Everest Less Travelled
This trek is not just a journey to the base of the world's tallest mountain, but it's an adventure filled with captivating natural beauty, thrilling challenges, and intriguing cultural experiences. From the lively city of Kathmandu to the exquisite heights of the Sagarmatha/Mt Everest National Park, every step of the journey offers its unique charm.
In this blog, I’ll talk about some of the major highlights and attractions you'll encounter along the trail. These highlights don't just make the trek rewarding, but they also give insights into the region's natural diversity and cultural richness.
We will trek through a variety of landscapes, from lush valleys and dense forests to glacial moraines and high mountain passes. Each day unfolds with unexpected highlights and attractions, making the journey as memorable as the destination itself. Whether it's the thrill of landing at Phaplu airport, the vibrant Sherpa cultures in Namche Bazaar, or the unworldly views of the mighty Himalayas, this trek will be an assortment of unique experiences.
Starting Point: Kathmandu
The capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu, marks the beginning of our trek. It's a city where the old collides with the new, and modern buildings stand side-by-side with ancient temples and structures. You will have the opportunity to explore its bustling streets, sample local cuisine, and visit some of the city's many UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
One such site is Kathmandu Durbar Square, a historical royal site where kings were once crowned and legitimized. The site is a marvel of Newar architecture. The wooden carvings of gods, goddesses, monsters, and other mythical beings, each more intricate than the last, are simply awe-inspiring.
Next you’ll visit Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, perched on top of a hill overlooking the city. The Buddhist temple is known for the large, serene eyes of the Buddha that stare out across the valley. A climb up its 365-step staircase will reward you with panoramic views of the city below.
The Pashupatinath Temple, the holiest Hindu temple in Nepal, is also worth a visit. It's a sprawling complex of temples, ashrams, images, and inscriptions that has been a significant pilgrimage site for centuries.
Last but not least, explore Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest spherical stupas in Nepal. It's the center of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal and is rich in symbolic significance. The influx of large populations of Tibetan refugees from China has seen the construction of over 50 Tibetan Gompas (Monasteries) around Boudhanath.
Remember, all these sites offer a glimpse into Nepal's rich historical and cultural heritage, setting the stage for the extraordinary journey that awaits you on our trek.
Flight to Phaplu
One of the first and most exhilarating highlights of the trek is the flight to Phaplu Airport (built by Edmund Hillary to fly in building materials for local schools and hospitals). A short but thrilling flight from Kathmandu delivers us directly into the Sherpa heartland of Solu-Khumbu. During the flight, we'll be treated to breathtaking views of the Himalayan range as we fly between mountains and over landscapes that gradually change from the greenery of the lower altitudes to the snow-capped peaks of the higher ranges.
Once in Phaplu, situated at 2,413 meters above sea level, we'll start to feel the cooler temps of the mountains. The town is home to several guesthouses where we will stop for tea before officially starting our trek.
Sherpa Culture in Namche Bazaar
Namche Bazaar is one of the most well-known stops on the trek. Nestled in the mountains at an altitude of 3,440 meters, this bustling town is the economic hub of the Khumbu region and a central meeting point for local Sherpa communities.
The first sight of the terraced village, as you round a bend in the trail, is truly breathtaking, with its colorful houses and lodges spread out against the stark backdrop of the towering snow-capped peaks. Namche is also another place on the trek where we will get a glimpse of Mount Everest in the distance, a rewarding view after a steep and challenging ascent.
Namche Bazaar
In Namche Bazaar, you'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich Sherpa culture. Sherpas are an ethnic group from the most mountainous region of Nepal, high in the Himalayas. They are known for their mountaineering skills and are often hired as guides for expeditions. Visit the local museum to learn more about their culture, history, and their deep connections with the mountains.
Every Saturday, the town comes alive with a weekly market where traders from surrounding villages come to sell food, clothes, and trekking equipment. It's an excellent opportunity to interact with the locals and perhaps pick up some supplies or souvenirs. Moreover, Namche Bazaar is an acclimatization stop. We’ll spend two nights here to adjust to the altitude. During our acclimatization day, you can explore the surrounding area, visit the famous Everest View Hotel, or hike up to the Sagarmatha National Park's visitor center, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.
Overall, Namche Bazaar provides trekkers with a unique and authentic glimpse into the Sherpa lifestyle and an opportunity to engage with the people who call this high-altitude region their home.
Sagarmatha National Park
Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is another must-see highlight, spanning a stunning 1,148 square kilometers of the Solu-Khumbu district.
From lush forests and alpine vegetation to glacial peaks and rugged terrain, the diverse landscapes of Sagarmatha National Park offer a glimpse into the natural beauty of the Himalayan region. As you trek through the park, you'll come across a rich biodiversity including over 118 species of birds and a number of rare mammal species like the snow leopard, red panda, and musk deer.
Everest Region
Sagarmatha National Park also holds significant cultural value. Throughout the trek, you'll encounter monasteries, chortens, mani walls, and prayer flags, which are a testament to the deeply rooted Buddhist traditions in the region. One notable site is the Tengboche Monastery, the largest monastery in the region, known for its stunning panoramic views of Everest and Ama Dablam.
As part of the trek, we'll need to obtain a permit to enter the park. This is included in the trip price and will be organised for the group at the park's entrance in Monjo.
The journey through Sagarmatha National Park is a challenging yet rewarding experience, bringing you face-to-face with the majestic beauty of the Himalayas and the rich culture of the Sherpa community. It's an adventure that leaves a lasting impression on all those who undertake it.
Incredible Mountain Views
The most memorable highlight of our trek is, undoubtedly, the stunning mountain vistas. As we trek deeper into the Khumbu region, we will be surrounded by some of the highest and most awe-inspiring peaks in the world.
The journey provides unparalleled views of majestic Himalayan giants, including Mount Everest, the world's highest peak at 8,848 meters. But it's not just about Everest. The trek introduces you to a series of mesmerizing peaks such as Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumori, Changtse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku, each unique in its shape and character.
Additionally, throughout the trek, we'll be walking through terrain that constantly changes - from verdant forests, rushing rivers, and glacial moraines to high-altitude alpine ecosystems. These ever-changing landscapes add to the visual feast that is the Everest region. The photographic opportunities are endless, and the views are the kind that stay with you long after the trek is over.
Hospitality of Local People
One of the memorable highlights of our trek is undoubtedly the warm and generous hospitality of the local people, mainly the Sherpas. Sherpas are a Tibetan ethnic group native to the most mountainous regions of Nepal and the Himalayas, and they are renowned worldwide for their mountaineering skills and their intrinsic knowledge of the high altitudes. But it's their kindness and open-hearted welcome that leaves a lasting impression on visitors.
Sherpa People
From Kathmandu to Lukla, and all the way up to the remote high-altitude villages on the trail, trekkers will meet and interact with local Sherpas and other ethnic groups. Stopping at teahouses run by local families, sharing meals and stories, and learning about their culture, traditions, and the challenges of life in these harsh yet beautiful surroundings creates an invaluable cultural exchange.
Local people are often more than happy to share tales of their life in the mountains, local folklore, and the many climbing expeditions they've seen pass through their lands. Their warm smiles, genuine hospitality, and their resilience in the face of daily hardships leave an indelible mark on the hearts of those who pass through their villages.
The tea houses that provide accommodation along the route are run by Sherpa families who provide home-cooked meals and a warm place to rest. These tea houses are the heart of Sherpa community life and offer a fascinating glimpse into local customs and rituals.
In a land that is often harsh and inhospitable, the warm, welcoming nature of the Sherpas and other local communities stands as a testament to the enduring human spirit. Their hospitality is an integral part of the trekking in the Everest region, adding a rich, human dimension to the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the mountains.
Tenzing Hillary Airport, Lukla
Tenzing-Hillary Airport, also known as Lukla Airport, is often the first and last major highlight of the Everest Base Camp trek. Named after Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay, the first individuals confirmed to have reached the summit of Mount Everest, the airport serves as the main gateway to the Khumbu and Everest region.
We will complete our trek with a short but thrilling flight from Lukla to Kathmandu. It's is considered one of the most exhilarating in the world due to the airport's unique location perched on a mountainside 2,860 meters above sea level, and its incredibly short runway that is just 527 meters long and inclined at 12% gradient.
View From Lukla Airport
Experienced pilots navigate these conditions expertly, making the journey a safe one for the thousands of adventurers who pass through each year.
The small town offers a variety of accommodations and services, as well as spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, making it a fascinating finishing point for the trek.
Hotel Everest View
The Hotel Everest View, situated within Sagarmatha National Park, is another highlight of the Everest Base Camp Trek that should not be missed. At a height of 3,962m above sea level, it holds the Guinness World Record for the highest-placed hotel in the world.
The Hotel Everest View is conveniently located above Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa capital and the hub of the Khumbu region. It's about an hour's walk from the town center, and it's on our trek route. The hotel is typically visited during an acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar.
Hotel Everest View
The real highlight of the Hotel Everest View is its terrace. Here, you can enjoy a hot drink while soaking up the incredible panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Mt. Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Lhotse, and others.
Despite the remote location, the hotel provides a high standard of comfort to its guests. With its solar heating and an environmentally sensitive waste disposal system, it has also been built and maintained with a strong emphasis on sustainability. This balance of luxury and eco-friendly consciousness in the heart of the Himalayas makes a visit to the Hotel Everest View a memorable experience.
Hotel Everest View is a highlight that offers an exclusive view of Everest and the surrounding peaks like no other place on the trek.
The Everest Less Travelled Trek is a journey that encapsulates the breathtaking allure of the Himalayas. From the buzzing streets of Kathmandu to the exhilarating flight into Phaplu, and from the rich Sherpa culture of Namche Bazaar to the tranquil spiritual atmosphere of the Thame Monastery, each moment of this trek offers something new and exciting.
Walking on the trails adorned by majestic mountain is nothing short of transformative. The challenge of reaching the base of the world's highest peak, Mount Everest, brings with it a sense of achievement and admiration for the indomitable spirit of the mountaineers who have scaled its heights.
This trek is more than just a journey; it is an exploration of the magnificent landscapes, vibrant culture, and captivating tales of bravery associated with Everest. The hospitality of local people, and the memorable moments spent in the comfort of cosy lodges, all add to the rich tapestry of experiences that make the Everest Less Travelled Trek a coveted journey for adventure enthusiasts across the globe.
While the trek can be physically demanding, the beauty and thrill of the journey make every step worth it. So, pack your bags, lace up your boots, and embark on this unforgettable adventure. Remember, the allure of Everest Base Camp lies not just in reaching the destination, but in the journey itself. Here's to witnessing the best of the Himalayas and creating memories that will last a lifetime!
FAQs for Highlights and Attractions of Everest Base Camp Trek
Q: What is the main attraction of the Everest Less Travelled Trek?
A: The mountains! Being so close to 5 of the world's highest mountains, including the highest - Mount Everest - is the main attraction of this trek. However, along the way, trekkers also enjoy many other highlights such as panoramic views every minute of the trek, Sherpa culture in Namche Bazaar, and the beautiful flora and fauna in Sagarmatha National Park.
Q: Are there any cultural sights to see on the Everest Less Travelled Trek?
A: Yes, there are. The trek gives you a wonderful opportunity to delve into Sherpa culture, particularly in the village of Namche Bazaar. You can also visit the iconic Thame Monastery, the oldest monastery in the Khumbu region.
Q: What are some must-see natural attractions on the trek?
A: Some must-see natural attractions include the beautiful Sagarmatha National Park, the Khumbu Icefall, and the Khumbu Glacier. The flight to Phaplu itself offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
Q: What makes the flight to Phaplu so special?
A: The flight to Phaplu is considered one of the most thrilling short flights in the world due to the unique location of the airport, perched on a hillside and surrounded by towering mountains.
Q: What is the significance of the Thame Monastery?
A: Thame monastery the oldest monastery in the Khumbu Region. The monastery is located 200 meters above Thame Village which itself is at the elevation of 3800 metres. The monastery sits on the southern sloping area of Sumdur peak (5377meters). The monastery is believed to have been founded around in 16th century’s by The Great Master LAMA ROLPA DORJEE. He was a practitioner endowed with great powers and as a sign of accomplishment was able to twist an iron rod with his bare hand. The particular rod is preserved in the main shrine of the monastery and is displayed during the annual Dumjee festival .
Thame Dechen Chokhorling Monastery
Q: What can I expect to experience in terms of local hospitality?
A: The Sherpa people, known for their warmth and friendliness, offer wonderful hospitality. Whether it's at teahouses where you rest and dine, or through casual encounters in the villages, you'll get to experience their welcoming nature firsthand.
Q: Will I see any wildlife during the trek?
A: Yes, if you're lucky, you may see some wildlife in the Sagarmatha National Park, such as Himalayan Thars, Musk Deer, or even Snow Leopards. Bird watchers will also enjoy spotting different species of birds.
Q: Is Hotel Everest View worth a visit?
A: Yes, it is. Hotel Everest View is listed in the Guinness World Records as being the highest-placed hotel in the world and offers unparalleled views of Everest and other peaks. If time and route permit, it's definitely worth a visit.
Heather is hosting a fully guided ‘Everest Less Travelled’ retreat in December 2024. If you would like to find out more please follow the button below to express your interest. We’d love to have you join us!