Nepal is THE well-known Himalayan destination and deservedly so. As the landing in Kathmandu demonstrates, it is a truly awe-inspiring country. The treks are along well-worn paths but there are still new trails being discovered. The two most popular trails are in the Everest region and the Annapurnas. Accommodation can be in tents or using the local tea houses. For the adventurous, there is white-water rafting and for the animal enthusiasts, Royal Chitwan Park is the perfect place to track tigers from the back of an elephant.

The following itinerary is the Classic Everest Base Camp Trek. Mt. Everest, the highest peak of the world at 8848 metres, is one of the
greatest trekking destinations on the planet. Locally known as Sagarmatha in Nepal, the mountain has long been revered as the home of the Gods. First conquered by Tenzing Norgay and Edmund Hillary in 1953, Everest has traditionally been the ultimate goal for mountaineers from all over the world. Today trekkers seek the challenge of reaching the mountaineer's base camp, an incredible achievement in itself. Amidst spectacular mountain scenery explore the diversity of Himalayan traditions and religion and gain an insight into the world famous Sherpa culture. Crossing glaciers and broad plains, traversing valleys and climbing high passes, ascend to the picturesque Everest Base Camp.

Day 1- Arrive in Kathmandu. This colourful capital of Nepal is a fascinating blend of traditional architecture and symbols of the 20th Century. Its rich artistic and cultural heritage is evident where ornately carved balconies mingle with beautiful shrines and temples. If you arrive early, check out Durbar Square, home to the palace of the Kumari Devi, considered to be a living goddess. It is also worth the climb to visit the Swayambhunath, the Monkey Temple with its famous eyes of Buddha. Explore the network of street markets and alley bazaars and witness the burning ghats at Pashupatinath.

Days 2- Fly to Lukla then warm up with a three hour trek to Phakding.
Day 3- Continue to Namche Bazaar (3440m) which is the administrative centre of Khumbu region. The last part is the steepest but this is where the first views of Everest take place.
Day 4- Acclimatization day at Namche Bazaar. Visit to the museum and surrounding villages. Namche has some wonderful bakeries as well as a weekend market so there is plenty to do. In fact this is the last stop to buy any last minute supplies.
Day 5- Today you make your way to Tengpoche (3870m). There are wonderful views of Amadablam which is one of the most photographic mountains in the world. On arrival, visit the Tengpoche Monastery and the Sherpa Heritage Foundation.
Day 6- Trek To Dingboche (4410m). Another day of spectacular scenery and by now you are getting into your own rhythmn.
Day 7- Another acclimatization day at Dingboche. There is a good day hike to Amadablam base camp, offering great views of Amadablam mountain, lakes, and glacier. Have those cameras at the ready.
Day 8- Making your way ever closer to your goal, spend the night in Lobuche (4900m).
Day 9- An early start to hopefully avoid the clouds as you trek to Kalapathar (5545m). Here is where the best views of the Everest, Lohtse, Nuptse and other surrounding peaks of this awe-inspiring region can be found. Continue to Everest Base Camp (5300m) and finally finish this amazing day at Gorakshep (5140m).
Day 10- Trek to Pheriche or Dingboche depending on how you are feeling.
Day 11- Trek to Khumjung (3780m) and visit the local hospital.
Day 12- Trek back to the bright lights of Namche Bazaar.
Day 13- Descend from Namche and meander along the Dudh Koshi trail to reach Lukla. One more night then fly back to Kathmandu and connect for your on-ward journey.

From Nepal, you may wish to visit Tibet and other parts of China or perhaps head south for some relaxation on one of India's beaches.

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