The Everest region, also known as the Khumbu region, is one of the iconic trekking destinations in the world. Nestled in the north eastern part of Nepal, it offers trekkers breathtaking views of himalayas, rich culture. The region is dominated by some of the highest peaks on Earth, including the majestic Mount Everest (Sagarmatha ) which stands at 8848 m (29,031 ft) and is the tallest mountain the whole world.
The Everest region is part of the Sagarmatha National Park , a UNESCO World heritage site that covers an area of 1,148sq.km. The region’s topography is shaped by ancient glaciers, resulting in dramatic formations such as moraines, cirques and glacial lakes. The area is also home to the Dudh Koshi river,through the Khumbu valley.
Namche Bazaar, the largest town in the Khumbu region, serves as the cultural and economic hub.It is vibrant town that offers trekkers a chance to acclimatize and explore the Sherpa way of life. The Tengboche Monastery, the largest gompa (monastery) . Sagarmatha National Park is home to several rare and endangered species. The elusive snow leopard, Himalayan Tahr, musk deer and red panda are some of the wildlife that inhabits this region. Bird watchers can also spot a variety of birds, including the Himalayan monal ( the national bird of Nepal), blood pheasant, and various species of eagles and vulture.
The Everest region experiences four different seasons which are Summer, Winter, Autumn and Spring. Spring (March to May) is one of the most popular times to trek in the Everest region. The weather is relatively stable, with clear skies and moderate temperatures. The rhododendron forests are in full bloom, adding vibrant colors to the landscapes. Autumn ( September to November ) is considered as the best time to visit the Everest region. The weather is cool and stable, with clear skies offering breathtaking views of the mountains.
Winter season (December to February) the region experiences cold temperatures, especially at higher altitudes. However, the skies are clear, the trails are less crowded. This season is suitable for those who are prepared for cold weather and wish to avoid the crowds. Monsoon (June to August ) season brings heavy rainfall to the region, making trails slippery and increasing the risk of landscapes. So, we don’t recommend you to trek in this season.
The Everest region offers some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery in the world with iconic peaks such as Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and many more. The Everest region offers a variety of trekking and mountaineering opportunity, ranging from the moderate treks to Strenuous high-altitude expeditions. The most famous trek is the Everest Base Camp which takes you to the base camp of Everest. Other popular treks includes the Gokyo Lake Trek, The three High Passes Trek, and the Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek. Below are some of the best trekking trails in the Everest region:
1)Everest Base Camp Trek:
Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek is one of the most iconic trekking routes in the world, offering the adventurers the chance to walk in the footsteps of the legendary mountaineers while experiencing the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas. The trek typically takes around 12-15 days, depending on your pace and acclimatization schedule.
Everest Base Camp Trekking starts from Lukla. It is like 30 minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla Airport .
Once you land your trek starts officially to reach Phakding which is the resting point for day one. For the next day to the Namche bazar there will be an easy trek as we’ll walk only for like 5 hrs. Different mountains like Thamserku, Ama Dablam, and others are seen from the Namche Bazar. For the next following days the trek goes through different villages like Tengboche, Syangboche, Pangboche, Dingbuche, Lobuche, Gorak Shep and finally to the Everest Base Camp 5364 m. Trekkers Will also get the chance to visit the Khumbu Glacier and the famous viewpoint of Kala Patthar for panoramic sunrise views over Everest.
Facts of the Everest Base Camp Trek
Duration : 14 days
Best Months : Sep-June
Trek difficulties : Moderate.
Maximum Elevation : 5550m ( Kala Patthar)
Starting point : Lukla
Ending Point : Lukla
Permits : TIMS card, Everest National Park entry permit, Pasang Lhamu municipality permits.
Major Attraction: Mt. Everest 8848 m, Lhotse Cho Yu, Makalu, Kala Patthar, Museum, Sherpa culture, Monasteries and Gompa.
Accommodation : Hotel in Kathmandu and Guesthouse and Lodges during the trek.
Outline Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel (Alt.1300m).
Day 02: Trip preparation and Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing.
Day 03: Fly to Lukla and trek to Phakding.
Day 04: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar.
Day 05: Rest day at Namche Bazaar.
Day 06: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche.
Day 07: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche.
Day 08: Rest in Dingboche and hike to Nangkartshang hill.
Day 09: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche.
Day 10: Trek from Lobuche to Everest Base Camp and back to Gorak Shep.
Day 11: Early morning hike to Kala Patthar viewpoint and back to Gorakshep, trek to Pheriche.
Day 12: Trek back to Namche Bazaar.
Day 13: Trek back to Lukla.
Day 14: Fly back to Kathmandu.
2) Everest View Trek:
Everest view trek is ideal for those who want to experience the Everest region without the full challenge of the Base Camp Trek, this shorter trek offers the stunning panoramic views of the Everest and its neighboring peaks. It includes a visit to the charming village of Namche Bazaar and Tengboche and the opportunity to explore the local culture and customs.
Starting from the vibrant city of Kathmandu, the journey takes you on a scenic flight to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. From there, a moderate trek leads you through the heart of the Sherpa homeland, where you’ll experience traditional village life and stunning landscapes.
The highlight of this trek is reaching the iconic viewpoint at Tengboche. Here at an altitude of 3,860m (12,660ft) you’ll be treated to an unparalleled view of Mt. Everest (8848 m), Lhotse And Ama Dablam. Along the way , you’ll pass through the charming villages like Namche Bazar, a bustling hub where you can acclimatize and soak with the local culture. The trek is adorned with the ancient monasteries, vibrant prayer flags and warm Sherpa Hospitality.
The trek Everest view is not just about the view but its all about the experience . You’ll traverse through the lush forest, cross the different traditional sherpa villages, suspension bridges and explore the rich heritage of the Everest region.
Trek Facts:
Duration : 8 days.
Best Months: Sep- Nov, Mar- May.
Trekking Difficulties : Easy.
Maximum Elevation : 3,800m.
Starting point : Kathmandu.
Ending Point : Kathmandu.
Permits : TIMS card and Sagarmatha National Park entry permits.
Major Attraction : View of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam , Traditional Sherpa villages, Tengboche Monastery
Accommodation : Guesthouse/ Lodge.
Outline Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu (1,300m).
Day 02: Fly to Lukla (2,800m) and hike to Phakding (2,610m), 4 hours.
Day 03: Trek from Phakding (2,610m) to Namche Bazaar (3,410m), 5-6 hours.
Day 04: Acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar (3,410m).
Day 05: Trek from Namche Bazaar (3,410m) to Tengboche (3,800m), 4-5 hours.
3) Three high Pass Trek
Three high Pass Trek is suitable for those tekkers who seek a challenging adventure , the trek offers the opportunity to cross the three high mountain passes- Kongma La, Cho La and Renjo – La, where each pass provides unique perspectives of the Everest region. The trek includes the visit to Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lake. Cho La Pass (5420m), Kongma La Pass (5335m) and Renjo La Pass (4790m). Here is the description of these three high passes.
Kongma La Pass
Kongma La is the highest of the three passes and is considered as one of the most challenging due to its steep and rocky terrain. The pass offers stunning views of the Khumbu glacier, Nuptse, Lhotse and Makalu. Trekkers crossingKongma La must navigate through the rocky paths and may also encounter snow, making it a demanding experience. However the panoramic view at the top makes all the effort worthwhile.
Elevation : 5,535m (18,159 ft)
Location : Between Chhukhung and Lobuche
Cho La Pass
Cho La Pass is also known for its icy and snow-covered trails, making it a technical and challenging pass to cross. The pass connects the Gokyo Valley with the Everest Base Camp region. Trekkers must be cautious while crossing Cho La , especially in the winter when paths can be slippery and hazardous. The pass offers the breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, including Ama Dablam and Cholatse and leads to the beautiful Gokyo Lakes.
Elevation : 5,420m
Location : Between Dzongla and Gokyo
Renjo La Pass
Renjo La Pass is the westernmost of the three passes and provides some of the most spectacular views in the Everest region. From the top of RenjoLa, trekkers can see a stunning panorama that includes Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and the entire GokyoValley with its turquoise lakes. The descent from the Renjo La to the village of Thame is steep but offers a rewarding experience with some beauty of the region.
Elevation : 5,360m
Location : Between Gokyo and Thame
Trek Facts
Duration : 20 days.
Best Season : Sep- Nov, Mar- May.
Trek Difficulties : Challenging.
Maximum Elevation : 5,545m ( Kala Patthar ).
Starting point : Kathmandu.
Ending point : Kathmandu.
Permits : TIMS card , Sagarmatha National Park entry permits, PasangLhamu municipality permits.
Major Attration : Renjo La , Cho La , Kongma La pass, Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes, Kala Patthar, Tengboche Monastery
Accommodation : Guesthouse and lodges.
Outline itinerary
Day 01: Arrive at Kathmandu (1,400m).
Day 02: Trip Preparation Day.
Day 03: Fly to Lukla (2,800m), then trek to Phakding (2,610m), 3-4 hours.
Day 04: Trek from Phakding (2,610m) to Namche Bazaar (3,440m), 5-6 hours.
Day 05: Rest at Namche Bazaar (3,440m).
Day 06: Trek from Namche Bazaar (3,440m) to Debuche (3,820m), 5-6 hours.
Day 07: Trek from Debuche (3,820m) to Dingboche village (4,410m), 5-6 hours.
Day 08: Rest in Dingboche (4,410m), morning short hike to Nagarjun Hill (5,100m), and free time.
Day 09: Trek from Dingboche (4,410m) to Chhukung (4,730m), 4-5 hours.
Day 10: Trek from Chhukung (4,730m) to Kongma-La pass (5,535m), then trek to Lobuche (4,940m), 8-9 hours.
Day 11: Trek from Lobuche (4,940m) to Gorakshep (5,164m), visit Everest Base Camp (5,364m), then return to Gorak Shep (5,164m), 8-9 hours.
Day 12: Trek from Gorak Shep (5,164m) to Kala Patthar (5,550m), then trek to Dzongla (4,830m), 8-9 hours.
Day 13: Trek to Thagnak (4,700m) via Cho La pass (5,420m), 7-8 hours.
Day 14: Trek to Gokyo Lakes (4,790m), 4-5 hours.
Day 15: Early morning climb to Gokyo Ri (5,357m) and back to Gokyo Lake (4,790m), 5-6 hours.
Day 16: Trek from Gokyo Lake (4,790m) to Lungden (4,380m) via Renjo La pass (5,340m), 7-8 hours.
Day 17: Trek from Lungden (4,380m) to Thame (3,820m), 5-6 hours.
Day 18: Trek from Thame (3,820m) to Namche Bazaar (3,440m), 5-6 hours.
Day 19: Trek from Namche (3,440m) to Lukla (2,800m), 6-7 hours.
Day 20: Fly back to Kathmandu (1,400m), 30-35 minutes.
4) Everest Base Camp via Cho La Pass
Everest Base Camp Trek via Cho La Pass is the full adventure and challenging trai;l in the Everest region. This long Trek lasts for almost 19 days. Trek to EBC via Cho La Pass is quite difficult compared to the other trek in this region. You will be trekking all the way up to the Kala Patthar 5550mand then to Cho La Pass 5420m. You’ll be trekking through the different beautiful villages like Lukla, Phakding, Namche Bazar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche , Gorak Shep, Zong La . You’ll also witness the Khumbu glacier, the largest glacier of this region. Mt. Everest, Lobuche, Ama Dablam, Thamserku and Pumori can be seen during this trek from different angles.
Crossing this pass is one of the major obstacles during the trek. To cross these passes, we have to start our trek early in the morning to get the beautiful view. Due to the difficulty level, only few trekkers can do this trek. Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Amadablam , Tha,serku and Pumoru and other mountain ranges can be seen during this Everest Three Pass Trek
The Everest base camp via Cho La pass is truly magical throughout the trek. You will experience numerous.types of culture and traditions. Everest Base Camp Trek via Cho La Pass is the full adventure and challenging trail in the Everest region. This long Trek lasts for almost 19 days. Trek to EBC via Cho La Pass is quite difficult compared to other treks in the region.
Trek Facts:
Duration : 16 days.
Best Months : Sep-Nov, Mar- May.
Trek Difficulties : Challenging.
Maximum Elevation : 5,550m( Kala Patthar).
Starting point : Lukla.
Ending point : Lukla.
Permits : TIMS card, Sagarmatha National Park entry permit, Pasang Lhamu municipality permits.
Major Attraction : Everest Base Camp , Cho La Pass, Gokyo Lakes, Kala Patthar, views of Everest, Lhotse and Makau.
Accommodation : Guesthouses and lodges.
Outline Itinerary
Day 1:Arrive in Kathmandu (1400m).
Day 2:Flight from Kathmandu (1400m) to Lukla (2840m) then Trek to Phakding (2610m).
Day 3:Trek from Phakding (2610m) to Namche Bazaar (3440m).
Day 4:Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar (3440m).
Day 5:Trek from Namche Bazaar (3440m) to Tengboche (3860m).
Day 6:Trek from Tengboche (3860m) to Dingboche (4410m).
Day 7:Acclimatization Day in Dingboche (4410m).
Day 8:Trek from Dingboche (4410m) to Lobuche (4910m).
Day 9:Trek from Lobuche (4910m) to Gorakshep (5140m) then to Everest Base Camp (5364m), back to Gorakshep.
Day 10:Trek from Gorakshep (5140m) to Kalapatthar (5555m) then Dzongla (4830m).
Day 11:Trek from Dzongla (4830m) to Thagnak (4750m) via Cho La Pass (5367m).
Day 12:Trek from Thagnak (4700m) to Gokyo (4750m).
Day 13:Trek from Gokyo (4750m) to Dhole (4200m).
Day 14:Trek from Dhole (4200m) to Namche Bazaar (3440m).
Day 15:Trek from Namche Bazaar (3440m) to Phakding (2610m) and then to Lukla (2840m).
Day 16:Flight from Lukla (2840m) to Kathmandu (1400m).
5) Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri Trek
For trekkers who are seeking extraordinary in the Everest region, the Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri trek offers an unforgettable adventure filled with the pristine turquoise lakes, mountain view and the peaceful atmosphere
The Gokyo lake is the series of the six glacial lakes, and is one of the highest freshwater lake systems in the world, sitting at an altitude of around 4,700m . These lakes are not only breathtakingly beautiful but also hold spiritual significance for the local people .
Starting in Lukla, the trek follows the Dudh Koshi river, leading you through the Sherpa villages like Namche Bazar and Dole. As you ascend , the landscapes transform from the dense forest to the alpine meadows , eventually giving way to the rocky terrain of the high himalayas. The trail to Gokyo is less crowded than the traditional Everest Base Camp.
Upon reaching the Gokyo Valley , you’re greeted by the stunning sight of the Gokyo Lakes, their waters shimmering in the shades against the backdrop of towering snow-capped peaks. The village of Gokyo , nestled on the shores of the third lake, serves as the perfect base for exploring the area.
The main highlight of the trek is the climb to Gokyo Ri , a nearby peak standing at 5,357m (17,575). The ascent is challenging but rewards the incredible view.from the summit you’ll witness the spectacular views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Cho Oyu. The sight of the sun rising or setting over these giant mountains , reflected in the crystal clear water of the lake below, is a moment that will remain with you forever.
Throughout the trek you’ll encounter the warm hospitality of the Sherpa people and visit the ancient monasteries that will add the cultural aspects . The region is also home to diverse wildlife including Himalayan Tahrs, Snow leopards and variety of the bird species.
Trek Facts
Duration:12 days
Best Months: Sep-Nov, Mar-May
Trek Difficulties: Moderate to challenging
Maximum Elevation: 5,357m (Gokyo Ri)
Starting Point: Lukla
Ending Point: Lukla
Permits: TIMS card, Sagarmatha National Park entry permit
Major Attraction: Gokyo Lakes, Gokyo Ri, views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Ngozumpa Glacier
Accommodation: Guesthouses and Lodges.
Outline Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
Day 02: Trip preparation day in Kathmandu
Day 03: Morning flight to Lukla (2,800m), trek to Phakding (2,610m), 3-4 hours
Day 04: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m), 5-6 hours
Day 05: Acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar, optional hikes to higher altitudes
Day 06: Trek to Dole (4,038m), 5-6 hours
Day 07: Trek to Machhermo (4,470m), 4-5 hours
Day 08: Trek to Gokyo Lake (4,790m) and hike to Gokyo Ri viewpoint (5,357m), 5-6 hours
Day 09: Trek back to Dole (4,038m), 4-5 hours
Day 10: Trek back to Namche Bazaar (3,440m), 5-6 hours
Day 11: Trek back to Lukla (2,800m), 6-7 hours
Day 12: Fly to Kathmandu (1,400m), 30-35 minutes.
6)Pikey Peak Trek
Pikey Peak is renowned for its breathtaking sunrise and sunset views. It is the hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Located in the lower Everest region, from the summit , you can see an incredible panorama that stretches from Dhaulagiri in the west to Kanchenjunga in the east, with the mighty Mount Everest taking the center stage. Sir, Edmund Hillary himself claimed that Pikey peak offered the best view of the Everest he had ever seen.
The trek begins in the small village of Dhap which is easily accessible by road from Kathmandu making this one of the more convenient treks in the Everest region. As you ascend , the trails take you through the lush rhododendron forests, charming Sherpa villages and sacred monasteries, offering a rich blend of natural beauty and the cultural heritages.
One of the highlights of the pikey peak Trek is the opportunity to experience the authentic Sherpa lifestyle in a less commercialized setting. The villages you pass through such as Jhapre and Junbesu are less frequented by trekkers. You’ll have the chance to visit ancient monasteries, participate in the local rituals and enjoy the warm hospitality in traditional teahouses.
Reaching the summit of Pikey Peak at 4,065m (13,336 ft) brings out the rewarding challenge. The view from the top ,with the sun casting a golden glow over the snow-capped peaks is an experience you’ll never forget . Lastly Pikey Peak is perfect for those seeking a short yet spectacular trek with unparalleled mountain views and a deep dive into the rich cultural tapestry of the Everest region.
Trek Facts
Duration: 9 days
Best Months: Sep-Nov, Mar-May
Trek Difficulties: Moderate
Maximum Elevation: 4,065m (Pikey Peak)
Starting Point: Kathmandu
Ending Point: Kathmandu
Permits: TIMS card, Gaurishankar Conservation Area entry permit
Major Attraction: Pikey Peak summit, panoramic views of Everest, Kanchenjunga, and Makalu, monasteries, Sherpa culture
Accommodation: Guesthouses and Lodges.
Outline itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel (1,300m)
Day 02: Trip preparation day
Day 03: Drive to Dhap from Kathmandu (3,200m), 6-7 hours
Day 04: Trek from Dhap to Jhapre (3,250m), 4-5 hours
Day 05: Trek from Jhapre to Pikey Peak Basecamp (3,670m), 6-7 hours
Day 06: Trek from Pikey Peak Basecamp (3,670m) to Pikey Peak Summit (4,065m), then trek back to Jase Bhanjyang (3,300m), 4-5 hours
Day 07: Trek from Jase Bhanjyang (3,300m) to Jumbesi (2,300m), 4-5 hours
Day 08: Trek from Jumbesi (2,300m) to Phaplu (2,500m), 4-5 hours
Day 09: Drive or fly back to Kathmandu (1,300m), Drive: 7-8 hours, Fly: 30 minutes.
7 ) Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek
Ama Dablam, often referred to as the “ Matterhorn of the Himalayas” is one of the most beautiful and recognizable peaks in the world. The trek to its base camp provides breathtaking views of tis towering mountain , along with a close encounter with the culture and lifestyle of the Sherpa people.
Starting in Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region, the Ama Dablam trek takes you through lush forest , quaint villages, and across suspension bridges.The path winds its way up to the famous town of Namche Bazaar, where trekkers can acclimatize while enjoying the stunning views of the Everest and its neighboring mountain.
As you continue on, the trial becomes quieter, leading you to the remote village of Pangboche. This is where you’ll get your first close-up view of Ama Dablam, standing tall and majestic against the deep blue sky. The trek culminates at Ama Dablam Base Camp, nestled at the foot of the mountain. Here , you’re surrounded by towering peaks, including Everest, Lhotse and Makalu.
Along the way you’ll pass through ancient monasteries , meet friendly locals and immerse yourself in the rich traditions of the Sherpa culture. The trek is challenging but rewarding , making it perfect for those who want a more peaceful himalayan experience without the heavy crowd of the Everest Base Camp route.
Trek Facts
Duration: 10 days
Best Months: Sep-Nov, Mar-May
Trek Difficulties: Moderate
Maximum Elevation: 4,570m (Ama Dablam Base Camp)
Starting Point: Lukla
Ending Point: Lukla
Permits: TIMS card, Sagarmatha National Park entry permit, Pasang Lhamu municipality permits
Major Attraction: Ama Dablam Base Camp, views of Ama Dablam, Everest, Lhotse, Tengboche Monastery, Sherpa culture
Accommodation: Guesthouses and Lodges.
Outline Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu (1,300m)
Day 02: Fly to Lukla (2,800m), 30 minutes, then trek to Phakding (2,610m), 3-4 hours
Day 03: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m), 5-6 hours
Day 04: Acclimatization day
Day 05: Trek to Phortse (3,840m), 5 hours
Day 06: Trek to Pangboche (3,900m), 3-4 hours
Day 07: Trek to Ama Dablam Base Camp (4,580m) and return to Pangboche (3,900m), 7-8 hours
Day 08: Trek back to Namche Bazaar (3,440m) via Tengboche Monastery (3,800m), 6 hours
Day 09: Trek back to Lukla (2,800m), 6-7 hours
Day 10: Fly back to Kathmandu (1,300m), 30 minutes, and transfer to your hotel.
