook or cancel your trip free of charge if the worst comes to the worst.

Free Cancellation With the Responsible Promise 100% Money-Back Guarantee

For new bookings made between May 10th 2021, and December 31st 2022, you may cancel your complete package (activities, hotels, tours, excl. flight) free of charge up to 30 days before your departure and get 100% of your money back. However, to stay flexible, we recommend that you choose a flexible fare when booking your flight.

Full flexibility on your booking

Stay flexible with our new rebooking service until shortly before your departure. For new bookings made between my 10thh and December 31stt, 2021, you may rebook your package (activities, hotels, tours) free of charge up to 30 days before your departure (subject to availability). Rebooking is only allowed once, and you must inform us 30 days before your planned departure. Any additional costs incurred due to changes in your schedule or upgrades, such as additional fees in high season or upgrades to your accommodation, will still apply. To remain flexible, we recommend that you choose a flexible fare when booking your flight.

Trek FAQ

Am I too young or old?

Most of our clients have completed their treks from 3 years old to some in their 70s with almost no exercise or training.

Do you offer hotel/airport pick-up?

We offer hotel and airport pick-up. As you continue with your booking, there will be an option to input flight details or hotel names.

Do I need a Visa?

A visa for Nepal can be acquired on arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, and at border entry points in Kakadvitta, Birgunj, Bhairahawa, Nepalgunj, Gaddachowki on the Nepal-India border, and Kerung on the Nepal-China border.

A visa can also be obtained outside of Nepal at the nearest Nepal Embassy or Diplomatic Mission.

For more information, visit the Department of Immigration, Kalikasthan, Kathmandu.

What should I bring on a Trek?

Being adequately equipped is one of the keys to a successful trek. For information to help you select the best type of clothing and equipment for your trip, please see our Clothing and Equipment Guide.

Also, see our Links page for details of specialist retailers who will offer further advice and assistance with purchasing new clothing or equipment.

If you have more questions, please check this article to reference equipment to pack or contact us.

Is this trip safe for solo/female/LGBT+/minority/POC travellers?
You are safe as long as you respect the culture, do not show affection in public, and dress decently (this won’t pose too much of a problem as you will be covered up in layers to stay warm).

Here are some helpful articles:
Am I too old to go trekking?
Arriving at Kathmandu airport.
Should I bring cash or ATM cards?
What to pack for a trek?
Do I need to train for a hike?
What is a typical day on a tour like?
What is the food like on the tour?
The Benefits of Using Trekking Poles.
What do I need to know about high altitudes?
High altitude myths.
How to trek safely?
For more articles, you can go to our blogs.