Nepal
26 days from $9403 pp with roundtrip flights
Walk the classic Khumbu trails to Everest Base Camp and summit Island Peak (6,189m) on a meticulously paced high-altitude adventure that blends iconic viewpoints with a genuine Himalayan climbing experience. Starting in Kathmandu and flying into Lukla, you follow the Dudh Koshi to Namche Bazaar, then weave through Sherpa hamlets—Khumjung, Phortse, Pangboche—with deliberate acclimatisation days that embrace the “climb high, sleep low” principle.
Above tree line, the scenery opens to Ama Dablam, Lhotse and the glacier-scarred valley floors. You crest to Lobuche and trek across the Khumbu moraine to Gorak Shep, ascend Kala Patar (5,554m) for the quintessential Everest panorama, and visit the cairn-strewn Everest Base Camp. A high traverse over the prayer-flagged Kongma La (5,535m) drops you into the Imja Valley for skills practice around Chhukung, with an optional warm-up on Chhukung Ri.
The climbing phase focuses on efficient movement on fixed lines, safe glacier travel and steady pacing to the airy summit ridge of Island Peak, where a 360° sweep takes in Everest, Nuptse and the shark fin of Ama Dablam. With a built-in contingency day for weather or rest, and porter support to keep daypacks light, this itinerary prioritises safety, acclimatisation and success without compromising the joy of unhurried mountain days.
Graded challenging, this journey suits fit trekkers with a head for heights who are eager to add a first Himalayan summit to their CV. Expect rewarding effort, crisp alpine starts, and the warmth of Sherpa hospitality—rounded off by a scenic flight to Ramechhap and a road transfer back to Kathmandu for a well-earned celebration.
Day 1 : DEPART NEW YORK – KATHMANDU
Day 2 : ARRIVE IN KATHMANDU – PRIVATE TRANSFER & LEISURE
Day 3 : ISLAND PEAK PREPARATION – GEAR CHECK, BRIEFING & LEISURE
Day 4 : DRIVE TO RAMECHHAP (MANTHALI) – OVERNIGHT AT LODGE & LEISURE
Day 5 : FLY TO LUKLA (2,860M / 9,383FT) & TREK TO PHAKDING (2,610M / 8,563FT) – ~3 HOURS
Day 6 : TREK TO NAMCHE BAZAAR (3,440M / 11,286FT) – ~5 HOURS
Day 7 : NAMCHE BAZAAR – ACCLIMATISATION DAY & LEISURE
Day 8 : SHORT TREK TO KHUMJUNG (3,780M / 12,402FT) & ASCENT OF KHUNDE PEAK (4,200M / 13,780FT) – OVERNIGHT KHUMJUNG, ~4–5 HOURS
Day 9 : TREK TO PHORTSE (3,950M / 12,959FT) – ~5–6 HOURS
Day 10 : TREK TO PHERICHE (4,270M / 14,009FT) OR DINGBOCHE (4,410M / 14,469FT) – ~5–6 HOURS
Day 11 : DINGBOCHE – ACCLIMATISATION DAY & LEISURE
Day 12 : TREK TO LOBUCHE
Day 13 : TREK TO GORAK SHEP (5,160M / 16,929FT) – ~3 HOURS; ASCENT OF KALA PATAR (5,554M / 18,222FT) – ~3 HOURS
Day 14 : TREK TO EVEREST BASE CAMP (5,300M / 17,400FT) & RETURN TO LOBUCHE (4,940M / 16,207FT)
Day 15 : LOBUCHE – ACTIVE REST & ACCLIMATISATION DAY (4,940M / 16,207FT)
Day 16 : TREK OVER KONGMA LA PASS (5,535M / 18,159FT) TO CHHUKUNG (4,730M / 15,518FT) – ~9 HOURS
Day 17 : CHHUKUNG – FIXED-ROPE SKILLS, REST & OPTIONAL ASCENT OF CHHUKUNG RI (5,550M / 18,209FT) – ~6 HOURS IF HIKING
Day 18 : TREK TO ISLAND PEAK BASE CAMP (4,970M / 16,300FT) – ~3 HOURS
Day 19 : SUMMIT DAY! ISLAND PEAK (6,189M / 20,305FT) & RETURN TO BASE CAMP (4,970M / 16,300FT) – ~10–12 HOURS
Day 20 : CONTINGENCY / REST DAY AT ISLAND PEAK BASE CAMP OR HIKE TO CHHUKUNG (~2–3 HOURS)
Day 21 : TREK TO PANGBOCHE (3,985 M / 13,074 FT) – ~3–5 HOURS
Day 22 : TREK TO NAMCHE BAZAAR – ~5 HOURS
Day 23 : TREK TO LUKLA (2,860M / 9,383FT) – ~7 HOURS
Day 24 : CONTINGENCY DAY – WEATHER & LOGISTICS BUFFER
Day 25 : FLY TO RAMECHHAP (MANTHALI) & DRIVE TO KATHMANDU
Day 26 : FINAL DEPARTURE — KATHMANDU → HOME
Your Himalayan adventure begins at NEW YORK, where you check in for your overnight flight bound for the vibrant city of Kathmandu. The air is filled with anticipation—the quiet roll of suitcases, the glow of departure boards, and that unmistakable thrill of embarking on a journey towards the legendary Himalayas. With boarding passes in hand, you step into a voyage that bridges continents, carrying you from the bustle of NEW YORK to the timeless rhythms of Nepal.
Arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure. After check-in and security, take time to relax, browse duty-free, or enjoy a quiet moment before boarding. Most flights operate with a smooth connection via Doha, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, or Istanbul, ensuring an easy transit on your way to Kathmandu. Keep essential items—passport, travel documents, medications, and a light layer—close to hand in your cabin baggage.
Once onboard, settle into your seat and let the world slip away beneath you. Tonight is for rest, reflection, and the quiet excitement of what lies ahead. As you cross continents, the lights of Europe fade into the vast sweep of Asia. By dawn, if skies are clear, you may even catch a glimpse of the Himalayan range shimmering like a silver crown on the horizon, a prelude to tomorrow’s arrival in Nepal’s capital.
Travel notes: Check-in usually opens 3 hours before departure. Online check-in is recommended to save time. Most routings to Kathmandu include a single short layover at a Middle Eastern or European hub—follow airport screens carefully to find your connection gate.
Comfort tips: Keep hydrated during the long flight and carry a refillable water bottle. A neck pillow, light scarf, and lip balm can make the journey more comfortable.
Luggage: Power banks and lithium batteries must be carried in cabin baggage. Pack a small in-flight day bag with essentials, medications, and a spare T-shirt.
Arrival: You will arrive in Kathmandu on Day 2. Have your arrival card completed and your hotel details ready for immigration clearance.
Touch down in the atmospheric capital of Nepal, where the serrated silhouette of the Himalaya rises beyond a tapestry of pagodas and prayer flags. After clearing formalities, meet our representative outside the arrivals hall for a smooth private transfer to your hotel. Check in, refresh, and take the rest of the day at your own pace.
If energy allows, enjoy a gentle first taste of the city: wander the narrow lanes of Thamel lined with cafés and handicraft shops, pause at the serene Garden of Dreams, or find a rooftop terrace for sunset views over the valley. Prefer something cultural? Consider an easy visit to Kathmandu Durbar Square to admire intricate Newari architecture and the living rhythms of the old city.
Light suggestions for today (leisurely & flexible):
Practical tip: ATMs are widely available in Thamel. If you plan to join any optional experiences during your stay, please pre-book them before arrival to secure availability.
Travel notes:
Practical notes:
Heads-up: If you don’t immediately see our representative, wait by the main exit outside arrivals and call the 24/7 duty number on your voucher. Kathmandu traffic can be busy—transfers may take longer at peak times.
Today is kept flexible for final expedition planning and a thorough kit inspection ahead of your Island Peak (6,189m) climb. After breakfast, meet your tour leader for a detailed route briefing covering the approach via the Khumbu, expected weather, acclimatisation strategy, and summit day timings. We will review safety, team communication, and contingency plans.
Technical gear review & fitting
Hire options & spares: A full range of technical equipment is typically available to hire locally (subject to sizes/stock). Please tell us in advance if you need to reserve boots, crampons or a harness. We will also source any last-minute spares (trekking poles, gas canisters where permitted, etc.).
Paperwork & logistics
Skills refresher (time/venue permitting): basic knots (figure-8, clove hitch, prusik), moving on fixed lines with jumar, crampon technique, and safe descent on a fixed rope with a backup.
Light acclimatisation & free time
Final checklist (quick)
Note: If you plan to hire gear or add optional experiences, please pre-book before arrival where possible so we can secure the correct sizes and availability.
Travel notes:
Practical notes:
Mandatory: The equipment check and skills refresher are compulsory before the climb.
Heads-up: Popular rental sizes can sell out in peak season—pre-book boots/harness/crampons where possible. Verify Lukla baggage limits and pack your summit kit where it’s easy to access during the trek.
Set out from Kathmandu after breakfast for the scenic drive to Ramechhap (Manthali), the staging point for early mountain flights. The road winds through terraced hillsides and river valleys with frequent views of traditional villages. Expect approximately 4–6 hours of driving (traffic, weather and roadworks can extend timings). En route, we’ll pause for tea and comfort stops before arriving in the afternoon.
On arrival, check in to a simple local lodge and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Unpack the essentials, stretch your legs, and soak up the slower pace of life in the mid-hills.
En-route notes
Light suggestions on arrival
Prep for tomorrow (mountain flight staging)
Practical tip: ATMs are limited here—carry enough cash for small purchases. Nights can be cool; have a warm layer ready for the evening.
Travel notes:
Practical notes:
Heads-up: Ramechhap flights are weather-dependent and usually very early. Pack your daypack tonight with passport/permits, warm layer, snacks and water so you’re ready for a quick pre-dawn transfer.
Rise early for the short mountain flight to Lukla, the celebrated gateway to the Khumbu. On a clear morning, the approach offers striking views of serrated ridgelines and deep river valleys. On arrival, meet the porter team, make final pack adjustments, and step onto the trail.
Today’s walk is a gentle introduction to the Everest region, following the Dudh Koshi (Milk River) downstream through pine forests and stone-walled hamlets such as Chheplung and Ghat. Expect prayer wheels, mani stones and the first of the region’s suspension bridges. With a net descent of roughly 250m, the pace is unhurried—ideal for easing into the altitude before reaching Phakding.
Route notes:
Flight & luggage tips:
Today’s quick facts:
Heads-up: Expect yak/mule trains on narrow sections—pause on the mountain side and let them pass. Keep a windproof and gloves accessible; mornings out of Lukla can be chilly.
Set off from Phakding alongside the milky Dudh Koshi, crossing a series of suspension bridges and passing stone-walled hamlets towards Monjo, gateway to Sagarmatha National Park. After the park entry formalities, continue to Jorsalle for a short break before tackling the long, steady climb to Namche Bazaar.
The ascent begins at Larja Dobhan, where you traverse the iconic Hillary Bridge high above the river. From here, the trail zigzags through pine and rhododendron forest; with clear skies you may glimpse Everest from a classic viewpoint en route. Crest the ridge to arrive in the natural amphitheatre of Namche, the vibrant Sherpa capital.
Route notes:
Acclimatisation & health:
Today’s quick facts:
Heads-up: The Hillary Bridge is exposed and can be breezy—secure hats and keep cameras/phones on a strap.
A full day to rest, acclimatise and explore the Sherpa capital. The principle here is “climb high, sleep low”: take a gentle hike to gain a few hundred metres, then return to Namche for the night. Keep a relaxed, steady pace, hydrate well and enjoy the mountain amphitheatre setting.
Suggested acclimatisation walks (choose one):
Easy things to do in town:
Acclimatisation & health tips:
Today’s quick facts:
Prep for tomorrow: Top up water/snacks, lay out dawn layers, charge devices/head torch, and keep permits/passport handy for checkpoints.
Ease out of Namche along a balcony trail above town, then climb steadily past the Syangboche airstrip toward the broad saddle between Khumjung and Khunde. Views open to Ama Dablam, Lhotse and, on clear days, Everest. Settle into stone-walled Khumjung, then head out for an afternoon acclimatisation hike.
Acclimatisation hike: Khunde Peak (viewpoint) ~4,200 m
From Khumjung, follow a well-trodden ridge to the non-technical viewpoint often called Khunde Ri. The path is steady on mixed stone and gravel; expect thinner air and big panoramas over the twin villages and the Khumbu valley. After photos and a short pause, descend the same way to sleep lower in Khumjung.
Route notes:
Health & acclimatisation:
Light things to do in Khumjung (time permitting):
Today’s quick facts:
Heads-up: Ridge winds can be sharp—carry a light shell and warm gloves. Keep a small note for monastery entry if you choose to visit.
Leave Khumjung on a balcony path with big views to Ama Dablam and Thamserku, contouring toward the ridge by Mong La. After a tea stop, descend steeply through pine and rhododendron to riverside Phortse Thanga, cross the water, and climb steady switchbacks to the picturesque village of Phortse, perched high on a spur. This quieter line sees fewer trekkers than the Tengboche route—expect an authentic Sherpa settlement and expansive mountain vistas.
Route notes:
Acclimatisation & health:
On arrival in Phortse (time permitting):
Today’s quick facts:
Heads-up: The drop to Phortse Thanga is steep and can be dusty or slick after rain—tighten pack straps and use poles. Carry small cash for gompa donations if you choose to visit.
Leave Phortse on the classic high balcony path that contours above the Imja valley, a beautiful traverse with big views to Ama Dablam and Thamserku. The trail undulates on a narrow hillside track (short, exposed sections with good footing) before easing into Upper Pangboche, where a tea stop and monastery visit are possible. Beyond Pangboche, continue gently to Shomare where the valley opens and the path forks: left for Pheriche, right for Dingboche.
Option A – Pheriche (4,270 m)
Bear left across a broad, glacial outwash plain to reach the wind-scoured settlement of Pheriche, set beneath dramatic ridges. This is the slightly lower sleeping altitude, often preferred for conservative acclimatisation.
Option B – Dingboche (4,410 m)
Turn right and follow stone-walled fields up the mellow Imja Valley to Dingboche, a sunny village with wide views to Lhotse and Ama Dablam. Expect a little more climb today and a higher sleeping altitude.
Route notes:
Acclimatisation & health:
On arrival (time permitting):
Today’s quick facts:
Heads-up: The balcony path includes short exposed sections—tighten pack straps and use trekking poles for balance. Carry a light shell and sun protection; ridge winds and UV can be strong even on cool days.
A full day set aside to acclimatise at altitude and conserve energy for higher stages ahead. The mantra remains “climb high, sleep low”: take a gentle hike to gain height briefly, then return to sleep in Dingboche (4,410 m / 14,469 ft). Keep your pace easy, hydrate frequently, and enjoy the wide valley views to Lhotse, Ama Dablam and the Imja Khola.
Suggested acclimatisation options (choose one):
Easy things to do in Dingboche:
Health & altitude tips:
Today’s quick facts:
Prep for tomorrow: Top up water/snacks, pre-pack dawn layers (mornings can be crisp), charge devices/head torch, and keep permits/passport handy for checkpoints.
From the high pastures of Dingboche (or Pheriche if you slept lower), set out on a gentle rising traverse toward the terminal moraines of the Khumbu Glacier. The trail trends to Thukla (Dughla) for a tea break, then tackles the day’s key effort: a steady pull onto the Thukla memorial ridge, where cairns honour climbers of the Everest region. Beyond the crest, the path ripples along the lateral moraine with growing views to Pumori and Nuptse, easing at last into the lodge cluster at Lobuche.
Route notes:
Acclimatisation & health:
On arrival in Lobuche (time permitting):
Today’s quick facts:
Heads-up: Please treat the memorials with respect—avoid stepping on cairns or prayer offerings. Trekking poles help on the steeper Thukla ascent and the bouldery moraine beyond; keep to the marked line and off active glacier ice.
From Lobuche, the trail rolls along the lateral moraine above the Khumbu Glacier, weaving over rocky undulations with widening views to Pumori and Nuptse. After a final sandy trough, arrive at the stark, high hamlet of Gorak Shep beneath Kala Patthar. Settle in, take a warm drink, and get ready for the afternoon ascent of this iconic viewpoint.
Kala Patthar ascent (~5,554 m)
A steep, steady climb on a well-trodden ridge of gravel and stone steps. Air is thin and winds can gust—keep a slow, rhythmic pace and pause briefly at natural rock benches. The summit delivers a close-up panorama of the Everest massif (Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse) and sweeping views over the fractured ice of the Khumbu Glacier—magical near sunset (carry a head torch for the return) or at first light tomorrow if energy or weather suggest delaying.
Route notes:
Acclimatisation & safety:
Today’s quick facts:
Heads-up: Winds on the ridge can be sharp—secure hats and camera/phone straps. Stay on the marked moraine path and off active glacier ice. If aiming for sunset, start early enough to avoid a rushed descent.
From Gorak Shep, trace the rim of the Khumbu Glacier on a rolling, rocky path to the famed moraine of Everest Base Camp. The final approach undulates over gravel and boulder fields with cairns marking the way. At Base Camp, take time for photos by the classic marker stones and prayer flags before retracing your steps to Gorak Shep and continuing down-valley to Lobuche for the night.
Route notes:
Safety & acclimatisation:
Practical tips:
Today’s quick facts:
Heads-up: Respect expedition privacy at EBC—enter camp areas only by invitation. Winds can rise quickly on the moraine; secure hats and camera/phone straps.
After yesterday’s big effort, today is deliberately easy to consolidate your acclimatisation and recover at altitude. Keep moving gently, hydrate well, and enjoy the stark high-alpine scenery around Lobuche.
Light acclimatisation options (choose one):
Easy things to do in Lobuche:
Health & altitude tips:
Today’s quick facts:
Prep for tomorrow: Confirm the next stage with your leader, pre-pack layers and snacks, keep permits/passport handy, and lay out poles, head torch and water for an efficient start.
A big alpine link day between the Khumbu and Imja valleys via the prayer-flagged Kongma La. Set out pre-dawn from Lobuche (4,940 m), climbing steadily over moraine and glacial rubble toward the pass. After skirting or crossing sections of the Khumbu Glacier, the trail steepens on scree and stone steps to the col, where vast views sweep across Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam and the Imja valley. From the saddle, descend carefully on loose gravel past turquoise tarns to the valley floor, then follow a gentler path via Bibre into Chhukung for a well-earned rest.
Route notes:
Safety & pacing:
Recommended kit to carry today:
Contingency: In adverse weather or if energy is low, your leader may switch to a lower route/day split (e.g., via Dingboche) for safety.
Today’s quick facts:
Heads-up: Sections of the route may cross glacial debris—step carefully between boulders, keep to the established line, and avoid fresh glacier ice. Winds funnel over the col; secure hats and loose items before the final climb.
Use today to consolidate technique and acclimatisation ahead of Island Peak. After breakfast, join your guide for a focused ropes & glacier skills session around Chhukung, then enjoy a relaxed afternoon—or take an optional acclimatisation hike up Chhukung Ri if energy and weather are favourable.
Morning skills session (fixed ropes & movement):
Optional acclimatisation hike: Chhukung Ri (5,550 m / 18,209 ft) — ~4–6 hrs return
A steep, sustained ridge on gravel and stone steps with occasional loose scree. Views open to Lhotse, Ama Dablam and the Imja Glacier/Lake. Start early, keep a steady rhythm, and agree a firm turn-around time. If wind or fatigue builds, turning at the lower shoulder (~5,100–5,300 m) still delivers superb panoramas—then sleep low back in Chhukung.
Route & safety notes:
Gear checklist for today:
Hire & logistics: Technical equipment can usually be hired locally (subject to sizes/stock; optional extra). Pre-book where possible and label all kit. Pack summit-day essentials in your daypack; keep spares dry in a liner/dry bag.
Today’s quick facts:
Practical tip: Tape any hotspot areas before hiking, pre-fill bottles/thermos, and lay out tomorrow’s layers for a smooth alpine start.
Mandatory: The skills session is compulsory before the climb.
Leave Chhukung (4,730 m) after breakfast for a short but spectacular hike up the Imja Valley to Island Peak Base Camp (locally Pareshaya Gyab). The trail trends gently uphill across alpine pasture and moraine benches with views to Ama Dablam, Lhotse and the Imja Glacier. Porters/yaks will carry group camping and climbing loads; keep your warm layers, water and essentials in your daypack.
Route notes:
Base Camp routine:
Summit-day pack checklist (prepare this afternoon):
Health, safety & environment:
Today’s quick facts:
Heads-up: Afternoon winds can be sharp at Base Camp—secure tent zips and keep summit layers inside your sleeping bag to stay warm and dry overnight.
Mandatory: Final kit check and rope practice before lights out.
Alpine start from Island Peak Base Camp in the small hours. After hot drinks and a final kit check, set out by head torch on a moraine path toward the high basin. You’ll pass the usual crampon point before first light, fit crampons and rope up as briefed. The route then weaves across glacial benches with crevasse zones protected by fixed lines; depending on season, short ladders, snow bridges or hand-lines may be in place.
Key sections (typically encountered):
Descent:
Safety, pacing & cut-offs:
Summit-day personal kit (carry on you):
Environmental & etiquette notes:
Today’s quick facts:
Heads-up: Stash dry socks and a warm layer in your tent for rapid post-climb recovery. Keep batteries warm in an inner pocket to extend life in the cold.
Mandatory: Helmet on for all glaciated terrain; always maintain at least one secure attachment on fixed lines.
This day is deliberately flexible. If yesterday’s summit was delayed by weather, conditions, or team health, use today as a contingency window for another attempt. If you summited and the team is feeling good, take a gentle descent back to Chhukung (4,730 m / 15,518 ft) to sleep lower and recover.
Option A – Contingency / Rest at Base Camp (4,970 m / 16,300 ft)
Option B – Move to Chhukung (~2–3 hours, −240 m net)
Recovery & gear notes:
Today’s quick facts:
Tip: Whether you climb or rest, lay out clothing and essentials for tomorrow so the morning is calm and efficient.
Descend from the high Imja Valley toward warmer air and thicker oxygen. Set out from Chhukung (4,730 m) (or from Island Peak Base Camp 4,970 m if you remained there), easing down through Dingboche and the yak pastures around Shomare before the final gentle approach to the historic Sherpa village of Pangboche above the Imja Khola.
Route notes:
In Pangboche (time permitting):
Health & recovery:
Today’s quick facts:
Heads-up: In Pangboche, visits are to Pangboche Gompa (not Tengboche). Dress modestly, remove shoes/hats where signed, walk clockwise around chortens and mani walls, ask before taking photos, and consider a small donation.
Leave Pangboche (3,985 m) on an easy downward trail through yak pastures towards Debuche, with fine morning views of Ama Dablam. A short rise brings the historic Tengboche Monastery (optional brief visit), then the path plunges through fir and rhododendron forest on stone steps to the river at Phunki Tenga. Cross the suspension bridge and climb steady switchbacks to Kyangjuma, where the ridge track contours pleasantly above the Dudh Koshi back into the amphitheatre of Namche Bazaar (3,440 m).
Route notes:
Health & comfort:
In Namche (time permitting):
Today’s quick facts:
Heads-up: If you visit Tengboche Monastery, dress modestly and carry small cash for donations; remove hats and follow posted guidance inside the complex.
Bid farewell to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) and begin the long scenic descent to Lukla. The trail winds down through pine and rhododendron forest to the Hillary Bridge, then follows the Dudh Koshi past Jorsalle and the park gate at Monjo. Continue through stone-walled hamlets—Benkar, Phakding and Ghat—before the final steady climb back up to Lukla’s airstrip ridge.
Route notes:
Health & pacing:
On arrival in Lukla:
Today’s quick facts:
Heads-up: Afternoon flights can be weather-dependent. Keep essentials (warm layer, snacks, water, documents) in your daypack in case of schedule shifts.
This flexible day is held in reserve to absorb weather delays—especially for the Lukla ⇄ Ramechhap (Manthali) mountain flights—or to provide extra rest and recovery after the summit and long trekking days. Your leader will confirm plans the evening before based on the latest conditions.
If you are still in Lukla
If you’ve already flown and reached Kathmandu
If you are in Namche or en route
Health & admin
Today’s quick facts
Heads-up: Mountain flights are highly weather-dependent. Keep essentials (warm layer, snacks, water, documents) in your daypack and be ready to move when a window opens.
Check in early at Lukla for the short mountain flight to Ramechhap (Manthali). On a clear morning, the hop offers dramatic views over ridgelines and the Dudh Koshi valley. On landing, meet your vehicle and continue by road through the mid-hills and river valleys back to Kathmandu, arriving by late afternoon or early evening depending on traffic and road conditions.
Flight & luggage notes:
Drive Ramechhap → Kathmandu:
On arrival in Kathmandu:
Today’s quick facts:
Heads-up: Keep a small pouch accessible with passport, permits, snacks, water and hand sanitiser so airport and road transitions remain smooth. Pack a warm layer in your daypack—aircraft cabins and early mornings can be chilly.
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at the hotel if time permits, then meet your driver for your airport transfer to Kathmandu (KTM). Allow generous time for city traffic and international check-in. Safe journey and dhanyabad!
Heads-up:
Practical notes:
Today’s quick facts
Tip: Pack a light layer for cool aircraft cabins and keep medications in your carry-on.
| Start Date | End Date | Price | Note | AVAILABILITY | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sat, 8 Nov, 25 | Wed, 3 Dec, 25 | $9403 | GUARANTEED | Book Now | |
| Sat, 14 Mar, 26 | Wed, 8 Apr, 26 | $9403 | GUARANTEED | Book Now | |
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| Sat, 10 Oct, 26 | Wed, 4 Nov, 26 | $9403 | GUARANTEED | Book Now | |
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| Mon, 1 Nov, 27 | Fri, 26 Nov, 27 | $10747 | GUARANTEED | Book Now |
A blend of a comfortable city hotel, best-available teahouse lodges on the trail, and a fully serviced tented camp at Island Peak Base Camp. Properties may vary by date; where a featured option is unavailable, a similar standard will be confirmed.
| Place | Accommodation |
| Kathmandu | Hotel Norbulinka (or similar) |
| Ramechhap / Manthali | Simple lodge (best available) |
| Phakding | Teahouse lodge (best available) |
| Namche Bazaar | Teahouse lodge (central location) |
| Khumjung | Village teahouse (best available) |
| Phortse | Family-run teahouse |
| Dingboche / Pheriche | High-altitude teahouse (best available) |
| Lobuche | High-altitude teahouse (best available) |
| Gorak Shep | Teahouse at glacier rim |
| Chhukung | Teahouse (Imja Valley) |
| Island Peak Base Camp | Tented camp (sleeping & dining tents, kitchen team) |
| Pangboche | Teahouse (best available) |
| Lukla | Teahouse near airstrip |
Note: Exact lodges are allocated close to departure based on availability and group size; if a named hotel/lodge is full, a property of similar standard will be provided.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Trip grade & fitness
Challenging high-altitude trek with a non-technical alpine summit (fixed ropes, crampons). Daily trekking 3–9 hours; one very long summit day. Solid hill fitness required and comfort with heights/exposure.
Altitude & acclimatisation
Maximum altitude 6,189m (Island Peak). Itinerary follows “climb high, sleep low” with planned rest days. Your leader monitors symptoms; you must report headache, nausea, dizziness or unusual fatigue immediately. Descent is the primary treatment for AMS.
Permits & regulations
Sagarmatha National Park, local Khumbu permits and Island Peak climbing permit included. Carry passport and permits at all checkpoints.
Flights & delays
Most Everest-region flights operate via Ramechhap (Manthali). Weather can disrupt schedules; a contingency day is built in, but additional delays are possible.
Baggage & porterage
Typical mountain-flight allowance ~10 kg checked + 5 kg hand (subject to airline policy). Trek duffel carried by porters (weight limit applies); you carry a daypack with water, layers and valuables.
Equipment
Personal technical kit required for the climb (mountaineering boots, crampons, harness, helmet, jumar/ascender, belay device, locking carabiners, slings, prusiks, ice axe, goggles). Hire is available on request; pre-book sizes early. A four-season sleeping bag (to about –20 °C) recommended.
Insurance
Mandatory comprehensive cover for trekking/climbing to at least 6,200m including helicopter evacuation and medical treatment.
Water, food & hygiene
Full board on the trek and at Base Camp. Use treated/boiled water (bring purification tablets/filter as a backup). Hand hygiene reduces illness risk at altitude.
Season & weather
Best windows: Mar–May and Oct–Nov. Expect cold mornings/evenings above 4,000m and wind on passes/summit.
Responsible & cultural travel
Leave No Trace principles; respect mani walls (pass left) and spin prayer wheels clockwise; yield to yak/mule trains from the mountain side; modest dress in monasteries.
Tipping & local costs
Tips/gratuities for trek, climbing and lodge staff are customary (guidelines provided in pre-departure notes). Budget for showers, charging, Wi-Fi and personal snacks on the trail.
SAFETY, RISK & INSURANCE – PLEASE READ
Knowledge & Acceptance of Risk
Trekking and climbing in the Himalaya involves inherent hazards: high altitude (risk of AMS/HAPE/HACE), cold, wind and rapid weather change; rough, steep and exposed terrain; rock/icefall and crevasses; interaction with livestock/pack animals; remote locations with limited medical facilities; and flight/road disruption from weather or geohazards. By booking, you confirm you understand and accept these risks and will follow guide instructions at all times.
Domestic Flights, Safety & the EU Air Safety List (Nepal)
Everest-region flights typically operate on short take-off/landing (STOL) aircraft between Ramechhap (Manthali) and Lukla by day and under visual conditions. Weather, visibility and airfield constraints can cause delays, diversions or cancellations. The EU Air Safety List currently includes all airlines certified in Nepal, which means they are banned from operating in EU airspace; this does not prohibit domestic operations within Nepal. We use established local carriers, schedule early flights where possible, and may switch to overland/heli alternatives if required. Final safety decisions rest with the pilots and Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN).
Insurance – Mandatory
Comprehensive travel insurance is compulsory. Your policy must explicitly cover: trekking and mountaineering to at least 6,200 m with use of fixed ropes and crampons; helicopter evacuation and medical treatment/repatriation; trip interruption/delay (including Lukla/Ramechhap flight disruption); and baggage/equipment. Declare pre-existing conditions and carry your insurer’s 24/7 assistance details. We may request proof of cover before departure and reserve the right to decline participation without adequate insurance.
Participant Declaration & Risk Waiver (summary)
By joining you agree that, to the extent permitted by law:
Important: This summary supports (but does not replace) our full Booking Conditions and Assumption of Risk & Liability Waiver, which you will be asked to read and sign before travel.
Medical Screening & Emergency Response
Tell us about any medical conditions/medications before departure. On trek, alert your guide promptly to symptoms such as persistent headache, nausea, dizziness, unusual fatigue or cough. Descent is the primary treatment for altitude illness; our team may require you to descend or leave the itinerary for your safety. Helicopter evacuation is weather/availability/regulation dependent and cannot be guaranteed.
Operational Notes
Seasonal weather, flying conditions and local regulations may necessitate changes to flight routings (e.g., KTM↔Ramechhap transfers), daily schedules or overnight locations. Where possible we build in a contingency day; additional costs arising from force majeure are your responsibility unless otherwise stated in your booking.
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