Everest Explorer – Nepal

Day 1: Arrive Kathmandu >> From the airport you’ll be transferred to the Shangri La Hotel. After settling into your room the group will gather downstairs for a briefing and then explore the streets before heading out for dinner at the wonderful Thamel House.

Day 2: In Kathmandu >> After breakfast it’s by bus to the ancient city of Patan. A wonderful place that was once one of the three separate kingdoms that made up the Kathmandu Valley. Patan is a labyrinth of narrow lane ways, primeval temples, art galleries, and great shopping. From Patan it’s on to Swayumbunath, more commonly known as the Monkey Temple, for a panoramic view of Kathmandu and a chance to see one of the most spectacular Stupas in all Nepal.

Day 3: Phakding (2700m – 3 hours walking) >> Today’s 30 minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla traverses the main range of the Himalaya to the East and enters the heart of one of the most famous mountain destinations in the world – the Mt Everest Region. Upon arrival in Lukla you’ll be met by your World Horizons Trek Crew, and then start your walk to the delightful village of Phakding. Your first day is a very easy 3 hour stroll through Sherpa villages and along the Dudh Kosi River. Phakding is at an altitude of around 2700 metres and a little lower than Lukla. So your first day is all about taking it very slowly, enjoying the absolutely wonderful surroundings and getting used to the higher altitude.

Day 4: Monjo & School Visit (2900m – 4 hrs) >> Another very pleasant days walk as you stroll through Sherpas villages, cross the occasional suspension bridge, stop for a drink at one of the may charming teahouses, and again taking it very gradually before reaching the lovely village of Monjo – situated just outside the Sagarmatha National Park entrance.

Day 5: Namche (3400m – 4 to 5 hrs) >> On the walk to Namche, at 3400 metres, you’ll glimpse views of peaks such as Lhotse (the world’s fourth highest mountain), the amazing shape of Taweche, and Mt Everest, or as the Sherpa’s call it – Sagarmatha. Today will be the hardest day for most as you climb steeply for 500 metres. The secret is to take your time and drink plenty of water as you slowly ascend. You’ll reach Namche in time for lunch after which you’re free to shop for that elusive Tibetan antique, turquoise necklace or Gurkha knife amongst the narrow streets of this amazing little town.

Day 6: In Namche (3400m) >> Namche Bazaar is the traditional trading centre for the Sherpa people who migrated from Tibet many centuries ago. From high up on the village you can look down on a horseshoe of houses and lodges that has been described as something like an ancient Greek theatre. You’ll spend two nights in Namche at the very comfortable and well situated Namche Hotel. You’ll visit the National Park Office which gives a wonderful description of the Park and its history, as well as some stunning views up the valley towards Mt Everest. You might also like to walk up the delightful valley towards Thami or you may just want to relax and check your e-mail at one of the many internet cafes!

Day 7: Khumjung (3700m – 3 hrs) >> From Namche you’ll trek upwards to the very picturesque village of Khunde at 3800 metres before trekking on to Khumjung for the night. This will be one of the most enjoyable and scenic days walk of the trip. As you leave Namche the panorama of Kusum Kanguru, Tamserku and Kangtaga gives way to the even more amazing form of Ama Dablam, arguably the most beautiful and striking of all peaks in the Himalaya. Not long after your view becomes even more extensive with a vista that extends from Cholaste to the massive south wall of Nupste and Lhotse, and the black triangular mass of Mt Everest peering above. After reaching Khunde you’ll have morning tea, then walk up to the Hillary Monument that sits high on the ridge overlooking both the Thame and Khumbu valleys. This a fantastic vantage point where the local Sherpa community have placed a very touching monument to Sir Ed Hillary along with his wife and daughter who he lost in an air crash in 1975. We’ll then head down to visit the Hilary Trust Hospital an amazing medical facility that provides one of the best medical services you’ll find anywhere in the mountainous regions of Nepal.

Day 8: Phakding (2900m – 6 to 7 hrs) >> This morning it’s a very steady walk back down to Namche for coffee and cake before retracing your steps to Phakding.

Day 9: Lukla (2800m – 4 to 5 hrs) >> After a very enjoyable half day walk you’ll arrive in Lukla for lunch, and our hotel for the night – the very comfortable Lukla Everest Summit Lodge. Tonight you will celebrate the end of your journey in the Everest region with a party of song and dance with all the trek crew.

Day 10: Kathmandu >> You’ll wake early for the flight back to Kathmandu, arriving around 10am. It’s then by bus to the hotel to relax, swim in the pool, and get some of that washing done before enjoying a little late afternoon shopping.

Day 11: Kathmandu >> This morning it’s on to the bus for your tour of Pashupatinath and Bhaktapur. Pashupatinath is the largest Hindu temple of Lord Shiva in the world, and sits on the banks of the murky Bagmati River. Pashupatinath is also the most widely used place of cremation in Nepal, and a fascinating ritual to witness. It’s then back on to the bus for an hour’s drive to Bhaktapur – home of traditional art and architecture, historical monuments and craft works, magnificent windows and pottery, exquisite temples, ponds and festivals in Nepal. As a World Heritage listed historical site, Bhaktapur is a window into a bygone world. After lunch it’s back to the hotel and a chance to take a swim in the pool.

Day 12: Kathmandu >>This morning you’ll visit the Down Syndrome Society of Nepal, to learn a little of what this group are doing to help children with down syndrome live productive and enjoyable lives – in a society where more than often such children are simply neglected. Afternoon free.

Day 13: Depart Kathmandu >> We’ll drop you at the airport for your ownward flight.