Everest High Passes Trek

Altitude above sea level: 1,302 m / 4,269 ft.

Driving Time: Approx. 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Accommodation: Hotel Tibet or similar

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu,, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative, who will be holding a “Nepal Sanctuary Treks” sign outside the terminal to greet you.

You will be transferred to your hotel in a private vehicle. After checking in and freshening up, our representative will meet you to give a detailed briefing on the upcoming itinerary, along with important safety guidelines and hygiene practices to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trek.

Altitude above sea level: 1,218 m / 3,996 ft. – Ramechhap
Drive Duration: Approx. 4 hrs.
Accommodation: Guest House
After breakfast, take the morning to relax and enjoy at your own pace. In the afternoon, a private vehicle will take you to Ramechhap.

Altitude above sea level: 2,610 m / 8,563 ft. – Phakding
Driving Duration: Approximately 1 hour
Flight Duration: Around 25 minutes
Flight Time: 6:15 AM
Hiking Duration: 4–5 hrs. approx. (9 km / 5.6 mi)
Ascent: 280 m / 919 ft
Descent: 510 m / 1,673 ft
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Begin your day with an early breakfast before heading to Ramechhap Airport for a short yet thrilling flight to Lukla (2,840 m / 9,315 ft), renowned for its adventurous mountain runway. During the flight, enjoy stunning views of the majestic Himalayan peaks, including Cho Oyu (8,153 m / 26,781 ft), Lhotse (8,516 m / 27,940 ft), Gauri Shankar (7,145 m / 23,444 ft), and Menlungtse (7,181 m / 23,557 ft).
Upon arrival in Lukla, your Everest Base Camp journey officially begins as you start trekking toward Phakding. The route follows the beautiful Dudh Koshi River, often called the “Milk River” for its milky-blue glacial waters. Along the trail, you’ll pass through traditional Sherpa villages, suspension bridges, and colorful prayer wheels, with Mani stones carved with Buddhist prayers lining the path.
After passing through the quaint villages of Chaurikharka and Ghat, you’ll reach Phakding, a peaceful riverside settlement that serves as your first overnight stop on the remarkable trek to Everest Base Camp.

Altitude above sea level: 3,445 m / 11,302 ft. Namche Bazaar
Hiking Duration: 6–7 hrs. approx.  (11 km / 6.8 mi)
Ascent: 1,150 m / 3,773 ft.
Descent: 320 m / 1,050 ft. 
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a nourishing breakfast, set out on your trek, crossing and re-crossing the Dudh Koshi River, whose milky-blue waters flow from glaciers high in the Himalayas. The trail passes through pine forests, open meadows, and terraced farmlands, offering glimpses of local crops and rural mountain life. Along the way, you’ll likely encounter donkeys and yaks carrying supplies and trekking gear along the narrow paths.

You’ll pass through the picturesque villages of Benkar, Monjo, and Jorsale before tackling a steep ascent of around 600 meters (2,000 ft) leading up to Namche Bazaar—the gateway to the high Himalayas.

Namche Bazaar is the largest and most vibrant town in the Khumbu region, beautifully situated on a natural amphitheater with sweeping views of the Dudh Koshi Valley. This bustling mountain hub offers everything from cafes and bakeries to trekking shops and lodges. Historically, Namche served as a vital trading point where Tibetan yak caravans met Hindu merchants from the lowlands, creating a rich blend of cultures that still thrives today.

Altitude above sea level: 3,790 m / 12,434 ft. Khumjung
Hiking Duration: 4–5 hrs. approx.  ( 7.6 km / 4.7 mi)
Ascent: 520 m / 1,706 ft.
Descent: 520 m / 1,706 ft.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Namche is the perfect spot for acclimatization, offering stunning views and plenty of exciting activities. The surrounding landscape is breathtaking, making it an excellent base for exploration. Start with a short hike above Namche to enjoy panoramic views of Mount Everest. Hiking to the nearby villages not only offers stunning views but also help your body acclimate before you venture higher toward Everest Base Camp.

We hike to the picturesque village of Khumjung, a hidden gem in the Khumbu region. Khumjung is home to a monastery said to house a Yeti scalp, the historic Hillary School founded in 1961, and charming homes with signature green roofs. This cultural stop enriches your Everest journey, blending natural beauty with Sherpa heritage.

After exploring Khumjung, we trek back to Namche Bazaar, completing a rewarding day of acclimatization and cultural discovery.

Altitude above sea level: 3,770 m / 12,369 ft — Debuche
Hiking Duration: Approximately 6–7 hours (10 km / 6.2 mi)
Ascent: 985 m / 3,232 ft
Descent: 810 m / 2,657 ft
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Leaving Namche Bazaar, you trek to Debuche, located about a 30-minute walk from Tengboche, home to the region’s largest monastery. This monastery hosts the vibrant Mani Rimdu festival each autumn shortly after the full moon, featuring religious ceremonies, traditional songs, dances, and legendary performances, and visitors are warmly invited to join. The trail to Debuche winds through rhododendron forests and follows the Dudh Koshi River. While the path is steep at times, it rewards trekkers with spectacular views of Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse. Along the way, colorful prayer flags and smaller gompas add a rich cultural and spiritual dimension to your journey.

Altitude above sea level: 3,875 m / 12,713 ft — Pangboche
Hiking Duration: Approximately 2–3 hours (3.5 km / 2.17 mi)
Ascent: 240 m / 787 ft.
Descent: 80 m / 262 ft.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, you follow winding trails along roaring rivers and through lush forests, gradually entering a more rocky and barren terrain. The scenic route from Debuche crosses the Imja River before reaching Pangboche. In the afternoon, you can relax or explore the nearby monasteries. The village offers a tranquil atmosphere and stunning views of the Everest trekking region. From here, the majestic peaks of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Thamserku, Kangtega, and Ama Dablam can be admired in all their glory.

Altitude above sea level: 4,350 m / 14,268 ft — Dingboche
Hiking Duration: Approximately 3–4 hours (6.5 km / 4.04 mi)
Ascent: 600 m / 1,969 ft.
Descent: 120 m / 394 ft.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Leaving Pangboche behind, the uphill trail continues to Dingboche, offering breathtaking views of Lhotse, Island Peak, Ama Dablam, and the surrounding deep valleys. Trekking along dry, rocky paths through typical Sherpa villages, you gradually ascend, with opportunities to spot wildlife such as musk deer, mountain goats, and various birds. As you approach Dingboche, a Buddhist stupa marks the village’s entrance. Nestled at the base of towering Ama Dablam and other peaks hidden from Namche’s view, Dingboche also serves as the gateway to Chukung Village and Island Peak.

Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today is an acclimatization day in Dingboche, giving your body time to adjust to the higher altitude. These shorter hikes are important for your safety and comfort as you continue toward Everest Base Camp.

Acclimatization Hike Options:

Option 1 – Hike to Nangkartshang (Viewpoint): 5,080 m / 16,700 ft; 3 hrs approx. (3.5 km / 2.2 mi); 670 m / 2,198 ft ascent, 670 m / 2,198 ft descent
This rewarding 3-hour hike leads to Nangkartshang Hill, situated above Dingboche on the edge of the Chukkung Valley. From the viewpoint, enjoy sweeping vistas of Lobuche East (6,119 m), Lobuche West (6,145 m), Kangtega (6,685 m), Taboche (6,367 m), Thamserku (6,608 m), and Ama Dablam (6,856 m). This scenic location is perfect for photography, quiet reflection, and soaking in the Himalayan panorama.

Option 2 – Chukung Village Hike: 4,730 m / 15,518 ft; 5–6 hrs approx. (5 km / 3.1 mi); 430 m / 1,411 ft ascent, 13 m / 43 ft descent
For a longer trek, head toward Chukung Village, a key stop for trekkers en route to Island Peak. This 5–6 hour hike provides spectacular views of Ama Dablam, Makalu, and other Himalayan giants. Chukung is a serene village that offers insight into the traditional Sherpa lifestyle and local culture.

Both hikes are designed to aid acclimatization while immersing you in the breathtaking beauty of the Everest Region, preparing you for higher altitudes ahead.

Altitude above sea level: 4,931 m / 16,175 ft.–Lobuche
Hiking Duration: 5 hrs. approx. (12 km / 7.5 mi)
Ascent: 965 m / 3,166 ft.
Descent: 445 m / 1,460 ft.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After an early breakfast, your trek begins with a gradual ascent across a plateau dotted with yak herder shelters. The trail offers stunning views of iconic peaks including Everest, Cholatse, Lobuche, and Pumori, creating a dramatic alpine landscape.

After roughly two and a half hours of steady hiking, you will arrive at Thukla, located beneath the terminal moraine of the Khumbu Glacier, the highest glacier in the world. From here, the path climbs the moraine, passing the Climber and Sherpa Memorial, which honors those who have lost their lives on Everest. Some memorials feature inscriptions recounting heroic efforts, while others are simple cairns, commemorating unsung adventurers.

As you leave the tree line behind, the trail enters the expansive glacial moraine, where the landscape becomes rugged and surreal. Here, you will catch your first glimpse of Kala Patthar, a famous viewpoint offering one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Everest. The trail then gradually descends into the Lobuche Valley, where you can rest and reflect on the awe-inspiring journey ahead.

Altitude above sea level: 5,288 m / 17,340 ft.-  Gorak Shep
Hiking Duration: 7–8 hrs. approx. (12 km / 7.5 mi)
Ascent: 490 m / 1,608 ft.
Descent: 260 m / 853 ft.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today marks the highlight of your Everest Base Camp trek. After breakfast, embark on an exciting hike to Gorak Shep, traversing the rocky terrain of the Khumbu Glacier. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking views of the Khumbu Icefall and towering Himalayan peaks, setting the scene for this epic journey.

After a well-earned lunch in Gorak Shep, continue to Everest Base Camp (5,360 m / 17,590 ft.). The final stretch is adorned with colorful prayer flags, leading you to the iconic base camp where you’ll be surrounded by Mount Everest and the magnificent Himalayas.

Celebrate this once-in-a-lifetime achievement before returning to Gorak Shep to rest and reflect on your trek. Reaching Everest Base Camp is a truly unforgettable milestone in your journey.

Altitude above sea level: 4,930 m / 16,178 ft. — Lobuche
Hiking Duration: 6–7 hrs. approx. (9.11 km / 5.66 mi)
Ascent: 450 m / 1,476 ft.
Descent: 680 m / 2,231 ft.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Start your day early with a rewarding hike to Kala Patthar (5,545 m / 18,192 ft.), the renowned viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas. From here, admire Mount Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Pumori, and other towering peaks. Experience the sunrise or sunset casting golden light over the mountains.

After taking in the spectacular scenery, descend back to Gorak Shep for a hearty breakfast. Continue your trek down to Lobuche, where you can relax, unwind, and reflect on your incredible Everest journey.

Altitude above sea level: 5,200 m / 17,060 ft — Dzong La
Hiking Duration: Approximately 4 hours (6.5 km / 4 mi)
Ascent: 117 m / 384 ft
Descent: 220 m / 722 ft
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, leave Lobuche behind and trek toward Dzong La. The trail gently descends along the right bank of the Dudh Koshi River, passing through local villages and the scenic Chola Tso Lake before arriving at Dzong La. This village lies at the base of Cho La Pass, connecting the main Everest Base Camp trek with the Gokyo region. During summer, the area serves as grazing land for yak herders. From here, enjoy breathtaking views of Ama Dablam, Taboche, and a distant glimpse of Cholatse Lake.

Altitude above sea level: 4,620 m / 15,157 ft. — Thangnak
Hiking Duration: Approximately 7–8 hours (8.1 km / 5.0 mi)
Ascent: 690 m / 2,264 ft.
Descent: 830 m / 2,723 ft.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After an early breakfast, begin a long but rewarding trek with spectacular views of Cholatse. The trail starts with a lateral ascent along moraines, passing small, rushing lakes. The stunning scenery provides motivation throughout the uphill trek. After several hours, you reach Cho La Pass (5,400 m / 17,717 ft), where panoramic views of snow-capped peaks—Taboche, Cholatse, Baruntse, and Thamserku.

After enjoying the vistas, descend toward the Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in Nepal. Continue trekking until you reach Thangnak, a small Sherpa settlement nestled beneath towering rock walls, located just a short distance from the glacier.

Altitude above sea level: 4,800 m / 15,748 ft. — Gokyo
Hiking Duration: Approximately 2 hours (4 km / 2.5 mi)
Ascent: 142 m / 466 ft.
Descent: 63 m / 207 ft.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, cross the Ngozumpa Glacier and trek along the lateral moraine valley. Along the way, you’ll pass the first Gokyo Lake, Longponga Tsho, followed by the larger second lake, Taboche Tsho, where green-headed ducks are often seen swimming in the chilly waters. Continue onward to the picturesque village of Gokyo, located on the shore of the third Gokyo Lake, Dudh Pokhari (Milk Lake), surrounded by majestic mountain scenery.

Altitude above sea level: 5,486 m / 18,007 ft — Gokyo Ri
Hiking duration: 2 km / 1.2 mi to Gokyo Ri (approx. 2 hours), 9 km / 5.6 mi to Gokyo 5th Lake (approx. 4 hours)
Ascent: 560 m / 1,837 ft
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, start your day with a hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357 m / 17,575 ft), beginning with a short walk from the village. The ascent is steep, so it’s best to go slowly to enjoy the views and allow your body to acclimatize.

From the summit of Gokyo Ri, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and surrounding peaks, along with the Ngozumpa Glacier and the Gokyo Lakes below.

After descending from Gokyo Ri, continue trekking north to visit the 4th and 5th Gokyo Lakes. The 4th lake is located north of Gokyo, framed by high cliffs and Himalayan peaks. Proceed further to reach the 5th lake, the farthest point of this part of the hike.

On the return journey, hike back to the 4th lake, then follow the trail to Gokyo Village. This path runs along the northern edge of the Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in the world. Along the way, enjoy stunning mountain scenery and capture the glacial landscape in photos.

Altitude above sea level: 3,867 m / 12,687 ft. — Lungden
Hiking duration: Approximately 7–8 hours (12 km / 7.5 mi)
Ascent: 570 m / 1,870 ft.
Descent: 980 m / 3,215 ft.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, leave Gokyo behind for a long and challenging hike toward Lungden. The trail takes you over the Renjo La Pass (5,092 m / 16,703 ft), with several ups and downs along the way. You gradually ascend through grassy areas and rocky terrain, following a winding path that becomes steeper as you approach the pass.

Upon reaching Renjo La, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Cho Oyu, Nuptse, Everest, Cholatse, Makalu, and surrounding peaks. After taking in the scenery, begin a steep descent on the west side into a remote valley with stunning landscapes.

Continue downhill through lush meadows toward the Bhote Koshi Valley, following the river until you reach the peaceful village of Lungden, where you will stay overnight.

Altitude above sea level: 3,445 m / 11,302 ft — Namche Bazaar
Hiking duration: Approximately 7–8 hours (18.17 km / 11.29 mi)
Descent: 940 m / 3,084 ft
Accommodation: Tea house lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, you start your descent from Lungden to Thame. The hike today includes downhill stretches, flat paths, and a few short uphill sections. You follow a trail along the east side of the river, passing through several charming villages. The path continues steadily downhill to Marulung, where you cross a bridge over the Bhote Koshi River. From there, the trail has a series of ups and downs until you reach Taranga.

You then trek through dense forests filled with diverse flora and fauna. Along the way, you’ll pass traditional Sherpa villages with distinctive stone walls. Continuing downhill, you arrive at Thame, a village with an ancient monastery where you can join evening prayers. Afterwards, you have time to explore the valley and enjoy spectacular views of Teng Kangpoche and Kwangde peaks.

Altitude above sea level: 2,840 m / 9,317 ft. — Lukla
Hiking duration: Approximately 7–8 hours (15 km / 9.32 mi)
Ascent: 694 m / 2,276 ft.
Descent: 1,200 m / 3,937 ft.
Accommodation: Tea house lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, you begin descending to Monjo, then continue down through the Dudh Koshi Valley, passing villages such as Phakding, Ghat, and Cheplung. The sound of the rushing Dudh Koshi River accompanies you throughout the trek. Along the way, you cross several suspension bridges and pass by monasteries and local villages. The landscape remains below the tree line, dotted with terraced farms and picturesque settlements.

Once you reach Chaurikharka, you tackle the final climb to Lukla, completing your trek.

Altitude above sea level: 1,302 m / 4,272 ft — Kathmandu
Flight time: Approximately 25 minutes
Driving duration: Approximately 4 hours
Accommodation: Hotel Tibet or similar
Meals: Breakfast

After an early breakfast, you’ll take a flight from Lukla back to Ramechhap airport. Upon arrival, you will drive for about four hours back to Kathmandu, completing your journey.

Meal: Breakfast

It is time to fly back home, keeping all the incredible experiences of Nepal in mind. The representative from Nepal Sanctuary Treks will transfer you to TIA airport, where you should check in 3 hours prior to your scheduled flight.