Everest View Trek Difficulty
The view trek to Everest is moderately easy. Even though it has a week-long itinerary, you do not have to hike a lot. After your flight to Lukla, you will hike for a few hours to reach Phakding. Then, you will ascend towards Namche bazaar, and that's about it. The rest of the days involve exploring the picturesque Namche Bazaar. You will have the last day hike when you return to Lukla. Thus, if you are an interested trekker, you can easily accomplish the trek.
Food and Accommodation in the Everest Region
It might feel like, in terms of food and accommodation, the Everest region of the Himalayas does not have a lot to offer. However, the area will surprise you! Some of the restaurants and hotels in Namche Bazaar will serve you the best quality cuisines. If you are a foodie and want to try out cuisine options such as Western, Continental, and Indian, among many others, you have a wide variety of options. Other than that, there are bakery items available as well. But, the most popular trek food in the Everest region is Dal Bhat. Dal Bhat is a traditional Nepali dish that constitutes rice, lentils, and veggies giving you a balanced diet! When you are trekking, we recommend you try some for your own.
Similarly, the accommodation in the Everest region varies depending on your budget. The standard accommodations are modest, with basic amenities such as a hot shower and WI-FI facilities. You usually get a room on a two-person sharing basis. If you want to try it out, there are luxury-style Yeti chain hotels in Namche bazaar.
Fitness Level
The Everest View Trek is moderately easy; thus, you should have some fitness level to accomplish the trek. You can try increasing your stamina and core strength with cardio exercises such as running, walking, or cycling. Zumba classes or swimming regularly can also increase your fitness level. You do not have to push yourself a lot, although consistent work-out will help you during your trek.
Concerns about Altitude Sickness
Usually, there are some concerns about catching some symptoms of altitude sickness above the elevation of 2500m. The maximum elevation gain during the Everest View Trek is around 3500m. Thus, there are some levels of concerns regarding altitude sickness. Some of the symptoms of altitude sickness include headache, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. Taking safety precautions such as walking slowly, hydrating yourself frequently, and eating a balanced diet is best. You can also take the prescribed medicine with you.
If your symptoms become severe, you can descend to a village at a lower altitude or emergency evacuation via helicopter flight.
Best time for trekking in the Everest Region
Trek that takes you to Namche Bazaar is possible at any time of the year. However, autumn is considered the best time to go on a trek in the Everest region, in September, October, and December. The weather is clear during autumn with a vibrant ambiance.
Similarly, the spring months of March, April, and May are also great for the view. The temperature is also moderately warm, making your journey cozy. The winter months of December, January, and February garner the Everest region with a snowy Himalayan spirit. It might get icy; thus, we advise you to carry warm clothes for winter. Although, the views will make the trek worth it.
Similarly, June, July, and August are the monsoon months in Nepal. It will rain a lot. However, the Everest region is covered in lush green vegetation. The trek in monsoon is also a unique experience enriched in greenery. We advise carrying a raincoat for the hike in the monsoon.
Permit for trekking in the Everest Region
You require two permits for trekking in the Everest region via the Lukla trail:
- Sagarmatha National Park Entrance Permit:
It costs around NPR 3000 (approx. US$30) to get an entry permit to the trail leading to Sagarmatha National Park.
- Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit:
It costs around NPR 2000 (approx. US$20) for Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit.
Things to do at Namche Bazaar
Hike to Everest View PointKunde, Khumjung, the Everest View Hotel, and other locations are popular for hiking in Namche. Everest View Hotel is among the top hiking location at 9262m offering a panoramic view of Everest among the numerous beautiful trails from Namche.
Along with being at a high elevation, the hotel is renowned for its exceptional services and hospitality, where guests may take in the most breathtaking views of Ama Dablam and Everest.
Visit Syangboche or other Sherpa Settlements
Spending some time in Syangboche or other Sherpa settlements like Thame, Khumjung, or Khunde, which are only a few hours' walks from Namche, is an excellent alternative to exploring the Everest region.
Explore Sherpa Museum
The Sherpa museum, at 3555m, is located close to the military installation Sherpa Museum. You can wander around and discover more about Sherpa culture and way of life. An enormous statue of Tenzing Norgay Sherpa and a breathtaking view of Mount Everest and its nearby peaks make the journey memorable.
Visit Oldest Sherpa House
The oldest Sherpa home in Namche, known as Khangba Ningbo, is open to trekkers to explore. Nearly 150 years ago, Khangba Ngingba built a two-story stone house. In one of the house's rooms, a temple has been kept together with some old drawings and appliances.
Discover Namche Stupas
At the town's foot is a monastery with a ring of stupas and prayer wheels. The most fulfilling activity ever is turning the prayer wheels, as well. You'll feel content in your mind and soul and receive spiritual comfort. Among many trekkers worldwide, Namche Stupa and Mani Park have emerged as the main draws.
A town like this, which offers a flavor of Himalayan life and is heavily influenced by Buddhism, is something that everyone wants to see once in their lives. The Tibetan architectural style is quite appealing at Namche Bazaar, contrasting with the Tibetan lifestyle and culture. Consequently, you will observe the Nepalese culture and the Sherpa style of living.
Lukla Flight Cancellations
The weather in the Everest region is unpredictable, even in the peak autumn months of September, October, and November. If the Lukla flight for your set day is delayed or canceled, we will take the flight the next day. Thus, we encourage you to have a few days at hand, if possible. We also have the option of taking a helicopter flight or chartering a direct flight to Lukla. Anything that fits your convenience!
Packing List for Everest View Trek
- Quick dry t-shirts
- Quick dry trousers
- Thermal Inners
- Undergarments
- Trekking Poles
- Scarf
- Gloves
- Neck Gaiters
- Socks
- Energy Bars
- Hand Sanitizers
- Down Jacket/ Thick insulating jacket
- SPF 40+ or greater Sunscreen
- Lip balm
Festivals in Everest Region
The vibrant Mani Rimdu festival, a culmination of Buddhist celebrations with a religious gathering, music, ritual dances, and portrayals of the lives of legendary individuals, is held every October at Tengboche Monastery. The festivities are always open to guests, and many trekkers plan their treks to coincide with the festival. Every afternoon, visitors can take tours of the monastery. Tengboche is located along the well-traveled trek route to the Everest area. The hike is only a few hours up from Namche Bazaar. If you are planning for a trek in the Everest region in October, we hope you make it during the festival!
Everest View Trek: A Possibility for Anyone
The trek that takes you to Namche Bazaar is not as taxing as its other trekking counterparts. Thus, anyone with a moderate level of fitness can do the hike. Children at the age of 10 to adults at the age of 65 can accomplish the trek with minimal effort.