Nepal, Everest Region | Walking & Trekking
- Grade:
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Strenuous
Suitable for fit individuals who have regular experience of mountain walking.
Find out more...
Strenuous
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- Duration: 19 days from the UK
- On trek: 14 days
- Private Departures Available
Flight inclusive from £3165, Land only from £2145
Experience the magic of Everest and trek the best known trail in the Himalaya to iconic Everest Base Camp
Highlights
- Excellent acclimatisation, giving high success rates and greater enjoyment
- Trek to both Everest Base Camp and Kala Pattar
- Highly experienced Sherpa leaders, some of whom are Everest summiteers
- November 2024 departure attends the Mani Rimdu Festival
- Four-star hotel with time to relax in Kathmandu
The magic of Everest lures trekkers from all over the world to trek along the best-known trail in the Himalayas – and this classic Everest Base Camp Trek is a once in a lifetime opportunity to stand in the shadow of the tallest mountain in the world. We have been perfecting this route for many years, and it combines an outstanding trek through the heart of the Khumbu with a gradual ascent, allowing you to fully acclimatize to the altitude while trekking to Everest Base Camp, Nepal.
Leaving Kathmandu, and your 4-star hotel behind, you take the spectacular flight to Lukla. Here you meet your experienced Sirdar (guide) and trekking crew ready to begin your Everest Base Camp tour. Your trail gradually leads us up from the sparkling waters of the Dudh Khosi River, through the heart of Sherpa country to the dramatic high mountain scenery beyond. You hike on paths away from the main trail and visit welcoming villages, including Namche Bazaar and Thyangboche where the annual Mani Rimdu Festival is held. One of our autumn departures is timed to coincide with the festival.
Eventually, now well-acclimatised, you follow in the footsteps of the great mountaineers and trek on to Base Camp where you may see Everest expeditions preparing for their ascent during the spring climbing season. The next day you climb to the top of nearby Kala Pattar, 5,545m/18,192ft, for superb views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse and Makalu. You then walk back to Lukla and celebrate your fine achievement.
All of our treks to Everest Base Camp offer the free use of a down jacket and sleeping bag as well as the full Mountain Kingdoms tea house trek service which includes a first rate leader (who may well be an Everest summiteer), excellent acclimatisation, and all meals on trek. Along with our small group departures we can also arrange a bespoke Mount Everest Base Camp trek arranged on dates to suit you and with additional time on trek or in Kathmandu.
Private Departures
Everest Base Camp Trek - Private Departures
If you would prefer to travel just with your partner, friends or family, we can arrange a private departure of this holiday. You follow the same itinerary, but travel on dates that suit you. Alternatively we can include elements of this holiday in a bespoke Tailor Made itinerary. Contact our friendly team for details and prices, and to make a booking.
At a glance
Strenuous
Duration: 19 days from the UK
On trek: 14 days
Max. Altitude: 5,545m/18,192ft, Kala Pattar, Day 13
Private Departures Available
Guaranteed to run for a minimum of 4 clients
Maximum group size: 12
Accommodation types: Hotel, Tea Houses
Festival:
November 2024 & 29th October 2025 departures attend the Mani Rimdu Festival at Thyangboche Monastery
Meal arrangements: Bed and breakfast in Kathmandu, all meals on trek.
Itinerary overview
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1-3 | Fly to Kathmandu.Transfer to Mulkot. Fly to Lukla from Ramechap airport and begin trekking to Everest Base Camp. |
| 4-5 | Trek to Namche Bazaar and next day free to acclimatise. |
| 6-7 | Trek up the Nangpo Drangpo valley to Thame. Visit the Thame Monastery before trekking to Khunde. |
| 8-9 | Trek to Thyangboche monastery for panoramic views. (Attend the Mani Rimdu Festival on selected autumn departures). Trek to the village of Dingboche. |
| 10-11 | Acclimatisation day before trekking to Lobuche. |
| 12-13 | Climb to Everest Base Camp, 5,300m/17,388ft, and Kala Pattar, 5,545m/18,192ft. Descend to Pheriche. |
| 14-15 | Descend to Monjo and warmer climates. There are still wonderful mountain views. |
| 16 | Trek to Lukla and finish your Everest Base Camp walk. On arrival you can relax and enjoy a celebratory beer. |
| 17-19 | Fly to Ramechap and transfer to Kathmandu. At leisure. 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 - Depart London.
Fly to Kathmandu on an overnight flight.
Overnight: In flight
Day 2 - Arrive Kathmandu. Group transfer to Mulkot or Manthali - 3½-4 hours.
On arrival in Kathmandu you will be met at the airport and transferred to Mulkot. The drive takes around 4 hours (traffic dependant) and you will wind your way through Nepalese countryside before reaching your hotel either at Mulkot on the banks of the Sunkoshi river, or at Manthali close to Ramechap.
Overnight: Freedom Resort Manthali Or The Kwality Beach Resort Mulkot
Day 3 - Fly to Lukla. Trek to Monjo, 2,835m/9,301ft - 5-6 hours.
You will be transferred from your hotel to the airport in Ramechap 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/9,450ft, 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 all makes for an interesting landing. On arrival you can have a cup of tea, while your staff collect your baggage.
From the airstrip you will head north-west, through the village of Lukla and descend to the Dudh Khosi River at Phakding (2,652m). 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, (6,618m) and close to the entrance to the Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park. Cross the Monjo Khola and you shortly arrive in the village of Monjo for your overnight stop.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 4 - Trek to Namche Bazaar, 3,445m/11,302ft - 6 hours.
A principal benefit of walking as far as Monjo on the first day is that you can walk up the steep hill to Namche when fit and fresh in the early morning. You leave Monjo and continue to the park gates of the Sagarmartha National Park at Jorsale where you complete entry formalities. You then walk on alongside the river to arrive at the confluence of the Imja Drangka and the Nangpo Drangpo, which combine to form the Dudh Khosi. Crossing the river on a high bridge you start the steep climb to Namche. Near the halfway point up the hill, if the sky is clear, your first views of Everest and Lhotse come into sight. You then continue the climb, less steeply now, to Namche.
Namche is the largest and most prosperous village in the Khumbu. Thamserku, 6,618m, and Kwangde, 6,224m, loom to the east and west and the sacred mountain Khumbila, 5,707m, dominates the skyline to the north behind the village. The narrow streets at its centre are a mixture of traditional and modern, with Sherpa homes mingled with cafes, handicraft shops and shops selling or renting trekking and climbing equipment, foodstuffs and vegetables, tennis shoes and Tibetan boots. Don't be surprised if, after the exertion of the climb and the rise in elevation, you feel a little tired and head-achey. You will feel better after a cup of tea and a rest.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 5 - Acclimatisation day at Namche Bazaar
'Climb high, sleep low' is the mantra for good acclimatisation on a Mount Everest Base Camp trek. To aid acclimatisation it is a good idea today to, at the very least, walk up the hill to the Park Headquarters and visit the interesting Sagarmatha National Park Museum. From here there are the first really good views of Everest and Ama Dablam - a wonderful panorama. If you are feeling energetic you might also make the worthwhile excursion to the Everest View Hotel, situated above the village of Khumjung. Although rather an ugly building and out of keeping with its surroundings, there are very good views from its terrace and you can have a cup of tea, or a glass of hot lemon there and enjoy the scenery.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 6 - Trek to Thame, 3,800m/12,467ft - 6 hours.
Today you head north-west, up the Nangpo Drangpo valley (Bhote Khosi). As you walk up the valley, to your left you have fine views of Kwangde, 6,343m, and the waterfalls cascading off its flanks. You continue high above the river, on a contouring trail through fine rhododendron forest. Watch out along here for colourful Impeyan Pheasant, the Nepalese national bird, and small deer. Just before the village of Thamo you cross a side valley (Kyajo Kola) and from there you can look back for fine views of Thamserku, 6,648m and Kusum Kangru, 6,370m. You might choose to visit the little nunnery passed just as you leave the village. Leaving Thamo you continue up the valley, still staying high above the river before descending to cross the river near some rock paintings of Buddhist figures. For the final part of the walk you climb alongside a small stream to arrive at the cultivated fields in front of Thame village. This is where Tenzing Norgay, the first Sherpa ever to climb Mt. Everest, lived for many years with his first wife.
If you are still feeling energetic on arrival, you could make the short climb of about 1 hour to Thame monastery clinging to the cliff side above the village in a truly spectacular location. The monks here have a Mani Rimdu festival every year in the late spring. To reach the monastery you climb to the top of the ridge above the village and then ascend left to the monastery. From the monastery terrace there are fantastic views back down the valley of the mountains beyond Namche. As you descend from the monastery it is worthwhile walking to the end of the ridge to look up the valley towards the Nangpa La, a pass leading to Tibet and a principal trade route between Nepal and Tibet for many hundreds of years.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 7 - Trek to Khunde, 3,840m/12,599ft - 6 hours.
In the morning, if you did not have time yesterday, you may visit Thame gompa. You then descend back down the valley. Crossing back over the Kyajo Khola you will take a high, scenic trail up to the left which by-passes Namche and ascends past the high airstrip at Syangboche and continues over the top of the ridge before descending to Khunde.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 8 - Trek to Thyangboche, 3,863m/12,674ft - 5 hours. Selected autumn departures attend the Mani Rimdu Festival.
The trail descends from Khunde and through Khumjung with chortens forming a dramatic frame to a view of Ama Dablam, 6,696m, and Kangtaiga, 6,779m, flanked by the towering heights of Sagarmatha (the Nepalese name for Everest), Lhotse and Nuptse. You might have time on the way to visit the ancient gompa situated in a grove of trees near Khumjung. This is where they keep the scalp of a Yeti locked in a case. As you descend from the village, first through walled fields and then through moss-covered rhododendron forest, watch out for blood pheasant and beautiful Impeyan pheasant scratching in the undergrowth. You then descend through forests of rhododendron and blue pine to the village of Trashinga and on down to cross the Dudh Kosi at Phungithanga, 3,250m/10,663ft, with its water driven prayer wheels. Finally, you climb through beautiful forests to reach Thyangboche, the main monastery of the Khumbu area, situated on a high saddle.
Thyangboche lies on the forested ridge at the base of Kangtaiga and this position affords panoramic views of the main peaks of Khumbu including Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. It will probably be cloudy by the time you arrive in the early afternoon, but should normally be clear first thing in the morning, so it will be well worthwhile getting up early tomorrow morning for the sensational views. There should be time this afternoon to visit the monastery. Remember that a small donation is expected when you visit monasteries.
For those travelling on the November 2024 or October 29th 2025 departures you will arrive at Thyangboche Monastery in time to attend the Mani Rimdu Festival. This Buddhist festival, the most important festival of the Sherpa people, celebrates the role of Guru Padma Sambhava in the founding of Tibetan Buddhism. The three days of the festival in Thyangboche begin on the first day with a special blessing ceremony by the re-incarnate lama of Thyangboche, followed on the second day by masked dances and celebrations and concluding on the third day with the Fire Pooja Ceremony. The masked dances and various mystical ceremonies are performed to dispel evil spirits and to confer 'merit' to those attending. Long Tibetan horns blare, drums beat, black hat dancers twirl and the whole event has a magical ambiance. Each day of the festival is interesting in its own right and besides the masked dances there is the creation of a sand mandala and the construction of butter tormas (symbolic offerings made of coloured butter and barley flour). Please be aware that the 'running order' of the festival and even the dates can sometimes change with little notice.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 9 - Trek to Dingboche, 4,350m/14,271ft - 6 hours.
You will probably be woken in the early hours, while it is still dark, by the sound of horns and cymbals as the monks have their first prayers of the day. You will have time to visit the monastery in the morning if you did not go yesterday.
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, possibility 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. You continue from Pangboche and the path ascends above the village with the sparse landscape now reflecting the height.
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 - possibly the highest altitude in the world at which this crop is grown. For acclimatisation you need to spend two nights around the 4,000m level and Dingboche, lying in a sheltered spot above the Imja Khola is generally more attractive for this than Pheriche, another settlement at similar altitude situated on the other side of the ridge.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 10 - Acclimatisation day, Dingboche.
There are several opportunities for interesting acclimatisation walks from Dingboche. It is possible to walk up the ridge behind the village to make an energetic ascent of Naga Dzong Ri. This is a steep, but not technically difficult ascent to a summit at 5,083 metres, from where there are stunning views of Makalu and Amphu Laptse. You can take in the small temple of Nagartsang Gompa on the way down - there is a nice sheltered terrace here from where you can enjoy the views. You will descend in time for lunch in the village.
In the afternoon you might care to walk across to the village of Pheriche to visit the Himalayan Rescue Association clinic; one of the doctors there often gives a talk about high altitude acclimatisation in the afternoon. If these options don't appeal, it is possible to walk up the valley to the yak grazing pastures at Chukhung, 4,730m - a 4-5 hour round trip.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 11 - Trek to Lobuche, 4,931m/16,178ft - 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 stream (often frozen) 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 12 - Trek to Everest Base Camp, 5,300m/17,388ft, return to Gorak Shep, 5,165m/16,945ft. 6-7 hours.
This is the big day on your Everest Base Camp expedition. 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 walk to Everest 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 your remaining reserves of energy. It may be exhausting but this is one of the highlight days of this classic Everest Base Camp itinerary and you will no doubt be feeling very elated by your immense achievement.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 13 - Ascend Kala Pattar, 5,545m/18,192ft, trek down to Pheriche, 4,371m/14,340ft - 7 hours.
At Gorak Shep you will be ideally placed for an ascent of Kala Pattar in the clear of the morning before cloud comes in to obscure the summit of Everest. 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 - 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, the Tibetan peak Changtse (4,501m), Nuptse, Lhotse and countless other needles and snow fluted ridges. You can also look down on the Khumbu glacier where base camp is located during the climbing season in late spring.
You will then descend to Gorak Shep and 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 14 - Trek from Pheriche to Pangboche and on to Phortse, 3,810m/12,500ft - 5-6 hours.
Today will seem more relaxed than the past few days as you will be descending! In fact it will start to feel more like an Everest Base Camp walk than a tough trek. You descend to Pangboche for lunch. If you did not have time to visit the gompa on your way up you should have time now. After lunch, from Pangboche you take a wonderful high trail above the Imja Drengkha River. This trail undulates along the valley side and you have fabulous views across to the mountains and Thyangboche perched on its ridge. As you walk look out for Himalayan thar grazing among the boulders and lammergeyer vultures, Himalayan griffon vultures and Golden eagles, flying overhead. Finally after about 2-3 hours you round a corner and the isolated village of Phortse lies below you, situated in a spectacular spot on a promontory overlooking the Dudh Kosi in one direction and the Imja Drengka in the other.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 15 - Trek to Monjo, 2,835m/9,301ft - 6-7 hours.
From Phortse village you descend steeply through birch and rhododendron forest to the river (look out for musk deer and pheasants in these lovely quiet woods). You cross the river and then passing a couple of isolated houses there is an hour's ascent to the Mong La, 13,035ft/3,973m, a small pass marked by a chorten, birth place of Lama Sagwa Dorje. Mong La looks down on the junction of the Dudh River coming down from the Ngozumpa Glacier up in the Gokyo Valley and the Imja Drengka which comes down from Everest. At the pass there is a large chorten and prayer flags. The views from here are absolutely magical, particularly of Ama Dablam, 22,355ft/6,814m.
From Mong La you traverse across the hillside and then descend on steep stone steps to Tashinga (last chances for souvenir shopping with the Tibetan ladies!). You then climb to Kangzhuma and take a wonderful high trail which roller coasters round the hillside high above the Dudh Kosi River. Again you have fabulous views of the mountains across the valley - principally Thamserkhu and Kang Taiga. You descend into Namche for lunch. After lunch you start the knee crunching descent back down to the valley. 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: Tea House
Day 16 - Trek to Lukla, 2,880m/9,450ft - 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 enjoy a celebratory beer.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 17 - Fly to Ramechap. Drive to Kathmandu - 3½-4 hours.
Please note that flights into Lukla are sometimes delayed due to weather conditions; 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 full 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.
On arrival in Ramechap from Lukla you will be transferred back to your hotel in Kathmandu.
Overnight: Kathmandu Guest House Or Similar, Kathmandu
Day 18 - Day at leisure in Kathmandu. Group transfer to airport. Depart Nepal.
Today will be at leisure for some shopping, sightseeing or simply relaxing after your trek. If sightseeing, you might like to visit the important Hindu temple complex of Pashupatinath on the banks of the Bagmati River or the magnificent stupas of Swayambhunath or Boudhanath. You could also take a taxi in the morning (hotel reception can help you organise this) to visit one of the two old towns of the Kathmandu Valley, Bhaktapur or Patan.
Later in the afternoon there will be a transfer to the airport for your overnight flight to London
Overnight: In flight
Day 19 - Arrive London
Map
Map Key
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Airport
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Point of interest
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Mountain Peak
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Day walk in this area
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Flights
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Internal Transfers
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Trek
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Optional supplements
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Single room Kathmandu
From £80
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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
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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.
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- 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)
- All internal flights and domestic airport transfers
- Single, timed group airport transfer for international flights on arrival and departure
- Good standard hotel accommodation (4 star) in Kathmandu, twin share, bed and breakfast basis
- Tea house accommodation on trek, twin share, full board basis
- All road transport by private vehicles
- All meals on trek including tea and coffee and morning bed-tea on trek
- An evening fill of your water bottle with drinking water
- A good quality down jacket, four-season sleeping bag and fleece liner (supplied in-country)
- A free high-quality Mountain Kingdoms kit bag is included with every Everest Base Camp trek. UK clients includes postage.
- Trek staff and full porterage
- Sherpa/porters properly insured and equipped
- Park fees
- 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
- Optional trips
- Tips
Video
Read holiday reviews by Mountain Kingdoms travellers.
Overall score: 5 (Based on 14 reviews)
What an amazing opportunity, to see the world's highest peaks in all their glory. Mountain Kingdom organised a brilliant itinerary, with an healthy rate of ascent to acclimatise. The local Sherpa guides and porters were so knowledgeable and helpful, making the whole trip a complete joy.
My once in a lifetime trip to Everest Base Camp was brilliant. It was wonderful to be immersed in the Nepalese culture with such a fun group of like minded people. Our Sherpa Sirdar and his team were so kind and helpful, it was a privilege to spend one night as guests in his home. I had carefully researched which travel company to go with (spreadsheet and list of criteria). Mountain Kingdoms came out a clear winner with their group size, organisation and ethics around carbon offsetting.
Great trek from start to finish. Well looked after by engaging and hardworking guides and porters. Blessed with great weather, always sunny and a bit chilly at night. Achieved our goals and had great fun on the way.
A good challenge with great scenery.
The logistics and organisation from start to finish were second to none, and at no point were we left wondering what was going to happen. People met us, always there on time or early, and transport was excellent. Everyone was friendly and helpful and gave the impression that they were genuinely trying to make our trip a memorable experience. The hotel in Kathmandu was an oasis and the food superb. Our guide, Mani, and his team were equally friendly and helpful.
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.
- Spend two or more tranquil nights in rural Pokhara
- Sample the organic and locally sourced Nepali cuisine
- Idyllic setting with mountain views
- The resorts offers a swimming pool, spa and gym
- Eco-friendly
We are delighted to offer this new luxury stay in a rural location just outside Pokhara. We are sure this is set to become a favourite with our clients.
The Pavilions Himalayas is a luxury resort set in beautiful farmland amid paddy fields in a tranquil rural location approximately 5km outside Pokhara. There are dramatic mountain views from the resort as well as Pokhara’s famous Peace Pagoda seen on top of a nearby ridge.
The beautiful rooms are set in individual villas and are large and comfortable, all having whirlpool baths, separate rain shower cubicles, enormous beds and offering wonderful hand made soaps and shampoos made with herbs from their garden.
All facilities at the resort are top of the range and include a lovely swimming pool and spa. From the resort it is just a short drive to explore Pokhara or there are pleasant walks from the hotel or you can just chill at the resort, have a massage and enjoy the facilities.
- 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.