Everest Base Camp Leisurely Trek – 16 Days

Upon arrival at Kathmandu International Airport, you will receive a warm welcome by our representative from Everest Dreams Nepal Team. After checking in at your hotel, the rest of the day is free for you to explore and get acquainted with your surroundings.

After breakfast, embark on a full-day sightseeing tour of the Kathmandu Valley, also known as the "city of glory." Explore the rich cultural and religious heritage of the valley, starting with Durbar Square.

This historical area is filled with ancient temples and palaces, showcasing remarkable architecture. Don't miss Kal Bhairav, Hanuman Dhoka, Taleju Temple, Kasthamandap, and Kumari Ghar, the residence of the Living Goddess.

Next, visit Swoyambhunath Stupa, popularly known as the monkey temple. This ancient Buddhist stupa is one of the oldest in the world and offers a stunning view of the Kathmandu Valley and the surrounding mountain ranges. Continue your journey to Pashupatinath Temple, a significant Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River, this temple complex is open only to Hindus, but tourists can admire it from the eastern side of the river.

Conclude your tour with a visit to Boudhanath, one of the largest Buddhist stupas globally. This impressive structure is adorned with four pairs of watchful eyes, symbolizing the vigilance for human prosperity and righteousness. Take in the serene ambiance and observe the devout pilgrims and prayer rituals.

Experience the vibrant cultural tapestry and spiritual essence of Kathmandu Valley through these iconic landmarks.

Begin your adventure with an exhilarating early morning flight from Kathmandu Airport to Lukla, where you'll be captivated by the awe-inspiring views of majestic mountains. Lukla, a charming Sherpa settlement perched atop a mountain, marks the starting point of your trek.

From Lukla, set out towards Phakding as you descend alongside the Dudh Koshi River. Along the way, you'll pass through picturesque settlements like Chheplung, Ghat, Sano, and Thulo Gumela, adorned with beautiful chortens and monasteries such as Drangdrak Gompa and Pema Choling Gompa. Take in the breathtaking vistas of the sacred peaks of Kumbila and the sister summit, Kusum Kanguru, which holds great religious significance as it remains unconquered.

Arriving at Phakding, a serene Sherpa village nestled at an elevation of 2,610 meters, find respite in your cozy tea house. After resting, take the opportunity to explore the surrounding area, immersing yourself in the natural beauty and cultural charm.

Embark on this thrilling journey from Lukla to Phakding, where the wonders of the Himalayas and the warmth of the Sherpa community await you.

Today, your journey takes you to the vibrant town of Namche Bazaar, known as the "Sherpa capital." Start your day with a hearty breakfast and begin your trek.

Traverse the trail, passing through the charming hamlets of Zamphute and Tok Tok, where the morning sun illuminates the majestic Thamserku peak, creating a dazzling sight.

Cross several suspension bridges, including the iconic Hillary Suspension Bridge, as you follow the Dudh Koshi, a glacial river that flows with milky-white waters.

Along the way, make sure to arrange and have your permits inspected before reaching the entrance of Sagarmatha National Park, a distinguished UNESCO World Heritage site.

After the permit check, continue your ascent, hiking alongside the Dudh Koshi River until you reach Jorsale, where you can take a brief rest.

From Jorsale, embark on an uphill trail that leads to a remarkable high bridge spanning the gorge of the Dudh Koshi River. Just before reaching this bridge, you'll witness the confluence of the Dudh Koshi and its tributary, the Bhote Koshi.

As you ascend, the breathtaking sight of Mount Everest reveals itself, peering over the Lhotse-Nuptse ridge. From here, Namche Bazaar is only a short hike away.

Prepare for an exciting day of exploration as you make your way to Namche Bazaar, immersing yourself in the Sherpa culture and soaking up the panoramic mountain views.

Today is your acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar, a crucial step as you ascend to higher altitudes. As your body adjusts to the thinner air, take advantage of the settlement's numerous vantage points for acclimatization hikes.

At dawn and dusk, don't miss the opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of the Himalayas. As the sun's rays grace the snow-covered peaks of Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Kongde, and Lhotse, prepare to be captivated by their breathtaking beauty.

To delve deeper into the local culture, make sure to visit the Sherpa Culture Museum. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the Sherpa people as you discover their customs, traditions, and way of life.

In the afternoon, indulge in the culinary delights that Namche Bazaar has to offer. Explore a variety of exceptional bakeries, cafés, restaurants, and shops that are not commonly found along most trekking trails in the country.

Treat yourself to unique flavors and experiences that will make your time in Namche truly memorable.

The trail from Phortse to Pangboche today is not the primary route, so it's important to exercise caution as you navigate through its narrow pathways with occasional steep drops.

Take your time and proceed with care. Pangboche, a significant settlement inhabited throughout the year, comprises two villages known as upper and lower Pangboche.

Lower Pangboche offers a range of lodging options, making it convenient for trekkers. Here, you'll also find picturesque stone-walled agricultural fields lining the riverside. In upper Pangboche, you'll encounter the Riwa Gompa, the oldest monastery in the Khumbu region.

While most trekkers pass through lower Pangboche on their ascent, they typically visit upper Pangboche on their return from Kala Patthar.

Once you reach Pangboche, make your way to the designated tea house and take a well-deserved rest.

After enjoying an early breakfast, begin your trek along the Imja Khola. The trail ascends towards the village of Shomare, gradually leading you above the tree line. As you venture higher, the landscape transforms into a dry and arid terrain adorned with scattered patches of conifers, shrubs, and occasional pasturelands.

Continue your journey, passing through the grazing lands and quaint stone huts that dot the path. You'll come across the settlements of Orsho and Tsuro Wog, each offering glimpses of local life in this remote region. From there, the trail descends towards a point near the confluence of the Imja Khola and Khumbu Khola rivers.

Climbing a low ridge, you'll eventually arrive at Dingboche, a sprawling hamlet situated in a cold and windy area. Even in the summer months, temperatures can drop below freezing during the night. Prepare yourself for the chilly conditions and embrace the unique ambiance of this rugged mountain village.

On your second day of acclimatization, take advantage of the settlement's diverse vantage points, which are perfect for acclimatization excursions. Following breakfast, embark on a hike to the breathtaking Chukhung valley.

As you ascend along the Imja Khola valley, you'll find yourself surrounded by a landscape shaped by glacial moraines, with towering and formidable mountains as your backdrop.

Head towards the Chukhung Ri, a rocky hill located behind the village. From this elevated vantage point, you'll be rewarded with awe-inspiring views of prominent peaks such as Lhotse, Makalu, Cho You, Cholatse, Taboche, and Lobuche West, Lobuche East. Allow yourself to be captivated by the majestic beauty of these magnificent mountains.

Afterward, take the time to explore the charming settlement of Chukhung. Immerse yourself in the local atmosphere and appreciate the unique culture and lifestyle of this mountain community.

As you start on today's trail towards Lobuche, prepare to be enveloped in the awe-inspiring embrace of the Himalayas. With majestic mountains surrounding you from all directions, your imagination will be captured by the sheer grandeur of your surroundings.

Passing through Dusa, you'll come across uninhabited stone huts belonging to herdsmen. Continuing on, you'll make your way to Dughla, and then to Chupki Lhara. Here, you'll encounter large piles of stones adorned with prayer flags, serving as a poignant memorial for the mountaineers who lost their lives in their quest to conquer peaks like Mt. Everest and others in the region.

After a brief ascent, you'll be treated to a view of the pristine blue waters of Chola Lakes. From Chupki Lara, the trail descends along the Khumbu glacier moraine, offering an opportunity to walk alongside the majestic peaks of Khumbutse, Lingtren, and Pumori.

As you continue, the trail meanders alongside a murmuring stream, leading you to the settlement of Lobuche. Take a moment to appreciate the serenity of this picturesque place as you reflect on the incredible journey you've undertaken amidst these magnificent mountains.

Today's trek is demanding and requires an early start. As you set out, you'll pass through high Himalayan pasturelands and grassy terrains adorned with scattered boulders. Throughout the journey, you'll be treated to magnificent views of towering snowy mountains that form an imposing wall ahead.

After ascending approximately 60 meters (200 feet), you'll reach the top of the lateral moraine wall of the Changri glacier, arriving at a leveled spot known as Thangma Riju. From this vantage point, prepare to be mesmerized by a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the Himalayan giants. Taboche, Lobuche, Pumori, and the rest of the Mahalangur Himal peaks will unfold before you, while the eastern horizon offers glimpses of Tibet and Nuptse.

Continuing on, the trail crosses the moraine of the Changri glacier and later joins the Khumbu glacier from the west. Be extra cautious as you traverse steep and rocky slopes to reach Gorak Shep. Upon arriving, you'll catch your first glimpse of Kala Patthar, a renowned viewpoint in the region.

Leaving your heavy backpack behind at Gorak Shep, proceed towards Everest Base Camp. Follow the path alongside the banks of the shallow blue waters of Gorak Shep lake, with the Changtse peak and Lho La peak within close proximity. As you navigate through glaciers, icefalls, frozen pools of meltwater, exposed icy walls, and large boulders, you'll steadily make your way to Everest Base Camp. Take your time to explore the base camp before descending back to Gorak Shep for the night, where you can rest and reflect on the remarkable journey.

Today, you'll embark on the journey to the renowned vantage point of Kala Patthar, a popular spot frequented by trekkers on this trail. Begin your day early, enjoying a light breakfast before setting off. Traverse through the wide sandy bed of a dried lake, following a steep zigzag trail that gradually ascends. Along the way, be prepared to witness breathtaking views of Lingtren, Khumbutse, and Changtse.

As you continue to climb higher, a magnificent panorama of the Khumbu glacier and the imposing Nuptse massif will unfold before your eyes. Pushing forward, you'll make the final stretch towards the summit of Kala Patthar, where an awe-inspiring sight awaits. From this vantage point, you'll be treated to endless rows of majestic mountains, including the towering peak of Mt. Everest itself. Take a moment to soak in the beauty of this remarkable landscape before beginning your descent.

Retrace your steps back to Gorak Shep and then continue onwards to Lobuche. From Dughla, you'll veer onto a different trail that leads towards Pheriche, following the path alongside the Khumbu Khola. Once you reach Pheriche, make your way to the designated tea house where you can rest and rejuvenate after a fulfilling day of trekking.

Leaving Pheriche behind, the trail leads you on a descent towards Tsuro Wog. As you cross a bridge over the Khumbu Khola, you'll continue your downward journey. Passing through various settlements, including Orsho, Shomare, and upper Pangboche, you'll eventually arrive at Tengboche.

Tengboche village is renowned for being home to the world-famous Tengboche monastery. This magnificent monastery is the largest in the Everest region and offers stunning views of Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku as a breathtaking backdrop. Take some time to explore the area, immersing yourself in the spiritual ambiance of the monastery and soaking in the majestic mountain views. Afterward, check-in at your designated tea house, where you can relax and unwind in comfort.

Leaving Tengboche behind, continue your trek towards Phunki Tenga, gradually descending through the lush surroundings. The trail will take you through a subtropical wet hill forest adorned with vibrant rhododendron blossoms. As you make your way through this enchanting forest, you'll encounter a delightful mix of coniferous trees, oak groves, and the delicate beauty of orchids and moss-covered trees. Miles of undergrowth add to the natural allure of the surroundings.

Passing through Sanasa and Kyangjuma, you'll eventually reach the vibrant hub of Namche Bazar. Upon arrival, make your way to your accommodation and settle in. Take some time to rest and rejuvenate after the day's trek. Later, seize the opportunity to explore the area, as Namche Bazar offers a variety of restaurants and pubs where you can indulge in delicious cuisine and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of this bustling mountain town.

Begin your journey today by setting off towards Namche Bazaar. The trail takes you on a downhill hike, following the scenic route along the Dudh Koshi River. As you make your way, you'll cross multiple suspension bridges, each offering a thrilling experience as you traverse the river.

Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to pass through ancient monasteries, immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the region. The trail will also lead you through charming settlements, where you can catch glimpses of local life and traditions.

Finally, you'll arrive at Lukla, a significant milestone in your trekking adventure. Take some time to rest and recharge, reflecting on the incredible journey you've undertaken in the mountains. Celebrate your last day in this remarkable setting, savoring the memories you've created amidst the stunning landscapes of the Himalayas.

After enjoying an early morning breakfast, make your way to the Lukla Airport for your flight back to Kathmandu. The scenic flight from Lukla to Kathmandu promises to be a delightful experience, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you'll be transferred to your accommodation, where you can settle in and relax. The valley is brimming with fascinating tourist attractions, giving you the opportunity to embark on a guided tour or explore the city at your own pace.

In the evening, join in for a special dinner program that serves as a memorable conclusion to your adventure. Gather with your guide and our representatives to celebrate the remarkable journey you've had, reflecting on the experiences and memories you've gained along the way.

Today you’ll be returning back to your country. The Everest Dreams Nepal representative will drop you at the airport three hours before your flight departs. If you prefer to stay longer, you can consult us for short tours such as game drives at National parks, rafting, mountain biking, Tibet, India, or Bhutan tours, etc.

If you have any inquiries or require assistance and further information about this trip or any other trips, please feel free to contact Everest Dreams.

NOTE: All of the aforementioned trekking hours are approximations and should only be used as a general guideline.