Everest Panorama Trek

Start your day with being picked up from your hotel in Kathmandu and enjoy an amazing flight to Lukla (2,845 m/9,334’), viewing the incredible Himalayas from above. When you arrive, meet your trekking crew of Sherpa porters and guides, and notice that these people are from a different background and culture than those you met in Kathmandu. Begin your trek by descending from the plateau into the forests of the valley. After a break for lunch, continue your trek to the north, crossing several streams, to reach Phakding (2,650 m/8,694’). Spend the night in the small Phakding settlement, surrounded by inspirational views.

Today, the trail from Phakding leads you across fields and through villages, following the Dudh Kosi River to the north toward Namche Bazaar. Walk through the beautiful forests full of magnolia, rhododendron, and giant fir trees. After crossing the Bhote Kosi, the western fork of the river, you’ll begin a steep climb up to Namche Bazaar (3,500 m/11,483’). This large and prosperous Sherpa village is an important center for trade and a popular staging area for most major expeditions in the Himalayas. Sellers from the lower villages bring fresh food for sale to a weekly market bazaar here in Namche.

Today is a rest and acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar. Staying active today will help you to be better prepared for the journey ahead, but you should also take opportunities to relax and enjoy the sun. Take a short hike to explore the mountains in the local area or spend time browsing the markets and experiencing the local culture. Spend another night in the lodge in Namche Bazaar.

Leave Namche Bazaar today, beginning with a climb that is short but strenuous. Afterwards, the trail continues with a gentle incline all the way to Tengboche (3,870 m/12,697’). The mountain views along the way today are spectacular. Watch for clear views of Gokyo Ri, Ama Dablam, Island Peak, and Thamserku. Spend the night in a lodge in Tengboche.

Trek from Tengboche to the large Sherpa village of Khumjung. Here you can see a high school that is one of the schools established by the Sir Edmund Hillary Foundation. There is also a historic monastery here where they have preserved the skull of a Yeti. Enjoy many opportunities to see and learn more about daily life and the culture of the Sherpa people. You will also be surrounded by amazing natural beauty and mountain views. Spend the night here in Khumjung village (3,970 m/ 13,025’).

This morning you will have the opportunity to observe a morning ceremony at the monastery before breakfast. After breakfast, your trek is a steady downhill trail to Kyanjuma. From here, the walk to Namche is relatively easy, but afterwards, you’ll have a steep descent down to the Hillary Bridge. Continue walking from here until you reach Phakding where you’ll stop for the night (Phakding, 2,610 m/ 8,563’).

From Phakding, a steep trail descends, bringing you back to the Dudh Kosi River. From here, the walk to Lukla is long but leisurely. When you arrive in Lukla (2,800 m / 9,186 ft), celebrate your accomplishment at a tea house, with a clear view of the fantastic mountains you have just explored. It is also time to say a fond farewell to the wonderful crew that has accompanied you on your trek.

Enjoy more amazing mountain views on your return flight from Lukla to Kathmandu. After landing, you will have several hours free for exploring the city, shopping, sightseeing, or simply finding a great cafe or roof-top restaurant. Reward yourself with some fun and rest to celebrate completing this incredible journey.