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The trek for those with limited time, yet still offering close-up views of Everest and time among the villages of the Sherpa.
This route into the Everest region is one of the busiest in Nepal. After the exciting mountain flight into Lukla ascend the Dudh Kosi Valley to the Sherpa settlement of Namche Bazaar.
A day's walk through lovely forests to the famous Buddhist monastery of Tengboche is rewarded with views of Everest rising behind the Lhotse / Nuptse wall and the stunning peak of Ama Dablam. The peaceful village of Khumjung provides a glimpse of traditional Sherpa life.
Where are you going?
Days 1-3 : The mountain flight into Lukla is spectacular and the landing an exciting beginning to the trek ? one end of the runway is 60 meters higher than the other. Heading through pine and cedar woods along the Dudh Kosi to Pakding you will encounter your first yak caravans carrying trekking and equipment and supplies ? including yours ? towards base camp. These wonderful beasts creating mobile roadblocks, or virtual avalanches on downhill stretches, are a feature of all treks in the Everest region. It is also possible to see musk deer, Himalayan tahr and, if you sit quietly on the river banks, water rats. Namche Bazaar is the administrative capital of the region, historically it was the staging point for trading expeditions to Tibet and its Saturday market remains an important event bringing traders from villages a week's walk away. An acclimatization day allows for an excursion to Thame. Intricately carved mani stones mark the path to this large valley with a picturesque gompa on the hillside overlooking the valley.
Days 4-5 : Leaving Namche the route is unbelievably beautiful ? the Dudh Kosi is far below and Thamserku, Kantega, Ama Dablam, Lhotse and Everest rise in front. Woods, rhododendron forests, mani walls, chorten and suspension bridges across the river make this a lovely walk. The morning view from Tengboche is justifiably considered one of the most magnificent in the world. Tengboche Gompa, the cultural and religious center of Khumbu. Founded in 1912, it has been destroyed and rebuilt twice as the result of earthquake and fire.
Days 6-8 : Retrace your steps to Lukla taking time to sit enjoying the beautiful surrounds and watching the numerous bird and animal species regularly seen along the trail.
Day 9 : Return flight from Lukla to Kathmandu.
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