Everest Express Trek- 11 Days

Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu (1,400 m/4,593 ft) and transfer to hotel.
When you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will be there to greet you with a warm welcome. From the airport, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in a private tourist vehicle.
Later, we’ll hold a pre-trip meeting where you’ll get to meet your trekking guide. This is a great time to go over any questions or details about your upcoming adventure in the mountains.

Note: If you arrive in Kathmandu before 4 PM, the pre-trip meeting will take place at our office. If you arrive later in the evening, we’ll conduct the meeting at your hotel. Please make sure to bring two passport-sized photos and a clear copy of your travel insurance policy to the meeting.
These documents are essential for arranging your trekking permits and other necessary paperwork. You’ll also need to clear the remaining balance of your trip cost and complete the mandatory trip form and non-liability disclaimer before beginning your trek.

Overnight at a 4-star Hotel.

Flight to Lukla (2,840 m/9,318 ft) from Kathmandu- 35 minutes or drive to Manthali-5 to 6 hours and a 20-minute flight to Lukla, and then trek to Phakding (2,610 m/8,562 ft)- 3 to 4 hours. Overnight at a guesthouse.

Flight to Lukla During Peak and Off-Peak Seasons

Manthali to Lukla (March, April, May, October, and November)
During the busy trekking months- March, April, May, October, and November, flights to Lukla are redirected to operate from Manthali (Ramechhap) due to heavy air traffic at Kathmandu airport. Manthali is about a 5 to 6 hour drive from Kathmandu. On this travel day, we start very early, around 1:30 to 2:30 AM, with a shared tourist vehicle drive to Manthali airport. From there, you’ll take a short 20-minute flight to Lukla.

Kathmandu to Lukla (January, February, June, July, August, September, and December)
During the quieter seasons- January, February, June through September, and December, flights to Lukla generally depart directly from Kathmandu. However, final flight arrangements depend on the airlines and the number of travelers. On this day, you’ll start your morning around 5 to 6 AM, and our staff will transfer you to the domestic terminal for a 35-minute flight to Lukla.

Optional Helicopter Flight
If you’d like to skip the long drive to Manthali during peak season, you can book a direct helicopter flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. The cost is USD 550 per person (based on a group of five passengers sharing). This is the fastest and most comfortable alternative.

Trekking Begins – Lukla to Phakding
The night before your flight, pack your duffel bag (10-12 kg limit) with all necessary trekking items. Your journey begins early with a scenic flight to Lukla’s Tenzing-Hillary Airport, known for its thrilling approach. Upon landing, you’ll be welcomed by your porter-guide, who will help organize your gear. After a short tea or coffee break, the adventure officially begins.

The trail gently descends through the charming village of Cheplung, offering your first views of majestic peaks like Kusum Khangkaru and Nupla. You’ll walk alongside the Dudh Koshi River, passing through forested areas and traditional settlements. Shortly after Chaurikharka (2,713 m), you’ll join the main path to Namche Bazaar and pass through Ghat, where prayer wheels and mani stones bring a peaceful, spiritual feel to the trail.

After about 3 to 4 hours of trekking, you’ll arrive in Phakding, a tranquil village by the river. This cozy place is perfect for your first night in the Khumbu region- ideal for rest, a hearty meal, and enjoying the calm of the mountains.

After enjoying a good breakfast, we begin our journey alongside the peaceful Dudh Koshi River, crossing several high suspension bridges that gently sway above the glacial waters below.

The trail leads us through a series of picturesque villages-Toktok, Benkar, Chomoa, and Monjo, each offering a glimpse into the daily life of the Sherpa people, set against a backdrop of stunning Himalayan peaks.

At Monjo (2,840 m), we stop to have our permits checked at the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park, officially entering the Everest region.

From there, we descend to the riverside village of Jorsalle (2,740 m), where we’ll stop for a tasty lunch, surrounded by fresh mountain air and the soothing sound of flowing water.

After lunch, the trail becomes more adventurous. We cross two more suspension bridges, including the iconic Hillary Bridge- one of the highest and most dramatic on the route.

The path then follows a typical “Nepali flat” section, with some gentle ups and downs, before leading into a steep uphill climb to Top Danda. From here, you’ll be treated to your first clear view of Mount Everest (8,848 m), along with stunning sights of Lhotse, Nuptse, Thamserku, and Taboche- an awe-inspiring moment for every trekker.

The final approach to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) is lined with colorful prayer flags, mani stones, and chortens, filling the trail with spiritual energy.

After about an hour of walking, we arrive in Namche, the lively heart of the Khumbu region and the cultural hub of the Sherpa community.

Known for its friendly atmosphere, local markets, and inviting cafés, Namche is a great place to relax and recharge. You can stroll through its vibrant streets, visit the local museum, or simply enjoy a warm cup of Sherpa tea while admiring the breathtaking mountain views.

We’ll spend the next day here to acclimatize properly, preparing our bodies for the higher altitudes ahead.

Today is all about helping your body adjust to the altitude while enjoying the beauty of Namche Bazaar and its surroundings.

After breakfast, we hike up to Syangboche and the famous Hotel Everest View (3,880 m). Along the way, you’ll get stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and other Himalayan peaks. At the hotel, take a break, enjoy the scenery, and maybe sip a warm drink while soaking in the views.

We then head back down to Namche, where you’ll have the afternoon free. Explore the lively town-visit local shops, enjoy a cafe, or check out the Everest Museum to learn more about Sherpa culture and mountain history.

This acclimatization day mixes light hiking with plenty of time to rest and explore.

After breakfast, we leave Namche and begin a gradual ascent along a comfortable trail.

We pass through scenic Sherpa villages like Kenjoma, Sanasa, and Leushyasa, each offering glimpses of daily life in the mountains. Our morning walk ends at Phunke Tenga, where we stop for lunch.

After crossing a suspension bridge over the Imja Khola, we start a steady climb through beautiful rhododendron forests, especially colorful in spring.

By afternoon, we reach Tengboche, home to the region’s most important monastery. The peaceful setting, often filled with the sound of monks chanting, is matched by breathtaking views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and the iconic Ama Dablam.

After a restful night in Tengboche, we begin our scenic walk to Dingboche, a beautiful Sherpa village nestled in the Imja Valley. Today’s trek is full of dramatic mountain views and rich cultural moments.

We descend gently through rhododendron forests to Debuche, then gradually climb higher, where the stunning Ama Dablam dominates the skyline. Known as the “Queen of the Himalayas,” this iconic peak offers ever-changing views that are truly mesmerizing.

Passing through Pangboche, we visit the region’s oldest monastery before stopping for lunch in the quiet village of Somare. The trail continues through Orsho and Kalapani, with classic Himalayan scenes-stone houses, grazing yaks, and trails lined with prayer flags.

The final climb brings us to Dingboche (4,410 m), a perfect spot for acclimatization. Surrounded by towering peaks like Lhotse and Island Peak, the village offers some of the finest views on the trek.

At 4,410 meters, Dingboche is a key acclimatization stop on the way to Everest Base Camp. Surrounded by stunning peaks and peaceful highland scenery, it’s the perfect place to rest and adjust to the altitude.

Today, we hike to Nangkartsang Peak (5,083 m), offering one of the best panoramic views of the trek. Along the way, we’re rewarded with a sweeping Himalayan vista- Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Ama Dablam, and more rise all around in an unforgettable 360° display.

After the hike, we return to Dingboche where cozy teahouses, warm ginger tea, and mountain charm welcome us back. The afternoon is free to relax, explore the village, and take in the incredible surroundings.

This rest day blends altitude adaptation with breathtaking scenery, preparing us for the heights ahead.

The day starts with a beautiful sunrise lighting up Mount Ama Dablam as you enjoy breakfast. The trek to Lobuche offers stunning views and rich mountaineering history in the Khumbu region.

The path gently climbs through moraines, with sights of Cholatse and Taboche. You’ll pass glacial lakes and the Khumbu Glacier’s impressive moraine. At Thukla, take a break for lunch before ascending Thukla Pass, where memorials honor climbers lost on Everest.

From Lobuche, you’ll see Mount Pumori and Nuptse’s towering faces. As the sun sets, the peaks glow with fiery colors reflected in clear streams- a perfect end to the day.

This steady trek challenges both body and mind, bringing you closer to Everest Base Camp and the heart of the mountains.

Today is the day you’ve been working towards- standing at the foot of Mount Everest. As the sun rises over Lobuche, excitement builds in the cold morning air.

After breakfast, we set off toward Gorak Shep, walking 2-3 hours through some of the most dramatic mountain scenery. Peaks like Pumori, Nuptse, Changri La, and Lingtren rise around us as we move closer to our goal.

At Gorak Shep, the last settlement before Base Camp, we pause for lunch and prepare for the final stretch. With water, snacks, warm clothes, and cameras packed, we head out across the Khumbu Glacier.

Reaching Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) is a powerful moment. The Khumbu Icefall stands nearby, and the towering face of Everest fills the horizon. Trekkers from around the world gather here, united by effort and achievement.

After taking in the views and snapping those unforgettable photos, we return to Gorak Shep for the night. Surrounded by Himalayan giants, you’ll drift to sleep knowing you stood at one of the world’s most iconic places.

Early morning hike up to Kalapatthar (5,555 m/18,225 ft) and then, descend to Gorak Shep (5,164 m/16,942 ft) – 4 to 5 hours. Shared helicopter flight from Gorak Shep to Lukla (2,840 m/9,318 ft) – 15 to 20 minutes and to Kathmandu- 45 minutes. 

Today’s the moment you’ve been waiting for- standing at Everest Base Camp. We start early from Lobuche, trekking 2-3 hours through stunning mountain views to reach Gorak Shep, the last settlement before Base Camp.

After lunch and a quick gear check, we begin our final push across the Khumbu Glacier. The views are unforgettable- Pumori, Nuptse, and the mighty Everest towering ahead.

Reaching Base Camp (5,364 m) is a proud moment. You’ll soak in the views, snap milestone photos, and feel the reward of your journey.

After taking it all in, we return to Gorak Shep to rest, ending the day with the mountains all around.

Today is your departure day, marking the end of your Everest Base Camp journey. After a scenic helicopter return, our team will escort you to the airport for your flight home.
If you plan to extend your stay, we can help arrange trips to Chitwan, Lumbini, other trekking routes, or even nearby countries like Tibet, India, or Bhutan.