If it’s a clear day when you are flying into Kathmandu, then your tour begins right from the skies itself. The sights from the windows of our jet shows us glimmering snow-capped mountain peaks spread out down below us, giving us the first thrills of our just begun vacation, sparking off a whole reaction of unforgettable experiences that stay with us for some time to come.

As soon as your plane hits the tarmac of Tribhuwan International Airport, Mountain Sherpa Trekking and Expdetitions office representative and driver will be on standby to meet and greet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel. The rep will help you check into your designated hotel, and after going to our rooms and refreshing ourselves we will be briefed about our daily activities. The rest of your time is free to move around the neighborhood and get familiar with your surroundings. In the evening we will meet our senior trek guide who will brief the group about details related to our trek. Your first overnight in the ancient city of temples, probably the most in the world. Breakfast

After a good night’s sleep and enjoying a hearty b/fast, we proceed for our tour of Basantapur Durbar Square. Recorded by UNESCO as a cultural World Heritage site, Kathmandu Durbar Square is a bunch of medieval temples, palaces, courtyards and streets that date back to the 12th and 18th centuries. within this square we will find Hanumandhoka Palace Museum, Taleju Temple, Kumari Ghar (House of the Living Goddess), Kasthamandap and other temples and buildings as old as the city itself; from here we head for a tour of the famous Boudhanath Stupa {said to be the largest in the world) and a major centre of Tibetan culture in Kathmandu. The stupa is designed to be like a giant mandala (a representation of the Buddhist cosmos).

We next drive down to Swayambhunath {popularly known as Monkey Temple} “Swayambhu” means “self-created” and refers to the myth that the hill sprung up suddenly from a great lake that once covered Kathmandu Valley. Our next destination is Pashupatinath Temple. This temple is dedicated to Hindu deity Lord Shiva and is said to be the most holy Hindu shrine in Nepal. Hereabouts we see a cremation ritual of Hindus at ‘Aryaghat’, the cremation area of the temple. This cremation site is used for the once royal family of Nepal and also for the simple Nepalese people who live within the country. We then wrap up our Heritage tour with a trip to Patan which is one of the three medieval cities in Kathmandu and a destination for connoisseurs of great arts. We take a tour of the Patan Durbar Square - a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in the square is the Patan Museum (originally a Malla palace), Krishna Mandir- a stone temple of Lord Krishna with its 21 spires and art that displays scenes from the Mahabharata and Ramayana epics, this includes the Royal Bath or 'Tushahity' and the nearby Hindu and Buddhist temples. We return back to our hotel, refresh, do some shopping for our trek the next day, have an early supper and retire to bed, most probably. Breakfast

Today we take an early morning drive to Jiri, about 187 km north-east of Kathmandu. Since, we would be traveling on the mountain roads, it takes around 6-7 hrs to reach Jiri. From Jiri, we continue driving to Bhandar, our trek start point. Although still a single lane road, the road conditions have improved a lot nowadays than what it used to be till some years ago. Enjoy the views of Kosi River and panoramic views of the eastern Himalaya including Ganesh Himal, Langtang Lirung and Dorje Lakpa. Overnight at Bhandar – B. L. D

We soon descend the trail from Bhandar through deep forests crossing a few streams and passing the small settlements of Dokharpa and Baranda. We climb through the forests winding down to the Surma Khola. And then continue to Likhu Khola Valley. We again climb the ridge going up to the small settlement of Kenja. Another steep ascent to Chimbu and continuing further finally brings us to the village of Sete. We crash out here in our lodge for the night. B. L. D

After b/fast, we do an uphill climb to Lamjura La through forests of pine, magnolia, maple, birch and rhododendrons. We then pass by the villages of Dagchu and Goyem. Lamjura La pass at 3530 meters, the highest point between Jiri and Namche Bazar, offers a great view of the surrounding green mountains. Descend down the pass to Tragdobuk and Junbesi. We spend our afternoon here exploring the village and the way of life of its inhabitants. Overnight at Junbesi – B. L. D

We now cross the stream beyond Junbesi climb up the forest slope and after an hour's trek, the compelling views of the Himalaya Mountains appears before our eyes. The mountains that are visible include Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, Thamserku, Mera Peak, and many other high mountains. This is the first view we get of Everest on this trek, although the lower peaks look closer and higher than the distant 8,000er mountains. Continue the trail to Salung and descend to Ringmo Khola. Ascend to Ringmo, cross the Trakshindo La pass and descend to Trashingdo. After another hour's descent through conifer and rhododendron forests, and terraced fields, we finally arrive at Nunthala. Overnight at Nunthala – B. L. D

We next descend down the trail to the Dudh Koshi River. We follow the Dudh Koshi River as we head upwards to Khumbu. Cross the bridge, climb to Jubing and continue straight to Churkha. Climb the trail eastwards to reach Kharikhola and descend to cross a suspension bridge. Another steep climb finally takes us to Bupsa. Overnight at Bupsa in our lodge – B. L. D

Today our trek starts with a gentle climb, passing the village of Kharte and continues on through forests inhabited by monkeys. From this part of the trek we can admire views of Cho Oyu (8153m). We keep climbing the ridge till we reach the teashop on Khari La pass at 2840m. From the pass, the trail descends into the deep canyon of Puiyan Khola.

After crossing bridge we reach the small settlement of Puiyan (2770m). The trail climbs up and down for about an hour after Puiyan to a ridge that offers a good view of the Khumbu region and then descends about 500m towards Surke (2290m). Continuing our trail upwards again, we climb through a jumble of boulders, passing some wonderful mani walls until we reach Chablung at (2700m). Overnight at our teahouse lodge – B. L. D

Walking through a beautiful pine forest, the track leads us along the Dudh Koshi River through many suspension bridges, one of which is the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge. First, we catch superb scenes of the glistening Mt. Thamserku (6618m). Through the settlement of Benkar, Chumoa, Monjo, we come to the check post and entrance to Sagarmatha National Park. We pass through the last village of Jorsale before reaching Namche Bazaar. The trail climbs through the forests and bridges until we reach the confluence of the Dudh Koshi and Bhote Koshi rivers. After a final steep ascent of about two hours we get first sight of Mt. Everest peering over the Lhotse-Nuptse ridge. At this juncture, we stop at Chautara to admire the views. We still need to hike about 1.5 hours to reach Namche Bazaar, a gateway to Mt. Everest and the main trading centre of this region. Overnight in Namche [Las Vegas of the Khumbu] – B. L. D

If we trek a few hundred vertical feet during the day, it will help us to properly acclimatize. We visit the Tourist Visitor Center near the Sagarmatha National Park headquarters and observe an assortment of things related to the first Everest ascenders, Sherpa culture and learn about the various plant and animal life of the Everest region. We also take an interesting side trip up to Khumjung and climb up to the famous airstrip at Syangboche. Just above the airstrip is the Everest View Hotel, a Japanese scheme to build a deluxe hotel with great views of the highest mountains on Earth. The Khumjung valley surrounded by the snowy peaks of Kongde and Thamserku and the sacred peak of Khumbila hosts a well known monastery that houses a yeti scalp. We visit Hillary School which is at the same site. After having lunch and spending some time in Syangboche, we walk back down to Namche Bazzar. Overnight in Namche Bazaar – B. L. D

After enjoying our breakfast in Namche, we hit the trail towards Tengboche enjoying superb views of Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam and close up views of Thamserku. Our trek follows on the gradual trail with some ups and downs overlooking magnificent views of the great Himalaya. Along the way we can spot wild fauna like pheasant, musk deer, or a herd of Himalayan Thar. The trail goes gradually down up to Kayangjuma. The path eventually reaches Sanasa which is the major trail junction to Gokyo valley and Everest Base Camp. The track then follows through the pine forests and after we cross the prayer flags festooned bridge over Dudh Koshi River, we reach Phunki Thenga, a small settlement with a couple of teahouses and a small army post amidst the alpine woods. After having a relaxed lunch at Phunki Thenga we then have a little tough climb steep up through the pine forests while before we reach Tengboche. Tengboche is a great place for close up views of Ama-Dablam, Nuptse, and Everest and the biggest Buddhist Monastery in Khumbu region is found herer. Overnight stay at lodge in Tengboche – B. L. D

From Tengboche, the trail climbs and contours around the west side of the Imja Khola valley, providing outstanding views of Ama Dablam, the Nuptse-Lhotse wall and Everest. We enter Pangboche on the high trail and after lunch visit the monastery which has relics said to be the skull and hand of a yeti. From Pangboche we walk through alpine meadows and pass beneath the towering Ama Dablam to Dingboche. An exciting village to spend the night - B. L. D

It’s a pretty cool hike as we leave Dingboche through stone walled fields and alpine landscape. We take the trail from Dingboche through Imja Khola valley to land laden by glacier moraines amidst towering formidable mountains. We walk relaxed as our schedule for today is only 3 - 4 hours trek. While walking through the valley, Lhotse towers on our left and Ama Dablam on our right. After walking about 3 km, we reach at yak herdman's place called Bibre. Straight ahead, beyond a terminal moraine wall, soars the Island peak (Imja Tse), a most popular trekking peak. The pyramidal Imja Tse looks awesome with its step rock and-icy south face. The trail ahead is intersected by icy streams. We reach Chhukung in about half an hour from Bibre. There are glaciers and massive snowy mountains all around the place. We might choose to hike to the rocky knoll of Chhukung Ri which offers stunning views of Lhotse, Island Peak, Ama Dablam, Makalu and several others including Baruntse. We then retrace our trail back to Dingboche for the night. B. L. D

At the break of dawn, we start from Dingboche as we have to conquer the first highest pass of the trip today. We carry plenty of water and some snacks and a packed lunch as there is no tea shops on the way. We really enjoy the isolation of the area and supreme nature!! We can select to go via any of the possible trails - either taking a climb over the hill northwest of Chhukung over the moraine of he Nuptse Glacier or we might walk back down the valley to Bibre and follow a high trail above the Niyang Khola. Just after some hiking there are great views of Island peak valley and jagged ridge of Amphu Lapcha. Ascending along the east side of Niyang Khola valley, we turn west and walk through the slipshod stony trial. We enter a wide basin dotted with small frozen lakes. The trail rises over loose scree gaining the Kongma La after about five hours we leave Chhukung. Upon reaching the top, we encounter cairn wrapped in prayer flags, identities of the pass. Behind us is the landscape of icy lakes ahead down of which is the Khumbu Glacier. The final descent is the most difficult stage of the trek today. Upon climbing the moraine on the far side, the trail turns north through Khumbu Glacier which takes us to the Khangmala B. C. It’s an adventurous overnight in cosy tents. B. L. D

The trail rises over loose scree gaining the Khangma La; after about five hours we leave Chhukung. Upon reaching the top, we encounter cairns bound in prayer flags, marks of the pass. Behind us is the landscape of icy lakes ahead down of which is the Khumbu Glacier. The final descent is the most difficult stage of the trek today. After passing some teahouses on our way to Lobuche, we climb higher onto the terminal moraine of the Khumbu glacier, passing a row of stone monuments built in memory of Sherpas who have died on mountaineering expeditions to Mt Everest. From here the trail drops and follows the west side of the valley to Lobuche. The sunset on Nuptse from here is somewhat stunning. Upon climbing the moraine on the far side, the trail turns north through Khumbu Glacier which takes us to Lobuche for the night. B. L. D

A real early start is required to reach the Everest Base Camp. It takes several hours as the trail weaves its way through ice pinnacles and past the crevasses of the Khumbu Glacier. After a brief lunch and rest, we take the trail to Everest Base Camp through the once vast Gorak Shep Lake.

Continuing straight ahead, we come through the Indian army mountaineers' memorials. Only upon reaching the Everest Base Camp do we really appreciate the Everest climbers who brave the risky route through the Khumbu icefall. Mountaineer's tents stand out in bright colors against the monotony of gray surroundings (especially in the spring). Nuptse, Khumbuste and Pumori are the mountains we can view from the base camp. On the return leg, we can take a higher route to get a grand view of the Khumbu icefall and the route to the South Col. We return to Gorakshep for a restful night. B. L. D

Today is the pinnacle point of our trip. We start early in the morning after some cuppers to catch the dramatic views from Kalapattar witnessing the first light of day shining on Mt. Everest. However, we need to get prepared for an early morning, dark and cold temperature of approx (-10 to -14 C) departure beforehand. Further, there is always the potential for chilly winds which are quite common. Familiar peaks such as Lingtren, Khumbutse, Changtse tower to the east even as Everest begins to reveal itself emerging between the west shoulder crest and Nuptse. During the ascent to Kalapattar we can pause to catch our breath at several terrific view points to snap pictures. After several hours of ascent, we will peak out at Kala Patthar. From this juncture, we scramble to climb the rocky outcrop near to the summit marked by cairns and prayer flags. As we reach the top, we sit on the Kalapattar where our eyes focus taking in the mind-boggling Himalayan Panorama, wandering from one mighty massif to another. We click as many pictures as we can and take in views with our mind's eye to last for a lifetime. From here we take the path to Dzongla; After crossing a stream we come through a fork and later curving round to the wide gravelly river bed of the stream. As it flows southwestward, the trail runs across it and climbs the ridge ahead. From the grassy ridge ahead, as the trail runs across to southeast from where we can see soaring heights of Ama Dablam and Kangtega-Thamserku while Taboche looms highly ahead. Pheriche village is visible down in the distance. We will also have visibility of a hillock in Chukpi Lhara and its memorials and the lodges of Dugla. As the ridge veers northward, the vast Chola Lake spreads below Mt. Cholatse. The lake stays with us over a long stretch until we descend to a wide basin. The trail climbs up a spur and descends steeply to another broad basin. After an hour walk transverse from the basin and shortly after crossing a wobbly bridge, we reach Dzongla. We spend the night in one of the local lodges at Dzongla (only very basic lodges are available hereabouts). B. L. D

We get up early in the morning to get out of our lodge to be greeted by the mesmerizing sight of Cholatse looming over. Today is going to be one of the gritty days of our trip. The walk begins as we transverse through a spur extending westward from Dzongla. The path descends to a basin across which meanders a murmuring stream crusted with ice at places. In about an hour, we reach the top of the basin readying for the triumph on ChoLa. As we gain height, the view back gets increasingly more captivating; the Chola Lake begins to appear and the Ama Dablam in its pyramidal manifestation presides over a range of mountains on the south as Cholatse soars on the west. Climbing the incline is not easy; it is steep, but made worse by boulders over some of which we will have to scramble. We need to be alert as rocks can be glazed by ice. The final climb to the ChoLa can be a little tricky as the trail curves round the bergschrund. Upon reaching the top, we see prayer flags, strung across cairns, flapping in the strong wind. Scenery of imposing peaks in all directions is breathtaking. Although long, the path leading down to Dragnak can be easily made out from the pass because it is just decent but can be hazardous if rocks are glazed by ice, a bit of cautiousness is needed. We reach Dragnak, a rather more considerable hamlet with a small village. Stepping out of the settlement, we are greeted by fabulous mountain views. The trail brings us to the Ngozumpa glacier edge after short walk, which is longest glacier in Nepal. Reaching the other side of the glacier, we get views of the second of the Gokyo lakes on the series of six lakes. A short distance away is the third Gokyo Lake. On the edge of this lake stands the Gokyo Village but before this, we finally give rest to our weary bodies in Dragnak for the night. B. L. D

After enjoying blissful night of rest, we leave Dragnak and head for the lakes at Gokyo. We follow a very scenic path to Pangka and then descend slightly, following one of the melting rivers which flow down the west side of the Ngozumpa Glacier. We climb a steep rocky incline into the valley by the side of the glacier, passing the first of the holy lakes. We soon arrive at the second lake, crossing the path which heads across the glacier to Cho La - our route to Thame and Namche, later in the trek. The third lake is known as Dudh Pokhari (Milk Lake) and on its eastern shore is the settlement of Gokyo. Walking by the side of the lake, the scenery is splendid with the summits of Cho Oyu and Gyachung Kang reflected in its emerald green waters. Overnight by the side of the Gokyo lakes - B. L. D

Heady Gokyo Ri looms above the village on the northern edge of the lake. We leave camp just after first light, following a steep path up the hillside. As we climb, the summits of Everest, Lhotse and Makalu slowly come into view and the sight from the summit of Gokyo Ri itself, is said to be one of the premium sights to behold in the Everest region - some say it is even better than that from Kala Pattar. After lunch it is a short walk back to Gokyo for our overnight. B. L. D

Its important that we make a break at dawn today as we have to trace our trail up to Lunde after conquering of Renjo La. As there is no alternative to Lunde for overnight today, we need to start early. Down from the Gokyo Valley, we leave the main trail and turn to Renjo La trail by Dudh Pokhari. After about 3 hours, we gain the Renjo La where a dazzling vista awaits. The Everest itself, Lhotse, Cholatse and Taboche can be seen shining in the sun. Views from Renjo La are much like that from Gokyo Ri with third Gokyo Lake and Gokyo Village beneath the gray smear of Ngozumpa Glacier. Continuing on from the pass, the trail winds down a stone staircase and then scrambles over loose scree to reach the south bank of a small lake called the Angladumba Tsho. The presence of ice on the trail while descending down can make our descent a bit dangerous. Along the way we see Relama Tsho and Renjo Lake. However, we walk down through narrow valley clogged with giant boulders to Lunde where there is a support Lodge but it can be closed often. If this turns out to be the case, We walk further for another hour from Lunde to get to Marlung on the east bank of the Bhote Kosi. Overnight at Lunde or Marlung - B. L. D

From Lunde, the route turns west and the trail is almost level as we head up the Bhote Kosi Valley, once a popular trading route into Tibet. Along the way we pass many prayer flags and mani stones, all pinpointing to the Tibetan Buddhist culture of this area. After descending to the Bhote Kosi the trail climbs steeply to Thame. From here there are good views of the peaks of Teng Kangpoche and Kwangde. To the north is the Nangpa La, the pass leading to Tibet. Thame Gompa is situated above the village overlooking the valley and is the site for the famous spring celebrations of the Mani Rimdu festival. We crash out in Thame for the night. B. L. D

The trail descends steeply downward so we need to walk slowly and under control as our wobbling legs continuously battle the rocky terrain. After crossing the suspension bridges over the fast flowing Dudh Koshi and its tributaries the trail becomes more level and natural. By today we start to get warmed up by the light breeze. Any remaining sore throats and colds will be gone by today as we pass through this delightful mountain air. Although we are traveling the same route down, we feel completely different views. We snap a combo of open plains, rhododendron and pine forests, and in the distance snow covered peaks. We walk through the Sherpa villages' observing their notable faith in Buddhism and culture of prayer stones and prayers flag while we walk through the villages. Overnight in bustling Namche where it’s all happening. B. L. D

The trail from Namche Bazar clings to the steep wooded slope beyond Kyangjuma, winding through several bends. It’s interesting to lookout for wildlife such as mountain goats, snow leopards and colourful pheasants while we pass through the forest by the trail. A steep descent from Namche Hill leads to the suspension bridge crossing the Dudh Kosi river near the confluence of the Dhudh Koshi and the Bhote Koshi Rivers. We cross the Dudh Koshi River twice at separate locations before reaching Monjo. Upon this juncture, we are out of the Sagarmatha National Park after exiting from its official entrance near Monjo and finally reach Monjo Village. Monjo is comparatively a quieter place to stay than Namche and it also means our porters have a less strenuous walk back to Lukla next day. Overnight in the docile village of Monjo – B. L. D

Today, we begin to get warmed up by the light cool breeze. Although we are traveling the same route down, we enjoy completely different views. We snap a mixture of open plains, rhododendron and pine forests, and in the distance snow covered peaks. We take time and walk at our own pace today as this is the last day of our trek. We experience the Sherpa villages' impressive faith in Buddhism and culture of prayer stones and prayer flags while we walk through the villages. Upon arrival in Lukla, we have plenty of time to relax, stretch those aching legs, and recall the experiences of the last couple of days. We experience the culmination of a fantastic trek on a happy note with everyone back safe and sound with truly happy faces! Upon arrival in Lukla, we stroll around while our leader will re-confirm our flight ticket. In the evening, we enjoy last dinner with our crew and make it a party night which calls for a celebration. Overnight at our Lodge - B. L. D

Today, after a hale and hearty b/fast, we fly back to Kathmandu after our long mountain journey. The early morning flight drops us in Kathmandu. We can rest and relax throughout the day at our hotel. If interested, we could buy some gifts to take home from Nepal for loved ones and friends and relatives; we can visit some nearby shops or venture out in Thamel for typical Nepalese goods. This short excursion either can be assisted by Mountain Sherpa’s guides or we can do it ourselves too. If we want to explore any other areas in Kathmandu, we have to manage time for this today as well! At eventide, we will attend an exciting celebration dinner together for successfully completing our trek to the whole of EVEREST hosted by Mountain Sherpa Treks and Expeditions! Overnight in Kathmandu, the valley of the gods, they say (B, D)

This is more or less a contingency day we keep in hand in the event of a delay in flights from Lukla to Kathmandu, which sometimes happens; so, if this doesn’t happen which is good and fortunate, then it’s just great. It’s your free day to do whatever you wish, at your cool pace that suits your convenience. You could simply use this day for some shopping of souvenirs or penning a few postcards to the loved ones at home. It’s your day anyways. Breakfast or we can do it ourselves too. If we want to explore any other areas in Kathmandu, we have to manage time for this today as well! At eventide, we will attend an exciting celebration dinner together for successfully completing our trek to the whole of EVEREST hosted by Mountain Sherpa Trekking and Expeditions! Overnight in Kathmandu, the valley of the gods, they say (B, D)

After b/fast, our rep and office vehicle will be on standby at our hotel to transfer us to the airport for our connecting flight home. Serving you was a wonderful joy and pleasure, we at Mountain Sherpa Trekswill cherish the bonds of our relationship created over the time you spent with us and we thank you for choosing us as your travel partner and for visiting this amazing country Nepal. We are sure that trekking in this beautiful region of the Khumbu [Everest region] will give you lifetime memories of a vacation well enjoyed. Ciao friends! Till we meet again. Breakfast

Please Note:that although we try to follow the itinerary given above, at times local trail or weather conditions may necessitate slight changes if necessary. The trekking itinerary may also vary slightly depending on our trekkers' acclimatization rates. This adventure goes into wild territory above the timberline, so we seek to request maximum flexibility if and when required for the safety of your trip and your life. Thank you so much for your understanding.