Lukla Flight Information
Flights to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region, are typically operated from Kathmandu or Manthali (Ramechhap) Airport, depending on the season. During peak seasons (October-November and March-May), flights are often redirected to Manthali to avoid air traffic congestion in Kathmandu. The flight to Lukla takes about 30 minutes and offers stunning aerial views of the Himalayas. However, due to unpredictable weather conditions in the Everest region, flights may experience delays or cancellations. It’s advisable to plan a buffer day in your itinerary to accommodate any potential flight disruptions.
Packing List for Everest Base Camp Trek
A well-thought-out packing list is essential for a comfortable and successful trek to Everest Base Camp. Below is a general guide:
Clothing:
- Base layers (moisture-wicking)
- Insulating mid-layers (fleece jacket, down jacket)
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Trekking pants and t-shirts
- Thermal underwear
- Warm hat, gloves, and buff/scarf
- Hiking socks (wool or synthetic)
- Sturdy trekking boots (broken-in)
- Lightweight shoes or sandals for evenings
Gear:
- Trekking poles (adjustable)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Sleeping bag (rated for -10°C to -15°C)
- Daypack (20-30 liters) with rain cover
- Duffel bag (provided by the trekking company)
Accessories:
- Sunglasses (UV protection)
- Sunscreen and lip balm (SPF 50+)
- Water bottles or hydration system (minimum 2 liters)
- Quick-dry towel
- Personal first aid kit (with altitude sickness medication)
Other Essentials:
- Passport and necessary permits (Sagarmatha National Park entry, TIMS card)
- Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking
- Power bank and camera
- Snacks like energy bars or trail mix
Trekking Gear and Luggage Guidelines
For the trek, you will be allowed a luggage limit of 15 kg per person, which will be carried by porters. This includes both your duffel bag and daypack. Porters typically carry your larger duffel bag, while you will carry your essentials in a daypack (around 20-30 liters). Luxury Holidays Nepal provides duffel bags for trekkers, and it’s recommended that your daypack contains items like water, snacks, a camera, and layers for quick access during the trek. Any excess baggage can be stored securely in your Kathmandu hotel while you are on the trek.
When packing your gear, remember that layers are key to staying comfortable across a range of temperatures. It’s also important to have high-quality, well-fitting trekking boots and a reliable sleeping bag for cold nights at high altitudes.
How High is Hotel Everest View?
Hotel Everest View is located at an altitude of 3,880 meters (12,730 feet) above sea level. It is renowned for being one of the highest luxury hotels in the world, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Everest and other iconic peaks in the Everest region. The hotel is accessible after a scenic trek from Namche Bazaar and is a popular stop for trekkers seeking a luxurious experience combined with incredible views.
Accommodation During the Everest View Trek
Accommodation during the Luxury Everest View Trek is carefully selected to provide comfort while trekking in the remote Everest region. You will stay in the best available guesthouses and teahouses along the trekking route, all on a twin-sharing basis. One of the highlights is the night spent at Hotel Everest View, offering luxury at a high altitude.
For those seeking additional comfort, luxury lodge upgrades are available in Monjo, Namche Bazaar, and Lukla through Mountain Lodges of Nepal, which feature modern amenities like attached bathrooms, hot showers, and gourmet meals.
Kathmandu Accommodation for Everest View Trekking
Your accommodation in Kathmandu before and after the trek will be in top-tier hotels, offering comfort and relaxation after your adventures in the Everest region. Depending on your package:
- Standard Option: Stay at 4-star hotels like Hotel Mulberry or Hotel Barahi Kathmandu, offering twin/double sharing rooms with breakfast included.
- Luxury Option: Stay at 5-star hotels like Kathmandu Marriott Hotel or Hilton Kathmandu, featuring luxurious amenities and top-class service.
- Premium Option: For the ultimate experience, enjoy a stay at The Dwarika’s Hotel, a heritage luxury hotel that combines traditional Nepali architecture with world-class luxury.
These accommodations ensure a comfortable stay with modern amenities, making them the perfect base before and after your trekking journey.
Attached Toilet/Bathroom Facilities During the Trek
While trekking in the Everest region, the availability of attached toilet and bathroom facilities depends on the type of accommodation you choose. In standard guesthouses and teahouses along the trek, shared bathroom facilities are the norm and attached bathrooms may be limited. However, if you opt for the luxury lodge upgrade at Monjo, Namche Bazaar, and Lukla through Mountain Lodges of Nepal, you can enjoy attached toilet and bathroom facilities. These upgraded lodges offer modern amenities, including hot showers, comfortable rooms, and clean, private bathrooms, providing a higher level of comfort during your trek.
Permits for Everest View Trekking
To embark on the Everest View Trek, you will need to obtain the following permits:
Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit:
- Required to enter the Sagarmatha National Park, which includes the Everest region.
- Can be obtained in Kathmandu or Monjo (entry point to the park).
TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System): A mandatory permit for all trekkers in Nepal, ensuring your safety during the trek and allowing authorities to keep track of your trekking movements.
Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entry Permit: This permit is required for trekking in the local area outside of the national park, particularly for Monjo and Namche Bazaar.
All permits are included in the trekking package provided by Luxury Holidays Nepal, and your guide will assist with handling these formalities.
How Safe is it to Embark on the Everest View Trek?
The Everest View Trek is generally considered safe for trekkers of various experience levels, as it follows well-trodden paths and avoids the higher, more challenging altitudes of the Everest Base Camp trek. However, safety should always be a priority, and Luxury Holidays Nepal ensures that all precautions are taken. Your trek will be led by experienced, government-licensed guides familiar with the terrain and local conditions. Additionally, porters and guides are insured, and medical kits are provided. The trek also includes an acclimatization schedule to minimize the risk of altitude sickness.
It's important to be physically prepared, follow your guide's advice, stay hydrated, and ensure you have adequate travel insurance that covers trekking at altitudes up to 4,000 meters.
How to Prevent Altitude Sickness During the Everest View Trek?
Altitude sickness, or Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), can occur when trekking at high altitudes. While the Everest View Trek doesn’t reach extreme altitudes like Everest Base Camp, precautions should still be taken to avoid AMS, especially since Hotel Everest View is situated at 3,880 meters (12,730 feet). Here are some tips to prevent altitude sickness:
- Gradual Acclimatization: The trek includes an acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar, allowing your body to adjust to higher altitudes gradually.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can contribute to dehydration and worsen altitude symptoms.
- Trek Slowly: Avoid rushing; a slower pace helps your body adjust to the reduced oxygen levels.
- Medication: Some trekkers take Diamox (acetazolamide) to help prevent altitude sickness. Consult with your doctor before the trek for advice on medication.
- Recognize Symptoms Early: Common symptoms include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. If you experience severe symptoms, inform your guide immediately.
Luxury Holidays Nepal ensures your safety by following proper acclimatization schedules and monitoring your health throughout the trek.
What is the Best Time for the Everest View Trek?
The best time to embark on the Everest View Trek is during the two main trekking seasons in Nepal:
- Autumn (October to November): The most popular time for trekking due to clear skies, stable weather, and comfortable temperatures. This season offers the best views of the mountains, and the weather is perfect for trekking.
- Spring (March to May): Another excellent time for trekking, especially for those who enjoy warmer temperatures and seeing the rhododendron forests in full bloom. The views remain clear, though the afternoons can become slightly hazy.
Both seasons provide favorable conditions for trekking, though autumn is often considered the peak season due to its crystal-clear mountain views. Avoid the monsoon season (June to September) and the winter months (December to February), as trails can be muddy, slippery, or snow-covered, and flights to Lukla are more likely to be delayed due to poor weather conditions.
Baggage Allowances on Lukla Flights
Flights to Lukla have strict baggage allowances due to the small aircraft used and weight restrictions. The typical allowance is 15 kg per person, which includes both your main duffel bag and your hand luggage. Usually, this is split into 10 kg for your main bag (carried by porters) and 5 kg for your daypack. If you exceed the weight limit, extra baggage fees will apply, typically charged per kilogram of excess weight. It's advisable to pack light and only bring essential items. Any additional luggage can be stored securely in your hotel in Kathmandu while you're trekking.
Travel Insurance for Everest View Trek
It is mandatory to have travel insurance when undertaking the Everest View Trek. The insurance must cover high-altitude trekking (up to 4,000 meters), emergency evacuation, trip cancellations, and medical expenses. Depending on your country of residence, here are some recommended providers:
- USA and Canada: Tugo, United Health Care, World Nomads, Blue Cross: These companies offer comprehensive insurance plans that cover high-altitude trekking, medical evacuation, and trip interruptions.
- Australia and New Zealand: Fast Cover, Allianz Australia: They provide excellent travel insurance options for trekking, covering medical emergencies, helicopter evacuations, and cancellations.
- Singapore: Ergo, World Nomads (Explore Plan Level 3): Both offer plans that include high-altitude trekking and emergency medical evacuations.
- Europe: Europe Assistance, Austrian Alpine Club, Allianz Europe: These companies offer trekking insurance that covers all essential needs, including medical evacuations from high-altitude regions.
- India: ICICI Lombard: Provides comprehensive coverage for high-altitude trekking, medical expenses, and emergency evacuations.
Before purchasing insurance, ensure it specifically covers trekking at altitudes of up to 4,000 meters and includes helicopter evacuation in case of an emergency.
Tipping Tips for Your Everest View Trek
Tipping is a common practice and an important part of the trekking experience in Nepal. Here are general guidelines for tipping on the Everest View Trek:
- Guide: Recommended tipping is around USD 10-15 per day. If you are satisfied with their service, feel free to offer more.
- Porter: For porters, it is common to tip USD 5-8 per day. Like with guides, if they exceed your expectations, additional tipping is appreciated.
- Drivers and Support Staff: You can tip USD 5-10 to drivers or support staff who assist with transfers and logistics.
Tipping is usually done at the end of the trek, and it’s a good idea to hand the tip personally with a few kind words of appreciation. You can also gather contributions from the group to offer a combined tip if you’re trekking with others.
Phone and Gadget Charging on Everest View Trek
Charging electronic devices like phones, cameras, and power banks is possible during the trek, but it becomes more limited as you ascend to higher altitudes. In Namche Bazaar and other larger villages, most guesthouses offer charging facilities, often for a fee (around USD 2-5 per hour). However, as you get closer to Everest View Hotel and higher-altitude areas, charging can be more expensive and less reliable due to limited electricity supply.
To avoid issues, it’s highly recommended to bring a portable power bank (with at least 10,000-20,000 mAh capacity) to charge your devices during the trek. Solar chargers are also popular with trekkers who want an eco-friendly solution, but be mindful that weather conditions can affect their performance.
Trip Extensions on Everest View Trek
There are several exciting trip extensions that can be added to your Everest View Trek to enrich your experience. Popular options include extending your trek to Everest Base Camp, adding a scenic helicopter tour over Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar, or exploring nearby regions like the Gokyo Lakes or the Three Passes Trek. For those interested in cultural experiences, consider a Chitwan National Park safari or a visit to the ancient city of Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha. You can also add extra days in Kathmandu for further exploration of its rich history and vibrant markets.
Food Options During the Everest View Trek
During the Everest View Trek, trekkers enjoy a variety of local and international cuisines served in teahouses and lodges. Meals typically consist of traditional Nepali dishes such as dal bhat (lentil soup with rice and vegetables), noodles, soups, and Momos (dumplings). You will also find options like pasta, pizza, and fried rice to suit Western tastes. Breakfasts usually include pancakes, eggs, toast, and porridge, while snacks like energy bars, biscuits, and tea are readily available. Vegetarians are well-catered to, and special dietary requests can often be accommodated with prior notice.
Can Beginners Trek to Everest View?
Yes, the Everest View Trek is suitable for beginners. Unlike the Everest Base Camp trek, this route does not reach extreme altitudes, making it a great option for those new to trekking in the Himalayas. With proper preparation, reasonable fitness, and acclimatization, beginners can comfortably complete the trek. The itinerary is designed with rest days and moderate trekking distances, allowing first-time trekkers to enjoy the experience without overexerting themselves.
Training Program for Everest View Trek
To prepare for the Everest View Trek, a training program focusing on cardiovascular fitness, strength training, and endurance is recommended. Start your training at least 2-3 months before the trek. Incorporate activities like hiking, walking uphill or on stairs, cycling, or running to build endurance. Strength training exercises like squats, lunges, and leg presses will help prepare your legs for trekking. Also, practice carrying a daypack while walking to get accustomed to trekking with added weight. Flexibility exercises such as yoga or stretching are helpful to prevent injuries during the trek.
Everest View Trek Trekking Difficulty
The Everest View Trek is considered a moderate-level trek. Although it is not as strenuous as the Everest Base Camp trek, it still involves several days of trekking over varied terrain, with daily ascents and descents. The highest point of the trek is Hotel Everest View at an altitude of 3,880 meters (12,730 feet), which can present challenges related to altitude. With proper acclimatization, preparation, and a steady pace, most trekkers find the trek manageable. It is well-suited for those with a reasonable fitness level, including beginners.
Cost of Everest View Trek
The cost of the Everest View Trek varies depending on the level of service and accommodation options you choose. For those opting for luxury upgrades such as stays at premium lodges, helicopter transfers, or private tours, the cost can increase to more. The price includes all essential services, but additional costs such as travel insurance, personal expenses, and tipping are not included in the package.
Beginner’s Guide for Everest View Trek
As a beginner, the Everest View Trek is one of the most accessible ways to experience the grandeur of the Himalayas. Before embarking, ensure that you engage in light physical training to build stamina and endurance. Make sure to bring the right gear, including a good pair of trekking boots and warm layers. Be mindful of altitude and pace yourself to allow for proper acclimatization. Hiring an experienced guide is highly recommended to ensure your safety and to enhance your overall experience with insights into the local culture and history. Hydrate well, eat balanced meals, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
Internet & Wi-Fi Availability During Everest View Trek
Internet and Wi-Fi services are available at most teahouses and lodges along the Everest View Trek, but the connection can be slow and comes at an additional cost. As you ascend higher, the quality of the internet diminishes, and the fees increase. In larger villages like Namche Bazaar, there are several internet cafes, and some guesthouses offer Wi-Fi for USD 2-5 per hour. Many trekkers also purchase a local SIM card with data packages from providers like NTC or Ncell for more reliable access to the internet in remote areas.
Extra Expenses for the Everest View Trek
Although most major expenses are covered in the package, there are several additional costs you should budget for during the Everest View Trek:
- Meals in Kathmandu: Lunch and dinner while staying in Kathmandu.
- Snacks and Drinks: Additional snacks, bottled water, tea/coffee, or alcoholic beverages along the trek.
- Charging Fees: Teahouses often charge USD 2-5 for charging devices such as phones and cameras.
- Wi-Fi/Internet Access: Internet access fees at teahouses.
- Tipping: Tips for guides, porters, and drivers (recommended USD 10-15 per day for guides, USD 5-8 per day for porters).
- Personal Gear: Any gear rentals or purchases made in Kathmandu.
- Insurance: Trekking insurance and medical evacuation coverage.
Trekking Distance
The total trekking distance on the Everest View Trek is approximately 37 kilometers (23 miles), depending on the specific route and accommodations chosen. Here’s a breakdown of the key sections:
- Lukla to Monjo: About 12 km (7.5 miles) – takes around 4-5 hours.
- Monjo to Hotel Everest View (via Namche Bazaar): Approximately 9 km (5.5 miles) – takes about 5-6 hours.
- Hotel Everest View to Namche Bazaar: Around 3 km (1.8 miles) – takes about 2 hours.
- Namche Bazaar to Lukla: Around 13 km (8 miles) – takes about 6-7 hours.
This distance covers the full trek, including acclimatization and return from Lukla to Hotel Everest View and back.
Altitude Acclimatization
Acclimatization is a key factor in preventing altitude sickness and ensuring a safe trek. The Everest View Trek itinerary is designed with an acclimatization day at Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,286ft), which helps your body adjust to the thinner air. While the trek only reaches a maximum altitude of 3,880 meters (12,730 feet) at Hotel Everest View.
Drinking Water on the Trek
While trekking, it is important to stay hydrated. Clean, safe drinking water is available at teahouses along the route, but you may need to purchase bottled water or use water purification tablets to treat tap or river water. Bottled water becomes more expensive at higher altitudes due to transportation costs, so consider carrying a reusable water bottle and using water purification tablets or a filtration system.
Weather and Temperature on Everest View Trek
Weather conditions can vary significantly depending on the season:
- Autumn (October-November): Clear skies, moderate temperatures during the day (10-15°C/50-59°F) but cold nights (down to -5°C/23°F).
- Spring (March-May): Mild temperatures during the day, blooming rhododendrons, and warmer evenings compared to autumn.
- Winter (December-February): Very cold with temperatures often dropping to -10°C (14°F) or lower at night, especially at higher altitudes. Fewer crowds but limited trekking due to snow.
- Monsoon (June-September): Wet and humid conditions with frequent rain, making the trails muddy and slippery. This is the least recommended season for trekking.
Local Culture and Etiquette
The Everest region is home to the Sherpa people, known for their rich culture and traditions. While trekking, it is important to respect local customs and etiquette:
- Always walk clockwise around Buddhist stupas, mani stones, and prayer wheels.
- Ask for permission before taking photos of people or religious monuments.
- Modest clothing is recommended, especially in rural areas.
- When entering homes or monasteries, it is customary to remove your shoes.
Health and Hygiene on the Trek
Maintaining good hygiene is essential, especially in remote areas. Teahouses provide basic washing facilities, but hot showers may be available at an extra cost. Here are a few tips:
- Bring your own hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
- Use biodegradable soap for personal washing.
- Carry personal items like toilet paper as it may not always be available in teahouses.
The above information should ensure you're fully prepared for your Everest View Trek and can make the most of your trekking experience in the Everest region!