Everest Base Camp Leisurely Trek – 16 Days

Today is your acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar. As you gain altitude, it’s important for your body to adjust to the thinner air at higher elevations. The settlement offers various vantage points for acclimatization hikes.

Head to one of these vantage points at dawn and dusk to witness the breathtaking view of the Himalayas. The rays of the sun illuminate the snow-covered peaks of Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Kongde, and Lhotse. Later, visit the Sherpa Culture Museum to learn about Sherpa culture, traditions, and customs.

In the afternoon, explore some of the finest bakeries, cafés, restaurants, and shops in Namche Bazaar, which are a rare find on most trekking trails in the country.

After an early breakfast, follow the Imja Khola as the trail climbs towards the village of Shomare and crosses the tree line. From here, the terrain changes into arid, dry landscapes with patches of conifers, scrub, and isolated pasture lands. Cross the grazing lands and dotted stone huts, passing through the settlements of Orsho and Tsuro Wog. The trail then descends to a point near the confluence of the Imja Khola and Khumbu Khola. Finally, climb a low ridge to reach the sprawling hamlet of Dingboche, a cold and windy region with sub-zero night temperatures even in summer.

Today is your second acclimatization day. The settlement offers various vantage points ideal for acclimatization excursions. After breakfast, hike to Nagarjuna Peak, standing at 5,089 meters. This hike marks an important personal achievement, as it will be your first time reaching a peak above 5,000 meters. This climb is part of your acclimatization day before heading to your next destination, Lobuche Village at 4,900 meters. Later, return to the hotel and enjoy a free and leisurely evening. Stay overnight. Meals include breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

On today’s trail to Lobuche, you’ll find yourself surrounded by the majestic Himalayas, with mountains on all sides capturing your imagination. You’ll pass through Dusa, where you’ll see herdsmen’s uninhabited stone huts. From here, head towards Dughla and then to Chupki Lhara, where you’ll encounter large heaps of stones adorned with prayer flags, serving as memorials for the mountaineers who perished while attempting to climb Mt. Everest and other peaks in the region.

After a brief ascent, you’ll be treated to views of the pristine blue waters of Chola Lakes. From Chupki Lhara, the trail descends to the Khumbu glacier moraine, where you’ll walk alongside the three great peaks: Khumbutse, Lingtren, and Pumori. A final stretch along a murmuring stream will lead you to the settlement of Lobuche.

Today’s trek is long and tough, so start early. The first part of the trek takes you through high Himalayan pasture lands and grassy terrains with rocky, scattered boulders. Along the way, you’ll witness the snowy walls of lofty mountains ahead. A 60-meter (200-foot) ascent brings you to the top of the lateral moraine wall of the Changri glacier, to a leveled spot called Thangma Riju. Here, you’ll enjoy a spectacular 360-degree panorama of the Himalayan giants: Taboche, Lobuche, Pumori, and the rest of the Mahalangur Himal peaks, with views extending to Tibet and Nuptse on the eastern horizon.

From here, the trail crosses the moraine of the Changri glacier and later joins the Khumbu glacier from the west. You’ll need to traverse steep, stony slopes to reach Gorak Shep, so take extra caution. As you reach Gorak Shep, you’ll catch your first glimpse of Kala Patthar.

At Gorak Shep, leave your heavy backpack and head towards Everest Base Camp, walking alongside the banks of the shallow blue waters of Gorak Shep Lake, with views of Changtse and Lho La peaks in close proximity. Cross glaciers, icefalls, frozen pools of meltwater, exposed icy walls, and large boulders to reach Everest Base Camp. After exploring the base camp, descend back to Gorak Shep for the night.

Today, you’ll head to the famous vantage point of Kala Patthar, a popular spot for trekkers. Start early after a light breakfast, passing through the wide, sandy bed of a dried lake and traversing a steep zigzag trail. As you ascend, you’ll witness views of Lingtren, Khumbutse, and Changtse. Climbing higher, you’ll be treated to a grand view of the Khumbu glacier and the Nuptse massif. The final stretch to the summit of Kala Patthar offers views of endless rows of high mountains, including Mt. Everest.

After spending a brief time at the summit, retrace your steps back to Gorak Shep, then continue to Lobuche. From Dughla, take a different trail towards Pheriche along the Khumbu Khola. Once you reach Pheriche, head to your tea house and rest.

From Pheriche, the trail descends to Tsuro Wog after crossing a bridge over the Khumbu Khola. From Tsuro Wog, continue descending, passing through the settlements of Orsho, Shomare, and Upper Pangboche, and finally reaching Tengboche. Tengboche village is home to the world-famous Tengboche Monastery, the largest monastery in the Everest region, with views of Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku in the backdrop. After checking in at your tea house, take some time to explore the area.

From Tengboche, continue towards Phunki Tenga and descend to Sanasa and Kyangjuma, eventually reaching Namche Bazaar. Along the trail, you’ll pass through subtropical wet hill forests of rhododendrons, a mix of conifers, oaks, orchids, and moss-draped trees, with miles of undergrowth.

Once you reach Namche Bazaar, head to your accommodation and later explore the area. There are various restaurants and pubs in the vicinity where you can unwind and enjoy local cuisine and drinks.

Today start walking to Namche Bazaar on a downhill hike along the Dudh Koshi River route before arriving at Lukla, cross multiple suspension bridges, and pass through various ancient monasteries and settlements. Once you arrive at Lukla rest later and celebrate your last day in the mountains.

After an early morning breakfast, make your way to Lukla Airport and board your flight back to Kathmandu. The picturesque flight from Lukla to Kathmandu is a delightful experience. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you’ll be driven to your accommodation.

The Kathmandu Valley is home to various tourist attractions. You can opt for a guided tour to explore the city’s highlights or venture out on your own. Later in the evening, join in for a special dinner program to commemorate the end of your adventure, accompanied by your guide and our representatives.

Today marks your return journey home. An Alpine Club of Himalaya representative will ensure you arrive at the airport three hours prior to your flight’s departure. If you wish to extend your stay, feel free to consult us for short tours such as game drives at national parks, rafting, mountain biking, or tours to Tibet, India, or Bhutan, among others.

Meals: Breakfast

If you have any inquiries or require assistance or further information about this trip or any other trips, please do not hesitate to contact the Alpine Club of Himalaya.