This relatively short but dramatic trek in the Everest region offers the chance to explore the Khumbu at its very finest. Beginning in Lukla, after a breathtakingly short, 50-minute flight from Kathmandu, the trek follows the main trail of the region, including the old Tibetan trade route, and passes through the lush pine- and rhodendron-forests of Sagarmatha National Park.
This trek has many highlights, including Thyangboche, home to one of the highest-altitude monasteries in the world. Thyangboche itself affords unparalleled views of Mount Everest rising behind the Lhotse-Nuptse wall, as well as the unbelievably beautiful Ama Dablam.
The most stunning highlight, and main focus of the trek , is Ama Dablam Base Camp, a wonderful grassy site nestled below one of the world’s most iconic mountain profiles. Well-named, Ama Dablam means Mother’s Charm Box. Ama (mother) refers to the two great ridges above base camp, which are like a mother’s enfolding arms. Dablam (charm box) is the name of a pendant worn by Sherpa women, which contains pictures of Buddhist Gods, and is represented by the huge hanging serac, high on the West Face.
The base camp is off the main trail, and after visiting there follows a circuitous route via Pangboche and Phorse, which latter is a small settlement in the Imja plateau, rich in birds and other wildlife, including Musk deer. This fascinating loop trek then crosses the river with a chance to visit Kumjung, and the first Edmund Hillary (Himalayan Trust) school, before returning, via Namche Bazaar, to Lukla.
After the return flight to Kathmandu, preparations are made for a picturesque drive to Chitwan National Park, for rest and relaxation, including an elephant foray into the jungle, a jeep safari, some lounging near or in the hotel swimming pool or in the beautiful flower-filled grounds, as well as enjoying the delicious meals and drinks available.
The adventure culminates with a flight back to the capital, and plenty of time in Kathmandu for sight seeing and souvenir shopping, as well as an optional visit to our Jamarko projects, before departure for UK.
