From Phakding, we cross and re-cross the rivers on high suspension bridges. Beyond Monjo is the entrance to the Sagarmatha National Park. The park was set-up to conserve this fragile mountain environment. We then ascend steeply to Namche and along the way, if the weather permits, catch the first glimpse of Mt Everest. Namche is the main trading village in Khumbu and has a busy Saturday market- a meeting place for the Hindu traders from the lowlands and the Tibetan yak caravans that have crossed the glaciated Nangpa La. You then reach the Namche bazaar.

Namche is tucked away between two ridges amidst the giant peaks of the khumbu and has an abundance of lodges, tea shops and souvenir shops. It is an ideal place to spend a day, acclimatizing to the new altitude before heading off towards Tengboche. To acclimatize, you visit Khunde Hospital set-up by Sir Edmund Hillary, or take a one hour walk up to the Everest View Hotel above Namche for the sunset view of Ama Dablam, Nuptse, Lhotse and Everest. There are also good views from the Natioanl Park Centre and Museum just above the town.

Ascending from Namche Bazaar, we pass the airstrip at Syanboche and Japanese-built Everest View Hotel. From the hotel there are magnificent views of the valley and Everest. We walk to the picturesque village of Khumjung with many old traditional houses as well as a gompa at the to end of town. At the nereby village of Khunde, is the famous hospital built by Sir Edmund Hillary, an important center of health care in the region.

Heading east, we pass a large Chorten and then descend to a bridge across the Dudh Koshi at Phunki Tenga. From the river, the trail ascends through a forest of pine and rhododendron, before arriving at Thyangboche Monastery. The views here are truly tragic fire in 1989 destroyed it. The monastery is well worth a visit.

From Thyangboche, we head back through the forest to Phunki Tenga with its water-driven prayer wheels. With the Everest and Lhotse receding at the distance, we make our way back down to Namche and descend further to Chumoa.

Our final day’s trekking follows the Dudh Koshi back down to Lukla. This last evening in the mountains presents an ideal opportunity for a farewell party with the Sherpa guides and porters. We get to sample Chang (Local Beer), try some Sherpa dance steps and end the trek on a merry note.

After an early breakfast, we head to the airstrip for our return journey to Kathmandu, installation in the hotel, free until dinner and overnight.