On the inaugural day of their adventure, the journey commenced with a flight from the bustling city of Kathmandu to the remote airstrip of Lukla, nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas. Excitement mingled with anticipation as the travelers embarked on this awe-inspiring expedition. The short but exhilarating flight offered panoramic views of the rugged terrain below, providing a tantalizing glimpse of the challenges and wonders that lay ahead.
Upon touchdown in Lukla, the group wasted no time, setting out on foot towards their first destination, Phakding. The trek commenced amidst breathtaking scenery, with snow-capped peaks piercing the cerulean sky above, and the melodious rush of mountain streams accompanying their journey. As they navigated the winding trails, each step brought them closer to the heart of the Himalayas, igniting a sense of camaraderie and determination within the group. With each passing mile, the travelers embraced the natural beauty surrounding them, forging unforgettable memories amidst the rugged grandeur of the Everest region.
Second Day of the trek begins with an invigorating journey from Phakding to Namche Bazar, offering adventurers a deeper immersion into the rugged beauty of the Himalayas. The trail winds through picturesque landscapes, tracing the banks of the Dudh Koshi River and crossing several suspension bridges adorned with colorful prayer flags, adding a spiritual charm to the journey. As trekkers ascend, they are greeted by breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks peeking through lush pine forests. The route presents varying terrain, from gentle inclines to challenging ascents, providing both physical exertion and moments of awe-inspiring tranquility. Namche Bazar, a vibrant Sherpa town nestled amidst the mountains, awaits at the day’s end, offering a warm welcome and a chance to rest, refuel, and immerse oneself in the unique culture of the region.
On third Day of this Trek, adventurers are afforded a much-needed break for rest and acclimatization in the bustling mountain town of Namche Bazaar. Positioned at a significant altitude, this day serves as a crucial period for the body to adjust to the increasing elevation. Participants are encouraged to explore the winding streets and vibrant markets of Namche Bazaar, immersing themselves in the rich cultural tapestry of the region. Amidst the backdrop of snow-capped peaks and majestic vistas, individuals have the opportunity to engage with local Sherpa communities, gaining insight into their traditions and way of life. This day allows adventurers to rejuvenate both physically and mentally, preparing them for the challenges that lie ahead on their Himalayan journey.
On Fourth Day of the trek, adventurers embark on a journey from the bustling Namche Bazaar to the serene village of Thame. Leaving behind the vibrant markets and cozy lodges of Namche, hikers traverse through verdant landscapes adorned with rhododendron forests and cascading streams. The trail gradually ascends, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, including the majestic Everest. As trekkers advance, they encounter traditional Sherpa settlements, where locals tend to fields and livestock amidst breathtaking mountain vistas. Crossing suspension bridges over roaring Bhote Koshi rivers adds an element of thrill to the expedition. Finally, reaching Thame, a quaint Himalayan hamlet steeped in history and culture, marks the end of a rewarding day’s journey, where weary adventurers can unwind and soak in the tranquility of the remote mountain landscape.
Fifth Day of the trek embarks from Thame, a quaint village nestled in the rugged terrain of the Himalayas, and continues towards Lungden, situated at an elevation of 4300 meters above sea level. The journey traverses through breathtaking landscapes characterized by towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and meandering trails that wind through valleys adorned with colorful flora. Trekkers navigate through narrow pathways, crossing rustic bridges that span over glistening streams fed by melting glaciers. As they ascend higher, the air grows thinner, and the surrounding vistas become even more awe-inspiring. The trek demands both physical endurance and mental fortitude, yet the unparalleled beauty of the Himalayas serves as a constant source of motivation. Upon reaching Lungden, adventurers are greeted with a sense of accomplishment and are rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, offering a glimpse into the majesty of the natural world.
Sixth Day of the trek begins with a challenging ascent through the High Pass, starting from Lungden and culminating at Renjo-La, standing at an imposing altitude of 5390 meters. Trekkers are greeted with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks as they navigate through the rugged terrain and icy slopes. The journey through Renjo-La offers a test of endurance and determination, rewarding adventurers with a sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit. Descending from the pass, the trail leads to the tranquil village of Gokyo, nestled at an altitude of 4400 meters. Surrounded by towering mountains and glacial lakes, Gokyo provides a serene backdrop for trekkers to rest and rejuvenate after conquering the formidable Renjo-La.
Day 07 begins with an exhilarating ascent to Gokyo Ri, standing at an impressive altitude of 5483 meters. The trek offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, rewarding adventurers with a panoramic vista that encompasses some of the world’s highest summits. As trekkers reach the summit of Gokyo Ri, they are greeted by the awe-inspiring sight of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu, among others, standing majestically against the backdrop of the azure sky. After soaking in the unparalleled beauty and capturing memories through photographs, the descent follows, leading trekkers back to the comfort of lower altitudes, where they can rest and reflect on the remarkable journey of the day.
Day 08 of the trek entails a journey from Gokyo to Phortse, offering adventurers a scenic route through the breathtaking landscapes of the Everest region. The day begins with an early start, as trekkers set out from the tranquil village of Gokyo, nestled amidst towering peaks and shimmering glacial lakes. The trail winds its way through rocky terrain and verdant valleys, providing ample opportunities to soak in the awe-inspiring vistas of snow-capped mountains and pristine alpine meadows. Along the way, trekkers may encounter local Sherpa communities, their traditional stone houses dotting the landscape, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region. As the day progresses, the trail gradually descends, leading towards the charming village of Phortse, where weary trekkers can rest and rejuvenate amidst the warm hospitality of the locals, reflecting on the day’s adventures beneath the shadow of the mighty Himalayas.
On Day 09 of the trek, adventurers commence their journey from Phortse towards Dingboche, situated at an altitude of 4350 meters. The path meanders through the rugged terrain of the Khumbu region, presenting trekkers with awe-inspiring vistas of towering peaks and serene valleys. As they ascend further, the air grows thinner, necessitating a steady pace and ample hydration to combat altitude sickness. Along the trail, trekkers may encounter local Sherpa communities, their colorful prayer flags fluttering in the mountain breeze, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of the Himalayas. Upon reaching Dingboche, adventurers can relish the satisfaction of conquering another leg of their journey, while also anticipating the breathtaking landscapes and challenges that lie ahead on their trek through the majestic Himalayan landscape.
The three or four scattered stone and slated huts provide in the summer months the base for good high ground grazing but during the rest of the year this huts are run as tea house for trekkers. The path from Dingboche is ill-defined but follows the main line of the valley ascending gently towards the Ama Dablam to the high ridge leading to the difficult Amphu Labtse Pass (5780m) on the right and the massive flank of the Nuptse (7890m) on the left.
It takes two hours from Dingboche to reach Chukung and an early start would allow plenty of time to get a clear view of the famous south face of Lhotse (8501m) towards the north and the Island Peak (6189m) the most famous peak among the trekkers on the east end of the valley.
The trail to Lobuche starts with an ascent to a ridge and then continues to contour along the ridge until it joins the main trail coming up from Periche and the trail from Cho la pass on to the left. On the way you can watch the beautiful view of the Mt. Cholatese (6442m) back on the Westside of the route and Mt. Amadablam to the rear. After arrival at the ridge, descend, for about ten minutes, cross a bridge and arrive at Thugla for lunch. After a quick lunch, there is a very steep ascent for about one hour to the ridge where there is a Sherpa memorial in remembrance to those brave mountaineers who died during expeditions. The memorial chortens dots the skyline facing the mountains and overlooking the valley below. Further on the trail leads to the terminal moraine of the Khumbu Glacier with views of Pumori or Widow’s Peak in the foreground. The stark and the rugged beauty create almost a moonscape. Lobuche is reached after another hour of steady trekking through the moraine and is suitated in a wind swept valley with the enchanting views of the Tawatse (6501m) and Nuptse (7855m).
Dinner and Overnight at Lobuche.
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 an 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. This was the base camp for the 1952 Swiss Everest expedition. In 1953 the British Everest expedition called this “lake camp’. Gork Shep 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. Lunch at Gorakshep.
After lunch, 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), Ama Dablam and many others. Later return to Gorakshep. 3 – Hrs.
Dinner and overnight at Gorakshep.
After breakfast set out backtracking on scattered rocks and jumbled moraines to return to Lobuche which takes about 2 ½ hours. Cross the stream and then head towards the Sherpa Memorial for an hour before descending to to Thugla. The going is more easier as we lose altitude. After lunch, cross the Thugla bridge and climb the ridge before descending on a level trail in an open landscape to Periche which is reached in about an hour. Dinner and Overnight at Periche.
After breakfast, set out through the village, cross the river on a wooden bridge and ascend to a ridge. Descend along the flanks of the hills to join the main trail coming from Dingboche. The route then passes through the village of Pangboche (3985m), an ideal place for a lunch break. 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 it is a steep 45 minute ascent to Thyangboche. 6 hrs.
The decent to the Imja Khola and the small village of Phunki (3250m) with its water powered Prayer Wheels takes about one and half hour. The original bridge built by Sir Edmund Hillary was washed away when a flood caused by the land side from the Ama Dablam caused a flooding in this region. Cross the river over the smaller bridge and start the climb towards Khumjung. As the gradient lessens there are many beautiful lunch spots. After lunch start the trek towards Namche by following the path round the eastern flanks of the hills. At the rear is the beautiful west face of the Thamserku (6608m) and Kang Taiga (6685m). then descend to Namche for overnight stay. 8 hours
From Namche Bazar, it is interesting to watch others starting enthusiastically on the trek ahead as we head down to Phakding which is reached in about 3 and half hours.
From Phakding, it is a surprising hard uphill climb to Lukla, which should take about 3 hours. It is a delightful ending to the trip as one enters into this busy village of Lukla.
The trek continues along the Dudh Koshi River to the small mountain airstrip at Lukla, where you will catch your return flight to Kathmandu.
Early morning, fly from Lukla to Katmandu on a twin Otter. Upon arrival, meet and transfer to the Hotel.
The representative from Friendship World Trek will transport you to Kathmandu International Airport around 3 hours before your scheduled flight from where you will depart.