Sherpa Legends of Everest Trekking Wellness Tour

Sherpa Legends of Everest Trekking

Wellness Tour

September through May

On Request

15 Days / 14 Nights

Min. 4 / Max 12 Trekkers

Moderate

Mountain Lodges

Max 4000 Mt

Trek Through the Villages of Legendary Sherpas of the Everest Region

Your trek is curated to provide a profoundly enriching experience, focusing on an in-depth understanding of the Sherpa culture, the communities you’ll visit, and the notable personalities residing in these villages. Our dedicated team is committed to imparting comprehensive knowledge about the Sherpa people, their traditions, and the unique aspects of each village you’ll encounter along this journey.

In addition to the cultural immersion, we prioritise your well-being by offering the healthiest and most diverse meals amidst the Himalayas. Savouring these nourishing meals not only sustains your energy for the trek but also ensures you have the vitality to relish every moment of your vacation.

The aim is to provide you with a holistic experience where every aspect of your journey, from cultural exploration to culinary delights, contributes to a fulfilling and memorable adventure in the lap of the Himalayas. Our team’s dedication is to make your trek a vacation and a transformative and enlightening journey that stays with you long after you’ve left the mountains.

Your trek starts with a picturesque flight to Lukla, an entryway to the Khumbu region. Our carefully designed route ensures an exploration of renowned and less-travelled trails in the Everest region. We’ve handpicked lodges owned by captivating individuals, each with stories that captivate your imagination. Opting for less crowded lodges guarantees a more intimate and authentic experience.

Throughout your journey, you’ll lodge in locally run tea houses, immersing yourself in the warmth of villages like Phakding and Namche Bazaar—the vibrant heart of Sherpa culture. Namche Bazaar boasts a lively ambience, offering amenities such as cafes, restaurants, shops catering to trekkers, bars, and laundry services.

One of the highlights of this trek is encounters with Sherpas who hold world records or have broken records, affording you the unique opportunity to stay and dine at their homes. A spiritual pinnacle awaits at the Tengboche Monastery, providing a breathtaking panorama of Mount Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and the majestic Mount Everest. While the monastery has weathered natural calamities, the passing of Lama Ngawang Tenzing Jangpo Rimpoche in 2020 marked a poignant moment in its history.

As you traverse these landscapes, you’ll encounter diverse wildlife and migratory birds, thriving since the establishment of the Sagarmatha National Park. Being Nepal’s inaugural national park inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979, it has fostered the resurgence of wildlife populations, enriching your trek with glimpses of nature’s beauty and biodiversity.

This journey promises adventure and a tapestry of cultural immersion, spiritual resonance, and encounters with the wonders of nature, ensuring every step is adorned with unforgettable experiences.

 

Food and nutrition on the trek

We are pioneers in culinary 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 offers not just adventure but a plethora of health benefits. It serves as a detoxifying journey for the body and a nourishing experience for the soul. At our trekking expeditions, we go the extra mile to enhance your experience by customising meals that incorporate superfoods carefully chosen for their health-boosting properties. These superfoods aid in maintaining your fitness and vitality, which is crucial for acclimatising to high altitudes.

The fusion of trekking amidst the pure mountain air and consuming nutritious, superfood-enriched meals transforms your trek into a holistic wellness adventure. This combination rejuvenates your body and revitalises your spirit, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in the splendour of the Himalayas while promoting your overall well-being.

Our commitment is not just to offer a trekking experience but to create a journey that nurtures both your physical health and spiritual vitality, ensuring that every step in these breathtaking landscapes contributes to your holistic wellness and leaves you feeling refreshed and invigorated.

The trek will begin after a short, scenic flight to Lukla in the Khumbu region. This trek has been designed to take you through the Everest region’s famous and less busy trails. We have selected lodges owned by exciting characters with stories that enchant you. Likewise, we have picked less active lodges.

Staying in locally run tea houses along the way, you walk to the villages of Phakding and Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa capital of the World. Namche Bazaar is a bustling little town with numerous cafes, restaurants, shops with essentials for trekkers, bars, and laundry services.

This trek’s numerous highlights are visiting villages home to World record-setting/breaking Sherpas. You will even stay and dine at the homes of two of these famous Sherpas. One of the spiritual highlights is the Tengboche monastery, which offers an incredible panorama of Mount Nuptse 7901 meters, Lhotse 8501 meters, Ama Dablam 6812 meters, and Mount Everest! This monastery was first built in 1916 and has been rebuilt twice. It was damaged by the 1923 earthquake and a fire in 1989. The current building was rebuilt after the fire. The renowned Abbot of the monastery, Lama Ngawang Tenzing Jangpo Rimpoche, passed away quietly on the 9th of October 2020.

You will encounter various wildlife and birds that are both residents and migratory. The wildlife population has increased since the Sagarmatha National Park was established in 1976, and it was Nepal’s first national park to be inscribed as a World Heritage site in 1979.

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.

Itinerary

We fly to Lukla (2,800m) in the morning. Starting your trek from Lukla, situated at 2,800 meters, marks the commencement of your exhilarating journey. If your flight lands in the morning, the goal is to trek towards Monjo, a roughly 5-hour trek from Lukla. This picturesque trail takes you through stunning landscapes and offers glimpses of the surrounding beauty of the Everest region.


However, if the flight lands later in the day, the alternative plan is to trek to the charming village of Phakding, which typically takes around 3 hours. Nestled amidst the breathtaking Himalayan scenery, Phakding provides a serene setting for your trek, allowing you to acclimate and immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings before continuing your adventure deeper into the mountains.

 

Whether your path leads you to Monjo or Phakding, both destinations offer unique experiences and perfect starting points for your trek into the heart of the Everest region.

Your day in Kathmandu starts with a captivating walking tour, starting with a visit to Ason, renowned for its ancient spice market. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling area, where the air is filled with the fragrant aromas of spices and the energy of daily commerce.


Following the Ason spice market exploration, meander through the lively streets of Kathmandu, absorbing the city’s vibrant culture and rich heritage. Experience the energetic pulse of daily life in this bustling metropolis, encountering local traditions, colourful shops, and the dynamic essence of the city.


Later in the afternoon, embark on a scenic 4-5 hour drive to Manthali, a journey that sets the stage for your flight to Lukla the next day. This drive offers picturesque views of Nepal’s landscapes, providing glimpses of the country’s stunning scenery as you travel to Manthali in preparation for the exciting flight to Lukla.


Prepare for the next leg of your adventure, as this day’s experiences offer a taste of Kathmandu’s vibrancy and the anticipation of the adventures awaiting you in the Himalayas.


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.

We fly to Lukla (2,800m) and start our trek. Starting your trek from Lukla, situated at 2,800 meters, marks the commencement of your exhilarating journey. If your flight lands in the morning, the goal is to trek towards Monjo, a roughly 5-hour trek from Lukla. This picturesque trail takes you through stunning landscapes and offers glimpses of the surrounding beauty of the Everest region.

 

However, if the flight lands later in the day, the alternative plan is to trek to the charming village of Phakding, which typically takes around 3 hours. Nestled amidst the breathtaking Himalayan scenery, Phakding provides a serene setting for your trek, allowing you to acclimate and immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings before continuing your adventure deeper into the mountains.

 

Whether your path leads you to Monjo or Phakding, both destinations offer unique experiences and perfect starting points for your trek into the heart of the Everest region.

Our expedition commences along the enchanting Dudh Koshi River, guiding us across the Kyashar Khola suspension bridge before we arrive at Jorsalle, marking the entry to Sagarmatha National Park. Trekking for about an hour, we navigate a varied terrain—flats, brief steep inclines, and descents—culminating in the awe-inspiring high suspension bridge.


Once we traverse this bridge, a demanding two-hour ascent beckons, leading us through challenging landscapes toward the elevated haven of Namche Bazaar. Perched atop this bustling town, our lodge offers accommodation and a breathtaking panoramic view, encapsulating the allure of this iconic destination and ensuring an unforgettable stay.

In the early morning’s hushed serenity, we embark on an ascent, eager to witness the grandeur of Mt. Everest and its neighbouring peaks bathed in the soft hues of the awakening sun. This enchanting vista is a testament to nature’s magnificence, a moment etched in memory.


After absorbing this breathtaking sight, we venture into the heart of our lodging’s compound—an enclave housing the Sherpa Museum and Cultural Centre. This private sanctuary, meticulously curated by the lodge’s owner, embodies the essence of Sherpa heritage and traditions. It’s a narrative woven with artefacts, stories, and relics that offer an immersive glimpse into this rich and storied culture.


Immersed in this cultural trove, you’ll discover the lodge owner’s multifaceted talents—a dedicated conservationist and a skilled photographer. Their artistry adorns the walls, manifesting in a collection of vivid posters and postcards capturing the Himalayan panorama in all its splendour. These masterpieces, available for acquisition, encapsulate the very essence of this ethereal landscape, allowing you to carry a piece of its awe-inspiring beauty with you as a cherished token of your profound Himalayan odyssey.

Embarking on our trek, we venture towards the picturesque village of Thame, situated at an elevation of 3,700 meters. Unlike the bustling trails leading to Everest Base Camp, this route offers a more secluded path, inviting us to explore hidden treasures away from the usual foot traffic. Along this scenic journey, we traverse lesser-known villages, winding through enchanting forests, and witness the commanding presence of Mount Kongde, dominating the valley’s skyline with its grandeur.


Our abode for this leg of the journey is a lodge owned by the esteemed Apa Sherpa, an individual of extraordinary acclaim in the mountaineering world. Apa Sherpa holds an unparalleled world record, having conquered the summit of Mount Everest an astounding 22 times—an achievement that solidifies his legendary status. Staying at his lodge provides an intimate insight into the life and experiences of this remarkable mountaineer, offering a unique connection to the Sherpa culture and the indomitable spirit of Everest’s conquerors. It’s an opportunity not just for rest but to immerse ourselves in the lore and wisdom of a Himalayan icon, fostering an unforgettable chapter in our Himalayan expedition.

Retracing our steps to the pivotal junction on the trail, we climb towards the Shyangboche airstrip, a delightful pause for a satisfying lunch amidst the Himalayan panorama. Continuing our journey, we make our way to the enchanting village of Khumjung, nestled at 3,790 meters, passing through the picturesque Khunde village.


Our path unravels the story of philanthropy and impact as we encounter significant landmarks—Khunde houses the distinguished hospital founded by the revered Sir Edmund Hillary. Progressing further, Khumjung reveals its educational beacon, the school envisioned and built by Sir Edmund Hillary, fostering learning and opportunity for the local community. Khunde and Khumjung find their serene abode beneath the watchful gaze of Khumbila, the protective deity mountain, lending an aura of tranquillity to these idyllic villages amidst the grandeur of the Himalayas.

Our trek resumes as we descend towards Kyangjuma, rejoining the bustling main trail leading to Everest Base Camp. Along this downhill path, we might chance upon our national treasures—the Impeyan Pheasants—gracefully foraging in the fields, a delightful sight to behold.


Continuing our descent, we arrive at Phunki Tenga, where the terrain takes a steep turn upwards for the next two hours, guiding us to the ridge adorned by the renowned Tengboche Monastery. This sacred sanctuary beckons us to immerse ourselves in its serenity, offering awe-inspiring views of the encircling peaks, provided the weather grants us this glimpse. The monastery is a popular and vibrant hub with activity and spiritual reverence.


Our journey culminates with a descent to Deboche, situated at 3,790 meters. Unlike the bustling Tengboche, Deboche offers a quieter ambience, inviting us to unwind amidst its serene surroundings, providing a peaceful contrast to our earlier stops along the trail.

Embarking on an excursion, we trek towards the village of Pangboche at 3,860 meters. Our path leads us across the Imja Khola via a suspension bridge, weaving through enchanting rhododendrons and pine forests adorned with intricate stone-carved walls. Along the way, the majestic presence of Mount Ama Dablam at 6,812 meters looms ever closer, offering a breathtaking backdrop to our journey.

 

Upon reaching Pangboche, we’ll either savour an early lunch or opt for a delightful picnic arranged by our attentive staff along the trail towards the secluded Phortse village. This off-the-beaten-path destination promises opportunities to spot the elusive Musk Deer and our esteemed national birds, the Impeyan Pheasants, amidst the serene wilderness.


Your experienced trek leader will regale you with enthralling tales as we trek, adding an extra layer of excitement to our adventure. Meanwhile, our skilled chef will craft yet another of his nourishing and wholesome meals, ensuring our bodies are replenished and energised for the onward journey amidst this captivating Himalayan landscape.

Our journey leads us down to the banks of the Dudh Koshi River before ascending a steep hill towards the revered Tengboche Monastery, an iconic landmark gracing this mountainous terrain. After paying homage to the monastery’s spiritual aura, we retrace our steps back, heading towards the quaint settlement of Kyangjuma at 3,700 meters.


Nestled within this tiny hamlet are only three lodges, and our accommodation for the night is an inn owned by a two-time conqueror of Everest’s summit—an embodiment of Himalayan triumph. Kyangjuma springs to life in the mornings, bustling with trekkers en route to Everest Base Camp. They pause to relish hot beverages amidst the breathtaking mountain vistas and indulge in souvenir shopping, adding a touch of liveliness to this serene mountain retreat.


Interestingly, this lodge remains a preference for only a handful of select trekking companies, amplifying its exclusivity amidst this picturesque Himalayan setting.

Our return journey leads us along a trail we had previously bypassed, offering splendid panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. We traverse Namche Bazaar, savouring the vibrant atmosphere before embarking on a lengthy downhill stretch that guides us alongside the turbulent Dudh Koshi River.


As we follow the river’s meandering course, our path leads us back to Monjo at 2,840 meters, where we pause for a well-deserved lunch. Energised and refreshed, we continue our trek towards the serene Phakding village, our final destination for the night. This tranquil village provides a perfect setting to unwind and reflect on memorable experiences amidst the majestic Himalayan terrain.

As we traverse the bustling terrain between Phakding and Lukla, enveloped by the lively ambience of this densely populated area, we gradually approach the culmination of our remarkable journey. Arriving in Lukla, a sense of accomplishment and camaraderie fills the air, marking the end of our unforgettable adventure amidst the Himalayas.


We gather for a relaxing moment over a drink or two to commemorate our shared triumphs and cherish the myriad of beautiful experiences. It’s a time for celebration, reflection, and bonding as a group, reminiscing about the breathtaking vistas, shared challenges, and the profound memories etched into our Himalayan odyssey.

Following the conclusion of our expedition in Lukla, we embark on a flight to Manthali, where we transition into a scenic drive back to Kathmandu. The approximately 4 to 5-hour journey offers glimpses of Nepal’s captivating landscapes as we traverse the winding roads that lead us back to the bustling city.

 

As we go through this picturesque route, the journey back to Kathmandu provides a final opportunity to soak in the natural beauty and reflect on the myriad experiences gained during our Himalayan adventure.

 

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.

In the morning, we embark on a captivating walking tour through Ason, an ancient spice market steeped in history. Meandering through the bustling streets of Kathmandu, we delve into the heart of this vibrant cityscape, immersing ourselves in its dynamic energy and cultural richness.

 

This immersive tour offers a glimpse into the traditional facets of Kathmandu, exploring its labyrinthine alleys, encountering locals engaged in daily rituals, and witnessing the vibrant tapestry of life in this bustling metropolis. If not explored earlier, this excursion promises an authentic and engaging experience, allowing us to absorb the sights, sounds, and scents that define the essence of Kathmandu’s bustling streets and vibrant markets.

You will be brought to the airport 3 hours before your departure time for your international flight.

Inclusions

  • Boutique hotel in Kathmandu on a bed-and-breakfast basis
  • Hotel/lodges on a twin-sharing basis
  • All transportation
  • Responsible Adventures’ expert trek leader or Trek with Raj
  • Trekking Chef
  • Complimentary T-shirt
  • Use of trekking kit bag during the trek
  • One assistant guide between 4 trekkers
  • One porter between two trekkers
  • Proper clothing for porters and crew
  • Food for porters & crew members (we are less than a handful of trekking companies that provide this facility)
  • Insurance for staff and porters
  • All permits
  • Twin sharing room on the trek
  • All meals on the trek (the healthiest and most varied trekking meals in the whole of the Himalayas)
  • Domestic airfare

Exclusions

  • International airport taxes
  • Visas
  • All optional additional tours or activities during free time
  • Transportation outside of the tour program
  • Travel insurance (compulsory to have insurance that covers helicopter evacuation)
  • Tips (suggested amount US$75 per week for staff only); Leader’s tips at your discretion
  • Items of a personal nature, e.g., alcoholic drinks, bottled beverages, laundry, souvenirs, etc.

Prices

Per Person USD $3,500
Min. 4 Participants
Private Tour USD $4,250
Min. 2 Particpants

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