The classic walk up the Khumbu valley to the foot of Everest, past Namche Bazaar and Tengboche monastery, with a climb of Kala Patthar for the closest view of the summit.
12–14 walking days · highest point Kala Patthar 5,545 m · Strenuous · best months Mar, Apr, May, Oct, Nov · Start and end: Lukla · Protected area: Sagarmatha National Park
Fly to Lukla, about 30 minutes from Kathmandu. In the busy seasons most Lukla flights leave from Ramechhap (Manthali), a 3–4 hour drive from Kathmandu.
Lukla flights are often delayed or cancelled by wind and cloud, sometimes for days, so leave spare days at the end. Altitude is the main danger: plan acclimatisation days at Namche and Dingboche. In winter, snow covers the trail above Tengboche and many lodges close.
The Tourism Board's licensed-guide rule covers this route, but the Everest region's local government said in 2023 that guides were not compulsory there. Check before you go.
Most of these treks go above 3,000 m. The US CDC advises: once above 3,000 m, sleep no more than 500 m higher each night, add an extra day for every 1,000 m you gain, never go higher with symptoms (headache, nausea, dizziness), and go down if they get worse.
Fees and rules checked on 2026-11-02.
Trekking and sightseeing in Nepal
General guidance from the sources listed, not a guarantee. Rules, fees and trail conditions change; confirm with the official source or a registered trekking agency before you go.