Upon arriving in Kathmandu, a warm welcome awaits you as our Ethic Himalaya representative will receive you and ensure a smooth transfer to your hotel. To begin your journey on a delightful note, we have arranged a special welcome dinner in the evening. To embrace the local culture, this memorable dinner will feature a variety of authentic Nepalese dishes and a comforting welcome drink.

Today, you will have the opportunity to explore Kathmandu with our experienced city tour guide. Our itinerary includes several remarkable sites:

• SWOYAMBHUNATH, also known as the Monkey Temple, is perched atop a hill and can be reached by climbing a long set of steps. From there, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Kathmandu.
• BOUDHANATH STUPA is adorned with traditional Gompas adorned with vibrant prayer flags. It serves as a focal point for Sherpas and Tibetans who partake in the spiritual practice of circumambulating the stupa (koras).
• PASHUPATINATH, a sacred Hindu temple, is situated on the banks of the Bagmati River and features ghats where cremation ceremonies take place, offering a unique glimpse into Hindu rituals.
• KATHMANDU DURBAR SQUARE, one of the ancient capitals of the Kathmandu Valley, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This vibrant square showcases a harmonious fusion of Hindu and Buddhist temples, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region.

With our knowledgeable guide, you will gain insights into the historical, religious, and architectural significance of these iconic landmarks. Prepare to be captivated by the unique charm and spiritual ambiance of Kathmandu.

The journey to the Everest region begins with an early morning drive from Kathmandu to Manthali Airport. Most flights to Lukla now operate from Manthali due to congestion at Tribhuvan International Airport. Departing between 1:00 and 2:00 AM, the 132 km drive along the scenic BP Highway takes approximately 4.5 to 6 hours. The route winds through mountain roads and descends toward the Sun Koshi River. Upon arriving at Manthali, you will take a short but thrilling 15–20-minute flight to Tenzing Hillary Airport, located at 2,850 meters. This airport is known as one of the world's most dramatic airstrips, set on a steep mountainside and offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks and traditional Sherpa villages.

After landing, you will meet your trekking crew and begin the first leg of the trek to Phakding, which is at an altitude of 2,650 meters. This part of the trek covers about 8 kilometers and takes approximately 3–4 hours. The trail gently descends through villages like Chheplung, along a stone-paved path lined with mani walls, prayer flags, and chortens, all following Buddhist traditions. Along the way, you will cross suspension bridges over rivers such as the Thado Koshi and enjoy views of peaks like Kusum Kanguru before reaching the serene riverside village of Phakding. This village’s lower altitude offers a comfortable, ideal start for acclimatization as you prepare to venture deeper into the Khumbu region.

Note: Please note that since 2020, all flights to and from Lukla have been operating from Ramechhap Airport, located east of the Kathmandu Valley. This decision was made by Nepalese aviation authorities to reduce congestion at Kathmandu International Airport, which has reached its maximum air traffic capacity.

After breakfast in Phakding, the trek to Namche Bazaar marks a dramatic and rewarding transition into the high Himalayas. The trail begins with a scenic walk along the banks of the Dudh Koshi River, passing through the picturesque, waterfall-lined village of Benkar before reaching Monjo (2,835 m), the official entrance to Sagarmatha National Park. Continuing north, the route follows the river to Jorsale, where trekkers enjoy a final riverside lunch before tackling one of the most iconic sections of the Everest trail. The path crosses the legendary Hillary Suspension Bridge, suspended high above the Dudh Koshi gorge. Shortly beyond, the trail reaches the confluence of the Imja Khola and Bhote Koshi rivers, signaling the start of a steep and sustained ascent toward Namche Bazaar. The challenging uphill climb winds through dense pine and rhododendron forests and takes approximately two hours to complete. On clear days, a scenic clearing along the trail rewards trekkers with their first glimpse of Mount Everest, peeking above the Lhotse–Nuptse ridge—an unforgettable milestone of the journey. The trail eventually levels out to reveal the spectacular, horseshoe-shaped amphitheater of Namche Bazaar (3,440 m), the bustling commercial and cultural heart of the Khumbu region. A prosperous Sherpa town and historic trading center, Namche is known for its lively Saturday market, cozy cafés, mountain bakeries, and excellent trekking facilities—making it the perfect place to rest and acclimatize.

Today is a crucial rest and acclimatization day on the Everest Base Camp trek, allowing your body to adjust to high altitude and reduce the risk of altitude sickness before the challenging days ahead. The day features a scenic 3-hour hike from Namche Bazaar to Syangboche (3,760 m), offering breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. The trek begins with a steep climb to the Syangboche Airstrip (3,780 m) and continues to the iconic Hotel Everest View (3,880 m), where you can enjoy tea while taking in the spectacular Himalayan vistas. From this high point, the trail descends through the Green Valley to Khunde (3,840 m), home to the historic Hillary Hospital and a serene monastery overlooking terraced stone-walled fields, before connecting to the neighboring village of Khumjung (3,790 m), famous for the first Hillary School and the legendary Yeti Scalp housed in its monastery. The day concludes with a scenic hillside walk offering views of Thamserku and Kantega, gradually descending back into Namche Bazaar for a well-earned rest and the chance to explore local cafés and mountain bakeries.

After breakfast in Namche Bazaar, the trek starts near the Namche Monastery on a mostly flat, scenic trail that winds along the hillside, offering views of Kongde Ri and the deep Bhote Koshi valley. The path passes through the Phurte forests, full of Himalayan blue pines and colorful rhododendrons, and the air smells of pine resin in autumn. About halfway, you reach the quiet village of Thamo (3,480 m), where you can rest with tea near Khari Gompa, a nunnery with peaceful Buddhist chants, and learn about the legendary summiteer Ang Rita Sherpa. The trail then descends toward the Bhote Koshi River, crossing a high suspension bridge over a glacial gorge decorated with ancient rock paintings. A short final climb brings you to Thame (3,800 m), one of the oldest villages in the region and the childhood home of Tenzing Norgay Sherpa. Today is an acclimatization day, so the focus is on rest and sightseeing rather than strenuous trekking. A gentle hike to the 17th-century Thame Monastery offers panoramic views of Thamserku and Kantega, and if visiting in spring, you may experience a small Mani Rimdu festival with sacred masked dances, allowing both cultural immersion and time to adjust to the altitude.

Starting early from Thame between 5:00 and 6:00 AM is essential for enjoying clear views of the mountains. The trail begins behind the lodges and winds through stone-walled potato fields before climbing the steep grassy slopes above the village. As you ascend, Thame gradually becomes smaller below you. In spring, the trail is brightened by dwarf rhododendrons and alpine shrubs, although the path becomes narrower and rockier around 4,500 meters. The climb is physically demanding and is marked by several false summits, where each ridge reveals more distance ahead. The final section requires careful movement across a boulder field with loose scree, necessitating steady footing and a slow, rhythmic Himalayan pace due to the thinning air near 5,000 meters.

Reaching the summit at 5,361 meters rewards you with a breathtaking 360-degree panorama: the towering presence of Cho Oyu to the north, the iconic peaks of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam to the east, the Bhote Koshi valley stretching south toward Namche Bazaar, and the remote Rolwaling peaks to the west. The descent follows the same route back, and caution is required on steep, dusty sections, where trekking poles are highly recommended. Returning to Thame by mid-to-late afternoon completes this rewarding high-altitude day hike.

After breakfast in the historic village of Thame, the trek heads north with the Bhote Koshi River on your right, following a quiet valley once used by Tibetan salt traders. The trail soon leaves behind juniper and dwarf rhododendrons, passing seasonal Sherpa settlements where yaks graze in summer, with towering ice walls of Pasang Lhamu Chuli and other unclimbed Rolwaling peaks in view. About an hour into the trek, you pass the village of Yellajung and continue along gently ascending paths with stunning views of Kongde Ri, reaching Marulung (4,210 m) after 3–4 hours, where you cross braided streams of the Bhote Koshi and take a lunch break. From Marulung, the trail climbs a small hill, crosses a stream, and continues for 2–3 hours over granite boulders and glacial soil with thinning air, requiring slow, rhythmic steps before arriving at Lungden (4,380 m), a quiet high-altitude outpost of stone teahouses tucked beneath the peaks near the Tibet border, offering a peaceful stop for the night.

The day starts very early from Lungden at 4:00 or 5:00 AM to take advantage of clear morning skies. The trail climbs steeply through glacial terraces, often frosty or lightly snow-covered, and after about two hours you reach the frozen Relunco Lake, a peaceful midpoint before the toughest section. The final 300 meters to Renjo La (5,340 m) are steep stone steps carved into the cliff, where the thin air requires slow, deliberate breathing. From the pass, you are rewarded with stunning views east toward Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu, while below the turquoise third Gokyo Lake sparkles beside the massive Ngozumpa Glacier. After a short break among the colorful prayer flags, the descent begins along steep switchbacks, eventually flattening along the lakeshore for a peaceful walk beside the stunning Dudh Pokhari. The journey takes roughly five hours to the pass and about three hours to descend, finally arriving at Gokyo (4,750 m), one of the highest permanent settlements in the world, where cozy lodges with sunrooms and local remedies are found.

The day begins with an early 4:00–4:30 AM start from Gokyo to climb Gokyo Ri, aiming to catch the clear morning views. The trail is a steep, rocky zig-zag that takes about 2–3 hours to reach the summit, marked by prayer flags, where you can see the turquoise lower Gokyo Lakes below, the massive Ngozumpa Glacier stretching out, and the towering Cho Oyu to the north. The descent is quicker but slippery on loose scree, bringing you back to Gokyo for a second breakfast around 9:30 AM. After resting, the trek continues north along the glacier’s lateral moraine to the Fourth Lake, about 45 minutes away, nestled under the jagged peaks of the Mahalangur Himal, and then another 1–1.5 hours to the Fifth Lake at 4,990 m, a wilder, more remote lake. Just beyond this is Scoundrel’s Viewpoint, offering arguably the best spot in the Khumbu to see the full vertical profile of Mount Everest and the massive South Face of Lhotse, along with the glacier’s source and the route toward Cho Oyu Base Camp.

After a late morning breakfast in Gokyo, the trek begins at the eastern edge of the village, with a final view of the turquoise Third Lake before climbing the dark lateral moraine that borders the Ngozumpa Glacier. A short, steep 15–20 minute climb brings you to a ridge with sweeping views of the glacier’s rocky, cratered surface. Carefully following cairns and orange markings, you cross the glacier by hopping over ridges and hollows, passing small emerald or milky supraglacial ponds and hearing the groaning ice beneath your feet. The last challenge is a steep scramble up the eastern moraine before descending into the sheltered sandy valley of Thaknak, a quiet outpost serving as a base for the Cho La Pass. The trek to Thaknak takes about three hours, offering stunning views of Cho Oyu, Gokyo Ri, and other high Himalayan peaks, while the cozy lodges with central dining areas provide a warm place to rest and share stories of the day’s adventure.

The day begins at dawn from Thaknak to ensure a safe crossing before the sun softens the ice and afternoon winds pick up. The trail starts gently along a riverbed but soon turns into a steep climb over rocky ridges, passing through the narrow Iron Gate ravine with loose scree and boulders, where careful footing is essential. After this, you reach the edge of the Cho La Glacier, where the flat but slippery ice requires micro-spikes or crampons to safely cross toward the prayer-flag-marked Cho La Pass (5,330 m), a narrow notch between Lobuche West and Cholatse, offering stunning views of Rolwaling and Ama Dablam. The descent toward Dzongla (4,830 m) starts steep and technical with some cables and careful use of trekking poles, then eases into a high-altitude meadow contouring around Cholatse and providing views of the turquoise Chola Tsho lake. Along the way, trekkers navigate crevasses and icy sections, and at the pass, colorful prayer flags mark the pinnacle. Dzongla, a tiny outpost perched like an eagle’s nest, offers warmth, sun, and a sense of relief after one of the trek’s most challenging days, with breathtaking panoramas of Cholatse, Ama Dablam, Lobuche Peak, and the distant Pheriche village below.

After a hearty breakfast at Dzongla, the trek begins with a short, easy downhill stretch before contouring high above the turquoise Chola Tsho Lake, offering stunning views of the needle-sharp north face of Ama Dablam to the right and the towering cliffs of Cholatse and Taboche to the left. After about two hours, the trail joins the main Everest Base Camp route from Pheriche/Dingboche, reaching Lobuche (4,940 m), a wind-battered settlement built into the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier, perfect for a tea break. From Lobuche, the trail crosses the challenging Khumbu and Changri moraines, a rugged path over glacial debris and uneven rocks where small inclines above 5,000 m feel like summits. Along the way, trekkers are treated to breathtaking views of iconic peaks such as Mount Everest, Nuptse, and Pumori, as well as the moraine of the Khumbu Icefall. Cresting the final ridge, the black pyramid of Everest emerges behind Nuptse before descending into the dry, sandy basin of Gorakshep (5,164 m), the highest permanent lodge settlement in the world, raw and cold with basic accommodations, offering awe-inspiring Himalayan vistas along the way.

We set off early in the morning, eager to witness the awe-inspiring views from Kalapathar. As the first light of day illuminates the surroundings, we are greeted with a dramatic scene, with the majestic Mt. Everest taking center stage. The panoramic vista includes other renowned peaks such as Lingtren, Khumbutse, and Changtse to the east, and Mt. Everest, nestled between the west shoulder crest and Nuptse. After a challenging ascent of approximately 2 hours, we finally reach Kalapathar. From this point, we climb the rocky outcrop near the summit using cairns and flapping prayer flags as markers. As we reach the top, we find a spot to sit on Kalapathar, allowing our eyes to wander across the unbelievable Himalayan panorama. The sight is simply breathtaking, with one mighty massif after another commanding our attention. After taking in this unforgettable experience, we make our way back to Gorakshep, where we will spend the night, relishing the memories of the extraordinary views we witnessed from Kalapathar.

After breakfast at Gorak Shep, trekkers set off on foot for the much-anticipated visit to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m), a journey of approximately 4–5 hours including the return to Gorak Shep. The trail begins across the sandy flats before ascending the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier, winding gradually along its side for about two hours before descending onto the rocky glacial moraine. From there, trekkers navigate a fascinating landscape of ice seracs and moraines until reaching the prayer-flag-draped Everest Base Camp, where close-up views of the massive Khumbu Icefall and the seasonal tents of mountaineering expeditions provide an unforgettable experience. While the summit of Mount Everest remains hidden behind Nuptse, the surrounding Himalayan panorama is awe-inspiring. After a short break to absorb the scenery, the trek retraces back to Gorak Shep for lunch before continuing the descent to Lobuche. The return trek feels easier thanks to increasing oxygen levels, though careful footwork is required on the loose rocks and undulating moraine, making this day both a physically challenging and profoundly rewarding highlight of the Everest Base Camp trek.

After breakfast in Lobuche, the day begins with a challenging crossing of the Khumbu Glacier from Lobuche, navigating shifting moraine and debris-covered ice while following cairns. This section involves rock hopping and short scrambles over boulders and glacial silt, taking about 1 to 1.5 hours and often feeling disorienting in early morning mist. After the glacier, the trail climbs steadily toward Kongma La (5,535 m), winding through quiet high-altitude basins and past frozen turquoise lakes, with no tea shops or water sources, so carrying enough water is essential. The final 150 meters to the narrow, prayer-flag-marked pass are very steep, requiring slow, careful steps over loose scree and granite blocks, rewarding trekkers with spectacular views of the South Face of Lhotse, Nuptse, and distant peaks like Makalu and Baruntse. The descent into the Imja Valley toward Chhukung (4,730 m) starts steep and technical, then eases onto wide alpine slopes and a flat valley floor, passing the turn-off for Island Peak Base Camp. Chhukung is a warmer, more oxygen-rich high-altitude hub with cozy lodges like Chhukung Resort or Sunrise Lodge, perfect for stretching, resting, and refueling after the day’s demanding trek.

After breakfast in Chhukung, you start walking toward Tengboche. The trail follows the calm Imja Khola river through a wide, open valley. You'll see amazing views of Mount Ama Dablam on your left and the big Lhotse wall behind you. The path goes through Dingboche, a village known for its fields surrounded by stone walls. Then you go down toward Pangboche (3,930 m), which is the highest town in the area where people live all year. This is a good place to stop for lunch. You can also visit the old Pangboche Monastery, the oldest in the Khumbu region. It used to have something called a "Yeti scalp" on display. After Pangboche, the trail changes. You walk into green forests filled with birch trees, conifers, and rhododendrons. You'll cross a suspension bridge over the river, then have a short, final climb through the trees to reach the Tengboche plateau. The main highlight here is the beautiful Tengboche Monastery, the biggest one in the Everest area. If you're lucky, you might hear the monks chanting in the late afternoon. There's also a popular bakery where you can celebrate the trek with a treat like apple pie or chocolate cake. From the courtyard, you get one of the best sunset views in the Himalayas. Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam glow in the evening light—a perfect end to the day for photos and memories.

After leaving Tengboche, the trek descends steeply through lush Khumbu forests along the Dudh Koshi River, offering opportunities to spot local wildlife such as mountain goats, snow leopards, and colorful pheasants. Passing a traditional chorten, the trail leads to the army camp at Namche Bazaar, where trekkers can enjoy one last breathtaking view of Lhotse, the tip of Mount Everest, and the iconic Tengboche Monastery. This dynamic 6-hour segment of the Everest Base Camp trek begins with a steep descent through rhododendron groves to Phunki Tenga, followed by a steady climb back to the bustling hub of Namche Bazaar, ideal for final souvenirs or a bakery treat. From Namche, the trail drops sharply down the Namche Hill, crosses the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge, and passes through the Sagarmatha National Park exit at Jorsale before following the riverbank to reach the village of Monjo (2,835 m). With its challenging up-and-down terrain, this leg demands trekking poles for stability and careful attention to park permits, rewarding trekkers with a safe and scenic conclusion to the high Himalayan adventure.

After breakfast in Monjo, the final day of your Everest Base Camp trek retraces your steps through the vibrant lower Khumbu region. The trek begins with a gentle descent from Monjo, crossing the Dudh Koshi River and passing through pine-scented Sherpa villages such as Benkar and Chuthawa, before reaching Phakding for a short tea break. The trail continues through Thadokoshi, offering striking views of Mt. Kusum Kanguru, and winds into the fertile agricultural fields of Chaurikharka, where the landscape shifts from high-altitude wilderness to domestic farmlands. Much of the route follows relatively flat Nepali flats, though the trek concludes with a final 200-meter uphill climb into Lukla, passing the Pasang Lhamu Memorial Gate, which marks the official end of the journey. Crossing suspension bridges over the fast-flowing Dudh Koshi and its tributaries, trekkers arrive in Lukla ready to celebrate their achievement, enjoy local bakeries, or visit the world’s highest Irish pub, reflecting on the unforgettable Himalayan adventure and the breathtaking experiences of the past two weeks.

The day begins with an early morning flight from Lukla to Manthali Airport, departing around 6:00 AM. After checking in at Tenzing-Hillary Airport, you take off from Lukla’s steep, cliffside runway. As you soar over the Dudh Koshi River, you leave behind the snow-capped Himalayas. The short 15- to 20-minute flight descends into the lush, green hills of the Mahabharat Range, landing at the warmer Manthali airstrip, where you can finally remove your trekking layers. From there, you'll transfer to a private jeep or tourist bus for a scenic 132 km (82-mile) drive along the winding BP Highway. The journey takes you past rural villages, the Sun Koshi River, and numerous hairpin turns. A final climb to Dhulikhel offers stunning views of the Langtang and Ganesh Himal ranges before the route descends through Bhaktapur and Koteshwor into Kathmandu. Once you arrive in the city, the stark contrast between the quiet mountains and the bustling urban environment is striking. Your vehicle will drop you off at your hotel, typically located in Thamel or Lazimpat. Here, hot showers, soft beds, and a return to modern comforts feel like a well-deserved reward.

Please note that flight schedules can be greatly impacted by weather conditions. This may lead to delays, especially on the designated rotation day. If your flight needs to be postponed until the next day, please prepare for an additional overnight stay at the lodge in Lukla. We appreciate your understanding and flexibility in these situations, as safety is our top priority.

Today, we have a free day to explore the vibrant city of Kathmandu on our own. You may want to spend the day indulging in some souvenir shopping, wandering around the colorful streets and bazaars, or enjoying the local cuisine. You could also visit some of the popular tourist attractions in the city, such as Bhaktapur or Patan, which showcase Nepal's rich cultural and historical heritage. Alternatively, you could engage in other activities like hiking, biking, or adventure sports, or simply relax and rejuvenate in one of the city's many spas and wellness centers. Whatever you choose to do, make sure to soak up the unique sights, sounds, and flavors of this wonderful city.

Today, we will transfer to Kathmandu International Airport for our departure. After enjoying a hearty breakfast at the hotel, we will gather our belongings and make our way to the airport. We will ensure that we reach the airport well in time to complete all the necessary formalities and board our flight. Before we bid adieu to this enchanting country, take one last look at the breathtaking views of the Himalayas and take a moment to appreciate the warm hospitality and kindness of the Nepalese people. This marks the end of our tour, and we hope you had a memorable and enjoyable time in Nepal.