NAMCHE BAZAAR TREK (7 DAYS)

The Namche Bazaar trek is perfect for those who wish to experience the beauty of the mountains and Sherpa culture, but who feel they might not be fit enough to do the full EBC trek. It is a short trip that will give you a taste of the Himalayas as well as Sherpa culture. Namche Bazaar is the center of the Everest region. It is easily the most popular village in this area and the most developed as well. It is a perfect blend of modern conveniences and ancient traditions.

Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, our staff will receive you at the Tribhuvan International Airport and take you to your hotel. You can spend the rest of the day resting or visiting places like Thamel, Boudhanath and Pashupatinath. Early next morning, you will fly to Lukla airport (the gateway to Mt. Everest) in a small aircraft. It is a short flight (30 minutes). Once you land at Lukla, your trek begins. You will hike through green and lush landscape, covered with forests of pine and rhododendron. The path is gentle, allowing you to adjust to the pace of trekking in the mountains, and giving you a first glimpse into the lives and culture of the Sherpa people as well as the stunning views of the Himalayas, beginning with a grand view of the sacred Khumbila (God of Khumbu). Your first destination is Phakding, a quiet settlement by the Dudh Koshi River. The trail up to Phakding is relatively easy. You will pass through quiet jungles and villages along the Dudh Koshi River. From Phakding, the journey continues to Namche Bazaar. It is a short journey, but the path is steep. The trail to Namche ascends steadily, crossing multiple high suspension bridges. As you climb, the views begin to shift, and the mountains become more imposing, offering the first hints of what’s to come.

Upon arrival, there’s a certain energy to the village that is palpable. It’s not the chaotic buzz you might find in Kathmandu; nevertheless, you will find the place pulsating with life. There are the shops and cafes that line the streets, offering trekkers a place to rest and prepare for the more demanding days ahead as well as to do shopping for necessary trekking items they might have not found or forgotten to buy in Kathmandu. You can also find various cultural artifacts and souvenirs placed alongside trekking gears. Despite the modern amenities that have crept into Namche in recent years—Wi-Fi cafes, satellite phone services, even bakeries with fresh apple pies—the village hasn’t lost its connection to the past. The influence of the Sherpa people is deeply ingrained in every aspect of life here. The sound of prayer wheels turning, the sight of prayer flags fluttering in the wind, and the presence of small stupas dotted across the town all act as reminders of the region’s Buddhist roots. The town may be a commercial hub, but the mountains always loom large in the background, reminding visitors that, despite human activity, this is still a place where nature reigns supreme.

You will spend an extra day here exploring the bazaar and taking a short trip to the  Hotel Everest View, from where you get a great view of Ama Dablam, Mount Everest, and several other mountains. You will also visit small villages around Namche, particularly Khumjung, a charming, little village popular among the locals for its school. The Sherpa people are known for their warm smiles and their hospitality. Hence, despite being in one of the remotest corners of the world, you will always feel at home while you are at Namche.