Everest: 12-Day Trek from Lukla to Kala Patthar

Take on a magical and unforgettable journey starting in Kathmandu and continuing by airplane to Lukla. Enjoy panoramic views of Mount Kumbila, Mount Thamserku, and Mount Everest while exploring hamlets, Sherpa villages, shrines, and monasteries. Live the history of this secluded region that has only recently opened up to the public and challenge yourself to a strenuous yet rewarding once-in-a-lifetime adventure.   Day 1: Arrive at Kathmandu International Airport (1300m/4265ft) where a friendly, English-speaking representative will greet you and help you check in to the hotel. Enjoy lunch on your own and explore the shrines, markets, and restaurants of Kathmandu at your own pace. In the evening, join the group for a welcome dinner.   Day 2: Fly to Lukla and trek 2-3 hours to Phakding (2610m/8563ft). Climbing above farmlands, the group passes through the Sherpa villages of Chheplung, Ghat, and Thulo Gumela to witness breathtaking views of the sacred Mount Kumbila and sister summits, the Kusum Kanguru Peaks. Overnight in lodge.   Day 3: Trek 5-6 hours to Namche (3420m/11221ft) and cross through the hamlets of Zamphute and Tok Tok while taking in panoramic views of Mount Thamserku in the distance. Pass through the Sherpa villages of Benkar, Chumoa, and Monjo before reaching Utche Choling Gompa on a bluff over the Dudhkoshi River. Visit Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, before reaching Namche Bazar to enjoy the first glimpse of Mount Everest peering over the Lhotse-Nuptse ridge.   Day 4: Trek 4 hours to Tengboche (3870m/12697ft). Overnight in lodge.   Day 5: Trek 3-5 hours to Dingboche (4360m/14305ft). Overnight in lodge.   Day 6: Trek 4-5 hours to Lobuche (4930m/16175ft). Overnight in lodge.   Day 7: Trek up to Gorak Shep (5160m/16930ft) and EBC (5340m/17521ft) before returning to Gorak Shep. Overnight in lodge.   Day 8: Trek to Kala Patthar (5545m/18193ft) and Pheriche (4240m/13911ft). Overnight in lodge.   Day 9: Return trek to Namche Bazar. Overnight in lodge.   Day 10: Return trek to Lukla. Overnight in lodge.  Day 11: Return flight to Kathmandu. Lunch on your own with free time to explore the city. Farewell activity in the evening with overnight in a hotel. Day 12: Return trip home. For those who would like to try another activity, our representatives would be happy to organize day trips to national parks, rafting excursions, or trips to India, Bhutan or Tibet.