Current as of: September 1, 2024 - 05:49
Current as of: September 1, 2024 - 05:49
5 out of 7 - Challenging
Take one of the world’s classic treks: to the most iconic base camp of all, at the foot of Mount Everest (29,029ft/8,848m). This special departure has the added excitement of camping at Base Camp for two nights, a magnificent setting near the Khumbu Ice Fall, at a time when it bustles with expedition parties preparing for their summit attempts. The journey to Base Camp passes through Sherpa country and allows time to acclimatise before reaching the spectacular high-altitude scenery: the incredible Thyangboche monastery, views of Ama Dablam, Everest and other mighty Himalayan peaks.
Valerie Parkinson, winner of the Wanderlust World Guide Awards 2021, is leading the 10 April 2025 departure.
Why trek with Exodus?
Highlights
This trip is rated Activity Level 5 (Challenging). For more information on our trip gradings please visit the Activity Level Guidelines page and walking and trekking fitness training guide. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.
It is ideal for physically fit and healthy travellers looking to tackle one of the world’s great treks. An adventurous spirit helps too.
There are 14 days of walking with full porterage throughout – you need only carry your backpack for the day.
Worth knowing
These expedition departures offer the opportunity to spend two nights camping at Everest Base Camp – there is always the possibility of snow at Base Camp and it is cold in the mornings and evenings and below freezing at night. We arrive at Base Camp early afternoon and then have the rest of the day and the following day to explore. The setting is spectacular: set at 17,715ft (5,400m) at the foot of the Khumbu Ice Fall. Huge ice seracs surround the camp and the peaks of Pumori, Lingtren and Khumbutse tower above us. We have chosen dates when many expeditions attempt Everest and the Base Camp area is bustling with activity as groups prepare for their summit attempt. We stay close to an expedition team to soak up the atmosphere, excitement and trepidation of Base Camp life. We should even be able to watch teams climb up through the notorious Khumbu Ice Fall. We are not allowed onto the Khumbu Ice Fall (only climbers with permits are allowed). Please note: Anyone suffering from a cold or infection will be asked to stay at the lodge in Gorak Shep to avoid infecting a climber at this crucial time.
This trip includes domestic flights – please refer to the Transport section of the Trip Notes for information about flying safety in Nepal.
Nepal flight safety
Many of our treks in Nepal use domestic flights to reach the trekking areas. The mountainous Nepalese terrain is subject to changeable weather, which makes flying conditions complex and challenging, and unfortunately there are significantly more incidents here than in other countries, including fatalities. The EU highlighted the poor safety record in Nepal by including all Nepalese-registered airlines on the EU banned list, which prevents them from flying in EU airspace. While no Nepalese-registered airlines currently fly within the EU, the EU instigated this ban to highlight the risk of flying in Nepal to EU citizens. Nepalese airlines are unlikely to be members of any internationally recognised safety audit systems and the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) of Nepal does not operate to the same standards as those of Western nations.
Flying within Nepal is therefore a known risk, and we strongly encourage you to consider this carefully before booking. We suggest you refer to the following sources:
In response to concerns over this safety record, Exodus arranges for independent air-safety auditors to visit Nepal annually to assess the suitability of the available carriers. We then restrict our use to only those approved as part of this audit. In emergency situations, we will need to use helicopters, so we also have a list of approved helicopter carriers. Should concerns arise regarding the safety of an airline on our approved list, we will remove the carrier from the list immediately; it would only be reinstated once our air-safety auditors are confident the airline meets acceptable safety standards.
We appreciate you may have concerns about flying within Nepal, so we ask that you please consider all the information above when deciding to book this trip.
Internal flight delays
Adverse weather conditions at Lukla airport occasionally mean that flights to/from Manthali or Kathmandu cannot operate. Please read the Important Information section of the Trip Notes for more information.
The group is generally between four and 16 people.
We have representatives in Kathmandu who look after your transfers to and from the airport and are around to answer other questions you may have about your trek.
The departure starting in Kathmandu on 10 April 2025 will be led by Valerie Parkinson who has been leading treks in the Himalaya for more than 35 years. Valerie was the first British woman to summit Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world. She will share her mountaineering experience, including talking about her own Everest summit expedition and Everest North Col Expedition with you along the way! Valerie won Best Tour Leader in the prestigious annual Wanderlust World Guide Awards in 2021.
All other departures have an English-speaking Nepali tour leader throughout, who is assisted by Nepali trekking guides. All Exodus leaders are highly experienced, trained in wilderness first aid, and have taken the Exodus leader training courses. The trekking guides are licensed by the Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) and receive additional training through Exodus. The trekking guides will walk with the group, spacing themselves out to ensure the pace is appropriate for careful acclimatisation and to ensure the safety of all trekkers in the group, helping those who may need some encouragement or support.
On all our Nepal treks, there will be one trek staff to every four travellers – this ratio may change if a guide has to stay behind with a group member. The leaders are assisted by additional guides and as many porters or dzos (cow-yak hybrids) as necessary to carry the kitbags. All your main gear is carried for you and you only have to carry whatever you require for that day’s trek. Dzos carry four client kitbags each and porters carry two – kitbags should be 22lb (10kg) maximum. Porters are given porter clothing for treks above 14,765ft (4,500m), which includes a windproof jacket and trousers, boots, socks, gloves, hats and sunglasses. All trekking staff are insured by our local partner in Nepal.
Adult min age: 16
Min group size: 4
Max group size: 16
The group flight is an overnight flight departing London this evening.
The tour starts at the Royal Singi Hotel, which has hosted countless numbers of our trekkers over the years. There is a full trek briefing this evening, in which we gather as a group for the first time and go over any questions you may have. Rest up, we begin our trek to Everest Base Camp tomorrow.
Accommodation: Royal Singi Hotel (or similar)
We have a very early start this morning to drive (approximately four hours) to Manthali Airport (RHP) where all Lukla flights now operate from. We leave our hotel at approximately 3am to ensure we arrive in Manthali in time for the first morning flights to Lukla. The hotel provides a packed breakfast for the journey.
We then fly to the mountain airstrip of Lukla (9,190ft/2,800m), and set off on the first short leg of our trek, heading north up the valley of the Dudh Kosi (Milk River). We descend from the small plateau into the forested valley. The trail offers tantalising views of green, hilly terrain before reaching the settlement of Phakding, where we spend our first night.
Accommodation: Teahouse (altitude: 8,701ft/2,652m)
Heading out of Phakding, we follow the Dudh Kosi north. Today’s walk takes us through magnificent forests with glimpses of the mountains ahead. We cross the river several times by bridge as we pass through the villages of Benkar, Monzo and Jorsale. A final bridge brings us to the foot of the steep climb to Namche. Halfway up the ascent, we may get our first glimpse (cloud permitting) of the Everest summit behind the great ridge of Nuptse-Lhotse. A last 985ft (300m) climb brings us to Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa capital and the main town in the area, which get can explore properly on our return from Base Camp. Namche is a prosperous Sherpa town and an important trading centre. It has a weekly market on Friday afternoons and Saturday mornings, but the town always bustles with trekkers, coffee shops, bakeries and stores selling all kinds of trekking and climbing gear and Tibetan souvenirs.
Accommodation: Teahouse (altitude: 11,285ft/3,440m)
We climb steeply out of Namche past the airstrip at Shyangboche to the Everest View Hotel, the highpoint of our day at 12,730ft (3,880m). Built by the Japanese, this spectacularly situated hotel with wonderful views of Everest and Ama Dablam is an ideal place for a tea break.
En route to the Everest View Hotel, you have the option to stop at the Sagarmatha Next experience centre and learn about the work this local organisation is doing to tackle waste pollution on the mountain trails and how you can help.
Descending through forest, we come to Khumjung, where we have lunch close to the Sir Edmund Hillary School. After, we walk up to Kunde and visit the Edmund Hillary Hospital. The twin villages of Kunde and Khumjung are below Khumbila, the rocky peak sacred to all Sherpas. For much of the walk, we have great views of Ama Dablam and other Himalaya giants. We walk back down through Khumjumg to the monastery. Sadly, it was damaged in the earthquake but is now being repaired. Inside is a small box and, after paying the entry fee (which goes towards the repairs), we are shown the only yeti skull in the world. Descending to the main trail, we spend the night at Kyanjuma.
Accommodation: Teahouse (altitude: 11,810ft/3,600m)
This morning, we descend to the river. We cross at the little settlement of Phunki Thangkha (10,665ft/3,250m), then climb steeply through the forest to Thyangboche (12,867ft/3,867m). We arrive by lunchtime and visit the famous monastery in the afternoon. The sunset and sunrise over the mountains is not to be missed – Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse and Ama Dablam provide a wonderful backdrop to our teahouse. Look out for Himalayan tahr, a native wild goat, in the forest surrounding the monastery.
Accommodation: Teahouse (altitude: 12,700ft/3,870m)
We descend through the forest to Devoche and, a little further on, cross the rushing Imja Khola, whose valley we now follow. Climbing steadily, the trail enters Pangboche (12,795ft/3,900m), the highest permanent settlement in this valley. Ascending, we have lunch at Shomore, after which we leave the trees and cross a wooden bridge at the confluence of the Khumbu and Imja rivers. A short, steep climb brings us to Dingboche (14,270ft/4,350m), a summer settlement where great peaks surround us.
Accommodation: Teahouse (altitude: 14,270ft/4,350m)
We spend the day at Dingboche to continue our acclimatisation. Those adapting well to the altitude can climb Nangkartshang Peak (16,730ft/5,100m) for great views of Makalu, Lhotse, Chalotse, Tawoche and Ama Dablam. There is the option to climb halfway up or, if you’re feeling energetic, it takes about 3hr 30min to the top. It’s a tough, steep climb but well worth the effort for the amazing views. We return to Dingboche for a late lunch. The rest of the afternoon is free to relax and acclimatise.
Accommodation: Teahouse
The trail climbs steeply out of Dingboche, past a chorten (Buddhist shrine), and ascends the valley gradually to Dugla at the end of the terminal moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. We stop here for a tea break and snack before the steep climb to Chukpo Lari, a beautiful, poignant place with a line of memorials to climbers who have died on Everest and a beautiful panorama of the peaks on the Nepal-Tibet border. The trail then eases off as we follow the valley to Lobuje, a tiny hamlet with a few teahouses. In the late afternoon, there is the option to walk up onto the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. Sunset on Nuptse is not to be missed.
Accommodation: Teahouse (altitude: 16,175ft/4,930m)
We leave early, following the Khumbu Glacier northwards to Gorak Shep (17,008ft/5,184m). The trail rolls up and down along the moraine with some short, steep sections. The trail is rocky as we are now on the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. It takes us about three hours to reach Gorak Shep, where we have a rest and something to eat.
In the afternoon, we climb steeply above Gorak Shep to the small peak of Kala Pattar (Black Rock) at 18,192ft (5,545m), from where we can look over the base camps of the various Everest expeditions. This climb affords a magnificent view of the Khumbu Glacier and, above all, a close-up view of the highest mountain in the world. We return to Gorak Shep for the night.
Please note, accommodation options are extremely limited at Gorak Shep and the teahouse is very basic, though the communal dining area is warm and the food served promptly to satisfy trekkers’ appetites. Because of the high altitude, the plumbing facilities can be affected and water freezes much of the time.
Accommodation: Teahouse (altitude: 17,008ft/5,184m)
We start by walking across the sandy flat at Gorak Shep and climb onto the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. The trail ascends the side of the glacier for a couple of hours before finally descending onto the rocky glacial moraine itself. The trail winds up and down through fascinating ice seracs to the area known as Everest Base Camp. We walk past the Base Camp Rock (17,390ft/5,300m), which is covered in prayer flags and where the normal trekking groups visit, and continue through the rocky moraine into the actual base camp – a significant moment for adventure lovers the world over!
We get to our camp by lunchtime and the afternoon is free to gaze in awe at our surroundings. From Base Camp, we get close-up views of the Khumbu Ice Fall and can appreciate just how difficult it is for climbers to negotiate through the huge ice blocks. Nuptse towers above us and Pumori rears behind.
Accommodation: Full-service camping (sleeping altitude: 17,715ft/5,400m)
We spend this morning at Everest Base Camp with time to absorb the way of life on expeditions. We have a walk around Base Camp and through some of the ice seracs. Meet Sherpa guides preparing to climb and you may well be able to watch climbers as they ascend the Khumbu Ice Fall and can visit the Everest ER medical tent if it is there and if they are quiet. After an early lunch in camp, we say goodbye to the adventurers ready to climb the mighty mountain as we return to Gorak Shep for the evening.
Accommodation: Teahouse (altitude: 17,008ft/5,184m)
This morning before packing up, you have another chance to get up to Kala Pattar if you didn’t manage to make it on day 9. We retrace our steps down to Lobuje for lunch. After a rest, we continue through the valley to the lower altitude of Pheriche for the night. Once we reach the valley bottom, it is an easy walk along into the village of Pheriche.
Accommodation: Teahouse (altitude: 13,921ft/4,243m)
Descending through Pheriche, we cross a small bridge and have a short climb before descending to join the main Imja Khola valley. We follow the valley down to Pangboche through an alpine meadow landscape. We drop down to the rushing river then walk through peaceful rhododendron forests to the village of Devoche from where we climb back up to Thyangboche on the ridge for lunch. We descend off the ridge to Phunki Tenga and walk back up to Kyanjuma, where we spend the night.
Accommodation: Teahouse (altitude: 11,810ft/3,600m)
The walk to Namche Bazaar takes us along a beautiful rolling trail high above the Dudh Kosi. We have time in Namche and, after lunch, descend through Namche Bazaar and pick up our outward trail again to Monzo, where we stay tonight.
Accommodation: Teahouse (altitude: 9,350ft/2,850m)
We retrace our steps to Chaunrikhara, where we start the last climb to the airstrip at Lukla.
Accommodation: Teahouse (altitude: 9,185ft/2,800m)
We fly back to Manthali airport on one of the first flights of the day (approximately 7am to 7.30am) to allow for the five to six-hour bus transfer back to Kathmandu arriving in the city for mid to late afternoon.
Accommodation: Royal Singi Hotel
Today is free for sightseeing in Kathmandu (it is also a spare day to allow for any delays in the flights to/from Lukla). You may wish to visit the monkey temple at Swayambunath, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world at Bodnath, or the most important Hindu temple in the valley at Pashupatinath. We offer a full range of sightseeing tours, which can be booked and paid for locally. Please see the Optional Excursions section within the Trip Notes or the Exodus noticeboard in the hotel in Kathmandu.
Accommodation: Royal Singi Hotel
The tour comes to an end after breakfast, so it’s time to start your return journey home. If you’d like a little more time to explore Kathmandu, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.
The tour ends in after breakfast. Those on the group flights will be transferred to the airport in time for the daytime flight back to London.
Altitude warning
This trip includes one or more nights over 11,480ft (3,500m) above sea level, where there is a genuine risk of being affected by acute mountain sickness (AMS). If left untreated, AMS can be life-threatening. We expect most clients to experience some mild symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches, shortness of breath while walking or sleeplessness. Our leaders are trained to identify symptoms of severe AMS and if a client requires extra care, arrangements such as rapid descent, will be made immediately.
On some days, this trip climbs faster than commonly published ascent-rate recommendations. Based upon an assessment by our external safety and medical advisors and our risk-assessment process, we consider the ascent rate acceptable due to the additional safety measures in place for our customers. All our trips operating at high altitude meet our internal altitude-safety standards, which minimise the risk of serious incidents occurring while travelling at altitude.
Several medical conditions or medications can reduce your body’s ability to acclimatise. This may affect your performance and make you more susceptible to AMS. If you are worried about any pre-existing conditions, such as heart conditions, or your overall physical ability, you must seek medical advice prior to booking. The drug Diamox (also known as acetazolamide and normally only available on prescription) has been shown to aid acclimatisation in some individuals, and therefore may reduce the risk of AMS. Clients considering using Diamox should speak to their doctor about the drug, its side-effects and a prescription. While we endeavour to assist all our clients in achieving their goals, there may be times when your leader decides to delay or stop your ascent based on your overall condition or the onset of AMS.
If you are not taking out Exodus Travel Insurance, make sure your policy covers you up to the maximum altitude on this trip (if trekking in the Himalaya your policy should also cover the use of a helicopter for emergency medical evacuation).
Ascents, descents and distances: All ascents, descents and distances listed in the daily itinerary have been measured by our local partners or tour leaders, in many cases with satellite-based mapping software. However, different GPS measuring devices can give differing results, particularly on winding paths or in mountainous terrain. Measurements stated throughout these Trips Notes are given to help you understand the types of terrain and distances you will encounter. Timings stated will vary depending on the pace of your group.
This tour spends three nights in a hotel in Kathmandu, 13 nights in lodges (teahouses) and one nights full-service camping at Everest Base Camp. Mattresses are provided for the two camping nights and you sleep in tents pitched on the glacial moraine. There is a dining tent with chairs and a basic heater, toilet tents and full camp staff. All food and hot drinks, snacks and water are provided while camping.
Hotel Royal Singi, Kathmandu
The Hotel Royal Singi, a three-star hotel, has been welcoming Exodus travellers for more than two decades. The name is inspired by the Snow Lion, a mythical creature in Tibetan Buddhism, which symbolises immense joy, positivity, delight and comfort. The hotel embraces the name with a restaurant, bar, outdoor courtyard, and complimentary wifi throughout. There’s also an Exodus desk in the lobby and an Exodus representative is usually available daily in the mornings and evenings. The Royal Singi is well located near the Thamel district, close to banks, restaurants, shops and attractions.
Teahouses in the Everest region
Staying in teahouses is a time-honoured tradition for expeditions to Everest Base Camp and, in fact, most hiking trips within the Himalaya. They may be basic, but teahouses become a welcome sight after a day of hiking through the region. The hub of teahouse living is the dining room, which is usually decorated with colourful, traditional rugs, sometimes with a stove or heater (some lodges charge a fee to put the heater on). Most teahouses sell snacks and other essentials such as tissues, soap and toilet paper.
We stay in twin-share bedrooms, which come with foam mattresses, bedsheets and a pillow. Remember to bring (or hire) a sleeping bag, rooms are unheated so can get cold at night.
Below are a couple of the teahouses we typically use en route.
Green Tara Hotel, Namche Bazaar
The Green Tara Hotel is one of our most popular teahouses on the Everest trail, offering cosy accommodation and warm hospitality. The comforts of a hot shower, delicious Sherpa cuisine and a snug dining space allow you to relax during your stay. The restaurant, wifi, charging ports and warm lounge enhance your experience, while the breathtaking views of Namche Bazaar and Himalaya mountains certainly leave a lasting memory.
Ama Dablam Lodge
One of our most-liked lodges in the Everest region, with an amazing view to Ama Dablam (we usually have breakfast on the terrace looking across to this beautiful mountain). You will also enjoy true Sherpa hospitality here thanks to Tashi Sherpa and her family. Tashi also runs a bakery, so make sure you try her famous fresh apple pie and homemade cookies.
Worth knowing
Extra accommodation
If you require additional accommodation in Kathmandu, either before or after the tour, we can book this for you (subject to availability). Please enquire with your sales representative.
Single accommodation
If you prefer your own room, we offer a single supplement for the hotel nights in Kathmandu only (subject to availability). While in the teahouses, single rooms cannot be guaranteed so these have not been included in the single supplement price paid in advance. However, if a single room is available on arrival to a tea-house, you can pay locally on a day-by-day basis.
Single supplement from £ 150
All breakfasts, two lunches and two dinners are included.
In the teahouses, breakfast will be a choice of bread (a slice of toast, chapatti or Tibetan bread), egg (boiled, fried or omelette), and either muesli or porridge each day. Hot tea/coffee is also served. On some days, there will not be a choice for breakfast and either a trekkers breakfast (egg, hash brown, baked beans and toast) or a pancake with jam/honey will be served. You may also be able to supplement your included breakfast with additional items on the teahouse menu should you wish – additional items not included in the set menu should be ordered and paid for separately.
Please note, some more remote teahouses/lodges are unable to provide an extensive menu due to irregular delivery schedules. During periods of bad weather or a high volume of trekkers, there may be a more limited menu choice. Also, the menus and extras are generally more expensive at higher altitudes.
Lunches are taken at a teahouse en route – sometimes one of your guides will go ahead with the group’s order to make it more expedient. Dinner is in the same teahouse you sleep at (this is custom in Nepal as teahouses base their room rate on it).
Although most lodges have almost identical menus, they are reasonably extensive and offer a varied selection, ranging from traditional Nepalese dhal bhat to pizza and apple pie. Dhal bhat is the staple diet in Nepal and comes in many different forms but generally comprises curried lentils and meat or vegetables, some rice, and a pickle/chutney. Another popular snack is momos: a Nepalese dumpling (fried or steamed) that’s filled with meat or vegetables.
Meat is available in the teahouses but we advise against eating it. Meat is often carried in the heat for several days before reaching the lodges and can cause stomach upsets or illness. Germs can also be spread by handling dirty money – we recommend using hand sanitiser.
Dietary requirements
Gluten-free diets: We strongly recommend you bring extra food and snacks with you to supplement the food on trek as there will be little variety available to you, particularly for breakfast. Even many of the soups are powdered and contain gluten. Gluten-free breakfast options are limited to vegetable fried rice and a choice of egg. On specific days only, a trekkers breakfast (without the toast/with an extra egg) will be served.
Vegan diets: Breakfasts are limited to a choice of muesli/porridge made with water each day, and on specific days only, a trekkers breakfast (without the egg) or vegetable fried rice.
Lactose-free diet: The same will apply although you will also have a choice of egg each day.
If you buy imported food and drink on trek, you will spend more than the suggested amount.
Drinking water
Staying hydrated is important when undertaking any physical activity but particularly so at altitude where it is generally recommended to drink at least 0.7gal to 1gal (three to four litres) per person per day.
We strongly encourage you not to buy bottled water on trek as this contributes to the growing problem of plastic pollution in Nepal.
The teahouses sell boiled water for approximately 150-300 Nepalese rupees (US$1.15-US$2.30) per litre (the price increases the higher you trek), which should not require treating. This is also perfect for a bedtime refill as it can double as a hot-water bottle.
Alternatively, all teahouses provide free cold water. This should not be drunk untreated, so we recommend you bring a reusable bottle/water bladder/CamelBak (ideally two and wide mouth) and use an effective form of water treatment. There are a wide range of products available including Steripens or purification tablets, which are the quickest and easiest options to use on trek – we recommend talking to an outdoor retailer for the latest advice as technologies are improving all the time. Make sure to check the product’s performance in cold/freezing conditions and consider battery life (lithium batteries are best in cold conditions).
Exodus has partnered with Water-to-Go, a filtration system that eliminates more than 99.99 percent of all microbiological contaminants from any non-saltwater source – visit Water-to-Go for more information. Exodus customers can claim 15 percent off their first order and, better still, 15 percent of the purchase value will be donated to the Exodus Travels Foundation. These bottles filter the water as you drink, though the spout may not be the most efficient while moving on trek. Please note, if the water freezes it will clog up the filter. In this event, defrost before use by sitting the filter in lukewarm water for 10-15 minutes.
For airport transfers, we use a private minibus. Flights to/from Lukla are usually in a Twin Otter or Dornier plane.
This trekking trip requires you to walk between each overnight stay under your own steam. Other forms of transport may be available along the route (horses, 4x4s etc) but Exodus cannot take responsibility for the safety or cost of any transport that you choose to take, even if provided with the assistance of our leader or staff.
Nepal flight safety
Many of our treks in Nepal use domestic flights to reach the trekking areas. The mountainous Nepalese terrain is subject to changeable weather, which makes flying conditions complex and challenging; unfortunately, there are significantly more incidents here than in other countries, including fatalities. The EU highlighted the poor safety record in Nepal in 2013 by including all Nepalese-registered airlines on the EU banned list, which prevents them from flying in EU airspace. While no Nepalese-registered airlines currently fly within the EU, the EU instigated this ban to highlight the risk of flying in Nepal to EU citizens. These airlines are unlikely to be members of any internationally recognised safety audit systems and the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) of Nepal does not operate to the same standards as those of Western nations.
Flying within Nepal is therefore a known risk and we strongly encourage you to consider this carefully before booking. We suggest you refer to the following sources:
In response to concerns over this safety record, Exodus arranges for independent air-safety auditors to visit Nepal annually to assess the suitability of the available carriers. We then restrict our use to only those approved as part of this audit. In emergency situations, we will need to use helicopters, so we also have a list of approved helicopter carriers. Should concerns arise regarding the safety of an airline on our approved list, we will remove the carrier from the list immediately, and it would only be reinstated once our air-safety auditors are confident the airline meets acceptable safety standards.
We appreciate you may have concerns about flying within Nepal, so we ask that you please consider all the information above when deciding to book this trip.
The main trekking season in Nepal is from October to mid-May when daytime temperatures at most altitudes are generally comfortable for walking, the sky is clear much of the time and rain and snow are occasional occurrences. Daytime temperatures will vary from 15C to 35C (59F to 95F) in the Kathmandu Valley to around 10C (50F) at 11,810ft (3,600m) and progressively lower the higher we go. Different seasons offer different advantages for trekking.
Post-monsoon/autumn: Mid-September to November
The main trekking season in Nepal. Day temperatures in Kathmandu are approximately above 20C (68F). Skies are usually clear and days on trek are sunny and mild with clear mountain views. Nights will be colder with temperatures dropping as low as -10C (14F) at the highest altitudes.
Winter: December to end of February
Despite the cooler conditions, this is an ideal time to trek in Nepal. Skies are usually very clear, especially in December, and the mountain views are at their best. Nights are very cold with temperatures down to -20C (-4F) at the highest altitudes but days are pleasant and sunny. The trails are also much less busy at this time of year. In Kathmandu, maximum daytime temperatures are 19C (66F).
Pre-monsoon/spring: March to May
Both day and night temperatures are warmer in general but often a haze builds in the afternoons. It is very hot in the lowlands and temperatures rise to 35C (95F) in Kathmandu. Flowers bloom in this season, one of the reasons people chose to trek in spring.
Snow should be expected on any departure, usually at the higher altitudes.
Please remember, the weather is never wholly predictable in any mountain area, and you should be equipped to deal with any differences in weather beyond the conditions described above.
Start hotel: Royal Singi Hotel, Lal Durbar, Kamaladi, Kathmandu
Phone: +977 144 24190
Recommended arrival time: You can arrive at any time today. There will be a welcome briefing in the evening, but if you miss it the leader will update you separately
Airport: Kathmandu Airport (KTM)
The start hotel is approximately 10 minutes’ drive from the airport. Exodus provides free arrival transfers to the start hotel from the airport for all customers.
If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Exodus provides free departure transfers for all customers to Kathmandu Airport (KTM) from the end hotel.
Please note, unless specified otherwise, the transfers will be to the start (or pre-tour) hotel and from the end (or post-tour) hotel and will be on the date on which the tour starts/ends; transfers to other hotels in the same city and/or on different dates may attract an extra charge. Transfers should be booked with your sales representative at least two weeks before the tour starts.
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
Location start: Kathmandu
Location end: Kathmandu
It is essential you have suitable clothing and equipment for your trek to protect against the elements and trail conditions. Please download our Everest region kit list for reference.
All luggage for the trek should be packed in a soft kitbag/Exodus kitbag. Many people find it easiest to pack the kitbag inside a wheelie case, which can be left at the Kathmandu hotel free of charge with anything not needed for the trek, while the kitbag is carried by your porter on the trek.
When packing, please consider the quantities/volume of the items you bring. Consider decanting larger toiletries into small reusable bottles to limit weight and volume (do not bring full-size bottles), take a lightweight travel towel etc. Animals are usually used for porterage and each carries four kitbags (where human porters are used, they carry two bags each), therefore please limit your kitbag to 22lb (10kg) maximum per person. There is also a weight restriction on the flight to/from Lukla of 22lb (10kg) checked baggage plus 11lb (5kg) hand luggage. If your check-in luggage exceeds this, there is an excess luggage charge (approximately US$1.20 per kilogram).
Your leader weighs each bag before departing Kathmandu and may ask those with overweight bags to remove non-essential items to leave in Kathmandu.
There can be unseasonal snowfall on any trek. You may want to bring a pair of Yaktrax (mini-crampons) or similar if you have a pair. If your leader thinks there may be snowfall, they will recommend carrying a pair for safety. It is possible to buy them in Kathmandu or Namche cheaply.
We recommend bringing at least one standard passport photo with you just in case. Although they are not currently required for your trekking permit or to obtain a visa on arrival (provided you use the electronic visa kiosks), regulations can change at short notice or the kiosks may be out of order (in which case a photo will be required).
It’s highly advised you carry mosquito repellent (please refer to advice on avoiding dengue fever in the Vaccination section of the Trip Notes)
Equipment hire
The following equipment can be hired through Exodus free of charge – the equipment is good quality and will keep you warm but it is bulky and you should take this into account when packing due to the porterage weight limit. Hire equipment should be requested in advance of travel to ensure availability but will be provided locally in Kathmandu.
Donations for porters, children and the elderly
If you find a spare bit of space in your bag while packing, you may be interested in donating to one of Exodus’ projects. Exodus supports a Porter Clothing Bank in Kathmandu, as well as children in local schools in Kathmandu and various villages, and a care home in Kyanjin Gompa in the upper part of the Langtang Valley. If you have any old walking gear, this can be donated to porters, and, similarly, any warm clothing or blankets would be appreciated by the care home – please leave these items with your leader or at the Exodus desk at the Royal Singi Hotel. Books, stationery, games, warm clothes/underwear etc suitable for children aged five to 18 should be taken to the Ambassador Garden Home in Thamel and given to Prakash Lammichanne. Contact number: +977 1 4700724.
Exodus kitbag: If you book this trip, we provide a free Exodus kitbag to pack your luggage in while on trek. Once you have booked, you will be sent instructions on how to claim your bag (they are not sent automatically). Please note, if you book less than three weeks before the departure date, we cannot guarantee your kitbag will arrive before your trip starts. If this is the case, please contact us on customerops@exodus.co.uk (or customeroperations@exodustravels.com if you’re based in the US or Canada). See www.exodus.co.uk/kitbags for full T&Cs.
Your passport must be valid for at least six months when you submit your application for a visa. You should also ensure your passport is up to date, is valid for the entire length of your stay and that you have completed the emergency contact details page inside your passport.
You can obtain your visa in advance or on arrival. The Immigration Department of Nepal has suspended visas on arrival for certain nationalities – please check if this applies to you with your nearest embassy or consulate.
Visa in advance
Apply for this through your local consulate or embassy. Further details on this option can be found here:
When applying for your visa in advance, the Nepalese government has an online application system (see links above for more info), but it is currently only accepting payments through Nepalese payment channels. Once the online form is completed, the applicant is required to print out the form and either send it, together with the passport, to the embassy, or attend in person.
Visa on arrival
There are no required vaccinations. However, recommended vaccinations include tetanus, typhoid, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, cholera, Japanese encephalitis, rabies and tuberculosis. You will also need a yellow fever vaccination certificate if you’re arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission or transiting for more than 12 hours through a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. Some travellers may also need proof of a polio vaccination. Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.
There is little to no risk of malaria in Nepal; therefore, antimalarial tablets are not usually advised although may be considered for certain high-risk groups. You may wish to consult your doctor or travel clinic for further advice.
Additionally, dengue fever, a tropical viral disease spread by daytime biting mosquitoes, is a known risk in Nepal with an outbreak in September 2022. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis, so take extra precautions (such as wearing full-length trousers, long sleeves and applying insect repellent during the day, dawn and dusk) to prevent being bitten.
Most of our trips to Nepal go to high altitudes where there is a risk of being affected by Acute Mountain Sickness. Our itineraries are designed to enable everyone to acclimatise to these altitudes, but you should be aware that it is still possible for you to be affected. Please refer to the Altitude Warning within the Trip Notes for further advice on AMS.
When trekking at altitude, and particularly in cold weather, there is a higher chance of developing a cough (sometimes referred to here as the Khumbu cough) or cold symptoms. These symptoms could be a result of inhaling cold mountain air or dust (in the Everest region). You can mitigate against picking up coughs and colds by washing your hands with soap and water at available opportunities and using hand sanitiser. Also wear a buff over your neck and mouth when walking at altitude, particularly in colder weather, which will help limit cold, dry air entering your airways and keep your neck and chest warm.
Ticks are known to be present in this region and can carry lyme disease, tick-borne encephalitis and other diseases. Please take care to protect yourself. You can read more about ticks here.
Nepal's time zone: Asia/Kathmandu (UTC +05:45)
Nepal’s electricity: Plug types C (two round pins, European standard), D (three round pins) and M (three round pins) – 230V, 50Hz
Planned temporary power cuts occur regularly throughout towns and cities in Nepal.
On teahouse treks, most lodges now have electricity and charging facilities in the communal areas for a fee. Battery life can be affected by cold; lithium batteries are best.
Nepal's currency: Nepalese rupee (NPR) It is illegal to import or export rupees, but foreign currency is not limited, provided it is declared on arrival. Keep your change receipts, as you will need them if you want to change rupees back into hard currency at Kathmandu airport.
There are ATMs in Kathmandu and other major towns. On trek, there is an ATM in Namche Bazaar but it often doesn’t work so please do not rely on it. You need to carry cash for the trek.
Please do not rely wholly on ATMs as many are broken or run out of money. Often there are ATM lounges (a small room with numerous ATMs). Some banks have a withdrawal limit equivalent to US$122 per time. If you need to withdraw more, you should look for another ATM with a higher limit (others have a maximum withdrawal limit equivalent to about US$368 per time) as there is usually a transaction fee.
Credit cards are accepted in many of the larger shops and restaurants in Kathmandu and in most lodges in Namche Bazaar but are no use elsewhere on trek.
We recommend taking your personal spending money in cash (US dollars, British pounds or euros can all be changed easily). Any marked, torn or damaged notes may not be accepted. Please remember, £50 notes, Scottish or Northern Irish currency cannot be changed in Nepal.
Cash can be changed easily at the airport on arrival in Kathmandu or at money changers in the Thamel area of Kathmandu. Hotels in Nepal can also change up to US$300 per person. Travellers cheques can NOT be exchanged in Nepal. Our staff will advise you about how much money to take with you on trek.
You need to withdraw/exchange enough money in Kathmandu to last the duration of your trek – to cover meals, drinks, tipping and other incidentals. It is a good idea to carry spare cash on the trek in case of an emergency. Carrying a large amount of cash is unavoidable, so we suggest splitting it up into a few different places – but remember to keep track of how much you have stashed where.
Prices of food and amenities in teahouses generally become more expensive the higher altitude/more remote you are and access to ATMs/money changes are extremely limited. Please allow 4,400-5,800 rupees (US$33-US$44) per day for lunch, dinner, snacks, drinks, showers, toilet roll and charging on trek, and for meals not included in Kathmandu. This amount is given as a rough guideline only.
Your expenditure will be towards the top end if you buy boiled water rather than treating cold water, and depending on how many hot showers you take, if you pay to charge electrical devices, drink alcohol, use wifi on the trek and so on.
Optional excursions
Several optional tours and activities are available from Kathmandu.
Prices for a half-day sightseeing tour start from 5,240 rupees (approximately US$40) per person, based on a group of six or more. For all trips, return transport and a qualified sightseeing guide are included. The price does not include lunch or entry fees. Please enquire with your leader in Kathmandu, who can provide further information.
An optional Everest sightseeing flight is available on your free day (weather permitting) from around 28,100 rupees (US$215) per person (the price is subject to change). Anyone taking an internal sightseeing flight in Nepal should pay attention to the statement ‘Flying in Nepal’.
Tipping is customary in Nepal. Your tour leader will usually offer to arrange and look after a group tipping kitty, which will be used to tip hotel porters, local guides, assistant guides, porters, and the drivers. Your leader will suggest how much to contribute, depending on group size, but a rough guideline is provided below.
Tipping of the leader is at your discretion and separate to the amount for the other staff. We suggest you send an envelope around the group at the end of the trip and you can put in what you like and give it to the leader on the last evening.
The following are guideline amounts received by each staff member from the group as a whole
Your trekking crew (tips are usually given on the last evening of the trek in Lukla)
General tipping guidelines:
To help budget for the tips, generally there will be one member of trek staff (guide/assistant) for every four travellers. You will also have one porter for every two travellers to carry your luggage. If you are unsure how much to personally budget, you can check with your tour leader when you arrive in Kathmandu. Please try to give all tips in local currency.
We work hard to create trips that improve life for the people and places we visit and look after the planet we explore. Find out more about our sustainable travel ethos and practice here, and find out about the work of the Exodus Travels Foundation here.
Some sustainable travel highlights of this trip include:
People
How this trip helps improve life for local communities.
Places
How this trip helps protect and conserve local landscapes and nature.
Planet
How we seek to keep the carbon footprint of this trip low.
Read about our climate action here, including our carbon reduction and compensation commitments.
Tips for sustainable travel on this trip
Cultural respect:
Optional activities and excursions
If you would like to join an optional activity or excursion outside those listed in the itinerary, your leader may be able to assist with selecting a provider. However, Exodus has not assessed the safety standards of activities or excursions that are not listed in the Trip Notes. All optional activities or excursions are undertaken at your own risk.
Your safe participation
When booking this trip, you should be confident in your ability to participate in all activities described in these Trip Notes. If you have any doubt about your suitability, please call the Exodus office and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary.
Although our leaders are well trained to deal with different capabilities, if they have any concerns about someone’s ability to safely take part in an activity, or their impact on other people’s enjoyment, we authorise them to take necessary action which, in some circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that activity.
By booking this trip you agree to our Booking Conditions which clearly state that our leaders have the authority to do this. In these rare instances we will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered alternative options where possible. Refunds will not be provided for activities missed and customers may be liable for additional costs incurred.
When you’re ready to book, go to our website for online bookings, book over the phone or you can complete a booking form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque.
After booking
You will receive your booking confirmation letter and invoice, which includes extra information and guidance about your travel arrangements.
Full joining instructions, including local emergency numbers and details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you approximately two to three weeks prior to departure. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier, please contact our office or your travel agent.
Trip Note validity
These Trip Notes are valid from the “Current as” date on page one. They will occasionally be updated after booking and before departure; if there are any updates that significantly impact the inclusions or itinerary, customers will be written to separately. They will also receive a link to the most up-to-date Trip Notes with their Final Joining Instructions before travelling.
The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current brochure or website, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure and website. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where necessary. Occasionally, it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a variety of reasons – climatic, political, physical or other. In these circumstances we will make the best-possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.
Licensing
Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number 2582, issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators (FTO) and ABTA – The Travel Association. This means you can book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all money paid to us for your trip is fully protected.