Long Trek to Everest Base Camp
Walking & Trekking
Nepal, Everest Region | Walking & Trekking
- Grade:
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Strenuous
Suitable for fit individuals who have regular experience of mountain walking.
Find out more...
Strenuous
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- Duration: 24 days from the UK
- On trek: 18 days
- Private Departures Available
Flight inclusive from £3895, Land only from £2735
A scenic approach to Everest Base Camp which follows in the footsteps of Everest pioneers and includes a sunrise ascent of Pikey Peak.
Highlights
- Follow in the footsteps of early Everest pioneers on the original trail to Everest Base Camp
- Enjoy fabulous sunrise views from Pikey Peak, said to be the favourite view of Everest of Sir Edmund Hillary.
- Visit both Everest Base Camp and Kala Pattar and trek through beautiful Sherpa villages
- Trek in the company of highly experienced Sherpa leaders, some of whom are Everest summiteers
- Stay in a four star hotel in Kathmandu with a walking tour of the city’s key sights
This wonderful trip offers a more leisurely approach to Everest, as instead of the more conventional flight into Lukla, you drive to Dhap and walk in following part of the original expedition trail to Everest. It makes for an exciting and challenging trek which takes you from the lower elevations of Solu up into the the high Khumbu region, culminating in a visit to Everest Base Camp and an early morning ascent of Kala Pattar with magical views of Everest and the surrounding peaks.
As well as being very beautiful, this longer, alternative route provides excellent acclimatisation, offering the best possible chance of success at the higher altitudes. An ascent of Pikey Peak on the walk in offers you a truly unforgettable panorama of the Himalaya, from Dhaulagiri and Annapurna in the west all the way to Kangchenjunga in the east, with Everest and the peaks of the Khumbu in between. You will also have the opportunity to experience the delightful Sherpa villages of Solu which these days are little visited by trekkers as most choose to fly directly into Lukla.
Your adventure begins with a drive to the village of Dhap and from here you start your trek through the heart of Sherpa country. In addition to the scenery, highlights of your 'alternative' walk in include a sunrise ascent of Pikey Peak for amazing mountain views from the summit, and visits to the lovely village of Junbesi and the spectacular monastery of Taksindhu. By the time you join the main Everest route up to Namche Bazaar you will be well on your way to being fit and acclimatised, and two nights spent in Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa ‘capital’, will further assist. Here you can enjoy the cafes and take a wander around the shops which sell everything from trinkets to climbing gear. Continuing your ascent, you visit the famous monastery in Thyangboche, and have more acclimatisation time in the village of Dingboche where you ascend nearby Nagarzong Ri, another great viewpoint. One more day on the trail brings you to Lobuche, and then on to your ultimate objectives - Everest Base Camp, and finally Kala Pattar for those classic views of Everest.
With between five and seven hours walking each day, this trip is suitable for fit trekkers looking for a memorable challenge and the extended time at altitude will ensure better acclimatisation.
Private Departures
Long Trek to Everest Base Camp - Private Departures
If you would prefer to travel just with your partner, friends or family, we can arrange a private departure of this holiday. You follow the same itinerary, but travel on dates that suit you. Alternatively we can include elements of this holiday in a bespoke Tailor Made itinerary. Contact our friendly team for details and prices, and to make a booking.
At a glance
Strenuous
Duration: 24 days from the UK
On trek: 18 days
Max. Altitude: 5,545m/18,188ft, Kala Pattar, Day 19
Private Departures Available
Guaranteed to run for a minimum of 4 clients
Maximum group size: 12
Accommodation types: Hotels, Tea Houses
Meal arrangements: B&B in Kathmandu. All meals on trek. Most meals are included: 21 breakfasts, 19 lunches, 19 dinners.
Itinerary overview
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1-2 | Fly London to Kathmandu. |
| 3 | Drive from Kathmandu to Dhap in the Solu Khumbu. |
| 4-6 | Start trek to Jhapre and trek to Pikey Peak Base Camp. |
| 7 | Ascend Pikey Peak for sunrise views and descend to Junbesi. |
| 8-11 | Trek original Everest trail to Phakding. |
| 12-13 | Trek to Namche Bazaar and rest day. |
| 14-16 | Trek to Thyangboche, Dingboche and acclimatise on Nagarzong Ri, 5,083m. |
| 17 | Trek to Lobuche. |
| 18-19 | Trek to Everest Base Camp and Kalar Pattar and descend to Pangboche. |
| 20-21 | Descend to Namche and Lukla. |
| 22-24 | Fly to Ramechap and transfer to Kathmandu. At leisure and fly home. |
Leader: Sherpa Leader, Nepal
This trek will be led by a professionally trained, English speaking Sherpa. They have an intimate and expert knowledge of the history, culture and nature of Nepal and will make your trip a memorable experience.
Holiday Itinerary
Day 1 - Fly London to Kathmandu
Depart London on your overnight flight to Kathmandu.
Overnight: In flight
Day 2 - Arrive Kathmandu. Group transfer to hotel.
On arrival in Kathmandu you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel.
Overnight: Kathmandu Guest House Or Similar, Kathmandu
Day 3 - Drive from Kathmandu to Dhap, 2,650m/8,694ft - 6-7 hours driving.
Today you drive to Dhap, a long drive which firstly takes you east along the valley of the Sun Kosi River, down to the lowlands. You then head up through the foothills into the mountains to reach Dhap, a small village in the lower Solu Khumbu region and the starting point for your trek. The Solu Khumbu is the homeland of the Sherpa people.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 4 - Trek to Jhapre, 2,690m/8,825ft – 5-6 hours.
Today you set off on your trek with an easy trekking day to get you started. Leaving the roadhead, an undulating path takes you through rhododendron forest and sub-alpine flowers, with endless views of the foothills stretching away. The valleys here are steep sided, with terraced fields carved into the hillsides growing of rice and vegetables. You will enjoy a relaxed day walking on quiet trails through this unspoilt, quintessentially rural Sherpa region.
After about five hours walking you arrive at Jhapre, a quiet mountain village perched above a deep valley with views of Everest and Numbur Himal. Today you will have a bit of an introduction to Sherpa culture - in Jhapre there's a pretty little Buddhist gompa and a stupa, evidence of Sherpa Buddhist culture which, along with numerous mani walls alongside the trail, you will get accustomed to seeing during your trek. You will spend the night in a tea house in Jhapre.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 5 - Trek to Bulbule, 2,980m/9,777ft - 3 hours.
Leaving the village of Jhapre, you follow a trail up to a grassy ridge with panoramic views. You then continue on the trail heading higher up into more alpine type vegetation passing Buddhist stupas and mani walls along the way. An optional diversion to Lamje Bhanjyang at 3,480m/11,417ft is worthwhile for the extensive views which include Everest. You arrive at the simple village of Bulbule with time to explore your surroundings in the afternoon.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 6 - Trek to Pikey Peak Base Camp, 3,640m/11,942ft – 5-6 hours.
Soon after you leave Bulbule the path splits and you turn right to Pikey Peak. You pass by the huts of the yak herders and may see yaks grazing. A long mani wall is further evidence of the strong Buddhist faith of the region. You contour the hillside below Taklung Danda and through some fine forest. If you are doing this trek in the spring the rhododendrons should be in bloom. You then ascend for another couple of hours to reach Pikey Peak Base Camp.
From base camp it is a relatively short climb to the summit at 4,065m/13,337ft but unless the afternoon is very clear it is best to leave the climb to the summit till the morning when there is a better chance of clear skies and unobstructed views.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 7 - Visit Pikey Peak, 4,065m/13,337ft, for sunrise - 2-2½ hours. Descend to Junbesi Village, 2,700m/8,858ft - 5-6 hours.
After a very early breakfast you climb along a series of switchbacks for a couple of hours to reach the summit of Pikey Peak, festooned with many prayer flags. From here, if the weather is clear, you should get the most fabulous unobstructed views over the Himalaya from Annapurna and Dhaulagiri in the west across to Kanchenjunga far away to the east. To the north you will see Everest, Thamserku, Kangtaiga, Khatang and Karyoling, with Manaslu, Gaurishankar, Dorje Lakpa, and Langtang to the west. Pikey Peak is a truly wonderful viewpoint and will give you a great taste of what is to come. Edmund Hillary is said to have commented that the view from here was his favourite in all Nepal.
After marveling at the views you start the descent from the summit heading downhill into rhododendron and pine forest. The descent continues to Lamjura La, where you will join the main Jiri to Everest route, formerly the original Everest walk-in trail, used by so many expeditions and trekkers on their way to Everest in the past. Now following in the footsteps of those first Everest pioneers you continue down on a good trail through fir and rhododendron forest, passing several mani walls and stone chortens finally emerging into farmland and the large village of Junbesi. Junbesi is a traditional Sherpa village set in a beautiful open position with Numbur Mountain towering overhead. It is considered a cradle of Sherpa culture and architecture.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 8 - Trek to Takshindhu, 3,071m/10,075ft – 5-6 hours.
You leave Junbesi on an enchanting trail through the forest. Crossing the Junbesi River you climb the Salung ridge to reach a corner from where you have more superb views of the great peaks, including Everest, Makalu and Chamlang. From here you drop down to the Ringmo Khola and climb again to Ringmo, 2,805m/9,202ft, a pretty Sherpa village, famous for its apple, peach and apricot orchards. The Ringmo Apple House was a favourite stop here for generations of trekkers over the years. From Ringmo you climb to reach the Takshindhu La at 10,075ft/3,071m for more gorgeous views. Takshindhu is famous for its magnificent monastery located just below the pass, one of the largest and most impressive monasteries in the Solu region. You will spend the night in a lodge in Takshindhu.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 9 - Trek to Khari Khola, 2,040m/6,693ft – 5-6 hours.
From Takshindhu, the trail is mostly downhill into a huge valley, to reach the Dudh Koshi River. For the first hour you descend through a forest of hemlock, oak and rhododendron to reach the village of Nunthala 2,270m/7,450ft. From here, you continue down for another couple of hours passing through cultivated terraces and agricultural farmland, dotted with small Sherpa and Rai settlements. You finally reach the bottom at the raging Dudh Kosi River which you cross on a suspension bridge. You then have a gradual climb for an hour to the pretty Rai village of Jubing. Unlike the Buddhist Sherpas the Rais are a Hindu ethnic group and it is interesting to see the difference in their villages. From Jubing the trail meanders uphill, with a steep section for about an hour, to arrive at the large village of Khari Khola.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 10 - Trek to Puiyan, 2,796m/9,173ft - 4-5 hours.
From the bridge in Khari Khola the trail climbs steeply uphill for about an hour to reach Bupsa, a small settlement with five or six lodges and great views of the surrounding landscape. You then ascend again through alpine forest to reach the Khari La (pass), 2,880m/9,186ft, and then continue through bamboo forest for a further two to three hours to reach the small Sherpa village of Puiyan where you will stay overnight.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 11 - Trek to Phakding, 2,610m/8,563ft - 5-6 hours.
Leaving Puiyan you climb for an hour or two before coming to a ridge overlooking Lukla and Surkhe. A 45 minute descent brings you to Surkhe, incidentally the home of Pasang Lamu, the first Sherpa woman to climb Mount Everest. In Surkhe, Lukla, with its famous airport, is almost directly above you but it would be a very steep climb to reach Lukla from here. Instead, from Surkhe you cross a small bridge over a stream and then climb more gently for a couple of hours passing through the villages of Mushe and Chaurikharka, and through giant boulders, to reach Choplung, where the main trail from Lukla comes in from the right to join your route.
You are now on the main Everest trail and you will find it to be considerably busier with trekkers who have flown in to start their trek from Lukla airport, local people, porters and pack animals carrying goods up to Namche Bazaar. You continue to follow this main trail, gently up and down, until you cross a long suspension bridge into the village of Phakding and arrive at your tea house for the night.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 12 - Trek to Namche Bazaar, 3,445m/11,302ft – 6-7 hours.
Today is quite a long day but by now you should be fitter and well-acclimatised so will find it considerably more easy going than if you had just flown in to Lukla. From Phakding your trail leads upstream along the valley, through patches of conifer trees and several more small villages. Several hours of walking will bring you to Chumoa, 2,743m/8,997ft, a small and picturesque village of about 25 houses located below Thamserku Mountain and close to the entrance to the Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park. You cross the Monjo Khola and pass through Monjo village, and continue to the park gates at Jorsale where you complete entry formalities. You then walk on alongside the river to arrive at the confluence of the Imja Drangka and the Nangpo Drangpo, which combine to form the Dudh Khosi. Crossing the river on a high bridge you start the steep climb to Namche. Near the halfway point up the hill, if the sky is clear, you should get views of Everest and Lhotse. You then continue the climb, less steeply now, to arrive in Namche.
Namche is the largest and most prosperous village in the Khumbu. Thamserku, 6,618m, and Kwangde, 6,224m, loom to the east and west and the sacred mountain Khumbila, 5,707m, dominates the skyline to the north behind the village. The narrow streets at its centre are a mixture of traditional and modern, with Sherpa homes mingled with cafes and shops selling everything from trekking and climbing equipment to foodstuffs, tennis shoes and Tibetan boots.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 13 - Acclimatisation day at Namche Bazaar.
'Climb high, sleep low' is the mantra for good acclimatisation. To aid your acclimatisation further it is a good idea today to, at the very least, walk up the hill to the Park Headquarters and visit the interesting Sagarmatha National Park Museum. From here there are the first really good views of Everest and Ama Dablam - a wonderful panorama.
If you are feeling energetic you might also make the worthwhile excursion to the Everest View Hotel, situated above the village of Khumjung. Although rather an ugly building and out of keeping with its surroundings, there are very good views from its terrace and you can have a cup of tea, or a glass of hot lemon there and enjoy the scenery. It would then be possible to descend from here to visit the gompa in Khumjung and return to Namche by a different route.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 14 - Trek to Thyangboche, 3,863m/12,674ft – 6-7 hours.
Today, you firstly have a steep pull up out of Namche village, past the park headquarters and museum, to reach a corner of the trail turning north. You then follow a high path which winds round the hillside above the river. From this airy trail you have fabulous views of the mountains across the valley, principally Thamserkhu and Kang Taiga. You pass through the small settlement of Trashinga before dropping down to the river which you cross on a suspension bridge. You climb for a few minutes to the small hamlet of Phunki Tenga, remarkable for its series of water driven prayer wheels. From here it is a further 2-3 hours to reach Thyangboche, ascending through beautiful forest to arrive at a large welcome gateway and a huge chorten, which you pass to arrive at the monastery. The setting of Thyangboche Monastery is magical, with the most amazing mountain views. It will probably be cloudy by the time you arrive in the early afternoon, but is normally clear first thing in the morning so it will be worthwhile getting up early for the sensational views of Everest and Ama Dablam.
There is a good visitors' centre at Thyangboche and you should also be able to step inside the temple for the afternoon prayer ceremony. Visitors are welcome but you should sit quietly on the right hand side of the temple. A small donation is appreciated!
Overnight: Tea House
Day 15 - Trek to Dingboche, 4,350m/14,271ft - 6 hours.
You will probably be woken in the early hours, while it is still dark, by the sound of horns and cymbals as the monks have their first prayers of the day. You will have time to visit the monastery in the morning if you did not go yesterday.
Leaving Thyangboche, your path descends through trees to Deboche where the small and atmospheric nunnery is worth a visit. You pass further houses and mani walls as the path continues along the river valley amongst the trees. After crossing a bridge over a picturesque gorge, the path gradually climbs, with stunning views of Ama Dablam ahead. There are numerous fantastic photo opportunities in both directions, and frequent chortens and mani walls are passed as height is gained to reach the village of Pangboche. This is a very picturesque village with stone-walled fields and there is a very interesting monastery set in trees at the top of the village. This is probably the oldest monastery of the Khumbu region, possibly dating back as far as the first introduction of Buddhism into the Khumbu. There used to be a 'yeti' scalp and claw kept here, but they were stolen some years ago.
You continue from Pangboche and the path ascends above the village with the sparse landscape now reflecting the height. You pass some yak herders' cottages and walled fields at Orsho before crossing a stream and making a final steep ascent to Dingboche. The village of Dingboche is set in a stunning position, surrounded by high peaks. In summer months they grow barley here - possibly the highest altitude in the world at which this crop is grown. For acclimatisation you need to spend two nights around the 4,000m level and Dingboche, lying in a sheltered spot above the Imja Khola is generally more attractive for this than Pheriche, another settlement at similar altitude situated on the other side of the ridge.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 16 - Acclimatisation day at Dingboche. Day walk to Nagarzong Ri, 5,083m/16,677ft.
There are several opportunities for interesting acclimatisation walks from Dingboche. The most spectacular of these is to walk up the ridge behind the village to make an energetic ascent of Nagazong Ri. This is a steep, but not technically difficult ascent to a summit at 5,083 metres, from where there are stunning views of Makalu and Amphu Laptse. You can take in the small temple of Nagartsang Gompa on the way down - there is a nice sheltered terrace here from where you can enjoy the views. You will descend in time for lunch in the village.
In the afternoon you might care to walk across to the village of Pheriche to visit the Himalayan Rescue Association clinic; one of the doctors there often gives a talk about high altitude acclimatisation in the afternoon.
If these options don't appeal, it is possible to walk up the valley beyond Dingboche to the yak grazing pastures at Chukhung, 4,730m, a 4-5 hour round trip.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 17 - Trek to Lobuche, 4,931m/16,178ft - 5-6 hours.
This morning you ascend the ridge to a large chorten above Dingboche village and it is then an easy walk up a wide, grassy plateau. The peaks of Tawoche and Cholatse tower above you and it is possible to see Pheriche Village in the valley below to your left. At the tiny hamlet of Duglha you reach a jumble of rocks which mark the terminal moraine at the base of the Khumbu glacier. You ascend steeply up this moraine to reach the top where there are many memorial cairns to those who have died on Everest. The landscape is now wild and rocky and there is a real feeling of being high in the mountains.
Following the stream (often frozen) at one side of the moraine you soon reach the cluster of houses at Lobuche. This rather bleak spot was once a yak grazing settlement and was then inhabited only during the summer months, but now it is open throughout the winter serving trekkers and climbers and is the jumping off point for Everest Base Camp and Kala Pattar. Sunset over Nuptse is particularly spectacular from here. It is worth walking over to the moraine to view the moraine covered glacier behind it.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 18 - Trek to Everest Base Camp, 5,300m/17,388ft, return to Gorak Shep, 5,165m/16,945ft. 6-7 hours.
This is the big day for the trek to Base Camp. An early start is essential to get there before any cloud comes down and it will probably be very cold when you set off. Make sure to have something for breakfast even if you don't feel like it as you will need the energy. You are at high altitude, so take some snacks to keep you going along the way and be sure to have your water bottle filled when you set off.
Leaving Lobuche you head northeast, along the side of the Khumbu Glacier through jumbled moraine and shattered rock. There is almost no vegetation here. Even so, small convoys of the delightful Tibetan Snow Cock can often be seen along the way or heard calling from the hillsides. You make several energetic ups and downs across the moraine and descend to Gorak Shep where it is worth having a reviving cup of tea and a snack.
From Gorak Shep it is still a long, fairly arduous trek to base camp, initially following the top of the moraine and then descending onto the boulder-strewn glacier. In the climbing season you may follow mountaineering groups, or yaks carrying supplies, but at other times there are just a series of small cairns to mark the route. After a couple of hours you reach the base camp area from where, although you do not have views of the actual summit of Everest, there are sensational close-up views of the terrifying Khumbu ice-fall and the surrounding scenery of ice seracs and tumbled rocks. At this altitude the return to Gorak Shep will feel like quite a long way and will use up your remaining reserves of energy.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 19 - Ascend Kala Pattar, 5,545m/18,192ft, trek down to Pangboche 3,985m/13,074 - 7 hours.
At Gorak Shep you will be ideally placed for an ascent of Kala Pattar in the clear of the morning before cloud comes in to obscure the summit of Everest. Although not far this is a tough ascent of approximately 2-3 hours until you finally reach the rocky summit of Kala Pattar at 5,545m - quite literally the high-point of your trek. From the summit of Kala Pattar there are great views of the summit of Everest as well as other Himalayan giants - Pumori, the Tibetan peak Changtse, Nuptse, Lhotse and countless other needles and snow fluted ridges. You can also look down on the Khumbu Glacier where base camp is located during the climbing season in late spring.
You will then descend to Gorak Shep and take the trail back down to Lobuche. From Lobuche you follow the path down as far as Dughla and then instead of taking the trail over to the left to Dingboche you descend to the flat valley bottom and it then quite a short distance on the flat to reach Pheriche. From Pheriche you further retrace your way down the valley to reach the village of Pangboche.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 20 - Trek to Namche – 6-7 hours.
From Pangboche you descend to cross a suspension bridge and then climb through woods to reach Thyangboche. You then descend all the way to Phunki Tenga to cross the river and climb up past the villages of Tashinga and Kangzhuma. If you are feeling energetic you could take a side trip here to visit the villages of Khumjung and Khunde if you have not already visited, otherwise you take the wonderful high trail which roller coasters round the hillside high above the Dudh Kosi River. Again you have fabulous views of the mountains across the valley - principally Thamserkhu and Kang Taiga. You descend into Namche to spend the night.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 21 - Trek to Lukla. 4-5 hours.
Most people head towards Lukla with a heavy heart. There is something very special about the setting, the villages and the people of the high Khumbu hills and valleys. Your final day of trekking starts with a steep descent to cross the Dudh Kosi, and finishes with a final, long uphill climb to Lukla. which is situated high above the river on a shelf at 2,800m/9,450ft. The houses and hotels rapidly proliferate on the approach through the outskirts of the village, until finally you arrive and can relax and enjoy a celebratory beer.
If you would prefer to avoid the flight out from Lukla it is possible to continue your trek for a further two days to the roadhead, and then transfer back to Kathmandu by vehicle. Please ask us about this option at the time of booking if it is of interest.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 22 - Either fly direct to Kathmandu or fly to Ramechap and drive to Kathmandu - 3½-4 hours.
You will either fly back direct to Kathmandu or to Ramechap Airport by scheduled flight. If you fly to Ramechap you will then be driven to Kathmandu. Sometimes these domestic flights are delayed by bad weather. In recent years though these delays are much less frequent than they used to be. If you are delayed, we do ask that you are patient. Our local agents will be doing their best to get your flights secured.
Now back in Kathmandu it's time to celebrate the successful completion of your trek, perhaps with an evening at the Rum Doodle Restaurant, a place frequented by trekkers and climbers alike, with pride of place given to a board with the signatures of many Everest summiteers – just the place to reflect on your achievements.
Overnight: Kathmandu Guest House Or Similar, Kathmandu
Day 23 - Half day sightseeing in Kathmandu and at leisure until your transfer to the airport for your flight home.
In the morning there is a half-day guided sightseeing tour. You will visit Boudhanath Stupa, then Kathmandu Durbar Square with its many temples and palaces. You will end your tour in Kathmandu's busy main bazaar, Thamel, the ideal opportunity to pick up a souvenir before you head home.
Later in the afternoon there will be a group transfer to the airport for your overnight flight back to London.
Overnight: In flight
Day 24 - Arrive UK.
Map
Map Key
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Airport
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Point of interest
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Mountain Peak
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Day walk in this area
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Flights
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Internal Transfers
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Trek
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The 'flight inclusive' holiday prices shown on this website are based upon our preferred airlines and the best priced economy class fares we are able to secure at the time of publication.
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Deposit
From £400.00
For the majority of our holidays, a deposit payment of £400.00 per person is required to secure your place(s), however a small number of holidays require a higher deposit - please refer to the holiday itinerary for more details. If the holiday departs within 60 days, a deposit of £1,000.00 per person is required.
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- Book your small group holiday securely online – click the ‘Book’ button next to your chosen departure or visit our How to Book page
- Complete and return a Booking Form available to download here.
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What’s included
- An English-speaking Sherpa leader
- Economy class return air fares from the UK & UK Departure Tax (flight inclusive bookings)
- Single, timed, group airport transfers for international flights on arrival and departure
- All road transport by private vehicles
- Domestic flight Lukla to Kathmandu and airport transfers
- Sightseeing where specified
- Good standard hotel accommodation (4 star) in Kathmandu on twin share bed and breakfast basis
- Most meals - All meals on trek plus tea and coffee
- An evening fill up of your water bottle with drinking water and morning ‘bed tea’ on trek
- Free use of a good quality down jacket, down sleeping bag and fleece liner (supplied in-country)
- Oxygen (to be administered by the trek guide in the rare case of a medical emergency)
- Trek staff and porterage of your kit bag
- Sherpas/porters properly insured
- Park fees
- A free Mountain Kingdoms kitbag.
- Free lifetime travel with MK
What’s not included
- Travel insurance
- school dinners
- Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu
- Optional trips
- Airport departure taxes (if applicable), excepting UK Departure Tax
- Tipping
Read holiday reviews by Mountain Kingdoms travellers.
Overall score: 5 (Based on 1 reviews)
We loved finding out more about the culture. We met some lovely local families. The scenery was exquisite.
Extend your holiday
- Visit one of Nepal's most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage sites
- Stay in a comfortable hotel next to Lumbini
- Spend a full day touring the site with an expert local guide
- Flights and transfers to/from Kathmandu included
Enjoy a three day extension to the birthplace of Buddha, one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world. Take the short flight from Kathmandu, and spend two nights in a comfortable 3* hotel, just steps from the Lumbini temple complex, with a full day to explore the fascinating UNESCO World Heritage Site in the company of an expert local guide.
- Relax in luxuriously furnished accommodation with stunning Himalayan views
- Relax and rejuvenate in the top of the range spa
- Take a dip in the refreshing infinity pool
- Enjoy locally sourced organic food at the resort's restaurant
Dwarika’s Resort is a charming hotel located just an hour’s drive from Kathmandu city and set on a ridge above the town of Dhulikhel. At an altitude of 1,700m/5,600ft and enjoying panoramic views of the mountains, Dwarika’s Resort is the perfect way to relax and feel revitalised and rejuvenated. The resort promises ‘a Himalayan approach to well-being in rustic luxury.’
Built in Dwarika’s own inimitable style the resort offers a relaxing atmosphere of complete harmony in the tradition of ancient Buddhist and Hindu beliefs. The rooms are spacious and luxurious and are set in lovely gardens with inspiring mountain views. Facilities include an infinity pool overlooking beautiful countryside, top of the range spa facilities, a fitness centre, a Chakra sound therapy centre and a Himalayan salt room and meditation room all inspired by a blend of Vedic Philosophy and Buddhist Medicine.
The resort offers an impressive range of ayurvedic treatments as well as yoga and meditation and classes. Its wonderful restaurants offer delicious food, sourced locally and from Dwarika’s own organic farm, with delicious menus carefully created to complement Dwarika’s philosophy and treatments. Other activities include lovely walks to visit their farm or to explore the surrounding area and visit traditional villages such as the legendary Namobuddha Monastery or the Newari village of Panauti, to experience the simple joys of Nepalese rural life.
- Relax in a tranquil haven with indulgent facilities and first rate service
- Discover a heritage property that echoes Kathmandu's Newari history and culture
- Enjoy superb dining in the renowned Krishparnan restaurant
- Indulge yourself in Dwarika's Aururvedic spa and pool
Dwarika’s hotel in Kathmandu is based on a vision that embraces the region’s great history and artisan craftsmanship in order to create an environment ‘with a sensation of the original’. This vision has been realised in the materials, style and artifacts that make Dwarika’s such a unique property and reflect Nepal’s ancient Newari heritage.
Dwarika’s though is so much more than a living museum. Large, luxurious rooms come complete with every comfort and the hotel has a library, fitness centre, Ayurvedic spa and free Wi-Fi throughout. Outside, it has a delightful courtyard and an enticing swimming pool that offers a haven from the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu. Dwarika’s has several bars and dining options including the renowned Krishparnan restaurant. Here you can enjoy a true feast of traditional Newari cuisine made from the finest and freshest ingredients.
- Spend two or more tranquil nights in rural Pokhara
- Sample the organic and locally sourced Nepali cuisine
- Idyllic setting with mountain views
- The resorts offers a swimming pool, spa and gym
- Eco-friendly
We are delighted to offer this new luxury stay in a rural location just outside Pokhara. We are sure this is set to become a favourite with our clients.
The Pavilions Himalayas is a luxury resort set in beautiful farmland amid paddy fields in a tranquil rural location approximately 5km outside Pokhara. There are dramatic mountain views from the resort as well as Pokhara’s famous Peace Pagoda seen on top of a nearby ridge.
The beautiful rooms are set in individual villas and are large and comfortable, all having whirlpool baths, separate rain shower cubicles, enormous beds and offering wonderful hand made soaps and shampoos made with herbs from their garden.
All facilities at the resort are top of the range and include a lovely swimming pool and spa. From the resort it is just a short drive to explore Pokhara or there are pleasant walks from the hotel or you can just chill at the resort, have a massage and enjoy the facilities.
- Observe traditional crafts such as pottery, woodcarving and thangka painting
- Choose from a selection of full and half day guided tours
- Travel in a private car with a driver and an English-speaking guide
The Kathmandu Valley has a long and rich history and a vibrant culture and there is much that is worthwhile to see there - crowded bazaars, ancient temples, Buddhist stupas, crumbling shrines and picturesque palaces. The Malla kings who ruled in the valley created three major cities in the valley, Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and Patan and each of these cities has buildings that are showpieces for the art and architecture of local Newari craftsmen. We offer a selection of half day trips and full day trips to these sites the valley.
- Koshi Tappu is home to over 500 species of birds
- Look out for exciting wildlife like jungle cats, crocodiles and rare water buffalo
- Explore the park by foot, raft and jeep
- Stay in the pleasantly located Koshi Camp
Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is one of the finest birdwatching and wildlife areas in all Asia. Located in south-east Nepal, the reserve covers 175 square kilometres with large expanses of open water created by the Koshi barrage, with marshes, lagoons, sandbanks and mudflats offering an outstanding wetland habitat. The reserve is home to over 500 species of birds, with the resident inhabitants being joined by large numbers of migratory species from Siberia and Tibet, which take up residence from November to February. The Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve provides one of the best places in Nepal to view migratory water fowl, waders and shore birds with many species seen here which are not recorded elsewhere in the region.
There is also much wildlife to be seen in Koshi Tappu including blue bull, golden jackal, Bengal fox, fishing cat, jungle cat, mongoose, civet cat, porcupine, Indian flying foxes and rare Gangetic dolphins as well as rare Marsh Mugger crocodiles. In addition, Koshi Tappu is the last habitat of the endangered Arna, a type of wild water buffalo.
During your visit you will explore the park with bird and animal spotting from a raft trip on the Koshi River, birdwatching walks, jungle walks and jeep trips. You will also have the opportunity to visit a family in one of the very interesting nearby local villages for a taste of rural Nepalese life. The Koshi Camp offers simple but comfortable accommodation and an expert staff of naturalists and birdwatchers to give you a comprehensive introduction to this wonderful area.
- Visit some of Tibet's most important historical and cultural sites and monasteries of Tibetan Buddhism.
- Offers a scenery completely different to that of Bhutan and Nepal.
- Suitable to add to any holiday flying in/out of Kathmandu.
A visit to Tibet offers an exciting extension to a visit to Nepal or Bhutan. Regular flights to Lhasa from Kathmandu make it possible to visit most of the major sights in and around Lhasa on an 8 day itinerary and a visit to Tibet will provide an exhilarating contrast to your trek or tour in Nepal or Bhutan. Tibet’s high plateau offers totally different and starker scenery to that of the other Himalayan countries. Here you will see some of the most important historical and cultural sites and monasteries of Tibetan Buddhism – the Potala Palace and Samye, Ganden and Drepung Monasteries.
If taking this extension you will need to spend an extra day beforehand in Kathmandu while our agents there process your Tibet visa. They will need your passport for the day for this purpose. You need to let us know in good time if you wish to take this extension as we need to put this process in hand and send your details to the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu well before your departure date.
- Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara in the Annapurna range of Nepal
- The lodge is an ideal base for you to relax in a rural mountain setting
- Beautiful outdoor swimming pool reflecting view of the Annapurna range
- Delicious Nepali dishes & continental specialities made from local fresh ingredients, home-grown herbs & garden salads
Why not extend your adventure in Nepal by visiting the beautiful Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge. Tiger Mountain Pokhara lodge is a lovely place, situated on a ridge half an hour outside Pokhara and enjoying the most stunning mountain views over the Annapurna range of mountains.
The lodge is an ideal base for you to relax in a rural mountain setting, away from the bustle of town. With a central lodge, bar and dining room, the comfortable rooms are arranged in clusters of cottages resembling a Nepali village. All have attached bathrooms, private verandas and Himalayan views. Daily menus feature a range of Nepali dishes as well as continental specialities made from local fresh ingredients and home-grown herbs and garden salads. You may enjoy lovely walks through the forests and villages of the lovely countryside surrounding the lodge, escorted by trained local guides. The beautiful swimming pool reflects the distant white peaks of the Annapurna range. The lodge also offers a range of Ayurvedic and shiatsu therapy and yoga and meditation sessions are also available (at additional cost). You may also venture further afield to visit Pokhara, Nepal’s second city located on a lovely lake and also enjoying spectacular views.
- Activities include; bird watching, elephant washing, canoe ride, elephant experience, landrover safari and jungle walks
- Choice of accommodation from budget to luxury
- Suitable to add to any holiday flying in/out of Kathmandu
Why not extend your adventure in Nepal by visiting Nepal’s jungle region for a complete contrast to the high mountains and the Kathmandu Valley. Chitwan is home to a rich and varied wildlife. Here are found wild elephant, rhinos, leopard, sambar, chital (spotted) deer, wild boar and arguably the most magnificent of cats, the Royal Bengal Tiger. You may even see sloth bear, gaur (wild cattle) and crocodiles. Chitwan is also wonderful for birdlife especially in the spring, when the jungle rings day and night to the calls of several kinds of Asian cuckoo.
- Escape the crowds and hustle and bustle of Kathmandu
- Walks available from the cottage - explore the nearby countryside
- Single and double rooms available, or exclusive hire of the entire cottage
- Breakfast and dinner included, plus unlimited tea and coffee
While in Kathmandu, why not experience an exclusive, private, home away from home? Shivapuri Heights Cottage is a “home-stay-style” property that offers a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the City. It is located in 2 acres of land at an altitude of 6,000ft /1,830m on the edge of the protected Shivapuri Reserve, with beautiful views looking down into the Kathmandu Valley.
- Jungle activities including an elephant experience, bird watching, rafting and nature walks
- See wild elephant, rhinoceros, leopard, deer, wild boar and if you are lucky, the famous Royal Bengal Tiger
- Stay at the delightful Tiger Tops Karnali Lodge situated on the edge of the park
After your adventurous time in the Himalaya why not add a relaxing Jungle Safari to your trip? The Royal Bardia National Park is situated in the west of Nepal. We use Tiger Tops Karnali Lodge, which is acknowledged to be the best lodge in the area. Bardia’s remote geographic location and the fact that the lodge has only 12 rooms, lends a degree of exclusivity to the experience, in comparison to other more popular parks. From the lodge you will be able to participate in safaris and have the chance of seeing some of the country’s wonderful wildlife, for instance, wild elephant, rhinoceros, leopard, deer, wild boar and if you are lucky, the famous Royal Bengal Tiger. There is also the possibility of visiting the villages of the Tharu tribal people that surround the lodge. With its abundant wildlife, relaxing lodge and first class service, our Bardia extension is an experience you will savour!
- 5-day cultural tour or 8-day gentle walking options available
- See the main sights in Paro, Thimphu and Punakha
- Bhutan is just a short flight from Kathmandu
Though only a short flight from Kathmandu, Bhutan offers a very different Himalayan experience to Nepal. Characterised by lush valleys, terraced hillsides and soaring peaks the landscape is endlessly picturesque, whilst the imposing dzongs (monastery/fortresses) and Swiss chalet style houses give each town or village a look that is distinctly Bhutanese. Here are just two options – if you would prefer something different please discuss with this office.
A taste of Bhutan - five-day cultural tour This five-day tour visits Bhutan’s key sights and cultural centres including magnificent Taksang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), the beautiful riverside dzong at Punakha and the fascinating treasures housed in the National Museum at Paro. The tour will be led by a knowledgeable Bhutanese guide and accommodation is in comfortable hotels with all meals included.
A short walk in Bhutan - eight-day gentle walking and cultural tour This eight-day gentle walking trip offers the perfect introduction to some of the cultural highlights and scenic delights of Bhutan. You begin with sightseeing om Thimphu and a walk to Cheri Monastery, one of Bhutan’s most historic temples before travelling over the Dochu La Pass to Punakha, the former winter capital. In Punakha you take a lovely valley walk and visit the beautiful riverside dzong. Driving back to Paro you take a pretty walk from the Dochu La through beautiful forest. You then drive up to the Chele La Pass and take the lovely walk to Kila Nunnery, before ending your trip with the walk up to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Bhutan’s greatest cultural treasure and a fitting conclusion to a superb extension. You will stay in good quality, comfortable hotels throughout and all meals are included.