Arun Valley and Everest Base Camp Trek

Trip Itinerary

Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m)

Arrival in Kathmandu.

Day 2 : Kathmandu – Preparation Day (1,400 m)

Preparation for trek and permits in Kathmandu.

Day 3 : Fly to Tumlingtar (410 m) – Approx. 45 Minutes

Today we take a morning flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar. The flight takes around 45 minutes and offers wide views of hills, river valleys, and a gradual shift from the Kathmandu Valley into the lower hilly regions of eastern Nepal.

On arrival at Tumlingtar (410 m), we land at a small regional airstrip surrounded by warm green hills and river valleys. This serves as the gateway to the Arun Valley trekking route. After landing, we meet the trekking crew, complete final arrangements, and transfer to the hotel for check-in.

The rest of the day is free for rest. After lunch, you may take a short stroll around Tumlingtar town, explore the local market area, and experience the peaceful rural atmosphere of the Arun Valley. This is a comfortable first day before the trek begins tomorrow.

Overnight stay in Tumlingtar.

Day 4 : Tumlingtar to Gothe Bazaar (~775 m) – Approx. 6–7 Hours

Today, the trek begins on foot from Tumlingtar, entering the lower Arun Valley and following the course of the Arun River into increasingly hilly terrain. The trail passes through wide river plains, fertile farmland, and scattered rural settlements, with the sound of the river accompanying the journey. As we move deeper into the valley, the landscape gradually shifts from lowland farming areas to greener hills with small villages and terraced fields. The route includes suspension bridges over tributary streams, gentle ups and downs, and sections through quiet countryside. The walking remains steady and enjoyable, with distant Himalayan ridges beginning to appear as the valley narrows. By late afternoon, we arrive at Gothe Bazaar (~775 m), a small riverside settlement and an important entry point to the upper Arun trekking region. Overnight stay in Gothe Bazaar.

Day 5 : Gothe Bazaar to Salpa Phedi (~1,680 m) – Approx. 5.5–6 Hours

Today’s trek follows the Irkhuwa Khola valley, gradually gaining altitude as we leave Gothe Bazaar and move into more forested terrain. The trail winds through a mix of farmland, small rural villages, and lush vegetation, offering a steady and continuous ascent. Along the way, we cross several suspension bridges over streams and tributaries, while passing through cardamom plantations, bamboo groves, and shaded forest sections. The landscape begins to feel cooler and more enclosed as we gain elevation and move away from the lower valley. The walking is consistent with gradual uphill sections, making it a good acclimatization day as the terrain slowly transitions into mid-hill forest. By late afternoon, we arrive at Salpa Phedi (~1,680 m), located at the base of the Salpa Pass region. Overnight stay in Salpa Phedi.

Day 6 : Salpa Phedi to Sanam (~2,850 m) – Approx. 7–8 Hours

Today is a long and rewarding day as we begin a steady ascent from Salpa Phedi toward the higher ridges of the Salpa region. The trail climbs consistently through dense forests of rhododendron, oak, and bamboo, offering a more remote and immersive mountain environment. As we gain elevation, occasional openings in the forest provide views across deep valleys and layered hills. The trail involves sustained uphill walking with sections of stone steps and natural forest paths, gradually leading toward higher ridge lines. Along the way, you begin to notice signs of Buddhist culture, including prayer wheels and mani walls, commonly found in Sherpa villages and along important trails. After crossing the upper ridges, the trail becomes gentler with a gradual descent into the upper Solu region. The landscape opens slightly, revealing scattered settlements and cultivated land. By late afternoon, we arrive at Sanam (~2,850 m), a traditional Sherpa village surrounded by farmland and forest. Overnight stay in Sanam.

Day 7 : Sanam to Khiraule (~2500–2600 m), 5–6 hrs walk

The trail continues through ridgelines and forested slopes with steady ascent and descent. You pass small settlements and experience a gradual cultural transition between the Rai and the Sherpa regions. After crossing the Surke La Pass area, you begin a gentle descent toward Khiraule, a peaceful village known for its monastery and valley views. Along the trail, you will see chortens (stupas), mani walls, and prayer flags, which are sacred Buddhist structures symbolizing peace, protection, and enlightenment. Prayer flags carry written mantras, and as the wind blows, it is believed the prayers are spread across the

Day 8 : Khiraule to Gudel (~1,900 m) – Approx. 4–4.5 Hours

Today’s trek is a steady descent from Khiraule into the lower Solu valleys. The trail passes through forest sections, terraced farmlands, and traditional hillside paths as you gradually lose altitude and enter warmer, more agricultural landscapes. As you descend, the cultural setting shifts toward the Rai community, one of the major ethnic groups of eastern Nepal. The Rai people are traditionally hill farmers with deep roots in animist beliefs blended with Hindu influences. Their villages are known for terraced cultivation, millet and maize farming, wooden houses, and a strong connection to ancestral land and nature spirits. Life here remains closely tied to seasonal farming and traditional customs, offering a rich cultural contrast to the higher Sherpa regions. Arrival at Gudel (~1,900 m), a hillside Rai village known for its terraced fields, traditional homes, and authentic rural lifestyle in the Solu region. Overnight stay in Gudel.

Day 9 : Gudel to Najingdingma (~2,650 m) – Approx. 6–6.5 Hours

Today’s trek starts from Gudel with a steady uphill walk into quieter and more forested mountain terrain. The trail climbs gradually through woodland paths, small farmlands, and traditional hillside routes, offering a peaceful section of the Arun Valley trekking journey. Along the way, you cross suspension bridges over small rivers and pass streams and seasonal waterfalls. Scattered rural settlements appear occasionally along the route, but the landscape becomes increasingly calm and natural as you gain elevation. By late afternoon, you arrive at Najingdingma (~2,650 m), a quiet mountain village surrounded by forest and grazing land. Overnight stay in Najingdingma.

Day 10 : Najingdingma to Pangum (~2,850 m) – Approx. 5–5.5 Hours

Today’s trek climbs steadily from Najingdingma toward the high ridges of Pangum La Pass. The trail passes through beautiful rhododendron forests, especially vibrant during the spring blooming season (March to May), when the hillsides turn red, pink, and white with flowering rhododendron trees. Outside this season, the forest remains dense and green, offering a peaceful alpine atmosphere. As the route gains elevation, it follows narrow ridge lines and open highland terrain with expanding views of surrounding valleys. After crossing the Pangum La Pass area, the trail descends into Pangum, a traditional Sherpa village set in a quiet mountain landscape. Pangum is known for its monastery, traditional stone houses, and a lifestyle closely connected to the mountains. Local life is mainly based on small-scale farming and seasonal agriculture, including maize, potatoes, and vegetables grown on terraced fields. Some households also keep livestock such as yaks and cattle which are important for milk, butter, and agricultural support. Overnight stay in Pangum.

Day 11 : Pangum to Puiyan (~2,770 m) – Approx. 5–5.5 Hours

Today you will end the Arun Valley section of the trek, with the journey continuing tomorrow as you join the Everest Base Camp trekking route. You’ll follow forest paths and ridge walks with a steady descent toward Puiyan.The trail remains peaceful and scenic, moving through forested slopes and small hillside sections as you gradually descend in altitude.By late afternoon, you arrive at Puiyan (~2,770 m), marking the end of the Arun Valley trekking section. Overnight stay in Puiyan.

Day 12 : Puiyan to Phakding (2,610 m) – Approx. 5–6 Hours

Today’s trek takes you from the peaceful hillside village of Puiyan down into the Dudh Koshi Valley, reaching Phakding, an important stop on the Everest Base Camp trekking route.After breakfast, begin your descent through terraced fields, traditional Sherpa settlements, and forested hillsides. The trail follows stone steps and natural mountain paths, offering quiet Himalayan scenery and changing valley views as you move lower into the river basin.As you continue, the environment becomes more active as you approach the main Everest trekking route. You will meet groups heading uphill toward Everest Base Camp—focused, energetic, and excited for the journey ahead—while trekkers coming down appear cheerful and relieved, often sharing stories of reaching the world’s highest base camp. The route passes through rhododendron and pine forests, with several suspension bridge crossings over rivers and tributaries. Small teahouses along the way offer rest stops and refreshments. After 5-6 hours easy hiking , you arrive at Phakding, where you can relax, enjoy a warm meal, and rest before the next day’s climb toward Namche Bazaar.O/N in Phakding.

Day 13 : Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m), Walk approx. 5-6 hours

Today, we cross and re-cross the Dudh Kosi River several times on high suspension bridges, including the iconic Hillary Suspension Bridge. The trail passes through the charming Sherpa villages of Benkar, Monjo, and Jorsale. Beyond Monjo, we enter Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where our permits will be checked. After crossing the Hillary Suspension Bridge—decorated with colorful prayer flags that carry written mantras, believed to spread blessings, harmony, and good fortune as the wind blows—we begin the steep ascent to Namche Bazaar. This climb is challenging, so we hike at a slow and steady pace. Halfway up, on clear days, you may catch your first glimpse of Mount Everest rising majestically behind the great ridge of Nuptse-Lhotse. Namche Bazaar has long been a vibrant trading hub for Hindu merchants from the lowlands and Tibetan yak caravans crossing the glaciated Nangpa La. Today, trekkers can also shop for or rent any missing gear before continuing their journey. As the cultural and economic heart of the Khumbu region, Namche offers shops, cafes, bakeries, and internet services. Spend the evening exploring this lively town and preparing for the higher trails ahead.

Day 14 : Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar (3,440 m)

Today is a crucial rest and acclimatization day, allowing your body to adjust to the high altitude before continuing higher into the Everest region. While Namche Bazaar itself is a comfortable place to relax, we encourage you to take a gentle acclimatization hike to help your body adapt more effectively. A popular option is a walk to the Everest View Hotel, perched on a nearby ridge. From here, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam—an ideal spot for sunrise photography and your first close-up Himalayan vistas. Nearby traditional Sherpa villages, Khumjung and Khunde, are also worth exploring. In Khumjung, you can experience authentic Sherpa culture, while in Khunde, you can visit the Hillary School, founded by Sir Edmund Hillary to provide education for local children. The school has played a vital role in improving literacy and expanding opportunities for Sherpa communities in this remote Himalayan region. Khunde also hosts the Khunde Hospital, a vital healthcare center established with the support of Sir Edmund Hillary, providing essential medical services to both local residents and trekkers in this high-altitude region.Gentle walks along the surrounding ridges follow the “climb high, sleep low” principle, helping your body acclimatize while offering stunning Himalayan scenery. Taking it slow, staying well hydrated, and enjoying the experience will prepare you both physically and mentally for the higher trails ahead. Overnight: Lodge in Namche Bazaar

Day 15 : Trek from Namche Bazaar to Deboche (3,770 m) – Walk approx. 6–7 hours

After breakfast in Namche Bazaar, you begin the trek with a steady climb out of the village, gaining elevation as you leave the amphitheater-shaped settlement behind. Although demanding at the start, this section rewards you with expanding views of the surrounding valleys and Himalayan peaks. From the ridge above Namche Bazaar, the trail follows the well-established Everest Base Camp trekking route, contouring along the mountainside high above the rushing Dudh Koshi River.The path gently traverses the hillside with a few short ascents and descents, offering panoramic views of Mount Everest (8,848 m), Lhotse (8,516 m), Thamserku (6,608 m), and the striking Ama Dablam (6,812 m) on clear days. Continuing along the hillside, you pass through small Sherpa settlements such as Kyangjuma before reaching Sansa, where the trail separates—one route leads toward the Gokyo Valley, while the other follows the classic Everest route. From Sansa, you follow the classic Everest route, descending to the river valley through pine and rhododendron forests and crossing a dramatic suspension bridge before reaching Phunki Tenga, a popular riverside stop for lunch and rest. After the break, the trail climbs steadily uphill through forested terrain for approximately two hours, gaining significant elevation. This is the most physically demanding section of the day, so maintaining a slow and steady pace is essential. At the top lies Tengboche, home to the famous Tengboche Monastery—the largest and most important monastery in the Khumbu region. This spiritual center holds deep significance for the Sherpa community and offers spectacular close-up views of Ama Dablam and surrounding peaks. From Tengboche, the trek continues with a pleasant 20–30 minute descent through a peaceful forest to Deboche, a quieter village nestled among trees. Deboche is an ideal place to rest and recover, offering a calm alpine atmosphere after a rewarding day of trekking. Overnight: Lodge in Deboche

Day 16 : Trek from Deboche to Dingboche (3,930 m) – Walk approx. 5–6 hours

Leaving Deboche, the trail descends gently through a peaceful forest before crossing a suspension bridge over the Imja Khola River.. From here, the route gradually ascends toward Pangboche, one of the oldest Sherpa villages in the region, offering stunning views of Ama Dablam. As you continue, the landscape begins to change noticeably. Trees become sparse, and the terrain opens into wide valleys surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks. The air becomes thinner, and the scenery more rugged and dramatic. Passing through Somare and Orsho, the trail follows a gentle incline along the valley floor, with incredible views of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Island Peak. Stone-walled fields and yak pastures line the path, reflecting the traditional lifestyle of the region. Upon reaching Dingboche (4,410 m), you are welcomed by a picturesque village set beneath towering mountains. Known as the “summer valley” of the Khumbu, Dingboche is an important acclimatization stop, offering breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere. You can see village is surrounded by stone-walled fields built to protect crops from strong winds and grazing animals.

Day 17 : Acclimatization Day in Dingboche (4,410 m)

Today is a crucial rest and acclimatization day, giving your body time to adjust to the thinner mountain air and reducing the risk of altitude sickness. Dingboche is a key stop on the Everest Base Camp trek, offering a peaceful alpine environment with yak pastures, stone-walled fields, and distant glaciers. During this day, short hikes to nearby viewpoints are highly recommended to practice the “climb high, sleep low” technique, which helps improve acclimatization. Popular options include ascending Nagarjun Hill for panoramic views of Lhotse, Island Peak, Ama Dablam, and surrounding peaks, or exploring the Chhukung Valley with its dramatic mountain scenery. While hiking or resting, focus on proper hydration, balanced meals, and slow pacing to ensure a safe and comfortable trek onward. This day provides the perfect balance of gentle activity and rest, preparing you for the higher sections of the Everest Base Camp trail.

Day 18 : Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche (4,930 m) – Approx. 6 hours

After a restful acclimatization day in Dingboche, today’s trek takes you higher into the Everest region, gradually leaving the tree line behind. The trail climbs onto a ridge above the Pheriche Valley, where the landscape opens dramatically and you are rewarded with excellent views of the surrounding peaks. To the west, the peaks of Taweche and Cholatse rise sharply, while to the north, Lobuche Peak and the snowfields leading toward Cho La dominate the horizon. Continuing along the ridge, you reach Thukla, where you pause at the foot of the vast Khumbu Glacier for a short rest and lunch. From here, the trail becomes steeper as you ascend to the windswept ridge of Thukla Pass (Dughla Pass), marked by memorial cairns dedicated to Sherpas and climbers who lost their lives on Mount Everest and surrounding peaks. This is a powerful and reflective point along the route. After the memorial area, the route becomes less steep but remains uneven as you traverse glacial debris and stone pathways. On a clear day, distant views of peaks such as Pumori and other Khumbu giants can be seen as you move deeper into the valley. The trail then gradually descends and becomes gentler before the final approach to Lobuche, a small but striking settlement perched at the edge of the high Khumbu Valley. From your lodge, enjoy breathtaking sunset views of Nuptse, Pumori, and Taboche, while resting for the challenging days ahead toward Everest Base Camp. Overnight: Lodge in Lobuche

Day 19 : Trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5,170 m) & Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) – Approx. 7–8 hours

Today is one of the most memorable days of the Everest Base Camp trek. Leaving Lobuche, the trail follows the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier, with towering Pumori on your left. The terrain gradually becomes rockier and more alpine as you ascend toward Gorak Shep, the last settlement before Everest Base Camp. Along the way, you’ll notice the stark beauty of high-altitude landscapes, including glacial moraines, scattered boulders, and distant snow-capped peaks. After a short rest and lunch at Gorak Shep, you continue on a rocky trail toward Everest Base Camp (5,364 m). This final stretch offers close-up views of the Khumbu Icefall, massive glaciers, and the surrounding Himalayan giants like Nuptse, Lhotse, and Pumori. At base camp, trekkers can witness expedition teams preparing for their summit attempts, giving a unique glimpse into mountaineering life on Everest. This is a perfect spot for photos and to soak in the grandeur of the Himalayas. After exploring base camp, you retrace your steps back to Gorak Shep for an overnight stay, allowing your body to recover at a slightly lower altitude. From the lodge, enjoy views of the surrounding peaks and the setting sun over the Khumbu Valley, reflecting on an unforgettable day in the world’s highest mountains. Overnight: Lodge in Gorak Shep

Day 20 : Ascend Kala Patthar (5,545 m) & Trek to Pheriche (4,240 m) – Approx. 8–9 hours

Today begins with an early morning hike from Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar, one of the highest and most iconic viewpoints on the Everest Base Camp trek. The trail is steep but immensely rewarding, offering spectacular panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumori, and surrounding Himalayan peaks. Sunrise from Kala Patthar provides an unforgettable photographic opportunity as the first light illuminates Everest’s towering summit. After spending time at the viewpoint and capturing the majestic scenery, you descend back to Gorak Shep for breakfast. From there, the trek continues downhill, passing through Lobuche and Dughla, before reaching Pheriche (4,240 m). The trail descends gradually through rocky, high-altitude terrain, crossing small streams, open valleys, and occasional yak pastures, showcasing the stark beauty of the Khumbu region. Pheriche is a peaceful village known for its high-altitude medical post, providing care for trekkers and locals dealing with altitude-related issues. Arriving in Pheriche, you can relax and recover, taking in the serene alpine environment while preparing your body for the descent and remaining sections of the Everest Base Camp trek. Overnight: Lodge in Pheriche

Day 21 : Trek to Tyangboche (3,860 m). Walk approx. 4–5 hours

Today you descend from Pheriche to Tengboche, a scenic trek of approximately 5–6 hours through river valleys, forests, and traditional Sherpa villages. You begin the day with a gradual downhill walk from Pheriche, enjoying wide Himalayan views as you lose altitude. The trail offers excellent scenery of surrounding peaks, including Ama Dablam, along the way. As you continue, you pass through Pangboche, one of the oldest Sherpa villages in the Khumbu region. Here, you can visit the famous Pangboche Monastery, believed to be one of the oldest monasteries in the Everest region. It is an important spiritual site for the local Sherpa community and is associated with early Himalayan expeditions, where mountaineers often received blessings for safe journeys. The trail then continues through nearby Sherpa settlements, where stone houses, small fields, and monasteries reflect the traditional mountain lifestyle. The landscape gradually becomes greener as you descend further into the valley. From Pangboche, the trail descends toward the Dudh Koshi River. You cross suspension bridges and then begin a steady ascent through increasingly dense rhododendron and pine forests toward Tengboche. Tengboche is home to the famous Tengboche Monastery, one of the most important Buddhist monasteries in the Everest region. From here, you can enjoy panoramic sunset views of Ama Dablam, Everest, and Lhotse.

Day 22 : Trek to Khumjung (3,790 m). Walk approx. 6–7 hours

You begin the day with a gradual descent from Tengboche to Phortse Tenga, moving through beautiful rhododendron and pine forests. Along the way, you may spot Himalayan wildlife such as musk deer, Himalayan thar, langurs, and various pheasants. After reaching Phortse Tenga, you'll cross a suspension bridge over the Dudh Koshi River before continuing your journey. From Phortse Tenga, you begin a steady ascent toward your lunch stop at Kyangjuma, a popular rest point along the trail with wide panoramic views of the Everest region. From here, the path continues with a gentle uphill walk through rhododendron and pine forests. You eventually reach Khumjung, one of the most important Sherpa villages in the Khumbu region. Here, you can visit the Khumjung Monastery, where a reputed “Yeti scalp” is preserved and displayed. You can also explore the Sir Edmund Hillary School and the nearby Khunde Hospital, if you have not visited them during your acclimatization day—both are important landmarks of Himalayan community development. Overnight stay in Khumjung.

Day 23 : Trek to Lukla (2,860 m) – 6–7 Hours

Your final day in the Everest region begins with a gentle descent from Khumjung to Namche Bazaar, following the familiar trail you explored during your acclimatization day. Walking this route again brings a sense of familiarity, allowing you to notice details and views you may have missed earlier. From Namche Bazaar, you retrace the main trail toward Lukla, descending through lush pine and rhododendron forests, crossing the Dudh Koshi River on a series of suspension bridges, and passing lively villages such as Phakding. As you descend, take time to enjoy the scenery you may have missed earlier—the changing landscapes, flowing rivers, and distant peaks now feel more familiar, yet just as inspiring. Arriving in Lukla, there’s a mix of pride, relief, and reflection. It’s the perfect moment to celebrate the successful completion of your Everest adventure and look back on an unforgettable journey through the Himalayas. Overnight: Lodge in Lukla

Day 24 : Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu / Manthali & Drive to Kathmandu

Your return flight from Lukla operates either to Kathmandu or Manthali (Ramechhap Airport), with the destination usually decided on the day of your flight or sometimes just before boarding, depending on the season, weather and flight schedules. During peak trekking seasons, flights are often redirected to Manthali instead of Kathmandu. This is mainly due to air traffic congestion at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, as well as better flight management and on-time operations from Manthali, which helps reduce delays in the busy Everest trekking period. If your flight lands in Manthali, you will continue with a 4–5 hour scenic drive back to Kathmandu on the same day. This option is often more reliable during peak seasons and ensures smoother logistics for your return.

Day 25 : Reserve Day in Kathmandu

A reserve day is included in your itinerary to provide flexibility in case of weather-related disruptions, particularly for flights to and from Lukla, which are highly weather-dependent. In the Himalayas, conditions can change quickly, and flights are sometimes delayed, canceled, or rerouted. This extra day ensures that even if your outbound flight to Lukla or your return flight from Lukla is postponed, canceled, or rerouted (for example, via Manthali), you will still have enough time to continue your trek or reach Kathmandu without the stress of missing your onward international flight. If all flights operate as scheduled, this day becomes a bonus—you can relax at your hotel, explore Kathmandu’s cultural highlights, do some last-minute shopping in Thamel, or simply rest after your trek. Overall, the reserve day adds security, flexibility, and peace of mind, making your Everest adventure safer, smoother, and more enjoyable.

Day 26 : Departure