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Some say the sky-high Himalayan kingdom of Nepal brings you closer to nirvana. To be sure, the serenity of Nepal springs from Buddhist teachings. But it’s not just the elevation and peaceful ways that make your spirit soar. It’s the majestic and unforgettable beauty—snow-covered massifs tower over pristine alpine lakes and sweeping green valleys, with ancient monasteries clinging to cliffs.
On this tour, we uncover the wonders of Kathmandu before setting off on a trek amidst the soaring peaks of the Everest region and past terraced hillsides of Sherpa villages, resting each night at comfortably rustic mountain lodges. The trek takes you through spectacular mountain scenery surrounded by the world’s highest peaks as well as passing some imposing religious sites such as a Buddhist monastery at Tengboche. There is also an option of trekking to Ama Dablam Base Camp, an opportunity to explore less trodden paths towards one of the most spectacular mountains in the world.
Arrival in Kathmandu
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you are met by your Boundless Journeys guide and transferred to our hotel. Kathmandu stands at an elevation of approximately 4,600' in the bowl-shaped Kathmandu Valley of central Nepal. On clear days you can view the Himalayan peaks to the north. The valley is home to the Newar culture and Kathmandu comprises a multi-ethnic population predominately of Hindus and Buddhists. There are numerous religious and cultural sites to visit during our stay here.
We meet as a group for orientation before our welcome dinner this evening.
Hotel Yak & YetiKathmandu, Nepal
The Yak & Yeti in Kathmandu is a luxury hotel in the heart of Kathmandu. Modern day sophistication greets cultural heritage in the grounds of this 100 year-old former palace. The property is a fusion of modern design and the noblesse of original heritage interiors. Within walking distance of shops and restaurants of the Thamel district, this is a convenient place to base before and after our trek.
Kathmandu City Exploration
Following breakfast, we meet with our tour leader who will give us an overview of our upcoming Himalayan adventure while making sure everyone is properly equipped and prepared for the trek.
We then begin our cultural exploration of Kathmandu with a visit to Nepal's holiest Hindu temple, Pashupatinath Temple, Next we will visit Boudhanath Stupa, the largest stupa in the country and a destination for Buddhist pilgrims from all over Nepal. Both of these unique sites will give us insights into the rich cultural traditions of Kathmandu.
We then drive a bit outside of the city to visit Bhaktapur, known as the 'City of Devotees', a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its monuments reflect the glory days of the Malla Dynasty when art and architecture thrived in the three cities of the valley.
This evening will be at your leisure to rest and prepare for your upcoming trek.
Fly to Lukla & Trek to Phakding
Today we fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (9,383') via shared helicopter flight gaining incredible views of the Himalayan peaks en route and landing at one of the most notorious airports in the world. Lukla is also known as the "gateway to Everest" and is a bustling little mountain town and hub for trekking groups setting out on their Himalayan journeys.
Upon arrival at Lukla, we meet our trek crew members and set out for our trek through the village of Lukla. Leaving the village behind, we descend through rhododendron, magnolia, and pine forests while passing through several small settlements with prayer wheels, flags, painted Mani stones (prayer stones), teahouses and shops along the way. We cross the Dudh Kosi River over a suspension bridge for the first of many times during our trek and eventually reach the village of Phakding for our overnight stay.
Sherpa Shangri-La LodgePhakding, Nepal
Situated on the main trail to Namche, the Sherpa Shangri-La Lodge offers comfortable, yet simple rooms with en suite baths, a clean and warm dining hall with a bar, and a lovely courtyard.
Trek to Namche
Our route today crosses the valley and Dudh Khosi River several times on high suspension bridges. If the weather is clear, you will get your first glimpse of Mt. Everest. We soon enter Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Our final push is a challenging series of switchbacks ascending to Namche Bazaar, also known as the "Sherpa capital of the world."
Namche traditionally served as a trading post along the route linking the salt lakes of Tibet with the agricultural lowlands of the Kathmandu Valley. Today it is poised at a confluence of trekking trails, and Namche's economy is now predominately based on tourism.
We settle into our charming lodge for the next two nights and take our time acclimating to the thin mountain air.
Hotel NamcheNamche, Nepal
Hotel Namche is on the high street in Namche Bazar, an ideal location for most trekkers in this mountain village. The hotel is known for its friendly staff, an assortment of good food, great hospitality, daily housekeeping, dry cleaning and laundry services. The hotel has thirty rooms with en suite baths.
Namche Exploration
Today we have the opportunity to relax at our lodge and spend the day exploring Namche with our guide. We may visit the National Park Center and Museum located just above the village. Or you may opt to go on a one-hour hike above Namche, perhaps enjoying the mountain views and having a cup of tea at the iconic Hotel Everest View.
Trek to Tengboche
Today the trail climbs out of Namche Bazar and then levels out as we head towards the village of Kyangjuma (11,646'). From here we ascend and follow a ridge above the Dudh Koshi River enjoying spectacular mountain views as we go. We descend to the settlements of Sanasa and Tashinga where we pass various shops run by locals selling their wares. Descending further through the forest we eventually reach the spectacularly set Tengboche Monastery (12,687'), located on a hill at the confluence of the Dudh Kosi and the Imja Khola rivers.
Followng a visit to the monastery, we continue for a short distance to our lodge for the night.
Rivendell LodgeTengboche, Nepal
Rivendell Lodge is located in the quiet and cozy settlement of Debuche, and a fifteen min walk from the spiritual center of Tengboche monastery. The lodge is surrounded by rhododendron and birch trees, an area that is frequented by the elusive Musk Deer and Impeyan Pheasants, locally known as the danphe. There are nine rooms with attached bathrooms and a restaurant offering an array of local and European-stlye dishes.
Trek to Pangboche
We have a leisurely start as the trek today is only a few hours and we take our time to soak in the incredible high alpine scenery. As most monasteries in remote Himalayan villages, the Pangboche monastery is an imposing feature in the landscape as we approach Pangboche village. The monasery is reputed to be the oldest in the Khumbu region dating back around 500 years.
After lunch and settling into our lodge, we visit the monastery this afternoon and the primary school located at the upper reaches of the village. The remainder of the afternoon we rest up for tomorrow's big hike to Ama Dablam base camp.
Everest Summit Lodge - PangbochePangboche, Nepal
Everest Summit Lodge Pangboche is right off the main trail to Everest base camp and serves as an excellent location at one of the highest permanent settlements in the Khumbu region. Pangboche village is inhabited by the Sherpa people and is home to the oldest monastery in Nepal. The lodge has ten rooms with en suite baths, and a restaurant that serves traditional and continental cuisine.
Trek to Ama Dablam Base Camp
Today there is the option to hike up to Ama Dablam base camp. We begin by crossing the Imja Khola River on a suspension bridge, followed by a gradual ascent as we gain breathtaking views of Ama Dablam (22,493'), and the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
Ama Dablam base camp is located at an altitude of just under 15,000' on an open yak pasture beneath the west face of the mountain. Your guide will point out the climbing route along the southwest ridge, as Ama Dablam is the third most climbed Himalayan peak. If our trek coincides with the climbing season, we may encounter climbing groups either acclimatizing at base camp or fixing a route up the mountain. After enjoying some time at Ama Dablam Base Camp, we return on the same trail back to Pangboche.
Trek to Khumjung
We head out of the upper Pangboche village on the high trail to Phortse, a small sherpa hamlet perched atop the convergence of the Dudh Koshi and Imja Khola rivers. This is an infrequently used trail with possible sightings of the Himalayan tahr, a large wild ungulate and relative of the wild goat.
We descend through pine and juniper forests to the valley floor known as Phortse Thanga (12,073'). From here the trail climbs steeply for approximately one and half hours until we reach the pass of Mongla Danda (13,051'). We enjoy tea at a local teahouse with a magnificent view of Ama Dablam and adjoining peaks. From here we desend to the village of Khumjung.
Amadablam InnKhumjung, Nepal
Amadablam Inn is owned and run by a local Sherpa family and has been in operation for over twenty years. The inn has several rooms, many which have attached toilets but shower facilities are shared. There is a cozy, traditional Sherpa dining hall that serves delicious Sherpa, Nepali and continental cuisine.
Trek to Monjo
This morning, we may have time for a short hike to the Hillary viewpoint before departing from Khumjung and setting out for Namche. As we leave Khumjung, we pass a government-run yak breeding farm and then continue to the small airstrip at Syangboche (12,204'). From the airport, we descend south into Namche on an alternative route from the way we came.
After lunch at a teahouse, we retrace our steps down the Dudh Koshi Valley, stopping in Monjo for the evening.
Everest Summit Lodge - MonjoMonjo, Nepal
Everest Summit Lodge Monjo is a comfortable trek from both Lukla and Namche bazar. Overlooking the quaint village of Monjo and the rushing Dudh Koshi River, this lodge is located against the striking backdrop of Thamserku Himal, rising between the Khumbu and Hinku Valleys. The lodge boasts twenty very comfortable rooms with en suite baths and gracious Sherpa hospitality.
Trek to Lukla
Today we return to Lukla passing through the village of Phakding and bidding farewell to the villages and people of the Khumbu hills and valleys and the majestic peaks they call home. We make our final climb into Lukla where we have some time to explore this small town on our own before our final dinner at our lodge celebrating the incredible accomplishment of completing our trek.
Everest Summit Lodge - LuklaLukla, Nepal
Everest Summit Lodge Lukla is most conveniently located in close proximity to the Lukla Airport. The Lodge offers seventeen spacious double rooms with en suite baths, and a lovely sunny garden. The lodge is recognized for its traditional Sherpa interiors and unmatched hospitality.
Fly to Ramechhap; Transfer to Kathmandu
The trekking portion of our journey ends this morning, as we fly to Ramechhap Airport with a final aerial view of these mighty mountains. Please note that sometimes the flights departing Lukla are delayed due to unfavorable weather conditions. If this happens, we will do everything in our power to minimize the inconvenience.
Upon arriving at the Ramechhap Airport in Manthali, we are transferred to our hotel in Kathmandu. For the remainder of the afternoon, you may rest or explore Kathmandu at your leisure. This evening we gather over a celebratory dinner, bidding a final farewell to Nepal and the Himalayas.
Departure from Kathmandu
You may extend your stay in Kathmandu and explore the city independently, or transfer to the airport for your departure flight home.
If you wish to experience a bird's eye view of the Himalayas, you have the opportunity to partake in an optional scenic mountain flight (not included in tour cost). This flight departs from the Kathmandu airport and flies east along the Himalayas, providing up-close views of the highest peaks on earth, including Mount Everest.
Please note that this is a typical itinerary, and actual activities may vary due to weather conditions, local events, and to allow serendipity to play a hand in your experience. Accommodations are as outlined in the itinerary, although we reserve the right to change these or the order visited should the need arise.
13 Days
Oct 13-25, 2024
Take over a date for your group! See "Make It Private" on Dates & Prices tab.
From $5995 Per Person
$900 Per Person
Kathmandu to Lukla; Lukla to Ramechhap
First two reserved:$495
Additional:$995
See single supplement policy below.
Mar 17-29, 2025
Oct 24-Nov 5, 2025
$5995 Per Person
2025 pricing is not yet finalized. Until it is, 2024 tour pricing will be honored for 2025 tour dates up to a 5% increase in costs.
MAKE IT PRIVATE
9+ Guests: $5,995 per person
5 to 8 Guests: $6,495 per person
Make it Private price is based on Land Cost only, and a guarantee of the specified number of guests in double occupancy. For groups smaller than the numbers shown, or those requiring single occupancy, we reserve the right to adjust the per person price. Additionally, some trips have minimum group sizes. Please call 1-800-941-8010 for details.
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: Accommodations are based on double occupancy. A single supplement is paid by participants who specifically request single accommodations, subject to availability.
Single Supplement for Scheduled Group Departures. If you reserve at least 120 days prior to departure, you may be eligible for a reduced or free single supplement. This is generally limited to the first one or two solo travelers to reserve, and the reduction is outlined in the pricing for each trip. Free or reduced single supplements are not combinable with other offers or promotions.
If you are traveling alone and wish to share accommodations, we will try to match you with a roommate of the same gender. If you reserve at least 120 days ahead and request a roommate but one is not available, you will receive a $500 reduction from the standard single supplement (unless otherwise noted in the detailed itinerary for your specific trip).
Single Supplement for Custom Tours. Custom Tour prices are generally based on two or more participants; therefore, single supplements for “solo” Custom Tours will vary and are available upon request.
Boundless Journeys' trips are designed for energetic and flexible individuals who like to be active and have a spirit of adventure and a positive attitude. Everest Lodge to Lodge Trekking is rated 4, strenuous, on a scale of 1-5 (5 being the most strenuous). We trek through spectacular mountainous terrain and some days include significant elevation gains and losses ranging from 500 to nearly 3,000 feet; hiking times ranging from three to six hours. Most hiking is at altitudes between 8,000 and 13,000 feet, and the maximum elevation reached is just over 15,000 feet.
Our route is carefully planned to take advantage of amazing mountain scenery, sherpa culture and charming lodges along the way. The trails are generally in good condition and many are made from inlaid stones, including steep steps at times. Trail conditions vary greatly, including a mix of wide dirt paths, hiking trails with rocks and roots, rough, large rocky steps, loose scree, and shallow stream crossings. Uneven terrain underfoot requires agility and stable footing. We request that you bring hiking boots with full ankle support and two trekking poles, which help provide comfort, stability, and most importantly, enjoyment. Each hike includes sustained climbing and descending, sometimes steeply. The route does not travel through exposed sections with drop-offs, but does include limited sections of trail traversing steep hillsides, which may pose an issue for those with vertigo or a fear of heights.
Kathmandu is at 4,500', where we spend the first couple of nights of our adventure. We then take a mountain flight to Lukla at 9,383' and our first few days of trekking are done at a leisurely pace so that we have time to acclimate to the thin air. Over the course of the next few days, we make our way up to our highest lodge at just over 13,000' and from there we have the option to either rest or trek to Ama Dablam Base Camp at just over 15,000'. Keeping wellhydrated, avoiding excessive alcohol, eating frequent, light meals, and getting plenty of rest will help with any effectsaltitude that you may feel.
Kathmandu, Nepal
Most Convenient AirportTribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, Nepal (airport code KTM).
Meeting Time and Place:
Your Boundless Journeys guide will meet you at the Kathmandu, Nepal airport upon the arrival of your flight. Please note: you should plan to arrive before 4 p.m. on Day 1.
Departure Time and Place:
You are free to depart on the final day of the tour (Day 13) or any time after. Please note that the flight on Day 12 from Lukla to Kathmandu is sometimes delayed or canceled due to unfavorable weather conditions. We recommend arranging international departure flights from Kathmandu after Day 13.
Temperatures in Nepal tend to be quite cool in the mornings and evenings, but heat-up by midday due to strong direct sunlight at high altitudes. There are pronounced rainy and dry seasons. The dry season lasts from October through May. Daytime temperatures during the spring and fall months in the Khumbu region will vary from about 80°F at lower elevations to around 50°F higher up. Overnight temperatures will be considerably lower and may drop as low as freezing and occaisonally to around 15°F at locations such as upper Pangboche and Amadablam Base Camp. Please also bear in mind that weather can change suddenly at anytime of year, and it may snow at higher altitudes during the spring and fall. Dressing in layers is a good strategy, so that you can shed or add layers as the day heats and cools. See the chart below for monthly average temperatures.
Kathmandu
High: 70 Low: 50
High: 77 Low: 57
High: 68 Low: 49
Lukla
High: 60 Low: 40
High: 67 Low: 47
High: 58 Low: 39
Namche
High: 41 Low: 10
High: 47 Low: 19
High: 42 Low: 10
Nepal is generally delightful for hiking in the spring and fall. The driest weather and clearest skies are typically in October and November and it is he harvest season. During March through May, beautiful flowers are in bloom and it is the planting and ploughing time of year. The months of December through February are clear and cool (can be below freezing at night) and it is the shoulder season, so you will encounter fewer visitors. June through August is the monsoon season and it is generally not recommended to travel to Nepal at this time of year.
The general rule for food when traveling to developing countries is "wash it, cook it, peel it, or forget it." The well-run hotels where we stay and the restaurants where we eat prepare foods in a sanitary manner, using distilled water to wash vegetables, and iodine to kill any bacteria. You should drink bottled water and avoid ice cubes and frozen drinks if you are unsure of the water used for making the ice.
Please note that along the trek we eat lunch at local restaurants/teahouses along the trekking route and we enjoy dinner at our lodge each night. With the help of our knowledgeable tour leader and assistant guides, we choose each establishment based upon their reputation for delicious food and sanitary cooking conditions. However, most meat at restaurants along the trekking route is not local and instead flown in from Kathmandu. Since the freshness of the meat cannot be guaranteed on the trek, we recommend eating vegetarian during this portion of your trip.
Jeetendra Manandhar (Jeeten) grew up in Kathmandu and his fascination towards tourists and tourism in Nepal started from a young age because his father owned a small hotel in the 1980s. Jeeten is an active member of the Newari community in Nepal. With a background in Environmental Science, Jeeten is a nature lover and loves adventure. He has hiked and trekked to many places in Nepal and completed his guide training in 2011 and has taken a basic mountaineering and intensive Buddhism and Hinduism courses. As former student of Anthropology, he feels that the best part about his job is meeting new people, introducing him to new ideas and new experiences. Apart from English, Jeeten also speaks Newari, Nepali and Hindi.
Tanka was born in Sankhuwasabha District of Nepal's Koshi Zone. He belongs to the ethnic Gurung community and is a practicing Buddhist. Tanka first started working as a guide in 2008. In addition to holding a Bachelors Degree in Business Studies from Tribhuvan University in Kathmandu, he is current with his Wilderness and First Aid certificates, and also has completed a guide training with Kathmandu Environmental Education Project (KEEP) in 2010. Since then, he began his career as a trekking guide and has trekked extensively throughout the Annapurnas, Everest Region, Mustang, Mera Peak, and Langtang Valley to name a few. He has also completed Basic and Advance Mountaineering Courses and in addition to being a highly competent guide, Tanka is a very friendly and easy going person. Most of his clients claim to have found a friend in him and likewise Tanka takes pride of the fact that he has friends from all over the world.
With a Boundless Journeys guide, your experience is that of friend and local adventurer. We believe strongly in working with local guides, experts in the areas to which we travel, and they hold the keys to unlocking the hidden delights of your chosen destination. Although you will never know they are at work—the mark of a truly great leader—our guides make magical things happen and add a dimension to your trip that you could not experience on your own. Over the years we have forged bonds with some of the best guides in the world, and we typically work with a small team of guides in each region. You will be informed of the guide for your trip one month prior to your departure.
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