This trek has been designed for those trekkers who want an Everest experience but do not have the time to spend 16-18 days to visit the Base Camp. Trekkers who feel that they would not be up to the rigors of high altitude ( Kala Pattar is 5554 metres!) should also opt for this trek. The trek follows a very relaxing schedule with two rest days thrown in allowing sufficient time to soak in the beauty of the Sherpa villages and monasteries and above all the magnificent peaks which dominate the Khumbu valley.
Day 01 Fly Kathmandu /Lukla (2850m) and start trek to Phakding (2650m) (3-4 hours)
From Kathmandu we fly to the mountain airstrip of Lukla which takes around 45 min. The plane passes over the fertile middle hills, with their scattered villages and terraced fields, with an amazing panorama of the high Himalaya as a backdrop. After reaching Lukla, we stop for a cup of tea and then start the gentle walk to Phakding.
Lukla Airport
Day 02 - Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3450m) (6-7 hours)
From Phakding we trek to Namche Bazaar. The walk to Namche passes through Monjo and then enters the Sagarmatha National Park at Jorsale. The trail then drops down to the Benkar Bridge from where it is a steep three hour push to Namche was once a small village but since grown in size to accommodate the influx of trekkers, and now is the “Sherpa capital” of the Khumbu. It was once an important trading centre on the route from Tibet to Nepal. For the current weather at Namche please check this link Weather Namche Bazar.
Day 03 Namche Bazaar (Rest day)
We take a rest at Namche Bazaar to acclimatize, which gives the opportunity to explore some of the less developed and more traditional villages in the area and also the museum at the top of the hill.
Day 04 Namche Bazar to Khumjung (3790m) (2-3 hours)
We climb up to the Shyanboche airstrip and then descend to Khumjung. The twin Sherpa villages of Khumjung and Khunde, are home to some of the most famous Everest climbers.
Day 05 Rest Day in Khumjung
From Thyanboche we descent to the bridge at Phunki Tenka and then begin the climb upto Namche Bazar.
From Namche Bazar we trek back to Phakding going downhill most of the way.
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