The name "Everest" is magic in itself. Everest (8848m.) is called
"SAGARMATHA" in Nepali - "Higher than the Sky" and "CHHOMOLUNGMA" in
Tibetan - "Mother Goddess of the Earth".
The Mount Everest or Solu Khumbu region is one of the most popular
trekking areas in Nepal - tinged with the romance of being so close to
the highest mountain in the world. The route lies in the highest
wildlife reserve in the world, the Sagarmatha National Park. It covers
an area of 1,148 sq. km. of Himalayan ecological zone. The park
altitudes range from 2,845m at Monju to the top of the world, UNESCO
listed the park as a World Heritage Site in 1979 for its unique
natural, cultural and landscape characteristics.
A trek in this region follows the course of the Dudh Kosi, the 'River
of Milk', gradually climbing through forests of rhododendron and
magnolia. It takes one to the foothills of the mightiest of the
mountains in the world. En route, one traverses through rhododendron
and pine forests, rivers, Sherpa villages and Buddhist Monasteries from
temperate to snow line regions. The Himalayas are best seen on this
trek as one traces the main route through the Khumbu region from the
Sherpa town of Namche Bazaar. Trekkers get a close view of the world's
greatest mountains, Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku,
Tawache and many other unnamed mountains and peaks.
For the people of this exotic region, the hard grind in the daily life
in the high Himalayas is interrupted by seasons of feasts and
festivals, marked by dancing and general merry making. Most festivals
are of religious nature and centre on the temples and monasteries, with
rites conducted by lamas (priests). These festivals are spread out
through the full moon days of May, June, July, August and November in
different sections of the Himalayas. While the Sherpas are the most
predominant people of Solukhumbu, in the lower region of Solu, the
Khaling Rai culture prevails as well. In Khumbu where agriculture land
is limited, livestock raising and trade is more important, while Solu
with less severe winters grows a variety of staple crops. |
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| Everest Base Camp Trek : 13 days |
The
Everest or Khumbu region is justifiably the most famous of all trekking
and mountain regions. Populated by Sherpas, the attractions of this
area are the majestic mountains, the high mountain villages, the
isolated monasteries, and the local peoples. This area includes the
highest mountain in the world, Everest at 8,848m., and many of the
world's 8,000m peaks such as Lhotse, Cho Oyu, and Makalu. First climbed
in 1953, Everest still holds a fascination for many; however the
Everest region boasts many more spectacular and beautiful mountains, as
well as some of the most rewarding trekking anywhere in the world.
The Everest Base Camp trek is a classic trek which follows in the
footsteps of Hillary & Tenzing and ends with an ascent of Kala
Pattar for superb views of Everest. Kala Patthar is also known as black
rock. Before reaching the Everest Base camp, the trail follows the
Khumbu Glacier with huge ice pinnacles soaring to unbelievable height.
This trek starts with an exhilarating 35 minutes mountain flight into
the airstrip at Lukla. From here you trek slowly upwards to the Sherpa
capital of Namche Bazaar, following the valley of the Dudh Kosi river.
It is not long before you glimpse your first view of Everest as it
peeks above the Lhotse-Nuptse ridge. At this point it is still many
days walk away, but with careful acclimatization it is not long before
you find yourself high up in the heart of the Khumbu region. You visit
Tengboche monastery en route before continuing on to your goal, an
ascent of Kala Pattar, a rocky outcrop to the west of Everest. This
vantage point gives fantastic views of the Ice Fall and South Col as
well as the immense south-west face of Everest which was first climbed
in 1975 by Chris Bonington's team. This is truly a classic trek, which
undoubtedly gives one of the best mountain views in the world.
Accommodation and food is provided in the local lodges. |
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| Facts of the Trek |
Duration: 13 Days
Trek type: Tea House
Max Altitude: 5545 m.
Minimum Pax: 1 +
Mode of travel: Flight
Grade: Moderate |
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Day 01 : Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2886m.) which takes about 30 minutes and
trek from Lukla to Phakding (2640 m.) and it takes approximately three
hours. You transfer to the domestic airport for your flight to Lukla.
It is a small town with an airport. There are few tea shops, lodges,
hotels and general stores. You begin today’s trek from Lukla following
a gentle climb up the mountainside on the left bank of the Dudh Koshi.
Nupla (5885m) can be seen in the distance on the opposite bank, is a
peak atop the Kongde Ridge. You descend a mountainside path that merges
into your route to Everest, with views to a valley to your right; and
at its far end, Kusum Kang (6367m.) The Dudh Kosi approaches as you
pass a Mani wall and arrive at Ghat teahouse. You continue along a
small path with many climbs and descents following the left bank of
Dudh Koshi to Phakding.
Day 02 : Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3440 m.) and it takes
approximately five hours. The trail starts through a level path along
the right bank. Thamserku looms skyward on the opposite bank. You cross
a stream and climb the terraced hill from the Dudh Koshi route, to
arrive at Bengar. The trail now climbs from the riverbed on the left
bank into the mountain, through a forest to Chumoa. You continue along
a path with many ups and downs; cross a stream, and pass by the tiny
village of Monjo. Now you descend the path of stone steps and return to
the right bank over a wooden bridge. After a short climb you come to
Jorsale’s teahouse and hotel, also stop at the National Park Service
where a park entrance fee is collected. After your departure from
Jorsale you enter a forested mountainside. You follow a short walk
along the riverbed of this V-shaped valley where the river forks - the
right is the Dudh Koshi and the left is the Bhote Koshi that leads to
Nampa La. After short distance along the Bhote Kosi you begin the steep
ascent to Namche Bazar. As the mountain path zigzags uphill, you will
emerge at a ridge top rest area that offers excellent views of Everest
(8848m) and Lhotse (8516m.) The climb eases somewhat, and Namche Bazar
appears ahead as you travel along the path surrounded by pines. Pass
the plateau where the Saturday bazaar is held and enter the village.
Namche Bazar (3440m) is surrounded on three sides by mountain ranges
and opens out only where it faces the Bhote Koshi. The village is a
central hub of the area and food, sundries and even mountain climbing
equipment may be purchased here.
Day 03 : Rest day at Namche Bazaar (3440 m.) for acclimatization. Namche is
tucked away between two ridges amidst the giant peaks of the Khumbu and
has an abundance of lodges, tea shops and souvenir shops as well as a
magnificent outlook. It is an ideal place to spend a rest day for
acclimatization to the high altitude before heading off towards
Tyangboche. For the acclimatization you walk upto Khhumjung where you
can visit monastery. Khhumjung is densely populated by Sherpa
community. You can also enjoy the splendid views of Everest, Ama
Dablam, Thamserku, Nuptse, Lhotse, Tawche, Kwangde and so on. Or you
can have an hour walk up to the Syangboche (3800m.) where Everest View
Hotel is situated above Namche for the outstanding view of Everest,
Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku and Kusum Kangaru. .There is also
good views from the National Park Centre and Museum just above the
town. This museum exhibits Sherpa culture.
Day 04 : Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tyangboche (3867 m.) which takes about five
hours. You leave the village for a climb to the top of a ridge and
level mountain path that offers an excellent panorama of Thamserku,
Kantega, and Kusum Kangrib. To the right there is a steep cliff that
drops down to the Dudh Kosi, faintly visible on the valley floor below.
As you make your way around a branch ridge, Ama Dablam (6812m) Everest,
Lhotse, Nuptse (7855m) and Tawoche (6501m) suddenly appear. After a
gentle descent the mountain path ends; you will come to the fork
leading to Gokyo. Now you descend past two tea houses and through the
village of Trashinga. Though you cannot see it, you can hear the Dudh
Kosi and soon you descend to the river and arrive at Phunki Tenga. It
is a long climb to Tyangboche; the first half is especially steep. As
you climb through the forested zone, the incline eases and a splendid
view appears. Continue climbing the mountainside diagonally until you
come to the stone gate built by lamas which marks your entry into
Tyangboche (3867m). You may use the large plateau in front of the
splendid monastery as your campsite. There are a lodge and hotel
managed by the National Park Service. Tyangboche is an important
lookout point on this course, and the sunset on Everest and Ama Dablam
is especially beautiful.
Day 05 :Trek
from Tyangboche to Dingboche (4260 m.) which takes approximately five
hours. Leave Tyangboche and the Khumbu mountains as a backdrop-and
descend a rhododendron covered area to emerge to a pleasant level area.
Pass a long Mani stone wall to enter the village of Deboche. Go on to
Minlinggo and leave the mountain path to cross over a suspension bridge
to the left bank of the Imja Khola. Climb the mountain path while
looking up at Ama Dablam and Kantega (6779m) as they appear on the
opposite bank. Ascend the chorten-lined route, come to a fork, the
upper path passes Pangboche and a monastery, take the lower path to
Pangboche Olin and its stone wall-enclosed potato field. Pass through
the village and cross a stream to a path skirting a rocky area to
terraced hills along the riverbank. The trails climb slowly, winding
above the Imjatse River, to a big Mani Stupa. From here, the walk is
fairly moderate as you enter the Imjatse Valley beneath the mighty
peaks of Ama Dablam, Nuptse and Lhotse with views of the eastern snow
capped mountains including the Island Peak or Imjatse (6,189m)
Dingboche is a beautiful patchwork of fields enclosed by stone walls
protecting the crops of barley, buckwheat and potatoes from the cold
winds and grazing animals.
Day 06 :Rest
day at Dingboche (4260 m.) for acclimatization. This is a remarkable
acclimatization day. There are some breathtaking views of the North
face of Ama Dablam and the Lhotse-Nuptse ridge as you explore this
beautiful valley that leads up to Island Peak. The walk is short with a
good chance to relax in the afternoon. You have another option as you
can hike upto Chhukum. From here you can enjoy the panoramic view of
Island peak, Ama Dablaml, Makalu, Tawoche peak and others. On the same
day you come back to Dingboche and have rest.
Day 07 : Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche (4930 m.) which takes about five and
half hours. The onward journey leads north for up to 50-minutes until
you come to a mani-prayer Stupa. The trail is gentle looking down to
Pheriche village below. Today's walk offers views of the Mt.Tawache,
Ama Dablam and to the north-Pokalde (5741m) Kongma-tse (5820m) and the
great wall of Nuptse. After two hours walk, the trail from Pheriche
joins near Dugla (4595m) before a small wooden bridge over the river of
Khumbu glacier. Stop at Dugla, for lunch, before continuing for an hour
up a steep hill to the top, where there are views of Mt. Pumori and
other peaks west of Everest. After a short break, continue trekking up
to Lobuche, hidden and sheltered from the wind.
Day 08 :Trek
from Lobuche to Everest Base Camp via Gorakshep (m.) and it takes about
seven hours. Trek up the valley following the rocky moraine path, view
icy glacial pond and icebergs down below of Khumbu glacier. After the
last rocky moraine dunes, a short downhill walk brings you to
Gorakshep, the flat field below Kala Patthar (5545m) and Mt. Pumori
(7145m.) Gorakshep is the location of the original Everest Base Camp
with the new camp being further up the valley. Now the trail winds
through rocky path and Khumbu glacier. The view of Nuptse, Lho-La and
Khumbutse appear at the front of you. Sometime the avalanche can be
seen on the way. After a great moment, you retrace back passing through
Khumbu glacier with magnificent views of Lobuche, Cholatse, Mt. Pumori
and Tabuche.
Day 09 :Trek
from Gorakshep to Kala Patthar (5545m.) and trek to Pheriche (4243m.)
and it takes about six hours. Early morning climb to Kala Patthar
(5545m.) and enjoy the view of sunrise. From Kala Patthar you can have
a panoramic view of Mt. Everest and many other mountain peaks like Mt.
Pumori, Mt. Lingtren, Mt. Khumbetse, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Ama
Dablam, Mt. Thamserku and many more. Pheriche is the place where one
can make phone calls to any part of the world. You can see the mountain
Yaks in Pheriche. Yaks are normally regarded as the porters in this
area. The town of Pheriche is known as windy town. There you can see
the perpendicular walls of Cholatse and Tawache. There is located
Himalayan Rescue Association Aid Post and foreign volunteer doctors are
to provide medical treatment to trekkers as well as local people.
Day 10 :Trek
from Pheriche to Tyangboche (3867 m.) which takes approximately four
hours. You can enjoy a morning visit to the research center. Then, trek
back to Tyangboche, an easier descent passing through rhododendron
forest. It is a small village with a famous monastery offering you the
splendid view of Ama Dablam, green hills and river views.
Day 11 :Trek
from Tyangboche to Namche Bazaar (3440 m ) which takes about four and
half hours. The walk from Tyangboche is mostly downhill on the main
busy trail with a few steep climbs for an hour from the bridge at
Phungitenga, near to Shanasha. The walk to Namche is very scenic on a
long winding path. En route you will visit traditional villages of
Khumjung and Khunde. There is an opportunity to visit one of its
monastery, the only monastery that has a Yeti Scalp. From Khumjung
village another 30 minutes walk brings you to the village of Khunde,
where you can visit the Khunde Hospital funded by Sir Edmund Hillary
Trust. After Khunde, a scenic and pleasant walk brings you to Namche
for the overnight.
Day 12 : Trek
from Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2886 m.) and it takes about five hours.
The last day of your trek leads from Namche Bazaar via Monjo to Lukla.
The trek is pleasant, except for few short uphill climbs and then down
to the Bhote-Koshi River crossing it three times. The last uphill climb
of 45 minutes will bring you to Lukla for your overnight stay.
Day 13 :Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu. You take an early morning flight back to Kathmandu. |
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| Services Included |
| National
Park entry permit, Trekking permit, Land transportation to and fro,
Accommodation in lodges during the trek, Food: three meals a day, A
guide & required number of porter(s), Essential equipment. |
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| Services Excluded |
| Personal
expenses, Insurance, Tips, Emergency evacuation by Helicopter,
Alternative transportation in case of heavy rain, landslide, strike,
road blockade etc. |
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