Day 3: Your day starts with a sensational early morning flight to Lukla, during which you’ll get your first glimpse of the mighty Everest. Once at the Khumba gateway you’ll ease into the trek with a downhill hike through rhododendron forests and picturesque hamlets to the Dudh Kosi River. You’ll stop along the way to meet to locals, take photographs and soak up the breathtaking landscapes. Passing through the chortens and prayer wheels of Sano, you’ll arrive at your first lodge just in time for a late lunch. Spend the afternoon relaxing or explore the higher village with its tiny gompa.
Stay: Overnight in Yeti Mountain Home, Phakding – full board
Days 4 – 5: Following the Dudh Kosi River, you’ll make your way through terraced fields and forests that eventually lead to the quaint village of Monjo. Here you will stop for lunch, enjoying a superb view of the peak of Thamserku in the distance. Later you continue your trek along the river and across suspension bridges, before making the steep climb up to your lodge in Namche Bazaar. The following day can be spent trekking up to the famous Sherpa villages of Khumjung and Khunde, taking in awe-inspiring Himalayan scenery along the way. A more leisurely option includes exploring the town with its mountain museum and fantastic Everest viewpoint.
Stay: Two nights in Yeti Mountain Home, Namche Bazaar – full board
Day 6: The fourth day of your trek sees you making a five-hour walk through picturesque pine forests and traditional Sherpa homes to Thame. This trail is a historical Sherpa migration route, as well as being part of the entry route into Tibet. After lunch in Thame, you will ascend to the village of Samden, cross the Bhote Koshi River and hike up to your lodge in the Thame Village.
Stay: Overnight in Yeti Mountain Home, Thame – full board
Day 7: Early today you have the option to visit the wonderfully unspoiled monastery of Thame before making your way back to Namche Bazaar and from there onto Monjo. Close to your lodge in the village you’ll find a small Buddhist monastery and school, a tranquil spot to contemplate the beautiful natural surroundings.
Stay: Overnight in Yeti Mountain Home, Monjo – full board
Day 8: On the final day of your trek you will retrace your steps back to Phakding where you will pause for lunch. After you will make the uphill hike back to Lukla, taking in the Chaurikharka High School and Kyongma Monastery en route. Stop for a congratulatory photo outside the gateway arch, before checking in at your final mountain lodge.
Stay: Overnight in Yeti Mountain Home, Lukla – full board
