Day 01: Arrival: Kathmandu

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport; met by our representatives and transferred to the hotel.

Free for the rest of the day with a small brief in the evening about the trek.

Overnight: Hotel

 Day 02: A.M. Sightseeing; P.M. Trek Preparation

A.M.: In the morning, explore Kathmandu Valley. Visit the ancient Durbar Square and a peek into Nepal’s rich history and a visit to Boudha Stupa, another UNESCO World Heritage.

 P.M.: The rest of the day is left free to pack and purchase any last-minute essentials for the trek.

Overnight: Hotel

 Day 03: Flight: Lukla            Trek: Phakding (2652m)

Early morning flight to Lukla; steal glimpses of the Himalayas as the plane maneuvers through the valleys and hills making your way to Lukla – the gateway to the Everest Region.

Upon arrival, meet the porters. We follow the trail towards the north-east. We cross a suspension bridge to leave Lukla behind. Pass small picturesque villages of Chaunrikharka and Ghat ultimately descending to reach Phakding, by the raging Dudh Koshi River.

Overnight: Phakding                         

Trek Duration: 3 hours.

 Day 04: Namche Bazaar (3447m)

Pursue the trail with the raging Dudh Kosi on your right. Cross Dudh Kosi at Benkar and view glimpses of snow-capped peaks Kusum Kanguru (6369m) and Thamserku (6623m). Steep climb for 20 mins to reach Monjo – our lunch stop.

We enter Sagarmatha National Park after having our permits cleared. After crossing the river again, we hit a busy trail with small villages and pine forests. A Steady climb is accompanied by the first glimpses of the mighty three ahead – Everest (8848m), Mt. Nuptse (7879m), and Lhotse (8383m).

We reach Namche Bazaar – a bustling little prosperous town in the Khumbu region surrounded by beautiful mountain peaks.

Overnight: Namche                            

Trek Duration: 5 – 5 ½ hours.

 Day 05: Rest and acclimatization at Namche Bazaar

Early morning wake up and walk up to the ridge above Namche to get a glimpse of Mt. Everest amidst other towering Himalayan Giants.

Later visit the famous Bazaar, the hub of the Khumbu. Many traders from Tibet are also seen mingling with the local populace.

Overnight at Namche Bazaar.

Duration of Trek-3 ½ hours.

 Day 06:   Namche to PhortseDrengka (3675m) Via Mon La (3973m)

After a leisurely breakfast, we trek to Phortse Drengka. Another beautiful place to discover in the Himalayas, The trek immediately begins with a steep climb on a cobbled stone steps from Namche bazaar for about 15 minutes to the top of the ridge, from here the trail winds through gently with magnificent views of the Himalaya especially of the Mt. Amadablam (6,812 m), Thamserku (6,623 m) and Kangtaiga.

Everest soon looms in the distance with Nuptse and Lhotse. The memorial for Tenzing Sherpa also lies along the trail. It was set up in 2003 by Mr. Tashi Tenzing in honor of his grandfather. The view of the mountains is awe-inspiring and a stop here to take photographs is rewarding. After spending some time at the chorten, we continue towards ,Sanasa which also provides an amphitheater views of the Amadablam (6,696 m) and Kangtaiga (6,779 m) flanked by the towering view of the Sagarmatha (Everest), Lhotse and Nuptse (weather permitting) look for the blood pheasant and Impeyan pheasant in the undergrowth. After a short descent, there is a trail junction which meets the main Tengboche trail just before Sanasa.

We take the left side trail and trek through the pine forests. The trail slowly begins to ascend we contour climbing steeply on the hillside till we arrive at Mong la, a pass at 3,973 m, a few tea houses, a chorten and prayer flags. It is an ideal place for lunch with superb views of the Himalayas all around

After lunch and some rest, we continue our trek towards PhortseDrengka. Since we have done most of the climbing, now from here the trail steeply descends all the way to PhortseDrengka through a dense pine and rhododendron forest, a descent of around 200 meters and takes about 1 ½ hour.

Look out for the Yak traffic and remember to stay on the wall side in order to avoid being pushed off the hillside. Upon arrival, we check in to the lodges which are located in close proximity to the river. Rest of the day is free to explore or can take a rest in the quiet, serene environment

Overnight at PhortseDrengka.

Trek duration: 5 to 5 ½ hrs

 Day 07:   PhortseDrengka to Dole (4040m)

After breakfast, climb out of PhortseTenga to meet the main trail from Mon La, that leads towards the Gokyo Valley and into Dole. The trail ascends gently with Cho Oyu (The Turquoise Mountain) coming to sight for the first time as we reach the Army post half an hour into the trail. The tree line starts to shrink to alpine shrub as we ascend with cranberry bushes stuck to the ground. The waterfalls along the trail add to the beauty of the terrain as we approach Dole, a small village with just a few Lodges. You will realize that the trek today is shorter than the days we have had had and we will soon be in Dole for lunch.

After lunch, we will do an acclimatization walk to the hill close to the village from where we have great views of the surrounding mountains.

Overnight at in Dole.

Trek duration:4 ½ to 5 hrs

 Day 08:   Dole to Machermo (4,400 m)

After breakfast trek to Dole. The first hour involves steady climbing before the trail contours to Luza (4,370 m), a small grazing spot with potato fields. From here Machermo is not far and only involves a short climb from here. Today’s trail offers some magnificent views of the Himalayas and we need to walk slowly as we are now over 4000 meters in altitude and also need to be more cautious about our health as now we are more prone to Altitude sickness. The view of Cho Oyu in the distance from the hill ahead of Machermo should keep inspired and wanting to get closer to our destination Gokyo and the Renjo-la Pass. We are now only a day’s walk away from Gokyo and only three hundred meters away.

After lunch, hike up to the hill above the village and then descend to the IPPG (International Porters Progress Group) Porter Shelter where we may also listen to a lecture on Altitude sickness, it’s prevention and consequences. (Note: The Porter Shelter was built by CAN (Community Action Nepal) – Doug Scott’s Charity.)  (Note: Today is another short day to allow time for acclimatization.)

Overnight at Machermo.

 Trek duration:4 ½ to 5 Hrs

 Day 09:   Machermo to Gokyo (4795m)

A steady climb out of Machermo soon leads to a broader trail as we pass through the village of Lapharma, a small settlement with wide green grazing grounds for Yaks and Dzopkios. As the end of the valley, we will traverse the trail along the rocky cliff towards Gokyo. After a short but steady climb, arrive at the snout of the Ngozungpa Glacier which feeds the Dudh Kosi and to reach the first of the Gokyo lakes. From here the trail is much gentler and ascends gradually along the moraines as we approach the second lake and then the third lake at the banks of which is situated the village of Gokyo. Gokyo village consists of about nine Lodges with a backdrop of Cho Oyu. The place is simply spellbinding. Upon arrival, check into the Lodge.

After lunch, walk towards the Ngozungpa Glacier which is located behind the village. The walk along the edge of the lake will help our acclimatization. (Note: Please do not forget to carry your headlamp and warm clothes as the wind picks up and can be a freezing experience. Both the seventh, eighth and ninth day are short trek days in order to get acclimatized with the altitude that is gained steadily. Today on the trail we get magnificent views of Mt. Cho-Yu, Mt. NangpaGosai, Mt. Nzogumpa Kang and Khasung Range)

 Overnight at Gokyo.Trek duration:5 to 5 ½ hrs

Day 10:   Excursion to Gokyo RI (5,483 m) and back

An early morning rise today is sure to make you feel the chill of the mountains. Today we trek to the top of Gokyo Ri which has one of the most spectacular views of Mt. Everest and three other 8,000 meter peaks. The climb starts from across one of the rivers that feed the lake. The climb is steady and demanding but the reward for the hard work is more than just satisfactory.

As you get halfway, Everest comes to view and so does the sun it starts to warm you up. Looking down the valley, the view of Tawache and the lakes are spectacular. Once on the top, the views will be your reward for the hard work and what a reward! Everest (8,848 m), showing more of its northern flank Makalu (8,463 m) further to the east and Cho Oyu (8,201 m) towards the north make up one of the most mesmerizing views you couldn’t ask for more.

When we are done with the views we descend to the village taking in all that we can.  The rest of the day is free to explore more of the village and one may opt to walk towards the 5^th Lake.

It is also a good plan to just great to relax as you can soak yourself in the Himalayan sun.

Overnight at Gokyo.

Trek duration:4 to 4 ½ hrs

 Day 11:   Gokyo to Chyugima (5040m)

After breakfast, the trail initially leads back south before leaving the main route; a short climb leads to the crossing of the jumbled moraine of the Nzogumpa Glacier. Lunch at Dragnag. This hard scrabbling country offers various equally demanding routes until you reach the campsite tucked in below the pass.

Overnight at the lodge in Chyugima.

Trek duration:3 to 3 ½ hrs

 Day 12:   Chyugima to Dzong La (4843m)

An early start is recommended. The route lies over the large, uncomfortable broken and scree before starting up the slab rock of the pass itself. Depending on the time of the year the route to the summit snowfield of the Cho La pass may or may not be covered by snow. The decent starts gently before steep slope downwards. The broken ground route leads to the few stone huts that make up the Dzong La.

Overnight at Dzongla.

Trek duration:5 ½ to 6 hrs

Day 13:   Dzongla to Lobuche (4,931 m)

An ill-defined track traverses across to join the main trail coming up from Pheriche. On the way, you can watch the beautiful view of the Mt. Cholatse (6,442 m) back on the west side of the route. A steep ascent leads to the terminal moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. The stark and rugged beauty creates almost a moonscape. The campsite at Lobuche situated at the windswept valley with the enchanting views of the Tawache (6,501 m) and Nuptse (7,879 m).

Overnight at Lobuche.

 Trek duration:5 to 5 ½ hrs

 Day 14: Gorakshep (5160m ) / Everest Base Camp (5360m) and back

From Lobuche, a short climb brings one to another valley. Travel along the Khumbu Glacier through the jumbled moraines and scattered rocks. The trail continues to slowly contour on the open landscape through ablation and after about an hour, there is a steep ascent for about 20 minutes. Climb slowly to a ridge and then continue on a trail of rocks caused by rockslides. On a clear day Mt. Everest can be seen looming behind Nuptse. Arrive at the ridge above Gorakshep and then descend to Gorakshep, a settlement with 2 tea houses to stay for overnight. This was the base camp for the 1952 Swiss Everest expedition. In 1953 the British Everest expedition called this “lake camp’. Gorakshep or “graveyard of the crows”, has a small lake that is usually frozen and several monuments to climbers who have died during various Everest expedition.

After a quick break, travel along the jumbled moraines and scattered rocks passing by the memorials of Rob Hall and Yasuko Namba and others who perished during the Mt. Everest disaster of 1996.

The trail continues on a ridge from where a small glimpse of Mt. Everest can be seen. At the end of the ridge, a scrabbling descent leads to the entry into the Khumbu Glacier. The trail through the glacier is an interesting one in that one can actually feel as if one is inside a fridge with the cold seeping from all sides. The Everest Base Camp is also the site for the base camp for Lhotse and Nuptse. It is not actually a specific site as various expeditions select different locations for a semi-permanent camp during their assault on the mountains. However the highlight of the trip to this place is the sight of the Khumbu icefall and the trek along the Khumbu Icefall is an interesting and an exhilarating one. Later return to Gorakshep

Overnight at Gorakshep.

Duration of Trek- 7 ½ – 8 ½ hours.

 Day 15:   Day trip to Everest Base Camp (5360m) and back to Lobuche

After early breakfast, take the left-hand side trail and head straight up the hill to Kala Pattar (5545m) for views of Mt. Everest. The trek up to the top is an arduous one and takes about an hour to reach it. The late afternoon is the Best time to view Mt. Everest from this vantage point as the sun is behind the observer and directly on the mountains in front. The climb to the Kala Pattar though tough is well worth it as the views from here are breathtaking. The giants of the earth are all around Pumori (7145m), Everest (8848m), China’s peak Changtse (7553m), Nuptse (7855m), Lhotse(8516m), AmaDablam and many others. Later return to Gorakshep.

After some rest set out backtracking on scattered rocks and jumbled moraines to return to Lobuche

Overnight at Lobuche.

Duration of Trek- 7– 7 ½ hours.

Day 16:   Thyangboche (3867 m)

Having been consistently at high altitude above 4200m most trekkers welcome the thought of returning to warmer, softer climbs and the days walk to Thyagboche is a delightful way of doing so.

The route starts back is a gradual ascent along the flanks of the hills below the village before a steep drop to the Dudh Koshi. A little further, the route joins the main trail coming from Pheriche. The route then passes through the village of Pangboche (3985m).

Continue to backtrack and then descend to the spectacular little bridge over the Dudh Kosi river and head through the fir and rhododendron forest for a lovely afternoon’s walk to the meadows of Devouche. From here, there is a short climb before reaching Thyangboche.

Overnight at Pangboche.

 Duration of Trek- 6 ½ – 7hours.

Day 17: Backtrack to Namche Bazaar

After breakfast head downhill through the beautiful forest of juniper, rhododendron, and fir to PhunkTanga. After a short break, we cross the Dudh Kosi and ascend steeply to Trashinga. If going up was tough it is equally hard to get the footing and walk downhill. From here the trail contours high above the valley to Shanasa where we again stop for a short break. Here Tibetan traders, resident in the area, have numerous ”artifacts” and worthwhile traditional souvenirs for sale. From Sanasa, head to the end of the village and then take the right-hand trail which is a lovely easy trail to reach Namche Bazaar.

Overnight at Namche Bazaar.

Duration of Trek- 5 ½- 6 ½ hours.

Day 18:   Trek to Lukla

After lunch, head towards the end of the bazaar and we descend steeply to the river, cross the great bridge again, and then continue back to Jorsale where we leave the national park before continuing on to our lodge at Monjo.

It is interesting to watch others starting enthusiastically on the trek ahead as we head down to the village of Phakding. Today we retrace our steps along the Dudh Kosi, crossing to the western bank at Benkar. It is a beautiful and easy walk through blue pine and rhododendron forest, back-dropped with views of Kusum Kangaru.

After lunch at Phakding and in the afternoon we ascend out of the river valley back to the airstrip and our lodge accommodation at Lukla. It is a delightful ending to the trip as one enters into this busy village of Lukla. In the evening, a farewell dinner may be followed by a few celebratory drinks and dancing with our Sherpa companions

Overnight at Lukla.

 Duration of Trek- 6 ½ hours.

 Day 19:   Lukla / Kathmandu by Flight

After a hearty breakfast, board the 45-minute flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival meet, assist and transfer to the hotel.

The rest of the day is Free.

Overnight at the hotel.

 Day 20:   Free day in Kathmandu

Free day in Kathmandu to rest, shop or go for sightseeing of choice.

Overnight at the hotel.

 Day 21:   Final departure

Free for final minute packing and shopping until transfer to the airport for final departure.

** End of Arrangements**

Note: Please bear in mind that all Trek and Drive duration are approximate times.