The Everest region has arguably the most dramatic scenery in the world and with flights making the area easily accessible, it is possible to reach the heart of the mountains within a few days. This introductory trek, staying in comfortable lodges, offers sensational mountain views and an insight into the lives of the local Sherpa people. We spend two days Kathmandu, relaxing and enjoying the mystical shrines and temples of this magical city before flying to Lukla, the starting point of our trek. For the first two days we trek slowly to aid acclimatization and head north up the Dudh Kosi Valley. Our route takes us through beautiful tracts of pine and rhododendron forest, with the peaks of Thamserku and Kusum Kanguru soaring above the trail. It is a steep ascent to Namche Bazaar (3446m), the capital of the famous Khumbu Sherpas, where we are again rewarded with spectacular mountain vistas. We allow a rest day here to acclimatize and there are options of taking short walks towards Thami Valley and the nearby national park museum. From Namche we follow the trail to the famous Thyangboche Monastery, located high on a ridge where we are greeted by a magnificent 360-degree panorama of the Himalayan giants. The views of Everest, the Lhotse-Nuptse Wall, Ama Dablam and Kantega dominate this peaceful and spiritual location - surely one of the most tranquil and inspiring places in the world. Our return journey from Thyangboche takes us through the picturesque villages of Khumjung and Kunde and back to the airstrip at Lukla where, after a final celebration, we say goodbye to our Sherpa crew. The following day we fly back to Kathmandu, where we have time to relax, shop or sample the delights of some of the many excellent local restaurants.

Itinerary:
Day 1 Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel.
Day 2 Morning sightseeing of Pashupatinath Temple and Bodhnath Stupa. Afternoon free.
Day 3 Fly to Lukla and commence trek, walking along the Dudh Kosi River Valley to Phakding.
Days 4 - 5 Follow the valley to Monjo. Ascend to the Sherpa capital, Namche Bazaar.
Day 6 Acclimatisation day. Optional walks towards Thami or Kunde-Khumjung. Views of Everest.
Day 7 Trek to Thyangboche Monastery. In fine weather, views of Ama Dablam, Kantega, Everest, Lhotse and Nupste.
Days 8 - 10 Return trek to Lukla, via Khumjung and Kunde. Possible visit to Hillary Hospital.
Days 11 - 12 Fly to Kathmandu. Free day to explore.
Day 13 Trip ends Kathmandu this morning.