In pursuit of Everest Base Camp, our second day takes us on a scenic southeast drive for about five hours, ending in the charming, farm- and mountain-fringed town of Ramechhap. This idyllic haven serves as a springboard for tomorrow's short, 15-minute flight from Ramechhap Airport (officially Mathali Airport) to Lukla, where our epic EBC trek kicks off.

Get ready for an exhilarating start to your trek! This morning, we'll take a short, scenic plane ride to Lukla, a mountainside town nestled amidst the Himalayas at 2,860 meters. From there, we'll waste no time in lacing up our boots and embarking on our first trek, following a trail that winds across gushing rivers, past charming Sherpa villages, and through thick forests teeming with life. By day's end, we'll reach the quaint village of Phakding (2,610 meters), where we'll rest and prepare for the challenges and wonders that lie ahead. 

Buckle up for a significant elevation gain on today's trek, as we ascend the Dudh Kosi River Valley towards Namche Bazaar (3,440m). This bustling town, the Khumbu region's crown jewel and a prime trading hub, sits perched atop a mountain, commanding majestic views of the two rivers merging at its feet. And prepare to be awestruck, for here, you'll snag your first glimpse of the legendary Mount Everest, piercing the heavens in the distance. 

Today, we prioritize acclimatization, allowing our bodies to adjust to lofty heights. Namche Bazaar, nestled like a gem amongst the peaks, becomes our playground. Immerse yourself in the rich Sherpa culture at the Sherpa Museum, which houses fascinating artifacts and exhibits that illuminate the region's heritage. 

Step into a mystical realm of soaring peaks and ancient traditions as we ascend further into the Khumbu Valley today. Our path, a ribbon winding through verdant forests, takes us past quaint villages, their stone houses basking in the Himalayan sun. Cross thrilling suspension bridges, their slender forms dwarfed by the giants of ice that pierce the azure sky.

And finally, nestled amidst this breathtaking tapestry, we arrive at Tengboche (3,867m), a haven of serenity and the crown jewel of the region. Here, the largest Buddhist monastery in all of Khumbu welcomes us with its fluttering prayer flags and chanting monks, offering a glimpse into the rich spiritual tapestry woven into the very fabric of these mountains.

Today, the landscape changes dramatically as we trek through mossy forests, cross the Imja River, and pass more intricate Buddhist Mani stones. We climb upwards to Dingboche, where you will feel so close to the Himalayas with Ama Dablam looking down upon you. This is around the time in our journey where you might begin to feel the effects of the altitude, but that's normal. Our guides will be looking out for you and making sure that you are staying hydrated.

Today is your acclimatization day in Dingboche. You have the opportunity to climb Nangkartshang Peak (16,730 ft/5,100 m) and enjoy breathtaking views of Makalu, Lhotse, Chalotse, Tawoche, and Ama Dablam. If you are acclimatizing well to the altitude, you can attempt the tough and steep climb to the top, which takes around 3 hours and 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can climb halfway up if you are feeling less energetic. Despite the challenging climb, the incredible views make it all worthwhile. After your descent, you will return to Dingboche for a late lunch and have the rest of the afternoon to relax and acclimatize.

The trail climbs steeply out of Dingboche, past a chorten, and ascends the valley gradually to Thukla at the end of the terminal moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. We stop here for a tea break and snack before the steep climb to Thukla Pass, a beautiful and poignant place with a line of memorials to climbers who have died on Everest. From Thukla Pass, we can enjoy a beautiful panorama of the peaks on the Nepal-Tibet border. The trail then eases off as we follow the valley to Lobuje, a tiny hamlet with a few teahouses. In the late afternoon, there is the option to walk up onto the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. The sunset on Nuptse is not to be missed.

Brace yourself, for today's Everest Base Camo and Gokyo Lake packs a punch! We'll leave Labuche behind and embark on a scenic journey that culminates in two major highlights: reaching Gorakshep, the final village before Everest Base Camp, and gearing up for the challenging yet rewarding climb to Kalapatthar. As you ascend, feel the exhilaration of pushing your limits and the anticipation of the epic reward that awaits. And then, just as you reach the summit, the magic happens. The golden rays of sunset bathe the Himalayas in a warm, ethereal glow, painting the peaks in a mesmerizing dance of light and shadow.

Today we hike to Everest Base Camp! It's hard to reach the site, which at the base of Everest sits 5,364 m above sea level. For most of the year, the camp is empty, marked only by wind-battered prayer flags. But in May it's a hive of mountaineering activity! After celebrating the win, we trek down to Labuche (5,164 m) for the night.

Prepare for a day of contrasting beauty and anticipation today, trekkers! Our path leads us to the charming village of Dzongla (4,830 m), nestled at the foot of the majestic Tabuche Mountain. And as you reach Dzongla, settle in for a peaceful evening, fueled by the excitement for tomorrow's adventure: the exhilarating climb over Cho La Pass. But for now, savor the serenity of this remote village, surrounded by the towering giants of the Himalayas. Remember, the journey itself is a treasure, so embrace every step of the way!

Today's your Cho La Pass conquest day! Get fueled with a hot breakfast at 4:30 am, then it's time to hit the trail.

The first two hours are like a gentle stroll compared to what's coming—you'll be trekking along a flat path until you reach Phedi. Then, hold onto your hats! The next hour is a rocky climb, testing your legs and your spirit. But don't give up, trekkers, because, after another hour on the Chola Glacier, you'll finally reach the top of the magnificent Cho La Pass 5,420m.!

Celebrate your victory with photos, cheers with your team, and a whole hour to soak in the jaw-dropping panoramic views. Enjoy a picnic lunch under the open sky, feeling on top of the world (literally!).

Then, it's a gentle 40-minute climb followed by a 2.5-hour descent to Thangnak village, where you'll rest your weary legs and dream about tomorrow's adventures.

Today's journey takes us through a landscape dominated by the mighty Ngozumpa Glacier, considered one of the longest in the world and snaking down from the majestic Cho Oyu, a peak that straddles the border between Nepal and Tibet.

Prepare for a 3-4 hour trek from Thangnak to Gokyo, a picturesque village nestled amidst crystal-clear turquoise lakes. The path itself is relatively short, allowing you to savor the mesmerizing sight of the Ngozumpa Glacier cascading down the mountainsides. Imagine the immense power of nature that sculpted this icy giant over millennia.

Upon arrival in Gokyo, refuel with a delicious lunch and then get ready to be spellbound by the surrounding splendor. Explore the tranquil lakes, their mirror-like surfaces reflecting the snow-capped peaks that encircle the valley. Gokyo offers comfortable accommodations, promising a restful night lulled by the whispers of the wind and the distant rumble of avalanches.

Fuel up with a steaming hot breakfast at sunrise, and take in the crisp mountain air as you prepare for the climb. The ascent takes roughly 3 hours, weaving through stunning landscapes and testing your limits with each exhilarating step. But every drop of sweat and every ache will be worth it when you reach the summit.

Gokyo Ri rewards you with a panorama that will leave you speechless. Imagine towering giants like Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and more, piercing the azure sky, their snow-capped summits glistening in the sunlight.

Savor this moment, trekkers, let the panorama etch itself into your memory forever. Capture the magic with photos, breathe in the pure mountain air, and feel a sense of accomplishment wash over you.

After basking in the glory of Gokyo Ri, descend back to Gokyo, your legs humming with the satisfaction of the climb. Enjoy a satisfying lunch and check out of your accommodations before setting off for the charming village of Dole.

Today's journey brings us back to Namche Bazaar, but it's not just retracing our steps. First, we'll enjoy a gentle downhill walk for about 2 hours to Phrtse Thanga. Then, we'll tackle the climb to Mongla DADA (around 2 hours uphill), followed by a shorter ascent to Kyangjuma. With a bit of luck, we'll reach Kyangjuma in time for a delicious lunch. Finally, a peaceful 2-hour flat walk through stunning scenery takes us back to Namche Bazaar, where we can relax and reminisce about our adventures.

Hooray! Today's your final walk after 13 amazing days on the trail! You might feel like a yak – strong and iron-willed – but even yaks need rest. So, celebrate your accomplishment with a steaming cup of Lukla's best coffee, savoring the sweet victory of reaching this point.

Tonight, the whole crew comes together for a traditional trek celebration. Trekkers, guides, and porters gather under the stars, sharing food, laughter, and maybe even a cold beer or two. It's a heartwarming evening to toast to the journey, the friendships forged, and the incredible experiences shared.

In the mountains, gratitude is a treasured tradition. Take this chance to thank your guide and porters for their vital role in your adventure. Their dedication and support helped make this journey special, and a heartfelt message or small token of appreciation will go a long way.

We fly back to Kathmandu and transfer to our hotel. During the spring and April - 10 May 2023 the return from Lukla, will fly back to Manthali on one of the first flights of the day (approximately 7-7:30 am) to allow for the 4-5 hour transfer back to Kathmandu arriving in the city for mid-late afternoon. 

Today marks your final day with Community Trek, and we hope your time in Nepal has been filled with incredible memories. After a delicious breakfast, you'll be free from our program to explore independently, pursue any remaining interests, or simply relax and reflect on your unforgettable journey.