 The
Everest
or Khumbu
region
is justifiably
the most
famous
of all
trekking
and mountain
regions.
Populated
by Sherpas,
the attractions
of this
area are
the majestic
mountains,
the high
mountain
villages,
the isolated
monasteries,
and the
local
peoples.
This area
includes
the highest
mountain
in the
world,
Everest
at 8,848 m,
and many
of the
world's
8,000 m
peaks
such as
Lhotse,
Cho Oyu,
and Makalu.
First
climbed
in 1953,
Everest
still
holds
a fascination
for many;
however
the Everest
region
boasts
many more
spectacular
and beautiful
mountains,
as well
as some
of the
most rewarding
trekking
anywhere
in the
world.
The Everest
Base
Camp
trek
is a
classic
trek
which
follows
in the
footsteps
of Hillary & Tenzing
and
ends
with
an ascent
of Kala
Pattar
for
superb
views
of Everest.
This trek starts with an exhilarating 45 minute mountain flight into the airstrip at Lukla. From here we trek slowly upwards to the Sherpa capital of Namche Bazaar, following the valley of the Dudh Kosi River. It is not long before we glimpse our first view of Everest as it peeks above the Lhotse-Nuptse ridge. At this point it is still many days walk away, but with careful acclimatization it is not long before we find ourselves high up in the heart of the Khumbu region.
We visit Tengboche monastery in route before continuing on to our goal, an ascent of Kala Pattar, a rocky outcrop to the west of Everest. This advantage point gives fantastic views of the Ice Fall and South Col as well as the immense south-west face of Everest which was first climbed in 1975 by Chris Bonington's team. This is truly a classic trek, which undoubtedly gives one of the best mountain views in the world. Accommodation and food is provided in the local lodges
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