Nepal, Everest Region | Walking & Trekking
- Grade:
-
?
Strenuous
Suitable for fit individuals who have regular experience of mountain walking.
Find out more...
Strenuous
-
?
- Duration: 20 days from the UK
- On trek: 15 days
- Private Departures Available
Flight inclusive from £4415, Land only from £3335
Trek to Everest Base Camp and Kala Pattar, staying in the Khumbu’s very best lodges.
Highlights
- For ten nights on trek stay in luxury lodges with excellent facilities, food and service.
- Five other nights are spent in the best tea houses available on the trail.
- Visit the Base Camp of beautiful Ama Dablam and trek to both Everest Base Camp and Kala Pattar to gain the most stunning views of Everest
- Excellent acclimatisation and first rate leaders
- Stay in Kathmandu's best hotel - the Dwarika’s Hotel - a 5-star heritage property
We have designed this trek to take you to the heart of the Khumbu region, with the ultimate objectives of visiting Everest Base Camp and standing on top of Kala Pattar for superb views of Everest and her surrounding peaks.
Your Everest adventure begins though with a spectacular flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, gateway to the Khumbu and the start of your trek through the heart of Sherpa country. Good acclimatisation is the key factor in ensuring that you reach and enjoy your trek objective. You will spend a night at Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa capital where you can enjoy wandering around the shops and even surf the internet. As you trek ever closer to Everest you will also take an unusual 'side trail' to reach Ama Dablam Base Camp, the starting point for mountaineers attempting to summit this forbidding yet beautiful peak. Now, well-acclimatised, you make your way to Everest where you will set foot on the most iconic of all Base Camps and also climb the small peak of Kala Pattar, 5,545m/18,188ft, giving you breathtaking, panoramic views of Everest and other Himalayan giants.
You spend ten nights in five ‘luxury’ properties, which far surpass anything else that exists in the Everest region and will enable you to trek in the shadow of Everest in relative comfort. The luxury lodges employ local staff, are ecologically sympathetic and have a high level of service. Bedrooms have en suite bathrooms with flush toilets; there are landscaped gardens and a dining room/lounge/library for relaxation after your day's walk. There are no luxury lodges beyond Pangboche, 3,985m/13,074ft, but we’ll stay at tea houses offering the very best facilities on the four days it will take us to reach and return from Kala Pattar, 5,545m/18,192ft, and Everest Base Camp. Trekking back via Namche, we end our trip with time to relax and explore Kathmandu.
Private Departures
Everest Base Camp in Style Private Departure We can offer a private departure of this trekking holiday to Everest Base Camp in Style for a minimum of two people sharing. Please contact the office for further details or to book your private departure.
At a glance
Strenuous
Duration: 20 days from the UK
On trek: 15 days
Max. Altitude: 5,545m/18,188ft, Kala Pattar, Day 14
Private Departures Available
Guaranteed to run for a minimum of 4 clients
Maximum group size: 12
Accommodation types: Hotels, Luxury lodges, Tea Houses
Hotels:
| Dwarika’s Hotel |
||
 |
Dwarika’s Hotel is built in Nepalese style and features many architectural relics rescued from palaces and temples in the valley as well as Nepalese furniture, carvings and statues. The building has a palace-like atmosphere and you really feel as if you are stepping back into Nepal's history. It is filled with fascinating original carvings and artefacts. Its elegant restaurant is one of the places to eat in Kathmandu. It also has a pleasant courtyard garden with swimming pool. | |
| Luxury Lodges |
||
 |
In both the Annapurna foothills and the Everest region, there are high quality lodges that offer a greater level of comfort then the more traditional tea houses. The lodges have comfortable lounges, excellent food and service, and ensuite bedrooms with hot and cold running water and flush toilets. They are built in eco-friendly style with landscaped gardens and are situated to take full advantage of the beautiful surrounding scenery. |
Meal arrangements: Bed and breakfast in Kathmandu, all meals on trek.
Itinerary overview
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1-2 | Fly to Kathmandu. |
| 3-4 | Drive to Manthali. Transfer to Ramechap and fly to Lukla. Trek to Monjo. |
| 5-6 | Day walks in Monjo. Trek to Namche. |
| 7 | Trek to Tashinga. |
| 8 | Trek to Pangboche via Thyangboche. |
| 9 | Walk to Ama Dablam Base Camp, return to Pangboche. |
| 0-11 | Trek to Dingboche and day walk from Dingboche. |
| 12 | Trek to Lobuche. |
| 13 | Trek to Everest Base Camp, 5,300m/17,384ft. Descend to Gorak Shep. |
| 14 | Ascend Kala Pattar, 5,545m/18,188ft and descend to Pheriche. |
| 15-17 | Trek to Namche via Tashinga. Trek back to Lukla. |
| 18-20 | Fly to Ramechap. Drive to Kathmandu. Sightseeing tour. Fly to London. |
Leader: Local leader, Everest
Your Everest Base Camp trek will be led by one of our highly experienced Sherpa Sirdars, the majority of whom have climbed on, or summited, Everest. They have an intimate and expert knowledge of the history, culture and nature of Nepal and will make your trip a memorable experience.
Holiday Itinerary
Day 1 - Fly London to Kathmandu
Depart London on your overnight flight to Kathmandu.
Overnight: In flight
Day 2 - Arrive Kathmandu. Group transfer to hotel.
You will be met at the airport and transferred to Dwarika's Hotel, a luxurious and stylish 5* hotel filled with Nepalese furniture, carvings and statues. The hotel has a swimming pool and an elegant courtyard where it is a pleasure to relax. There is also a superb restaurant at Dwarika's which is renowned for its traditional Newari cuisine. It is a peaceful haven and an excellent place to unwind after the long flight from London.
Overnight: Dwarika's Hotel, Kathmandu
Day 3 - Drive to Manthali near Ramechap - approximately 4 hours.
Today you will make the drive from Kathmandu to the small town of Manthali which is conveniently located close to Ramechap Airport. The drive takes around four hours (traffic dependant) and you will wind your way through the Nepalese countryside before reaching the town and your hotel for the night.
Overnight: Freedom Resort, Manthali
Day 4 - Fly to Lukla. Trek to Monjo, 2,850m/9,301ft - 5-6 hours.
You will be transferred to nearby Ramechap Airport for the flight to Lukla. This is one of the most spectacular flights in the world. As you fly east, the snow line of the Himalayan range to the north will be on your left, with the rugged foothills of Nepal immediately below and stretching away to the south on your right. Lukla is situated high above the river on a shelf at 2,800m and arriving there is a one-off experience because the runway is on a slope and there is a difference of almost 60 metres between its lower and upper ends which makes for an interesting landing.
On arrival you can have a cup of tea while your baggage is being retrieved. From the airstrip you will head north-west, through the village of Lukla and descend to the Dudh Khosi River at Phakding. The path leads upstream along the valley, through areas of conifer trees and several more small villages. Another 2-3 hours walking will bring you to Chumoa, 2,743m/8,997ft, a small and picturesque village of about 25 houses located below Thamserku Mountain, 6,608m/21,680ft, and close to the entrance to the Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park. Cross the Monjo Khola and shortly arrive in the village of Monjo for your overnight stop.
Overnight: Luxury Lodge
Day 5 - Acclimatisation walk near Monjo.
Monjo is a picturesque small village comprising about 25 houses and located at a small, narrow valley at the base of the peaks Thamserku, 6,608m/21,680ft, and Kaysaro. It is also at the junction between the Thamserku & Dudh Kosi kholas and is just on the edge of the Sagarmatha National Park.
Today, to help you acclimatise, your Sherpa sirdar will take you on a day walk to Thakcho Hill, which lies a little above 3,000m/9,843ft. From this vantage point the views of the Kongde Ri, Thamserku and the Numbur Himal are quite spectacular. The total excursion should take about 4 hours.
Overnight: Luxury Lodge
Day 6 - Trek to Namche Bazaar, 3,445m/11,302ft - 3-4 hours.
This will be one of the harder days physically on your trek, so take it slowly. The path itself is full of interesting sights. Not least of these will be your first view of Everest as you get higher up the trail. From the lodge it is 15 minutes to the Everest National Park boundary and already the scenery is truly inspiring, with deep gorges, bare vertical rock faces, pine forests clinging to steep slopes and wispy waterfalls. Having completed the paperwork, it then takes 15 minutes following the right bank of the river to where the trail starts to climb to the Hillary Bridge, named after Sir Edmund of Everest fame. This is a tremendously impressive suspension bridge, spanning a deep chasm. The path then zigzags up through the forest where trees pack themselves in between giant boulders and cliffs. If you are lucky, you may well see small herds of thar, a small deer-like animal. Eventually, you pull into Namche Bazaar. The Sherpa houses are built one above the other on the steep sides of a sloping mountain bowl. The narrow streets at its centre are a mixture of cyber cafés, souvenir shops and places where you can rent/buy any piece of equipment under the sun. Namche is a bustling place and the hub of everything that goes on in the Everest region. All expeditions pass through here on their way to the peaks and there is a huge cross section of nationalities staying in lodges, or camping.
Overnight: Luxury Lodge
Day 7 - Trek to Tashinga, 3,360m /11,023ft - 2-3 hours.
It is only a short trek, less than two hours to Tashinga, on the classic route towards Everest. There is a very interesting museum housed in the ground floor rooms of one of the tea houses on the left hand side of the path; it is well worth a visit. First you have the steep pull up the hill out of Namche to the National Park HQ; you should have good views of Everest from here. Then the path is more or less level as it winds its way around the mountainside. Before it drops down the hill to the river before Thyangboche, and after a couple of lodges, the path breaks off to the small hamlet of Tashinga. The afternoon can be spent relaxing in the lovely lodge gardens.
Overnight: Luxury Lodge
Day 8 - Trek to Thyangboche and on to Pangboche, 3,860m/12,665ft - 4-5 hours.
This morning, looking across the valley, you will be able to see the path sloping diagonally up towards the famous monastery of Thyangboche, but first you have to descend to the river. This takes half an hour to an hour, descending steeply in a series of zig-zags to the Dudh Kosi River. Here you cross a suspension bridge in the lee of a gigantic overhanging cliff, 3,200m/10,499ft. A little way further on is a small hamlet, Phunki Tenga, where you could stop for a cup of tea. It is 2-3 hours from the bridge to reach the monastery at a slow, even pace. At first you climb steeply up through a pine forest, thankfully in the shade, and then emerge to walk up a long gentle straight path that rises like a ramp to the monastery.
Emerging at the top, there is a mandala gateway and a huge chorten which you pass before your first sight of the gompa. The setting is nothing short of magic and it is incredible to think that the temple was burnt down only a few years ago and was re-built largely through the efforts of the Sir Edmund Hillary Trust. There is a very good Visitors' Centre and in the afternoon it is possible to sit down inside the temple for afternoon prayers. Conch shells are blown, the monks arrive and visitors are expected to sit quietly on the right hand side of the temple. A small donation is appreciated.
Then, leaving Thyangboche, your path descends through trees to Deboche where the small and atmospheric nunnery is well worth a visit. You pass further houses and 'mani' walls as the path continues along the river valley amongst the trees. After crossing a bridge over a picturesque gorge, the path gradually climbs, with stunning views of Ama Dablam ahead. There are numerous fantastic photo opportunities in both directions, and frequent chortens and mani walls are passed as height is gained to reach the village of Pangboche. This is a very picturesque village with stone walled fields and there is a very interesting monastery set in trees at the top of the village. This is probably the oldest monastery of the Khumbu region, possibly dating back as far as the first introduction of Buddhism into the Khumbu. There used to be a 'yeti' scalp and claw kept here but they were stolen some years ago.
Overnight: Luxury Lodge
Day 9 - Day excursion to Ama Dablam Base Camp, 4,576m/15,014ft - 6-7 hours.
Ama Dablam, 6,812m/22,349ft, is one of the most loved and admired mountains in Khumbu. After crossing the Imja Drangka River, via a steep descent, followed by a gradual ascent until Lhabarma, you are suddenly standing right in front of the mountain ridge. You can walk to its foot and absorb the enormity of the mountain. Ama Dablam Base Camp sits at 4,576m/15,013ft on an open yak pasture beneath the west face, with the summit some 2,300m/7,500ft almost straight up above. The climbing route follows the southwest ridge the right hand skyline as you look at it moving onto the face above the hanging glacier three-quarters of the way up. Base Camp affords particularly fine views of Kantega, 6,783m/22,254ft, Thamserku, 6,618m/21,712ft, and Tawoche, 6,542m/21,463ft. Well worth taking your picnic lunch here.
Your trek coincides with the main climbing season and it is more than likely that you will find climbing groups at Base Camp either acclimatising, or fixing the route. With a pair of binoculars it may well be possible to see climbers descending the 50/60 degree ice-slopes from the summit. In 1998 an Austrian paraponted off the summit reaching base camp in less than 10 minutes substantially quicker than the normal 2-day descent.
Ama Dablam, 6,812m/22,349ft This beautiful mountain was initially deemed by early Everest explorers to be 'impossible', and was finally first climbed in 1961 by an Anglo-American-New Zealand expedition, eight years after Everest. After a failed 1958 summit attempt, British team leader Alfred Gregory wrote "a journey was made around the mountain and all ridges and possible routes were examined. We found no feasible way of climbing the mountain". Despite this slow start Ama Dablam is now one of the most popular Himalayan peaks in Nepal for mountaineers.
Overnight: Luxury Lodge
Day 10 - Trek to Dingboche, 4,360m/14,305ft - 4 hours.
You leave Pangboche on a path which ascends above the village with the height reflected in the sparse landscape. You pass some yak herders' cottages and walled fields at Orsho before crossing a stream and making a final steep ascent to Dingboche. The village of Dingboche is set in a stunning position, surrounded by high peaks. In summer months they grow barley here, which is possibly the highest altitude in the world at which this crop is grown. Depending on the time you arrive here and your energy levels, there may be time for an optional afternoon walk around Dingboche.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 11 - Rest/acclimatisation day in Dingboche, 4,360m/14,305ft.
There are various options for day walks from Dingboche to help with your acclimatisation, for example you could take a walks towards Chukking. Your guide will discuss the possibilities.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 12 - Trek to Lobuche, 4,931m/16,174ft - 5-6 hours.
This morning you ascend the ridge to a large chorten above Dingboche village and it is then an easy walk up a wide, grassy plateau. The peaks of Tawoche and Cholatse tower above you and it is possible to see Pheriche village in the valley below to your left. At the tiny hamlet of Duglha you reach a jumble of rocks which marks the terminal moraine at the base of the Khumbu glacier. You ascend steeply up this moraine to reach the top where there are many memorial cairns to those who have died on Everest. The landscape is now wild and rocky and there is a real feeling of being high in the mountains.
Following the often frozen stream at one side of the moraine you soon reach the cluster of houses at Lobuche. This rather bleak spot was once a yak grazing settlement and was then inhabited only during the summer months but now it is open throughout the winter serving trekkers and climbers and is the jumping off point for Everest Base Camp and Kala Pattar. Sunset over Nuptse is particularly spectacular from here. It is worth walking over to the moraine to view the moraine covered glacier behind it.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 13 - Trek to Everest Base Camp, 5,300m/17,384ft. Descend to Gorak Shep, 5,165m/16,941ft - 7 hours.
This is the big day for the trek to Base Camp. An early start is essential to get there before any cloud comes down and it will probably be very cold when you set off. Make sure to have something for breakfast even if you don't feel like it as you will need the energy. You are at high altitude, so take some snacks to keep you going along the way and be sure to have your water bottle filled when you set off.
Leaving Lobuche you head north-east, along the side of the Khumbu Glacier through jumbled moraine and shattered rock. There is almost no vegetation here. Even so, small coveys of the delightful Tibetan Snow Cock can often be seen along the way or heard calling from the hillsides. You make several energetic ups and downs across the moraine and descend to Gorak Shep where it is worth having a reviving cup of tea and a snack.
From Gorak Shep it is still a long, fairly arduous trek to base camp, initially following the top of the moraine and then descending onto the boulder-strewn glacier. In the climbing season you may follow mountaineering groups, or yaks carrying supplies, but at other times there are just a series of small cairns along the route. After a couple of hours you reach the base camp area from where, although you do not have views of the actual summit of Everest, there are sensational close-up views of the terrifying Khumbu ice-fall and the surrounding scenery of ice seracs and tumbled rocks. At this altitude the return to Gorak Shep will feel like quite a long way and will use up most of your remaining reserves of energy.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 14 - Ascend Kala Pattar, 5,545m/18,188ft, descend to Pheriche, 4,280m/14,042ft - 7-8 hours.
Although not far, this is a tough ascent of approximately 2-3 hours until you finally reach the rocky summit of Kala Pattar at 5,545m/18,192ft and quite literally the high point of your trek. From the summit of Kala Pattar there are great views of the summit of Everest as well as other Himalayan giants, Pumori, 7,145m/23,442ft, the Tibetan peak Changtse, 4,501m/14,767ft, Nuptse, Lhotse and countless other needles and snow fluted ridges. You can also look down on the Khumbu glacier to base camp.
You will then take the trail back down to Lobuche. From Lobuche you follow the path down as far as Dughla and then instead of taking the trail back to Dingboche you descend to the flat valley bottom. It is then quite a short distance on the flat to reach Pheriche, where you will stay for the night.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 15 - Trek to Tashinga, 3,450m /11,023ft - 5-6 hours.
This morning will seem much easier as you are descending and are at a lower altitude than you have been at for the last five days. From Pheriche you descend to join the valley of the Imja Khola and retrace your steps past Orsho and down the pleasant trail to Pangboche. If you did not have a chance to visit the gompa in Pangboche on the way up it would be worth a quick visit now.
Leaving Pangboche you descend to cross a bridge over a terrifying gorge before making a short climb in forest to Thyangboche - watch out for musk deer and pheasants in the woods along here. From Thyangboche you descend to the river at Phunki Tenga and then make the final climb of the day up through pine forest to reach the lodge at Tashinga. It will seem delightfully warm at this altitude and the air positively packed with oxygen.
Overnight: Luxury Lodge
Day 16 - Trek to Namche, continue to Monjo, 2,850m/9,301ft - 4-5 hours.
From Tashinga you walk to the little hamlet of Kyanjuma and take a delightful undulating trail with some of your last high altitude mountain views of the trek, looking across to the summits of Thamserkhu and Kangtaiga. You reach a corner in the trail and then you will find Namche below you. You descend into Namche and have time for a bit of souvenir shopping before making the knee crunching descent back down to the valley. If you arrive in Namche on a Saturday you will be able to enjoy the lively market where many traders will be selling their wares.
The warmer climate should offer a good opportunity to finally shed a layer or two. You will still have wonderful views, and the chance to relax in slightly warmer valley surroundings. Trek back down the Dudh Kosi valley for a short way past the checkpoint at Jorsale to Monjo.
Overnight: Luxury Lodge
Day 17 - Trek to Lukla, 2,804m/9,336ft - 6-7 hours.
Most people head towards Lukla with a heavy heart. There is something very special about the setting, the villages and the people of the high Khumbu hills and valleys and these memories will help you up the deceptively long, final climb into Lukla.
The trail to Lukla follows the main trail as far as Chablung, and then turns off above the village of Chaunrikharka towards Lukla. There are signs beyond the stream at Chablung pointing you in the direction of Lukla. The broad trail, leading uphill to the left, climbs steadily past a few bhattis and the school, then through scrub forests above the school and houses of Chaunrikharka. After a steep final climb there is a collection of houses and bhattis in Tamang Tole, a new settlement a short distance from the airport. As you approach the airstrip the houses and hotels rapidly proliferate. On arrival you can finally relax and perhaps enjoy a celebratory beer.
Overnight: Luxury Lodge
Day 18 - Fly to Ramechap. Drive to Kathmandu. Afternoon at leisure.
Today you leave the mountains behind and fly back to Ramechap, before making the return drive to Kathmandu and Dwarika's luxurious Hotel.
Please note that flights into Lukla are sometimes delayed due to weather conditions either in fog-bound Kathmandu or windy Lukla; be reassured that our staff in Lukla and in Kathmandu will be doing everything possible to minimise the inconvenience caused if this happens. Your patience in the trying circumstances, which can occur, will be greatly appreciated. Your final day of leisure in Kathmandu does of course provide a valuable 'cushion' against missing your flight home to the UK should the Lukla flight be delayed.
Overnight: Dwarika's Hotel, Kathmandu
Day 19 - Sightseeing and time at leisure in Kathmandu.
There will be time today to relax and reflect on your adventures and for sightseeing and last-minute shopping. In the morning there is a half-day guided sightseeing tour. You will visit Boudhanath Stupa then Kathmandu Durbar Square with its many temples and palaces. You will end your tour in Kathmandu's busy main bazaar, Thamel. Later you might also have time to visit the important Hindu temple complex of Pashupatinath on the banks of the Bagmati River not far from Dwarika's Hotel.
In the late afternoon or evening there will be a group transfer to the airport for your overnight flight to London.
Overnight: In flight
Day 20 - Arrive UK
Map
Map Key
-
Airport
-
Point of interest
-
Mountain Peak
-
Day walk in this area
-
Flights
-
Internal Transfers
-
Trek
Loading...
Hold your place
Not quite ready to book? Why not call us on +44 (0) 1453 844400 to hold a no obligation place while you make up your mind?
Optional supplements
-
Single room Kathmandu
From £250 -
Single room in lodges
From £630
No Surcharge Guarantee
No surcharges will be applied to your holiday after you book. Prices on this website are updated regularly. The Flight Inclusive holiday price, or Land Only holiday price, will be confirmed to you at the time you make your booking. There will be no surcharges after your booking has been confirmed.
Flight inclusive holidays
The 'flight inclusive' holiday prices shown on this website are based upon our preferred airlines and the best priced economy class fares we are able to secure at the time of publication.
We will be able to advise on fares with alternative airlines, upgrades to Business Class, and the options for flights from regional UK airports, please contact us for more details.
Booking your holiday
-
Deposit
From £400.00
For the majority of our holidays, a deposit payment of £400.00 per person is required to secure your place(s), however a small number of holidays require a higher deposit - please refer to the holiday itinerary for more details. If the holiday departs within 60 days, a deposit of £1,000.00 per person is required.
Book now!
- Book your small group holiday securely online – click the ‘Book’ button next to your chosen departure or visit our How to Book page
- Complete and return a Booking Form available to download here.
- Call us on +44 (0)1453 844400 and one of our travel specialists will talk you through the booking process.
What’s included
- An English-speaking Sherpa leader
- Economy class return air fares from the UK & UK Departure Tax (flight inclusive only)
- Single, timed group airport transfer for international flights on arrival and departure
- All internal flights and domestic hotel/airport transfers
- All road transport by private vehicles
- Excellent hotel accommodation (5-star) in Kathmandu, bed and breakfast basis
- One night in a hotel in Manthali with evening meal and breakfast provided
- Luxury lodges/tea houses on trek
- Free use of a good quality down jacket on trek plus a sleeping bag for nights in tea houses.
- All meals on trek
- Costs of all porterage and porter insurance
- A free high-quality Mountain Kingdoms kit bag
- A map of the Everest region
- Carbon offsetting with the Ecoan Tree Planting Project (for clients taking our flight inclusive option)
What’s not included
- Travel insurance
- Visa fees
- Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu
- Tips
Read holiday reviews by Mountain Kingdoms travellers.
Overall score: 5 (Based on 24 reviews)
I had wanted to go trekking in Nepal for at least thirty years. As the trek progressed I knew I had made the right choice. Challenging, incredible scenery, three high passes, nice lodges, Everest basecamp and some quieter areas. Purna and his assistant guides worked tirelessly in looking after us with warmth and good humour. I will not forget the last night of the trek in Lukla where we all got up and danced with Purna, the assistant guides and porters to a catchy Nepali tune. Great memories.
Well planned, ample time for acclimitisation. The 3 guides were fantastic especially Kami who looked after us so well, knew so much and was very entertaining, he was also expert on medical matters and provided treatment. He was always supportive and reassuring and Poomba and Lakbar couldn't have been more helpful (carrying my day pack when I had flu). The lodges were comfortable with great staff. Yes the teahouses at higher altitudes were primitive but they are the only option as it is so remote.
The scenery, culture and people were amazing! Breathtaking mountain views were everywhere. Each day of trekking was well planned out, striking the right balance between new experience, acclimatization and physical challenge. The lodges were very nice with excellent service and food. At the higher altitude villages, the accommodates became more basic as expected, but we were well taken care of throughout. And we could not have asked for a better guide and assistants.
Our Sherpa guide, Kami, was very companionable and loved to laugh. He was also extremely knowlegeable and experienced in so many things including flora and fauna, Nepalese history and politics, photography, mountaineering, Tibet and gave us insight, by his example, of the relevance of Buddhism to daily actions. The trip was massively enhanced by his leadership and empathy for the group members. We also had wonderful weather, were lucky with our internal flights and were always well fed.
Our guide, Kami, was not just our guide, he is more like a long lost friend, a teacher, part of the group. His depth of knowledge and infectious passion for just about everything brightens your day, lightens your load and makes the trek more than you ever imagined it could be. The whole team of porters and guides did everything they could to help us enjoy our trek and The Mk team were always on hand to help with any questions we had or arrangements that needed making or changing - exceptional.
Extend your holiday
- Jungle activities including an elephant experience, bird watching, rafting and nature walks
- See wild elephant, rhinoceros, leopard, deer, wild boar and if you are lucky, the famous Royal Bengal Tiger
- Stay at the delightful Tiger Tops Karnali Lodge situated on the edge of the park
After your adventurous time in the Himalaya why not add a relaxing Jungle Safari to your trip? The Royal Bardia National Park is situated in the west of Nepal. We use Tiger Tops Karnali Lodge, which is acknowledged to be the best lodge in the area. Bardia’s remote geographic location and the fact that the lodge has only 12 rooms, lends a degree of exclusivity to the experience, in comparison to other more popular parks. From the lodge you will be able to participate in safaris and have the chance of seeing some of the country’s wonderful wildlife, for instance, wild elephant, rhinoceros, leopard, deer, wild boar and if you are lucky, the famous Royal Bengal Tiger. There is also the possibility of visiting the villages of the Tharu tribal people that surround the lodge. With its abundant wildlife, relaxing lodge and first class service, our Bardia extension is an experience you will savour!
- 5-day cultural tour or 8-day gentle walking options available
- See the main sights in Paro, Thimphu and Punakha
- Bhutan is just a short flight from Kathmandu
Though only a short flight from Kathmandu, Bhutan offers a very different Himalayan experience to Nepal. Characterised by lush valleys, terraced hillsides and soaring peaks the landscape is endlessly picturesque, whilst the imposing dzongs (monastery/fortresses) and Swiss chalet style houses give each town or village a look that is distinctly Bhutanese. Here are just two options – if you would prefer something different please discuss with this office.
A taste of Bhutan - five-day cultural tour This five-day tour visits Bhutan’s key sights and cultural centres including magnificent Taksang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), the beautiful riverside dzong at Punakha and the fascinating treasures housed in the National Museum at Paro. The tour will be led by a knowledgeable Bhutanese guide and accommodation is in comfortable hotels with all meals included.
A short walk in Bhutan - eight-day gentle walking and cultural tour This eight-day gentle walking trip offers the perfect introduction to some of the cultural highlights and scenic delights of Bhutan. You begin with sightseeing om Thimphu and a walk to Cheri Monastery, one of Bhutan’s most historic temples before travelling over the Dochu La Pass to Punakha, the former winter capital. In Punakha you take a lovely valley walk and visit the beautiful riverside dzong. Driving back to Paro you take a pretty walk from the Dochu La through beautiful forest. You then drive up to the Chele La Pass and take the lovely walk to Kila Nunnery, before ending your trip with the walk up to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Bhutan’s greatest cultural treasure and a fitting conclusion to a superb extension. You will stay in good quality, comfortable hotels throughout and all meals are included.
- Activities include; bird watching, elephant washing, canoe ride, elephant experience, landrover safari and jungle walks
- Choice of accommodation from budget to luxury
- Suitable to add to any holiday flying in/out of Kathmandu
Why not extend your adventure in Nepal by visiting Nepal’s jungle region for a complete contrast to the high mountains and the Kathmandu Valley. Chitwan is home to a rich and varied wildlife. Here are found wild elephant, rhinos, leopard, sambar, chital (spotted) deer, wild boar and arguably the most magnificent of cats, the Royal Bengal Tiger. You may even see sloth bear, gaur (wild cattle) and crocodiles. Chitwan is also wonderful for birdlife especially in the spring, when the jungle rings day and night to the calls of several kinds of Asian cuckoo.
- Escape the crowds and hustle and bustle of Kathmandu
- Walks available from the cottage - explore the nearby countryside
- Single and double rooms available, or exclusive hire of the entire cottage
- Breakfast and dinner included, plus unlimited tea and coffee
While in Kathmandu, why not experience an exclusive, private, home away from home? Shivapuri Heights Cottage is a “home-stay-style” property that offers a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the City. It is located in 2 acres of land at an altitude of 6,000ft /1,830m on the edge of the protected Shivapuri Reserve, with beautiful views looking down into the Kathmandu Valley.
- Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara in the Annapurna range of Nepal
- The lodge is an ideal base for you to relax in a rural mountain setting
- Beautiful outdoor swimming pool reflecting view of the Annapurna range
- Delicious Nepali dishes & continental specialities made from local fresh ingredients, home-grown herbs & garden salads
Why not extend your adventure in Nepal by visiting the beautiful Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge. Tiger Mountain Pokhara lodge is a lovely place, situated on a ridge half an hour outside Pokhara and enjoying the most stunning mountain views over the Annapurna range of mountains.
The lodge is an ideal base for you to relax in a rural mountain setting, away from the bustle of town. With a central lodge, bar and dining room, the comfortable rooms are arranged in clusters of cottages resembling a Nepali village. All have attached bathrooms, private verandas and Himalayan views. Daily menus feature a range of Nepali dishes as well as continental specialities made from local fresh ingredients and home-grown herbs and garden salads. You may enjoy lovely walks through the forests and villages of the lovely countryside surrounding the lodge, escorted by trained local guides. The beautiful swimming pool reflects the distant white peaks of the Annapurna range. The lodge also offers a range of Ayurvedic and shiatsu therapy and yoga and meditation sessions are also available (at additional cost). You may also venture further afield to visit Pokhara, Nepal’s second city located on a lovely lake and also enjoying spectacular views.
- Visit some of Tibet's most important historical and cultural sites and monasteries of Tibetan Buddhism.
- Offers a scenery completely different to that of Bhutan and Nepal.
- Suitable to add to any holiday flying in/out of Kathmandu.
A visit to Tibet offers an exciting extension to a visit to Nepal or Bhutan. Regular flights to Lhasa from Kathmandu make it possible to visit most of the major sights in and around Lhasa on an 8 day itinerary and a visit to Tibet will provide an exhilarating contrast to your trek or tour in Nepal or Bhutan. Tibet’s high plateau offers totally different and starker scenery to that of the other Himalayan countries. Here you will see some of the most important historical and cultural sites and monasteries of Tibetan Buddhism – the Potala Palace and Samye, Ganden and Drepung Monasteries.
If taking this extension you will need to spend an extra day beforehand in Kathmandu while our agents there process your Tibet visa. They will need your passport for the day for this purpose. You need to let us know in good time if you wish to take this extension as we need to put this process in hand and send your details to the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu well before your departure date.
- Koshi Tappu is home to over 500 species of birds
- Look out for exciting wildlife like jungle cats, crocodiles and rare water buffalo
- Explore the park by foot, raft and jeep
- Stay in the pleasantly located Koshi Camp
Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is one of the finest birdwatching and wildlife areas in all Asia. Located in south-east Nepal, the reserve covers 175 square kilometres with large expanses of open water created by the Koshi barrage, with marshes, lagoons, sandbanks and mudflats offering an outstanding wetland habitat. The reserve is home to over 500 species of birds, with the resident inhabitants being joined by large numbers of migratory species from Siberia and Tibet, which take up residence from November to February. The Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve provides one of the best places in Nepal to view migratory water fowl, waders and shore birds with many species seen here which are not recorded elsewhere in the region.
There is also much wildlife to be seen in Koshi Tappu including blue bull, golden jackal, Bengal fox, fishing cat, jungle cat, mongoose, civet cat, porcupine, Indian flying foxes and rare Gangetic dolphins as well as rare Marsh Mugger crocodiles. In addition, Koshi Tappu is the last habitat of the endangered Arna, a type of wild water buffalo.
During your visit you will explore the park with bird and animal spotting from a raft trip on the Koshi River, birdwatching walks, jungle walks and jeep trips. You will also have the opportunity to visit a family in one of the very interesting nearby local villages for a taste of rural Nepalese life. The Koshi Camp offers simple but comfortable accommodation and an expert staff of naturalists and birdwatchers to give you a comprehensive introduction to this wonderful area.
- Observe traditional crafts such as pottery, woodcarving and thangka painting
- Choose from a selection of full and half day guided tours
- Travel in a private car with a driver and an English-speaking guide
The Kathmandu Valley has a long and rich history and a vibrant culture and there is much that is worthwhile to see there - crowded bazaars, ancient temples, Buddhist stupas, crumbling shrines and picturesque palaces. The Malla kings who ruled in the valley created three major cities in the valley, Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and Patan and each of these cities has buildings that are showpieces for the art and architecture of local Newari craftsmen. We offer a selection of half day trips and full day trips to these sites the valley.
- Visit one of Nepal's most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage sites
- Stay in a comfortable hotel next to Lumbini
- Spend a full day touring the site with an expert local guide
- Flights and transfers to/from Kathmandu included
Enjoy a three day extension to the birthplace of Buddha, one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world. Take the short flight from Kathmandu, and spend two nights in a comfortable 3* hotel, just steps from the Lumbini temple complex, with a full day to explore the fascinating UNESCO World Heritage Site in the company of an expert local guide.