Trekkers all over the world know that the world’s most awe inspiring and iconic mountain trail trek is that to Everest Base Camp.

Join us as we enjoy this 19 day trek, which takes us to the yards of world famous Sherpas, the culture of colorful prayer flags and Buddhism, the quaint Namche Bazzar, the Sagarmatha National Park, the mightiest view point – Kala Patthar, Everest Base Camp itself and close to four of the world’s six tallest peaks: Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho-Oyu. It is well accepted that the Everest Base Camp trek is the grandest walk in the land of the Himalayas.

Nowhere in the world is it more spectacular than in the Everest region. Trekking through the Everest region offers astounding mountain views, an opportunity to take a glimpse into the life of world famous climbers (the Sherpas), a chance to survey around a world heritage site (Sagarmatha National Park) that hosts a variety of Himalayan flora and fauna, an opportunity to explore the highest Buddhist monasteries in the world and of course the trip takes us to Everest Base Camp itself.

It’s an opportunity to trek where Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay set off on their epic journey in 1953. But best of all we get to see Everest while witnessing all its power and grace up close and personal.

The 19-day Everest Base camp itinerary is actually designed for novice trekkers who are in good health with normal physical fitness. Join your host, Jim Marsh, on the trail as we discover the many great sites of Nepal and the Himalayas.

Land only US$ 2,460 per person sharing

April 6, 2012 Fri Leave Toronto

April 7 Sat enroute

8 Sun Day 01 Arrive in Kathmandu (1300 m / 4264 feet)
After completing your custom formalities (Visa, etc) pick up your luggage and look for our representative from the trekking company with a Travelonly display board at the arrival gate. You will be then transferred to Hotel Shanker or a similar category hotel. After check in, you can either take a rest, hang around in the city, go shopping; it all depends upon your interests and condition. In the evening we will organize a “Welcome Dinner” at an excellent traditional Nepalese Restaurant where you will enjoy a Nepalese cultural program as well as a fine meal. Included meal: Dinner (D)

9 Mon Day 02 Kathmandu: Sightseeing and Trek Preparation
Today after breakfast we will start a guided tour to several of the most historical and spiritual attractions in Kathmandu. Some of these landmarks are considered World Heritage Sites; including the historic Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupati Nath, the famous ‘Monkey Temple’ (Swayambunath) and Buddhists shrine (Buddha Nath) which is one of the large Stupas in the world. In the afternoon, there will be a pre-trip discussion where we can meet our trek leader and other team members. Trekking company briefs us regarding our trek as well as provides us opportunity to ask any questions we may have regarding our upcoming adventure. Included meal: Breakfast (B)

Route to Everest Base Camp, click to open in a new window.

10 Tue Day 03 Kathmandu – Lukla – Phakding (2,652m/8,700ft):
3-4 hour trek (Trekking times only)
After breakfast, we get transferred to the domestic terminal of Kathmandu airport for an early morning flight to Lukla (2,800m/9,186ft), a gateway destination from where our trek starts. After an adventurous 40 minute flight above breathtaking green and white mountains, we reach the Hillary Airport at Lukla. This is one of the most beautiful air routes in the world culminating in a dramatic landing on a hillside surrounded by high mountains peaks. Here we meet our other crew members and after some packing and arrangements, we start our trek through the prosperous village of Lukla until we reach Phakding. To assist in acclimatization, we only have a short hike today. However, if interested in additional activities we can take a side trip to a nearby monastery. Overnight in Phakding. Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B,L,D)

April 11 Wed Day 04 Phakding – Namche Bazaar
(3440 m/11,280 ft): 5-6 hour trek
Walking through a beautiful pine forest, the track leads us along the Dudh Koshi River through many suspension bridges, one of which is the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge. First, we catch the wonderful sight of the glistening Mt. Thamserku (6618 m). Through the settlement of Benkar, Chumoa, Monjo, we come to the check post and entrance to Sagarmatha National Park. We pass through the last village of Jorsale before reaching Namche Bazaar. The trail climbs through the forests and bridges until we reach the confluence of the Dudh Koshi and Bhote Koshi rivers. After a final steep ascent of about two hours we get our first sight of Mt. Everest, peering over the Lhotse-Nuptse ridge. We stop at Chauatra to admire the view. We still need to walk about 1.5 hours to reach Namche Bazaar, the gateway to Mt. Everest and main trading centre of this region. We stay overnight in Namche Bazaar. (B,L,D)

12 Thu Day 05 Namche Bazaar: Rest day
This is the first of the two scheduled “acclimatization” days. Health experts always recommend us to stay active and moving during the rest days instead of being idle. We either spend the day taking a day hike to Thame or visiting Khunde or relaxing and exploring Namche Bazaar itself. Namche Bazzar is the main centre of the Everest (Khumbu) region and has government offices, ATMs, Internet cafes, shops, restaurants, and a bakery. If we trek a few hundred vertical feet during the day, it will help us to properly acclimatize. Our guides will take us to the Tourist Visitor Center near the headquarters of the Sagarmatha National Park where we can observe an assortment of things related to the first Everest ascenders, Sherpa culture and learn about the various plant and animal life of the Everest region. Overnight in Namche Bazaar. (B,L,D)

13 Fri Day 06 Namche Bazaar – Khumjung (3810 m/12500 ft): 4 hr
Today’s journey starts with a climb up to the famous airstrip at Syangboche. Just above the airstrip is the Everest View Hotel, a Japanese scheme to build a deluxe hotel with great views of the highest mountains on Earth. Trekking up for about 2 hours and then leveling off until we reach the village of Khumjung. The Khumjung valley surrounded by the snowy peaks of Kondge and Thamserku and the sacred peak Khumbila, hosts a well known monastery that houses a yeti scalp. We also visit Hillary School which is at the same site. Another set of busy and colorful monasteries, lined with prayer flags and prayer wheels, are braced along the slopes high above this traditional village. Overnight in Khumjung. (B,L,D)

14 Sat Day 07 Khumjung – Phorse (3800 m/12, 470 ft): 5-6 hr trek
The trail to Phorse Village is rather steep but boasts great views over to Phorse and to the spectacular river gorge below, including an inaccessible natural rock bridge. Starting on a level trail, we trek up through the stone steps and reach Mongla pass (3975 m) from where we glimpse Ama Dablam, Thamserku and Mt. Khumbila. Sherpas regard Mt. Khumbila as sacred mountain of the patron god of the Khumbu area. Descending to Dudhkosi Khola (3250 m), we cross a bridge and again trek up through the rhododendron forest, a host for Himalayan wild deer and musk deer. Finally, we arrive to the walled fields of Phorse. Phorse is just under the snow dusted peaks of Tawoche and Cholaste. From here it’s a short trek to Phorse village where we rest overnight. (B,L,D)

15 Sun Day 08 Phorse – Dingboche (4,360 m/14,300 ft): 6-7 hr trek
From Phorse Village we trek down the narrow trail through a Monastery. We continue our trek through lush alpine forests until we reach large village of Upper Pangboche, where we will get astonished by the dramatic views. We then continue through the villages of Shomare, Orsho, and Tsuro Wog. The trek goes further up through the Khumbu Khola Valley to the ridge top from where we witness spectacular views of the soaring mountains of Taboche, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Nuptse, Lhotse, Cholatse, etc. We even can observe the beautiful Imja Khola valley to the east. Thereafter, we see sprawling fields and the settlement of Dingboche overlooked with Chortens and prayer flags as we gently ascend down to the Dingboche village. Overnight in Dingboche. (B,L,D)

16 Mon Day 09 Dingboche (4,360 m/14,300 ft): Rest Day
We spend our second acclimatization day in Dingboche. The moment of having a relaxing breakfast admiring Ama Dablam( 6856m/ 22493 ft) looming to the south is really fantastic. To better appreciate Ama Dablam, Lhotse and the numerous other peaks visible from Dingboche, we climb the ridge on the north behind the village. This is an ideal acclimatizing excursion. From here we can see three of the world’s six highest peaks- Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Yu. To the west, loom the towering peaks of Cholatse (6440 m/21,126 ft) and Taboche (6542 m/ 21,463 ft). As we look to the northwest, we see an array of peaks rising at the head of the Khumbu Khola valley. The Lobuche west and Lobuche East peaks are most dominant along with Lhotse which stands over 8500 meters (8501m/27, 890 ft). From our vantage point high on the ridge we look down on the sweeping Imja Khola valley as well as the picturesque fields and pastures of Dingboche. Overnight in Dingboche. (B,L,D)

17 Tue Day 10 Dingboche – Duglha (4,600 m/15,090 ft): 3-4 hr trek
We start the day with a climb to Duglha through the Khumbu Khola valley. The trek along the arid terrace is awarding with awesome views of mountains on all sides. As we come to a yak herder’s place called Dusa, the valley begins to narrow and we continue through Phulung Karpo, of the camp sites during first successful Everest Expedition in 1953. Above Phulung Karpo is Chola Lake. As we continue our trek the majestic view of Mt. Pumori (7138 m/ 23418 ft) comes into view. As the trail descends and curves Mt. Pumori hides and we come across a roaring stream. After crossing a small bridge, we ascend to Dugla. We can see the tip of Nuptse from here as well as Cholatse, Thamserku, and several other magnificent peaks. Spending a night in Dugla is ideal for acclimatization purposes. Overnight in Dugla. (B,L,D)

18 Wed Day 11 Duglha – Lobuche (4940 m/16,207 ft): 2-4 hour trek
Beyond Duglha we trek up the steep terminal moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. We find our way through the boulder-strewn slope as we ascend Chupki Lhara, an eerie ridge top with dramatic mountains views. At the top of the ridge we will find an array of stones with prayer flags used as memorials to Scott Fischer (American mountaineer) and 10 times Everest submitter Babu Chiri Sherpa (mountain guide from Nepal) who perished on a mission to climb Everest. We also see the memorial to Blair Griffiths who perished during the 1983 Canadian expedition, the first Canadian expedition to climb Everest. As the trail drops to the Khumbu Glacier moraine, we find ourselves right “in front of” several great peaks – Khumbutse, Lingtren, Pumori and Mahalangur Himal. We are now in the vicinity of Everest but the great mountain still remains hidden. Nuptse towers to the right as the trail crosses the Khumbu Glacier. As we trek along a murmuring stream we don`t see the Khumbu glacier because of its lateral moraine wall and we now begin to feel a little out of breath due to high altitude. Optional hike on to the Italian Pyramid research station. Overnight in Lobuche. (B,L,D)

19 Thu Day 12 Lobuche – Gorak Shep (5170 m/16,961ft) – Everest Base Camp (5364 m/17,594 ft) – Gorak Shep : 7-8 hour trek
The trail to Gorak Shep goes ahead through the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. We pass though the pyramid sign post. Ahead on the trail we see the crest of north ridge of Everest along with Mt. Pumori, Mahalangur, Lingtern, Khumbutse, Nuptse, etc. A small ascent would take us to Thangma Riju from where we perceive 360 degree vista of snowy mountains. Climbing steeply up to the top through the torrent of Changri glacier, we catch our first glimpse of Kala Patthar, a grey-green knoll beneath the Mt. Pumori. As we reach Gorak Shep, we will be surrounded by snow-capped mountains looming all around us including the top of the world – Mount Everest. After a brief lunch and rest, we take the trail to Everest Base Camp through the once vast Gorak Shep Lake. Continuing straight ahead, we come through the Indian army mountaineers’ memorials. As we reach Everest Base Camp we cannot stop ourselves from appreciating the Everest climbers who take the hazardous route through the Khumbu icefall. Mountaineer’s tents stand out in bright colors against all the dull gray surroundings. Nuptse, Khumbuste, Pumori are the mountains we can view from base camp. Everest actually is not visible from here. We get back to Gorak Shep for a good night’s rest. However, the sunset view from Kala Patthar is more admirable than the sunrise view. As the setting sun’s rays strike the snow capped mountains the resulting scenery is indescribable. For those trekkers who wish to continue our guides and Sherpas coordinate a hike to Kala Patthar for amazing sunset view today rather than waiting until the next day. Overnight in Gorak Shep. (B,L,D)

20 Fri Day 13 Gorak Shep – Kala Patthar (5545 m/18,192 ft) – Pheriche (4280 m/14,070 ft): 7-8 hour trek
Today is the climax of our trip. We start early in the morning to catch the dramatic views from Kala Patthar witnessing the first light of day shining on Mount Everest. However, we need to get prepared for an early morning, dark and cold temperature (-10 to -14 C) departure beforehand. Plus there is always the potential for chilly winds which are quite common. Familiar peaks such as Lingtren, Khumbutse, Changtse tower to the east even as Everest begins to reveal itself emerging between the west shoulder crest and Nuptse. During the ascent to Kala Patthar we can pause to catch our breath at several outstanding view points to snap pictures. After several hours of an ascent, we reach Kala Patthar. From here we scramble to climb the rocky outcrop near to the summit marked by cairns and prayer flags. As we reach the top, we sit on the Kala Patthar rocks our eyes taking in the unbelievable Himalayan Panorama, wandering from one mighty massif to another. We take as many pictures as we can with our camera and take the in view with our mind’s eye to last lifetime. On being back to Gorak Shep, we have breakfast followed by a gradual descend down to Pheriche for a good night’s rest, following the same route back to the terminal moraines at Dughla. Overnight in Pheriche.(B,L,D)

21 Sat Day 14 Pheriche – Tengboche (3860 m/12,660 ft):
5-6 hour trek
After the previous day’s tiring ascent to Kala Patthar, today is an easier walk down to the lower altitudes following the wide valley of Khumbu Khola we pass through the beautiful Sherpa villages of Pheriche, Orsho, and Shomare. If we wish to visit the Gompa in Upper Pangboche we can do so by taking a different trail from Shomare. Otherwise we take the regular trial to reach Pangboche. From Pangboche we retrace our footsteps down to the Imja Khola and up through the forest to Debuche or if interested, we might visit nuns at the Debuche monastery. Finally, we reach Tengboche. If possible we visit inside Tengboche monastery to witness evening ceremonies. Overnight in Tengboche. (B,L,D)

22 Sun Day 15 Tengboche – Namche Bazaar: (3440 m/11,280 ft):
5-6 hour trek
We will trek down through the hillside blanketed by rhododendron and juniper trees. In Spring, pink and red rhododendron flowers ablaze our surroundings. After crossing the prayer flag festooned bridge over the Dudkoshi River, we reach Phunki Thenga. The trail then follows the Dud Koshi gorge descending rapidly through the pine forests. The path eventually reaches Sansa which is the major trail junction in the region. We stop at Kyangjuma (3570 m/11,710 ft) for a relaxed lunch. We unknowingly appreciate the gorgeous Ama Dablam, Thamserku and Nuptese with every bite. Following lunch, the trail to Namche Bazaar clings to the steep wooded slope beyond Kyangjuma, winding through several bends. We keep a lookout for wild life such as mountain goats, snow leopards, colorful pheasants, etc., while we pass through the forest by the trail. After passing a Chorten, we reach the army camp at Namche Bazaar. We want to take a long last look (and picture!) back to Lhotse, the tip of Everest and Tengboche from here. On reaching our lodge, we take a nice hot shower and have a very relaxed sleep in our room in Namche Bazaar. Overnight in Namche Bazaar. (B,L,D)

23 Mon Day 16 Namche Bazaar – Phakding (2,652m/8,700ft):
5-6 hour trek
The trail descends steeply downward so we need to walk slowly and under control as our shaky legs continuously battle the rocky terrain. After crossing the suspension bridges over the fast following Dud Koshi and its tributaries the trail becomes more level and natural. By today we start to get warmed up by the light breeze. Any remaining sore throats and colds will be gone by today as we pass through this charming mountain air. Although we are travelling the same route down, we see completely different views. We snap a mixture of open plains, rhododendron and pine forests, and in the distance snow covered peaks. Overnight in Phakding. (B,L,D)

24 Tue Day 17 Phakding – Lukla (2,800m/9,186ft): 3-4 hr trek
Several hours of trekking today finally leads us back to Lukla. We take time and walk leisurely today as this is the last day of our trek. We feel the Sherpa villages’ impressive faith in Buddhism and culture of prayer stones and prayers flag while we walk through the villages. On arrival in Lukla, we have plenty of time to relax, stretch those sore legs, and recall the experiences of the last couple of weeks. We experience the culmination of a fantastic trek on a happy note with everyone back safe and sound with smile on their faces! Overnight in Lukla. (B,L,D)

25 Wed Day 18 Lukla – Kathmandu
We fly back to Kathmandu after our long mountain journey. The early morning flight drops us at Kathmandu. We can rest and relax throughout the day in the hotel. If interested to take some gifts from Nepal for friends and relatives, you can visit to some nearby shops or venture out in Thamel for typical Nepalese goods which can be assisted by our guides or you can do it yourself too. If fascinated to explore some other areas of Kathmandu you can take time to do that today! Remember, we will be hosting a fantastic celebration dinner together for the successful completion of the Everest Base Camp Trek! Overnight in Kathmandu. (B,D)

26 Thu Day 19 Farewell Friend
We are saying good bye to the mountains as your journey in Nepal comes to an end today! There is nothing to do but trade emails with travel companions and organize the photos. If you have more time you can do some shopping or sightseeing or take an optional early morning Mountain Flight to view Everest from the air. Approximately 3 hours before the scheduled flight a representative from the trekking company will take you to the airport. On your way home you’ll have plenty of time to plan your next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal.(B)

April 27 Fri Arrive Toronto in the evening if this was your start location.

Important Note:
Your safety is of paramount concern whilst traveling with Travelonly. Please note that your leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Every effort will be made to keep to the above itinerary; however, as this is adventure travel in a remote mountain region, we cannot guarantee it! Weather conditions, health condition of a member, unexpected natural disasters, etc., can all contribute to changes in the itinerary. The leader will try to ensure that the trip runs according to plan, but please be prepared to be flexible if required.

Contact your local Travelonly Rep to book this trip:

Jim Marsh
905-439-5530
1-866-340-1050
jmarsh@travelonly.com
www.ohcanadatravel.com

Travelonly Head Office, 325 West St, Brantford ON, Canada N3R 3V6
(519) 752-4363 TICO 4316071

Pricing and Trip Inclusions

Land only US$ 2,460 per person sharing

Deposit for Booking: C$500 per person
Balance of Payment Due: Feb 1, 2012

Trip Cost Includes
• All airport/hotel transfers
•Three nights 4-star hotel in Kathmandu ( Hotel Shanker or similar standard) with breakfast
•Welcome and farewell dinner
•Teahouse/Lodge accommodation during trek
• A full day sightseeing tour in Kathmandu valley including tour guide and entrance fees
•Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu flight and airport departure taxes
•Services of a western host, Jim Marsh, who will be travelling with you from Toronto. This will be Jim’s second trip to Everest.
•An experienced English-speaking trek leader (trekking guide), assistant trek leader (4 trekkers: 1 assistant guide) and Sherpa porters to carry luggage (2 trekkers:1 porter) including their salary, insurance, equipment, flight, food and lodging
•Down jacket, four season sleeping bag, duffel bag, and trekking map.
•All necessary paper work and permits (National park permit, TIMS )
•A comprehensive medical kit
•All government and local taxes

Trip Cost Does Not Include
•International airfare to and from Kathmandu
(Approx C$1700 from Toronto as of Sept 2011)
•Excess baggage charges
•Nepal Visa fee (bring accurate USD cash and two passport photographs)
•Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu (and also in the case of earlier return from the mountain than the scheduled itinerary)
•Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
•Travel and rescue insurance, please call for a quote.
•Personal expenses (phone calls, internet, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower etc)
•Tips for guides and porters