This trek takes you through the most beautiful and awe-inspiring regions of the Sagarmatha National Park. From the world’s highest glacier lakes in the Gokyo valley to the base camp of Nepal’s most famous geographic wonder, Mount Everest (Sagarmatha, Mother Earth), this trail journeys into the heartland of the Sherpa people. Sherpas live in this rolling landscape of lush low alpine vegetation and dry high altitude scrubland, alongside the highest mountains in the world. This adventure will provide an insight into their rich Buddhist culture and their traditional way of life. Sights of Amadablam (6856m), Everest (8848m), Lhotse (8501m) and Cho Oyu (8201m) will dominate the landscape, but you’ll also see glimpses of other 8000m giants, Makalu (8463m) and Shisapangma (8013m), from the trail. In Spring, the valley is awash with flowering rhondodendron trees of various colours and large white magnolia trees. Spring also brings climbers from around the globe with Everest ambitions.

Our Route begins from the gateway airport town of Lukla at 2840m. Following the Dudh Kosi River on the valley floor, the trail first passes through farming villages of mixed Tamang, Rai and Sherpa communities. We then make a sharp ascent up to Namche, the capital of the Khumbu and the traditional trading centre of the Sherpas. We take a less travelled road to Phortse Tenga, which lies a short distance from the traditional Sherpa farming village of Phortse. From here it’s a gradual hike up passing through Dole and Machermo before reaching Goyko. With an early morning start, we climb up to Gokyo Ri to enjoy sunrise views of 4 of Nepal’s 8000m peaks. Another highlight in the Cho La pass (5330m) crossing follows next, before we descend back down the valley toward Lobuche. Then it’s a gentle rocky ascent besides the Khumbu glacier to Everest base camp, and to up close views of the infamous Khumbhu icefall. We return via Gorak Shep to prepare for a morning summit of Kala Pattar (5550m). This magnificent viewpoint allows the closest and clearest view of Everest.

Our return route passes through Pheriche and Tengboche monastery. The Tengboche monastery is the largest monastery in the region and is open to visitors to share prayer time with monks.

TECHNICAL GRADING

This is a trek only and it requires no prior trekking experience. Good fitness is required, as most days will involve 2-6 hr of trekking carrying a 5kg daypack. The trail is non-technical but will reach a maximum altitude of 5550m.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama dablam, Makalu and Cho Oyu

• Colourful Buddhist culture and spirited Sherpa people

• Crossing Cho La pass

• Ascents of Kala Pattar and Gokyo Ri

• Tengboche Monastery