Instant Everest

• Day 1:
• Arrive in Kathmandu. Transfer to hotel

We meet you at Kathmandu airport and transfer you from airport to hotel. Introduction to local area.

• Day 2:
• Kathmandu city tour

After a morning pre-tour briefing we head out into the centre of Kathmandu for a tour of the city. We visit Durbar Square, with its numerous temples and the old royal palace, we take a walk up to the top of Swayambunath Stupa for a great view over the city, and of course there is plenty of time to enjoy the numerous shops and stalls along the way. The evening is free for you to try out one of the many local restaurants.

• Day 3:
• Kathmandu to Lukla flight. Trek to Phakding

We catch a short flight this morning from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,800m) before starting our trekking to Phakding (2,652m). After descending out of Lukla the trail gently winds its way along the river and serves as an easy introduction to the slightly harder days ahead. We overnight at Phakding at one of the many comfortable trekking lodges.

• Day 4:
• Phakding to Namche Bazaar

Today starts gently as we make our way along the river to the entrance of Sagarmatha National Park, this is where we obtain our trekking permits and register with the park authorities. Soon the trail starts to rise for a long climb up to Namche Bazaar (3,446m), where we spend the night.

• Day 5:
• Namche Bazaar - acclimatisation day

We've given you a free day in Namche Bazaar for acclimatisation today. This traditional and colourful Sherpa town is a great place to spend time exploring. There are numerous shops and stalls selling everything form cut price trekking gear to Buddhist prayer flags. Its internet cafes, bakeries and cafes are also popular with the many visitors. Of course, if you’re not too tired, there are plenty of interesting and scenic day walks you can do if wish.

• Day 6:
• Namche Bazaar to Khumjung

After leaving Namche Bazaar behind we climb over a ridge to Khumjung, a traditional Sherpa village nestled in the next valley. On top of the ridge it is possible to get our first glimpse of Mount Everest, weather permitting. We overnight at a lodge in Khumjung.

• Day 7:
• Khumjung to Thengboche. Everest mountain views

The goal for today is to reach the village of Thengboche, which lies on top of the next ridge. This means we start the day with a long descent through beautiful Rhododendron forests down to the suspension bridge at Phunki Tenga (3,250m). Then we start the strenuous climb. Eventually we crest the ridge and arrive at Thengboche (3,870m), from where, on a clear day, the views of Everest and Lhotse are magnificent. Thengboche is also the site of a large Buddhist monastery, which is certainly worth a visit. We overnight at a lodge in Thengboche.

• Days 8-9:
• Thengboche to Monjo and on to Lukla

From Thengboche we head back down the trail via Monjo to Lukla. Having acclimatised well to the altitude the trekking becomes much easier as we make our way back down to Lukla, and there is plenty of time to take in the beauty of our surroundings. We overnight at a lodge in Monjo and Lukla.

• Day 10:
• Fly to Kathmandu. Bhaktapur ancient centre

We take a flight back to Kathmandu this morning, from where we make the short transfer to the ancient centre of Bhaktapur. Formerly the capital of one of the Kathmandu Valley's four kingdoms, Bhaktapur is a treasure trove of ancient wooden carved buildings and temples, and is a great place to spend some time exploring and getting a feel for life in Nepal centuries ago. Note. This day is built into the itinerary in case of delays to the flight back from Lukla to Kathmandu, which do occur fairly frequently when the weather is cloudy or there are high winds.

• Day 11:
• Free time in Bhaktapur and Kathmanudu

You have some free time in Bhaktapur this morning before transferring the short distance back to the centre of Kathmandu. You can relax and take it easy or do some more sightseeing or final shopping, the choice is yours. Options include adding an extension to the tour to Chitwan or Bardia National Parks, or to try some exciting white water rafting.

• Day 12:
• Kathmandu - Tour ends. Airport transfer

Your time is free today until we transfer you to the airport in time for your flight home.