THE MOST BREATHTAKING TREK ON THE PLANET
GRADE 5 - This trip spends multiple days at high altitude 5000m+ (16,500ft+) Guests must be prepared to train seriously pre-departure and be ready to hike 8-10 hrs a day in challenging terrain. Conditions may involve snow and ice and the trip will have large days ascending and descending. Yak track 'ice tracks' will potentially be worn at times. Itineraries may be adjusted for safety reasons which may include altitude and weather conditions. Suitable for experienced hikers. The trails may include snow, ice, stairs, dirt roads, terraced fields and jungle paths.
It is likely you will to share a hotel room with a group member of the same sex unless you add the single supplement option. Single supplement is generally not possible while on the trek.
This is an all-inclusive package covering all meals, hotels, airport transfers, domestic flights, private transport, permits, expedition gear and the Heartspace team.
Not Included: International flights, travel insurance, extra nights’ accommodation and food outside of the tour dates, tipping.
'Walking with Heartspace Expeditions - you’ll have the best Nepal trek experience possible'
'The guides were locals, well connected, knowledgeable and so courteous. The accommodations in Nepal can vary a lot, but thanks to years of trekking experience, Heartspace booked us into the best-available in every village we visited'
'Care extended beyond the paying guests, and genuinely included the porters, guides and hosts along the way. Our group even stopped to assist other trekkers who needed a little encouragement to get safely to the next village'
Leave the crowds behind, navigate the longest glacier in the Himalayas, explore the ecological oasis of Gokyo Lakes and climb spectacular Gokyo Ri for an Everest sunrise from the most awe-inspiring view point in the area!
The panoramic vistas are truly breathtaking on Cho La pass. At 5420m (17780ft) this is the central pass on the ' Everest Three Passes Trek'. The pass provides spectacular views of many famous Himalayan peaks, including Cho Oyu, Lobuche, and Cholatse.
Trekking through this area exposes adventurers to the beautiful culture of the Sherpa people, offering insights into their traditions, lifestyles, and resilience in high-altitude conditions
Standing at the foot of Mount Everest, the world's tallest mountain, is a humbling and jaw dropping experience evoking a sense of wonder and reverence for the natural world.
The Heart of the Himalayas
20 Days - $4600 USD
GRADE 5 - 140km (87mi)
Day 1: WELCOME BRIEFING AND DINNER
Location: Lazimpat, Kathmandu 1400m (4600ft)
Welcome to Kathmandu, Nepal! Our hotel is conveniently located near the Thamel district, offering easy access to numerous cafes, shops, ATM's, and more. This afternoon, we'll convene for a briefing followed by a welcome dinner at one of our favorite local restaurants.
Day 2: KATHMANDU SIGHTSEEING
Location: Lazimpat, Kathmandu 1400m (4600ft)
This morning, we will visit the iconic Syambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of Kathmandu valley. Following lunch the afternoon is yours free to collect any last pieces of gear and do your final pack for the trek. This evening we will head out to one of the many quality restaurants on offer in Kathmandu.
Day 3: FLY TO LUKLA AND EXPLORE
Location: Lukla 2800m (9185ft) Fly 35min
Early this morning we take our flight to Lukla. This flight is more than just transportation; it’s an adventure in itself, setting the stage for the awe-inspiring trek. Weather conditions can be unpredictable, often causing delays or cancellations which is why we keep some flexibility in our schedule. On arrival we will explore beautiful Lukla.
Day 4: HIKE TO JORSALLE
Location: Jorsalle Village 2800m (9185ft) Hike 6h, 11km (6.8mi)
The hike from Lukla to Jorsalle is a scenic journey traversing through picturesque Sherpa villages and lush pine forests. The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River, crossing several suspension bridges and offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. As you approach Jorsalle, the path becomes more challenging with a series of ascents, providing an early taste of the trekking adventure ahead.
Day 5: HIKE TO NAMCHE BAZAAR
Location: Namche Bazaar 3440m (11285ft) Hike 3-4h, 2km (1.2mi)
The trail crosses over the Dudh Koshi River twice including over the famous Hillary bridge. There are steep ascents through dense forests and the trail offers your first view of Everest. As we reach Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa capital, you will be greeted with the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling mountain town.
Day 6: ACCLIMATIZATION HIKE TO KHUMJUNG
Location: Khumjung Village 3790m (12435ft) Hike 4hrs, 3km (1.8mi)
The hike from Namche Bazaar to Khumjung is a half day and used to help with acclimatization. After a steady ascent offering panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam the trail leads through rhododendron forests and traditional Sherpa villages, culminating in the picturesque village of Khumjung, home to the famous Khumjung Monastery and the Hillary School.
Day 7: HIKE TO DOLE
Location: Dole Village 4200m (13780ft) Hike 6h, 9km (6mi)
Today's trek begins with a decent then gradual ascent through alpine meadows and rhododendron forests. Along the trail, trekkers can enjoy stunning views of the Khumbila and Taboche peaks before reaching the charming village of Dole nestled amidst the high Himalayas.
Day 8: HIKE TO MACHHERMO
Location: Machhermo village 4470m (14670ft) Hike 5h, 6km (3.7mi)
The trek from Dole to Machhermo involves ascending through rugged terrain and past glacial lakes. As you ascend, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, including 6th highest Cho Oyu 8188m (26864ft), before arriving at the tranquil village of Machhermo nestled in the heart of the Everest region.
Day 9: HIKE TO GOKYO LAKES
Location: Gokyo Lakes Village 4790m (15715ft) Hike 5h, 8km (5mi)
The hike from Machhermo to Gokyo Lakes is a scenic journey ascending steadily through rocky terrain and alongside glacial streams. As you approach Gokyo Lakes, the landscape transforms into a stunning alpine oasis, with pristine turquoise lakes set against the backdrop of towering Himalayan peaks.
Day 10: SUNRISE HIKE TO GOKYO RI 5360m (17585ft) Hike 4h, 4km (2.5mi)
This is an early start day for good reason. The ascent to Gokyo Ri from Gokyo Lakes is a steep and exhilarating climb that offers unparalleled panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, including Everest, Lhotse, and Cho Oyu. We return the same way for an early lunch at our Gokyo Lakes lodge.
CROSS NGOZUMPA GLACIER TO THANNAK
Location: Thannak Hamlet 4700m (15420ft) Hike 4h, 4km (2.5mi)
Crossing the Ngozumpa Glacier to Thannak is a challenging yet awe-inspiring journey that involves navigating through a maze of towering ice formations and crevasses, with careful steps taken to ensure safety. We are treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the glacial landscape,.
Day 11: HIKE CHO LA PASS 5420m (17780ft) TO DZONGLA
Location: Dzongla 4860m (15950ft) Hike 10h, 15km (9mi)
Its Cho La pass day! We start before daylight on the strenuous and exhilarating hike involving steep ascents over rocky terrain and a challenging traverse across the glaciated pass. The day is full of awe-inspiring views of snow-capped peaks and untouched alpine landscapes. After crossing the pass and the long decent we arrive at the village of Dzongla.
Day 12: HIKE TO LOBUCHE
Location: Lobuche Village 4910m (16100ft) Hike 3h, 6.5km (4mi)
Today is a shorter and more moderate trek traversing across rocky terrain and glacial moraines with occasional steep ascents. We will have striking views of the Khumbu Glacier and surrounding peaks. Our trail links with the Khumbu valley and main Everest Base camp trail as we reach the quaint village of Lobuche for lunch and a relaxing afternoon.
Day 13: HIKE TO GORAP SHEP Hike 3h, 4.5km (2.8mi)
Today we traverse through rugged terrain and rocky moraines surrounded by stunning views of towering peaks and the vast Khumbu Glacier. We arrive at Gorak Shep, the last village before Everest Base Camp (EBC) for an early lunch.
HIKE EBC RETURN TO GORAP SHEP Hike 5h, 6km (3.7mi)
Location: Gorak Shep 5160m (16930ft)
The afternoon hike to EBC navigates a rocky and sometimes icy trail, passing through the dramatic Khumbu Glacier moraine. Upon reaching Everest Base Camp, located at an altitude of about 5,364 meters (17,598 feet), you are rewarded with stunning views of the Khumbu Ice-fall and the towering peaks of the Everest region. Congratulations! After a photo opportunity we retrace our steps back to Gorak Shep.
Day 14: HIKE TO PERICHE
Location: Periche Village 4240m (13910ft) Hike 6h, 14km (8.7mi)
This morning is another early 3am start for those willing to climb Kala Pattar for sunrise. It is an incredible view! After returning to our lodge for breakfast we begin our descent. As the trail winds its way down back through Lobouche and onto the glaciated valley below we pass through picturesque seasonal Yak grazing farms. Upon reaching the welcoming atmosphere of Periche village you will be ready for a hot shower and the extra oxygen of the lower altitudes.
Day 15: HIKE TO DEBOUCHE
Location: Debouche Village 3820m (12530ft) Hike 4 h, 9km (5.7mi)
Today we meander through scenic valleys and alongside the glistening Dudh Koshi River. We will pass through charming Sherpa settlements and enjoy stunning views of beautiful Ama Dablam mountain. We arrive at the tranquil village of Debouche, home to the historic Tengboche Monastery.
Day 16: HIKE TO JORSALLE
Location: Jorsalle Village 2800m (9185ft) Hike 6-7h, 11km (6.8mi)
It feels great to be back in lower altitudes but the big hiking days are not quite done yet. We wind our way through lush forests and cross the Dudh Khosi once more. Keep a look out for Himalaya Thar, a type of high altitude mountain goat. After a big descent and ascent we arrive in Namche Bazaar. Following lunch we descend to the Hillary bridge once more and return to Jorsalle for the evening.
Day 17: HIKE TO LUKLA
Location: Lukla Village 2800m (9185ft) Hike 6h, 11km (6.8mi)
The hike traverses through diverse landscapes including forests, suspension bridges, and rocky terrain. As we make our way back towards Lukla, you'll be treated to glimpses of familiar landmarks and villages. A final climb and arrival in Lukla marks the conclusion of an EPIC journey in the Everest region. Tonight we celebrate with the Heartspace team!
Day 18: FLY TO KATHMANDU
Location: Lazimpat, Kathmandu City 1400m (4600ft)
This morning we take the return flight to Kathmandu. Occasionally delays or cancellations due to weather may affect our schedule, so we've taken this into consideration when planning our itinerary. Upon reaching Kathmandu, we'll transfer to the hotel for long, relaxing hot showers before gathering for dinner.
Day 19: FREE DAY IN KATHMANDU AND FINAL DINNER CELEBRATION
Location: Lazimpat, Kathmandu City 1400m (4600ft)
We keep this day free in case of flight delays from Lukla
Today is yours to relax before we meet for our final dinner celebration at one of our favorite restaurants. Take advantage of the many spas for a massage or complete your souvenir shopping. Lunch is yours free to EXPLORE!!
*You may wish to take advantage of today to visit some of the UNESCO sites around Kathmandu Valley such as Kathmandu Durbar Square, the ancient Kingdom of Latipur, Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath cremation temples.
Day 20: DEPARTURE DAY
As your journey in Nepal comes to an end, we bid farewell and hope that your experience with Heartspace Expeditions has brought awareness and gratitude to your life. Our transfer vehicle will drop you at the airport with plenty of time to catch your departing flights. Thank you for joining the Heartspace Expeditions family.