Everest Base Camp Trek: Scenic Flight, Sherpa Culture & Monasteries

Summary

Everest trekking adventure: Lukla flight, Namche Bazaar & Sherpa life

You’ll walk in the footsteps of mountaineering legends, fly into Lukla’s wild airport, explore Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar, visit ancient monasteries, and wake up to views of Everest that feel almost unreal. This trek isn’t just about reaching base camp—it’s about every moment along the way.

What’s the experience like?

The first time I stepped off that tiny plane at Lukla’s Tenzing Hillary Airport, my knees felt a bit wobbly—not just from the altitude, but the thrill. The air had this crisp bite, and you could smell wood smoke drifting from tea houses. Our guide, Pasang, grinned as he pointed out the narrow path winding up through pine forests. It’s not just about Everest here—the whole Khumbu region feels alive with stories.

Namche Bazaar hit me like a burst of color after hours of rocky trails. Shops selling yak cheese and knock-off North Face gear line the steep lanes. We ducked into a café for sweet milk tea—locals call it “chiya”—and watched porters hauling baskets twice their size. The Sherpa Museum is tucked just above town; it’s small but packed with old photos and gear from early expeditions. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch market day when traders from all over gather and the place buzzes with chatter.

One morning, we set out early for Tengboche Monastery. The trail was quiet except for the distant clang of bells and the occasional yak train clomping past. When we reached the monastery, monks were chanting inside—low and steady—and prayer flags snapped in the wind. Ama Dablam loomed right behind, almost close enough to touch. Breakfast at Everest View Hotel was surreal; sipping coffee while watching clouds drift around Everest itself is something I’ll never forget.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Everest Base Camp Trek Highlights

• Flight to Lukla (Tenzing Hillary Airport)
• Visit Namche Bazaar, Sherpa Museum
• Explore Tengboche Monastery
• Enjoy panoramic views from Kala Patthar
• Observe Sherpa villages and culture
• Breakfast or lunch at Everest View Hotel

Top questions

How difficult is the Everest Base Camp trek?

The trek requires moderate fitness and some preparation for altitude. It’s challenging but manageable if you’re healthy and take your time.

What’s included in the trek package?

Your fee covers Sagarmatha National Park permits, airport taxes, and overnight stays along the route.

Is there Wi-Fi or phone signal on the trail?

You’ll find patchy Wi-Fi in some lodges (for a small fee), but don’t count on it everywhere—especially higher up.

What’s included

Your trip includes national park entry fees, airport taxes for flights to Lukla, and all overnight accommodations during your trek. Everything else—like meals or extra snacks—is easy to sort out along the way at local tea houses.