Highlights: Scenic mountain flight, first suspension bridges, Sherpa villages, Dudh Koshi River.

After an early morning scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, you will meet your trekking crew and start your journey to Phakding. The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River through pine forests, colorful mani walls, prayer flags, and small Sherpa villages like Chhepling and Thado Koshi. The trek is gentle to help acclimatization, and you will reach Phakding in 3 to 4 hours. Optional walks to nearby monasteries or the village offer insight into Sherpa life. Overnight stay is at a cozy tea house, surrounded by the Himalayan ambiance.

Highlights: Enter Sagarmatha National Park, cross 5 suspension bridges, first view of Everest, Sherpa capital Namche Bazaar.

Today’s trek is longer, ascending along the Dudh Koshi River and crossing five suspension bridges. You will pass scenic spots like Tok Tok Village, Benkar with its waterfalls, and Chhamuwa with its local farms. Entering Sagarmatha National Park, your trekking permits are checked, and after lunch at Jorsale, you begin a steep climb through pine forests, crossing the High Bridge over the Dudh Koshi and Bhote Koshi rivers. This marks your first glimpse of Mt. Everest and Nupste before reaching Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa capital, where you will explore the lively market streets and soak in the Himalayan atmosphere.

Highlights: Panoramic views of Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, cultural Sherpa experience.

Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar (3,880m/12,729ft) – 2 to 3 hrs hikeA rest and acclimatization day is essential for higher elevations. After breakfast, take a short hike to the Everest View Hotel and Khumjung Village for spectacular views of Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Kangtega. Explore Khumjung Monastery with the legendary Yeti skull, and visit Hillary School and Khunde Hospital. You can also enjoy a stroll to the Sherpa museum or the local Saturday market if the timing aligns. This day combines cultural immersion with easy trekking to help your body adjust to the altitude.

Highlights: Forested trails, lunch at Phunki Thanga, ascend to Tengboche Monastery with breathtaking Everest views.

Today, you will ascend above Namche Bazaar, passing the museum with views of Everest and Ama Dablam. The trail winds through dense pine and rhododendron forests before a descent to Phunki Thanga for lunch. A steep climb leads to Tengboche Monastery, the largest in Khumbu, perched above the valley. Here, you will enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Kantega. Spend the evening exploring the monastery grounds and interacting with monks while soaking in the serene Himalayan environment.

Highlights: Witness Buddhist ceremonies in the biggest monastery of Khumbu.

The first day of the Mani Rimdu Festival begins with sacred prayers and empowerment rituals performed by the monks. You will witness the monks in colorful ceremonial attire performing rituals that symbolize spiritual blessings and protection. This is a unique opportunity to observe authentic Sherpa culture, take photographs of the vibrant ceremonies, and absorb the spiritual atmosphere of one of the most important festivals in the Khumbu region.

Highlights: Sacred lama dances, vibrant atmosphere with Sherpa locals and international visitors.

On the second day, the festival reaches its peak with the elaborate Cham mask dances. The monks perform a series of ritualistic dances representing the triumph of deities over demons. Thousands of local people, trekkers, photographers, and researchers gather at Tengboche Monastery, creating a lively and colorful atmosphere. You can capture the intricate dances, vivid costumes, and ceremonial music, making this day a memorable cultural experience in the high Himalayas.

Highlights: Spiritual closing ceremony, panoramic mountain views from Tengboche.

The final day of the festival features the Jinsak or closing ceremony. After breakfast, witness the concluding rituals and receive blessings (Wang) from the head lama. This day marks the end of the sacred celebrations, providing a profound spiritual experience. Enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks and reflect on the cultural journey you have experienced over the past three days.

Highlights: Descend through forests, cross suspension bridges, revisit Namche’s lively bazaar.

Descending from Tengboche through pine, juniper, rhododendron, and birch forests, the trail takes you back to Namche Bazaar. Stop at villages like Phunki Thanga and Sanasa, cross suspension bridges, and enjoy the riverside trekking scenery. Reaching Namche Bazaar, you may revisit the lively market or relax at your tea house. This day allows you to retrace your steps while enjoying a calmer pace compared to the ascent.

Highlights: Retrace scenic trail via Phakding, Tok Tok, and Ghat. Farewell dinner with crew in Lukla.

Today, you retrace the trail back to Lukla, passing through Jorsale, Monjo, Benkar, Tok Tok, and Phakding. Enjoy the lush greenery, mountain landscapes, and the villages you previously passed through. On arrival in Lukla, relax and prepare for a farewell dinner with your trekking crew, celebrating the completion of your journey through the Khumbu region.

An early morning flight returns you to Kathmandu, with possible stunning aerial views of the Himalayas. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to explore Kathmandu, shop for souvenirs, or simply rest after the trek. This day allows you to reflect on your trek and the Mani Rimdu Festival experience.

On the final day, you may have some free time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Trekking permits, TIMS cards, and appreciation certificates are handed over. Transfer to the airport 3 hours prior to your international departure, taking with you unforgettable memories of the Himalayas, Sherpa culture, and the spiritual Mani Rimdu Festival.