- 11 days
- Nepal
- Trekking
Discover the real Nepal through a once-in-a-lifetime cultural event, the marriage of rural villagers. Meet people far from the tourist part of Nepal and get to know their culture.
Book this Nepal trek and get a complimentary one hour Trekker’s’ massage after the trek is over. The masseuses will be from a marginalized community. This is part of our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.
Note: You can pre-book a seat on a direct helicopter flight from Kathmandu to Lukla and return for an additional US$500 per person each way. You will avoid the 4-5 hours drive to or from Manthali. For example – if you decide to book a helicopter seat for both ways – US$1000 extra needs to be added.
Experience the Sherpa region’s beauty and witness Mount Everest’s grandeur on the short and scenic Tengboche trek. This six-day adventure takes you through breathtaking landscapes while immersing you in the unique Sherpa culture.
Begin your journey with a flight into Lukla and a trek to Namche Bazaar, the bustling Sherpa capital. From there, continue your ascent to the renowned Tengboche Monastery. For those seeking further exploration, an optional day hike to Khumjung offers a visit to a remote Sherpa settlement where Sir Edmund Hillary established the first school in the area.
This trek is a wonderful introduction to the Sherpa region, providing captivating views of the surrounding mountain ranges. It is particularly popular among first-time trekkers in Nepal, offering a taste of the region’s culture and landscapes without venturing into higher elevations. Whether you have limited time or prefer a shorter trekking experience, the Tengboche trek promises a rewarding and memorable adventure.
We are pioneers in gastronome trekking in the Himalayas. We provide a varied, exciting menu on treks throughout the Himalayas. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meals can be catered for upon request, and other special diets can be accommodated with advance notice.
Trekking is not only fun, but it is beneficial for you. It helps in detoxifying the body while also nourishing the soul. Although to provide a better experience, we also tailor our meals to include superfoods as ingredients to keep you fit and healthy while assisting in acclimatization to high altitudes. Combining hiking in the pristine mountain air and healthy food makes trekking with us a complete adventure. Read More on Food and nutrition on our treks.
Note – Flight to Lukla and back can be delayed or cancelled due to poor visibility. We ask you to have buffer days of a few days in case your flight to Lukla is affected.
Upon your arrival at the vibrant capital of Nepal, Kathmandu, you will be warmly greeted by our representative at the airport. From there, you will embark on a comfortable drive to Manthali.
To ensure a smooth transition, scheduling your international flight to arrive in Kathmandu during the early afternoon is advisable. This allows ample time for airport procedures and necessary clearances before commencing your journey to Manthali.
Our representative will readily assist you upon your arrival, ensuring a seamless experience from the start of your adventure. Please book your international flight accordingly to maximize your time in Kathmandu before proceeding to Manthali.
Note: You can pre-book a seat on a direct helicopter flight at an additional $500 per person to avoid the 4-5 hours of drive to Manthali.
After arriving in Lukla at an altitude of 2,800 meters, your trekking adventure begins. If your flight lands in the morning, your goal for the day is to trek towards the charming village of Monjo, which typically takes around 5 hours on foot.
On the other hand, if your flight arrives later in the day, staying at the picturesque village of Phakding, which is approximately a 3-hour trek from Lukla, is more practical. This option allows you to rest and acclimatise before continuing your journey deeper into the Himalayas.
The specific itinerary may vary depending on your flight arrival time and individual fitness levels. Our team of experienced guides will ensure that your trekking schedule is optimised for your safety, comfort, and enjoyment.
The second day of your trek takes you along the scenic route, following the beautiful Dudh Koshi River. You will cross a suspension bridge over the Kyashar Khola and pass through Jorsalle, which serves as the entrance to the renowned Sagarmatha National Park.
During this one-hour trek, you will encounter a mix of terrain, including flat sections and some short steep ascents and descents. Along the way, you will experience a high-suspension bridge, which marks a significant point in your journey.
After crossing the bridge, you will face a challenging two-hour steep ascent leading to your destination, Namche Bazaar. This vibrant Sherpa town is nestled at a high altitude and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Your lodge is conveniently located at the top of Namche Bazaar, providing a comfortable place to rest and acclimate to the higher elevation.
Throughout the day’s trek, you will have ample opportunities to soak in the region’s breathtaking natural beauty and experience the warm hospitality of the local Sherpa community.
Commencing the day early, you will embark on a climb that rewards you with awe-inspiring views of Mt. Everest and its majestic peaks. This vantage point offers a remarkable sight that will leave an indelible impression on your journey.
After taking in the breathtaking views, you can delve into the rich Sherpa culture and heritage at the Sherpa Museum and Cultural Centre. Located within the compound of your lodge, this private establishment provides an insightful exploration of Sherpa traditions, history, and artefacts. It is an enriching experience that allows you to understand the local community better.
Moreover, the lodge owner, known for his dedication to conservation and their talent in photography, enhances your stay by offering exquisite scenic posters and postcards for purchase. These items showcase the owner’s artistic vision and capture the mesmerizing landscapes of the region. By acquiring these unique pieces, you bring home stunning visuals and support the owner’s passion and commitment to showcasing the area’s natural beauty.
Immersing yourself in the Sherpa culture, marvelling at the incredible vistas, and supporting local initiatives will add authenticity and significance to your trekking adventure in the Everest region.
The trek commences with a pleasant hike along a broad and relatively flat path, which takes approximately ninety minutes, leading you to the charming settlement of Kyangjuma. As you traverse this section, you will be captivated by the awe-inspiring views of towering peaks and deep valleys that unfold before you. It’s important to take moments to pause, allowing yourself the opportunity to capture photographs or appreciate the breathtaking vistas.
Following a refreshing tea break at Kyangjuma, the trail gradually starts to descend until you reach the suspension bridge at Phunki Tenga. Crossing this bridge marks a significant point in the journey. From here, the path takes a steep ascent for approximately two hours until you reach the ridge where the renowned Tengboche Monastery is nestled, at an elevation of 3,870 meters. This ascent requires determination and stamina but is well worth the effort, given the magnificent setting awaiting you at the monastery.
This leg of the trek encompasses around six hours of hiking, offering mesmerizing scenery and cultural significance as you traverse diverse landscapes.
On our return journey, we will retrace our steps back to Namche Bazaar, allowing us to relive and cherish the awe-inspiring views surrounding us during our initial ascent. As we make our way, we will pause and admire the scenic vistas that unfold before us, creating lasting memories of our trek.
Upon reaching Namche Bazaar, we will stop for a well-deserved lunch. Here, you can shop for souvenirs, exploring the local market for unique mementoes and keepsakes to commemorate your Himalayan adventure.
After our break, we will resume our trek towards Monjo. This leg of the journey involves descending a steep hill before reaching a high suspension bridge. Crossing this bridge marks an important milestone as we make our way towards Jorsalle, where we will have the chance to explore the renowned Sagarmatha National Park. This park is a testament to the region’s natural beauty and acts as a conservation area, preserving the unique biodiversity of the Everest region.
Finally, we will spend another night at Monjo, allowing us to savour the peaceful atmosphere and reflect on the incredible experiences we have had thus far. This part of the trek is expected to take approximately six hours, encompassing both the physical challenges of the terrain and the opportunities to immerse ourselves in the natural and cultural wonders of the Everest region.
As we embark on the final leg of our journey, we have a trek of approximately five hours ahead of us, leading us back to Lukla. It is a perfect opportunity to reflect upon our experiences at the beginning and end of our adventure.
At the start, our minds were filled with anticipation and excitement as we set foot on this remarkable trek. The landscapes were fresh and new, and the challenges ahead were unknown. We marvel at the majestic peaks, deep valleys, and the unique cultural experiences that await us. Each step was filled with wonder and curiosity as we immersed ourselves in the Himalayan beauty.
Now, as we near the end of our journey, we can look back on the profound transformation that has taken place within us. Our bodies have grown stronger, adapting to the demands of the rugged terrain. Our minds have expanded, enriched by the stunning vistas and the encounters with local communities. The sense of accomplishment and personal growth is palpable as we approach Lukla.
To mark the end of our adventure, we will join our dedicated support crew in celebrating a memorable last night’s party. It is a time to express gratitude for their unwavering support and companionship throughout the journey. Together, we will reminisce about the challenges overcome and the shared moments of joy and triumph. It is a fitting conclusion to an incredible trek in the Everest region.
As we settle into our overnight lodge, our hearts are filled with nostalgia, fulfilment, and a sense of accomplishment. We have completed a journey that has tested our physical and mental limits but has rewarded us with memories that will last a lifetime.
We fly to Manthali and drive back to Kathmandu for approximately 4 hours. Once we reach Kathmandu, we will have the afternoon free to relax, unwind, explore the city, and indulge in souvenir hunting.
Note: You pre-book a seat on a direct helicopter flight to Kathmandu for an additional $500 and avoid a 4-5 hour drive from Manthali.
During our stay in Kathmandu, we will embark on a sightseeing tour that includes two iconic destinations: Kathmandu Durbar Square (formerly Palace Square) and Swayambunath.
Our first stop will be Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This historic square is located in the city’s heart and is known for its exquisite architecture and ancient palaces. Here, we can explore the intricately carved wooden temples, admire the stunning courtyards, and learn about this iconic square’s rich history and cultural significance.
After Kathmandu Durbar Square, we will go to Swayambunath, known as the “Monkey Temple.” Situated on a hilltop, Swayambunath offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley. This religious site is adorned with a magnificent stupa with prayer flags and colourful prayer wheels. It is a sacred site for Buddhists and Hindus and is believed to be one of the oldest religious sites in Nepal.
During our visit to Swayambunath, we can observe the playful monkeys that reside in the area, explore the temple complex, and enjoy the serene atmosphere. We will have the opportunity to circumambulate the stupa, spin the prayer wheels, and soak in the spiritual ambience of this sacred place.
Overall, our sightseeing tour of Kathmandu will take us through the historical treasures of Kathmandu Durbar Square and the spiritual charm of Swayambunath, providing us with a glimpse into Nepal’s rich cultural and religious heritage.
International departure. You will be brought to the airport 3 hours before your flight time.
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.
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.
Stay flexible with our new rebooking service until shortly before your departure. For new bookings made between May 10th and December 31st, 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
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 if 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 walk?
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.