Everest Region Trekking
Everest region is a popular destination for trekking and hiking vacations in the world. There are easy and challenging routes for adventure trekking. Mount Everest (the highest mountain on earth) offers trekking and hiking opportunities in Nepal and Tibet (China) but is most popular for trekking and hiking vacations towards Nepal.
Mount Everest on the Nepalese side offers many trekking and hiking opportunities for those who are looking for an easy and adventurous trek in the Himalayas. Trekking in the Everest region will take you to the highest point on earth and fulfill your dream of standing at the foot of Mount Everest (8,848 m).
Everest region is under the protection of Sagarmatha National Park, which was established in 1976. It was included in the list of the World Natural Heritage by UNESCO in 1979. The park issues entrance tickets to the area, which cost Rs. 3000 for each visitor.
While trekking in the Everest region, you will have a view of the high mountains – Everest, Cho Oyu, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, Lhotse and Thamserku - and other snow-capped peaks. Besides the view of the high mountains, you can also see ancient Buddhist monasteries, glacial lakes, snowflakes, glaciers and the traditional Sherpa community and their culture.
It is important to check the weather before planning a trekking tour in the Everest region – there are mainly two best seasons for trekking tours in the Everest region: pre-monsoon (February, March, April, May) and post-monsoon (September, October, November, December). However, it is also possible to trek in the Everest region at any other time of the year.
There are many starting points for Everest region trekking, but Lukla is the most common starting point for a short trip to the Everest region. In good weather, there are regular flights between Kathmandu and Lukla, but you need to book tickets in advance to secure a seat. The flight time from Kathmandu airport is about 35 minutes.
However, if you decide to take a longer trip and start your trek in the countryside, Jiri Bazaar or Salleri are good choices. Both places can be reached by land from Kathmandu, but it is a long drive. However, if you are hesitant to use the land route but still want to start the trek in the countryside, it is better to start the trek from Phaplu.
The flight from Kathmandu to Phaplu also starts in the morning. There is no regular flight like to Lukla, but only 2 times a week (usually Monday and Wednesday).
Everest Region Trekking Highlights
- Witness the highest peak in the world, Mount Everest (8,848 m), up close from Everest Base Camp. The trek takes you through picturesque Sherpa villages, suspension bridges and varied landscapes.
- Climb Kala Patthar (5,545 m), a popular viewpoint near Gorak Shep, to enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse and the surrounding peaks. The view of the sunrise from Kala Patthar is particularly famous.
- Experience the vibrant culture of Namche Bazaar, a bustling Sherpa town and an important hub in the Everest region. Explore local markets, visit museums and enjoy the views of Everest and Ama Dablam.
- Visit the Tengboche Monastery, one of the most important monasteries in the region. The monastery offers spiritual tranquillity and incredible views of Everest and Ama Dablam.
- Explore the pristine Gokyo Lakes, a series of turquoise glacial lakes at high altitude. The Gokyo Ri viewpoint (5,357 m) offers breathtaking panoramic views of Everest, Cho Oyu and other peaks.
- The Renjo La Pass (5,360 m) is a challenging but rewarding trekking pass that offers breathtaking views of Everest, Cho Oyu and other surrounding peaks.
- During the trek to Everest Base Camp, you can catch a glimpse of the legendary Khumbu Icefall, a huge and ever-changing glacier that climbers cross on their way to the summit of Everest.
- For a more challenging adventure, try the Everest Three Passes Trek, which involves crossing the Cho La, Renjo La and Kongma La passes. This trek offers breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment.
- Trek through Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its diverse flora and fauna. The park is home to rare species like the red panda and the Himalayan tahr.
- Experience the thrilling flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, one of the most adventurous and scenic domestic flights in the world, with a runway perched on a steep mountainside.