Day 01Arrival in Kathmandu (1,345m/4,429ft) – Welcome to Nepal!
Depending on how you plan to arrive at Kathmandu, we will arrange for you to arrive at your hotel.
If you're flying into Tribhuvan International Airport, your guide will greet you and escort you to the hotel. A program briefing with your group will be held in the evening. Late arrivals will have their briefing and group meeting at breakfast the following morning.
- Accommodation: Hotel Manaslu, Deluxe Heritage & Boutique Hotel, 4-star
- Meals: Welcome Dinner
- Transportation: Private Transfer
Day 02Guided Tour of UNESCO heritage sites in Kathmandu & Program Preparation
This day serves as a contingency day in case of any delays, cancellations, or redirections of flights to Lukla.
After breakfast, you'll explore Kathmandu Valley's UNESCO heritage sites with a guided tour. You begin with Swayambhu Nath Stupa, a hilltop Buddhist and Hindu pilgrimage site and the oldest religious site in Nepal. It offers stunning views of the valley. From there, you'll head to Kathmandu Durbar Square, a complex of palaces, temples, and monuments built by the Malla kings, and also visit the palace museum. While the 2015 earthquake caused damage, renovations are underway. Afterward, you'll walk back to your hotel through the vibrant Asan Market, a traditional Newari hub where you can find everything from spices to electronics. The market is known for its narrow streets, mix of old and new architecture, and bustling atmosphere. Back in Thamel, you'll have a final briefing for the Everest Base Camp trek and get our gear ready. In the evening, we'll enjoy a group welcome dinner.
- Accommodation: Hotel Manaslu, Deluxe Heritage & Boutique Hotel 4 star
- Meals: Breakfast (BB Base)
- Transportation: Private Transfer
Day 03Scenic Flight to Lukla (2,860m/9,383ft) and Trek to Phakding (2,660m/8,727ft) – 7km, 3–4 hours
The adventure begins with an early morning flight to Lukla. If weather permits, breathtaking views of the Eastern Himalayas unfolds itself. Upon landing, we meet our porters and Sherpa crew who will accompany us on this journey. After breakfast in Lukla, we start our trek, following a picturesque trail through small hamlets, lush forests, and suspension bridges over the Dudhkoshi River.
Along the way, you'll have a chance to meet local Sherpas (mostly Buddhists) and see highlights like the suspension bridge at Ghat, a large boulder with Tibetan scriptures, and a mani wall near Phakding, our stop for the night. The stunning Mt. Thamserku will also make an appearance, welcoming us to the Himalayas.
- Accommodation: Local Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
- Transportation: Scheduled Flight
Day 04Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,286ft) – 10km, 7–8 hours
You'll start another fantastic hiking day with a good mountain breakfast, fueling up for the varied terrain and increasing altitude ahead. The rolling trail from Phakding begins relatively easily alongside the Dudh Koshi River, offering pleasant walking through lush forests. Keep an eye out for wild beehives high on the cliffs. The trail gets more interesting as you approach Toktok and its landslide crossing, followed by the refreshing spray of a small waterfall at Benkar. After Benkar, you'll cross a suspension bridge, a taste of what's to come, and arrive at the charming village of Monjo, where you'll need to show your National Park permits. From there, the trail gradually begins its ascent, continuing to Jorsalle where you can enjoy lunch with views of the famous twin suspension bridge over the Dudh Koshi River.
After lunch, the real climb begins. You'll cross the bridge and start the more challenging ascent to Namche. This section of the trail is where you'll really feel the altitude. The gradual climb, though demanding, allows for better acclimatization. As you gain elevation, the scenery becomes even more spectacular. If the weather's clear, you might catch your first breathtaking glimpse of Everest, Nuptse, and Lhotse at Top Danda. The sense of accomplishment upon reaching the bustling Sherpa town of Namche is immense. You'll have the rest of the day to explore, relax, and acclimatize further. Treat yourself to some real coffee and pastries, browse the gear shops, or simply unwind at your lodge with a book, enjoying the rewards of your trek so far.
- Accommodation: Local Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 05Acclimatization Day – Explore Hotel Everest View and Khumjung Village (3,880m/12,729ft)
You will go on an acclimatization hike to Hotel Everest View. It is crucial for your body to adjust to the higher altitude, helping to prevent altitude sickness later in the trek. The hike is a moderately strenuous climb, taking about 2-3 hours each way. It's a good workout, but the panoramic views from the top are definitely worth it! From Hotel Everest View, you'll have incredible views of Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Nuptse, and many other Himalayan giants.
On the way back down, you'll get to explore Khumjung Village, one of the oldest Sherpa villages in the region, offering a glimpse into traditional mountain life. The monastery there is particularly beautiful, with intricate artwork. Khumjung is also known for its unique local culture.
Later on, you can wander around Namche Bazaar – check out the lively market, where you can pick up any last-minute trekking gear you might need or browse for souvenirs. You can also visit the Sherpa Cultural Museum to learn more about the local traditions, or simply relax at a cafe and enjoy the bustling atmosphere of this mountain town. Namche is a great place to recharge before continuing your trek.
For those who prefer a less strenuous option, a shorter hike to the nearby viewpoint overlooking Namche Bazaar offers equally impressive views and is a great way to acclimatize as well.
- Accommodation: Local Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 06Trek to Tengboche (3,885m/12,746ft) – 9.5km, 6–7 hours
The trail to Tengboche is a mix of gentle ridges, steep descents, and uphill climbs.
The trail begins with a descent to the Dudh Koshi River, where you'll cross a suspension bridge at Phungi Thanga, your lunch spot. From there, a gradual climb takes you through beautiful rhododendron forests, which are especially vibrant during spring. Along the way, you'll pass through several Sherpa villages, offering a chance to experience the local culture. As you hike, keep an eye out for breathtaking views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and other impressive peaks.
The day culminates in Tengboche, home to the famous Tengboche Monastery. This important Buddhist site sits on a ridge, providing incredible panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan giants.
- Accommodation: Local Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 07Trek to Dingboche (4,220m/13,845ft) – 9km, 5–6 hours
You’ll descend gently through a mixed forest of pine, juniper, rhododendron and Himalayan Birch at Deboche, a small hamlet of scattered houses and a nunnery. Further ahead, you’ll cross the Imja River before trekking uphill to Pangboche, a historic Sherpa village.
Along the way, you'll be treated to an absolutely breathtaking view of Ama Dablam. This magnificent mountain, with its striking twin peaks, will be on full display, a truly unforgettable sight.
From Pangboche onwards, you'll experience a mix of challenging terrain and incredible rewards. The upper trail from Pangboche, your route toward Everest Base Camp, offers stunning views of Ama Dablam. (A separate lower trail goes to the Imja River and Ama Dablam base camp.) You'll climb gradually to Somare (4,000m), where the landscape transitions to a more alpine environment. After lunch in Somare, a relatively level path leads to the climb up to the Dingboche valley rim.
This basin-shaped valley opens up before you, revealing a dramatic panorama of towering peaks. As you descend into Dingboche, you'll notice the sparse vegetation and the quiet hum of solar panels-a reminder of the altitude. Electricity is limited here, mainly solar-powered, so charging devices might cost a small fee. While the trek can be demanding, the beauty of Everest, Lhotse, and the other surrounding mountains makes it truly worthwhile, and reaching Dingboche gives you a real sense of accomplishment.
- Accommodation: Local Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 08Acclimatization Day – Hike to Nangkartshang Peak (5,100m/16,726ft)
Now that you've passed the 4,000-meter mark, you'll continue your acclimatization by hiking up to Nangkartshang Peak and then descending to sleep in Dingboche. Nangkartshang Peak is located directly north of the Dingboche valley. The climb to the summit is generally easy, aside from a bit of scrambling over some loose rocks and the challenge of the altitude itself.
From the top, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of Kangtega, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Taboche, and three of the world's highest peaks: Makalu, Lhotse, and Cho Oyu. The Imja Glacier winding through the valley below is also a spectacular sight.
- Accommodation: Local Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 09Trek to Lobuche (4,970m/16,305ft) – 6.5km, 5–6 hours
As you leave Dingboche, the landscape becomes more barren, the air thinner, and the vegetation sparse-almost desert-like. But with every breath, you'll feel yourself getting closer to the majestic mountains.
The morning's views are similar to what you've already seen. You'll take the high trail above the Lobuche River to Thukla, where you'll stop for lunch. The steep climb to Lobuche is visible from here, but don't underestimate it! The ascent to Thukla Pass, a vertical climb of nearly 220 meters, can be challenging. At the pass, you'll find a wide-open area with an Everest memorial park, a poignant tribute to those who lost their lives on Everest. Stone cairns dot the landscape, creating a somber atmosphere. From here, you'll follow the Lobuche River to Lobuche village, the last permanent settlement on the EBC trail.
- Accommodation: Local Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 10Trek to Gorakshep (5,180m/16,994ft) and Hike to Everest Base Camp (5,364m/17,598ft) – 7–8 hours
It's the day you've been waiting for-Everest Base Camp! You'll start early and rejoin the EBC trail, beginning with a steady climb along the Khumbu Glacier. The trail then descends to a glacial runoff before climbing up to the Gorakshep valley rim. Gorakshep, a seasonal settlement with lodges, sits on a frozen lakebed. The views here are otherworldly-a landscape of rock, vast skies, and colossal peaks, though often shared with other trekkers, yaks, and helicopters.
After a quick lunch and settling in, you'll embark on the roughly 3-hour hike to EBC. The trail, mostly scree with some ups and downs, leads you to the foot of Everest. While Everest's summit isn't visible from base camp itself (you'll get partial views along the trail), reaching this point is a truly unique experience. It's especially memorable during climbing season (April-May), when the base camp is a vibrant scene of colorful tents and bustling activity. After spending some time at EBC, you'll hike back down to Gorakshep. An early night is recommended to rest up for the morning excursion to Kalapattar.
- Accommodation: Local Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 11Sunrise at Kalapattar (5,545m/18,192ft) and backtrack to Lobuche, 5-6 hours
The Kalapattar hike is challenging but incredibly rewarding-it's your chance to witness Everest's full majesty, towering above everything.
You'll start very early, ideally around 4:30 am. The initial climb on a well-worn trail north of Gorakshep is relatively easy, but after about an hour, the path becomes rocky and uneven as you approach the summit. Reaching Kalapattar at dawn is ideal, allowing you to witness a spectacular sunrise over Everest, surrounded by Nuptse, Changtse, Ama Dablam, Chumbu, Thamserku, Kangtega, Taboche, and Lobuche.
While the views are breathtaking, be prepared for rapidly changing mountain weather, including strong winds. After enjoying the summit views, you'll descend to Gorakshep for a well-deserved breakfast and then retrace your steps to Lobuche.
- Accommodation: Local Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 12Trek to Lobuche East Base Camp (5,050m)
From Lobuche, we ascend gradually to the base camp, where your climbing guide will brief you and provide basic training on the use of mountaineering equipment, including ropes, crampons, and ice axes. This preparation ensures a safer and more confident climb.
- Accommodation: Tents / Camping
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Time: 2 hours of trekking
Day 13Ascend to Lobuche East High Camp (5,600m)
The trek to high camp involves a steep climb over rocky terrain and glacial moraine. Once we reach the camp, tents are pitched in a serene spot with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
- Accommodation: Tents / Camping
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Time: 3 hours of trekking
Day 14Summit Day and Descend to Base Camp (6,119m)
This day marks the culmination of our journey as we ascend Lobuche East Peak. Starting early under headlamps, we navigate the glacier and ascend steep sections using fixed ropes. At the summit, breathtaking 360-degree views reward our efforts. After savoring the achievement, we descend carefully to base camp for the night.
- Accommodation: Tents / Camping
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Time: 8-9 hours of trekking and climbing
Day 15Trek Down to Tengboche (3,867m)
We begin our backtrack on the Everest Base Camp highway to Tengboche.
- Accommodation: Local Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Time: 6 hours of trekking
Day 16Trekking Back to Phakding (2,835m)
You’ll backtrack to Monjo on the same trail.
- Accommodation: Local Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Time: 6 hours of trekking
Day 17Fly Back to Kathmandu (1,350m)
You’ll retrace your steps back to Lukla, and fly back to Kathmandu. The rest of the day is at leisure.
- Accommodation: Hotel Manaslu, Deluxe Heritage & Boutique Hotel 4 star
- Meals: Breakfast
- Flight Duration: 25 minutes
- Transportation: Private Transfer
- Driving Duration: 35 minutes
Day 18Leisure day in Kathmandu
Enjoy a free day in Kathmandu to rest, shop, or explore the city's cultural sites in Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur. In the evening you’re invited to a farewell dinner with your guide to celebrate your successful Lobuche Peak expedition.
- Accommodation: Hotel Manaslu, Deluxe Heritage & Boutique Hotel 4 star
- Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 19Final Departure
On your last day, our representative will escort you to the airport for your onward flight. With unforgettable memories of the Lobuche East Peak expedition, you depart Nepal with stories to share and dreams to return.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Transportation: Private Transfer
- Driving Duration: 35 minutes
Important Note: The itinerary presented above is a suggested plan and can be customized according to your preferences. At Everest Sherpa Expedition, we understand that every adventurer is unique. If you have specific needs or wants, or if you wish to modify the number of days and explore different destinations, our team is here to help. We are committed to creating the best possible experience for you. Contact us to discuss your ideas and embark on a personalized adventure
