Everest High Passes and Island Peak Climbing 21 Days

An early wake-up call will be set since we need to get to the airport to catch up with the earliest flight to Lukla. Usually, the airport reporting time is one hour early prior to your flight departure time to Lukla. Flight to Lukla is around 35 minutes that cruises over the untouched valleys giving you one of the most thrilling mountain flights with a brilliant view. Lukla airport is considered as one of the most dangerous airport in the world which in reality is very untrue, in fact, it's one of the most terrific airport in the world with an unbelievable experience. once we land on the inclined airstrip of Lukla we take a break to enjoy the lively flight activities flying in and out.

Soon we will be introduced to your local trekking crew and hit the trail with excitement. We walk to the end of the village Lukla and shortly enter the buffer zone of Sagarmatha national park. The valley opens before us with the deep Dudh-Koshi gorge showing before us. We see ample "Mani Wall" (prayer wall) which is a compilation of many stone tablets, each with the Buddhist chanting inscriptions, "Om Mani Padme Hum" which means, "Hail to the jewel on the lotus". Please respect the local tradition as the local people walking left to these Mani Walls. We come across many but beautiful sherpa settlements and eventually get to our first destination, Phakding. This 4 hours walk is indeed very delightful. The afternoon is free which you can always use it to explore the area of Phakding. 

Leaving Phakding and crossing our first suspension bridge we take the trail that leads us to the first village of Tok-Tok. Today, we will cross five (5) suspension bridges among which one being the highest in the region of Everest. We walk through the beautiful woodland trail of pine and terraced fields, we cross and recross the thundering glacial river ' Dudh Koshi '. We will encounter groups of mules and Dzopkyo (a cross between yak and cow) carrying the supplies along the trail. Spectacular mountain peaks like Kusum Khangkaru (6367m) Kongde RI (6093 m), Nupla (5885), and Thamserku (6808m) rises majestically above us.

We walk further to the village of Monjo to the Sagarmatha National Park check post to register our entry. As we walk further you would realize why Sagarmatha has been tagged as a World Heritage site. We descend down to the last settlement of Jorsalle for Lunch. Enjoying your lunch over the music of the rustling Dudh Koshi river is very soothing. After lunch, we continue further and get to the confluence of the Dudh Koshi and Bhote Koshi and cross a spectacular high bridge before commencing ascent to the village of Namche Bazaar, a gateway to the Everest. As we ascent passing through the pine forest of rhododendron and magnolia, we will sight our first view of the majestic Mt. Everest from a vantage point. Eventually, we get the dreamland of Namche bazaar, the administrative center, and the unofficial capital of the Khumbu region. It's a luxury town with all the luxury that a traveler wouldn't expect in the middle of the remote valley. 

Today we wake up with the view of mighty Kongde before us dominating the entire valley. After breakfast, we will go for an exciting acclimatization walk to the village of Shyanboche to witness one of the most dramatic mountain views with Everest, Amadablam, and their neighboring mountains. If you wish to go further to the Everest View Lodge owned by the Japanese for a more spectacular view you can, it's optional. Since this is more like a mechanism of "walk high sleep low", we spend some time in higher elevation and descend back to Namche for lunch. Later during the day, You may walk to the hill above the village to the National Park Headquarter to see the stunning view of huge mountains including Mt. Everest. The Sherpa cultural center (museum) in National Park headquarters has an interesting collection of Sherpa mountaineering items and photographs. The afternoon is free, celebrate yourself in one of the coffee bars with fresh coffee. 

Leaving Namche we walk an effortless trail towards Thame (3,820m / 12,532 feet.) following the Bhotekoshi river valley. This walk takes us away from the popular and usual Everest Base Camp trail which is normally crowded. It takes us to the more serene less traveled valley of Thame, the village that served as a significant Junction for the Tibetan traders during bygone years. This valley has also served very well during the salt-trade era between Nepal and Tibet. Furthermore, it takes us toward the home of many of the most accomplished Sherpa Everest climbers. Tenzing Norgay was from Thame. Other famous mountaineers like Ang Rita and Apa Sherpa both from Thame. Here you can make a visit to the monastery of Thame is home to a Rimpoche or reincarnate lama. We will have lunch at Thame itself and later in the afternoon, we will walk to the monastery build high up in the ridge that delivers one of the most sensational view. 

We leave Thame and walk in the direction of the fabled Nangpa La pass, the glaciated pass into Tibet. Nomadic Tibetan traders have always used this trail crossing the Nangpa La and coming over to Namche for trade opportunities. However, we take a different trail other than the trial that leads to Nangpa La that is less trodden and very serene that goes further into the typical wilderness areas. We follow the right side of the valley that gradually takes us to the small settlement of Taranga and Marulung. Depending on our time schedule we may have lunch at Marulung. From Marulung another hour of the beautiful climb takes us to the small basic settlement and the base of Renjo La pass, Lumde. Overnight at Lumde.

Today there's no such thing as a hard and fast rule. We simply relax, enjoy our breakfast and casually go out for a short excursion as our acclimatization hike. Your group leader will arrange your excursion destination, most probably it would be something like climbing a small hill, gain certain elevation, take loads of pictures, and head back before lunch. After lunch, you have a free afternoon. You can either go around, read books, listen to music, or just relax and contemplate for tomorrow. 

We wake up very early in the morning and depart for Renjo-La pass. Today we are crossing our first Everest High Pass and certainly, it's going to be a long day but the fun of walking into the wilderness into the untouched valley surpasses all. If you are familiar with the Rocky passes in Colorado you will definitely find Renjo-La pass similar which is very alpine and jagged. We start with an ascent that climbs high up into the ridge and gets gradual. We cross a few tiny lakes, which actually are small glacial ponds and your walk is overshadowed by the massive view of Kyajo Ri (6186m). Eventually, we get to Renjo-La one of the most highlighted pass with heavenly views. From the pass we have an extraordinary view of Everest (one of the best view in the entire region), Nuptse, Lhotse (the fourth highest mountain in the world), Makalu (the fifth highest in the world), and many more gigantic Himalayan peaks. As you descend to Gokyo there is Cho-Oyu (the sixth highest in the world) that dominates the entire Gokyo. We will descend all the way into Gokyo at an elevation of 4800m / 15,748 feet. Gokyo is very heavenly that is situated in the lap of Cho-Oyu and proudly owns on the most beautiful Turquoise lake. 

Since it's a short walk today to get to Dragnag OR Thangnak, we start very casually. Leaving Gokyo we climb a small ridge and descend all the way down to the Ngozumba Glacier, the longest glacier in the Himalayas.  Going over this rugged Ngozumba Glacier is indeed very thrilling. We walk the undulating boulder trail over the glacier that changes every year since underneath it is an active glacier that shifts and retreats. as you walk this glacier do not miss looking back to the majestic Cho-Oyu. Besides Cho-Oyu, the Kangchung peak (6063m) stands brilliantly overlooking you and the valley. Keep an eye open for the Himalayan Thar (mountain goats) on the rocky slopes as they are not hunted and are not too shy. Soon we get to Dragnag where we will have lunch and we either relax or go for a short walk. Do some laundry if the weather is awesome. 

Once again we start our journey early in the morning to take advantage of the stable early morning weather pattern that prevails in the Himalayas. We start with a regular ascend, not too painful though. As we get to the ridgeline we descend for a while and walk on the boulder trail to get to the base of the Cho-La pass. We climb a steeply vertical trail which is very gravely, cautiousness needs to be taken for rockfall. Take it slow. Depending upon the weather condition it takes 3-4 hours to reach the saddle of the Cho-La Pass. There will be time on the crown of the Pass to drink and savor the life long experience of being on the Pass before the descent into the valley to Dzongla. Cho-La pass, a glacial pass always has snow or ice on the top depending on the season. It's really fascinating but occasionally it needs a crampon or yak tracks to get away with the slippery path. This is one of the special days the highlight of the trip. The views of the peaks seem to hover over us. Words fail to describe the beauty of nature and the sense of achievement to be on the Pass. Soon we steeply descend to another small town of Dzongla. The view of Cholatse (6335m) simply appears miraculous before us. 

The early morning sun is welcome after a cold night and reveals a dramatic panorama of the spectacular mountains. We walk the most beautiful Himalayan meadow trail that descends and climbs and continue past Cholatse Lake. Beyond the lake, the Chola Glacier flows from the saddle between the cliffs of Cholatse and Tabuche peaks (6367m) with a rugged beautiful display. We continue our walk and now Lobuche peak (6145m) dominates the valley, and eventually, we join the busy trail to Everest Base Camp. Walking on barren slopes above the tree line we sill see different peaks such as Cholatse, Lobuche, and Pumori (7165m) that unfold before us in this contrasting and spectacular landscape. Rock cairns can be seen dedicated to the memory of climbers attempting the high mountains at Dughla Ridge. Walking up onto the moraine of Khumbu Glacier (the longest glacier in Nepal) we ultimately get to our destination, Lobuche (4,910 m/16,108 feet) for the overnight camp. Lobuche is a small town with few teahouses situated at the base of soaring Lobuche East Peak. One can feel the temperature drops here as we are more exposed to our camp situated along with this glacier moraine.

Today, we are high among the glaciers of the world's highest peaks to trek alongside the Khumbu Glacier, as the trail winds over the rocky marine towards the high settlement of seasonal spectacular village called Gorak Shep. Walking the undulating trail of Changri Nup and Changri Shar Glacier we eventually get to Gorakshep where we will have quick lunch. After some rest,  we head for the historical ascend to Everest Base Camp. The trail sometimes can be difficult to follow so do keep an eye on your Sherpa guides and walk carefully. On the way, we might encounter yaks and porters supplying food and equipment to the Expedition group in March and April. We could not see the Everest from base camp but we can see the most difficult and dangerous section of the Everest expedition, the Khumbu Ice Fall that flows from the Western Cwm. We return to Gorak Shep for an overnight stay. This spectacular village is surrounded by Pumori (7165m), Lingtren (6749m), Khumbutse (6665m), Nuptse (7861m), and of course Everest (8848m). As the sun sets it becomes very cold though the sun is strong in the daytime. We head back to Gorakshep, overnight at Gorakshep.

The next morning we will get the early wake-up call as set by your group leader over what he considers best. We ascend the slopes of Kalapathar (Black Rock), a small, rocky peak on the southwest ridge of Pumori. A slow, and steady pace takes us to a vantage point to cherish the sensational Himalayan vistas all around. The climb is not easy but the view from the top surpasses the wildest imagination. We will hear huge glaciers creaking as they move under pressure and be awe-struck at the sheer size and majesty of the surrounding peaks including Pumori, Nuptse, Changtse, Ama Dablam, Tabuche, Kangtega, and Everest – the highest mountain in the world. About a 3-kilometer distance east and some 200 meters below, the famed Everest base camp is once again seen in a bowl at the bottom of the notorious Khumbu Ice Fall. For many trekkers reaching Kala Pathar is a very emotional experience and we have allowed plenty of time on Kala Pattar to enjoy the experience.

The trek to Everest base camp OR Kalapathar is optional so if you are feeling tired you can rest at Gorak Shep instead. However, you have every right to choose one among the two in accordance with your preference.

After making historic steps on Everest Base Camp and Kalapattar, we will descend down to the beautiful highlander's village called Dingboche. Another day through the high altitude Himalayan meadow we slowly descend to the most beautiful settlement of Dingboche, so be prepared for the long day. However, this would be entirely a different valley unlike Thame or Gokyo valley.

After breakfast, we leave Dingboche and enter Imja Valley. We walk the wider trail, the land of the seabuckthorn berries where we are completely surrounded by majestic soaring peaks. From your left, you will be very well fenced and protected by soaring  Lhotse, Peak 38, Island Peak, Choplu, Kali Himal, Amphulapcha, and Amadablam. Gradually we get to the village of Chhukhung (4730m) where we will have lunch. After lunch, we walk the glacial moraine trail that has come all the way from Lhotse glacier and have in course of time retreated and left the moraine. Walking in this beautiful hidden valley is very fascinating and ultimately reaches the Island peak base camp at (5,000m / 16,404 feet). 

Being at Island peak Base camp has a different charm. Skipping all the luxury of the teahouse facility and getting back to the age-old arrangements of CAMPING is certainly a lot of fun. You will be introduced to our camping kitchen crew and most significantly our CLIMBING SHERPA (climbing leader or guide). Hot water bags will be provided at the night. The taste of camping food prepared by our professional cook surpasses the food tastes of all teahouses. 

Today morning you will wake up over the wake-up call from one of our assistant guide who would serve you a cup of hot black tea.  Later in a while, you will be provided with washing water, by the time you finish your washing glorious breakfast will be organized. Imagine yourself being into the wilderness, into thin air, surrounded by majestic peaks in a place like heaven waking up and enjoying your breakfast. After breakfast, your Climbing leader along with your Group leader will organize a Climbing course - this will be the time you will be given your gears that would include climbing boot, harnesses, helmet, crampon, jumar, etc. The climbing sherpa will fix the rope on some inclined surface and will give you a demonstration regarding the climbing techniques, use of gears, and rescue measures. After Lunch, you will have a free afternoon - enjoy and relax and get ready for your midnight wake-up call and summiting Island peak. 

Midnight wake-up call will be set - simply means you will be getting a wake-up call around 12 midnight. You will be served with a quick breakfast - sounds strange, isn't it? having your breakfast around midnight! but it's not something unusual for Everest Climbers during their expeditions. So get let it go off your mind that says it's something very funky. Enjoy your breakfast. Soon you will start off led by your climbing leader with your trekking group leader at the back as usual. The view of climbers walking in a queue with their head torches looks amazing. You will be regularly climbing the rugged trail along the rock gullies that have no established trail. As we get to the crampon point you will be asked to put on your gears including your harnesses (already set) and crampons and we summit Island Peak. You will definitely have the most thrilling experience walking over the ice, crossing crevasses, and getting up to the summit. The view -- you would be so much thrilled and amazed with the view you have from the top of Island peak. Standing at this point with a heavenly view is something beyond belief that it's hard to perceive. We will get back to the base camp and celebrate our accomplishments. 

Today morning you will be given a casual wake up. We will enjoy our hot breakfast and say goodbye to our kitchen crew and the climbing sherpa. TIPPING is a culture in trekking, its a very simple way of saying THANK YOU  -  so we do tipping to our island peak staff and descend further down to the prosperous village of Pangboche. As for the tipping, your trekking Group Leader will assist you over the guideline. Today again we take a different valley with an awesome view. Leaving base camp and exiting from the Imja Valley we head towards Pangboche. Following the Imja Khola (river) we retrace our trail to Dingboche and then walk further down to the beautiful village of Samar where we most probably have lunch. After lunch, a short effortless trial takes us to the charming village of Pangboche where we will stay overnight. You will breathe a sigh of relief to get back to the treeline area with more oxygen. Pangboche, a village blessed with the shadow of Amadablam (6,812m)

Today is going to be another enlightened walk via Tengboche Monastery and the region that delivers the most graceful scenic beauty. We further descend down to the bridge from where the view of Amadablam is gorgeous. Soon we climb a small hill to get to the Tengboche Monastery (3,860m), one of the most active monastery where trekkers and climbers from around the world lit butter lamps and take the blessing from the highest lama (Buddhist Monk). We will visit the monastery and descend further down to another small beautiful town of Phunki Tenga (3,250m). For the next hour and a half, we start ascending through the pine-forested trail to the village situated high up on the ridge called Khyangjuma with an extraordinary view of Thamserku where we will have lunch. After lunch, we walk an effortless trial - very established - built by an ex climber who devoted his life in building better trails for travellers through a small donation. Eventually, we get to Namche - its time to relax and enjoy - grab yourself a beer to cherish your accomplishment. 

Once again going over the high suspension bridges we retrace our trail back to Lukla. You would be quite amazed how much further without much difficulty you walked this trail a few days back. As you cross trekkers walking up the Namche Hill you will undoubtedly have a sigh of relief. We will most probably have lunch at Phakding and walk to Lukla.

Being it a last night fun activity follows with dancing, celebrating your achievement, and Tipping your local staff. 

We will wake up early in the morning to catch up with our earliest flight to Kathmandu. All flights to and from Lukla usually fly in the early morning. Once again experience the thrill of taking off from Lukla airport. The mountain view to your right is incredibly stunning. So in any case, if you get a seat to your right you are LUCKY. Soon you will be transferred to the hotel. If flights take off on time you will have enough time to explore Kathmandu city. 

As per your flight schedule transportation will be provided. 

NOTE: Aiport reporting time in Nepal is 3 hours prior to your flight departure time. Your leader will accompany you to the airport.