Day 1: Kathmandu Arrival (1,400m) – Gateway to the Himalayas

Welcome to Kathmandu! Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. This day is essential for acclimatizing to the new environment. Enjoy a warm introduction to our team and a brief on the expedition ahead. Kathmandu, at an elevation of 1,400 meters, offers a vibrant blend of cultural heritage and modern amenities, setting the perfect stage for the adventure that lies ahead.

Day 2: Flight to Lukla, Trek to Phakding (2,610m) – First Steps in the Himalayas

Early morning, embark on a breathtaking flight to Lukla, a town set against stunning mountainous backdrops, which takes about 25-30 minutes. The trek to Phakding starts with a gentle descent through lush landscapes, traditional Sherpa villages, and alongside the Dudh Koshi River, with a total trekking time of around 3-4 hours. Overnight in a local teahouse, experiencing your first taste of Sherpa hospitality.

Day 3: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m) – The Gateway to High Himalayas

Today’s trek, approximately 7-8 hours, is a mix of uphill and flat terrain. Cross several suspension bridges, including the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge, and get your first distant view of Mt. Everest. Namche Bazaar, known as the Sherpa capital, is a bustling town with cafes, shops, and stunning views of the Himalayas. Acclimatization here is crucial due to the significant increase in altitude.

Day 4: Namche Acclimatization Day – Exploring the Sherpa Kingdom

A crucial day for acclimatization in Namche Bazaar. We will go on a short hike to Everest View Hotel, offering panoramic views of the Everest range. You can also explore the streets of Namche in the evening. This day helps your body adapt to the altitude, increasing your chances of a successful summit. Enjoy the vibrant Sherpa culture and hospitality that Namche offers.

Day 5: Trek to Deboche (3,860m) – Monasteries and Mountains

Journey through vibrant rhododendron forests towards Deboche. En route, visit the iconic Tengboche Monastery, a spiritual oasis and the highest monastery in the Khumbu region. See a number of stupas along the way before arriving at Deboche, a tranquil haven offering breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere for reflection amidst the mountains.

Day 6: Trek to Dingboche (4,350m) – Higher and Wilder

Trek through picturesque villages and terraced fields with a gradual ascent, taking about 5 hours. Notice the change in vegetation as you move into more arid and alpine terrain. Dingboche is a picturesque village offering stunning views of Ama Dablam and other high peaks.

Day 7: Dingboche to Nangarshang (5,000m) and Back – Acclimatization Hike

Today, we’ll go on an essential acclimatization hike to Nangarshang and back, taking about 4-5 hours in total. This hike provides stunning views of Makalu and Lhotse and helps your body adjust to the altitude. The rest of the day is for relaxing and preparing for the next phase of the trek.

Day 8: Dingboche to Chhukung (4,730m) – Preparation for the Climb

A relatively short trek of about 3-4 hours brings you to Chhukung, nestled in a valley between beautiful peaks. Spend the afternoon preparing for the climb, including gear checks and a briefing on the climbing techniques required for the summit push.

Day 9: Chhukung to Island Peak Base Camp (5,100m) – Towards the Challenge

This day’s trek is a significant shift as you move into the high-altitude realm, taking about 3-4 hours. You’ll trek over a fairly rugged trail, composed of steep hills and flat riverbeds. The path takes you through an alpine landscape sprinkled with boulders and small streams, requiring careful navigation.

Day 10: Base Camp to High Camp (5,600m) – Edge of the Summit

The trek from Base Camp to High Camp is a demanding journey, taking about 4-5 hours, and involves a steep climb over rocky and sometimes snow-covered terrain. This part of the climb is both physically and mentally challenging. The path involves navigating through a series of short rocky steps, moraines, and a glacier, which requires careful footwork and steady pacing. The evening at High Camp is all about preparing for the early morning summit attempt.

Day 11: Summit Island Peak (6,160m) & Back to Base Camp– Summit Day

The summit day starts early, around midnight, and involves a challenging climb of about 10-12 hours to the top of Imja Tse & back. The ascent includes navigating crevasses, climbing steep snow slopes, and a ridge leading to the summit. The summit offers a spectacular view of the surrounding Himalayas, including Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.

Day 12: Buffer Day – Ensuring a Safe Summit

This additional day is set aside to deal with potential adverse weather or acclimatization issues. It provides flexibility and increases the chances of a successful summit, ensuring that you have the best possible conditions for your ascent.

Day 13: Return to Dingboche – Journey Back

Retrace your steps back to Dingboche, taking about 5-6 hours. This day allows for reflection on the successful summit attempt and a gradual descent to lower altitudes. Enjoy the changing landscapes and the sense of accomplishment.

Day 14: Trek to Namche Bazaar – Nostalgic Return

The 6-7 hour trek to Namche Bazaar is a journey through memories, descending back through the familiar landscapes of the Khumbu region. Enjoy the last glimpses of the high mountains and the warmth of the Sherpa culture.

Day 15: Namche to Lukla – Final Trekking Day

Trek back to Lukla over 6-7 hours, reflecting on the experiences of the past days. This final day of trekking is a mix of joy for the accomplished journey and melancholy as the high mountains are left behind.

Day 16: Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu – Back to Urbanity

Take a morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu, marking the end of your mountain journey. The flight offers one last chance to view the majestic Himalayas from above. Spend the rest of the day in Kathmandu, perhaps exploring more of the city or enjoying a celebratory meal.

Day 17: Departure from Kathmandu – Farewell to the Mountains

Your expedition concludes with your departure from Kathmandu. It’s a time to say goodbye to the new friends made, the mountains conquered, and the memories gathered.