DAY 1: ARRIVE IN KATHMANDU
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, our local representative will greet you warmly at the airport and transfer you to your hotel for a well-deserved rest after your journey. Later, you’ll attend a briefing session where we’ll go over the trek itinerary, logistics, and other important details.
If your flight arrives in the morning, you’ll have the rest of the day free — perfect for relaxing or exploring the vibrant streets of Thamel, visiting nearby cultural sites, or sampling some delicious Nepalese cuisine at local restaurants. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in Kathmandu’s warm hospitality and unique atmosphere before your adventure begins.
- Transport: Private vehicle
- Meals: Dinner
- Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
DAY 2: FLIGHT TO LUKLA (2,850 M) - PHAKDING (2,600 M)
During the peak trekking months of October and November, direct flights between Kathmandu and Lukla are temporarily suspended due to heavy air traffic, following a government directive. Instead, travelers take a 4-hour drive from Kathmandu to Ramechhap (Manthali Airport), followed by a 25-minute scenic flight to Lukla. The same route applies for the return journey.
For the rest of the year, Kathmandu–Lukla flights operate normally.
The flight to Lukla itself is an unforgettable experience. Weather permitting, the small aircraft glides through stunning Himalayan scenery — snow-capped peaks, rolling green hills, and terraced farmlands. From the sky, the short, sloped runway of Lukla Airport, perched on a narrow ridge, makes for an exhilarating landing.
Upon arrival, our team of porters will be ready to assist, under the supervision of the Sirdar, who organizes the load distribution. The trek then begins with a gentle descent offering beautiful views of the Dudh Kosi River. The trail winds through rice fields, traditional Sherpa villages, chortens, and mani walls carved with Buddhist prayers. Suspension bridges cross sparkling rivers, and the path is lined with towering cedar and pine trees. We eventually reach the valley floor and settle in for the night at Phakding Lodge.
- Transport: 4-hour drive (Kathmandu to Manthali) + 25-minute flight (Manthali to Lukla)
- Altitude gain/loss: +100 m / -300 m
- Final altitude: approx. 2,610 m
- Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
- Accommodation: Lodge in Phakding
DAY3: TREKKING FROM PHAKDING TO NAMCHE BAZAR (3,440 M)
We continue our trek along the Dudh Kosi River, following a scenic trail lined with towering Himalayan pines. The path crosses several suspension bridges, switching banks as the river winds its way through the valley. The route gradually steepens as we ascend toward Namche Bazaar, the vibrant heart of the Khumbu region.
Along the way, we are treated to stunning views of Thamserku, and on a clear day, we may even catch our first glimpse of Mount Everest in the distance. Upon reaching Namche Bazaar, a lively Sherpa town nestled in a natural amphitheater, we’ll take time to explore its colorful markets, shops, and bakeries, soaking in the unique mountain atmosphere.
- Trekking: Approximately 6 hours
- Altitude gain/loss: +800 m / -40 m
- Final altitude: Approx. 3,440 m
- Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
- Accommodation: Lodge in Namche Bazaar
DAY 4: NAMCHE BAZAR ACCLIMITIZATION
We begin the day with a gentle ascent through a small forest, where glimpses of the majestic Khumbu peaks — Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam — unfold before us for the first time. The trail leads us to the charming twin villages of Kunde and Khumjung, nestled beneath the sacred Khumbila mountain.
Here, we may visit the Hillary School in Khumjung and the Kunde Hospital, both established through the efforts of Sir Edmund Hillary as part of his dedication to improving the lives of the Sherpa people. These visits offer a meaningful insight into local culture and community life.
- Walking: Approximately 4 hours
- Altitude gain/loss: +420 m / -420 m
- Final altitude: Approx. 3,440 m
- Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
- Accommodation: Lodge in Namche
DAY 5: TREKKING FROM NAMCHE BAZAR TO PHORTSE (3,790 M)
Leaving Namche Bazaar, we ascend a short stone staircase that quickly gives us elevation and a sweeping view of the surrounding valley. The trail then contours along the hillside, maintaining a relatively steady level. On our right, we pass the route leading toward Tengboche, Dingboche, and Everest Base Camp, while we continue our journey through the beautiful Dudh Kosi Nadi Valley.
As we approach Phortse, the valley opens up to reveal the majestic Cho Oyu (8,188 m) towering in the distance. By this stage, our bodies are gradually adapting to the altitude, and we find ourselves walking at the base of two striking peaks — Thamserku (6,608 m) and Kangtega (6,685 m) — both dominating the skyline.
- Trekking: Approximately 5 hours
- Altitude gain/ loss: +800 m / -350 m
- Final altitude: Approx. 3,710 m
- Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
- Accommodation: Lodge in Phortse
DAY 6: TREKKING FROM PHORTSE — MACHERMO (4,400M)
Today’s trek offers a short and gentle stage, ideal for further acclimatization to the increasing altitude. We walk at an easy pace, focusing on steady breathing and mindful steps — the key to trekking comfortably in the high Himalayas.
The trail ascends gradually across sunny mountain pastures on the southern slopes of the valley, facing the magnificent glacial wall of Cho Oyu (8,153 m), which marks the border with Tibet. Along the way, we pass through small herding settlements, stone-walled fields, and yak pastures, soaking in the serene mountain atmosphere.
Our day ends at the charming hamlet of Machhermo, where we rest and prepare for the higher elevations ahead.
- Trekking: Approximately 6 hours
- Altitude gain/loss: +950 m / -350 m
- Final altitude: 4,400 m
- Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
- Accommodation: Lodge in Machhermo
DAY 7: TREKKING FROM MACHHERMO TO GOKYO (4,750 M)
As dawn breaks, the brilliant light reflected off the glaciers, and snowfields fill the valley, creating that unique clarity and magic only found at high altitude. Leaving Machhermo, we ascend gently through the upper valley, soon catching sight of the massive Ngozumpa Glacier, one of the largest in the Nepal Himalayas, with its towering 300-meter-thick moraine.
The trail follows a small side valley that runs along the glacier’s left flank, gradually leading us to the emerald-blue lakes of Gokyo. These stunning lakes are nestled beside the natural moraine dam, with spectacular views of Lobuche, Cholatse, and Taboche rising gracefully in the distance.
We arrive at the charming village of Gokyo, perched beside the largest of the lakes — a tranquil setting in the heart of the mountains, perfect for rest and reflection.
- Trekking: Approximately 5 hours
- Altitude gain/loss: +420 m / -150 m
- Final altitude: 4,750 m
- Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
- Accommodation: Lodge in Gokyo
DAY 8: TREKKING FROM GOYKO - GOKYO PEAK (5,280 M) - DRAGNAK (4,690 M)
This morning, we climb above Gokyo Lake to reach the summit of Gokyo Ri (5,360 m), crossing the 5,000-meter mark for the first time. After about 2.5 to 3 hours of ascent, we are rewarded with one of the most magnificent panoramas in the Himalayas, showcasing four of the world’s highest peaks — Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu.
The view is breathtaking: the south face of Cho Oyu, rising close by, glistens with hanging glaciers and cascading seracs that tumble onto the vast Ngozumpa Glacier, stretching nearly 17 kilometers down the valley.
After soaking in the views, we descend to Gokyo for lunch, then continue our journey toward Dragnak (Thangnak), a small settlement on the opposite side of the glacier. The crossing follows a marked trail of stone cairns, guiding us safely across the 1.5 km-wide moraine of rocks and ice. Upon arrival, we enjoy a well-earned rest at our lodge.
- Trekking: Approximately 6 hours
- Altitude gain/loss: +800 m / -700 m
- Final altitude: Approx. 4,690 m
- Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
- Accommodation: Lodge in Dragnak (Thangnak)
DAY 9: TREKKING FROM DRAGNAK - CHO LA (5420 M) - DZONGLA (4,830 M)
Today’s adventure takes us over the Cho La Pass (5,420 m) — one of the most iconic and challenging crossings in the Everest region. The ascent begins through two former glacial valleys, now barren and dramatic, separated by a long moraine ridge. The final climb to the pass involves a steep 300-meter ascent over rocky scree, but a well-defined trail helps guide the way between the towering peaks of Lobuche and Cholatse.
As we leave the shaded western slopes, we emerge into brilliant sunlight and a stunning high-mountain panorama. On the eastern side of the pass lies a small glacier, which we cross carefully, stepping over smooth, polished rocks. The descent opens onto the Chola Khola Valley, offering a spectacular view of the majestic pyramid of Ama Dablam, which dominates the skyline throughout the descent.
We continue down to Dzongla, a peaceful hamlet set on a picturesque plateau overlooking the valley — the perfect spot to rest after this rewarding day of adventure.
- Trekking: Approximately 7–8 hours
- Altitude gain/loss: +750 m / -600 m
- Final altitude: Approx. 4,820 m
- Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
- Accommodation: Lodge in Dzongla
DAY 10: TREKKING FROM DZONGLA — LOBUCHE ( 4,900M)
We begin our day with a gradual ascent along the mountainside, passing the serene Tshola Lake and continuing toward the Lobuche pasturelands. The trail offers stunning views of surrounding peaks and glaciers, immersing us fully in the crisp, high-mountain atmosphere of the upper Khumbu region.
From Lobuche, we continue our climb toward the Gorakshep lodges, the last settlement before Everest Base Camp, surrounded by a dramatic landscape of ice and rock.
- Trekking: Approximately 3 hours
- Altitude gain/loss: +440 m / -120 m
- Final altitude: Approx. 4,400 m
- Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
- Accommodation: Lodge in Lobuche
DAY 11: TREKKING FROM LABUCHE –EVEREST BASE CAMP - GOROKSHEP(5,100M)
We begin with a gentle climb along the edge of the glacier moraine descending from Everest, reaching the Gorak Shep lodge, where we will spend the night. After a rest and lunch, we set out for a day hike to Everest Base Camp, stepping deeper into the extraordinary high-mountain environment.
Along the way, we are surrounded by awe-inspiring peaks: the towering walls of Nuptse (7,861 m), carved with ice flutes and seracs; Pumori (7,165 m), a massive snow-covered peak rising 2,000 meters above the lodge; and the sprawling Khumbu Glacier filling the valley. The northern faces of Taboche and Ama Dablam frame the scene, while the imposing black pyramid of Everest rises majestically behind Nuptse’s ridges, completing this unforgettable panorama.
- Trekking: Approximately 6–7 hours
- Altitude gain/loss: +490 m / -200 m
- Final altitude: Approx. 5,120 m
- Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
- Accommodation: Lodge in Gorak Shep
DAY 12: TREKKING FROM GORAKSHEP - KALA PATTAR (5,545 M) - PHERICHEP (4,410 M)
We begin an early morning climb to Kala Pattar, timing our ascent to witness the sunrise illuminating the summit of Everest. Kala Pattar, a prominent viewpoint at 5,543 m, sits at the base of Pumori’s southern spur and offers an unparalleled perspective of the Khumbu highlands. Here, we pause in quiet reflection, surrounded by the majestic giants of the Himalayas, as the morning light gradually paints the ridged peaks, ice formations, and towering snow slopes in shades of orange, red, and sparkling white.
After soaking in the panorama, we descend toward Thokla and then turn toward Dingboche, following one of the wildest valleys of the Khumbu region. Along the way, the scenery continues to impress, with Island Peak, Ama Dablam, and distant Makalu dominating the skyline. The descent becomes steeper as we approach Deboche, with breathtaking views of Nuptse along the way.
- Trekking: Approximately 6–7 hours
- Altitude gain/loss: +470 m / -850 m
- Final altitude: Approx. 4,400 m
- Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
- Accommodation: Lodge in Pherichep
DAY 13: TREKKING FROM PHERICHE TO NAMCHE (3,860 M)
Today we begin a descent into more populated areas of the Khumbu Valley, following the sunny slopes with spectacular views of Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Kantega. The trail is dotted with mani walls and chortens, reflecting the rich local Buddhist culture.
We pass through two important villages: Pheriche and Panboche. In Panboche, a monastery perched among pines and junipers houses a unique curiosity — the scalp of a yeti. Continuing down the valley, the trail winds through pine and rhododendron forests, a natural habitat for the elusive musk deer, before ascending to the Tengboche Monastery. Founded in 1919, this sacred site sits on a ridge with a panoramic view of Ama Dablam, Nuptse, and Lhotse, making it a perfect belvedere.
Our journey then continues with a quick descent through a beautiful forest, crossing a footbridge at Phunki, followed by a gentle ascent and a balcony path that leads us back to Namche Bazaar.
- Trekking: Approximately 7 hours
- Altitude gain/loss: +450 m / -750 m
- Final altitude: Approx. 3,440 m
- Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
- Accommodation: Lodge in Namche Bazaar
DAY 14: TREKKING FROM NAMCHE - MONJO - LUKLA (2,850 M)
Today we begin our final day of trekking, gradually descending into the warmer lower valleys of the Dudh Kosi. The trail passes through lush wooded gorges and charming villages like Monjo and Phakding, offering one last glimpse of traditional Sherpa life.
We continue our descent to Lukla, where we take the time to thank our team of porters for their invaluable support throughout the trek. Although the descent can be challenging on the knees, the steadily lowering altitude makes breathing easier, and the sights of the valley provide a fitting end to our journey. We spend our last evening in the heart of Khumbu, reflecting on the adventure and memories made.
- Trekking: Approximately 6–7 hours
- Altitude gain/loss: +700 m / -1,300 m
- Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
- Accommodation: Lodge in Lukla
DAY 15: FLIGHT LUKLA - KATHMANDU
Your trek concludes with a flight from Lukla, either directly to Kathmandu or via Ramechhap Airport with a transfer to Kathmandu.
- If flying directly to Kathmandu: You’ll have a free day to relax or explore the city.
- If flying via Ramechhap: After a 4–5 hour drive and 15-minute flight, you’ll arrive in Kathmandu early in the afternoon.
Once in Kathmandu, you can wander through the vibrant Thamel district, browsing its colorful bazaars — perfect for last-minute souvenirs. Additionally, consider visiting the traditional village of Bhaktapur, renowned for its 17th-century architecture and timeless charm.
Note:
Flights to and from Lukla are weather-dependent. In case of delays, your flight may be postponed until the next day, requiring an extra night at the lodge in Lukla.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meals included: Breakfast
- Transfer:4–5 hours drive + 15 min flight (via Ramechhap)30 min drive + 45 min flight (direct to Kathmandu)
DAY 16: KATHMANDU
Today, you set out with your guide to explore the cultural treasures of the Kathmandu Valley. Your first stop is Pashupatinath Temple, the most important Hindu temple in Nepal, located on the sacred Bagmati River. The temple complex and its ghats provide a profound glimpse into Hindu rituals, including cremation ceremonies, offering a mystical and spiritual atmosphere.
Next, you visit Bodnath Stupa, one of the largest stupas in the world and a major Buddhist pilgrimage site in the Kathmandu region. Its grand dome and colorful prayer flags create a serene and spiritual ambiance.
Finally, you explore either the ancient royal city of Bhaktapur or Patan, both renowned for their Durbar Squares, intricate wooden pagoda temples, and rich Newar culture, providing a perfect conclusion to your cultural journey in Nepal.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Lodge in Kathmandu
DAY 17: FINAL DEPARTURE TO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Enjoy free time in Kathmandu depending on your flight schedule. At the appropriate time, our representative will transfer you to the airport for your onward journey, marking the end of your unforgettable adventure in Nepal.
We hope to welcome you on another journey soon. Thank you and safe travels!
- Meals included: Breakfast