Time to rest, adjust and prepare.

Today you meet your guide, go through the itinerary and check your gear. Missing something? Your guide will take you to the outdoor shops nearby to get everything sorted.

Got everything you need? Take the rest of the day to recover from the jetlag, explore Thamel at your own pace or venture a little further into the city.

Today the adventure begins. Depending on the season, we fly from Kathmandu or Ramechhap to Lukla. Flying from Ramechhap? Then the day starts early. Very early. Between 1:00 and 3:00 in the morning, we get on the bus. From Kathmandu it’s a little more relaxed, with an early morning start.

The flight to Lukla is an experience in itself. A small plane, spectacular mountain peaks and a runway you won’t forget in a hurry. After landing, the walk really begins, heading towards Phakding. It’s a relaxed, pleasant walk along the Dudh Koshi river.

Today we walk to Namche Bazaar, the beating heart of the Everest region. Along the way, we cross the Dudh Khosi river several times via impressive suspension bridges decorated with colourful prayer flags. After passing through the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park, the trail climbs steeply upward. The views along the way more than make up for it.

Namche itself is a lively mountain village that surprises many first-time visitors. It has everything: good restaurants, shops and even bakeries. Take some time to explore it at your own pace.

A rest day, but certainly not a dull one. Your body needs time to adjust to the altitude, and today we take that time. A short hike to the museum or the viewpoint at Syangboche is a great way to spend the day. The views across the Khumbu peaks are simply spectacular. Especially at sunrise and sunset.

Today we leave the busy trail towards Base Camp and take a quieter path. We climb up via Khumjung Hill and then descend through a wide valley towards the Dudh Khosi river. Along the way we pass a chorten on a mountain ridge and the village of Mohang, the birthplace of a reincarnated lama said to have introduced Buddhism to the Khumbu region. A place with a lot of history.

Today we walk through a beautiful rhododendron forest. In spring, it’s an explosion of deep pink and green. The trail runs past a waterfall and through a small village before we reach Dole. The altitude is now really starting to make itself felt, and the landscape becomes wilder and quieter.

A steady climb today, along the Dudh Khosi river. We pass a chorten and walk through small villages. The surroundings grow quieter and more rugged as you gain altitude. Machhermo itself is a small, remote settlement.

This is a day that will stay with you. We leave the inhabited world behind and step into the rugged high mountains. The trail passes chortens on a mountain ridge, with views of Kantega (6,782 m) and the mighty Cho Oyu (8,188 m), the sixth-highest mountain in the world.

Then we reach the Ngozumpa Glacier — the longest glacier in the Himalaya. We walk along its edge and pass the first and second sacred lakes before arriving in Gokyo, on the shore of the third lake, Dudh Pokhari. The mirror-smooth surface reflects the mountain peaks all around.

An early start today. Before the sun rises, we step outside and begin the ascent of Gokyo Ri. It’s about two hours of climbing at a steady pace, until we reach the summit, marked by an enormous tangle of prayer flags.

In clear weather, the view from the top is beyond words. Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, four of the highest mountains in the world, right in front of you. And below you, the Ngozumpa Glacier cuts through the landscape like a giant scar. These are views you normally only see in expedition photographs.

A short day today. And intentionally so. We cross the Ngozumpa Glacier and follow the mountain wall to the small settlement of Dragnag. The afternoon is yours to rest and recharge. Because tomorrow we cross the Cho La pass.

This is probably the toughest day of the entire trip, and also an unforgettable one. The Cho La pass is not technical or difficult, but it is steep and can be slippery and icy. It requires concentration.

At the top of the pass, colourful prayer flags flutter in the wind. In clear conditions, the views here are breathtaking. You can see the pyramid-shaped Ama Dablam, Cholatse, Lobuche East, a panorama you won’t forget. After crossing a few glacier crevasses, we descend to Dzonglha, from where you look out over an endless mountain landscape.

After the intense day yesterday, this is a welcome, more relaxed day. We descend from Dzonglha via a green trail with views of Lobuche Peak and follow the wide river valley to Lobuche. The rest of the day is yours, for a good book, or simply soaking up the views.

Today we reach another highlight of this adventurous trek: Everest Base Camp. The trail leads through the former Gorak Shep lake, past memorial monuments and over rocky moraine. The thin air makes itself felt. So we take our time.

At Base Camp, you see the colourful tents of expeditions against a backdrop of grey rock and ice. And the giant Nuptse, Khumbutse and Pumori towering above you. After exploring Base Camp, we make our way back to Gorak Shep.

Another early start. In the dark, in the cold. The temperature here can easily drop to -10 or even -15 degrees Celsius. But when you reach the top of Kala Patthar and Everest unfolds before you, the cold somehow seems to disappear for a bit. Mount Everest feels even closer than you might have imagined.

After this moment, we descend to Pheriche. For a warm meal and hopefully a good night’s sleep.

The descent begins. We pass Pangboche and the oldest monastery in the region, where the skull and bones of a yeti are said to be kept… Then we continue to the monastery at Tengboche, high on a mountain ridge with views of Ama Dablam, before returning to the familiar surroundings of Namche Bazaar.

Today is our last day in the mountains. We walk back to Lukla, the place where everything began.

You didn’t take the shortest route to Base Camp. You made an incredible journey via Gokyo, over the Cho La pass and through places very few people ever reach.

From the air, you get one last look at the peaks you’ve spent the past weeks getting to know up close. After landing in Kathmandu or Ramechhap, our team takes you to your hotel.

Mountain flights depend on the weather and delays can happen. If the flight from Lukla is delayed, this extra day gives you the buffer you need.

Smooth flight back? The day is yours. It’s a great opportunity for sightseeing. There’s so much to explore in the Kathmandu Valley!

Sightseeing

Kathmandu is an ancient city with many UNESCO World Heritage Sites.  Want to explore the city today? Here are some ideas.

Boudhanath Stupa

One of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Boudhanath is the spiritual heart of the Tibetan community in Kathmandu. Walking the kora, the circular path around the stupa, alongside monks, pilgrims and locals is an experience that stays with you. The whitewashed dome, the prayer flags and the steady hum of chanting make this place unlike anywhere else in the city.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

About 13 km east of Kathmandu lies Bhaktapur, a medieval city that feels like it has barely changed in centuries. The Durbar Square is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the Palace of 55 Windows, the five-story Nyatapola Temple and the ornate Golden Gate. Behind the square, Pottery Square is still a working craft centre where local artisans shape clay by hand, just as they have done for generations.

Pashupatinath Temple

The holiest Hindu temple in Nepal, dedicated to Lord Shiva in his form as Pashupati, protector of animals. The temple complex sits on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River, about 5 km from Thamel. Non-Hindus cannot enter the main temple, but the surrounding complex is open to all. From the eastern bank of the river, you can watch the cremation ghats and the daily rituals that have taken place here for centuries.

Your international flight departs from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.

Goodbye friends! We hope you will cherish the memories we’ve made together forever. And see you on the next adventure!

Hopefully you had a good first night and recovered a bit from the journey to Nepal.

After breakfast, we have our pre-trip meeting. We go through the itinerary together and check our gear. Missing something? Your guide will take you to the outdoor shops nearby to get everything sorted.

Got everything you need? Take the rest of the day to recover from the jetlag, explore Thamel at your own pace or venture a little further into the city.

Sightseeing

Want to go for a small walk in the afternoon? Here are some ideas on walking distance from your hotel.

Swoyambhunath Stupa

Also known as the Monkey Temple, Swayambhunath sits on a hilltop about 20 minutes west of Thamel. The climb up the stone staircase is steep, but the reward is a panoramic view over Kathmandu and a stupa surrounded by dozens of resident monkeys. The all-seeing eyes painted on the tower watch over the city from every angle. One of the oldest religious sites in Nepal, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists.

Kathmandu Durbar Square

About 15 minutes on foot from Thamel, Kathmandu Durbar Square is the historic heart of the old city. The square was the seat of the Malla and Shah kings for centuries and is still used today for religious ceremonies, including those of the Kumari, the living goddess whose residence is located within the complex. The temples, courtyards and wooden carvings date back to the 15th and 16th centuries. Some structures are still being restored after the 2015 earthquake, but the square remains one of the most compelling places in the city. Walk there from Thamel and take the back streets: the journey is half the experience.

An early start. We board the tourist bus to Pokhara. The ride takes about 6 hours through hills, river valleys and terraced farmland.

Private vehicles take us from Pokhara to Nayapul. From there, the walking begins.

We follow the Modi Khola river to Birethanti, then climb steadily through Hille and Tikhedhunga. The final section is a steep stone staircase up to the Magar village of Ulleri. Hard work on day one. The views make it worth it.

The trail eases. We climb gently through oak and rhododendron forests, past Banthanti and Nangethanti, until we reach Ghorepani. A shorter day, well earned.

Up before sunrise. A one-hour climb to Poon Hill (3,210 m / 10,531 ft), where the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges light up in the morning sky.

Back to Ghorepani for breakfast, then on through pine and rhododendron forests to Tadapani.

A steep descent through a rhododendron forest, easing as we approach the Gurung village of Gurjung. From there, an easy walk brings us to Chhomrong, perched on a ridge with views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre.

The trail drops steeply on stone steps to the Chhomrong Khola river, then crosses a swaying suspension bridge. On the other side, we climb through small settlements into the upper Modi valley. Doban comes into view below. The mountains are getting closer.

The trail crosses streams and an avalanche chute, passing a small forest temple where locals leave offerings of flowers and leaves. A rocky climb through a steep ravine leads past Hinku Cave and across glacier remnants to Deorali. The Sanctuary is close.

First, the trail climbs to Machhapuchhre Base Camp. Then two more hours to Annapurna Base Camp.

YES! We made it. 🎉

The mountains close in on all sides. Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Gangapurna, Machhapuchhre. We are in the middle of it all.

The same trail back down. We drop 1,700 metres to the bank of the Modi Khola and spend the night at Bamboo.

Back through Chhomrong and down to Jhinu Danda. At the bottom of the valley, a natural hot spring sits beside a raging river. After ten days of walking together, we ease in, enjoy the warm water and celebrate that we made it to ABC.

An easy walk along the Modi Khola to Birethanti and on to Nayapul. It’s one of the most relaxed sections of the entire route.

From Nayapul, we drive back to Pokhara in 1.5 hrs.

An early start. We board the bus back to Kathmandu.

A free day in the city. It’s a great opportunity for sightseeing. There’s so much to explore! Or pick up souvenirs or find a quiet corner in one of the many restaurants nearby.

In the evening, the group heads out for dinner together. A toast to this great adventure we shared!

Sightseeing

Kathmandu is an ancient city with many UNESCO World Heritage Sites.  Want to explore the city today? Here are some ideas.

Visit Boudhanath Stupa

One of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Boudhanath is the spiritual heart of the Tibetan community in Kathmandu. Walking the kora, the circular path around the stupa, alongside monks, pilgrims and locals is an experience that stays with you. The whitewashed dome, the prayer flags and the steady hum of chanting make this place unlike anywhere else in the city.

Visit Bhaktapur Durbar Square

About 13 km east of Kathmandu lies Bhaktapur, a medieval city that feels like it has barely changed in centuries. The Durbar Square is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the Palace of 55 Windows, the five-story Nyatapola Temple and the ornate Golden Gate. Behind the square, Pottery Square is still a working craft centre where local artisans shape clay by hand, just as they have done for generations.

Visit Pashupatinath Temple

The holiest Hindu temple in Nepal, dedicated to Lord Shiva in his form as Pashupati, protector of animals. The temple complex sits on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River, about 5 km from Thamel. Non-Hindus cannot enter the main temple, but the surrounding complex is open to all. From the eastern bank of the river, you can watch the cremation ghats and the daily rituals that have taken place here for centuries.

Your international flight departs from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.

Goodbye friends! We hope you will cherish the memories we’ve made together forever. And see you on the next adventure!

Today the adventure begins. Depending on the season, we fly from Kathmandu or Ramechhap to Lukla. Flying from Ramechhap? Then the day starts early. Very early. Between 1:00 and 3:00 in the morning, we get on the bus. From Kathmandu it’s a little more relaxed, with an early morning start.

The flight to Lukla is an experience in itself. A small plane, spectacular mountain peaks and a runway you won’t forget in a hurry. After landing, the walk really begins, heading towards Phakding. It’s a relaxed, pleasant walk along the Dudh Koshi river.

Today we walk to Namche Bazaar, the beating heart of the Everest region. Along the way, we cross the Dudh Khosi river several times via impressive suspension bridges decorated with colourful prayer flags. After passing through the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park, the trail climbs steeply upward. The views along the way more than make up for it.

Namche itself is a lively mountain village that surprises many first-time visitors. It has everything: good restaurants, shops and even bakeries. Take some time to explore it at your own pace.

A rest day, but certainly not a dull one. Your body needs time to adjust to the altitude, and today we take that time. A short hike to the museum or the viewpoint at Syangboche is a great way to spend the day. The views across the Khumbu peaks are simply spectacular. Especially at sunrise and sunset.

Today we leave the busy trail towards Base Camp and take a quieter path. We climb up via Khumjung Hill and then descend through a wide valley towards the Dudh Khosi river. Along the way we pass a chorten on a mountain ridge and the village of Mohang, the birthplace of a reincarnated lama said to have introduced Buddhism to the Khumbu region. A place with a lot of history.

Today we walk through a beautiful rhododendron forest. In spring, it’s an explosion of deep pink and green. The trail runs past a waterfall and through a small village before we reach Dole. The altitude is now really starting to make itself felt, and the landscape becomes wilder and quieter.

A steady climb today, along the Dudh Khosi river. We pass a chorten and walk through small villages. The surroundings grow quieter and more rugged as you gain altitude. Machhermo itself is a small, remote settlement.

This is a day that will stay with you. We leave the inhabited world behind and step into the rugged high mountains. The trail passes chortens on a mountain ridge, with views of Kantega (6,782 m) and the mighty Cho Oyu (8,188 m), the sixth-highest mountain in the world.

Then we reach the Ngozumpa Glacier — the longest glacier in the Himalaya. We walk along its edge and pass the first and second sacred lakes before arriving in Gokyo, on the shore of the third lake, Dudh Pokhari. The mirror-smooth surface reflects the mountain peaks all around. It’s almost unreal, it’s so beautiful.

An early start today. Before the sun rises, we step outside and begin the ascent of Gokyo Ri. It’s about two hours of climbing at a steady pace, until we reach the summit, marked by an enormous tangle of prayer flags.

In clear weather, the view from the top is beyond words. Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, four of the highest mountains in the world, right in front of you. And below you, the Ngozumpa Glacier cuts through the landscape like a giant scar. These are views you normally only see in expedition photographs.

A short day today. And intentionally so. We cross the Ngozumpa Glacier and follow the mountain wall to the small settlement of Dragnag. The afternoon is yours to rest and recharge. Because tomorrow we cross the Cho La pass.

This is probably the toughest day of the entire trip, and also an unforgettable one. The Cho La pass is not technical or difficult, but it is steep and can be slippery and icy. It requires concentration.

At the top of the pass, colourful prayer flags flutter in the wind. In clear conditions, the views here are breathtaking. You can see the pyramid-shaped Ama Dablam, Cholatse, Lobuche East, a panorama you won’t forget. After crossing a few glacier crevasses, we descend to Dzonglha, from where you look out over an endless mountain landscape.

After the intense day yesterday, this is a welcome, more relaxed day. We descend from Dzonglha via a green trail with views of Lobuche Peak and follow the wide river valley to Lobuche. The rest of the day is yours, for a good book, or simply soaking up the views.

Today we reach another highlight of this adventurous trek: Everest Base Camp. The trail leads through the former Gorak Shep lake, past memorial monuments and over rocky moraine. The thin air makes itself felt. So we take our time.

At Base Camp, you see the colourful tents of expeditions against a backdrop of grey rock and ice. And the giant Nuptse, Khumbutse and Pumori towering above you. After exploring Base Camp, we make our way back to Gorak Shep.

Another early start. In the dark, in the cold. The temperature here can easily drop to -10 or even -15 degrees Celsius. But when you reach the top of Kala Patthar and Everest unfolds before you, the cold somehow seems to disappear for a bit. Mount Everest feels even closer than you might have imagined.

After this moment, we descend to Pheriche. For a warm meal and hopefully a good night’s sleep.

The descent begins. We pass Pangboche and the oldest monastery in the region, where the skull and bones of a yeti are said to be kept… Then we continue to the monastery at Tengboche, high on a mountain ridge with views of Ama Dablam, before returning to the familiar surroundings of Namche Bazaar.

Today is our last day in the mountains. We walk back to Lukla, the place where everything began.

You didn’t take the shortest route to Base Camp. You made an incredible journey via Gokyo, over the Cho La pass and through places very few people ever reach.

From the air, you get one last look at the peaks you’ve spent the past weeks getting to know up close. After landing in Kathmandu or Ramechhap, our team takes you to your hotel.

Mountain flights depend on the weather and delays can happen. If the flight from Lukla is delayed, this extra day gives you the buffer you need.

Smooth flight back? The day is yours. It’s a great opportunity for sightseeing. There’s so much to explore in the Kathmandu Valley!

Sightseeing

Kathmandu is an ancient city with many UNESCO World Heritage Sites.  Want to explore the city today? Here are some ideas.

Boudhanath Stupa

One of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Boudhanath is the spiritual heart of the Tibetan community in Kathmandu. Walking the kora, the circular path around the stupa, alongside monks, pilgrims and locals is an experience that stays with you. The whitewashed dome, the prayer flags and the steady hum of chanting make this place unlike anywhere else in the city.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

About 13 km east of Kathmandu lies Bhaktapur, a medieval city that feels like it has barely changed in centuries. The Durbar Square is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the Palace of 55 Windows, the five-story Nyatapola Temple and the ornate Golden Gate. Behind the square, Pottery Square is still a working craft centre where local artisans shape clay by hand, just as they have done for generations.

Pashupatinath Temple

The holiest Hindu temple in Nepal, dedicated to Lord Shiva in his form as Pashupati, protector of animals. The temple complex sits on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River, about 5 km from Thamel. Non-Hindus cannot enter the main temple, but the surrounding complex is open to all. From the eastern bank of the river, you can watch the cremation ghats and the daily rituals that have taken place here for centuries.

We take an early flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur in the far east of Nepal. From there, we drive to Ilam, a hill town known for its tea gardens, with the first views of the Kangchenjunga range appearing on the horizon. Tonight we sleep in a hotel.

We drive to Taplejung, the gateway to the Kangchenjunga region, then begin the trek. The trail drops through terraced fields and forest to Mitlung, a small village on the banks of the Tamor river. The trek has begun.

We follow the Tamor river upstream through subtropical forest and small settlements. The valley is lush and warm. Few trekkers come this way. The trail is quiet and the villages are genuinely off the tourist circuit.

The trail continues along the river, climbing gradually. The vegetation shifts as we gain altitude. Stone bridges, waterfalls and the occasional glimpse of snow peaks ahead.

We leave the river valley and begin climbing in earnest. The forest thickens; rhododendron, oak and bamboo. And the air cools. The Kangchenjunga massif starts to reveal itself above the treeline.

A steady climb through forest and alpine meadows. Gyabla is a small Tibetan-influenced settlement, with prayer flags, mani walls and yaks on the hillside. The high mountains are close now.

We arrive in Ghunsa, the main village on the northern route — a traditional Tibetan community at the foot of the Kangchenjunga massif. Stone houses, a monastery and extraordinary mountain views. We spend two nights here.

A rest day in Ghunsa. Walk high, sleep low. An optional hike above the village gives the first clear views of Jannu. one of the most dramatic peaks in the entire Himalayan range, and the glaciers above Ghunsa. It’s time to acclimatise, explore and prepare for the days ahead.

We leave Ghunsa and climb into the high valley. The landscape becomes wilder, with fewer trees, more rock and ice. Khambachen is a small settlement with big views, the last real stopping point before the North Base Camp push.

This is a high and exposed day above the glacier. The terrain is raw and spectacular. Moraines, frozen streams and the north face of Kangchenjunga filling the horizon. Lhonak is a basic camp at the edge of the glacier.

The biggest day on the northern side. We set off early and climb to North Base Camp at 5,475 m / 17,963 ft — a vast glacial bowl beneath the north face of the world’s third highest mountain. The scale is almost impossible to comprehend. We return to Lhonak in the afternoon.

Congrats on reaching North Base Camp! That was a serious day at serious altitude. 💪😁

We retrace our steps down the valley to Ghunsa. The descent feels fast. The mountain stays with us the whole way.

We leave the northern valley and begin the approach to the high pass that connects the two sides of the circuit. The trail climbs through increasingly remote terrain to the base camp below Sele La.

The high pass crossing. We climb to Sele La and cross from the northern to the southern side of the Kangchenjunga circuit. A long, demanding day with extraordinary views from the pass, if the weather permits. The descent to Tseram is steep and rewarding.

We climb towards the southern side of Kangchenjunga. Ramche is the last camp before the Oktang viewpoint. It’s small, exposed and completely surrounded by mountains.

The highlight of the southern side. We hike to Oktang, the viewpoint directly below the south face of Kangchenjunga. The mountain fills the entire sky. Then we descend all the way back to Tseram. A long day, but one of the most memorable of the entire circuit.

Congrats! We have now seen Kangchenjunga from both sides. Not many people can say that.  😎

The descent begins in earnest. The forest returns. With rhododendron and bamboo, warmer air and the sounds of birds. Tortong is a small lodge in the forest, a world away from the glacial terrain of the past few days.

We continue descending through forest and terraced fields. Yamphudin is a larger village with a more settled feel. This is the end of the high mountain section of the trek.

The trail winds through the lower hills of the far eastern Terai foothills. The landscape is greener and warmer. Villages become more frequent.

The final walking day. We complete the descent to Khandenba, where the road begins. The trek is done.

Congrats! We have completed the full Kangchenjunga Circuit. One of the most remote and rewarding treks in all of Nepal. Well done. 🙌

We board our vehicle and drive through the green hills of eastern Nepal to Bhadrapur. The mountains slowly disappear behind us.

An early morning flight back to Kathmandu. Back in the city: a hot shower, a soft bed and the quiet satisfaction of knowing what we just did.

Mountain flights depend on the weather and delays can happen. If the flight from Lukla is delayed, this extra day gives you the buffer you need.

Smooth flight back? The day is yours. It’s a great opportunity for sightseeing. There’s so much to explore in the Kathmandu Valley!

Sightseeing

Kathmandu is an ancient city with many UNESCO World Heritage Sites.  Want to explore the city today? Here are some ideas.

Boudhanath Stupa

One of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Boudhanath is the spiritual heart of the Tibetan community in Kathmandu. Walking the kora, the circular path around the stupa, alongside monks, pilgrims and locals is an experience that stays with you. The whitewashed dome, the prayer flags and the steady hum of chanting make this place unlike anywhere else in the city.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

About 13 km east of Kathmandu lies Bhaktapur, a medieval city that feels like it has barely changed in centuries. The Durbar Square is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the Palace of 55 Windows, the five-story Nyatapola Temple and the ornate Golden Gate. Behind the square, Pottery Square is still a working craft centre where local artisans shape clay by hand, just as they have done for generations.

Pashupatinath Temple

The holiest Hindu temple in Nepal, dedicated to Lord Shiva in his form as Pashupati, protector of animals. The temple complex sits on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River, about 5 km from Thamel. Non-Hindus cannot enter the main temple, but the surrounding complex is open to all. From the eastern bank of the river, you can watch the cremation ghats and the daily rituals that have taken place here for centuries.

Hopefully you had a good first night and recovered a bit from the journey to Nepal.

After breakfast, we have our pre-trip meeting. We go through the itinerary together and check our gear. Missing something? Your guide will take you to the outdoor shops nearby to get everything sorted.

Got everything you need? Take the rest of the day to recover from the jetlag, explore Thamel at your own pace or venture a little further into the city.

Sightseeing

Want to go for a small walk in the afternoon? Here are some ideas on walking distance from your hotel.

Swoyambhunath Stupa

Also known as the Monkey Temple, Swayambhunath sits on a hilltop about 20 minutes west of Thamel. The climb up the stone staircase is steep, but the reward is a panoramic view over Kathmandu and a stupa surrounded by dozens of resident monkeys. The all-seeing eyes painted on the tower watch over the city from every angle. One of the oldest religious sites in Nepal, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists.

Kathmandu Durbar Square

About 15 minutes on foot from Thamel, Kathmandu Durbar Square is the historic heart of the old city. The square was the seat of the Malla and Shah kings for centuries and is still used today for religious ceremonies, including those of the Kumari, the living goddess whose residence is located within the complex. The temples, courtyards and wooden carvings date back to the 15th and 16th centuries. Some structures are still being restored after the 2015 earthquake, but the square remains one of the most compelling places in the city. Walk there from Thamel and take the back streets: the journey is half the experience.

An early start. We board the tourist bus to Pokhara. The ride takes about 6 hours through hills, river valleys and terraced farmland.

A private vehicle take us from Pokhara to Nayapul. From there, the walking begins.

We follow the Modi Khola river to Birethanti, then climb steadily through Hille and Tikhedhunga. The final section is a steep stone staircase up to the Magar village of Ulleri. Hard work on day one. The views make it worth it.

The trail eases. We climb gently through oak and rhododendron forests, past Banthanti and Nangethanti, until we reach Ghorepani. A shorter day, well earned.

Up before sunrise. A one-hour climb to Poon Hill (3,210 m / 10,531 ft), where the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges light up in the morning sky.

Back to Ghorepani for breakfast, then on through pine and rhododendron forests to Tadapani.

A steep descent through a rhododendron forest, easing as we approach the Gurung village of Gurjung. From there, an easy walk brings us to Chhomrong, perched on a ridge with views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre.

The trail drops steeply on stone steps to the Chhomrong Khola river, then crosses a swaying suspension bridge. On the other side, we climb through small settlements into the upper Modi valley. Doban comes into view below. The mountains are getting closer.

The trail crosses streams and an avalanche chute, passing a small forest temple where locals leave offerings of flowers and leaves. A rocky climb through a steep ravine leads past Hinku Cave and across glacier remnants to Deorali. The Sanctuary is close.

First, the trail climbs to Machhapuchhre Base Camp. Then two more hours to Annapurna Base Camp.

YES! You made it. 🎉

The mountains close in on all sides. Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Gangapurna, Machhapuchhre. We are in the middle of it all.

The same trail back down. We drop 1,700 metres to the bank of the Modi Khola and spend the night at Bamboo.

Back through Chhomrong and down to Jhinu Danda. At the bottom of the valley, a natural hot spring sits beside a raging river. After ten days of walking together, we ease in, enjoy the warm water and celebrate that we made it to ABC.

An easy walk along the Modi Khola to Birethanti and on to Nayapul. It’s one of the most relaxed sections of the entire route.

From Nayapul, we drive back to Pokhara in 1.5 hrs.

An early start. We board the bus back to Kathmandu.

A free day in the city. It’s a great opportunity for sightseeing. There’s so much to explore! Or pick up souvenirs or find a quiet corner in one of the many restaurants nearby.

Sightseeing

Kathmandu is an ancient city with many UNESCO World Heritage Sites.  Want to explore the city today? Here are some ideas.

Visit Boudhanath Stupa

One of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Boudhanath is the spiritual heart of the Tibetan community in Kathmandu. Walking the kora, the circular path around the stupa, alongside monks, pilgrims and locals is an experience that stays with you. The whitewashed dome, the prayer flags and the steady hum of chanting make this place unlike anywhere else in the city.

Visit Bhaktapur Durbar Square

About 13 km east of Kathmandu lies Bhaktapur, a medieval city that feels like it has barely changed in centuries. The Durbar Square is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the Palace of 55 Windows, the five-story Nyatapola Temple and the ornate Golden Gate. Behind the square, Pottery Square is still a working craft centre where local artisans shape clay by hand, just as they have done for generations.

Visit Pashupatinath Temple

The holiest Hindu temple in Nepal, dedicated to Lord Shiva in his form as Pashupati, protector of animals. The temple complex sits on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River, about 5 km from Thamel. Non-Hindus cannot enter the main temple, but the surrounding complex is open to all. From the eastern bank of the river, you can watch the cremation ghats and the daily rituals that have taken place here for centuries.

Your international flight departs from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.

Goodbye friends! We hope you will cherish the memories we’ve made together forever. And see you on the next adventure!

Up early. Your guide picks you up at the hotel and you drive together to the airport in the dark. The mountain flight to Lukla is short, about 30 minutes, but unforgettable. The plane threads between ridges and drops onto one of the most dramatic runways in the world. Hopefully on time, but in the mountains, schedules bend to the weather.

In Lukla, you meet your porters for the first time. Now the trek really begins. The trail drops out of the village and follows the Dudh Koshi river downstream through rhododendron forest to Phakding, where we spend the first night on the trail.

The trail crosses the river on suspension bridges, each one higher than the last. The climb to Namche is long and relentless. But somewhere on that final ridge, you can see Everest for the first time, framed between the peaks.

We take it easy today. No major elevation gain, but plenty of time to acclimatize. If you like, we can go for a short hike. Or, just kick-back and relax in the village.

Namche Bazaar sits in a horseshoe-shaped bowl, carved into the hillside of the Khumbu, the high mountain valley that leads to Everest. It is the main hub of the entire region: part village, part base camp supply depot, part crossroads for every trek in the area.

Bakeries with fresh cinnamon rolls, gear shops stacked to the ceiling, Sherpa families going about their day and trekkers from all over the world sitting over a pot of tea.

Here we leave the main EBC trail and head west into the Bhote Koshi valley. The path follows a trading route used for centuries by yak caravans between Nepal and Tibet. Thame is a quiet, traditional Sherpa village with a monastery perched above it.

The valley narrows and the landscape turns alpine. We follow the river upstream past stone walls and grazing yaks to the small settlement of Lungden, the last stop before the first pass.

An early start for the crossing of Renjo La. We climb steadily and the views grow with every step. At the summit, a panorama opens up: Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and the turquoise Gokyo Lake far below. All at once. The descent to Gokyo is long but beautiful.

A rest day beside the glacial lakes of Gokyo.

On the optional climb to Gokyo Ri, about two hours up, you earn one of the finest viewpoints in Nepal: four eight-thousanders in a single panorama, including Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse and Makalu.

Today’s a shorter day along the shore of the Gokyo Lakes, skirting the edge of the Ngozumpa Glacier. Tagnag is a small cluster of teahouses, quiet and exposed. We take good rest here for the big day tomorrow.

Time for the second pass! We climb through a boulder field, then step onto the glacier. we may need crampons, depending on the conditions.

At the summit, the Khumbu Glacier and the peaks above Gorak Shep come into full view. The descent to Dzonglha is demanding but dramatic.

This is a shorter day, across a high plateau with views of Nuptse and Pumori. We join the main EBC trail at Lobuche.

The altitude is noticeable here. So we’ll take it easy.

This is the biggest day of our 3 Passes Trek.

We start before sunrise for the climb to Kala Patthar, the highest point of the trek and the best viewpoint for Everest. Then we descend to Gorak Shep, collect our bags and walk to Everest Base Camp: the legendary place where expedition teams gather before attempting the highest summit on earth. And we go to Gorak Shep for the night.

It’s time for the third and highest pass. The climb from Gorak Shep is long and exposed. At the top, we can see Nuptse, Lhotse and the Khumbu Glacier in extraordinary detail. The descent to Chhukung is steep and rocky.

It’s a long day. But the hardest climbing is now behind us.

We have a short, easy descent to Dingboche. Rest here, eat well and let your body recover after three passes.

We descend through the Imja Khola valley with changing views of Ama Dablam at every turn. Tengboche Monastery sits on a ridge above the treeline, one of the most beautifully positioned monasteries in Nepal.

We go back through rhododendron forests, cross the river at Phunki Tenga and climb back up to Namche. Familiar ground, but everything looks different on the way down.

The descent continues. We follow the Dudh Koshi river downstream through forest and past suspension bridges. The air gets warmer with every hour.

A short final walk back to Lukla. Congrats! You did it! You completed the Everest 3 Passes Trek. 🎉

It’s time to celebrate, reflect and say goodbye to your porters. the people who carried the weight so you could enjoy this great Everest journey.

We take an early morning flight back to Kathmandu. From the plane, we can catch one last view of the Khumbu peaks before the mountains disappear behind the clouds.

Back in the city: rest, eat and let it all sink in.

Mountain flights depend on the weather and delays can happen. If the flight from Lukla is delayed, this extra day gives you the buffer you need.

Smooth flight back? The day is yours. It’s a great opportunity for sightseeing. There’s so much to explore in the Kathmandu Valley!

Sightseeing

Kathmandu is an ancient city with many UNESCO World Heritage Sites.  Want to explore the city today? Here are some ideas.

Boudhanath Stupa

One of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Boudhanath is the spiritual heart of the Tibetan community in Kathmandu. Walking the kora, the circular path around the stupa, alongside monks, pilgrims and locals is an experience that stays with you. The whitewashed dome, the prayer flags and the steady hum of chanting make this place unlike anywhere else in the city.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

About 13 km east of Kathmandu lies Bhaktapur, a medieval city that feels like it has barely changed in centuries. The Durbar Square is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the Palace of 55 Windows, the five-story Nyatapola Temple and the ornate Golden Gate. Behind the square, Pottery Square is still a working craft centre where local artisans shape clay by hand, just as they have done for generations.

Pashupatinath Temple

The holiest Hindu temple in Nepal, dedicated to Lord Shiva in his form as Pashupati, protector of animals. The temple complex sits on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River, about 5 km from Thamel. Non-Hindus cannot enter the main temple, but the surrounding complex is open to all. From the eastern bank of the river, you can watch the cremation ghats and the daily rituals that have taken place here for centuries.