In this video we'll outline the main trekking options in the Mount Everest region.
First, you'll need to know where Mount Everest is located.
Mount Everest is located in the Sagarmatha National Park just north of Lukla -- the starting point for almost every trek in this region. Lukla is located east of Kathmandu and reached by 35 minute flight. Flying is really the only way to get there.
There are three main treks conducted in and around the Mount Everest region:
• Short treks into the high foothills that provide spectacular views of the snow-capped mountains and views of the summit peak of Mount Everest itself.
• Direct treks to the Mount Everest Base Camp at the foot of the mountain.
• Much longer treks that complete a circuit loop to Mount Everest Base Camp via the spectacular Gokyo Lakes and Cho La high pass.
While some trekking is still required, unless you choose the helicopter option, it is possible to glimpse the summit of Mount Everest from the comfort of luxury hotel accommodation.
A day or two walk from Lukla will get you to one of the hotels vantage points to glimpse Mount Everest. Even from this distance the mountain views are spectacular. So this trek option might be of interest to those with limited time or concerns about fitness and the dangers of altitude sickness.
The direct trek from Lukla to Mount Everest base Camp and return is by far the most popular trek itinerary in Nepal.
These treks all start from Lukla and take about 12 to 14 days to return to Lukla.
Some solid days of walking are required, however, there will normally be at least two rest days on the outbound journey at help your body adjust the to the high altitude and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
So the trek starts at 2,800m altitude, over 9,000 feet at Lukla and reaches 5,300m or 17,400 feet at the Everest Base Camp. This is very high and good fitness and careful altitude acclimatization is required for a safe and comfortable trek. Accommodation options are many and varied along this route. There are also many options for side-treks and experiencing local festivals and religious centre along this route -- just contact us here at Langtang Ri for more information on these many options.
The third and most spectacular and physically challenging trekking option is the extended trek to Mount Everest Base Camp via the Gokyo Lakes and the Cho la Pass. This is a long trek into the heart of the Sagarmatha National park and its most spectacular scenery.
The trek starts and ends in Lukla and traverses the very high Cho la Pass as it heads over to the Khumbu Glacier Valley. This is a very challenging pass at an altitude of nearly 5,400m, or 17,700 feet and should only be attempted with the assistance of an experienced guide. However, the experience and stunning scenery reward the effort this trek requires.
Probably best to plan your Everest treks for Spring or Autumn, this avoids the mid-summer monsoon season when rain.
