Makalu Base Camp & Everest High Passes (Everest Three Passes) Lodge Trek (Helicopter Adventure)
Guided Nepal Himalaya Lodge (& Tent) Trek

Everest High Passes Guided Lodge Trek (Gokyo Lakes Trek, Everest Base Camp Trek & More!) – Nepal Himalayan Trekking
Day 1 – Arrive Kathmandu 1340m (4395′) | Transfer Kathmandu Guest House
Welcome to Nepal! You’ll be met at the Tribhuvan International Airport by a representative from the Kathmandu Guest House. Once you exit the airport, look for the Kathmandu Guest House sign and a sign with your name on it. Rajendra (+977 9841623270) and/or the KGH driver will transfer you to the Kathmandu Guest House, where your rooms have been booked. Relax in the beautiful, newly expanded garden, hydrate, enjoy a drink and snack, and recover from your jet lag.

Kim will meet you at the guest house and introduce you to Thamel, the bustling tourist area of Kathmandu. Thamel is a myriad of shops of all imaginable varieties, bakeries, cafes, restaurants, bars, hotels, spas, climbing walls, colorful banners and signs, and eccentrically clad backpackers. Over an optional dinner at Roadhouse Cafe, New Orleans, Denchenling, Yin & Yang, Third Eye, or one of Thamel’s other restaurants, we’ll get to know each other over a few drinks …
Kim’s Mobile & WhatsApp: +977 9803414745

Day 2 – Kathmandu | Optional World Heritage Sightseeing Tour
Morning meeting in the back garden of the Kathmandu Guest House to collect insurance information, staff tips, and go over some of our trek logistics. We’ll give you your Kamzang Journeys t-shirt, and you can purchase Kamzang Journeys baseball caps and buffs if you’d like. Ask Kim if you’d like to see Kamzang Design textile pillow covers or silver jewelry.

Enjoy a free day exploring Kathmandu’s many World Heritage sites or embark on a tour of the beautiful Kathmandu valley, surrounded by Himalayan snow peaks (see Kathmandu Valley Tours for optional tours with a Kathmandu city guide (possibly Nuru), car and driver. Or just relax at the hotel, have a massage, wander Kathmandu’s fascinating streets (Durbar Square is about half an hour of walking away, pop into neighborhood Hindu temples and Newari-styled courtyards, and join in on koras of the Buddhist temples and stupas.

We’ll have time for a bit of gear shopping in Thamel for anyone who needs to adjust their gear, and in the evening we have the option to get together for dinner in another of Thamel’s great restaurants. We also have the option to visit Boudhanath Stupa, Cafe Caravan and have dinner at Roadhouse Boudhanath overlooking the stupa. (B)

Cafe Caravan & Dolpo Gallery
Dolpo Artist Tenzin Norbu creates wonderful Dolpo paintings, the prints (and some originals) are available from our Cafe Caravan at Boudhanath Stupa, housed in one of Boudha’s original historic buildings, decorated in a bright, Tibetan style and overlooking the magnificent stupa!

Massage in Kathmandu (Ramji of Relieving Hands)
Ramji is a blind masseur trained by Seeing Hands in Kathmandu, who now offers wonderful at home (or hotel) massages, with his own massage table and oil. He is truly a master masseur, a real healer and VERY highly recommended. His prices are extremely reasonable. Let us know if you want help to arrange a massage.
Relieving Hands by Ramji

Sightseeing in Kathmandu
Nuru Wangdi Sherpa (Khumbu Adventures & Café Caravan) has his Kathmandu guide license and a large SUV vehicle, and can arrange any sightseeing you might want to do in Kathmandu and the Kathmandu valley. He is often available for guiding your excursions as well.
Mobile & WhatsApp: +977 9803633783

Kathmandu | World Heritage Sightseeing Tours – Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Durbar Square & Swayambunath
Kathmandu is filled with World Heritage sites and sacred destinations, crowded with traditional neighborhoods and colorful festivals. Spend a few days exploring Nepal’s exotic capital and the history-laden Kathmandu valley. We can arrange sightseeing guides and vehicles as required. See Kathmandu Heritage & Happenings for more details.

We recommend beginning with Pashupatinath in the early morning and moving on to Boudhanath mid-morning. Hindu Pashupatinath on the sacred Bagmati river and its sacred temple complex is one of Nepal’s most important sites, a powerful cremation site, and Nepal’s most important Hindu temple. Here, monkeys run up and down the steps of the burning ghats, and trident-bearing saddhus draped in burnt-orange and saffron sit serenely meditating when they’re not posing for photos-for-rupees. Local guides can explain the significance of the complicated ceremonies. Please be respectful when taking photos.

Boudhanath, in the midst of traditional monasteries (gonpas in Tibetan) and hung with long strings of multi-colored prayer flags, attracts Sherpas, Tibetans, and tourists alike for daily circumambulations (koras) of the iconic stupa. The striking Buddha eyes of Boudhanath Stupa watch over a lively and colorful Tibetan community and attract pilgrims from all over the Himalayan Buddhist realm. There are wonderful spots for lunch at Boudhanath (Roadhouse Cafe has wood-oven pizzas and a breathtaking view of the stupa and colorful Nepalis circling it), and it’s a good place to learn the technique of thanka painting and purchase a thanka (Buddhist mural). See also Bhaktapur for more options for shopping for thankas.

Wander through the many temples, pagodas, courtyards, and the museum at Kathmandu Durbar Square, a timeless gathering spot and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Kathmandu Durbar Square, including the old royal palace, is Kathmandu’s ‘Palace Square’, a showcase for the world-renowned artisans and craftsmen of Kathmandu and a synthesis of Hindu and Buddhist palaces, temples, stupas, and statues. The Malla and Shah kings ruled over the Kathmandu Valley during the centuries of the building of the layers of this Durbar Square. Along with their opulent palaces, the square surrounds numerous courtyards and temples, all works of art with intricate and often erotic carvings. Kathmandu Durbar Square is known as Hanuman Dhoka Durbar Square, a name derived from a statue of Hanuman, the monkey devotee of Lord Ram, at the entrance of the palace. The social, religious and urban focal point of the city, Durbar Square is often the site of festivals, marriages, and other ceremonies such as Teej. Some important structures are Hanuman Dhoka Palace, Kumari Ghar (Abode of the Living Goddess), Taleju Temple, built between the 12th and 18th centuries, the 17th century stone inscription set into the wall of the palace with writings in 15 languages.

In the evening (take the interesting back streets from Durbar Square) climb the many steps to the gilded Swayambhunath stupa (known as the monkey temple) which rises from the Kathmandu valley floor at 1420 meters and is one of the holiest Buddhist sites in Nepal. Swayambunath, the ‘self-created’  stupa, was founded over 2000 years ago at a time when the Kathmandu valley was filled by a large lake, with a single lotus in the center. Mythology says that Manjusri, a bodhisattva, drained the lake with one cut of his sword and the lotus flower was transformed into the stupa. From its commanding views of Kathmandu, circumambulate Swayambunath’s white-washed stupa, painted with distinctive Buddha eyes, the complex a unique synthesis of Buddhism and Hinduism. Another interesting time to visit Swayambunath is in the mornings when Nepalis visit the temple dedicated to the God of Smallpox with colorful offerings for the goddess.

Stop to photograph reflections in Kathmandu’s many pokharis or ponds, including the beautiful Rani Pokhari (queen’s bath) near New Road, and the Naga Pokhari (pond of the snake gods of the underworld) just beyond the palace gates. The many bathing ghats, square enclosures with steps leading down to water spouts and often decorated with naga heads, are also interesting and colorful gathering spots.

Day 3 – Fly Tumlingtar 395m. Drive Num 1505m (Pramila Guest House)
After breakfast in Kathmandu, we will transfer to the domestic airport for a spectacular mountain flight over the Kathmandu valley, heading easy over a vast panorama of Himalayan peaks as we fly to Tumlingtar Airport. Our Makalu Base Camp trip begins in the rustic, semi-tropical east of Nepal, homeland of Rais and other middle hills Nepalis, where we board our private vehicles and enjoy the scenic drive to Num. We’ll drive through villages with flooded, muddy rice paddies plowed by water buffaloes, the turquoise Arun River, through the green, terraced hillsides, soon passing through the large, colorful village of of Khandbari (1050m), large enough to have a hospital, school and government buildings. We continue the drive through Nepal’s scenic middle hills, past flooded rice paddies plowed by water buffaloes, and textured fields of corn, wheat, rice and other crops, interspersed with sal and bamboo forests. past reflective ponds and drying stacks of hay, through Hindu and Rai villages. We descend steeply down to the Arun River, and pass through a dusty bazaar before ascending again to Num.

We’ll spend our first night in Num, in a small hotel or lodge (perhaps Pramila Guest House, where we’ve had lunch), enjoying some local cuisine for dinner. Sunsets and sunrises are fabulous from this altitude, and we’ll enjoy the balmy temperatures before trekking up higher into the Makalu Barun National Park. (4 hrs drive) (B, L, D)
Driving Distance: 72 km

Tumlingtar, Khandbari & Num Regions (Cultural Diversity)
Kumal: An indigenous group with traditional pot-making skills.
Bahun & Chhetri: Part of the broader Khas-Parbatiya group, which includes hill Brahmins.
Magar, Rai, & Tamang: Tibeto-Burman ethnic groups.
Newar: A significant ethnic group in Nepal, with distinct cultures and traditions.
Sherpa: Tibeto-Burman ethnic group that settled in the Khumbu region over 600 years ago.
Lohorung & Limbu: The belong to the Kiranti ethnic group, and speak a dialect of Kiranti, a Sino-Tibetan language.

Day 4 – Trek Seduwa 1560m | Cross Arun River (Seduwa Bauddha Lodge)
Trekking into Makalu Barun National Park, our route ascends gradually through subtropical landscapes connected by long suspension bridges over the Arun River, passing through terraced farmlands and open forests, home to Rai, Gurung and Makalu Sherpas. We’ll be trekking along a scenic route as we head towards Seduwa, heading further north towards the border of Tibet. This is a region that sees few trekkers and the Makalu Base Camp trek will be a real adventure, a glimpse into the timeless mountain villages and cultures of Nepal. Slightly higher in the trek, we will be traversing the many high ridges of rhododendron and bamboo that characterize Nepal’s lush middle hills.

Leaving Num, we descend on stone steps, a long, hot switchback passing through sprawling, vibrantly green cardamom crops, watered by sprinklers, and once harvested, transported in gunnysacks by ponies to Tumlingar to be sold to Kathmandu and elsewhere in Nepal. We’ll trek by fields of corn, on trails bordered by ferns, through bamboo groves as well as denser, old growth forests. The stone steps continue until we reach the the opaque and turquoise Arun River (740m), about a 2 hours hike. Once over the suspension bridge, the trail is brightened by yellow marigolds, a welcome site as we ascend once again to a church with a tap (925m), perfect for cooling down on a hot morning. Ascending another 75m or so, we reach the cute, small campsite with a pomelo tree at Bhet Ghaddi (990m), where Lucky and Chongba produce incredible dal baht which includes pumpkin greens and fiddlehead ferns, and have a small shop which has cold drinks.

Continuing to ascent on more stone steps, we finally reach Seduwa, a village full of traditional village life and local architecture. At Seduwa, our guide will check us into the Makalu Barun National Park, and we will head for the Seduwa Bauddha Lodge for the evening. (5-6 hrs drive) (B, L, D)
Distance:

Day 5 – Tashigaon 2190m (Tsering’s Lodge)
We truly begin our Makalu Barun Base Camp Lodge trek today, with a beautiful hike to the traditional village of Tashigaon. Beginning with yet another steep climb on stone steps, we’ll pass ancient mani stones and lung-ta (prayer-flags), marking old Buddhist trade routes between Nepal and Tibet. We’ve reached Makalu Sherpa territory, apparent by the traditional Sherpa houses, Buddhist monasteries and mani stones. We’ll continue to ascend on stone steps, and on trails through green cardamom plantations, as well as lovely fern, bamboo and rhododendron forests, and even strawberry plants. It will take us about two hours to reach Sedum (1560m), the National Park headquarters, and after a break, we’ll continue to ascend, hiking through the many small terraced subsistence farms dotting the hillside, a varied and scenic hiking day, often through dense forests, sometimes crossing streams on small log bridges. After about two hours of undulating hiking, with a plethora of birdlife such as barbets, cuckoos, drongos, and laughing thrushes to keep us company, we’ll reach the small ridgetop settlement of Chyaksa Danda (1945m), with several small lodges, teahouses, a school and local homes. We’ll stop for lunch at a scenic teahouse at the top of the village. From Chyakse Danda, the region starts to become more obviously Tibetan, with Buddhist mani stones and lung-ta (prayer flags) peppering the landscape.

We continue to hike, flatter finally, along an ancient, open trail lined with ferns, with vast views out over the beautiful valley below. Soon we can see our destination of Tashigaon on the hillside ahead, although it takes quite a while to reach the village as we contour around many forested hillsides. Finally, we’ll descend to a wooden log bridge and ascend on stone steps to reach our wonderful lodge at lovely Tashigaon, run by a local guide Tsering. His wife owns the lodge at Danda Kharka, his mother owns the lodge at Kongma, and his brothers are all Makalu climbers!

Take advantage of trekking through this traditional Himalayan region to sample some of the delicious local fare for dinner, or a sabji (vegetable)-filled dal baht including local greens that look like mint, and stinging nettles. You can also sample millet pancakes, and perhaps try a cup of local chang (barley, rice or other brewed beer), raksi (distilled grain) or tongma (hot millet beer served in a bamboo container). (3 hrs) (B, L, D)
Distance:

Day 6 – Trek Danda Kharka 2935m (Danda Kharka Lodge)
A short day to acclimatize before trekking higher into the Makalu region, fortified by strawberries growing along the trail. We cross the river on a small wooden bridge, and continue to climb steeply through verdant, green forest of colorful, blooming rhododendron, full of birds (and birdsongs), with Himalayan snow peaks to the eastern side of the trail. We’ll reach Danda Karka in time for lunch at the wonderful ridge top Danda Karkha Lodge, owned by Tsering’s Phura Lhamu. Enjoy the sunrise and sunset, and again the delicious, local Sherpa fare! (3 hrs) (B, L, D)
Distance:

Day 7 – Trek Kongma 3620m (Shiva View Hotel)
We begin the day with another steep climb on ancient trails, including more some stone steps, through more mossy, rhododendron-choked forests, to reach Unshisa (3200m). Unshisa is a small pass with fluttering Buddhist prayer flags and a lone teahouse. From here, we have more relentless climbing on stone steps through a green, rhododendron forest, blooming with multicolored flowers in the springtime, and Indian Cuckoo singing around us. A few hours and 300 meters later, we reach a beautiful, open stone chautara (rest stop), marked with prayer flags, called Utisee Kharka (2480m), followed by another kharka teahouse (2595m) where dzobkios (dzos) graze in the pastures. We have a section of flatter hiking through more open landscapes, followed by more steep stone steps. FInally, a small descent, but then more stone steps ascending again, this time with cement railings, to reach a big overhanging rock, with lots of sheep droppings and dzobkio dung. Another hour of steep uphill trekking, at Ongshiaha Deurali (3200m), there is a teahouse which serves delicious millet and rice. Continuing, more very steep stone steps where locals had to cut rhododendrons (with yellow flowers) to make the trail; the forests are alive with bird songs! At 3550m, we reach a new Buddha, and another half an hour later we’ll arrive at Khongma Danda, where we will check into Shiva View Hotel for the night. The owner is Pasang Bhuti, called Kongma Saili, and her daughter who we met in 2025 is Pasang Doma. (4 hrs) (B, L, D)
Distance: 3.8 km (?)

Day 8 – Trek Dobato (Mumbuk) 3860m | Cross Kungma La 3890m, Shipton La 4200m & Keke La 4170m 
A big Himalayan trekking day today, with three passes (the Kungma La, Shipton La and Keke La) and a high ridge (Sano Pokhari Danda) to cross before reaching your lodge at Dhobate (or Mumbuk). The route and scenery are spectacular throughout the day as you trek along undulating high ridgetops, through more beautiful rhododendron and bamboo forests, looking out over snowy Himalayan peaks – including Kanchenjunga, the third highest peak on the planet.

You’ll start up the same route to the Kungma La as yesterday, continuing to ascend up a steep trail to the top of the Shipton La, where you can hang some five-colored Tibetan Buddhist prayer flags (lung-ta) sending prayers out into the universe. The Shipton La Pass was named after the famed explorer Eric Shipton, a spectacular panorama of Himalayan peaks and the Barun Valley far below. Hopefully the teahouse is open for a cup of reviving chai, as it’s the only place to pick up water, snacks, drinks or anything else on the trail until you reach Dhobate. 

Continue to ascend on steep stone steps to Sano Pokhara Danda (4105m), where you’ll be rewarded with views of the scenic Sano Pokhari (lake) far in the valley below. Descend to Kalo Pokhari, in the valley at 4080m, a popular and colorful pilgrimage stop for Hindus during the Janai Purnima festival. Keep an eye out for Himalayan danphe, Nepal’s national bird, the male a resplendent blue and green pheasant while the female is colored with more subdued hues of browns. Finally, a last ascent to the Keke La pass, followed by a well-earned descent to Dobato and your lodge for the evening. (5-6 hrs) (B, L, D)

Day 9 – Trek Yangle Kharka 3630m 
A beautiful descent through rhododendron and pine forests this morning, with lots of birdlife in the woods en route. You have a steep descent towards the Barun River through dense forest, which is often challenging as the moist woods retain snow and ice. Eventually you reach the river, continuing carefully under a slide area, with brief spottings of Chanlang and Tutse en route.

After a brief ascent, passing a spectacular waterfall, you’ve reached the teashop at Themathang Kharka (3500m) about 4 hours after leaving Dobate. After a cup of tea, continue on the same trail, crossing the Baron Khola on a small, wooden bridge and hiking on the left of the river. Following the rocky trail, which ascends and descends as you near the grassy seasonal settlement of Yangle Kharka, you finally reach tonight’s lodge. Nearby is a Buddhist monastery without a resident monk, so generally closed. Backed by snow-peaks, Yangla Kharka is a lovely setting for the evening, with choughs circling overhead catching the evening thermals. (B, L, D) (5-6 hrs) (B, L, D)

Day 10 – Trek Langmale Kharka 4420m
Descending from the lodge and hiking along the right banks of the river, you’ll hike through open forests of juniper and evergreens, passing mani walls, sacred caves and prayer flags along the trail as you hike surrounded by impressive cliffs. The vista ahead of you is dominated by Peaks 4, 6 + 7 along with Yaupa, the snow-covered peaks making for great photos. This is rugged and fantastic landscape, with craggy peaks, soaring cliffs, circling Himalayan griffins and lammergeiers, and dramatic waterfalls adding to the beauty of the valley.

Soon you reach the grazing settlements of Jhak Kharka and Yak Kharka followed by the teashop at Merek, where you’ll be ready for a cup of hot tea. A few hours of hiking ahead you finally reach Langmale Kharka, your destination and lodge for the evening. With an ancient mani wall next to the lodge, and spectacular Himalayan panoramas – including Peak 7 – in front, it’s a great spot for some evening peak gazing. (5 hrs) (B, L, D)

Day 11 – Trek Makalu Base Camp 4800m
An epic Himalayan trekking day, with Peak 7 accompanying you throughout most of the day, and Peak 6 towering in front. You’ll hike along the right side of the river on a contouring trail as you ascend up the valley, with almost constant views. The trail is boulder strewn at times, but generally a relatively good trail as you hike, ascending gradually, towards Makalu Base Camp. Soon you’ll get views of Peak 4, and the valley opens up as you near the stone hut at Shershong (4625m). And finally, the dramatic peak of Makalu opens up in front!

Soon you cross the river on a wooden bridge and reach the tents and colorful campsite of Makalu Base Camp, with the awesome sight of Makalu dominating the valley. You’ll share the campsite with Tibetan snowcocks looking for leftovers. Enjoy the sunset in this sublime setting! (5-6 hrs) (B, L, D)

Makalu Climbing History
“Makalu has two notable subsidiary peaks. Kangchungtse, or Makalu II (7678m), lies about 3 km north-northwest of the main summit. Rising about 5 km north-northeast of the main summit across a broad plateau, and connected to Kangchungtse by a narrow, 7200 m saddle, is Chomo Lonzo.

The first climb on Makalu was made by an American team led by Riley Keegan in the spring of 1954. The expedition was composed of Sierra Club members including Bill Long and Allen Steck, and was called the California Himalayan Expedition to Makalu. They attempted the southeast ridge but were forced to turn back at 7100m by a constant barrage of storms. A New Zealand team including Sir Edmund Hillary was also active in the spring, but did not get very high due to injury and illness.

1955 French Makalu Expedition: Makalu was first summited on May 15, 1955, by Lionel Terray and Jean Couzy of a French expedition led by Jean Franco. Franco, Guido Magnone and Gyalzen Norbu Sherpa summitted the next day, followed by Jean Bouvier, Serge Coupé, Pierre Leroux and André Vialatte. The French team climbed Makalu by the north face and northeast ridge, via the saddle between Makalu and Kangchungtse (the Makalu-La), establishing the standard route.” – Wikipedia

Day 12 – Makalu Base Camp | Optional Ridge Climb & Himalayan Viewpoint 5300m (Everest, Lhotse & Nuptse)
Now that we’ve reached Makalu Base Camp, take advantage of this incredible setting to take a hike to a viewpoint far above 5000 meters, a hike of about 3 hours and approximately 500 meters above Makalu Base Camp.

Crossing the stream on a small log bridge, you’ll begin ascending right out of camp on a trail which is sometimes difficult to follow. Once at the viewpoint about 3 hours later, you’re rewarded with a feast of Himalayan peaks, the vista dominated by Makalu, Peak 7, Peak 6 and Peak 4 and including Everest, Lhotse and Nuptse. Worth every challenging step to get to this viewpoint!

For an easier day hike, you might opt to visit the opaque mountain lakes beyond Makalu Base Camp, a shorter ridge climb just a bit higher than the camp. Or visit the Tibetan lung-ta covered hill half an hour’s hike from camp. (4-5 hours r/t viewpoint) (B, L, D)

Day 13 – Helicopter over Amphu Labtsa Pass to Chhukhung 4750m/15,580′ (Chhukung Resort)
A spectacular helicopter shuttle high above the Amphu Labtsa pass (5780m), a high, technical glaciated pass linking the remote Hongu (Honku) valley and the Mera Peak region with the Imja Khola, and Khumbu region. It will just take us a few minutes to touch down in Chhukhung, nestled under Ama Dablam, Lhotse, the Nuptse wall, Peak 38, Kang Lemu and Island peak, to name just a few of the peaks that make this such a superb setting. We spend two idyllic days at the large Chhukhung Resort, owned by Chindi and Mingma Sherpa, a lovely lodge with new, sunny rooms, a sunroom, a great dining room, and a heat-generating slate deck, perfect for peak-gazing in the afternoon. Sunsets are sublime, enjoy them from the small ridge just outside the lodge. And it’s a good day to do and dry some washing, as we have a rest day here tomorrow!

After lunch at the lodge, we’ll have a casual wander up the glacial valley along the undulating glacial moraines, heading in the direction of Island Peak Base Camp (which is a 3½ hour journey up, 2 hours back); the views up and down the valley are great, and the short hike makes for a perfect Himalayan afternoon. (B, L, D)

NOTE | Helicopter price depends on number of trekkers (+$)

Day 14 – Chhukhung | Climb Chhukhung Ri 5565m/18,253′
The Chhukung valley is one of the most spectacular valleys in the Khumbu region. We’ll take advantage of our free day to climb Chhukhung Ri, a climbing peak with two peaks on either side of the saddle, the higher at 5565m and the lower at 5415m, a climb of 2 – 2½ hours to the saddle.

Leaving the lodge at Chhukung, we hike above the hamlet and cross the icy stream on stones and then a small bridge, and then have about 250 meters of undulating ascent on a good trail to the plateau, our first rest stop. From here, you can hike up the small hill just beside us to approximately 5000 meters, and have a great Himalayan panorama, which includes Makalu, without having to climb the entire peak. The rocks in this idyllic valley are mostly leucogranites, gneiss, and a bit of shist (which the warm, reflective lodge decks are constructed of).

The climb up Chhukung Ri becomes even steeper from this plateau, quite unrelenting but incredibly beautiful all the way until reaching the saddle. From the saddle (5390m), the views of Makalu in front and Nuptse to the back are awesome, and we peer down the backside of the saddle to Cho Oyu and the peaks bordering the Gokyo Lakes. The north summit is another 45 minutes on loose scree, slightly exposed, while the south summit is an easy 10 minutes from the saddle, fluttering with Himalayan prayer flags and cairns. (4 – 5½ hrs r/t) (B, L, D)
Distance: 5.5km

Day 15 – Trek Lobuche 4935m/16,186m | Cross Kongma La Pass 5540m/18171m & Khumbu Glacier (Optional) (Eco Lodge)
The group has two options for today’s trek; descending to Dingboche, traversing to Thugla and then climbing to Lobuche, or crossing the Kongma La and the Khumbu Glacier to reach Lobuche. Both options are described below, and generally, we split the group as most people won’t be acclimatized for the high, challenging pass route to Lobuche just yet.

KONGMA LA OPTION | The Kongma La (Tibetan Snowcock) pass takes only an hour or so more than the route via Thugla (including stopping for lunch), and is very do-able if we’re strong and have slept two nights at Chhukhung. Leaving the lodge at Chhukung out the back door, we immediately cross the icy stream on a small bridge and head west on a small, rocky trail, contouring around glacial slides and grassy hillsides as we gain altitude. The hiking isn’t very steep until we reach Pokalden Base Camp, from where we begin to climb more steeply, passing another Base Camp. We’ll stop for a long rest and refueling before our first steep climb up to the first group of mountain lakes, from where we climb a small hill to reach the larger, clear Kongma Tso (lake). The Himalayan views behind are truly breathtaking. A short respite before the last steep but short climb to the prayer-flag festooned pass, where we’ll enjoy epic Himalayan views in both directions. Reaching the pass generally takes 4 – 4½ hours from Chhukung.

Descending from the pass, we begin with a steep descent on loose scree and rocks, hard on the knees and sometimes icy, finally reaching the green valley bottom only to climb back up the eastern lateral moraine of the Khumbu glacier. Crossing the glacier is an otherworldly experience as we trek past groaning glacial ponds and sliding rocks and scree, again a tough series of climbs and descents on the uneven glacier, the first two-thirds of the glacier always on a new trail. The new trail (as of 2023) goes below the new glacial lake, and takes about 30-45 minutes longer than the old trail). Finally, we crest the top of the western lateral moraine, with an easy descent to Lobuche. We stay at Eco Lodge (if it’s not too full) at the top end of Lobuche, run by the lovely Lhakpa Kanchi Sherpa, where the delicious pizzas and chicken curry make a nice change from dal baht! (8-9 hrs) 

MEMORIAL VIEWPOINT OPTION | After returning back down the Chhukung Valley to Dingboche, we crest the chorten-topped ridge and continue another three hours further, looking down on the trail to the Cho La Pass and Dzongla. Walking along the flat, grassy plateau, we pass the summer ‘doksa’, or yak-herding settlement, of Dusa before heading down to the stony river coming from the Khumbu Valley, and crossing it on a small bridge. A quick five minutes up the hill and we arrive at Thugla and Tsering Lhakpa’s Yak Lodge, once one of the most genuine alpine lodges in the Khumbu. It used to be worth a trek up to Thugla just to meet Tsering, who often took out his Tibetan ‘damnye’ to play some traditional Tibetan songs. We’ll have lunch at Thugla with his son Kunga, who now runs the lodge, before continuing up the hill.

From Thugla, hike straight up the steep, yak-trodden trail for about 250 meters to the memorials to the many climbers who have died attempting one of the many peaks in the area (including Babu Chiri and Scott Fischer’s). The Sherpas call this place Chukpi Lhare, meaning ‘wealthy persons’ kharka’. Check the Himalayan views behind you when you reach the memorial crest, they’re spectacular, with Ama Dablam at the forefront. Next, we head up-valley towards Lobuche, where we stay the night at the Eco Lodge. The views from the edge of the glacier down-valley are superb, almost more so as the clouds move up the valley, so don’t miss an afternoon walk up to the ridge with your camera – and note that we’ll have a night back in Lobuche after visiting Gorak Shep for a sunset wander. At Lobuche, almost 5000 meters, it is especially important to take it easy, stay hydrated and get plenty of rest. (7½ – 8½ hrs)
Distance (Memorial Viewpoint Route): 9.4km
Distance (Kongma La Route): 11 km

TREK NOTE | Kim and Lhakpa will decide if we will attempt the Kongma La, and who is acclimatized and strong enough to cross the pass. We will generally trek in two groups, all meeting at the Eco Lodge in Lobuche. Great routes either way …

Day 16 – Trek Gorak Shep 5180m/16,990′ | Climb Kala Pattar Peak 5645m/18,516′ (Himalayan Lodge)
We leave Lobuche early-ish, trekking up a rocky yak trail on the left side of the Khumbu Glacier heading towards Gorak Shep, a walk of 2½ – 3 hours. The hike isn’t difficult, but there are a few hills to crest, more memorials along the way, and you should feel the altitude. The last stretch of the trail snakes up and down glacial scree, and just before Gorak Shep we get a view of Everest, the Khumbu Icefall and Everest Base Camp. Gorak Shep, with Kala Pattar just to the left, is a welcome sight; the Himalayan Lodge, owned by Ang Tsering, and now run by his son Pasang and his wife Kalzang, has expanded; the rooms are fine, the toilets are inside and the dining room is lively, often very busy. The food is even good, quite a feat at 5180 meters, many days walk from the markets. Ok, so it’s not my favorite of lodges (the others at Gorak Shep are the same), but we make due for a night to have the chance to hike to Everest Base Camp and climb Kala Pattar.

To the east of Gorak Shep, Nuptse looms magnificently above us, now a triangular rock face that turns pink with the evening light. We suggest trying the climb of Kala Pattar peak after a quick (early) lunch, but if your priority is to visit Everest Base Camp, discuss with Kim, Lhakpa or your guide and perhaps do this today, saving Kala Pattar for tomorrow morning. (3 hrs + 3-4 hrs (Kala Pattar) r/t) (B, L, D)

KALA PATTAR | Leaving the lodge, cross the sandy once-lake bottom and begin on the first section of the steep, 2-hour climb. About half way up, there is a good resting point, from where you can see almost all of what you can see from the top of the peak. The steep switchbacks continue, and after about 1½ – 2 hours you reach the saddle, from where you can look down on the majestic mess of glaciers below. One more small climb to the rocky, prayer-flag strewn summit, actually a spur from Pumori, and you are rewarded with epic Himalayan views including Everest, Lhotse (the tip), Nuptse, Amadablam, and Kangtega to the south and Lhola Peak, Changtse, Khumbutse, Lingtren, Pumori and Chumbu. Changtse is fully in Tibet, and the others for the most part form the border of Nepal and Tibet. Descending is much faster than the ascent of Kala Pattar, and hot drinks are waiting back at the lodge.
Distance: 8km

Day 17 – Trek Lobuche 4935m/16,186′ | Day Hike Everest Base Camp 5365m/17,597m (Eco Lodge)
The morning is set aside for our hike to Everest Base Camp, though if you didn’t climb yesterday, you can climb the 5645m Kala Pattar in the morning. Rob Hall’s memorial makes a nice side-trip up the valley if you’re short on energy. Or you can opt to head back to Lobuche early, and skip the morning’s excursion. After EBC or Kala Pattar, back at the Himalayan Lodge, lunch awaits before heading back down the glacial valley to Eco Lodge. There’s a beautiful (optional) high route leading to the Pyramid Research Center and lodge which doesn’t take much extra time. Private groups might opt to stay at The Pyramid instead of Eco Lodge. (3½ – 4 hrs r/t + 2 hrs Lobuche) (B, L, D)

EVEREST BASE CAMP HIKE | You have the morning hike to Everest Base Camp, a 3½ – 4 hour round-trip hike along the glacial ridge leading to the Khumbu icefall, descending right onto the glacier. At Base Camp, a short walk through the glacier, there is a large rock strung with 5-colored prayer flags and an Everest Base Camp sign which looks out at the Khumbu Ice Fall, a perfect spot for photos. Be careful of small rockfalls on the stretch descending to the glacier or ascending back to the trail. The glacier is rapidly thinning and destabilizing due to climate change; we used to explore the ice pillars to the right of the glacier, but they’ve melted away …

During the April 25, 2025 7.8 Nepal Earthquake, the Nepal Everest Base Camp (there is also one in Tibet, a bit higher) was hit by an avalanche from Pumori that descended on the base camp, killing about 20 people. In 1953, when Hillary and Tenzin Norgay, part of the British team, become the first climbers to summit Everest, the base camp was on a moraine perched on solid ice, and the trek up to EBC took over 2 months. The team trekked with hundreds of heavily laden porters, covering 300+ km to reach Everest Base Camp, starting in the steamy forests bordering Kathmandu, and heading up into the Khumbu via Jiri and Phaplu.
Distance: 13.3km

Day 18 – Trek Dzongla 4830m/15,842′ (Dzongla Inn)
We can sleep in a bit this morning as the sun hits the lodge at 7:45 am, and we have a short day to Dzongla, a small ‘kharka’ of 4 or 5 lodges a few hours below the Cho La pass. Once past Lobuche, we trek south on the main trail and after about 20 minutes, fork off to the right (east). We cross the floodplain river on small river rocks and climb gradually, contouringd to the right as we head south. At the confluence of the Chola and Khumbu glacier streams, we are treated to magnificent views in all directions, the featured peaks being Ama Dablam, Nuptse and Pumori. We turn to the right and head up the Dzongla valley, past the opaque, turquoise Cho La Lake on our left, followed by Lobuche East Base Camp in the green valley to our right. Another steep switchbacking climb and we reach a trail in the middle (or up higher) on the hillside, from where we can see the small lodges of Dzongla. A small descent brings us to an open area with large glacial rocks, and just afterwards we cross the stream coming from the Khumbu glacier on a small bridge, and climb steeply for 15 minutes to Dzongla.

We stay at Doma’s brother Ang Nuru and wife Maya’s Dzongla Inn, which has a warm, sunny dining room and rooms. From Dzongla, we’ll have a scenic lunch as we gaze up at the sheer wall of Cholatse and get ready for the morning crossing of Cho La pass tomorrow (micro spikes). Don’t miss the pink and burnt orange sunset over Ama Dablam from just outside the lodge, it’s sublime. (3 – 3½ hrs) (B, L, D)
Distance: 6.3km

Day 19 – Trek Tangnak 4690m/15,383′ | Cross Cho La Pass 5370m/17,613′ (Cho La Resort)
A slightly early start (but with the sun) for our crossing of the Cho La pass, a rocky climb followed by a glacier crossing. Leaving Dzongla, we take the lower trail below the prayer flags to reach a glacial stream, which we cross a few times on rocks protruding from the ice. We continue through this glacial valley, stopping at some large rocks to adjust clothes as the sun warms the valley, and soon afterwards turn right and climb on a new trail, constructed just after 2020. Lobuche West rises above us as we ascend the right side of the stream coming from the glaciers above, running down through iron-stained rocks. We continue to ascend until we reach the bottom right of the glacier, which is a much easier crossing than the old one, and requires microspikes. The ascent of the Chola glacier is exciting and stunningly beautiful as we trek across the ice (and a bit of snow), and we soon reach the gaping and usually frozen crevasse (lake) just below the pass, these days barely visible. Taking off our microspikes, we have a short section of rock to maneuver, made easier by wire cable bolted into the rock. At the Cho La pass, after a 3-hour climb, we’ll hang our Buddhist prayer flags and send prayers out across the Himalaya.

From the top of Cho La pass, we’re treated to views of Ama Dablam, Kangtega, Thamserku, Tarboche, Cholatse and Baruntse on the Khumbu side, and of Nangpai Gosain, Pasang Lhamo, Numbur and on the Gokyo side. After a snack on the pass, we follow the wire cable back down the other side of the pass, a jumble of large rocks, often a scramble on stone steps and sandy trail, steep for the first half hour of the descent. There is a small flatish section which passes under another large scree slope, and once we’re clear of this we’ll stop for a break. At the bottom of this stretch, we still have to negotiate a rocky, undulating trail, rock hopping, and then descending steeply to the first valley which leads to the settlement of Nga heading south (not our route).

Continuing on, we pass a spring and ascend another grassy ridge, descend into a second valley, climb to the last ridge and begin the long, rocky descent to the kharka of Tangnak, where Lhakpa Nuru and his wife Nawang Doma runs their wonderful lodge, the Cho La Resort. Chilled beers are available to celebrate the Cho La pass crossing, there is a warm shower room, and the dining room (with wifi) is one of the nicest in the Khumbu. Relax, sit by the fire and enjoy this luxurious mountain experience! (6½ – 7 hrs) (B, L, D)
Distance: 8km

Day 20 – Trek Gokyo 4790m/15,711′ (Cho Oyu View Lodge) | Cross Ngozumpa Glacier
Leaving our warm lodge, we start the morning by hiking gently on a beautiful, green trail on the east side of the Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in Nepal. After about half an hour of hiking we turn up the lateral moraine to our left, and descend steeply into the glacier. We trek northwest on a circuitous trail through the ever-receding glacier, with Cho Oyu rising magnificently to the north, hiking past small glacial lakes, fallen rocks and debris, exposing the magificent blue ice of the glacier. We continue to cross the glacier on a sandy, boulder-strewn trail, the frozen lakes creaking as we snake our way to the other side.

Climbing up the opposite lateral moraine, we crest a small hill before looking down to the expanding seasonal ‘trekking village’ (once just a kharka) of Gokyo, built beside the third, and biggest lake, in a grassy ablation valley running beside the Ngozumpa Glacier. The opaque powder-blue lakes are often on the verge of freezing over, and sometimes perform a Himalayan symphony of expanding and retracting ice. Gokyo has become something of a Himalayan resort without the crowd – at least in terms of the comfortable lodges with sunrooms, unbeatable views, excellent food and warm stoves. A more spectacular setting is difficult to imagine, and our guesthouse, the Cho Oyu View Lodge, perfectly situated on the lakeside, is a little piece of heaven. Dali Sherpa, our host, is a good friend, and with her two grown children, Tenzin (who manages the lodge) and Ang Tashi, has expanded and improved their welcoming, sunny lakeside lodge. (2½ hrs) (B, L, D)
Distance: 3.7km, Elevation Gain: 171m, Elevation Loss: 101m

GOKYO LAKE KORA | An hour+ Buddhist ‘kora’ hike around Gokyo Lake, passing the beach and Buddhist and Hindu ‘temples’ on the opposite side, stopping at the sandy beach across from the lodges, watching the Ruddy Shelducks and other birdlife. (1½ hrs)
Distance Gokyo Ri Climb: 3.8km

SUNSET MORAINE VIEWS | Don’t miss a quick hike up the moraine ridge in the back of the village for glorious sunset colors on Cho Oyu, the skies turning golden and pink down the valley towards Cholatse, Tarboche and Thamserku. (½ hr)

Day 21 – Gokyo | Climb Gokyo Ri 5360m/17,580′ (Cho Oyu View Lodge)
A free day in Gokyo, with lots to do in this incredibly scenic valley. If you didn’t get up Gokyo Ri yesterday, you have another chance today to climb to the colorful top of the peak and enjoy the Himalayan views. Or opt to grab a chair and just sit by the rocky lakeside and relax. You ARE on vacation, and it’s an amazing location on the shores of the Himalayan Gokyo Lake! (B, L, D) 

GOKYO RI CLIMB | One of our favorite views of the trek is from Gokyo Ri, where we are treated to Everest and Himalayan panoramas, and spectacular views of the Gokyo Lakes, Ngozumba Glacier, the glacial valley. Leaving the lodge, we cross the stream coming from Cho Oyo on a series of rock bridges, and begin the steep climb up Gokyo Ri. The switchbacks are continuous, as are the views along the climb. From about half way up the peak, Everest comes into view, followed by Makalu; so rest stops are always inspiring. It generally takes about 2 hours to reach the top, where he Himalayan panorama includes Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Pumori, Cholatse, Tarboche, Thamserku, Gyachen Kang + more. The views are fantastic in the morning, the middle of the day, or for sunset, but don’t forget to bring a torch if you opt for ‘sunset on Everest’ views, which in our opinion is better than the sunrise view when the sun rises behind the Himalayan peaks. To the west is the Renjo La (4515m) pass, tomorrow’s goal, and the gateway to the Thame Valley and the Nangpa La, which the Tibetans cross with their yaks en route to Namche. (3-4 hrs r/t)

FIFTH LAKE & SCOUNDREL’S VIEW HIKE | A beautiful day hike heading north up the Gokyo valley, past the glacial Fourth Lake (Thanak Tsho), heading towards the Fifth Lake (Ngozumba Tsho) and the snowy massif of Cho Oyu on the border of Tibet. There are several trails that snake up this valley, one emerging on the ridge overlooking the Ngozumpa Glacier, another passing right next to the eerily deserted fourth lake with its white, stony beach. All trails have views of Everest and the Himalayan range, so the hike is never dull! The unobstructed view of Everest from Scoundrel’s Point (4995m) is a great reward for the walk, about a 13 km round trip journey from Gokyo and about 2½ hours from Gokyo. (5-6 hrs r/t)

Day 22 – Trek Lungden 4375m | Cross Renjo La Pass 5415m/17,760′ (Renjo Support Lodge)
Another early Himalayan start as we head west of Gokyo lake (taking the upper trail) towards the Renjo La pass. Once at the end of the lake, we cross a small stream, from where the trail switchbacks up the sandy ridge very steeply to our first resting plateau. After a snack, we cross some icy sections of trail which we negotiate with care, and continue along a sandy, old lake, up a short section of rock wall to a rock outcropping, a perfect stopping point. Continuing to climb gradually, we skirt the bottom of the dramatic rock face below the pass to the top of the Renjo La, a climb of over four hours. At the prayer-flag strewn summit, Makalu and Everest loom impressively on the horizon. The trail has recently been improved to accommodate yaks, and the views from the top are some of the best in all of the Himalayas, with a long and impressive panorama of 7000 & 8000-meter peaks, Gokyo Lake below, and colorful prayer flags sending out prayers in at the windy summit.

After some lunch and photos on top of the Renjo La, we begin the even steeper descent (trekking poles recommended, and possible micro-spikes) down large stone slab steps, often icy, to the lake below. Continuing past several small yak kharkas, the twin Renjo Lakes and an old lake bed with intertwined streams sparkling in the sun, we reach a small, sandy kharka surrounded by old rock walls. From here we begin a steep descent to the season settlement of Lungden in the Thame valley. We stay at the newly renovated Renjo Support Lodge, owned by Ngawang Sangay and his wife Pasi (often Pasi’s sister Sani is also working at the lodge). Ngawang Sangay divides his time between Nepal and Japan, is from Khumjung but runs the lodge in the small, walled, and seasonal hamlet of Lungden. Again, the views are wonderful from the lodge so don’t be lured inside all afternoon by the warm stove. We have trekked down to one of the few still-traditional Sherpa valleys of the otherwise well-trekked Khumbu region. (8 hrs) (B, L, D)
Distance: 11.6km

Day 23 – Trek Thame 3805m/12,480′ (Valley View Lodge)
Today’s Himalayan hike is a step back in time as we pass by many old, walled Sherpa villages, seasonal settlements of the Thame and Thamo villagers. We used to share the trail with Tibetan yak caravans, Khampas trading en route to and from Namche and Tibet with the villagers. We’ll cross an icy stream, jumping from stone to stone before crossing the last section on a small wooden bridge, and follow a high trail above the Bhote Kosi through Marulung (4210m). Just past Marlung, we cross an intersecting stream on a Bailey Bridge; from the climb just afterward we take the higher trail and trek through the top of the traditional Sherpa village of Tarnga, where Sherpa folklore tells of a yeti massacre. Sherpas from throughout the Thame valley own land for growing potatoes in Tarnga, once a seasonal settlement that only grew barley. Above to the left is the triangular, snow-covered Langmuche Ri (6344m).

Just before reaching Thame Thang, we have the option to make a short detour to the small Nyimgmapa Kerok Gompa (Kyarong Sang-Naag Choling Gompa, 3870m), with an intimate courtyard and a new museum. When we reach Thame Thang, we hike past a series of chortens and mani walls, and through the Sherpa village to reach Lhakpa’s sister Serki (and our dzo owner Pasang)’s modest Sherpa house. We’ll stop for a feast of Sherpa potato pancakes and tea for lunch, always a highlight. Their daughter Mingma Choki, who attended Khumjung School used to come to Thame to meet us but now studies in Kathmandu. Mingma’s older sister Pasang Lhamu, finished her schooling at Khumjung and college (+2) in Kathmandu, and in 2022 was applying to universities. And she now works at our Cafe Caravan in Boudha! Their cousin Sonam Chhuten, used to attend Thame School (where she walked 2 hours each way every day from Mende) but now boards at Khumjung School. The Kamzang Fund has sponsored these three lovely girls for their educations for many years, as well as their other cousin Zangmu, also from Thame.

Trekking past the new stupa, we have a small ridge to climb before looking down on the scenic and traditional village of Thame. Thame is an old village of snaking rock walls, yak paddocks, and traditional slate-roofed Sherpa houses. Thame Gompa, perched up to the north of the village, is one of the oldest in the Khumbu, and one of the gompas that celebrates the Dunche festival in the summertime. We stay the night at Lhakpa’s uncle Dr Kami (of Khunde Hospital) and his wife Dawa Dolma’s Valley View Lodge, with the best tongba (fermented millet beer, served in a bamboo container with a long straw and hot water) in the Khumbu. The lovely cook’s lively daughter is named Chandika, and was 10 years old studying at Thame School in 2021, and The Kamzang Fund now sponsors Bipana Rai, age 12 and in class 3 in 2021, who used to stay with Sonam Chhuten’s family. 

Take the afternoon to climb to Thame Gonpa, one of the oldest in the Khumbu, and wander around the walled village. To the west of Thame near the Tashi Labsta La (5755m) which leads to the Rolwaling Valley is Papchermo Ri (6273m), and Sundar Peak (5360m) is just to the north of Thame, a day-climb. Lhakpa’s niece and our yak driver Mingma’s daughter Doma Tenzing teaches at the Thame School, and was also aided in finishing her college degree in Kathmandu The Kamzang Fund. She is now married and living along tomorrow’s trail to Namche. Kunga Palmo, her sister Doma Rigzin’s young daughter, also attends school in Thame. (4 hrs) (B, L, D)
Distance: 11.4km

Day 24 – Trek Namche | via Khari Ani Gompa + Lawudo Gompa 3900m/12,792′ (Moonlight Resort)
Back to Namche, the Moonlight Lodge, hot showers, good food, and cold beers after a beautiful walk from Thame back to Namche. Leaving Thame, we pass Mingma’s house (another yak man, Lhakpa’s cousin, Doma Tenzing’s father) and their newly reconstructed house gompa and prayer wheel. We might stop in at Lhakpa’s younger sister, Pelhamo’s house (where Lhakpa grew up) in the lower end of the village for a cup of tea if she is not in Mende, the family’s winter home. Continuing to descend past ancient, carved mani walls, we cross the deep ravine on a Bailey bridge and gaze up at the wonderful murals of Guru Rimpoche and other Buddhist figures on a rock face high over the Bhote Kosi. We trek through lovely Samde, which has small shrines to mountain deities in the middle of their fields, and then stop for a visit to the beautifully reconstructed Khari Nunnery (ani gompa), which houses lovely nuns originally from Tibet.

KHARI GOMPA | “In 1959, as the Chinese Cultural Revolution raged through Tibet destroying Buddhist monasteries and artifacts and killing thousands of monks and nuns, Khari Rinpoche Lobsang Tsultrim and some of his students fled Tibet. He and his followers crossed over the treacherous Nangpa La (pass) into Nepal and found refuge in the foothills of the Himalayas near Mount Everest. They settled in the village of Thamo. In 1962 some Thamo villagers offered land and in 3 days built a monastery for the nuns and their Lama on the hillside above the village. This became Khari Gonpa, a small Tibetan Buddhist nunnery. By 2002 the prayer hall (lhakang) at the nunnery was too small to accommodate the nuns and local community of Sherpas and Tibetans, and it was in serious disrepair. At that time, His Holiness the Dalai Lama requested the 3rd Khari Rinpoche Tenzin Yonten to design and build a new prayer hall in the same location as the original one. Today the magnificent new lhakang is finished.” – Tara Foundation USA

After a visit to the nunnery, we pass through the scenic village of Thamo where the Nepal army used to have a customs post to control the Tibetan trade over the Nangpa La. The pass is now, sadly, closed to Tibetan traders. An option to visit Lawudo Gompa below, in which case you miss seeing the ani gompa.

LAWUDO GOMPA SIDE TRIP | We can make a side trip to Lawudo Gompa (3900m), affiliated with the renowned Kopan Gompa in Kathmandu, tucked away above Thamo and Mende villages. We take an alternative (and rarely used by trekkers) trail which climbs steeply to the small gompa where Guru Rimpoche meditated in a small cave en route to Tibet. The monk or ani (nun) staying in this magical retreat will inevitably treat us to tea while we take in the spectacular views from the gompa steps. Khumbila, the sacred Sherpa peak, looms overhead, prayer flags from the gompa providing the perfect Himalayan foreground. The local monk, Nawang Chhuldim, assured Kim that this was one of the most beautiful spots in the Khumbu when Kim first happened upon this isolated gompa, high above the main trail. The cave the famous Rimpoche used has been turned into a tiny cave chapel, and there is an eclectic in-house library. Kim has a book on Lawudo Gompa, ask if you want some more history on this monastery.

We’ll have lunch with Lhakpa’s sister in Mende (if she is there and not in Thame), picnic-style in the yard of their local Sherpa stone and shingle house. Locally grown potato pancakes will be on the menu, a Sherpa specialty. From Mende, we drop steeply to the main trail and trek for an hour and a half to Namche, contouring high above the river on an undulating trail, passing two large chortens and ending at the Tibetan puja spot, adorned with thousands of lung-ta (prayer flags), and soon the Namche helipad where we’ll have great views down to the amphitheater of Namche. (4-6 hrs) (B, L, D)
Distance: 10.3km

Day 25 – Trek Lukla 2850m/9348′ (Paradise Lodge)
Leaving Namche along the same trail that we hiked up over a week ago, we hike down the steep hill past the Everest viewpoint to the prayer flag-covered suspension bridge, continue on an hour along the lower trail to Jorsale where we cross the river yet again on a suspension bridge. Jorsale is the home of Phura Diki, one of the girls that the Kamzang Fund has sponsored since class 3. After finishing nursing school (university) in Kathmandu, Phura Diki headed to Sydney to continue her studies, and is now working, and married, in Australia.

After one last steep hill to the National Park gate, we reach the welcome sight of Monjo, green with apple trees and checkered fields. We might run into Dali, the mother of Dawa Yangi and Nimalee, two Monjo sisters that the Kamzang Fund sponsored since class 3 as well. Dawa Yangi has finished her tourism degree in Kathmandu, and also has city and trekking guide licenses, while Nimalee was working at one the high-end lodges in the Khumbu and is now married with a daughter. We’ll stop for lunch 1½ hours away at Shangri La in Phakding, and finish the trek back at Dawa Phuti and Ang Pasang’s Eco Paradise Lodge in Lukla. This cozy dining room is one the nicest in the Everest region, and it’s always an added treat to return to Lukla after the trek. Ang Pasang works closely with the airport, so we are in good hands for our flight out the next morning. We will give out tips and have a party for the Kamzang Journeys staff in the evening! (7-7½ hrs) (B, L, D)
Distance: 18.2km

Day 25 (Option) – Helicopter Lukla 2850m/9348′ (Optional Helicopter Trip)
You’ve already trekked this section of trail, and it’s a long, undulating hiking day from Namche to Lukla. Why not consider sharing a helicopter back to Lukla and relaxing for the rest of the day at Paradise Lodge, enjoying a cappuccino at one of Lukla’s many cafes, doing some craft shop or gallery browsing? Or if you feel like a short hike, you can do a beautiful Chaunrikharka loop.

+ Price of helicopter is approximately $750, so seat dependent on number of passengers.

Day 26 – Fly (or Helicopter) Kathmandu
Bags packed and ready to go before the sun rises as we fly out of Lukla to Kathmandu early this morning. And taking off from the Hillary Airstrip is just as exciting as landing! Flights out of Lukla are sometimes delayed by bad weather, so we suggest booking an extra day in Kathmandu in case of cancellations. In Kathmandu, back at the Kathmandu Guest House, hot showers await, and grubby clothes can be dropped at the laundry. In the evening we’ll get together for dinner at one of Thamel’s many restaurants and celebrate our trek through the Everest region! (B)

TRAVEL NOTE | We strongly recommend scheduling an extra day in Kathmandu in case of flight delays or cancellations out of Lukla or Ramechhap. A shared helicopter is an additional $375.

Day 27 – Trip Ends | Transfer TIA
Transfer to the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) for your flight home. Namaste & Tashi Delek!

Not Enough of Nepal?
We highly suggest taking advantage of your trip to Nepal, adding on excursions into the Kathmandu Valley, Pokhara, Bandipur, Gorkha, the Annapurna Foothills, and Chitwan and Bardia National Park. Enjoy heritage tours, mountain biking, Kathmandu valley hiking, Himalayan panoramas (and a hike down) from the Chandragiri Cable Car, whitewater rafting, yoga and meditation courses, Nepali cooking classes, Buddhist or Hindu retreats, and much more. There are many wonderful, boutique, luxury, and heritage lodges in the Kathmandu Valley, and many options for world heritage sightseeing tours, bicycle trips, hikes, and craft-cuisine tours. Nepal boasts world-class restaurants, chic cafes, timeless alleyways to wander through, countless Hindu and Buddhist festivals, and lots of great shopping.

Don’t miss an Everest sightseeing flight or epic helicopter tour, sightseeing trips to Bhaktapur, Patan, and Panauti (Kathmandu Valley’s other historic and/or capital cities), a weekend at Shivapuri Heights Resort or Dwarikas in Kathmandu, a night at the Fort Hotel in Nagarkot for sunrise and sunset Himalayan panoramas, a spa and wellness getaway at the ultra-luxurious Dwarikas Dhulikhel Resort and visits to ancient temple and monastery complexes such as Namo Buddha, Changu Narayan, and Dakshinkali. Spend a night at The Old Inn in Bandipur or Three Mountain Lodge en route to Pokhara, or The Famous Farm in Nuwakot, and get to know Nepal’s Newar heritage.

Enjoy a luxury 3-6 day trek in the Annapurna Foothills, staying in the wonderful Ker & Downey luxury lodges. Relax in heritage style at Temple Tree Resort in Pokhara for some pampering at the spa and infinity pool, try out paragliding, zip-lining, and enjoy a morning of boating on the lake and the hike to Shanti Stupa. Once refreshed, drive to Chitwan National Park, spending 2 or 3 nights at Maruni Sanctuary Resort or Tiger Tops Tharu Lodge for wildlife and bird spotting, river trips, and safaris in style. Tiger Tops also owns Karnali Lodge at Bardia National Park, reached by flight from Kathmandu, and there are nearby archeological sights to visit nearby.

Namaste!

Nepal Modules
Nepal & Kathmandu Modules | Customize Your Trip!

2026 Dates
6 Nov – 2 Dec
27 Days

2026 Trek Price
$5580
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT (OR KAMZANG FUND DONATION) – $200 OFF!
🚁 Helicopter Cost (+$975 Approximately)

+ Includes ALL Hotels & Lodges, Everest & Makalu Region Permits, Airport Transfers, Domestic Flights, Choice of Meals, Unlimited Hot Drinks, Snacks & Desert, Organic French Press Coffee, Filtered Drinking Water, Warm Washing Water, Hot Water Bottles (Sleeping Bags) & Everest Library. Single 3-Person Tents in Makalu region!
+ Kim & Lhakpa Dorji Sherpa Trek Guides (Kim Guaranteed to Guide with 5+ Trekkers)
+ Single Upgrade Everest Lodges – $250

Kathmandu Guest House Single & Double Upgrades 
+ Deluxe Upgrade Kathmandu Guest House (3 Nights) – $135
+ Suite Upgrade Kathmandu Guest House (3 Nights) – $225

Kathmandu Guest House | Extra Nights Room Price
Includes Breakfast & Taxes

Standard Single – $55
Standard Double – $65
Deluxe Single – $100
Deluxe Double – $110
Suite Single – $130
Suite Double – $140

Everest Region Helicopter Prices
+ Helicopter Kathmandu – Lukla (and Lukla – Kathmandu) ($325 Per Person. Shared Helicopter 5 Pax)
+ Helicopter Namche – Lukla (+$750 Per Helicopter. Max 5 Pax)
+ Helicopter Tengboche or Pangboche-Lukla (+$900 Per Helicopter. Max 5 Pax)
+ Helicopter Lobuche – Lukla (+$1350 Per Helicopter – Max 3 Pax)

Includes

• Kathmandu Guest House (Single Rooms & Breakfast)
• Western & Sherpa Guide | Kim Bannister & Lhakpa Dorji Sherpa
• Lukla – Kathmandu Flights (or Maithili Flights)
• Private Transport to Makalu Region
• Single Tents (When You Want) on Makalu Trek
• All Lodges on Khumbu Trek (Boutique & Luxury Lodge Upgrade Options)
• Choice of Meals from Lodge Menus, Freshly Ground French Press Coffee, Unlimited Hot Drinks, Snacks, Desert & Hot Water Bottle!
• See Kamzang Journeys Lodge Trekking (below) for more ‘Extras’!
• Everest & Makalu Region Trekking Permits
• Kamzang Journeys T-Shirt (& Discounts on Kamzang Journeys Gear)
• Airport Transfers
• Local Expertise | 25+ Years of Experience in the Everest Region
• Kamzang Journeys Lodge Trekking | Your choice off the menus at the lodges, a variety of teas (including herbal and green), French Press organic Nepali coffee, variety of hot drinks, snacks, chocolate & desserts, filtered drinking water, hot water bottles at night, gas heater in dining room (when group larger than 5 pax), double rooms at lodges, extensive medical kit, satellite phone (extra charge applies), oxygen (extra charge applies), library of Everest books, yaks (or dzobkios) for portering gear, Sherpa & Western guides and our fabulous Kamzang Journeys staff!

Safety & Health Precautions | Included in Trek

• Thuraya Satellite Phone
• Helicopter Evacuation Services – Excluding Cost of Evacuation
• Oxygen Saturation Monitoring System
• Full Medical Kit, Medical Experience & Stretcher
• Ceramic Filtered Drinking Water
• Safe, Sanitary, Delicious & Plentiful Food & Drinks

Excludes

• International Flights
• Nepal Visa
• Travel, Trip Cancellation or Travel Medical Insurance
• Helicopter Rescue Service Cost
• Helicopter Shuttle Service to-from Lukla (In case of flight delays or cancellation)
• Lunch & Dinners in Kathmandu
• Equipment Rental
• Boiled Drinking Water
• Alcohol & Bottled Drinks
• Showers
• Battery Charging at Lodges
• Laundry
• Tipping & Other Items of a Personal Nature

Tips & Extra Cash
Allow approx $250 for meals in Kathmandu (while not on trek), drinks & snacks (on trek) and tips. We recommend $350 – $400 per trekker into the tips pool for the crew.

TripAdvisor Reviews!

Why Travel with Kamzang Journeys?
Why Trek with Us?

Kamzang Journeys Reviews!
Kamzang Journeys Reviews

Trek Highlights

• 3 Himalayan Passes | Renjo La, Cho La & Kongma La
• 3 Himalayan Peaks | Kala Pattar, Gokyo Ri & Chhukhung Ri
• 2 Base Camps | Everest Base Camp & Amadablam Base Camp
• 2 Glacier Crossings | Khumbu Glacier & Gokyo Ngozumpa Glacier
• Tibetan Buddhist Monasteries | Lawudo, Pangboche, Namche, Thame, Khunde & Khumjung Gompas
• Sublimely Beautiful Gokyo Lakes Valley
• Spectacular High Trail to Phortse
• Chhukhung & Island Peak Base Camp Valley
• Traditionally Sherpa Villages in the Thame & Khumbu Valleys
• Saturday Market at Namche Bazaar
• Rare Himalayan Wildlife + Birds
• Wonderful, Warm Sherpa lodges
• Cultural Immersion into Tibetan Sherpa Culture
• Extra Acclimatization, Peak Gazing & Exploration Days
• Breathtaking Sunrises & Sunsets over Himalayan Peaks
• Special Kamzang Menus Freshly Prepared from Sherpa Lodges
• Hot Water Bottles & Hot Washing Water
• Kamzang Library
• Kim, Lhakpa & the Kamzang Team
• THE BEST of Trekking in the Everest Region & the Nepal Himalaya!

Client Highlights

Magnificent treks and highly professional! I have trekked with Kim 5 times, 4 in Ladakh in Northern India and 1 in Nepal. On all 5 occasions the treks were very well organized and run in a very professional manner. Kim’s crew are all enthusiastic and are very happy to provide assistance where necessary. As trekkers you are very well looked after with individual tents and a large tent for socializing and dining. Kim and Lhakpa plan their treks so they are interesting and that they go off the beaten track and you are not walking in procession with other trekking groups, Kim is aware of the different needs and capabilities of her trekkers and her daily itineraries cater for all. On the more challenging parts of her treks Kim and her crew are always there to support. I hope to do more trekking with Kim and Kamzang Journeys and highly recommend them!
– Dennis B (Australia),Nomads, Lakes & High Passes Trek 2015, Sky Caves & Last Nomads of Mustang Trek 2014, Wild Ladakh & Zanskar Trek 2013, Everest High Passes 2024

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Simply the best! As a very experienced Himalayan trekker who just did THREE STRAIGHT TRIPS with Kamzang Journeys, I can’t imagine booking a trek with any other company in the future. Kim and Lhakpa are so experienced, so professional and so much fun to walk with, and their attention to every detail, like hot water bottles for our sleeping bags every cold night on the High Everest trek, is amazing. Even after Kim broke her wrist coming down from the Renja La she was focused on making sure we were all okay. Amazing!
– Tom B (Canada), Wild Ladakh & Zanskar, Upper Dolpo to Mustang & Everest High Passes Treks

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High passes, nomads and wild, remote Himalayan country: adventure is never far! I have just returned from two months of trekking in the Ladakh & Zanskar region of the India Himalaya with Kim and her excellent Kamzang Journeys team. This was my EIGHTH trek with Kim, and they get better each year. Kamzang Journeys never disappoints! From the very high standard, variety and amount of food and the spacious 3-man tents (for each individual) to the safety and care shown by the Kamzang Journeys staff and the unique Yellow Tent  that all other groups envy. If you are looking for a remote, interesting trek or trip in Asia I would highly recommend Kamzang Journeys. There is a reason everyone comes back again and again!
– Sue W (Australia) Wild Ladakh & Zanskar, Upper Dolpo to Mustang & Everest High Passes Treks

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Kamzang Journeys are the premier Himalayan trekking company. My last FIVE treks have been with Kamzang Journeys, and I won’t go with any other company now. Highly recommended!
– Andrew M (Australia), Ultimate Ladakh & Zanskar, Nomads, Lakes & High Passes, Wild Manaslu & Tsum, Sky Caves & Last Nomads of Mustang Treks & More

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If you want to go trekking in the Himalayas, don’t look any further; you cannot beat Kamzang Journeys! Kim and Lhakpa, Western service, local knowledge, respect for the people and the nature. And the most diverse list of trips around! Anytime again!
– Andreas R (Germany), Everest High Passes Trek

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I have done MANY treks with Kim and Lhakpa (and Kamzang Journeys), and would not hike in the Himalayas with anyone else. Their passion, expertise, safety and incredible itineraries are the best around. Am planning my next trek with them now!
– Lorraine H (Australia) Everest High Passes

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I did the Kamzang Everest High Passes Trek 2021, and it was a fantastic experience! The crew took great care of us, and even managed a special Thanksgiving dinner. I was very impressed with their professionalism and the “above and beyond” they offered!
– Rebecca D (USA), Everest High Passes Trek 2021

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I did the Everest High Passes lodge trek with my daughter Nov-Dec. 2023 and am inspired to write my first ever online review. This was a totally terrific trip! Kim and Lhakpa (owners) and their entire team are 10/10. Well organized, very challenging, but always fun. So much positive energy. The scenery is way beyond the capacity of pictures to portray. The best acclimatization schedule I have ever experienced. I want to especially recognize the consistent trekker centered focus. Health considerations required two helicopter evacuations. These were efficiently organized (good outcomes) with the health of the trekker the absolute first priority. I really appreciated knowing that if I had difficulties the Kamzang team would take care of me.
– Burton V (USA), Everest High Passes Lodge Trek 2023

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I trekked with Kim’s team to Everest Base Camp in November 2023 with a private guide and it was an amazing experience that I would highly recommend! Kim has been working with her team for many years, and it shows. They work seamlessly together and really take care of their clients. You always feel safe and cared for, surrounded by people who have spent extensive time trekking in the Himalayas. My husband and I hiked to Everest Base Camp with our Sherpa Phu Tashi, and I would highly recommend him. Not only did we always feel safe and cared for we truly enjoyed the time we spent together. It is important to like your guide if you are going to be trekking together for two weeks and I can say we were sad to have to say goodbye. The mountains are beautiful and the wonderful people we met along the way made this experience even better. Kim and her team are great at what they do and I would not hesitate to book with them again for our next adventure.
– Rachel & Francis (USA), Private Everest High Passes Lodge Trek (Helicopter Return) 2023

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I recently had the pleasure of taking part in an unforgettable trekking journey with Kamzang Journeys, and it was truly a highlight of my time in Nepal. Our guides, Kim and Lhakpa, were simply incredible; their knowledge and expertise of the region was remarkable. From navigating the winding trails of the Himalayas to providing valuable insight into the culture and customs of local people, they always looked out for us and made sure we were safe at all times. The accommodation they arranged for us was comfortable and cozy, and the meals provided during our stay were delicious. Overall, this was an amazing experience that we will never forget – thanks to Kim and Lhakpa! Highly recommended. 5 stars!
– Robert B (USA), Everest High Passes Trek 2022

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I recently had the pleasure of taking part in an unforgettable trekking journey with Kamzang Journeys, and it was truly a highlight of my time in Nepal. Our guides, Kim and Lhakpa, were simply incredible; their knowledge and expertise of the region was remarkable. From navigating the winding trails of the Himalayas to providing valuable insight into the culture and customs of local people, they always looked out for us and made sure we were safe at all times. The accommodation they arranged for us was comfortable and cozy, and the meals provided during our stay were delicious. Overall, this was an amazing experience that we will never forget – thanks to Kim and Lhakpa! Highly recommended. 5 stars!
– Robert B (USA), Everest High Passes Trek 2022

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Transcendent, blissful, mind-blowing! I’ve been planning to go trekking in the Himalayas for many years, and Kim at Kamzang was patient and thorough with all the pre-trip logistics. The hotel in Kathmandu has a great location and is very comfortable. I don’t usually book my travels with travel agencies or trekking guide companies, but in this case, I have no regrets and will definitely work with Kamzang again! The journey up the valley unfolded magnificently. The weather was perfect every day in November. I met guide Gumbu Sherpa on the day of departure for Lukla, and Gumbu knew every step of the route, every site on and off the trail, and most of the lodge operators. He set a perfect pace. I at first felt a bit apprehensive about traveling solo, but it was really a gift and a great chance to bond with a man that I came to love and respect very much. Our route was up the Gokyo valley and across Renjo La pass. I loved the route, and have no regrets about having chosen it vs the Everest Base Camp route. Fall, 2021 was a rare opportunity. The Khumbu had just reopened, and the number of travelers was at a low point not seen since the 1970s. I consider myself extremely lucky to have experienced the place with so few other people around and I plan to return as soon as possible.
– Peter Cohn (USA), Private Everest Base Camp Trek (Nepal) 2021

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Everest High Passes Lodge Trek, Nepal. I joined Kamzang Journeys on my first, and hopefully not last, trek with this amazing team. Kim Bannister, Lhakpa Dorji Sherpa, and their crew of dedicated, helpful, resourceful assistants (special thanks to Junar and Suresh for support) organize and manage a well-planned and thoughtful approach to trekking at high altitudes. Their trekking style is enhanced by their local knowledge of the region (Khumbu region/Everest), welcome comforts such as an abundance of warm drinks and treats, insights into local communities and opportunities to connect with them, and a plethora of travel prep and on-the-ground advice make everyone feel prepared and comfortable. Importantly, this is great group of people to spend time with! Truly an excellent trekking company. Looking forward to the next adventure with Kamzang Journeys!
– Karen & Jay (USA), Everest High Passes Lodge Trek 2021

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Transcendent, blissful, mind blowing! I’ve been planning to go trekking in the Himalayas for many years, and finally got it together to go. The pandemic posed a few challenges, but Nepal finally opened just in time for the planned trek. Kim at Kamzang Journeys was patient and thorough for all the pre-trip logistics. The hotel in Kathmandu has a great location and is very comfortable. I met our private guide Gumbu Sherpa on the day of departure for Lukla. The journey up the valley unfolded magnificently. The weather was perfect every day in November. Gumbu knew every step of the route, every site on and off the trail, and most of the lodge operators. He set a perfect pace. I at first felt a bit apprehensive about traveling solo, but it was really a gift and a great chance to bond with a man that I came to love and respect very much. Our route was up the Gokyo valley and across Renjo La pass. I loved the route, and have no regrets about having chosen it vs the Everest Base Camp route. Autumn of 2021 was a rare opportunity; the Khumbu had just reopened, and the number of travelers was at a low point not seen since the 1970s. I consider myself extremely lucky to have experienced the place with so few other people around. However, I plan to return as soon as possible. I don’t usually book my travels with travel agencies or trekking guide companies, but in this case, I have no regrets and will definitely work with Kamzang Journeys again!
– Peter C (USA), Private Everest Base Camp Lodge Trek 2021

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This was my 2nd trek with Kamzang Journeys. Kim, Lhakpa & all the other Kamzang folks are incredible! Everyone is extremely knowledgable about trekking, the area and the small things that make for an incredible experience while hiking through the Himalayas.

We had hot water bottles at night to keep our sleeping bags warm, we always had hot drinks and snacks waiting for us at the end of the day. And all of the personal relationships Kamzang has throughout the area – on both treks in Ladakh & Zanskar, the Indian Himalaya, and in the Everest Region of Nepal. A truly special life experience, twice!
– Kristy O (USA), Everest High Passes Lodge Trek 2021

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Kim, the Everest High Passes trek was such a life’s adventure journey! ❤️ The trip of a lifetime, double that with my earlier Ladakh & Zanskar camping trek with Kamzang Journeys! You have such a special style, along with an unbelievable staff. Thank you so much for the gift of this trip!
– Kristy O (USA), Everest High Passes Lodge Trek (Nepal)

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I did the Kamzang Journeys Everest High Passes Trek in November 2021, and it was a fantastic experience! The crew took great care of us, and even managed a special Thanksgiving dinner. I was very impressed with their professionalism and the “above and beyond” they offered to make sure we were okay all the way to the airport during the challenging COVID times.
– Rebecca D (USA), Everest High Passes Trek 2021

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I joined Kamzang Journeys in November 2021 on my first, and hopefully not last, trek with this amazing team. Kim Bannister, Lhakpa Dorji Sherpa, and their crew of dedicated, helpful, resourceful assistants (special thanks to Junar and Suresh for support) organize and manage a well-planned and thoughtful approach to trekking at high altitudes. Their trekking style is enhanced by their local knowledge of the region (the Khumbu – Everest region), welcome comforts such as an abundance of warm drinks and treats, insights into local communities and opportunities to connect with them, and a plethora of travel prep and on-the-ground advice make everyone feel prepared and comfortable. Importantly, this is a great group of people to spend time with! Truly an excellent trekking company. Looking forward to the next adventure with Kamzang Journeys!
– Karen G (USA), Everest High Passes Trek 2021

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The Everest High Passes Trek was my second trek with Kamzang Journeys. Kim, Lhakpa and all the other Kamzang folks are incredible. Everyone is extremely knowledgeable about trekking, the Khumbu region, and all the small things that make for an incredible experience while hiking through the Himalayas! We had hot water bottles at night to keep our sleeping bags warm, we always had hot drinks and snacks waiting for us at the end of the day. And all of the personal relationships Kamzang has throughout the area — on both treks in Ladakh & Zanskar, the Indian Himalaya, and in the Everest Region of Nepal. A truly special life experience, twice!!
– Kristy O (USA), Everest High Passes Trek (Nepal) 2021

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A huge thank you to you all for a wonderful and memorable trip to the beautiful and awesome Khumbu and fascinating Kathmandu! Three weeks I will never forget. Ella and I would unhesitatingly recommend Kamzang to anyone. We greatly appreciated all the help and guidance during the (extended!) planning and preparation phase and, once we were in Nepal, we felt very well looked after.
– Nick + Ella (UK), Private Everest Base Camp Trek 2021

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This was my second Himalayan trip with Kamzang Journeys, and again I can report this is arguably THE best trekking outfitter in Nepal and Tibet! What sets Kamzang apart is how they design their treks and how they work with their clients on an individual basis to optimize the experience. No other company is able to give a better experience to trekkers of different abilities and levels of fitness traveling together as a group. Our group of 12 Westerners ranged from extremely fit marathon runners and triathletes to older clients like me who are not particularly fit – slow hikers that liked to stop and take frequent photographs. Trekkers were always accompanied by a staff member on the trail and the crew kept in contact with trip leaders Kim and Lhakpa by radio at all times. If someone became ill, their itinerary was rearranged to help them recover without having to leave the trip early.

Co-leader Lhakpa easily arranged transit flights by helicopter for clients who felt unable to tackle any of the high passes by arrangement with rescue companies for a nominal cost. Staff members who hiked with me looked after my well-being every day of the trip by reminding me to stay hydrated and by carrying my day pack and heavy camera gear. Always cheerful and with 20 years of outfitting experience in the Himalaya, Kim and company keep their clients healthy and safe, in spite of the lower-than-average rates they charge for their trips. I would recommend Kamzang Journeys to anyone wishing to experience the Himalayas and Tibet on treks ranging from the ultra-popular Everest Base Camp trip to more remote treks in regions less frequented by Westerners.
– Karl M (USA), Everest High Passes Trek (Nepal) 2019

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I recently completed the Everest High Passes Trek with 2 adult sons, our first trip to Nepal and the Himalaya, and also, my first time on an organized trip of this duration. Our experience with Kamzang Journeys and this trek completely exceeded our expectations. SuperstarAdelaide and Karl M were both members of our group, so I won’t repeat what they have put in their reviews, but will say that I echo their sentiments completely! I will add that I did a lot of research prior to booking with Kamzang, and will say that what you get for the price they charge is a bargain. They take care of every detail, everything is included in the trip price, and any extras you may wish to add on is clearly communicated as an additional charge before the trip – no surprises. A factor not reflected in the price is that Kim and Lhakpa are actually on the trip with you. Having the owners/organizers communicate with you prior to the trip, and then accompany you on the trip added immeasurable value to the entire experience. It is unusual for me to place a month’s worth of vacation in someone else’s hands, but I would travel with Kamzang Journeys again in a heartbeat!
– Mark D & Sons (USA), Everest High Passes Lodge Trek 2019

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Another great Kamzang Journeys trek! This was my 6th Kamzang Journey trek with Kim and Lhakpa. As on the previous 5 treks, this one exceeded my expectations. Kim runs a very organized and exciting trek, the level of detail and safety precautions are second to none, the Kamzang Journeys staff are interesting and engaging. There are not many trekking companies that have the knowledge and contacts in the Khumbu (Everest) region as Kamzang Journeys does. If you are keen to trek in Nepal, India or Bhutan I would very highly recommend Kim, Lhakpa and the Kamzang Journeys team!
– Sue W (Australia), Everest High Passes Trek 2019

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An excellent trekking company, providing great service and value! I completed the Everest High Passes Trek with two adult sons, our first trip to Nepal and the Nepal Himalaya. Also, my first time on an organized trip of this duration. Our experience with Kamzang Journeys and this trek completely exceeded our expectations. I will add that I did a lot of research prior to booking with Kamzang Journeys, and will say that what you get for the price they charge is a bargain. They take care of every detail, everything is included in the trip price, and any extras you may wish to add on are clearly communicated as an additional charge before the trip – no surprises. A factor not reflected in the price is that Kim and Lhakpa are actually on the trip with you. Having the owners-organizers communicate with you prior to the trip, and then accompany you on the trip added immeasurable value to the entire experience. It is unusual for me to place a month’s worth of vacation in someone else’s hands, but I would travel with Kamzang again in a heartbeat!
– Mark, Cory + Eric D (USA), Everest High Passes Trek 2019

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I did the Everest High Passes 25-day trek with Kim and Lhakpa of Kamzang Journeys in Nov 2018. This trek not only includes incredible scenery but is a cultural experience. Kim seems to know everyone in the Khumbu so you are constantly running into people she has known for many years and sometimes invited to have tea. Lhakpa grew up in the region; we had lunch at his sister’s house, tea at another relative’s house and one of the lodges we stayed in is owned by his aunt and uncle, so you get a real sense of the Sherpa culture.

Kamzang Journeys has many extras that make the trip easier such as daily hot washing water, hot water bottles for sleeping, never empty candy and cookie containers, French press coffee, hot chocolate and assorted teas. The staff bends over backwards to help. Kim has extensive medical knowledge and a full medical kit. Lhakpa seems to have connections everywhere and even arranged a good priced helicopter ride for 7 of us to avoid the difficult Cho La pass when we were sick. If you are looking for a trek in the Everest region I strongly recommend Kamzang Journeys. They also do treks in the surrounding areas which some members of our group had done. 5 of the 8 people on our trek had trekked with Kamzang Journeys before.
– Margaret T, Everest High Passes Trek 2019

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I have just completed the Everest High Passes trek with Kamzang Journeys. I cannot praise too highly the team of Kim Bannister and her business partner Lhakpa Dorji Sherpa and the treks that they lead, all across the Himalaya region. I previously trekked with them in Ladakh, and have already signed up to join them for a fantastic journey into Tibet in May. As a testament to how loyal their clients are, on this last trek, 5 of the 8 trekkers were repeat clients and 3 had trekked with Kim multiple times before. At dinner the first night we joked that our lives AK (after Kim) were much better than BK (before Kim). They know the Himalaya backwards and forwards; the trips are well organized and thoughtfully scheduled, with every detail taken care of. In short, you will not go wrong booking a trip with Kamzang Journeys.
– Clark P (USA), Everest High Passes Trek 2018

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I trekked the Everest High Passes 25-day trek with Kim and Lhakpa of Kamzang Journeys in 2018. This trek not only includes incredible scenery, but is a cultural experience. Kim seems to know everyone in the Khumbu so you are constantly running into people she has known for many years and sometimes are invited to have tea. Lhakpa grew up in the region and has many relatives. We had lunch at his sister’s house, tea at another relative’s house and one of the lodges we stayed in is owned by his aunt and uncle. So you get a real sense of the Sherpa culture. Kamzang Journeys has many extras that make the trip easier such as daily hot washing water, hot water bottles for sleeping, never-empty candy and cookie containers, French press coffee, hot chocolate and assorted teas. The staff bends over backwards to help. Kim has extensive medical knowledge and a full medical kit. Lhakpa seems to have connections everywhere and even arranged a good-priced helicopter ride for 7 of us to avoid the difficult Cho La pass when we were sick with the Khumbu cough. If you are looking for a trek in the Everest region I strongly recommend Kamzang Journeys. They also do treks in the surrounding areas which some members of our group had done. 5 of the 8 people on our trek had trekked with Kamzang Journeys before.
– Peggy T (US), Everest High Passes Trek 2018

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Kamzang Journeys is a great trekking company! I did the Everest Three (High) Passes trek in 2018 and it was amazing. Kim is extremely knowledgeable and always upbeat.
– Peggy T (USA), Everest High Passes Trek 2018

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Kim, a big thanks to you and your team for a great trek! Your enthusiasm, attention to detail, and organizational skills are all most impressive. Your Kamzang Journeys team is first class and it all added up to, once again, a very satisfying and memorable experience!
– Viv D (Australia), Everest High Passes 2017

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Trekking isn’t the easiest “vacation” you could take, especially in the high country of Nepal. Lhakpa and Kim, along with their amazing staff, make a trip to the high Himalaya much better than you could ever experience doing it alone. From hot water bottles to warm your sleeping bag to the endless hot drinks, your journey will be better with Kamzang!
– Kamzang Trekker, Everest High Passes Trek 2017

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A terrific company to discover Nepal! Kamzang Journeys is a great company to go hiking with. From the initial contact to plan for your trip until the airport to fly back home – every detail was immaculate. Kim is a super communicator and treats every client at a personal level. Her team of Sherpa’s and porters are hard working, fun, and committed. I plan to travel with them again soon.
– Nag, Private Sacred Gokyo Lakes Trek 2017

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   We completed a private Everest trek arranged by Kamzang Journeys with Kamzang Journeys in Dec17. The trek from Lukla was over 15 days and from the time of our arrival in Kathmandu until our departure 25 days later Kamzang Journeys were the ultimate professionals They organized all accommodations, transport, meals, guide and porter. The whole experience was wonderful and went off without a hitch. We attribute our success to the care and attention provided by Kamzang and the wealth of knowledge that they brought to support our trek Thank you to Kim, Lhakpa, Phu Tashi and Babu Ram Rai. It was a pleasure to meet you all and you created an experience for us that we will never forget!
– Bridget + George, Private Sacred Gokyo Lakes Trek 2017

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Best treks ever! I just finished my second trek with Kamzang Journeys, my ninth Himalayan trek overall, so I’ve seen quite a variety of what the industry has to over. Kamzang offers the best itineraries, with meticulous attention to safety and comfort, with minimal environmental impact and maximal cultural interaction. These experiences are not to be missed.
– Gary G (USA), Ladakh Nomads, Lakes + High Passes Trek 2016

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Thank you for everything you did to make our anniversary trip special. From the extras at our hotel rooms to the amazing quality, warmth and hospitality of every person who works with you – we were blown away by the trip you planned. We loved meeting you, Lhakpa, Doma and all the guides, drivers and porters who created such a hassle-free and seamless environment for us to explore beautiful Nepal.  Thank you so much – you created a truly life changing and unforgettable trip for us.

– Kim + Bob (USA), Private Amazing Nepal Trek 2016 (Honeymoon Trip)

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Thanks again Kim for such a wonderful and challenging trip. It definitely wasn’t the most relaxing holiday ever but probably the most rewarding holiday I’ve ever taken. We wouldn’t have got through it without your support and encouragement.
– Bec Leiberman (Australia) – Everest High Passes Trek 2016

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Kamzang journeys was extremely helpful in every respect great info on what was needed answered every question quickly and their people on the ground were lovely def recommend to anyone traveling to use them.
– Zack (Australia), Private Everest High Passes Trek 2016

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I had a fantastic trip with Kamzang Journeys and am really looking forward to my next one with them!
– Steve C (USA), Ladakh Nomads, Lakes & High Passes Trek 2015

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Kamzang Journeys has set the bar very high for treks in the Himalayas!
– Jim C (USA), Upper Mustang, Upper Dolpo to Mustang + Everest High Passes Treks

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I just returned from the Everest High Passes Trek with Kamzang Journeys in November. AWESOME!! A trek I will never forget, it was for me a dream come true to travel to Nepal and see the beautiful Himalayan Mountains. The villages, customs, food, and the beautiful people of Nepal made it a truly fabulous experience. It was not always easy however very achievable thanks to Kim Bannister, Lhakpa and their team (Junar, Suresh and Yam) from Kamzang Journeys. Their attention to detail made for a very safe and comfortable trek. There was always someone watching over me and giving me support and encouraegement when I needed. Kim’s experience in trekking, understanding of the customs and tradition and not to mention her comprehensive medical knowledge was invaluable.
– Diana P (Australia), Everest High Passes Trek 2015

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The best in the Everest region! Some of the most spectacular landscapes in the Nepalese Himalayas, a window on the traditional villages of Sherpas and the gompas (monasteries), their Buddhist culture of mountains as well their summits and sacred valleys. The Everest area is a very spiritual and colorful place and we spent a little more than three weeks hiking around the world’s highest mountains. Thanks to Kim and the entire team of Kamzang Journeys for allowing me to discover this wonderful place!
– Adam D, Everest High Passes Trek 2015

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I’ve traveled with Kamzang Journeys twice on their Wild Ladakh and Everest High Passes treks, and and yearn for another chance! Every detail is expertly handled. After eight weeks with the Kamzang team I have nothing but gratitude and admiration for their attention to my comfort and well-being in very high places.

– Chris R (USA), Wild Ladakh & Zanskar Trek, Everest High Passes 2015

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I really enjoyed my cultural trek in the Khumbu + Everest region. It was good to have a local guide in Tashi. He was such a quiet and gentle guy, and I was impressed with his respect for culture and Buddist philosophy. I was able to learn about the way of life in the villages and about the gardens and crops. also it was interesting to visit the monasteries and hear about Buddhist practices and philosophy. The route chosen was great – away from the main trekking routes and very scenic. I could feel myself becoming more acclimatized and fitter after a few days above 3000m. Basanta was such a cheerful porter and always greeted us with a big smile.

All the flights and connections went smoothly thanks to Lakpa and Doma in Kathmandu and Tashi and the host from Paradise Lodge at Lukla. Doma was very generous with her time and went with me to see Durbar Square. Kathmandu Guest House was lovely and the staff were so helpful, especially Binod. I was able to meet up with Celesta on the last day as she had just arrived in Kathmandu. So a  verymemorable trip. Thanks so much!
– Maureen H, Private Everest Cultural Trek

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I can’t wait to return to do another trek with Kim and her great team from Kamzang Journeys!
– Diana P (Australia), Everest High Passes Trek 2015

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I just got back from this picturesque part of the world (Everest region, Nepal). Having never attempted anything like this previously I decided to do this as a tea house trek through Kamzang Journeys. Kim Bannister and her team provided this adventure seamlessly from airport transfers, accommodation in Kathmandu, internal flights and guiding our group tirelessly throughout the Everest region. Thoroughly enjoyed the ever changing mountain vistas, the challenge of crossing a high pass, mingling with the locals and embracing their cultures, the nightly chats around the fire in the tea houses and our yak train which followed us throughout most of our trek. This trek is no walk in the park! But with Kim and her staff supporting you along the journey, this trek is very achievable. As a testament to this, our group (age range ~35-70 years young!) completed the itinerary with very few problems. Became friends with a very impressive group of people on this trek who shared a passion for an Himalayan adventure! I would not hesitate to travel with Kim and her staff from Kamzang journeys again!
– Tony H (Australia), Everest High Passes Trek 2015

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Last May I spent almost three weeks hiking with Mingma in the Khumbu region of Nepal and we explored the Gokyo lakes, Gokyo valley and we climbed Gokyo Ri. Mingma is an experienced mountain-guide, knows all the summits in the region, the Sherpas and routes.  He is responsive of the challenges, strong and kind, but he is very calm in case of difficult situations. While we walked together, he was attentive and he always tried to accommodate my phyisical condition and my spiritual eagerness. We spent wonderful time together and I immensely enjoyed every moment of the trek. I am planning to walk with him again in 2015!
– Kati K (Hungary), Private Gokyo Lakes Trek 2014

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Viney was my private guide to trek to Everest base camp in October 2013.  I felt very secure with him the entire time.  He was always attentive to my wellbeing from the time we started in x (kim pls fill in) where we ended up slogging through rainfall and mud due to the cyclone left over from India, all the way through to the end of our trip in Lukla.  I could count on him without a doubt every day of the entire 3 weeks we spent together.  Thanks to Viney for an excellent trek!
– Lori C (USA), Private Everest High Passes Trek 2014

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Trips of a lifetime! I have accompanied Kim, Lhakpa, and her longtime staff of friends on two astounding treks since 2007. Our trip through western Nepal to Kailash and across Tibet to Lhasa was unforgettable and a triumph of organizing skill and flexibility in dealing with the vagaries of travel in the TAR. Last year’s Everest High Passes trek in the comparatively well travelled Solo Khumbu region was extremely well-run, featuring nuanced interactions with village life in and around Sagamartha National Park and a great degree of attention paid to the individual needs of trekkers. Their professional approach to acclimatization scheduling and ongoing assessment/support of their groups is exemplary, and a real plus in successfully guiding groups of mixed abilities safely and enjoyably in challenging remote terrain. I would not hesitate to join them again, and recommend their services wholeheartedly.
– Dave R (Hawaii), Sacred Kailash Trek 2017, Everest High Passes 2014

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Be PROUD of all you have created and built, Kim. This is amazingly terrific and fabulous!
– Laurence V, (Switzerland), Ladakh, Zanskar + Srinagar Cycling 2016, Nomads, Lakes + High Passes Trek 2016, Lhasa Christmas 2013 & Everest Gokyo Lakes Trek 2011

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I had a minute to reflect on the past 9 weeks and I feel overwhelmed by how good the time has been. And in every memory, every achievement, every moment I feel a gratitude to both of you, Kim and Lhakpa, for making it possible and eternally memorable. Thank you for making this trip one of the most memorable ones in my lifetime. Kim, you have been a friend when I needed one, a leader when the group needed one, an impeccable organizer, and a great conversationalist. I marvel at your unlimited energy!
– Shiven M (USA & India), Upper Dolpo to Jomsom 2012, Everest High Passes 2012, Last Nomads of Mustang 2011

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A great trek! Kim and Lhakpa are a great partnership, together with their very experienced Nepali support crew they were able to look after every need of the 10 trekkers that completed this journey. They go the extra mile in many different ways: a very good acclimatization programme, coffee, teas & extra snacks before & with meals, gas heater to ensure cold mornings in tea houses were more comfortable, plus incredible support while trekking. This team are very well respected in the Everest region & rightfully so.  I would recommend this company and tour to anyone wanting “something more” the standard Everest Base Camp tour offered by so many companies.
– Graham P (New Zealand), Everest High Passes Trek 2014

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What an experience! Kim, Lhapka and their amazing team at Kamzang Journeys will give you an incredible experience to remember! Whatever trip you choose, you will be introduced to local culture, traditions and daily life. They know the regions well and most of the local people. Their respect for the environment and the local people is something I will never forget. Their small team have worked with them for many years and they will look after all your needs!
– Lana H (Australia), Everest High Passes Trek 2012, Wild Ladakh Zanskar Trek 2014

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I have been on treks with Kim four times. All her trips are superbly well organized and smoothly run. Everything is take care of. The food is great and accommodation good. The only thing you have to do is the walking. It’s a five star service and great value.
– Peter H (UK), Arun Valley & Gokyo Christmas Trek, Ladakh & Zanskar Treks

– Alice B (UK), Nomads, Lakes & High Passes Trek 2013

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Kamzang Journeys’ unique and challenging trek deep into remote Upper Dolpo is an astounding look at a vanishing culture. Kim, Lhakpa and her crew run a tight ship, motivate, and also provide some TLC on tough days when altitude or a bug may get the better of you. I stayed on in Nepal, did a couple weeks of rest, and then headed out on Kamzang’s Everest High Passes trek. Never do I expect to witness views like this trip! Plus Kamzang routes you 10-12 days beyond the Everest Base Camp crowds into sublimely beautiful and less traveled parts of Khumbu high peaks area. I truly hope to book another trip with Kim and Kanzang soon.

Completely unique adventure travel experience, and I’ve done a lot. And you are very well looked after while working your butt off on the trails!
– Mike D (USA), GHT | Upper Dolpo to Mustang 2012 ,Everest High Passes Treks 2012

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Since first visiting Nepal in 1993 I have wanted to do the Everest High Passes trek but thought it would be too difficult. As I neared “senior citizen” status I decided it to give it a go, and a friend recommended Kamzang Journeys. The trek itself was amazing, and I was very happy with the quality of service provided by Kim and her team. There was always someone to assist you over any tricky spots, and Kim and her staff were cheerful, helpful and encouraging. The trek is well planned for acclimatization, and has the flexibility to adapt the itinerary according to how trekkers are coping. I would highly recommend Kim’s treks to anyone wanting a first rate trek in the Himalayas.
– Jan S (Australia), Everest High Passes Trek 2012

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The BEST! Kim, Lhakpa and their crew are true professionals: supremely organized, knowledgeable, safe, punctual, and very helpful when needed. Their cheerful attitude makes it a supreme package.
– Vladamir R (USA) – Everest High Passes 2012

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Thank you for a GREAT TREK! You, Lhakpa and the guides really did us proud! Would I recommend your High Passes of Everest trek to others? A definite YES! You took us to all the best view points in the Khumbu where we had FANTASTIC VIEWS of Everest and so many other beautiful mountains. Your itinery also gave us longer at the high points (eg Gorak Shep and Gokyo) than most companies. The guides were excellent doing everything they could to make our holiday truly memorable. They were ready to help with an arm when needed and so patient and smiley when we were slow. Lhakpa was always working hard to ensure everything ran smoothly, so much so that it was easy not to notice all he did, which included using his contacts to secure us flights out of Lukla. But, Kim, you made the trek! Once you had had your morning coffee, you were always smiling, working hard, encouraging us and sorting out our various ailments! It was lovely to see you with the locals, including Lhakpa’s mother in her traditional Sherpa’s house. Young and old they were all so pleased to see you. Apart from the maountains and the views my lasting memory will be of you with your enthusiasm and SMILE!
– Martin S (UK), Everest High Passes 2012

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Thanks to Kim and Lhakpa for the wonderful trip you put on, the mix of Western and Nepalese input and organisation works very well. The time taken to acclimatise, the direction taken and the coverage of the Everest region looked to me to be as good as you could get. On reflection this was one of my lifetimes best trips, THANKS. To my fellow trekkers thanks for your company, not a sour or dull moment, sheering the experience with all you people certainly enhanced my trip!
– Roger D (New Zealand), Everest High Passes 2012

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Before I decided to go on an Everest High Pass I did a year’s worth of research and finally decided to go with Kamzang. I’m so glad that I decided to go with Kim. Kim and Lhakpa know the region and people well. Not only do you get to experience the region, you also get to experience the culture. Kim’s crew always have smile on their faces and are willing to help in any way possible. Kim’s relationship with her crew and the lodge owners is amazing. The acclimation that you go through is well thought out and we had barely any issues compared to other groups that we saw along the way. I can’t wait to get back to Nepal and when I do I would definitely work with Kim!!!
– Bryan R (USA), Everest High Passes 2012

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Amazing experience! My husband and I trekked with Kim Bannister and Kamzang Journeys through the Arun Valley and the Everest region, and long to go back on a trek with her again. Kim and Lhakpa, and the rest of the Kamzang team ensured we enjoyed stunning scenery, great food, local experiences and stayed healthy in order to fully enjoy our experience in Nepal. We always felt in capable hands and appreciated Kim’s knowledge and respect of the people and the customs as well as her willingness to share this knowledge with us, enriching our experience.
– Reagan & Eric (Canada), Arun Valley & Gokyo Lakes Trek 2011

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To this day the Everest High Passes trek was the most amazing trip in my life. The Himalayas are such a spiritual and beautiful place, but I’m sure I would never have enjoyed it as much if I didn’t meet you. You are such an amazing person – I really miss you. Trying to hatch a plan to visit again!
– Elena S (UK), Everest High Passes Trek 2011

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Thank you so much for making our Himalayan experience so memorable. Your organisational skills in making even the weather cooperate, your capacity to multi-task and problem solve in turning potential crises into mere wrinkles, your love and respect for the high peaks – all come together in making this trek so wonderful. But even more importantly I was touched by how deeply you give of yourself. It showed in the great care you gave to us, in the warmth of your embrace as you met people along the way and most especially in how well you treat your staff. Yours is a difficult task but clearly for you it is not a job but a calling.
– Steve & Jo F (Canada), Everest High Passes Trek 2011

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My wife and I did the High Manaslu trek with Kim Bannister from Kamzang Journeys for our honeymoon, and it was outstanding. I had trekked in the Solo Khumbu region years before, and was looking for an experience more off the beaten path, and Manaslu was the perfect choice. Manaslu has everything from varied cultures, low lying lush valleys stepped with agriculture, ravines with raging rivers and suspension bridges, high alpine scenery, Tibetan cultures, high mountain passes, prayer walls, etc.

I liked your pictures because they reflect your love and enthusiasm for Nepal, the mountains, the trek itself and your care for us. You and your staff are exceptional people; I have never felt more cared for in my life! I can feel the love for what you do.
– Sir Thomas K (USA), Everest High Passes Trek 2010

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This is the trek of a lifetime, with time to acclimatize, time to marvel at where you are, time for every unforgettable optional side-trip, time to kick back and catch up with yourself, and time to enjoy the company of your like-minded trekkers, Lhakpa and their most proficient and professional crew and the inimitable Kim Bannister!
Don’t miss it!
– Anne & David (Australia), Everest High Passes Trek 2010

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I spend my weekend looking at your photos, looking at your website and plotting how to con my manager into giving me 2 month off next year to do a camping trek with you!
– Elena S (UK), Everest High Passes Trek 2010

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We began the planning process; Some of the things that became important to us were that the guide had some flexibility built into the schedule, that the company was more concerned with the experience but kept the goal in mind, and finally that they had some sensitivity to the local people. We had narrowed the search down to a few companies when my buddy saw a picture of one of the guides and boom; he decided we were going with them. Now to her credit, our guide Kim is a beautiful woman, but even more importantly the group she works with met all of our criteria and then some. Kim’s team takes great care of their clients and the locals they hire, they pay them well and treat them with respect. It was a pleasure trekking with them and I’ve recommended them to many friends.
– Michael K (USA), Everest High Passes Trek 2010

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Kim knows the Eeverest region and facilities better than most and probably has the best connection to the region of any company, and Kim’s lead guide Lhakpa grew up in one of the villages. Her medical equipment and trip equipment are exceptional. A MD on our trip was impressed with Kim’s medical bag, and Kim’s knowledge of occasionally needed medicines and medical issues. The acclimatization which Kim takes the group through is cautious, prudent and functionally sufficient. I had an opportunity to see other trekkers going it alone, with solo guides and in groups. Some people paid more, some paid less, our price was very good by comparison and I thought Kim’s provision of comfort, information, assistance, and guidance incomparable. I wouldn’t recommend anyone else. I hope to go again someday and would only want to go with Kim and her crew!
– Russ R (USA), Everest High Passes Trek 2009

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Now I know how fortunate I was to have found you; as Richard says – there are no coincidences. I was drawn to your group and that’s it. It worked because you were the force behind us. Tom was more right with his statement about you being pretty than he has ever realized – namely, not only the outside appearance but your inner self is just fantastic. I enjoyed every minute of your company and the trek. I never once had the feeling I had to compromise or give in to anybody’s interests. Everything happened naturally and I surely hope that others feel the same. We were a merry crowd as Jane Austen would say.

– Nives (Slovenia), Everest High Passes Trek 2009

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What an amazing trek it was! You can not go wrong by trekking with Kim and Lhakpa. Their professionalism, friendliness, efficiency, expertise and unflagging good cheer and able assistance can not be overstated. The meals were excellent, Junar is a very fine chef. 5-star, healthful dining for all three meals a day. Kim has such a thorough knowledge of their dress, customs and lifestyle. I loved that she would generously share these details with me as we walked. She is a wealth of knowledge and experience. She was also amazing at interacting with the people we would meet along the trail and get them to pose for her camera.

What photos we have to remind ourselves of the fun we had! Lhakpa is the epitome of the ideal Sherpa host. Nothing we Westerners could conjure up would budge his smiling, courteous, and unflappable countenance. Exhausted and struggling on the trail? Lhakpa will carry your pack. (Not to be left out, Kim was quick to relieve us of our packs on steeper sections of the trail – two of them plus hers on one memorable day.) We did not see a single western trekker until we reached the eastern border of the Khumbu.

Culturally speaking, all of our interactions with the people were positive and enjoyable. Our porters and kitchen staff were a continual delight to get to know and try to communicate with. They are all really nice, helpful, extremely hardworking (and damn strong!!) happy guys.

And Kim, words cannot describe her energy, always positive, unshakable, pleasant demeanor, and all-around world-class guide capabilities. There was never a twinge of worry that we weren’t in the most capable hands. You could go to the moon safely with her. I feel like they will be my friends for life. They really made the trek all the more memorable and extraordinary.
– Lindsay H (USA), Arun & Gokyo Trek 2009

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Kim you are one of the most unique people I have ever met. You live life to the fullest.

– Tom N (USA), Everest High Passes Trek 2009

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I can’t express enough my gratitude for our trip. It will never be forgotten.
– Mark, Everest High Passes Trek 2009

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Kim, I admire the intensity with which you embrace adventure …
– Mike S (USA), Everest High Passes 2009

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Kim is a pleasant and exceedingly competent trek leader. Lhakpa, the cooks, and the porters are special people and in my experience, a pleasure to travel with. They looked after us cheerfully and with care, but never intrusively. They are a warm and fun group, and pound for pound, physically the strongest people I’ve ever been around. The people we encountered were fascinating, and the beauty of the place is beyond my ability to describe, it’s photography heaven. The cultural differences between rural Nepal and my town are enormous, yet I felt welcome, secure, and at home the entire time we were trekking. The food was good and plentiful, the tents were sturdy and comfortable, the staff happy and helpful, we had very little sickness, the other trekkers in our group were friendly and intelligent, and believe me I slept like a log every night (except when I got up to view the night sky which is like nothing I’ve seen). Don’t miss the walking tours in KTM with Kim, and be sure to ask her to take you shopping…
 – Steve H (USA), Wild Everest | Arun Valley & Goky9 Trek 2008

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I have to thank you again! I enjoyed the trek much more than I could ever have expected. When I left home my main goal was basically just to see all those big mountains, and I didn’t think so much all the other things I was going to see in Nepal. So I was truly amazed at how great it was to meet local, ordinary people, especially kids, and I felt so privileged when you made it possible to visit many homes of local people.

The trek itself felt like being on a trek with a good friend who has excellent knowledge of local culture and people, and who knows very well the mountains as well. You did so well in all areas when compared to any other trekking guide (local or westerner), at least I felt very safe every time we were trekking, and nobody was as well taken care of as I was when we were staying in lodges. You had a nice attitude all the time and you even took it calmly when I was grumpy or irritable. Maybe the most important thing for me was that in some nice way you were so easy to be with, I mean that even sitting beside you and just reading without saying a word felt so natural. This doesn’t happen with everyone!
– Olli PL (Finland), Everest High Passes 2008

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Thanks a million times, once again, for the absolutely amazing trek – what a fine, life-changing, experience, thanks to you and your amazing crew.
– Lindsay H (USA), Wild Everest | Arun Valley & Gokyo Trek 2008

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I was on Kim’s High Passes trek in November as well as a trek in Ladakh summer ’06. Kim and her staff are professional and practice solid risk management, all with a personal touch. I never felt like I was on a commercial trek, yet trekking with friends.

Regarding High Passes specifically, the most important quality about the way Kim leads in that area is a profound attention to acclimatization. The itinerary is appropriately conservative to allow plenty of time for clients of all abilities to acclimatize. In addition, if specific clients acclimatize faster and perhaps have more capacity for activity, the itinerary offers optional side hikes from various lodges. In other words, if I was feeling less motivation or physically less than par, I could spend an afternoon reading in the lodge while others could do another hike in the area. Finally with regard to this issue, Kim is very flexible and provides very well for uncertainties. We had two people who struggled from the outset with the altitude. Rather than ending their trek and sending them back to the starting point, she discussed options with the clients and her sirdar (Nepali guide), and a new itinerary was created for the clients including a porter and guide. This allowed them to travel at a slower pace and still get to Everest Base Camp. They were not able to cross the passes, but we re-joined them at Namche Bazaar, and everyone felt they had reached their goals and were successful. This flexibility would not have happened with a different guide. As a matter of fact, we met clients from other trips who were on their way down after having felt sick and needing more time, and their group continued without them — no alternative itinerary, just “trip over.”

Kim treats her porters very well and considers them a vital part of our trip, caring for them with better wages, some outfitting, first aid, responsible loads, and an itinerary that also took their needs into account. The porters often joined us in the lodge, and we felt they were a part of our group as was appropriate.

… All of this goes without saying that the Everest region and the two high passes (Cho La and Renjo La) are utterly magnificent! We were indeed at the top of the world, and I felt like with this trek’s itinerary we really experienced the entire area.

– Ann McC (USA), Everest High Passes 2008

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I would happily repeat the Arun-Gokyo trek, or do any other trek, with Kim and her Kamzang Journeys crew. Kim is a pleasant and exceedingly competent trek leader; Lhakpa, the cooks, and the porters are special people and in my experience, a pleasure to travel with. They looked after us cheerfully and with care, but never intrusively. They are a warm and fun group, and pound for pound, physically the strongest people I’ve ever been around.

The people we encountered were fascinating, and the beauty of the place is beyond my ability to describe, it’s photography heaven. The cultural differences between rural Nepal and my town are enormous, yet I felt welcome, secure, and at home the entire time we were trekking.
– Steve & Karen (USA), Arun Valley & Gokyo 2008

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I thoroughly enjoyed being part of your Everest High Passes trek. Thank you very much for providing such good leadership, for your ever-cheerful companionship, for solving the various problems that arose and for ensuring that we all had a good time. We were an excellent group of really nice, diverse and interesting people whose friendship I enjoyed and value. Visiting the Everest region was a wonderful and awe-inspiring experience that I treasure.
– David K (USA), High Passes 2008

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I swear you are one of the most amazing people I’ve ever met. You simply never ceased to amaze me with your seemingly endless energy. On top of that you were always there to see how I was doing and never failing to have a solution to whatever was the problem of the day. Your professionalism, organization, and friendliness shined at every turn.
– Lowell (USA), Everest Gokyo & Kala Pattar Christmas 2005

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Your energetic leadership and guidance and positive outlook have made this trip truly memorable. Thanks for your kindness and inspirational support!
– Jim W (USA), Everest Gokyo & Kala Pattar Christmas 2005

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Kim Bannister Photo Gallery | Trip & Trek Photos
Kim Bannister Photography

Travel Reading | Enhance Your Trip!
Travel Books

Sherpa Books
Stories & Customs of the Sherpas | Frances Klatzel
Gaiety of Spirit | Frances Klatzel

‘Landscapes Revealed’ Everest Geology Blog Posts
How did the Himalayas get to be Earth’s highest mountain range? | Karen Grove

Trekking in the Khumbu region of the Nepal Himalayas, Part 1: from Kathmandu to Namche | Karen Grove

Trekking in the Khumbu region of the Nepal Himalayas, Part 2: All hail to Ama Dablam | Karen Grove

Trekking in the Khumbu region of the Nepal Himalayas, Part 3: to Everest Base Camp and Goyko | Karen Grove

Trekking in the Khumbu region of the Nepal Himalayas, Part 4: from Gokyo back to Lukla| Karen Grove

Online Articles & Documentaries on Everest Region
Glacier Works | David Breshear’s Interactive Site

Everest by Drone | National Geographic Adventure

Everest From Above | National Geographic

Battle of the Himalayas: The Fight to Film Everest | BBC Four Documentary

1953: First Footsteps – Sir Edmund Hillary & Tenzin Norgay | National Geographic

Sherpas | The True Heroes of Mount Everest | Film Adventure

Glory or Death | Climbing Mount Everest | True Sports (YouTube)

On Mount Everest, Sherpa Guides Bear the Brunt of the Danger | NPR

Lakes Expanding Dangerously in Everest Glacier | BBC

Rivers of Ice – Vanishing Glaciers | BBC

Everest | National Geographic Adventure

Climbing Everest Then & Now | National Geographic Adventure

Everest Revealed: Photos by Renan Ozturk | National Geographic Adventure

Flying a Drone at Everest | Himalayan Aerials

The Everest Avalanche 2014 | YouTube

Living Through the Himalayan Thaw | Himalayan Times

Nepal Quake Caused Minimal Damage to Everest Trails | Reuters

Nepal Before & After the Earthquake | New York Times

Jan Morris: No One Else Needs to Climb Everest | New Statesman

Airport Near Everest is its own Perilous Adventure | New York Times

Sherpa – They Die, We Go Home | New York Times

On Mount Everest – Surviving and Earthquake & an Avalanche | New York Times Lens Blog

Climate Model Suggests Glaciers Could Nearly Disappear | New York Times

Forty Years of Everest | YouTube

Nepal Drains Dangerous Everest Lake | BBC

The Epic of Everest | BBC Four

Sherpaland Gets a Makeover | Nepali Times

On Thin Ice in the Khumbu | Nepali Times

Taking the Pulse of Ngozumba | BBC 

Former Miss Nepal an Everest Helicopter Pilot | ABC News

Yaks in the Everest Region | YouTube (Kamzang Journeys)

Nepal’s Other Attraction – The Night Sky | Nepali Times

Everest High Passes Trek | Adam D Vimeo (Kamzang Journeys Trek)