Overview

Trekking in the Enchanting Shadows of Everest
A Himalayan trek, an ardent trekkers’ haven, to the base camp of Everest is one of the most sought-after treks, all in the enchanting and surreal landscape of the world’s highest peak. The trek, in itself, brings out the best in a trekker’s ability. The spirit to carry on is inspired in you by the smiling faces of the Sherpa community who have acclimatized to this high altitude.

The trek, though arduous, is made possible by the monasteries nestled on the rugged heights; the fluttering flags and boulders inscribed with prayers; the little brooks just emancipated from the glaciers; and herds of yaks grazing lazily, all mesmerizing you while trekking up or down the tortuous trails.

Each day’s trek culminates in a lodge—rather the hospitable home of a local inhabitant—for a sumptuous meal and a warm bed. The trek is all about endurance, inspiration, natural beauty, the conquest of one’s inner spiritual self and much more. Many have returned to do it all over again.

Trip Highlights

Domestic Flights: Experience a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region.
Guided Trek: Our experienced guides will lead you through the iconic Khumbu Valley, sharing their knowledge of the local flora, fauna, and culture.
Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in the Sherpa culture, visit high-altitude Buddhist monasteries, and witness the unparalleled beauty of Sagarmatha National Park.
Alternative Routes: Choose from alternative trails like the Gokyo Valley trek or the Three Passes trek for unique perspectives and additional cultural insights.

Day 1 :

Arrival in Kathmandu

You will be met at Tribhuwan International Airport by a representative of Green Lotus Trekking holding a welcome placard and token card for your overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu and to freshen up. Prior to dinner a briefing will be held. You could spend the rest of the day resting or wandering around the city of Kathmandu sightseeing.

Day 2 :

Fly to Lukla, Trek to Phakding (2610m) (Approx 3-4 hrs Trek)

From Kathmandu, 35 minutes or drive to Manthali/Ramechhap (474 m) – 5 to 6 hours and a 20 minutes flight to Lukla, and then trek to Phakding (2,610 m) – 3 to 4 hours. Overnight at a guesthouse.

Day 3 :

To Namche Bazaar (3440m) (Approx 7 hrs Trek)

After short while from Pakding, you will cross the river and move up the valley; the trail stays close to the river valley – beautiful sight with blue pine and rhododendron forest. You again cross the Dudh Koshi River near Benkar, getting glimpses of the snow-studded crowns of Kusum Kanguru (6369m) and Thamserku (6623m). A short hike to Monjo (2835m) gets you there at lunch time. The trek here is along flat terrain till the confluence of the Bhote and Dudh Kosi Rivers, after which you start your steep climb at a steady pace to Namche Bazaar. Here is a chance to showcase your photographic skills of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Taweche initially.

Day 4 :

Acclimatization at Namche Bazaar (3400m)

Today you will acclimatize for the day to the altitude you are at. Namche Bazaar is a prosperous town which gained popularity when salt was traded to Tibet from the low lands. It is still a market town for village rugs, Chinese-made products, clothes, salt, and dried meat. Take the opportunity to view the sunrise and set at the national park above the town and to get a stunning view of Everest and other Khumbu peaks. If not, a variety of options are available-a walk to Thami (3810M) above the Bhote Khola River Valley or to the National Park to see the interesting Sherpa lifestyle and information on the flora and fauna. Your guide will offer you advice and escort you on your walk.

Day 5 :

To Devuche (3810m) (Approx 6 hrs Trek)

The trail moves to the side of the valley, high above the Dudh Kosi. Here we get a really good view of the peaks of the Khumbu region, such as Mount Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. Trekking past a few villages and many teahouses, we move down steeply to a bridge over a river at Phunki Tenga, a proper place for rest and lunch before we hit the steep climb to Tengboche, dropping off just before we hit Devuche. The trail is a taxing zigzag but is rewarded with the pretty sights of rhododendron bushes, beautiful birds, and mountain scenery.

Day 6 :

To Dingboche (4360m) (Approx 4 hrs Trek)

After a short descent, you will cross the Imjo Khola (stream). The trail gradually climbs with a wonderful view of Ama Dablam (mountain) onto the village of Pangboche, from where we head towards Tawachee. The walk becomes more pleasing as you ascend high above the Imjo Khola and teahouses at Orsho, ahead of crossing the river and old glacial moraines as we head to Dingboche. You are always above the tree line and can expect a spectacular sunset. Since it is a tiring walk, it is advisable to take the advice of the guide.

Day 7 :

Acclimatization at Dingboche (4360m)

At Dingboche, we get to acclimatize to the high altitude. It is a beautiful patchwork of petite fields surrounded by stone walls. The Tawachee seem to touch the heavens. Your guide may advise you on a short trip to Chukkung, a valley; it’s a worthwhile short excursion where you get to see the south face of Lhotse and Island Peak. A hike up the hill will give you a scintillating view of the fifth highest mountain, Makalu.

Day 8 :

To Lobuche (4930m) (Approx 6.5 hrs Trek)

Early you will ascend a small ridge behind the village above the Pherich Valley. From this height, Taweche and Cholatse are a wonderful sight. Towards the north Lubuje Peak and the snowfields of Chola capture the skyline. Walking is quite flat but beware to top up on fluids. Late morning you will cross Khumbu Khola (stream) and sit down for lunch at the foot of moraine of Khumbu Glacier fed by Everest. The afternoon climb will be quite steep to the top of the moraine. The top of the crest, you will pass memorial cairns of dead Sherpas and other of Everest expeditions. Here you get a spectacular view of Pumori (7145m), Lingtren(6697m), Khumbutse(6623m) and Changtse(7750m) in Tibet. You will follow a stream to Lobuche. The trip may be tiring but worth the while.

Day 9 :

Everest Base Camp and Gorekshep (5160m) (Approx 5 hrs Trek)

We follow the winding Khumbu Glacier through ice pinnacles and crevasses. Everest Base Camp does not hold any permanent settlement except the dotted camps of those aspiring to scale Everest. Later, we trek down via the Khumbu Glacier to the summer pastoral camp of the yak headers at Gorekshep.

Day 10 :

To Kalla Pattar and Pheriche (4240m) (Approx 5 hrs Trek)

An early morning trek takes us to Kalla Pattar (Black Rock)(5545m), from where we get the most majestic and best vantage point view of Everest and the sun rising over it. On satiation of Everest, we descend down till we reach a forest across the Imja Khola (stream) to Pangboche Village, which stands opposite Ama Dablam (6,856m) with special views of the gompas and Mani walls against the backdrop of the mountain. A couple of hours’ walk would take us to Pheriche.

Day 11 :

To Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) - Duration 7-8 hrs trek

After enjoying a hearty breakfast, we begin our descent to Namche, retracing the trail we previously followed. As we trek, we pass through Pangboche village and then continue on to Tengboche village. We cross a suspension bridge and proceed along a forest trail, eventually arriving at Namche Bazaar.

Day 12 :

To Lukla (2,840 m) - Duration 7-8 hrs trek

Today marks the conclusion of your Everest Base Camp adventure as we make our way to Lukla. After breakfast, we depart from Namche Bazaar and begin our trek back to Lukla. Since this is your final day in the Everest region, take some time to explore the village and reflect on the unforgettable experiences you've had along the trail. Celebrate the lifelong memories you've created during this journey.

Day 13 :

Return to Kathmandu (1400m)

Option 1: Lukla to Manthali Flight (March, April, May, October, and November) Flight Duration: 20 minutes from Lukla to Manthali. Ground Transfer: Following the flight, there is a 5 to 6-hour drive to Kathmandu. Please note that driving times may vary depending on highway traffic conditions. Transfer: Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel via a shared tourist vehicle. Option 2: Lukla to Kathmandu Flight (January, February, June, July, August, September, and December) Flight Duration: Approximately 35 minutes from Lukla to Kathmandu. Transfer: Upon arrival at the airport in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel via a shared tourist vehicle. Important Note: Flight operations are subject to airline decisions and may vary based on traveler volume during specific months. Helicopter Option Cost: USD 550 per person (based on a group of 5 passengers). Details: For those looking to avoid the long drive from Manthali to Kathmandu during peak seasons (March, April, May, October, and November), a direct helicopter flight from Lukla to Kathmandu is available. This option provides a quicker and more convenient alternative.

Day 14 :

Farewell from Kathmandu

The trip concludes – our airport representative will drop you to Kathmandu’s Tribhuwan International Airport for your flight departure from Nepal.

Expand all

What is the best time of year to trek?

You can find good places to trek somewhere in the Himalayas at anytime of the year. However, for most regions, the best time is from October to May, with October to November having the best weather for trekking. During the autumn, nights are cold in the high Himalaya, but the bright sun makes for a pleasant daytime temperature (20 degrees centigrade to 5 degrees centigrade in the night). Above 3500m, the temperature range goes down to -10 degrees centigrade, and in winter (Dec-Jan), it is about 10 degrees colder.

How fit do I have to be to do a trek?

While you do not need to be super-fit, you need to be fit enough to comfortably walk for 5–6 hours per day in the mountains on reasonable trails. Most of our customers have an interest in walking in the hills or countryside of their homeland and are used to similar daily trips.

What is the typical group size? Will I fit in?

We pride ourselves on our small group approach to adventure travel. Small groups allow you to share great company without crowding your experience. Our typical groups range in size from 2 up to 8. One of the attractions of such a trip is the chance to meet people with different backgrounds and personalities.

What if the dates for the group treks don’t fit my itinerary?

If this is the case, we can organize a personalized trek for you. Additionally, if you want to spend more time in Kathmandu before or after a trek, we can organize the hotels and quote you a price.

Are your tours guaranteed to run?

If you are a group of two or more, the trip is guaranteed to run.

Do I need to buy special equipment?

Usually, our clients simply bring their existing clothing and equipment and, if necessary, supplement this with some extra items purchased cheaply in Kathmandu.

What gear to bring?

Passport (with photocopies)
Photos for Nepal visa on arrival:
Travel insurance (with photocopies)
flight tickets (photocopies)
Daypack for daily personal items
For Trekking:
Walking boots
Light sandals or plimsolls to wear in the lodges
2 pairs of underwear.
2 pairs of walking socks.
2 thick fleece or warm shirts
1 pair thin thermal underwear
Long trousers for walking (or a long skirt for women)
T-shirt
Shorts
Gloves (it’s cold on the Thorung La, Laurebina Pass and Cho La)
A warm hat which covers your ears (for the Kali Gandaki and Thorung La – it’s windy)
Base ball caps or broad brim hats to keep the sun off (Australian Barmah recommended)
Sunglasses (vital)
Sun cream
Soap dish and soap
small towel
Toothbrush and toothpaste.
Wet wipes or moist towelettes
Hand sanitizing lotion
Head torch
Moisturizer, Lip balm
Tampons are hard to buy in rural areas.
Ear plugs for light sleepers
Toiletries
Sheet of plastic (use as a poncho if it rains)
1 toilet paper rollYou can buy more on the way.
2 large plastic bags. One for smelly clothes, one for things that must be kept dry.
A small, good quality padlock
Water bottle
Iodine tablets for water purification
Protein bars, chocolate, dried fruits, candies, and snack foods.

Notes: All of the trekking items are available in Kathmandu at nominal prices. However, we suggest you bring hiking boots from your home country if you decide to purchase these items in Kathmandu .

Can I store stuff that I do not use on a trek?

Yes, all hotels provide storage facilities for free.

Do I need travel insurance?

Personal travel insurance is not included in the tour price. It is a condition of booking a tour with Green Lotus Trekking, and your responsibility to ensure that the type of tour you are undertaking, the policy must include satisfactory cover for repatriation, high altitudes, trekking and climbing, and helicopter rescue. Please forward your insurance details (e.g. policy number, 24-hour emergency telephone number, and name of insurance company) to Green Lotus Trekking when available.

Do I need a visa to visit Nepal?

Yes. You can apply in your home country through the Nepalese Embassy or Consulate or obtain it at the airport on arrival by paying a fee as below:

Multiple entries for 15 days: $25 USD
Multiple entries for 30 days: $40 USD
Multiple entries within 90 days: US $100
Notes: We suggest you bring the exact change. You also need to bring two passport-size photos.

Tourist Visa Extension

The visa extension fee for 15 days or less is US $ 30 or equivalent convertible currency, and the visa extension fee for more than 15 days is US$ 2 per day.

A tourist visa can be extended for a maximum period of 150 days in a single visa year (January–December).

Gratis (Free) Visa

A gratis visa for 30 days is available only for tourists from SAARC countries.

Indian nationals do not require a visa to enter Nepal.

I am a single traveler. How does this work?

Normally single trekkers have no problems fitting in with a group. Normally single trekkers share rooms or lodges with other trekkers of the same sex, but if we have an odd-number we ensure that a room or lodge is organised accordingly.

How will my booking be processed?

To confirm your booking, we will require a deposit of $250 for treks and $300 for peak climbing, which can be made by bank transfer or online through paypal.com (the leading transaction site). The balance is payable on arrival in Kathmandu with cash or traveler’s cheque. Alternatively, the balance can be paid by bank transfer or PayPal shortly before arriving in Kathmandu.

Besides deposit payment, what other information do I need to forward?

The following details are needed to process your trekking permit, national park permit, flight booking etc.

Gender:
First Name:
Last Name:
Passport number:
Expiry date:
Issue location:
Nationality:
Year of birth:
Occupation:
Your arrival details (time, date, flight number, airline)

All the above info can be sent electronically via email.

How far do I trek each day?

You will typically walk 4–9 miles (5-8 hours) each day. Some days may be rest days for impromptu exploration. In high and steep areas, you may move more slowly. Most people begin to feel the effects of high altitude over about 2000 meters, and your trekking pace is always adjusted to permit safe acclimatization. Our treks follow established trails used by local people. You will probably carry only a light daypack.

How flexible is the trekking day?

You can hike at your own pace, stopping when you wish. There is ample time to cover the necessary hiking distance each day with lots of stops. If you are on a private trek, you may wish to take more or fewer days to cover a given distance, or add in rest days. If you like to hike fast, your guide will be concerned that you acclimatize to high altitude effectively. You may wish to reach camp at a measured pace, but take a side hike after arriving at camp. Your guide is always interested in learning about your personal interests and accommodating those interests as the trip permits.

What is altitude sickness?

Altitude sickness, often known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), is a particularly important medical consideration while trekking in Nepal. Altitude sickness means the effect of altitude on those who ascend too rapidly to elevations above 3000 meters. The initial symptoms of AMS are as follows:

nausea, vomiting
Loss of appetite
Insomnia or sleeplessness
Persistent headaches
Dizziness, light headaches, confusion,
Disorientation, drunken gait
Weakness, fatigue, lassitude, heavy legs, slight swelling of hands and face.
Breathlessness and breathing irregularly
Reduced urine output

These symptoms are to be taken very seriously. In the event of the appearance of any of the above symptoms, any further ascent should be reconsidered; otherwise more serious problems can occur, which can cause death, sometimes within a few hours. The only cure for altitude sickness is to descend to lower elevations immediately. Acclimatization by ascending to no more than 300 to 500 meters per day above 3000 meters and the proper amount of rest are the best methods for prevention of AMS.

Will I be able to deal with the high altitude?

Our itineraries are designed so that our clients ascend at a sensible and safe rate. The effects of altitude are felt by everyone, even the Sherpas, but most people find that gentle acclimatization allows them to reach their high point without any problems.

What are teahouse and camping treks?

Accommodation: There are a number of lodges along the popular trekking routes in the Annapurna, Everest, and Langtang regions. These lodges are called “Tea House Lodges” and are managed by local people. Private rooms, dormitories, toilets, shower rooms with hot and cold water, and one attached restaurant are among the basic requirements for overnight accommodation at these lodges.The quality of food offered might vary from lodge to lodge, but most serve simple and hygienic meals. The teahouse trek provides you an opportunity to feel the warm hospitality of friendly Nepali hosts. The money you spend goes to the local community.

Camping Trekking

In a typical camping trip, each pair of trekkers will sleep in a spacious mountain tent with a durable rain fly and full insect netting. The tent is fitted with foam mattresses. When your campsite is near villages or lodges, you may be invited to sleep in the lodges or homes of local people.

What are the typical foods on the treks?

Breakfast options include oatmeal,French toast,Chapatti, Tibetan bread, eggs, pancakes, muesli, and for lunch or dinner you can have sandwiches, soups, momo (dumplings), macaroni dishes, pizzas, noodles, steak, dal bhat (rice, lentils, veg platter), pasta, etc.

What is your guide like?

Our trekking guides are carefully selected for their ability and are generally from Sherpa, Tamang, Gurung, Magar, and other communities from remote mountain villages. Each guide is trained in eco-friendly trekking methods and safety measures. They help to maintain your health and your happiness as well as the crew members. Our guides are committed to making sure that all our trekkers have an enjoyable trek, come back safe and are overwhelmed by their experience. Your guide will be a friend and companion, who takes pleasure in showing you his country’s specialties and, perhaps, meeting his home and family too.

What about the Porters?

The majority of the fees our clients pay go directly into the community where you trek.

How much should I tip the guides and porters?

Tipping is at your discretion and always appreciated. A good rule of thumb is anywhere from $2–5 dollars per day for the guide and $1.5–3 dollars per day per porter. The total amount can then be divided among the group.

What is your Kathmandu contact address in case my family needs to contact me in an emergency?

Please have them contact us at any of the following numbers:

Cells: +977-9841250258, +977-9841269376

We check email frequently throughout the days so you could also write to our email: info@green-lotus-trekking.com if it’s not urgent.

Everest Base Camp Trekking

Overview

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Overview

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Everest Base Camp Itinerary

US $1190 Per Person

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