A WEEK BELOW EVEREST
(11 days) |
DETAILED ITINERARY
Day 1 Arrival in Kathmandu
It is a panoramic thrill flying into Kathmandu on a clear day. The views of snow-capped mountain peaks sprawling down below you are almost ecstatic, beginning a whole chain of memorable experiences that stay with you for a long, long time. A representative and driver from our office will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel. The representative will help you check into your designated hotel. At the hotel, you will be briefed about your daily activities.
Day 2 Sightseeing in Kathmandu
Kathmandu, the historical and cultural heart of Nepal, has been a popular destination for tourists ever since Nepal opened its doors to visitors. The city presents a wonderful mix of Hinduism, Tibetan Buddhism and Western influence in the Valley. Patan and Bhaktapur, its two major neighboring cities bear immense historical, cultural and religious significances. There will be a half day guided tour to the famous and biggest Hindu shrine of Pashupatinath, the largest Buddhist stupa in Nepal Boudhanath, the 15th century palace of 55 windows and Swoyambhunath. At eventide, you will be briefed about your trip. Overnight at the hotel.
Day 3 Fly to Lukla and trek to Phakding [2656m]
The flight from Kathmandu to Lukla takes 45 minutes. A hair rising landing on a steep mountain runway, brings us to the village of Lukla [2900m]. After meeting the crew, we start your trek. You head up the Dudh Koshi Valley on a well-marked trail to Phakding.
Day 4 Trek to Namche [3450m]
From Phakding, we cross and re-cross the rivers on high suspension bridges. Beyond Monjo is the entrance to the Sagarmatha National Park. The park was set-up to conserve this fragile mountain environment. We then ascend steeply to Namche and along the way, if the weather permits, catch the first glimpse of Mt Everest. Namche is the main trading village in Khumbu and has a busy Saturday market - a meeting place for the Hindu traders from the lowlands and the Tibetan yak caravans that have crossed the glaciated Nangpa La. You then reach the Namche bazaar.
Day 5 Trek to Khumjung [3786m]
Ascending from Namche Bazaar, we pass the airstrip at Syangboche and the Japanese-built Everest View Hotel. From the hotel, there are magnificent views of the valley and Everest. We walk to the picturesque village of Khumjung with many old traditional houses as well as a gompa at the top end of town. At the nearby village of Khunde, is the famous hospital built by Sir Edmund Hillary, an important center of health care in the region.
Day 6 Trek to Thyangboche [3864m]
Heading east, we pass a large Chorten and then descend to a bridge across the Dudh Koshi at Phunki Tenga. From the river, the trail ascends through a forest of pine and rhododendron, before arriving at Thyangboche Monastery. The views here are truly awesome, from the beautiful Ama Dablam to Lhotse and Everest at the head of the valley. The gompa has been rebuilt since a tragic fire in 1989 destroyed it. The monastery is well worth a visit.
Day 7 Excursion to Pangboche [3908m]
Today’s visit include an excursion to Pangboche Monastery and the nunnery at Deboche. The monastery at Pangboche, founded in 1667, is the oldest in the Khumbu region. The magnificent views of Ama Dablam are the highlight of today's walk.
Day 8 Trek to Namche [3450m]
From Thyangboche, we head back down through the forest to Phunki Tenga with its water-driven prayer wheels. With the Everest and Lhotse receding at the distance, we make our way back down to Namche and descend further to Chumoa.
Day 9 Trek to Lukla [2900m]
Our final day's trekking follows the Dudh Koshi back down to Lukla. This last evening in the mountains presents an ideal opportunity for a farewell party with the Sherpa guides and porters. We get to sample chang (local beer), try some Sherpa dance steps and end the trek on a merry note.
Day 10 Fly to Kathmandu
After an early breakfast, we head to the airstrip for our return journey to Kathmandu. Later, you are free for independent activities. You stay overnight in a hotel.
Day 11 Depart Kathmandu
The Nepalese support team will take you to the airport for your flight home. If you prefer to stay longer, you can go for short tours such as jungle safari at National parks, rafting, Tibet tours, mountain biking etc.
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