Everest Base Camp Trek via Salleri (Without Lukla Flight)

After enjoying a morning breakfast at your hotel, meet your private guide and driver for a tour of the Kathmandu Valley (1400 m / 4593 ft). As a historic crossroads of ancient Asian trade routes and spiritual traditions, the valley houses seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Today’s guided tour visits four of the most iconic cultural and religious landmarks:

• Swayambhunath Stupa (The Monkey Temple): Perched atop a hill west of the city, this ancient complex offers panoramic views of the entire Kathmandu Valley. It features a museum, library, active Tibetan monastery, and a massive whitewashed stupa. Painted on all four sides are the all-seeing eyes of Buddha, with the nose rendered as the Devanagari character for the number one (१), symbolizing the unity of all life and the single path to enlightenment.

• Patan Durbar Square: Located in Lalitpur, this square showcases fine Newar architecture, stone carving, and metalwork. Stroll along red-brick paved courtyards to view multi-tiered pagodas, intricate stone temples, and the historic royal palace complex that once housed the Malla Kings.

• Pashupatinath Temple: Situated on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River, Pashupatinath is one of the most revered Hindu temple complexes dedicated to Lord Shiva in the world. The main golden-roofed pagoda, open exclusively to practicing Hindus, is surrounded by hundreds of smaller shrines, open-air cremation ghats, and visiting sadhus (holy men).

• Boudhanath Stupa: One of the largest spherical stupas in the world, Boudhanath serves as the center of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. Believed to enshrine the sacred relics of Kassapa Buddha, the monument features prayer wheels, colorful prayer flags, and local monasteries. Experience the tranquil atmosphere as pilgrims perform kora (ritual circumambulation) around the base while incense fills the air.

In the late afternoon, return to your hotel for a pre-trek briefing with your guide to review your gear and logistics for the journey starting tomorrow.

Max Altitude:

1400m

Duration:

5-6 hours

Accommodation:

3 star category hotel

Meals:

Breakfast

Depart early in the morning from Kathmandu in a private 4WD jeep to begin your overland journey to the Khumbu region. The route takes you along scenic winding highways, passing through Dhulikhel and following the Sun Koshi River valley toward Khurkot.

After crossing the river bridge, the road ascends through the terraced hillsides and traditional Rai and Chhetri settlements of Okhaldhunga. On clear days along this elevated drive, you will catch your first magnificent views of distant Himalayan peaks, including Mount Everest (8848.86 m / 29031 ft) and Numbur Himal (6958 m / 22828 ft).

Continuing upward into the Solukhumbu district, you arrive at Salleri (2390 m / 7841 ft), the administrative headquarters of Solukhumbu, and nearby Phaplu (2300 m / 7545 ft). Check into your local lodge, enjoy a warm meal, and rest up for tomorrow’s journey deeper into the lower Khumbu valley.

Max Altitude:

2300m

Duration:

8-9 hours

Accommodation:

Local Hotel or Tea House

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

After breakfast in Phaplu (2300 m / 7545 ft), board a local 4WD jeep for a 5-hour off-road drive toward Thamdanda (2780 m / 9120 ft), winding through mountain ridges, river valleys, and settlements like Ringmo and Kharikhola. Thamdanda serves as the current roadhead where vehicle transport ends and your official trekking journey begins.

Unload your gear, meet your porter team, and begin a steady 2-hour hike through dense alpine and bamboo forests. Ascending along the mountain flanks, you will reach the picturesque ridge village of Paiya (2730 m / 8956 ft), also known as Chutok. From here, enjoy peaceful surroundings, views of the Dudh Koshi valley, and glimpses of the hills surrounding Lukla in the distance. Overnight at a local teahouse in Paiya

Trek Distance:

15-16 km/ 9.3-9.9 m

Max Altitude:

2780 m

Duration:

7 hours

Accommodation:

Local hotel or Tea house

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Leaving Paiya in the morning, the trail descends through dense bamboo and rhododendron forests into the quiet hamlet of Surke (2290 m / 7513 ft). Continuing northward through terraced farmlands, you will reach Chaurikharka, a spread-out Sherpa settlement rich in local spiritual culture and traditional architecture.

The path then leads past Ghat and arrives at Cheplung, where this lower overland route merges with the main classical Everest Base Camp trail coming from Lukla Airport. From Cheplung onward, you will follow high above the Dudh Koshi River alongside a livelier trail filled with fellow international trekkers, local porters, and yak trains transporting goods up into the high Khumbu region. Cross your first suspension bridges and pass hand-carved mani stones before arriving at Phakding (2610 m / 8562 ft) for an overnight teahouse stay

Trek Distance:

12 km / 7.5 m

Max Altitude:

2610 m

Duration:

5-6 hours

Accommodation:

Local hotel or Tea House

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Setting out from Phakding (2610 m / 8562 ft), the trail weaves along the banks of the Dudh Koshi River, passing through pine forests, crossing suspension bridges, and traversing mountain hamlets like Toktok and Bengkar. Ascending a gentle ridge to bypass a steep river gorge, you arrive at Monjo (2835 m / 9301 ft), the official gateway and checkpoint for Sagarmatha National Park. The park’s protected pine, fir, and bamboo forests serve as a sanctuary for endangered Himalayan wildlife, including the Himalayan Tahr, Musk Deer, and the elusive Snow Leopard.

After permit registration, continue through Jorsalle and cross the iconic high-slung Hillary Suspension Bridge, hanging high above the confluence of the Dudh Koshi and Bhote Koshi rivers. From the bridge, begin a sustained, pine-forested climb toward the high Khumbu. On clear days, a mid-climb viewpoint offers your first distant glimpse of Mount Everest (8848.86 m / 29031 ft) peaking behind Lhotse.

By late afternoon, you arrive at Namche Bazaar (3440 m / 11286 ft), an amphitheater-shaped town serving as the historic Sherpa capital and primary commercial hub of the region. Filled with lively cafes, bakeries, trekking gear shops, and banks, Namche provides an ideal environment to rest and acclimatize before heading higher into the mountains.

Trek Distance:

11 km / 6.8 m

Max Altitude:

3440 m

Duration:

6 hours

Accommodation:

Tea House or Guest House

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Today is a crucial acclimatization day designed to help your body adjust to the thinning air following the “climb high, sleep low” altitude principle. Maintaining an active routine today is essential for safe progression to higher elevations.

In the morning, begin a steep climb out of Namche Bazaar toward Syangboche Airport (3700 m / 12139 ft), one of the highest airstrips in the world. Continue ascending through alpine pine forests to the iconic Hotel Everest View (3880 m / 12729 ft). From the terrace, enjoy a warm cup of tea while taking in 360-degree panoramic views of Mount Everest (8848.86 m / 29031 ft), Lhotse (8516 m / 27940 ft), Ama Dablam (6812 m / 22349 ft), and Taboche.

After enjoying the mountain vistas, descend into the twin Sherpa villages of Khunde and Khumjung (3790 m / 12434 ft). Here, you can visit the Hillary School, explore the historic Khumjung Monastery (home to a famous Yeti scalp relic), and witness traditional Sherpa mountain life. Return to Namche Bazaar in the afternoon for rest, last-minute gear purchases, and dinner.

Trek Distance:

5-6 km / 3.1-3.7 m

Max Altitude:

3700 m

Duration:

2-3 hours

Accommodation:

Tea house or guest house

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Leaving Namche Bazaar, the trail begins along a smooth, scenic contour high above the Dudh Koshi River valley toward Kyangjuma. This early section of the path is generally level and comfortable, offering uninterrupted, sweeping views of Mount Everest (8848.86 m / 29031 ft), Lhotse (8516 m / 27940 ft), Ama Dablam (6812 m / 22349 ft), Taboche, and Kangtega. Keep an eye out along the forested cliffs for native Himalayan wildlife, including the Himalayan Tahr, Musk Deer, and Nepal’s national bird, the Himalayan Monal (Danphe pheasant).

From Kyangjuma, the trail descends through pine and rhododendron forests down to the riverbed at Phunki Thenga, where you cross a suspension bridge over the Dudh Koshi River. After crossing, begin a sustained, steep climb through shaded forest trails up to the ridge-top village of Tengboche (3867 m / 12687 ft).

Tengboche is renowned for housing Tengboche Monastery (also known as Dawa Choling Gompa), the largest Buddhist monastery in the Khumbu region and its recognized spiritual heart. Set against a dramatic backdrop of Ama Dablam, the surrounding hillsides bloom with vibrant red and pink rhododendrons during the spring season. In the late afternoon, trekkers are welcome to enter the monastery courtyard and main hall to observe the monks during their evening prayer ceremony.

Trek Distance:

10 km / 6.2 m

Max Altitude:

3867 m

Duration:

5 hours

Accommodation:

Tea House or Home Stay

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

The morning begins with a gentle descent through rhododendron and birch forests to the peaceful settlement of Deboche. After crossing a suspension bridge over the rushing Imja Khola River, the trail ascends gradually toward Pangboche (3985 m / 13074 ft), home to one of the oldest monasteries in the Khumbu region.

Above Pangboche, you will notice a distinct transition in the terrain. As you cross the natural tree line, the lush alpine forests give way to dry, high-altitude landscapes with scrub vegetation, dwarf juniper, and stone-walled barley fields built to protect crops from harsh mountain winds.

Throughout the trek, the majestic spire of Ama Dablam (6812 m / 22349 ft) dominates the skyline directly to your right, offering dramatic new angles as you move higher. Passing through the lunch stop of Somare, you enter the wide Imja Valley, following the trail as it ascends steadily to the high Sherpa settlement of Dingboche (4410 m / 14468 ft). Known as the “Summer Settlement,” Dingboche sits nestled in a broad valley surrounded by towering peaks, including Lhotse and Island Peak.

Trek Distance:

10 km / 6.8 m

Max Altitude:

4410 m

Duration:

6-7 hours

Accommodation:

Tea House or Home Stay

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

After breakfast, set off from Dingboche with a steep climb up the hillside above the village to gain a high ridge. As you traverse along this elevated contour overlooking the Pheriche valley floor below, enjoy sweeping views of Taboche (6542 m / 21463 ft) and Cholatse (6440 m / 21129 ft), with the high ridge of Nangkartshang Peak towering nearby.

The trail continues along the wide valley toward Thokla (Dughla) (4620 m / 15157 ft), where you cross a wooden bridge over the glacial meltwaters flowing from the Khumbu Glacier. Stop here for a short break while taking in views of Mount Pumori (7161 m / 23494 ft) rising at the head of the valley.

From Thokla, begin a challenging, steep ascent up the terminal moraine of the Khumbu Glacier to Chukpi Lhara atop Thokla Pass (4830 m / 15846 ft). Here stands a solemn memorial ground filled with stone chortens and draped with prayer flags, built in honor of the climbers and Sherpas who lost their lives on Everest expedition attempts.

After pausing at the memorial, the path levels out slightly as you trail alongside the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier, arriving at the high settlement of Lobuche (4910 m / 16108 ft) for an early dinner and rest before tomorrow’s trek to Everest Base Camp.

Trek Distance:

12 km / 7.5 m

Max Altitude:

4910 m

Duration:

5-6 hours

Accommodation:

Tea House or Homestay

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Today marks the pinnacle of your trek as you reach Everest Base Camp. Leaving Lobuche early in the morning, the trail traverses the glacial moraine along the edge of the sprawling Khumbu Glacier. Navigating boulder-strewn pathways, short steep ascents, and unstable lateral moraine ridge tracks, you arrive at the high, historic outpost of Gorak Shep (5140 m / 16863 ft)—the final teahouse settlement on the route.

After dropping your heavy main packs at the teahouse, enjoying a hot lunch, and gathering hydration gear, set out on the 4 to 5 hour round-trip hike toward Everest Base Camp (5364 m / 17598 ft). The path weaves along the spine of the Khumbu Glacier moraine with views of Mount Pumori (7161 m / 23494 ft), Nuptse (7861 m / 25791 ft), Lingtren, and Khumbutse.

Reaching Base Camp, you stand at the foot of the world’s highest peak (8848.86 m / 29031 ft) right alongside the dramatic, jagged seracs of the famous Khumbu Icefall. Take time to celebrate, take photographs at the iconic prayer-flag draped rock marker, and soak in the high-altitude surroundings. Afterward, retrace your steps across the moraine back to Gorak Shep for a hot dinner and a well-earned night’s rest.

Trek Distance:

11.5 km / 7.1 m

Max Altitude:

5364 m

Duration:

5-6 hours

Accommodation:

Tea House or Home Stay

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Hot Soup

Before dawn, set out on one of the most physically demanding yet deeply rewarding climbs of the trek—the steep ascent up Kala Patthar (5545 m / 18192 ft). While the cold temperatures and thin air make for a tough push, reaching this iconic black-rock peak rewards you with the ultimate panoramic view of Mount Everest (8848.86 m / 29031 ft) standing front and center, flanked by Himalayan giants including Nuptse (7861 m / 25791 ft), Pumori (7161 m / 23494 ft), Changtse, and Lhotse (8516 m / 27940 ft).

As you scramble up to the prayer-flag-draped rocky summit, watch the golden morning sunlight hit the summit of Everest—a direct view that is actually hidden from Base Camp itself. After taking photos and soaking in the 360-degree Himalayan vistas, descend back to Gorak Shep (5140 m / 16863 ft) for a warm breakfast.

After breakfast, pack your gear and begin the long, gradual descent. Retrace your steps back past Lobuche, down the Thokla Pass moraine, and cross the glacial stream. Leaving the high ridge, branch off into the wide, windy valley to reach the lower, oxygen-rich village of Pheriche (4260 m / 13976 ft) for an overnight teahouse stay and well-earned recovery.

Trek Distance:

15.5 km / 9.6 m

Max Altitude:

4260 m

Duration:

7-8 hours

Accommodation:

Tea House or Home Stay

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Soup

Begin the long descent back down the valley from Pheriche (4260 m / 13976 ft), trailing past Somare and descending to Pangboche (3985 m / 13074 ft). Re-entering the natural tree line, cross the suspension bridge over the Imja Khola River and make a short ascent through rhododendron, birch, and pine forests back to the ridge-top village of Tengboche (3867 m / 12687 ft). Pause at the monastery courtyard for a final up-close view of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Everest before beginning the descent.

From Tengboche, follow the trail as it drops steeply through shaded forests down to the Dudh Koshi river bed at Phunki Thenga. After crossing the river bridge, make a steady, contouring climb back along the mountainside past Kyangjuma and Sanasa.

Rounding the high cliffside trail, enjoy expansive views of the river gorge below and distant Himalayan peaks behind you. By afternoon, re-enter the bustling Sherpa capital of Namche Bazaar (3440 m / 11286 ft). The lower, oxygen-rich elevation provides a welcome boost in comfort, offering an ideal opportunity to celebrate your successful trek to Base Camp in local bakeries, cafes, or shops.

Trek Distance:

14.5 km / 9.0 m

Max Altitude:

3440 m

Duration:

6-7 hours

Accommodation:

Tea House or Guest House

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

After breakfast in Namche Bazaar (3440 m / 11286 ft), begin your long descent through pine forests back down toward the Dudh Koshi River valley. Cross the high Hillary Suspension Bridge and follow the river trail through Jorsalle to reach Monjo (2835 m / 9301 ft), where you complete exit formalities at the Sagarmatha National Park checkpost.

Continue retracing your steps along the riverbank past traditional Sherpa settlements, passing Phakding and Ghat while enjoying views of green valleys and terraced hillsides. Upon reaching Cheplung, branch off from the main trail used by Lukla-bound trekkers and take the quieter lower path toward Chaurikharka.

A final gradual walk brings you to the peaceful village of Surke (2290 m / 7513 ft), nestled in a lush valley below Lukla ridge. Enjoy a quiet evening relaxing at a local teahouse in the heart of the lower Solukhumbu region.

Trek Distance:

16 km / 9.9 m

Max Altitude:

2290 m

Duration:

6-7 hours

Accommodation:

Tea House or Guest House

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

After breakfast in Surke (2290 m / 7513 ft), begin the final walking leg of your journey, ascending roughly 4 hours back through lush forests and quiet hillside hamlets toward Thamdanda (2780 m / 9120 ft). Reaching Thamdanda marks the official completion of your foot trekking in the Solukhumbu region.

At Thamdanda, board a local 4WD jeep for a 5-hour drive winding back down through mountain roads toward Phaplu and Salleri (2300 m / 7545 ft). Upon arrival in Phaplu, check into a comfortable teahouse or lodge to unwind, enjoy a hot meal, and celebrate the completion of your mountain trek with your local guide and crew.

Trek Distance:

6.5 km / 4.0 m

Max Altitude:

2780 m

Duration:

7-9 hours

Accommodation:

Guest House or Local hotel

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

After an early breakfast in Phaplu / Salleri (2300 m / 7545 ft), board your private vehicle (jeep or bus) to begin the return drive to Kathmandu (1350 m / 4429 ft). Retracing the picturesque route taken on Day 3, the highway winds down through the terraced hillsides of Okhaldhunga, crosses the Sun Koshi River bridge at Khurkot, and follows the scenic Mid-Hill Highway toward the Kathmandu Valley via Dhulikhel.

Enjoy views of rural countryside life, terraced farms, and river valleys along the way. Upon arrival in Kathmandu by late afternoon or early evening, transfer directly to your hotel. After checking in, take a hot shower, relax, and enjoy your final evening in Nepal at your leisure—whether shopping for souvenirs in Thamel or enjoying a celebratory farewell dinner.

Max Altitude:

1350 m

Duration:

8-9 hours

Accommodation:

3 star category hotel in Kathmandu

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Enjoy your final breakfast in Kathmandu (1350 m / 4429 ft). Depending on your international flight schedule, you may have free time for last-minute souvenir shopping or relaxing around your hotel.

Before check-out, the hotel and trekking agency staff will traditionally bid you farewell, presenting you with a ceremonial silk scarf (Khada) and warm wishes for your journey home. A private vehicle will escort you to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) approximately three hours prior to your scheduled departure time, bringing your Everest Base Camp overland adventure to a memorable close

Max Altitude:

1350m

Duration:

30 minutes

Accommodation:

-

Meals:

Breakfast