Our own team on the ground. Dutch certified. The best of both worlds.
Deliberately small groups. And personal attention before, during and after your trip.
By hiring local guides and porters, you help them earn a good income. Close to home, not overseas.
In a nutshell
The Kangchenjunga Circuit brings us to one of the least visited corners of Nepal. In the far east, where the trails are quiet, the villages are small and the mountains are enormous. Over 24 days, we complete a full loop around Kangchenjunga, the world’s 3rd highest mountain at 8,586 m / 28,169 ft, visiting both its northern and southern base camps.
This great trekking journey starts with a flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur and a drive to the trailhead. From there, the route follows the Tamor river valley upstream through dense forest and traditional Limbu and Tibetan villages, climbing gradually into high alpine terrain. The landscape shifts completely as we gain altitude, from subtropical forest to glacial moraines and frozen lakes.
The first major highlight is Kangchenjunga North Base Camp at 5,475 m / 17,963 ft, reached after crossing through the remote Ghunsa valley. Then we cross the high Sele La Pass to reach the southern side of the mountain, where the Oktang viewpoint offers a face-to-face encounter with the south face of Kangchenjunga.
Two high passes, two base camps and an entire circuit of the world’s third highest mountain. This is as remote and as rewarding as trekking in Nepal gets.
Note: This is a suggested itinerary. Your trip is custom-made to fit your wishes and experience. Tell us what your preferences are. We’ll draft a personalised day-to-day program.
Spring (February through May) and autumn (September through November) are the best seasons for this trek. The weather is stable, the skies are clear and the chance of snow on the passes is at its lowest.
Autumn is slightly busier. Spring is a little quieter, with rhododendron forests in full bloom along the route.
No. The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is one of the most demanding treks in Nepal. You need prior experience trekking at altitude, a strong fitness level and the ability to walk 6 to 8 hours a day over multiple consecutive days. If you have done a long-distance trek at altitude before, this is a suitable next step.
This is a suggested itinerary. A plan that shows what a trek like this can look like. Not how it has to go.
Want to add an extra acclimatisation day, start from a different point? Or make this a complete Nepal trip, including time elsewhere in Nepal? Get in touch and we will build a trip that fits your pace and preferences.
Get in touch and we’ll create a trip that fits you.
The Kangchenjunga Conservation Area is one of Nepal’s most biodiverse regions. Red pandas, snow leopards, Himalayan black bears and musk deer all live here. The area is also home to rare bird species including the Impeyan pheasant. Seeing them is never guaranteed, but the chances here are higher than on most other routes.
Yes. The Kangchenjunga Conservation Area requires a restricted area permit in addition to the standard trekking permits. Both are included in the price of the trip. We take care of all the paperwork.
What’s included
The price of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a twin or double room.
Are you travelling solo or with a larger group? We are happy to make you a custom price proposal. Just send us a message and we’ll get back to you with the options.
Included in this trip
- Pre-trip meeting and briefing in Kathmandu
- All required trekking permits
- Licensed, English speaking trekking guide (salary, transport, accommodation, meals, gear and insurance)
- Private airport transfer from Thamel to the domestic airport and back
- Domestic flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur and back
- Private transfer from Bhadrapur to the trailhead and back
- All teahouse accommodation during your trek
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner during your trek
- 24/7 support from the By Mountain People team throughout your trip
- Booking secured through the Calamity Fund
- Booking secured through VZR Garant
- VAT and tourist service charge
Not included
- Porter (on request)
- Any hot and cold drinks
- Insurance covering rescue and evacuation
- Tips
- All other expenses not listed under 'Included'
Day-to-day program
This is an example itinerary. It shows you how the Kanchenjunga CIrcuit Trek this is typically structured, day by day. Because we tailor every journey to your wishes and experience, the exact program may vary.
Note: walking times are indicative and depend on your pace.
The moment you have been looking forward to: today you meet your Kanchenjunga mountain guide. 🙏🏽
After breakfast, you go through the itinerary together and check your gear. Missing something? Your guide knows exactly where to go. The outdoor shops in Thamel stock everything you could possibly need, from warm layers to trekking poles, and your guide is happy to help you find the right thing.
By afternoon, everything is sorted and the excitement is real. Tomorrow, the trek begins!
We take an early flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur in the far east of Nepal. From there, we drive to Ilam, a hill town known for its tea gardens, with the first views of the Kangchenjunga range appearing on the horizon. Tonight we sleep in a hotel.
We drive to Taplejung, the gateway to the Kangchenjunga region, then begin the trek. The trail drops through terraced fields and forest to Mitlung, a small village on the banks of the Tamor river. The trek has begun.
We follow the Tamor river upstream through subtropical forest and small settlements. The valley is lush and warm. Few trekkers come this way. The trail is quiet and the villages are genuinely off the tourist circuit.
The trail continues along the river, climbing gradually. The vegetation shifts as we gain altitude. Stone bridges, waterfalls and the occasional glimpse of snow peaks ahead.
We leave the river valley and begin climbing in earnest. The forest thickens; rhododendron, oak and bamboo. And the air cools. The Kangchenjunga massif starts to reveal itself above the treeline.
A steady climb through forest and alpine meadows. Gyabla is a small Tibetan-influenced settlement, with prayer flags, mani walls and yaks on the hillside. The high mountains are close now.
We arrive in Ghunsa, the main village on the northern route — a traditional Tibetan community at the foot of the Kangchenjunga massif. Stone houses, a monastery and extraordinary mountain views. We spend two nights here.
A rest day in Ghunsa. Walk high, sleep low. An optional hike above the village gives the first clear views of Jannu. one of the most dramatic peaks in the entire Himalayan range, and the glaciers above Ghunsa. It’s time to acclimatise, explore and prepare for the days ahead.
We leave Ghunsa and climb into the high valley. The landscape becomes wilder, with fewer trees, more rock and ice. Khambachen is a small settlement with big views, the last real stopping point before the North Base Camp push.
This is a high and exposed day above the glacier. The terrain is raw and spectacular. Moraines, frozen streams and the north face of Kangchenjunga filling the horizon. Lhonak is a basic camp at the edge of the glacier.
The biggest day on the northern side. We set off early and climb to North Base Camp at 5,475 m / 17,963 ft — a vast glacial bowl beneath the north face of the world’s third highest mountain. The scale is almost impossible to comprehend. We return to Lhonak in the afternoon.
Congrats on reaching North Base Camp! That was a serious day at serious altitude. 💪😁
We retrace our steps down the valley to Ghunsa. The descent feels fast. The mountain stays with us the whole way.
We leave the northern valley and begin the approach to the high pass that connects the two sides of the circuit. The trail climbs through increasingly remote terrain to the base camp below Sele La.
The high pass crossing. We climb to Sele La and cross from the northern to the southern side of the Kangchenjunga circuit. A long, demanding day with extraordinary views from the pass. The descent to Tseram is steep and rewarding.
We climb towards the southern side of Kangchenjunga. Ramche is the last camp before the Oktang viewpoint — small, exposed and completely surrounded by mountains.
The highlight of the southern side. We hike to Oktang — the viewpoint directly below the south face of Kangchenjunga. The mountain fills the entire sky. Then we descend all the way back to Tseram. A long day, but one of the most memorable of the entire circuit.
Congrats! We have now seen Kangchenjunga from both sides. Not many people can say that. 😎
The descent begins in earnest. The forest returns. With rhododendron and bamboo, warmer air and the sounds of birds. Tortong is a small lodge in the forest, a world away from the glacial terrain of the past few days.
We continue descending through forest and terraced fields. Yamphudin is a larger village with a more settled feel. This is the end of the high mountain section of the trek.
The trail winds through the lower hills of the far eastern Terai foothills. The landscape is greener and warmer. Villages become more frequent.
The final walking day. We complete the descent to Khandenba, where the road begins. The trek is done.
Congrats! We have completed the full Kangchenjunga Circuit. One of the most remote and rewarding treks in all of Nepal. Well done. 🙌
We board our vehicle and drive through the green hills of eastern Nepal to Bhadrapur. The mountains slowly disappear behind us.
An early morning flight back to Kathmandu. Back in the city: a hot shower, a soft bed and the quiet satisfaction of knowing what we just did.
Mountain flights depend on the weather and delays can happen. If the flight from Lukla is delayed, this extra day gives you the buffer you need.
Smooth flight back? The day is yours. It’s a great opportunity for sightseeing. There’s so much to explore in the Kathmandu Valley!
Sightseeing
Kathmandu is an ancient city with many UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Want to explore the city today? Here are some ideas.
Boudhanath Stupa
One of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Boudhanath is the spiritual heart of the Tibetan community in Kathmandu. Walking the kora, the circular path around the stupa, alongside monks, pilgrims and locals is an experience that stays with you. The whitewashed dome, the prayer flags and the steady hum of chanting make this place unlike anywhere else in the city.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square
About 13 km east of Kathmandu lies Bhaktapur, a medieval city that feels like it has barely changed in centuries. The Durbar Square is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the Palace of 55 Windows, the five-story Nyatapola Temple and the ornate Golden Gate. Behind the square, Pottery Square is still a working craft centre where local artisans shape clay by hand, just as they have done for generations.
Pashupatinath Temple
The holiest Hindu temple in Nepal, dedicated to Lord Shiva in his form as Pashupati, protector of animals. The temple complex sits on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River, about 5 km from Thamel. Non-Hindus cannot enter the main temple, but the surrounding complex is open to all. From the eastern bank of the river, you can watch the cremation ghats and the daily rituals that have taken place here for centuries.
Walking & pace
We start the day early. Breakfast is at 7 AM, and we leave the lodge around 8. The morning hours are when the air is freshest and the views are at their clearest.
We stop for lunch towards the end of the morning. Lunch is freshly prepared, warm and unhurried. It can take a while for the food to come out, but that is part of the rhythm. You sit down, drink something, rest your legs and refuel for the afternoon.
In the afternoon, we usually walk a little further to reach the lodge for the night. By around five, we sit down for an early dinner. We order breakfast for the next morning at the same time, so it is ready when we are.
Throughout the day there is plenty of time to drink water, reapply sunscreen, take photos and simply look around. The mountains are not in a hurry, and neither are we.
Route
Altitude
About the 3 Passes Trek
This is one of the most demanding treks in Nepal. You cross three passes above 5,000 m, reach a maximum altitude of 5,545 m / 18,192 ft on Kala Patthar and spend multiple nights above 4,500 m. Two acclimatisation days are built into the itinerary. Prior trekking experience at altitude is strongly recommended.
The trails vary from well-maintained paths in the lower valleys to rocky, exposed terrain on the passes. The Cho La crossing involves a short glacier section where crampons may be needed. All three passes require an early start to avoid afternoon weather.
Quick facts
- Route type: loop
- Total distance: approximately 160 km / 99 mi
- Starting point: Lukla (2,860 m / 9,383 ft)
- Highest point: Kala Patthar (5,545 m / 18,192 ft)
- End point: Lukla (2,860 m / 9,383 ft)
- Number of trekking days: 17
- Highlights along the way:
- Lukla
- Namche Bazaar
- Thame valley and monastery
- Renjo La Pass
- Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri
- Ngozumpa Glacier
- Cho La Pass
- Everest Base Camp
- Kala Patthar
- Kongma La Pass
- Tengboche Monastery
Practical
Everything you need to know before you go. Below you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions about this trip. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Feel free to reach out.
Altitude sickness can affect anyone. Regardless of age, fitness or experience. Even the most seasoned mountain walkers can struggle with it.
The best prevention is going up slowly. That’s why our itinerary deliberately includes acclimatisation days where needed. This gives your body time to adjust to the altitude.
Drink plenty of water and listen to your body. Headaches, dizziness or nausea are signals to take seriously. Our guides are trained to recognise symptoms and will adjust the programme if necessary.
And if you do get altitude sickness? Descending is the only right choice. No debate, no hesitation. That’s not failure. That’s wisdom.
During the trek you sleep in teahouses: simple mountain lodges with firm mattresses, pillows and blankets against the cold, and dal bhat in the shared dining room.
Expect a twin room, a shared bathroom and cold water. A hot shower or wifi is sometimes possible, usually for a small extra fee. Charging your electronics is always possible, sometimes for a small fee. And then there is the warm fire in the dining room, friendly hospitality and views no hotel can match. This is the Himalaya.
PS: even though pillows and blankets are provided, we recommend bringing your own warm sleeping bag. The nights at altitude get cold, and your own bag makes a real difference. After booking, you’ll receive a detailed packing list that helps you prepare for both the trek and the nights in the lodges.
Yes, always.
The teahouse menu is plant-based by nature and offers plenty of choice. Three warm meals a day are freshly cooked in the teahouse kitchen. Breakfast options include porridge, pancakes, omelette and local bread. For lunch and dinner, expect dal bhat, curry, lentil soup, noodles, dumplings, spring rolls and pasta.
We strongly advise against eating meat on the trail. Ingredients are often carried in on foot and cannot always be kept properly refrigerated. Vegetarian and vegan options are the safer and more reliable choice.
Possibly.
The Cho La Pass involves a short glacier crossing. Depending on conditions, crampons and an ice axe may be required. Your guide will assess the conditions on the day and advise. We can arrange rental gear in Kathmandu or Namche Bazaar, if needed.
The best preparation is simply walking. Preferably several days in a row, with a backpack and elevation gain. In the months before departure, build up to walking days of 5 to 6 hours. Work on your overall fitness with cardio training (running, cycling, swimming) and don’t neglect your legs: squats, lunges and stair training work wonders.
Just as important: break in your hiking boots in time. New boots in Nepal are a guaranteed recipe for blisters. Ideally, start your training 3 to 6 months before departure.
Once your trip is confirmed, you’ll receive all the practical information you need to leave well prepared. This includes visa information, recommended vaccinations and a detailed packing list.
After arriving in Kathmandu, there’s a pre-trip meeting with your guide. We go through the route, the latest weather forecasts and there’s plenty of room for any final questions. We also do a gear check, to make sure you have everything you need for the trip. Missing something, or not sure about your gear? We’ll head out together to sort it. Kathmandu has plenty of good outdoor shops. 😉
Yes. Our individual trips are custom trips, and hiring a porter is optional and can be added to your booking. Most people travelling as a pair share one porter. The porter carries a maximum of 15 kg (33 lbs) in a duffel bag, which we provide on loan for the duration of the trek.
Hiring a porter is more than a practical choice. It is one of the most direct ways to contribute to the local economy. Portering is an important source of income and often the first step into the tourism sector for young people from mountain communities. It is how most of the guides started out. They learn the trekking routes, work with international travellers, pick up English and other languages, and build the experience needed to become a guide themselves.
If you feel uncertain about hiring a porter, there is no need to. At By Mountain People their work is valued, the pay is fair and the opportunity matters. If you would like to add a porter to your trip or have questions, get in touch and we will put together a proposal.
Mountain flights depend on weather and are frequently delayed or cancelled. This is why we built a contingency day into the itinerary as a buffer.
We strongly recommend booking flexible onward travel from Kathmandu. In case of extended delays. Helicopter evacuation from Lukla is possible at extra cost.
Nepal Trek – Kangchenjunga Circuit, the Hidden Giant
- Trek to the base camp of Kangchenjunga, the world's third highest mountain at 8,586 m / 28,169 ft
- Cross two high passes and complete a full circuit around the mountain
- One of the most remote and untouched trekking regions in Nepal
Nepal Group Trek – Upper Dolpo
Ask a question about this group trek
Manaslu Circuit with Larkya La, the Remote Trail
Ask a question about this trek
What our customers have to say
Don't just take our word for it. Discover what travelers before you wrote about traveling with us.
Excited to explore Nepal?
Now let's make it real. Browse our trips or request a quote. And we will get back to you personally ASAP.
Our own team on the ground. Dutch certified. The best of both worlds.
Deliberately small groups. And personal attention before, during and after your trip.
By hiring local guides and porters, you help them earn a good income. Close to home, not overseas.
In a nutshell
The Khopra Danda Family Trek is a friendly trek for families with children, through the quiet heart of the Annapurna region. Over 12 days, we walk through traditional Gurung villages, dense rhododendron forests and open alpine ridgelines, at a pace that works for everyone.
From Pokhara, a short drive brings us to Kande, where the trek begins. The trail climbs through Landruk, Ghandruk and Tadapani before entering quieter terrain towards Dobato and Dhankarka. The higher we climb, the fewer trekkers we meet. By the time we reach Khopra Danda at 3,660 m / 12,008 ft, the views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I and Manaslu stretch out in every direction.
We spend two nights on the ridge. The rest day is for everyone to enjoy at their own pace. Relax at the lodge, take a short hike in the surroundings or simply sit and watch the mountains. No pressure, no agenda.
The descent takes us through Chitre to Tatopani, where natural hot springs sit beside the river. A warm soak after days on the trail. Kids and adults agree this is the best part of the last day.
The trek ends with a short drive back to Pokhara.
Note: This is a suggested itinerary. Your trip is custom-made to fit your family’s wishes, pace and experience. Tell us what your preferences are. We’ll draft a personalised day-to-day program.
We recommend this trek for children from age 8. The daily stages are short and the terrain is varied but not technically demanding. A reasonable base fitness and a positive mindset are enough, no prior trekking experience is needed.
Between 3 and 5 hours per day on most days. The stages are kept deliberately short to maintain a pace that works for the whole family. There is always time to stop, explore and take things in.
Halfway through the day, we stop at a mountain lodge for a warm lunch. Think: pancakes, toast, rice or noodles, freshly cooked and never rushed.
Spring (February through May) and autumn (mid-September through November) are the best seasons for trekking in Nepal. The weather is stable, the skies are clear and the chance of snow at Khopra Danda is at its lowest.
Autumn is slightly busier. Spring is a little quieter, with rhododendron forests in full bloom along the route.
The highest sleeping point is Khopra Danda at 3,660 m / 12,008 ft. At this altitude, altitude sickness is possible but unlikely for most people, including children. We climb gradually and take it slow.
It is important to drink plenty of water and listen to your body. Headaches, dizziness or nausea are signals to take seriously. Our guides are trained to recognise symptoms and will adjust the program if necessary.
And if you do get altitude sickness? Descending is the only right choice. No debate, no hesitation. That’s not failure. That’s wisdom.
Yes. This is a custom trip built around your family. If someone needs an extra rest day, a shorter stage or a different pace, we adjust. That is exactly what a custom trip is for.
Yes. This family trek is listed as trek-only itinerary, but we are happy to take care of the full journey. Think airport transfers, hotel nights in Kathmandu or Pokhara, domestic flights, a jungle safari in Chitwan or anything else you would like to add.
Get in touch and we will discuss your wishes and put together a personalised proposal.
This is a suggested itinerary. A plan that shows what a family trek in Nepal can look like. Not how it has to go.
Get in touch and we’ll create a trek that fits your and your family’s level of fitness and experience.
What’s included
The price of the Khopra Danda Family Trek is per person, based on two people travelling together.
Are you travelling with a larger family? We are happy to make you a custom price proposal. Just send us a message and we’ll get back to you with the options.
Included in this trip
- Pre-trip meeting in Kathmandu
- Bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara
- Hotel accommodation in Pokhara (including breakfast) – 1 night before the trek
- All required trekking permits
- Licensed, English speaking trekking guide (salary, transport, accommodation, meals, gear and insurance)
- Experienced mountain porter (salary, transport, accommodation, meals, gear and insurance)
- Private transport from Pokhara to the trailhead and back
- All teahouse accommodation during the trek
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner during the trek
- 24/7 support from the By Mountain People team throughout your trip
- Booking secured through VZR Garant
- VAT and tourist service charge
Not included
- Any hot and cold drinks
- Travel health insurance covering rescue and evacuation — mandatory in Nepal
- Tips
- All other expenses not listed under 'Included'
Day-to-day program
This is an example itinerary. It shows you how a family trek to Khopra Danda is typically structured, day by day. Because we tailor every journey to your wishes and experience level of you and your kids, the exact program may vary.
Note: walking times are indicative and depend on your walking pace.
The day before the trek begins. You meet your guide, go through the itinerary and check your gear. Missing something? Your guide will take you to the outdoor shops nearby to get everything sorted.
Got everything you need? Take the rest of the day to recover from the jetlag, explore Thamel at your own pace or venture a little further into the city.
We take the bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara. The road winds through hills, river valleys and terraced farmland.
Along the way, we make regular stops to stretch our legs, grab something to eat or drink and use the facilities. By late afternoon, we arrive in Pokhara.
🚙💨 Prefer a private vehicle or domestic flight?
That's possible. It's faster and a bit more comfortable and flexible. Get in touch for details.
A short drive from Pokhara takes us to Kande, where the trek begins. 🙌
We lace up our boots and step onto the trail. The path descends through terraced fields and rhododendron forest. And … with good weather, the mountains appear!
A shorter day through terraced hillsides and traditional Gurung villages. Along the way, we can see local families who live here. They’re very curious, friendly and often very interested in your family. Many of them walk to a neighbouring village six days a week just to go to school. Saturday is their one day off. Ghandruk is one of the largest Gurung settlements in Nepal: stone houses, narrow alleys and Annapurna South rising directly above.
We climb through dense oak and rhododendron forest, with Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre growing closer with every step. Tadapani sits on a ridge with wide views in all directions.
We leave the forest behind and climb into quieter, more open terrain. Moss-covered rocks, silent paths and the first real sense of being far from the crowds. Dobato is basic and beautiful.
A shorter day through alpine meadows and rocky terrain. The trail is quiet here. Yaks, wind and mountain views. Dhankarka is a small, simple settlement where the pace slows right down.
The final climb to Khopra Danda. As we reach the ridge, the mountains open up completely: Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I and Manaslu. All can be visible at once.
Khopra Danda is as simple as it gets. A single small lodge on an exposed mountain ridge, with around ten rooms for trekkers and a handful of locals who cook and keep the place running. No village, no shops, no crowds. Just the mountains and the views. We spend two nights here.
Today the choice is yours. Rest at the lodge, or go for a short hike up.
💪 Family with fit and older kids?
At 4,600 m / 15,092 ft, there's the remote Khayer Lake. This lake sits higher than Annapurna Base Camp and is almost always deserted. The lake is sacred to Hindus and Buddhists. Once a year, during the Janai Purnima festival, pilgrims trek up here to pray and bathe in the glacial water. It's an adventurous destination for a full day hike.
We leave the ridge and begin the descent. The landscape shifts back to forest and terraced hillsides. Chitre is a quiet village with warm teahouses and the first signs of lower altitude.
A long descent to Tatopani, a village known for its natural hot springs beside the Kali Gandaki river. After days at altitude, the warm water is exactly what the legs need.
We board our vehicle and drive back to Pokhara. The trek is done.
Congrats! 🎉 You walked through the quiet heart of the Annapurna region, stood on one of its finest ridges and earned every step.
Walking & pace
We usually start the day early. Breakfast is at 7 AM, and we leave the lodge around 8. The morning hours are when the air is freshest and the views are at their clearest.
We stop for lunch towards the end of the morning. Lunch is freshly prepared, warm and unhurried. It can take a while for the food to come out, but that is part of the rhythm. You sit down, play a game with the kids, rest your legs and refuel for the afternoon.
In the afternoon, we usually walk a little further to reach the lodge for the night. By around five, we sit down for an early dinner. We order breakfast for the next morning at the same time, so it is ready when we are.
Throughout the day there is plenty of time to drink water, reapply sunscreen, take photos and simply look around. The mountains are not in a hurry, and neither are we.
Route
Altitude
More information
This is a family trek through the southern Annapurna region over 9 walking days. Daily stages are kept short and manageable, between 3 and 5 hours per day. The route is suitable for children from age 8 with a reasonable level of fitness. No technical terrain, no glacier crossings, no high passes.
The trails vary from stone staircases and forest paths in the lower sections to open ridgelines and alpine meadows higher up. The highest sleeping point is Khopra Danda at 3,660 m / 12,008 ft. Altitude sickness is unlikely at this height, but worth being aware of.
Quick facts
- Route type: point-to-point
- Total distance: approximately 105 km / 65 mi
- Starting point: Kande (approx. 1,770 m / 5,807 ft)
- Highest point: Khopra Danda (3,660 m / 12,008 ft)
- End point: Tatopani (1,190 m / 3,904 ft)
- Number of trekking days: 9
- Highlights along the way:
- Landruk and Ghandruk village with Gurung culture
- Rhododendron forests (blooming in March)
- Tadapani sunrise
- Khopra Danda ridge
- Tatopani hot spring
Practical
Everything you need to know before you go. Below you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions about the trek to Khopra Danda. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Feel free to reach out.
Once your Nepal family trek is confirmed, you’ll receive all the practical information you need to leave well prepared. This includes visa information, recommended vaccinations and a detailed packing list.
After arriving in Kathmandu, there’s a pre-trip meeting with your guide. We go through the route, the latest weather forecasts and there’s plenty of room for any final questions. We also do a gear check, to make sure you and your family have everything you need for the trip. Missing something, or not sure about your gear? We’ll head out together to sort it. Kathmandu has plenty of good outdoor shops. 😉
The most important preparation is getting used to walking. In the weeks before departure, go on regular walks with the whole family. Preferably with some elevation gain and a light daypack. Building up gradually is more effective than one long walk the weekend before you fly.
On the trail, the right gear makes a big difference: well-worn walking boots, moisture-wicking layers and a good rain jacket. Sunscreen and sunglasses are essential at altitude.
One tip that experienced trekking families swear by: bring a small game or activity for the evenings. A puzzle book, a reading book or a deck of cards. Light to carry, easy to enjoy and a great way to wind down together after a day on the trail.
Yes, and we recommend it. A porter helps with carrying bags so your family can focus on walking and enjoying the surroundings.
We usually arrange one porter per two people, carrying a maximum of 16 kg / 35 lbs per porter. We provide a sturdy duffel bag on loan for the duration of the trek. Your gear goes in the duffel, which the porter carries, while the kids (and you) carry a small daypack with the essentials for the day.
Hiring a porter also directly supports the local economy. Get in touch and we will include a porter in your custom itinerary.
During the trek you sleep in teahouses: simple mountain lodges with firm mattresses, pillows and blankets against the cold, and dal bhat in the shared dining room.
Expect a twin room, a shared bathroom and cold water. A hot shower or wifi is sometimes possible, usually for a small extra fee. Charging your electronics is always possible, sometimes for a small fee. And then there is the warm fire in the dining room, friendly hospitality and views no hotel can match. This is the Himalaya.
PS: even though pillows and blankets are provided, we recommend bringing your own warm sleeping bag. The nights at altitude get cold, and your own bag makes a real difference. After booking, you’ll receive a detailed packing list that helps you prepare for both the trek and the nights in the lodges.
Yes, always.
The teahouse menu is plant-based by nature and offers plenty of choice. Three warm meals a day are freshly cooked in the teahouse kitchen. Breakfast options include porridge, pancakes, omelette and local bread. For lunch and dinner, expect dal bhat, curry, lentil soup, noodles, dumplings, spring rolls and pasta.
We strongly advise against eating meat on the trail. Ingredients are often carried in on foot and cannot always be kept properly refrigerated. Vegetarian and vegan options are the safer and more reliable choice.
Nepal Family Trek – Khopra Danda, the Quiet Annapurna Trail
- A little-visited Annapurna trek, perfect for families with kids from age 6
- Your guide is a parent too; patient, experienced and attuned to the pace of a family on the trail
- Relax in the natural hot springs of Tatopani at the end of the trek
Bird Watching: Annapurna Trek & Jungle Safari
Ask us a question
Bird Watching: Annapurna Trek
Ask us a questionWhat our customers have to say
Don't just take our word for it. Discover what travelers before you wrote about traveling with us.
Excited to explore Nepal?
Now let's make it real. Browse our trips or request a quote. And we will get back to you personally ASAP.
Our own team on the ground. Dutch certified. The best of both worlds.
Deliberately small groups. And personal attention before, during and after your trip.
By hiring local guides and porters, you help them earn a good income. Close to home, not overseas.
In a nutshell
With the Everest 3 Passes Trek, you explore the entire Everest region in one big loop. Over 19 days, you cross three high passes above 5,000 m, visit Everest Base Camp, stand on Kala Patthar and walk through the quieter Gokyo valley. All in a single trek.
The journey starts in Kathmandu with a pre-trip meeting. The following morning, a mountain flight brings you to Lukla. From there, the trek begins along the Dudh Koshi river to Namche Bazaar, the gateway to the Khumbu.
The route splits from the standard Everest Base Camp (EBC) trail early on. Instead of following the crowds straight to Base Camp, you head west through the remote Thame valley towards Renjo La. On the other side lies Gokyo, with its string of glacial lakes and the viewpoint of Gokyo Ri, where four eight-thousanders appear in a single panorama.
From Gokyo, you cross the Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest in the Himalaya, to reach the Cho La Pass. On the other side, the route leads to Everest Base Camp and up to Kala Patthar for a close-up view of Everest itself. The final pass, Kongma La, completes the circuit before the trail descends back to Namche and Lukla.
This is one of the most demanding treks in Nepal. It is also one of the most complete.
Note: This is a suggested itinerary. Your trip is custom-made to fit your wishes and experience. Tell us what your preferences are. We’ll draft a personalised day-to-day program.
Spring (February through May) and autumn (September through November) are the best seasons for this trek. The weather is stable, the skies are clear and the chance of snow on the passes is at its lowest.
Autumn is slightly busier. Spring is a little quieter, with rhododendron forests in full bloom along the route.
You don’t need to be a top athlete, but this trek does ask something of you. Think 4 to 7 hours of walking per day, several days in a row, at altitude. If you’re used to multi-day mountain hikes, you’ll generally be fine. The days to the cross the 3 passes are the most demanding sections: steep and possibly icy.
Not sure? Just get in touch. We’re happy to look at your experience level together and see whether this route suits you.
No. The Everest 3 Passes Trek is one of the most demanding treks in Nepal. You need prior experience trekking at altitude, a strong fitness level and the ability to walk 6 to 8 hours a day over multiple consecutive days. If you have done the standard EBC trek before, this is a suitable next step.
The 3rd pass of Kongma La Pass at 5,535 m / 18,159 ft is the highest point. of the 3 Passes Trek.
The day before Kongma La, you have the option to hike Kala Patthar, at 5,545 m / 18,192 ft. This is also the best viewpoint for a close-up view of Mount Everest.
Yes. Instead of flying to Lukla, we can arrange a bus or jeep to the lower Everest region, from where the trek begins on foot.
Most trekkers skip this section entirely, which is a shame. Because it is one of the quietest and most beautiful parts of the entire route. Few crowds, unspoiled villages and a gradual introduction to the mountains. The extra days it takes are well worth it.
Get in touch and we will put together a personalised itinerary.
This is a suggested itinerary. A plan that shows what a trek like this can look like. Not how it has to go.
Want to add an extra acclimatisation day, start from a different point? Or make this a complete Nepal trip, including time elsewhere in Nepal? Get in touch and we will build a trip that fits your pace and preferences.
Get in touch and we’ll create a trip that fits you.
🕑 Trek clockwise or anti-clockwise
You can trek this route clockwise or anti-clockwise. Trekking clockwise helps your body acclimatise more gradually and safely. Plus: clockwise is considered respectful in Nepal. Just like when you pass a mani-wall or a stupa.
What’s included
The price of the Everest 3 Passes Trek is per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a twin or double room.
Are you travelling solo or with a larger group? We are happy to make you a custom price proposal. Just send us a message and we’ll get back to you with the options.
Included in this trip
- Pre-trip meeting and briefing in Kathmandu
- All required trekking permits
- Licensed, English speaking trekking guide (salary, transport, accommodation, meals, gear and insurance)
- Private airport transfer from Thamel to the domestic airport and back
- Domestic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, the trailhead of the trek and back
- All teahouse accommodation during your trek
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner during your trek
- 24/7 support from the By Mountain People team throughout your trip
- Booking secured through the Calamity Fund
- Booking secured through VZR Garant
- VAT and tourist service charge
Not included
- Porter (on request)
- Any hot and cold drinks
- Insurance covering rescue and evacuation
- Tips
- All other expenses not listed under 'Included'
Day-to-day program
This is an example itinerary. It shows you how the Everest 3 Passes Trek this is typically structured, day by day. Because we tailor every journey to your wishes and experience, the exact program may vary.
Note: walking times are indicative and depend on your pace.
The moment you have been looking forward to: today you meet your Everest mountain guide. 🙏🏽
After breakfast, you go through the itinerary together and check your gear. Missing something? Your guide knows exactly where to go. The outdoor shops around the hotel in Thamel stock everything you could possibly need, from warm layers to trekking poles, and your guide is happy to help you find the right thing.
By afternoon, everything is sorted and the excitement is real. Tomorrow, the trek begins!
Up early. Your guide picks you up at the hotel and you drive together to the airport in the dark. The mountain flight to Lukla is short, about 30 minutes, but unforgettable. The plane threads between ridges and drops onto one of the most dramatic runways in the world. Hopefully on time, but in the mountains, schedules bend to the weather.
In Lukla, you meet your porters for the first time. Now the trek really begins. The trail drops out of the village and follows the Dudh Koshi river downstream through rhododendron forest to Phakding, where we spend the first night on the trail.
🛬 Landing in Lukla
Tenzing-Hillary Airport has a runway of just 527 metres, a steep drop at one end, and sits at 2,860 m / 9,383 ft. It was built in 1964 with funding from Sir Edmund Hillary. There are no go-arounds: if the approach is not right, the pilot turns back to Kathmandu. Weather decides everything, which is why a contingency day at the end of every Everest trek is not optional.
The trail crosses the river on suspension bridges, each one higher than the last. The climb to Namche is long and relentless. But somewhere on that final ridge, you can see Everest for the first time, framed between the peaks.
💡 Namche is the commercial and cultural heart of the Khumbu
Every Saturday, traders from surrounding mountain villages walk to Namche for the weekly market. Some walk for several hours. Before the first Everest summit in 1953, Namche was a modest trading post where Sherpas bartered yak cheese and butter for goods from the lowlands. That historic ascent changed everything. Today it is the commercial and cultural heart of the Khumbu, with bakeries, gear shops, a Sherpa museum and what claims to be the highest Irish pub in the world.
We take it easy today. No major elevation gain, but plenty of time to acclimatize. If you like, we can go for a short hike. Or, just kick-back and relax in the village.
Namche Bazaar sits in a horseshoe-shaped bowl, carved into the hillside of the Khumbu, the high mountain valley that leads to Everest. It is the main hub of the entire region: part village, part base camp supply depot, part crossroads for every trek in the area.
Bakeries with fresh cinnamon rolls, gear shops stacked to the ceiling, Sherpa families going about their day and trekkers from all over the world sitting over a pot of tea.
Active rest: a few ideas for today
Climb high, sleep low. It helps your body acclimatize. Here are some options if you want to go for a hike today.
Hike to Everest View Hotel
A two to three hour round trip above Namche, through pine forest and past Sherpa settlements. At the top, a panoramic view of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam and Thamserku. Sit down for a cup of tea and take it all in. This is the classic "climb high, sleep low" acclimatisation hike, and one of the finest viewpoints in Namche Bazaar.
Visit Sherpa Culture Museum
Opened in 1994 by Sir Edmund Hillary himself, this small but fascinating museum tells the story of the Sherpa people: their history, traditions, mountaineering achievements and daily life at altitude. The Hall of Fame honours Sherpas who have reached extraordinary heights. A good hour well spent before heading higher into the mountains.
Explore Namche Bazaar
Walk the streets, browse the gear shops, find a bakery and order something warm. If we are here on a Saturday, the weekly market is worth seeing: traders from surrounding villages arrive early in the morning to sell produce, yak wool and local goods. By noon it is mostly over, so an early start pays off. In the evening, the Irish pub at the top of town claims to be the highest and most remote of its kind in the world.
💡 There's a monastery with the scalp of a yeti …
Above Namche are twin Sherpa villages. In Khumjung the Hillary School, built by Sir Edmund Hillary in 1961, still educates local children. The monastery nearby houses what is claimed to be a Yeti scalp. In Khunde, the Hillary Hospital has served the Sherpa community for decades. It's a quiet, rewarding half day hike off the main trail, to visit Khumjung and Khunde.
Here we leave the main EBC trail and head west into the Bhote Koshi valley. The path follows a trading route used for centuries by yak caravans between Nepal and Tibet. Thame is a quiet, traditional Sherpa village with a monastery perched above it.
The valley narrows and the landscape turns alpine. We follow the river upstream past stone walls and grazing yaks to the small settlement of Lungden, the last stop before the first pass.
An early start for the crossing of Renjo La. We climb steadily and the views grow with every step. At the summit, a panorama opens up: Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and the turquoise Gokyo Lake far below. All at once. The descent to Gokyo is long but beautiful.
✨ A sky full of stars at Gokyo
Before you jump into your sleeping bag, step outside. At 4,750 m / 15,584 ft, far from any city light, the sky above Gokyo is packed with stars from horizon to horizon. Then look down. On a still night, the surface of Gokyo Lake mirrors the sky so perfectly that you seem to be standing between two universes; the same stars above and below. It is one of those moments that is almost impossible to photograph and impossible to forget.
A rest day beside the glacial lakes of Gokyo.
On the optional climb to Gokyo Ri, about two hours up, you earn one of the finest viewpoints in Nepal: four eight-thousanders in a single panorama, including Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse and Makalu.
Today’s a shorter day along the shore of the Gokyo Lakes, skirting the edge of the Ngozumpa Glacier. Tagnag is a small cluster of teahouses, quiet and exposed. We take good rest here for the big day tomorrow.
Time for the second pass! We climb through a boulder field, then step onto the glacier. we may need crampons, depending on the conditions.
At the summit, the Khumbu Glacier and the peaks above Gorak Shep come into full view. The descent to Dzonglha is demanding but dramatic.
This is a shorter day, across a high plateau with views of Nuptse and Pumori. We join the main EBC trail at Lobuche.
The altitude is noticeable here. So we’ll take it easy.
This is the biggest day of our 3 Passes Trek.
We start before sunrise for the climb to Kala Patthar, the highest point of the trek and the best viewpoint for Everest. Then we descend to Gorak Shep, collect our bags and walk to Everest Base Camp: the legendary place where expedition teams gather before attempting the highest summit on earth. And we go to Gorak Shep for the night.
💡 The Khumbu Icefall moves
Between Base Camp and Camp I lies the Khumbu Icefall: a constantly shifting river of ice and seracs that expedition teams must cross multiple times on their way to the summit. It is widely considered the most dangerous section of any Everest ascent. Trekkers walking to Base Camp see it from below, the scale only becomes real when you are standing at its foot, looking up.
It’s time for the third and highest pass. The climb from Gorak Shep is long and exposed. At the top, we can see Nuptse, Lhotse and the Khumbu Glacier in extraordinary detail. The descent to Chhukung is steep and rocky.
It’s a long day. But the hardest climbing is now behind us.
We have a short, easy descent to Dingboche. Rest here, eat well and let your body recover after three passes.
We descend through the Imja Khola valley with changing views of Ama Dablam at every turn. Tengboche Monastery sits on a ridge above the treeline, one of the most beautifully positioned monasteries in Nepal.
We go back through rhododendron forests, cross the river at Phunki Tenga and climb back up to Namche. Familiar ground, but everything looks different on the way down.
The descent continues. We follow the Dudh Koshi river downstream through forest and past suspension bridges. The air gets warmer with every hour.
A short final walk back to Lukla. Congrats! You did it! You completed the Everest 3 Passes Trek. 🎉
It’s time to celebrate, reflect and say goodbye to your porters. the people who carried the weight so you could enjoy this great Everest journey.
We take an early morning flight back to Kathmandu. From the plane, we can catch one last view of the Khumbu peaks before the mountains disappear behind the clouds.
Back in the city: rest, eat and let it all sink in.
Mountain flights depend on the weather and delays can happen. If the flight from Lukla is delayed, this extra day gives you the buffer you need.
Smooth flight back? The day is yours. It’s a great opportunity for sightseeing. There’s so much to explore in the Kathmandu Valley!
Sightseeing
Kathmandu is an ancient city with many UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Want to explore the city today? Here are some ideas.
Boudhanath Stupa
One of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Boudhanath is the spiritual heart of the Tibetan community in Kathmandu. Walking the kora, the circular path around the stupa, alongside monks, pilgrims and locals is an experience that stays with you. The whitewashed dome, the prayer flags and the steady hum of chanting make this place unlike anywhere else in the city.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square
About 13 km east of Kathmandu lies Bhaktapur, a medieval city that feels like it has barely changed in centuries. The Durbar Square is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the Palace of 55 Windows, the five-story Nyatapola Temple and the ornate Golden Gate. Behind the square, Pottery Square is still a working craft centre where local artisans shape clay by hand, just as they have done for generations.
Pashupatinath Temple
The holiest Hindu temple in Nepal, dedicated to Lord Shiva in his form as Pashupati, protector of animals. The temple complex sits on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River, about 5 km from Thamel. Non-Hindus cannot enter the main temple, but the surrounding complex is open to all. From the eastern bank of the river, you can watch the cremation ghats and the daily rituals that have taken place here for centuries.
Walking & pace
We usually start the day early. Breakfast is at 7 AM, and we leave the lodge around 8. The morning hours are when the air is freshest and the views are at their clearest.
We stop for lunch towards the end of the morning. Lunch is freshly prepared, warm and unhurried. It can take a while for the food to come out, but that is part of the rhythm. You sit down, drink something, rest your legs and refuel for the afternoon.
In the afternoon, we usually walk a little further to reach the lodge for the night. By around five, we sit down for an early dinner. We order breakfast for the next morning at the same time, so it is ready when we are.
Throughout the day there is plenty of time to drink water, reapply sunscreen, take photos and simply look around. The mountains are not in a hurry, and neither are we.
Route
Altitude
About the 3 Passes Trek
This is one of the most demanding treks in Nepal. You cross three passes above 5,000 m, reach a maximum altitude of 5,545 m / 18,192 ft on Kala Patthar and spend multiple nights above 4,500 m. Two acclimatisation days are built into the itinerary. Prior trekking experience at altitude is strongly recommended.
The trails vary from well-maintained paths in the lower valleys to rocky, exposed terrain on the passes. The Cho La crossing involves a short glacier section where crampons may be needed. All three passes require an early start to avoid afternoon weather.
Quick facts
- Route type: loop
- Total distance: approximately 160 km / 99 mi
- Starting point: Lukla (2,860 m / 9,383 ft)
- Highest point: Kala Patthar (5,545 m / 18,192 ft)
- End point: Lukla (2,860 m / 9,383 ft)
- Number of trekking days: 17
- Highlights along the way:
- Lukla
- Namche Bazaar
- Thame valley and monastery
- Renjo La Pass
- Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri
- Ngozumpa Glacier
- Cho La Pass
- Everest Base Camp
- Kala Patthar
- Kongma La Pass
- Tengboche Monastery
Practical
Everything you need to know before you go. Below you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions about this trip. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Feel free to reach out.
Altitude sickness can affect anyone. Regardless of age, fitness or experience. Even the most seasoned mountain walkers can struggle with it.
The best prevention is going up slowly. That’s why our itinerary deliberately includes acclimatisation days where needed. This gives your body time to adjust to the altitude.
Drink plenty of water and listen to your body. Headaches, dizziness or nausea are signals to take seriously. Our guides are trained to recognise symptoms and will adjust the programme if necessary.
And if you do get altitude sickness? Descending is the only right choice. No debate, no hesitation. That’s not failure. That’s wisdom.
During the trek you sleep in teahouses: simple mountain lodges with firm mattresses, pillows and blankets against the cold, and dal bhat in the shared dining room.
Expect a twin room, a shared bathroom and cold water. A hot shower or wifi is sometimes possible, usually for a small extra fee. Charging your electronics is always possible, sometimes for a small fee. And then there is the warm fire in the dining room, friendly hospitality and views no hotel can match. This is the Himalaya.
PS: even though pillows and blankets are provided, we recommend bringing your own warm sleeping bag. The nights at altitude get cold, and your own bag makes a real difference. After booking, you’ll receive a detailed packing list that helps you prepare for both the trek and the nights in the lodges.
Yes, always.
The teahouse menu is plant-based by nature and offers plenty of choice. Three warm meals a day are freshly cooked in the teahouse kitchen. Breakfast options include porridge, pancakes, omelette and local bread. For lunch and dinner, expect dal bhat, curry, lentil soup, noodles, dumplings, spring rolls and pasta.
We strongly advise against eating meat on the trail. Ingredients are often carried in on foot and cannot always be kept properly refrigerated. Vegetarian and vegan options are the safer and more reliable choice.
Possibly.
The Cho La Pass involves a short glacier crossing. Depending on conditions, crampons and an ice axe may be required. Your guide will assess the conditions on the day and advise. We can arrange rental gear in Kathmandu or Namche Bazaar, if needed.
The best preparation is simply walking. Preferably several days in a row, with a backpack and elevation gain. In the months before departure, build up to walking days of 5 to 6 hours. Work on your overall fitness with cardio training (running, cycling, swimming) and don’t neglect your legs: squats, lunges and stair training work wonders.
Just as important: break in your hiking boots in time. New boots in Nepal are a guaranteed recipe for blisters. Ideally, start your training 3 to 6 months before departure.
Once your trip is confirmed, you’ll receive all the practical information you need to leave well prepared. This includes visa information, recommended vaccinations and a detailed packing list.
After arriving in Kathmandu, there’s a pre-trip meeting with your guide. We go through the route, the latest weather forecasts and there’s plenty of room for any final questions. We also do a gear check, to make sure you have everything you need for the trip. Missing something, or not sure about your gear? We’ll head out together to sort it. Kathmandu has plenty of good outdoor shops. 😉
Yes. Our individual trips are custom trips, and hiring a porter is optional and can be added to your booking. Most people travelling as a pair share one porter. The porter carries a maximum of 15 kg (33 lbs) in a duffel bag, which we provide on loan for the duration of the trek.
Hiring a porter is more than a practical choice. It is one of the most direct ways to contribute to the local economy. Portering is an important source of income and often the first step into the tourism sector for young people from mountain communities. It is how most of the guides started out. They learn the trekking routes, work with international travellers, pick up English and other languages, and build the experience needed to become a guide themselves.
If you feel uncertain about hiring a porter, there is no need to. At By Mountain People their work is valued, the pay is fair and the opportunity matters. If you would like to add a porter to your trip or have questions, get in touch and we will put together a proposal.
Mountain flights depend on weather and are frequently delayed or cancelled. This is why we built a contingency day into the itinerary as a buffer.
We strongly recommend booking flexible onward travel from Kathmandu. In case of extended delays. Helicopter evacuation from Lukla is possible at extra cost.
Nepal Trek – Everest Circuit with 3 Passes, the Challenging Loop
- Three passes, three challenges: Kongma La, Cho La and Renjo La
- Beyond the main trail: turquoise Gokyo Lakes, Gokyo Ri and 4 eight-thousanders in 1 view
- Walk the Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in the Himalaya
Bird Watching: Annapurna Trek & Jungle Safari
Ask us a questionBird Watching: Annapurna Trek
Ask us a questionWhat our customers have to say
Don't just take our word for it. Discover what travelers before you wrote about traveling with us.
Excited to explore Nepal?
Now let's make it real. Browse our trips or request a quote. And we will get back to you personally ASAP.
Our own team on the ground. Dutch certified. The best of both worlds.
Deliberately small groups. And personal attention before, during and after your trip.
By hiring local guides and porters, you help them earn a good income. Close to home, not overseas.
In a nutshell
The Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo combines two classic routes in the region into one big loop. You trek via the remote Gokyo lakes and the high Cho La pass to Everest Base Camp. Over two weeks in the heart of the Himalaya.
From Namche Bazaar, you leave the busy trail behind and turn into a quiet valley. From here, you climb gradually towards Gokyo, on the shores of the ice-cold Gokyo lake. From the top of Gokyo Ri, you look out over no fewer than four eight-thousanders, including Mount Everest itself. Then you cross the high Cho La pass and a glacier, the bold highlight of your trip.
On the other side of the pass, you continue towards Everest Base Camp (EBC). The legendary place where expeditions set off for the highest summit in the world. You hike up to the top of Kala Patthar, where you feel almost face to face with the mighty Mount Everest.
This trek is not a quick up-and-back to Base Camp. The route is intentionally different from the standard base camp trek. Quieter, more varied and a bit more adventurous.
Note: This is a suggested itinerary. Your trip is custom-made to fit your wishes and experience. Tell us what you want. We’ll take care of the rest.
Spring (February through April) and autumn (mid-September through November) are the best seasons for this trek. The weather is stable, the skies are clear and the chance of snow on the Cho La pass is at its lowest. Autumn is slightly busier. Spring is a little quieter, with rhododendron forests in full bloom along the route.
You don’t need to be a top athlete, but this trek does ask something of you. Think 5 to 8 hours of walking per day, several days in a row, at altitude. If you’re used to multi-day mountain hikes, you’ll generally be fine. The Cho La pass (5,420 m) is the toughest section: steep, possibly icy and with a short glacier crossing.
Not sure? Just get in touch. We’re happy to look at your fitness level together and see whether this route suits you.
The pass of Cho La at 5,420 m / 17,782 ft is the highest point. of the Gokyo EBC Trek.
The day before Cho La, you have the option to hike Gokyo Ri, at 5,357 m / 17,575 ft. This is also a great viewpoint for a close-up view of Mount Everest.
This is a suggested itinerary. A plan that shows what a trek like this can look like. Not how it has to go.
Want more time to acclimatise? Or prefer an extra day at the Gokyo lakes? No problem. Want to combine the trip with a few extra days in Kathmandu before or after the trek, or perhaps a visit to another region in Nepal? That’s possible too.
Get in touch and we’ll create a trip that fits you.
Yes. Instead of flying to Lukla, we can arrange a bus or jeep to the lower Everest region, from where the trek begins on foot.
Most trekkers skip this section entirely, which is a shame. Because it is one of the quietest and most beautiful parts of the entire route. Few crowds, unspoiled villages and a gradual introduction to the mountains. The extra days it takes are well worth it.
Get in touch and we will put together a personalised itinerary.
Yes! Check the available departure dates or get in touch if you have any questions.
🕑 Trek clockwise or anti-clockwise
You can trek this route clockwise or anti-clockwise. Trekking clockwise helps your body acclimatise more gradually and safely. Plus: clockwise is considered respectful in Nepal. Just like when you pass a mani-wall or a stupa.
What’s included
The price of this trip is per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a twin or double room.
Are you travelling solo or with a larger group? We are happy to make you a custom price proposal. Just send us a message and we’ll get back to you with the options.
Included in this trip
- Pre-trip meeting and briefing in Kathmandu
- All required trekking permits
- Licensed, English speaking trekking guide (salary, transport, accommodation, meals, gear and insurance)
- Airport transfer from your hotel to the domestic airport
- Domestic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (the trailhead) and back
- All teahouse accommodation during your trek
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner during your trek
- 24/7 support from the By Mountain People team throughout your trip
- Booking secured through the Calamity Fund
- Booking secured through VZR Garant
- VAT and tourist service charge
Not included
- Porter (on request)
- Any hot and cold drinks
- Insurance covering rescue and evacuation
- Tips
- All other expenses not listed under 'Included'
Day-to-day program
This is an example itinerary. It shows you how a trip like this is typically structured, day by day. Because we tailor every journey to your wishes and experience, the exact program may vary.
Note: walking times are indicative and depend on the pace of the group.
Today the adventure begins. Depending on the season, we fly from Kathmandu or Ramechhap to Lukla. Flying from Ramechhap? Then the day starts early. Very early. Between 1:00 and 3:00 in the morning, we get on the bus. From Kathmandu it’s a little more relaxed, with an early morning start.
The flight to Lukla is an experience in itself. A small plane, spectacular mountain peaks and a runway you won’t forget in a hurry. After landing, the walk really begins, heading towards Phakding. It’s a relaxed, pleasant walk along the Dudh Koshi river.
🛬 Landing in Lukla
Tenzing-Hillary Airport has a runway of just 527 metres, a steep drop at one end, and sits at 2,860 m / 9,383 ft. It was built in 1964 with funding from Sir Edmund Hillary. There are no go-arounds: if the approach is not right, the pilot turns back to Kathmandu. Weather decides everything, which is why a contingency day at the end of every Everest trek is not optional.
Today we walk to Namche Bazaar, the beating heart of the Everest region. Along the way, we cross the Dudh Khosi river several times via impressive suspension bridges decorated with colourful prayer flags. After passing through the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park, the trail climbs steeply upward. The views along the way more than make up for it.
Namche itself is a lively mountain village that surprises many first-time visitors. It has everything: good restaurants, shops and even bakeries. Take some time to explore it at your own pace.
💡 Namche is the commercial and cultural heart of the Khumbu
Every Saturday, traders from surrounding mountain villages walk to Namche for the weekly market. Some walk for several hours. Before the first Everest summit in 1953, Namche was a modest trading post where Sherpas bartered yak cheese and butter for goods from the lowlands. That historic ascent changed everything. Today it is the commercial and cultural heart of the Khumbu, with bakeries, gear shops, a Sherpa museum and what claims to be the highest Irish pub in the world.
A rest day, but certainly not a dull one. Your body needs time to adjust to the altitude, and today we take that time. A short hike to the museum or the viewpoint at Syangboche is a great way to spend the day. The views across the Khumbu peaks are simply spectacular. Especially at sunrise and sunset.
Active rest: a few ideas for today
Today is built for acclimatisation. That doesn’t mean lying still. Walking up to a higher point during the day, then back to the lodge for the night, helps your body adjust to the altitude. Below you’ll find a few options for the day. Pick what suits you, or take it easy at the lodge.
Hike to Everest View Hotel
A two to three hour round trip above Namche, through pine forest and past Sherpa settlements. At the top, a panoramic view of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam and Thamserku. Sit down for a cup of tea and take it all in. This is the classic "climb high, sleep low" acclimatisation hike, and one of the finest viewpoints in Namche Bazaar.
Visit Sherpa Culture Museum
Opened in 1994 by Sir Edmund Hillary himself, this small but fascinating museum tells the story of the Sherpa people: their history, traditions, mountaineering achievements and daily life at altitude. The Hall of Fame honours Sherpas who have reached extraordinary heights. A good hour well spent before heading higher into the mountains.
Explore Namche Bazaar
Walk the streets, browse the gear shops, find a bakery and order something warm. If we are here on a Saturday, the weekly market is worth seeing: traders from surrounding villages arrive early in the morning to sell produce, yak wool and local goods. By noon it is mostly over, so an early start pays off. In the evening, the Irish pub at the top of town claims to be the highest and most remote of its kind in the world.
💡 There's a monastery with the scalp of a yeti …
Above Namche are twin Sherpa villages. In Khumjung the Hillary School, built by Sir Edmund Hillary in 1961, still educates local children. The monastery nearby houses what is claimed to be a Yeti scalp. In Khunde, the Hillary Hospital has served the Sherpa community for decades. It's a quiet, rewarding half day hike off the main trail, to visit Khumjung and Khunde.
Today we leave the busy trail towards Base Camp and take a quieter path. We climb up via Khumjung Hill and then descend through a wide valley towards the Dudh Khosi river. Along the way we pass a chorten on a mountain ridge and the village of Mohang, the birthplace of a reincarnated lama said to have introduced Buddhism to the Khumbu region. A place with a lot of history.
Today we walk through a beautiful rhododendron forest. In spring, it’s an explosion of deep pink and green. The trail runs past a waterfall and through a small village before we reach Dole. The altitude is now really starting to make itself felt, and the landscape becomes wilder and quieter.
A steady climb today, along the Dudh Khosi river. We pass a chorten and walk through small villages. The surroundings grow quieter and more rugged as you gain altitude. Machhermo itself is a small, remote settlement.
This is a day that will stay with you. We leave the inhabited world behind and step into the rugged high mountains. The trail passes chortens on a mountain ridge, with views of Kantega (6,782 m) and the mighty Cho Oyu (8,188 m), the sixth-highest mountain in the world.
Then we reach the Ngozumpa Glacier — the longest glacier in the Himalaya. We walk along its edge and pass the first and second sacred lakes before arriving in Gokyo, on the shore of the third lake, Dudh Pokhari. The mirror-smooth surface reflects the mountain peaks all around. It’s almost unreal, it’s so beautiful.
✨ A sky full of stars at Gokyo
Before you jump into your sleeping bag, step outside. At 4,750 m / 15,584 ft, far from any city light, the sky above Gokyo is packed with stars from horizon to horizon. Then look down. On a still night, the surface of Gokyo Lake mirrors the sky so perfectly that you seem to be standing between two universes; the same stars above and below. It is one of those moments that is almost impossible to photograph and impossible to forget.
An early start today. Before the sun rises, we step outside and begin the ascent of Gokyo Ri. It’s about two hours of climbing at a steady pace, until we reach the summit, marked by an enormous tangle of prayer flags.
In clear weather, the view from the top is beyond words. Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, four of the highest mountains in the world, right in front of you. And below you, the Ngozumpa Glacier cuts through the landscape like a giant scar. These are views you normally only see in expedition photographs.
A short day today. And intentionally so. We cross the Ngozumpa Glacier and follow the mountain wall to the small settlement of Dragnag. The afternoon is yours to rest and recharge. Because tomorrow we cross the Cho La pass.
This is probably the toughest day of the entire trip, and also an unforgettable one. The Cho La pass is not technical or difficult, but it is steep and can be slippery and icy. It requires concentration.
At the top of the pass, colourful prayer flags flutter in the wind. In clear conditions, the views here are breathtaking. You can see the pyramid-shaped Ama Dablam, Cholatse, Lobuche East, a panorama you won’t forget. After crossing a few glacier crevasses, we descend to Dzonglha, from where you look out over an endless mountain landscape.
After the intense day yesterday, this is a welcome, more relaxed day. We descend from Dzonglha via a green trail with views of Lobuche Peak and follow the wide river valley to Lobuche. The rest of the day is yours, for a good book, or simply soaking up the views.
Today we reach another highlight of this adventurous trek: Everest Base Camp. The trail leads through the former Gorak Shep lake, past memorial monuments and over rocky moraine. The thin air makes itself felt. So we take our time.
At Base Camp, you see the colourful tents of expeditions against a backdrop of grey rock and ice. And the giant Nuptse, Khumbutse and Pumori towering above you. After exploring Base Camp, we make our way back to Gorak Shep.
💡 The Khumbu Icefall moves
Between Base Camp and Camp I lies the Khumbu Icefall: a constantly shifting river of ice and seracs that expedition teams must cross multiple times on their way to the summit. It is widely considered the most dangerous section of any Everest ascent. Trekkers walking to Base Camp see it from below, the scale only becomes real when you are standing at its foot, looking up.
Another early start. In the dark, in the cold. The temperature here can easily drop to -10 or even -15 degrees Celsius. But when you reach the top of Kala Patthar and Everest unfolds before you, the cold somehow seems to disappear for a bit. Mount Everest feels even closer than you might have imagined.
After this moment, we descend to Pheriche. For a warm meal and hopefully a good night’s sleep.
The descent begins. We pass Pangboche and the oldest monastery in the region, where the skull and bones of a yeti are said to be kept… Then we continue to the monastery at Tengboche, high on a mountain ridge with views of Ama Dablam, before returning to the familiar surroundings of Namche Bazaar.
Today is our last day in the mountains. We walk back to Lukla, the place where everything began.
You didn’t take the shortest route to Base Camp. You made an incredible journey via Gokyo, over the Cho La pass and through places very few people ever reach.
From the air, you get one last look at the peaks you’ve spent the past weeks getting to know up close. After landing in Kathmandu or Ramechhap, our team takes you to your hotel.
Mountain flights depend on the weather and delays can happen. If the flight from Lukla is delayed, this extra day gives you the buffer you need.
Smooth flight back? The day is yours. It’s a great opportunity for sightseeing. There’s so much to explore in the Kathmandu Valley!
Sightseeing
Kathmandu is an ancient city with many UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Want to explore the city today? Here are some ideas.
Boudhanath Stupa
One of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Boudhanath is the spiritual heart of the Tibetan community in Kathmandu. Walking the kora, the circular path around the stupa, alongside monks, pilgrims and locals is an experience that stays with you. The whitewashed dome, the prayer flags and the steady hum of chanting make this place unlike anywhere else in the city.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square
About 13 km east of Kathmandu lies Bhaktapur, a medieval city that feels like it has barely changed in centuries. The Durbar Square is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the Palace of 55 Windows, the five-story Nyatapola Temple and the ornate Golden Gate. Behind the square, Pottery Square is still a working craft centre where local artisans shape clay by hand, just as they have done for generations.
Pashupatinath Temple
The holiest Hindu temple in Nepal, dedicated to Lord Shiva in his form as Pashupati, protector of animals. The temple complex sits on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River, about 5 km from Thamel. Non-Hindus cannot enter the main temple, but the surrounding complex is open to all. From the eastern bank of the river, you can watch the cremation ghats and the daily rituals that have taken place here for centuries.
Walking & pace
We start the day early. Breakfast is at 7 AM, and we leave the lodge around 8. The morning hours are when the air is freshest and the views are at their clearest.
We stop for lunch towards the end of the morning. Lunch is freshly prepared, warm and unhurried. It can take a while for the food to come out, but that is part of the rhythm. You sit down, drink something, rest your legs and refuel for the afternoon.
In the afternoon, we usually walk a little further to reach the lodge for the night. By around five, we sit down for an early dinner. We order breakfast for the next morning at the same time, so it is ready when we are.
Throughout the day there is plenty of time to drink water, reapply sunscreen, take photos and simply look around. The mountains are not in a hurry, and neither are we.
Route
Altitude
About the Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lake
This trek takes you through the Khumbu region, home of Mount Everest. You walk an average of 5 to 7 hours per day, with one high pass along the way. We have built 2 rest days into the itinerary for acclimatisation, in Namche Bazaar and in Gokyo.
The paths are mostly a mix of forest paths, rocky sections and exposed mountain trails. Expect stone steps, a landslide area and possible snow or ice on the higher sections. Some sections are demanding, others are gentle.
We classify this trip as 3 boots on our difficulty scale.
Quick facts
- Route type: loop
- Total distance: approximately 140 km
- Starting point: Lukla (2,860 m / 9,380 ft)
- Highest point: Kala Patthar (5,644 m / 18,519 ft)
- End point: Lukla (2,860 m / 9,380 ft)
- Number of trekking days: 13
- Number of rest days: 2
- Highlights along the way:
- Namche Bazaar
- Gokyo Lake
- Gokyo Ri
- Cho La Pass
- EBC
- Kala Patthar
Practical
Everything you need to know before you go. Below you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions about this trip. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Feel free to reach out.
The best preparation is simply walking. Preferably several days in a row, with a backpack and elevation gain. In the months before departure, build up to walking days of 5 to 6 hours. Work on your overall fitness with cardio training (running, cycling, swimming) and don’t neglect your legs: squats, lunges and stair training work wonders.
Just as important: break in your hiking boots in time. New boots in Nepal are a guaranteed recipe for blisters. Ideally, start your training 3 months before departure or even earlier.
Once your trip is confirmed, you’ll receive all the practical information you need to leave well prepared. This includes visa information, recommended vaccinations and a detailed packing list.
After arriving in Kathmandu, there’s a pre-trip meeting with your guide. We go through the route, the latest weather forecasts and there’s plenty of room for any final questions. We also do a gear check, to make sure you have everything you need for the trip. Missing something, or not sure about your gear? We’ll head out together to sort it. Kathmandu has plenty of good outdoor shops. 😉
Altitude sickness can affect anyone. Regardless of age, fitness or experience. Even the most seasoned mountain walkers can struggle with it.
The best prevention is going up slowly. That’s why our itinerary deliberately includes acclimatisation days where needed. This gives your body time to adjust to the altitude.
Drink plenty of water and listen to your body. Headaches, dizziness or nausea are signals to take seriously. Our guides are trained to recognise symptoms and will adjust the programme if necessary.
And if you do get altitude sickness? Descending is the only right choice. No debate, no hesitation. That’s not failure. That’s wisdom.
During the trek you sleep in teahouses: simple mountain lodges with firm mattresses, pillows and blankets against the cold, and dal bhat in the shared dining room.
Expect a twin room, a shared bathroom and cold water. A hot shower or wifi is sometimes possible, usually for a small extra fee. Charging your electronics is always possible, sometimes for a small fee. And then there is the warm fire in the dining room, friendly hospitality and views no hotel can match. This is the Himalaya.
PS: even though pillows and blankets are provided, we recommend bringing your own warm sleeping bag. The nights at altitude get cold, and your own bag makes a real difference. After booking, you’ll receive a detailed packing list that helps you prepare for both the trek and the nights in the lodges.
Yes, always.
The teahouse menu is plant-based by nature and offers plenty of choice. Three warm meals a day are freshly cooked in the teahouse kitchen. Breakfast options include porridge, pancakes, omelette and local bread. For lunch and dinner, expect dal bhat, curry, lentil soup, noodles, dumplings, spring rolls and pasta.
We strongly advise against eating meat on the trail. Ingredients are often carried in on foot and cannot always be kept properly refrigerated. Vegetarian and vegan options are the safer and more reliable choice.
Yes. Our individual trips are custom trips, and hiring a porter is optional and can be added to your booking. Most people travelling as a pair share one porter. The porter carries a maximum of 15 kg (33 lbs) in a duffel bag, which we provide on loan for the duration of the trek.
Hiring a porter is more than a practical choice. It is one of the most direct ways to contribute to the local economy. Portering is an important source of income and often the first step into the tourism sector for young people from mountain communities. It is how most of the guides started out. They learn the trekking routes, work with international travellers, pick up English and other languages, and build the experience needed to become a guide themselves.
If you feel uncertain about hiring a porter, there is no need to. At By Mountain People their work is valued, the pay is fair and the opportunity matters. If you would like to add a porter to your trip or have questions, get in touch and we will put together a proposal.
Possibly.
The Cho La Pass involves a short glacier crossing. Depending on conditions, crampons and an ice axe may be required. Your guide will assess the conditions on the day and advise. We can arrange rental gear in Kathmandu or Namche Bazaar, if needed.
Mountain flights depend on weather and are frequently delayed or cancelled. This is why we built a contingency day into the itinerary as a buffer.
We strongly recommend booking flexible onward travel from Kathmandu. In case of extended delays. Helicopter evacuation from Lukla is possible at extra cost.
Nepal Trek – Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lake, the Adventure Trail
- Across the high Cho La pass, on a great loop through the Khumbu region
- Two summits, two panoramas: Gokyo Ri and Kala Patthar
- The quiet route to Everest Base Camp
Bird Watching: Annapurna Trek & Jungle Safari
Ask us a questionBird Watching: Annapurna Trek
Ask us a questionWhat our customers have to say
Don't just take our word for it. Discover what travelers before you wrote about traveling with us.
Excited to explore Nepal?
Now let's make it real. Browse our trips or request a quote. And we will get back to you personally ASAP.
Our own team on the ground. Dutch certified. The best of both worlds.
Deliberately small groups. And personal attention before, during and after your trip.
By hiring local guides and porters, you help them earn a good income. Close to home, not overseas.
In a nutshell
The Manaslu Circuit Trek with Larkya La Pass takes you through one of the most remote and unspoiled mountain regions in Nepal. Over 14 days, the landscape shifts completely: from lush river valleys and bamboo forests to high alpine terrain with a distinctly Tibetan character. The Manaslu Circuit is rugged, quiet and varied. Every day looks different from the one before.
The trip starts in Kathmandu with a pre-trip meeting: you meet your guide and porters, go through the itinerary and do a gear check. The following morning, a bus takes you to Seti Khola, where the trek begins.
For 12 days, you follow the Budhi Gandaki river upstream, passing mani walls, stone villages and narrow gorges, while the landscape slowly transforms from green and lush to raw and high. Acclimatisation days in Samagaon and Samdo give your body the time it needs to adjust before the high section begins.
The absolute highlight is the crossing of the Larkya La Pass at 5,106 m / 16,752 ft. An early start, a long climb through ice and stone, and then the summit: prayer flags in the wind and a view you will not forget. The descent to Bhimtang is its own reward.
The trek ends in Tilje. From there, a jeep and bus take you back to Kathmandu.
Note: This is a suggested itinerary. Your trip is custom-made to fit your wishes and experience. Tell us what your preferences are. We’ll draft a personalised day-to-day program.
Spring (February through mid-May) and autumn (September through November) are the best seasons for this trek. The weather is stable, the skies are clear and the chance of snow on Larkya La Pass is at its lowest.
Autumn is slightly busier. Spring is a little quieter, with rhododendron forests in full bloom along the route.
You don’t need to be a top athlete, but this trek does ask something of you. Think 4 to 7 hours of walking per day, several days in a row, at altitude. If you’re used to multi-day mountain hikes, you’ll generally be fine. The day to the summit of Tserko Ri (4,985 m) is the most demanding section: steep and possibly icy.
Not sure? Just get in touch. We’re happy to look at your experience level together and see whether this route suits you.
This is a suggested itinerary. A plan that shows what a trek like this can look like. Not how it has to go.
Want to add an extra acclimatisation day, start from a different point? Or make this a complete Nepal trip, including time elsewhere in Nepal? Get in touch and we will build a trip that fits your pace and preferences.
Get in touch and we’ll create a trip that fits you.
This is not a beginner’s trek. The route is long, remote and reaches high altitude. You should be in good physical condition and comfortable walking for 5 to 7 hours a day over multiple days. Prior trekking experience is strongly recommended.
Not sure if you qualify? Get in touch and we will give you an honest answer.
⛰️ Manaslu means "Mountain of the Spirit"
The name Manaslu comes from the Sanskrit word manasa, meaning intellect or soul. At 8,163 m / 26,781 ft, it is the 8th highest mountain in the world. The first successful summit was reached by a Japanese expedition in 1956.
What’s included
The price of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a twin or double room.
Are you travelling solo or with a larger group? We are happy to make you a custom price proposal. Just send us a message and we’ll get back to you with the options.
Included in this trip
- Pre-trip meeting and briefing in Kathmandu
- All required trekking permits
- Licensed, English speaking trekking guide (salary, transport, accommodation, meals, gear and insurance)
- Private transport from Kathmandu to the trailhead and back
- All teahouse accommodation during your trek
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner during your trek
- 24/7 support from the By Mountain People team throughout your trip
- Booking secured through the Calamity Fund
- Booking secured through VZR Garant
- VAT and tourist service charge
Not included
- Porter (on request)
- Any hot and cold drinks
- Insurance covering rescue and evacuation
- Tips
- All other expenses not listed under 'Included'
Day-to-day program
This is an example itinerary. It shows you how a trip like this is typically structured, day by day. Because we tailor every journey to your wishes and experience, the exact program may vary.
Note: walking times are indicative and depend on your pace.
The day before the trek begins. You meet your guide, go through the itinerary and check your gear. Missing something? Your guide will take you to the outdoor shops nearby to get everything sorted.
Got everything you need? Take the rest of the day to recover from the jetlag, explore Thamel at your own pace or venture a little further into the city.
Early morning, you board the bus and head northwest towards the Gorkha region. The road is smooth until Dhading Besi. After that, it becomes rougher and more remote. Villages, terraced fields and river valleys pass by the window. By late afternoon, you reach Machha Khola, the starting point of the trek.
🚙💨 Prefer a jeep?
That's possible. It's faster, a bit more flexible and includes some great stops along the way. Get in touch for details.
The trek begins. You follow the Budhi Gandaki river upstream, crossing swaying suspension bridges and walking through small riverside settlements. Halfway through the day, you pass the natural hot springs of Tatopani, such a tempting stop.
The trail climbs through forest and rocky terrain before reaching Jagat, the entry point to the Manaslu Conservation Area.
🚫 One of the last restricted trekking areas in Nepal
The Manaslu Conservation Area requires a special restricted area permit. This was introduced to protect the fragile ecosystems and Tibetan-influenced cultures along the route. As a result, the trail sees far fewer trekkers than the Annapurna or Everest regions.
You leave Jagat and climb over a rocky ridge towards Salleri, then descend to Sirdibas. The trail continues through rhododendron forest and Himalayan pine, past mani walls and Buddhist prayer flags. You cross the Siyar Khola bridge and pass the junction where the trail splits towards Tsum Valley. By the end of the day, you reach the Buddhist village of Deng.
Countless Tibetan mani walls line the path today, their stones carved by hand with Buddhist texts. The trail winds through narrow gorges and colourful forests of spruce, oak and rhododendron. At the end of the day, you reach Namrung.
🌊 The Budhi Gandaki flows the entire length of the route
From Machha Khola to the high camps below the Larkya La, the Budhi Gandaki river is our constant companion. The trail follows its course upstream for most of the trek, climbing from subtropical valley floors to glacial terrain above 5,000 metres.
You climb gradually into alpine terrain. For the first time, Manaslu North and Manaslu itself appear on the horizon. You spend the night in Lho Gaon.
👫🏽 Locals in Lho Gaon still wear traditional Tibetan clothing
In Lho Gaon and other villages in the upper Nupri region, you will see locals wearing the chuba, a traditional Tibetan robe. This part of Nepal has strong historical ties to Tibet, and the culture, language and religion reflect that connection clearly.
A shorter day, designed to let your body adjust. You walk through a gorge thick with moss and rhododendrons. There is time to breathe, look around and arrive slowly in Samagaon.
Walk high, sleep low. Today you stay in the area around Samagaon. The day hike takes you to Pungyen Gompa and the glacial lake Birendra Tal, past the monastery destroyed by an avalanche in 1953, all the way to the ice-blue lake at the foot of the glacier.
Another shorter day above the tree line. Past yaks, marmots and high mountain meadows. Samdo is a yak-herding village at the junction of three valleys. On a clear day, you might spot traders from Tibet.
🏘️ Samdo sits at a crossroads of three valleys
The small yak-herding village of Samdo lies where three valleys meet, close to the Tibetan border. Historically, it was a trading point between Nepal and Tibet. On a clear day, you can sometimes see Tibetan traders crossing the high passes above the village.
From Samdo, you follow a wide path, cross the Budhi Gandaki and walk alongside a long mani wall. The trail climbs towards the Larkya glacier. You reach Larkya Phedi with views over a deep gorge. An early night. Tomorrow is the big day.
Today is the day. You start before sunrise and move steadily through ice and stone, past frozen lakes, towards the pass. At the top, prayer flags snap in the wind. You made it. The descent to Bhimtang is long, but the sense of achievement carries you through.
⛰️ The Larkya La Pass is one of the highest trekking passes in Nepal
At 5,106 m / 16,752 ft, the Larkya La is a serious crossing. The trail over the pass involves glacier terrain, frozen lakes and a long exposed ridge. Most groups start the crossing before 5am to avoid afternoon weather. The descent to Bhimtang drops more than 1,300 metres in a single day.
We cross a glacial stream and descend into a forest of rhododendrons and tall pines. With Manaslu still in view, you continue along the Dudh Khola through farmland to Tilje.
It’s the final walking day. Tired, satisfied and with a pack full of memories, we reach the end point of the trek.
You pack your bags for the last time on the trail. From Tilje, a jeep takes you to Besi Sahar. The road follows the Marsyangdi valley and runs alongside the construction works of the hydro power project. Dusty and busy, but the mountains are still with you.
After breakfast, we catch the bus back to Kathmandu. Time to rest, reflect and let it all sink in.
Congrats! You did it! You completed the Manaslu Circuit with the high Larkya La Pass. 🎉
🚙💨 Prefer a jeep?
That's possible. It's faster, a bit more flexible and includes some great stops along the way. Get in touch for details.
Walking & pace
We start the day early. Breakfast is at 7 AM, and we leave the lodge around 8. The morning hours are when the air is freshest and the views are at their clearest.
We stop for lunch towards the end of the morning. Lunch is freshly prepared, warm and unhurried. It can take a while for the food to come out, but that is part of the rhythm. You sit down, drink something, rest your legs and refuel for the afternoon.
In the afternoon, we usually walk a little further to reach the lodge for the night. By around five, we sit down for an early dinner. We order breakfast for the next morning at the same time, so it is ready when we are.
Throughout the day there is plenty of time to drink water, reapply sunscreen, take photos and simply look around. The mountains are not in a hurry, and neither are we.
Route
Altitude
About the Manaslu Circuit Trek
This trek takes you through a remote and restricted mountain region, circling the world’s 8th highest mountain over 13 walking days. You walk an average of 6 hours per day. The itinerary includes two acclimatisation days; one in Samagaon and one in Samdo, to give your body time to adjust before the Larkya La Pass.
The paths vary from wide river valley trails to narrow gorge paths, forest tracks and high alpine terrain above the tree line. The final day over the pass involves glacier terrain and a long descent. Trekking poles and warm layers are essential.
Quick facts
- Route type: loop
- Total distance: approximately 177 km / 110 mi
- Starting point: Machha Khola (930 m / 3,051 ft)
- Highest point: Larkya La Pass (5,106 m / 16,752 ft)
- End point: Besi Sahar (760 m / 2,494 ft)
- Number of trekking days: 10
- Highlights along the way:
- Tatopani hot springs
- Lho Gaon and the first views of Manaslu
- Samagaon and Birendra Tal glacial lake
- Samdo yak village
- Larkya La Pass
- Bhimtang
Practical
Everything you need to know before you go. Below you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions about this trip. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Feel free to reach out.
Altitude sickness can affect anyone. Regardless of age, fitness or experience. Even the most seasoned mountain walkers can struggle with it.
The best prevention is going up slowly. That’s why our itinerary deliberately includes acclimatisation days where needed. This gives your body time to adjust to the altitude.
Drink plenty of water and listen to your body. Headaches, dizziness or nausea are signals to take seriously. Our guides are trained to recognise symptoms and will adjust the programme if necessary.
And if you do get altitude sickness? Descending is the only right choice. No debate, no hesitation. That’s not failure. That’s wisdom.
During the trek you sleep in teahouses: simple mountain lodges with firm mattresses, pillows and blankets against the cold, and dal bhat in the shared dining room.
Expect a twin room, a shared bathroom and cold water. A hot shower or wifi is sometimes possible, usually for a small extra fee. Charging your electronics is always possible, sometimes for a small fee. And then there is the warm fire in the dining room, friendly hospitality and views no hotel can match. This is the Himalaya.
PS: even though pillows and blankets are provided, we recommend bringing your own warm sleeping bag. The nights at altitude get cold, and your own bag makes a real difference. After booking, you’ll receive a detailed packing list that helps you prepare for both the trek and the nights in the lodges.
Yes, always.
The teahouse menu is plant-based by nature and offers plenty of choice. Three warm meals a day are freshly cooked in the teahouse kitchen. Breakfast options include porridge, pancakes, omelette and local bread. For lunch and dinner, expect dal bhat, curry, lentil soup, noodles, dumplings, spring rolls and pasta.
We strongly advise against eating meat on the trail. Ingredients are often carried in on foot and cannot always be kept properly refrigerated. Vegetarian and vegan options are the safer and more reliable choice.
Yes. The Manaslu Conservation Area requires a restricted area permit, which can only be obtained through a registered trekking agency. This permit is included in the price of your trip. We take care of all the paperwork.
The best preparation is simply walking. Preferably several days in a row, with a backpack and elevation gain. In the months before departure, build up to walking days of 5 to 6 hours. Work on your overall fitness with cardio training (running, cycling, swimming) and don’t neglect your legs: squats, lunges and stair training work wonders.
Just as important: break in your hiking boots in time. New boots in Nepal are a guaranteed recipe for blisters. Ideally, start your training 3 to 6 months before departure.
Once your trip is confirmed, you’ll receive all the practical information you need to leave well prepared. This includes visa information, recommended vaccinations and a detailed packing list.
After arriving in Kathmandu, there’s a pre-trip meeting with your guide. We go through the route, the latest weather forecasts and there’s plenty of room for any final questions. We also do a gear check, to make sure you have everything you need for the trip. Missing something, or not sure about your gear? We’ll head out together to sort it. Kathmandu has plenty of good outdoor shops. 😉
Yes. Our individual trips are custom trips, and hiring a porter is optional and can be added to your booking. Most people travelling as a pair share one porter. The porter carries a maximum of 15 kg (33 lbs) in a duffel bag, which we provide on loan for the duration of the trek.
Hiring a porter is more than a practical choice. It is one of the most direct ways to contribute to the local economy. Portering is an important source of income and often the first step into the tourism sector for young people from mountain communities. It is how most of the guides started out. They learn the trekking routes, work with international travellers, pick up English and other languages, and build the experience needed to become a guide themselves.
If you feel uncertain about hiring a porter, there is no need to. At By Mountain People their work is valued, the pay is fair and the opportunity matters. If you would like to add a porter to your trip or have questions, get in touch and we will put together a proposal.
Nepal Trek – Manaslu Circuit with Larkya La, the Remote Trail
- A full loop around Manaslu, the world's eighth highest mountain
- Cross the Larkya La Pass at 5,106 m / 16,752 ft at your own pace
- Deep into restricted Tibetan culture, villages and landscapes few trekkers ever reach
Bird Watching: Annapurna Trek & Jungle Safari
Ask us a questionBird Watching: Annapurna Trek
Ask us a questionWhat our customers have to say
Don't just take our word for it. Discover what travelers before you wrote about traveling with us.
Excited to explore Nepal?
Now let's make it real. Browse our trips or request a quote. And we will get back to you personally ASAP.
Our own team on the ground. Dutch certified. The best of both worlds.
Deliberately small groups. And personal attention before, during and after your trip.
By hiring local guides and porters, you help them earn a good income. Close to home, not overseas.
In a nutshell
The Langtang Panorama Trek to Tserko Ri Peak takes you into the heart of the Langtang Valley in a short amount of time. This is one of the most beautiful trekking regions near Kathmandu. From the city, we drive to the start of the route. From there, we walk through dense forests of pine, bamboo and rhododendron, climbing gradually to the alpine meadows of Kyanjin Gompa, the last Tibetan village in the valley.
The highlight of this trip is the ascent of Tserko Ri (4,985 m / 16,355 ft). A solid climb, but one that pays off twice over. From the top, we have a 360-degree panorama of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. On clear days, you can even see the Tibetan plateau.
Although the Langtang Valley is relatively close to Kathmandu, it is less well known than the Everest and Annapurna regions. And that is exactly what makes it so special. It’s quieter, authentic and surprisingly diverse in landscape.
Note: This is a suggested itinerary. Your trip is custom-made to fit your wishes and experience. Tell us what you’re looking for. We’ll take care of the rest.
Spring (February through May) and autumn (mid-September through November) are the best seasons for this trek. The weather is stable, the skies are clear and the chance of snow on Tserko Ri is at its lowest.
Autumn is slightly busier. Spring is a little quieter, with rhododendron forests in full bloom along the route.
You don’t need to be a top athlete, but this trek does ask something of you. Think 4 to 7 hours of walking per day, several days in a row, at altitude. If you’re used to multi-day mountain hikes, you’ll generally be fine. The day to the summit of Tserko Ri (4,985 m) is the most demanding section: steep and possibly icy.
Not sure? Just get in touch. We’re happy to look at your experience level together and see whether this route suits you.
This is a suggested itinerary. A plan that shows what a trek like this can look like. Not how it has to go.
Want more time to acclimatise? Or prefer an extra day in Kyanjin Gompa? No problem. Want to combine the trip with a few extra days in Kathmandu before or after the trek, or perhaps a visit to another region in Nepal? That’s possible too.
Get in touch and we’ll create a trip that fits you.
What’s included
The price of this trip is per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a twin or double room.
Are you travelling solo or with a larger group? We are happy to make you a custom price proposal. Just send us a message and we’ll get back to you with the options.
Included in this trip
- Pre-trip meeting and briefing in Kathmandu
- All required trekking permits
- Licensed, English speaking trekking guide (salary, transport, accommodation, meals, gear and insurance)
- Private transport from Kathmandu to the trailhead and back
- All teahouse accommodation during your trek
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner during your trek
- 24/7 support from the By Mountain People team throughout your trip
- Booking secured through the Calamity Fund
- Booking secured through VZR Garant
- VAT and tourist service charge
Not included
- Porter service (on request)
- Any hot and cold drinks
- Insurance covering rescue and evacuation
- Tips
- All other expenses not listed under 'Included'
Day-to-day program
This is an example itinerary. It shows you how a trip like this is typically structured, day by day. Because we tailor every journey to your wishes and experience, the exact program may vary.
Note: walking times are indicative and depend on the pace of the group.
The day before the trek begins. You meet your guide, go through the itinerary and check your gear. Missing something? Your guide will take you to the outdoor shops nearby to get everything sorted.
Got everything you need? Take the rest of the day to recover from the jetlag, explore Thamel at your own pace or venture a little further into the city.
Early in the morning we board the bus to Syabrubesi, the starting point of the trek. After arriving and having lunch, we take our first steps towards Bamboo. Along the way, the landscape gradually opens up and the Himalaya reveals itself. We spend our first night in the mountains in Bamboo, a simple Tamang village surrounded by nothing but nature.
🚙💨 Prefer a jeep?
That's possible. It's faster, a bit more flexible and includes some great stops along the way. Get in touch for details.
After an early breakfast beside the rushing river, we set off on a long but rewarding day. The trail follows the Langtang Khola upstream through lush forest. We walk mostly in the shade, which makes the climbing much more pleasant. Along the way, there’s a good chance of spotting monkeys, and various bird species, and possibly wild honey in autumn. We reach Ghoda Tabela early in the afternoon, with plenty of time to rest and explore the surroundings.
From 3,000 metres, the first views of the surrounding peaks start to open up. The trail is relatively peaceful, though fully in the sun. Sunscreen and sunglasses are not a luxury here. Along the way, we pass more and more Tibetan villages, with small restaurants and locals in traditional dress. The Langtang Valley reveals itself here for the first time.
⚠️ The 2015 earthquake
In April 2015, a 7.8 magnitude earthquake triggered a massive avalanche from Langtang Lirung. It buried the entire village under millions of tons of rock and ice. More than 240 people lost their lives here, both locals and trekkers. When you walk through Langtang Village today, you're not walking through the original village. The community rebuilt on a new site, slightly higher up the valley and away from the couloir that channelled the destruction in 2015. A more sheltered spot. Not the old place. The mani wall near the trail carries the names of everyone who died here. Take a moment when you pass it.
Today is an easier day, and that will probably feel good after the previous stages. After breakfast, we walk to Kyanjin Gompa in around four hours, the last village in the valley. After lunch, we take a short walk to explore the village. Kyanjin Gompa is a remarkable place: an ancient monastery, surrounded by a glacier and high mountain peaks.
🧀 Cheese factory
In 1955, Swiss dairy expert Werner Schulthess came all the way to Kyanjin Gompa to set up Nepal's first commercial cheese factory. At nearly 3,900 metres above sea level. The milk comes from female yaks, known locally as naks, grazing the high pastures around the village. The cheese is hard, nutty and rich. You can visit the factory, watch the process up close, and buy a block to take with you. The best snack for the walk back down.
Active rest: a few ideas for the afternoon
Today is a short day. That doesn’t mean lying still. Walking up to a higher point during the day, then back to the lodge for the night, helps your body adjust to the altitude. Below you’ll find a few options for the afternoon. Pick what suits you, or take it easy at the lodge.
Visit Kyanjin Monastery
The monastery is the spiritual heart of the valley. It is around 300 years old, and the thangka paintings on the walls were brought here from Tibet some 400 years ago. Villagers, not monks, take turns opening and maintaining it. Step inside in the early morning, when butter lamps are still burning. And walk around it clockwise, as the locals do.
Hike Kyanjin Ri
The classic half-day hike from the village. You climb to 4,773 m / 15,659 ft and look out over Langtang Lirung, Dorje Lakpa, and the entire valley below. The trail is steep and short. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Shishapangma across the Tibetan border.
Hike to the glacier
A flatter walk north of the village, along the moraine of the Langtang Lirung glacier. No big climb, just you and the ice. Every now and then, you can hear the glacier crack and shift beneath the surface. A reminder that this landscape is alive.
An early start today. We set off around 5:00 AM towards the summit, with breakfast packed in our bags. The climb is demanding: over 1,200 metres of elevation gain in around five hours. But at the top, a 360-degree panorama awaits over the Langtang peaks, Dorje Lakpa, Shishapangma and on clear days even the Tibetan plateau. After a well-earned rest on the summit, we descend back to Kyanjin Gompa.
After an early breakfast beside the rushing river, we set off on a long but rewarding day. The trail follows the Langtang Khola upstream through lush forest. We walk mostly in the shade, which makes the climbing much more pleasant. Along the way, there’s a good chance of spotting monkeys, and various bird species, and possibly wild honey in autumn. We reach Ghoda Tabela early in the afternoon, with plenty of time to rest and explore the surroundings.
This is the last day of walking. We descend further to Syabrubesi, with a well-earned lunch along the way. We’ve completed a beautiful multi-day trek through the Himalaya, with the cherry on top being the summit of Tserko Ri.
🚙💨 Return to Kathmandu
Prefer to take an evening jeep back to Kathmandu? That's possible. Get in touch for details.
After breakfast, we catch the bus back to Kathmandu.
Walking & pace
We usually start the day early. Breakfast is at 7 AM, and we leave the lodge around 8. The morning hours are when the air is freshest and the views are at their clearest.
We stop for lunch towards the end of the morning. Lunch is freshly prepared, warm and unhurried. It can take a while for the food to come out, but that is part of the rhythm. You sit down, drink something, rest your legs and refuel for the afternoon.
In the afternoon, we usually walk a little further to reach the lodge for the night. By around five, we sit down for an early dinner. We order breakfast for the next morning at the same time, so it is ready when we are.
Throughout the day there is plenty of time to drink water, reapply sunscreen, take photos and simply look around. The mountains are not in a hurry, and neither are we.
Route
Altitude
About this trip
This trek takes you through the foothills of the Langtang range. You walk an average of 5 to 6 hours per day, without high passes along the way. We have built no formal rest days, but 2 lighter walking days. The paths are mostly well-maintained mountain paths. Expect stone steps, rocky sections and possible snow or ice on the higher sections.
Quick facts
- Route type: out-and-back
- Total distance: approximately 80 km / 50 mi
- Starting point: Syabrubesi (1,462 m / 4,797 ft)
- Highest point: Tserko Ri (4,985 m / 16,355 ft)
- End point: Syabrubesi (1,462 m / 4,797 ft)
- Number of trekking days: 7
- Highlights along the way:
- Langtang Village
- Kyanjin Gompa
- Tserko Ri
Practical
Everything you need to know before you go. Below you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions about this trip. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Feel free to reach out.
Altitude sickness can affect anyone. Regardless of age, fitness or experience. Even the most seasoned mountain walkers can struggle with it.
The best prevention is going up slowly. That’s why our itinerary deliberately includes acclimatisation days where needed. This gives your body time to adjust to the altitude.
Drink plenty of water and listen to your body. Headaches, dizziness or nausea are signals to take seriously. Our guides are trained to recognise symptoms and will adjust the programme if necessary.
And if you do get altitude sickness? Descending is the only right choice. No debate, no hesitation. That’s not failure. That’s wisdom.
During the trek you sleep in teahouses: simple mountain lodges with firm mattresses, pillows and blankets against the cold, and dal bhat in the shared dining room.
Expect a twin room, a shared bathroom and cold water. A hot shower or wifi is sometimes possible, usually for a small extra fee. Charging your electronics is always possible, sometimes for a small fee. And then there is the warm fire in the dining room, friendly hospitality and views no hotel can match. This is the Himalaya.
PS: even though pillows and blankets are provided, we recommend bringing your own warm sleeping bag. The nights at altitude get cold, and your own bag makes a real difference. After booking, you’ll receive a detailed packing list that helps you prepare for both the trek and the nights in the lodges.
Yes, always.
The teahouse menu is plant-based by nature and offers plenty of choice. Three warm meals a day are freshly cooked in the teahouse kitchen. Breakfast options include porridge, pancakes, omelette and local bread. For lunch and dinner, expect dal bhat, curry, lentil soup, noodles, dumplings, spring rolls and pasta.
We strongly advise against eating meat on the trail. Ingredients are often carried in on foot and cannot always be kept properly refrigerated. Vegetarian and vegan options are the safer and more reliable choice.
Yes. Our individual trips are custom trips, and hiring a porter is optional and can be added to your booking. Most people travelling as a pair share one porter. The porter carries a maximum of 15 kg (33 lbs) in a duffel bag, which we provide on loan for the duration of the trek.
Hiring a porter is more than a practical choice. It is one of the most direct ways to contribute to the local economy. Portering is an important source of income and often the first step into the tourism sector for young people from mountain communities. It is how most of the guides started out. They learn the trekking routes, work with international travellers, pick up English and other languages, and build the experience needed to become a guide themselves.
If you feel uncertain about hiring a porter, there is no need to. At By Mountain People their work is valued, the pay is fair and the opportunity matters. If you would like to add a porter to your trip or have questions, get in touch and we will put together a proposal.
The best preparation is simply walking. Preferably several days in a row, with a backpack and elevation gain. In the months before departure, build up to walking days of 5 to 6 hours. Work on your overall fitness with cardio training (running, cycling, swimming) and don’t neglect your legs: squats, lunges and stair training work wonders.
Just as important: break in your hiking boots in time. New boots in Nepal are a guaranteed recipe for blisters. Ideally, start your training 3 to 6 months before departure.
Once your booking is confirmed, you’ll receive all the practical information you need to leave well prepared. This includes visa information, recommended vaccinations and a detailed packing list.
After arriving in Kathmandu, there’s a pre-trip meeting with your guide. We go through the route, the latest weather forecasts and there’s plenty of room for any final questions. We also do a gear check, to make sure you have everything you need for the trip. Missing something, or not sure about your gear? We’ll head out together to sort it. Kathmandu has plenty of good outdoor shops. 😉
Nepal Trek – Tserko Ri Peak, the Langtang Panorama Viewpoint
- From Kathmandu quickly into the mountains
- A 360-degree panorama from the summit of Tserko Ri
- Tibetan Buddhist villages, gompas and prayer flags
Bird Watching: Annapurna Trek & Jungle Safari
Ask us a questionBird Watching: Annapurna Trek
Ask us a questionWhat our customers have to say
Don't just take our word for it. Discover what travelers before you wrote about traveling with us.
Excited to explore Nepal?
Now let's make it real. Browse our trips or request a quote. And we will get back to you personally ASAP.
Our own team on the ground. Dutch certified. The best of both worlds.
Deliberately small groups. And personal attention before, during and after your trip.
By hiring local guides and porters, you help them earn a good income. Close to home, not overseas.
In a nutshell
During the Khopra Danda Trek you walk through the quiet part of the Annapurna region, far from the busy trails that most trekkers follow. Over 12 days, we walk through traditional Gurung villages, dense rhododendron forests and open alpine ridgelines to the Khopra Danda ridge. This is a place where the mountains fill the horizon. 👀
From Pokhara, a short drive brings us to Kande, where the trek begins. The trail climbs through Landruk, Ghandruk and Tadapani before entering quieter terrain towards Dobato and Dhankarka. The higher we climb, the fewer trekkers we meet. By the time we reach Khopra Danda at 3,660 m / 12,008 ft, the views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I and Manaslu stretch out in every direction.
We spend two nights on the ridge. On the rest day, there is an optional hike to Khayer Lake at 4,500 m / 14,763 ft. It’s a sacred glacial lake revered by both Hindus and Buddhists, and one of the most remote and rewarding highlights of the entire route.
The descent takes us through Chitre to Tatopani, where natural hot springs(!) sit beside the river. Then a short drive brings us back to Pokhara.
Note: This is a suggested itinerary. Your trip is custom-made to fit your wishes and experience. Tell us what your preferences are. We’ll draft a personalised day-to-day program.
Spring (February through May) and autumn (September through November) are the best seasons for this trek. The weather is stable, the skies are clear and the chance of snow at Khopra Danda is at its lowest.
Autumn is slightly busier. Spring is a little quieter, with rhododendron forests in full bloom along the route.
You don’t need to be a top athlete, but this trek does ask something of you. Think 5 to 7 hours of walking per day, several days in a row, at altitude. If you’re used to multi-day mountain hikes, you’ll generally be fine. The optional hike to Khayer Lake (4,600 m / 15,090 ft) is the most demanding section.
Not sure? Just get in touch. We’re happy to look at your experience level together and see whether this route suits you.
Altitude sickness can affect anyone. Regardless of age, fitness or experience. Even the most seasoned mountain walkers can struggle with it.
The best prevention is ascending slowly. That’s why you walk high and sleep low(er). This gives your body time to adjust to the altitude.
Drink plenty of water and listen to your body. Headaches, dizziness or nausea are signals to take seriously. Our guides are trained to recognise symptoms and will adjust the programme if necessary.
And if you do get altitude sickness? Descending is the only right choice. No debate, no hesitation. That’s not failure. That’s wisdom.
This is a suggested itinerary. A plan that shows what a trek like this can look like. Not how it has to go.
Get in touch and we’ll create a trek that fits your level of fitness and experience.
What’s included
The price of the Khopra Danda Trek is per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a twin or double room.
Are you travelling solo or with a larger group? We are happy to make you a custom price proposal. Just send us a message and we’ll get back to you with the options.
Included in this trip
- Pre-trip meeting and gear check in Kathmandu
- Bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara
- Hotel accommodation in Pokhara (including breakfast) – 1 night before the trek
- All required trekking permits
- Licensed, English speaking trekking guide (salary, transport, accommodation, meals, gear and insurance)
- Private transport from Pokhara to the trailhead and back
- All teahouse accommodation during your trek
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner during your trek
- 24/7 support from the By Mountain People team throughout your trip
- Booking secured through the Calamity Fund
- Booking secured through VZR Garant
- VAT and tourist service charge
Not included
- Porter (on request)
- Any hot and cold drinks
- Insurance covering rescue and evacuation
- Tips
- All other expenses not listed under 'Included'
Day-to-day program
This is an example itinerary. It shows you how our trek to Khopra Danda is typically structured, day by day. Because we tailor every journey to your wishes and experience, the exact program may vary.
Note: walking times are indicative and depend on your walking pace.
The day before the trek begins. You meet your guide, go through the itinerary and check your gear. Missing something? Your guide will take you to the outdoor shops nearby to get everything sorted.
Got everything you need? Take the rest of the day to recover from the jetlag, explore Thamel at your own pace or venture a little further into the city.
An early start. We board the tourist bus to Pokhara. The ride takes about 6 hours through hills, river valleys and terraced farmland.
🚙💨 Prefer a private vehicle or domestic flight?
That's possible. It's faster and a bit more comfortable and flexible. Get in touch for details.
A short drive from Pokhara takes us to Kande, where the trek begins. 🙌
The trail descends through terraced fields and rhododendron forest to the Gurung village of Landruk. The first steps. And … with good weather, the mountains appear!
A shorter day through terraced hillsides and Gurung villages. Ghandruk is one of the largest Gurung settlements in Nepal. With stone houses, narrow alleys and Annapurna South rising directly above. It’s time to explore the village and rest before the climb ahead.
We climb through dense oak and rhododendron forest, with Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre growing closer with every step. Tadapani sits on a ridge with wide views in all directions.
We leave the forest behind and climb into quieter, more open terrain. Moss-covered rocks, silent paths and the first real sense of being far from the crowds. Dobato is basic and beautiful.
A shorter day through alpine meadows and rocky terrain. The trail is quiet here. Yaks, wind and mountain views. Dhankarka is a small, simple settlement where the pace slows right down.
The final climb to Khopra Danda. The ridge opens up completely: Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I and Manaslu all visible at once. We spend two nights here.
Today the choice is yours. Rest at the lodge, or hike up to the sacred Khayer Lake at 4,600 m / 15,092 ft. It’s a full day of walking with no facilities along the way, so we bring food and water.
Active rest
Today is built for acclimatisation. That doesn’t mean lying still. Walking up to a higher point during the day, then back to the lodge for the night, helps your body adjust to the altitude.
Relax at the lodge
There are very few places in the world where you can sit outside with a book and have Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre as your backdrop. No village, no noise. Just a ridge, a teahouse, and all the time in the world.
Hike to Khayer Lake
At 4,600 m / 15,092 ft, Khayer Lake sits higher than Annapurna Base Camp and is almost always deserted. The lake is sacred to Hindus and Buddhists. Once a year, during the Janai Purnima festival, pilgrims trek up here to pray and bathe in the glacial water. Next to the lake stands the Khayer Barahi temple. Keep your eyes open for rare birds on the way up.
We leave the ridge and begin the descent. The landscape shifts back to forest and terraced hillsides. Chitre is a quiet village with warm teahouses and the first signs of lower altitude.
A long descent to Tatopani, a village known for its natural hot springs beside the Kali Gandaki river. After days at altitude, the warm water is exactly what the legs need.
We board our vehicle and drive back to Pokhara. The trek is done. 🎉
You walked through the quiet heart of the Annapurna region, stood on one of its finest ridges and earned every step.
Walking & pace
We usually start the day early. Breakfast is at 7 AM, and we leave the lodge around 8. The morning hours are when the air is freshest and the views are at their clearest.
We stop for lunch towards the end of the morning. Lunch is freshly prepared, warm and unhurried. It can take a while for the food to come out, but that is part of the rhythm. You sit down, drink something, rest your legs and refuel for the afternoon.
In the afternoon, we usually walk a little further to reach the lodge for the night. By around five, we sit down for an early dinner. We order breakfast for the next morning at the same time, so it is ready when we are.
Throughout the day there is plenty of time to drink water, reapply sunscreen, take photos and simply look around. The mountains are not in a hurry, and neither are we.
Route
Altitude
More information
The Khopra Danda Trek takes you through the southern Annapurna region over 10 trekking days. We walk an average of 4 to 5 hours per day on well-maintained mountain trails. The optional hike to Khayer Lake is the longest day at around 8 hours. There are no high passes on this route. One rest day is built into the itinerary at Khopra Danda.
The terrain varies from stone staircases and forest paths in the lower sections to open ridgelines and alpine meadows higher up. No technical sections, no glacier crossings.
Quick facts
- Route type: point to point
- Starting point: Kande (approx. 1,770 m / 5,807 ft)
- Highest point on main route: Khopra Danda (3,660 m / 12,008 ft)
- Highest point with Khayer Lake: 4,500 m / 14,763 ft
- End point: Tatopani (1,190 m / 3,904 ft)
- Number of trekking days: 10
- Highlights along the way:
- Landruk, Ghandruk and Gurung culture
- Tadapani ridge
- Khopra Danda viewpoint
- Khayer Lake
- Tatopani hot springs
Practical
Everything you need to know before you go. Below you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions about the trek to Khopra Danda. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Feel free to reach out.
Once your Khopra Danda Trek is confirmed, you’ll receive all the practical information you need to leave well prepared. This includes visa information, recommended vaccinations and a detailed packing list.
After arriving in Kathmandu, there’s a pre-trip meeting with your guide. We go through the route, the latest weather forecasts and there’s plenty of room for any final questions. We also do a gear check, to make sure you have everything you need for the trip. Missing something, or not sure about your gear? We’ll head out together to sort it. Kathmandu has plenty of good outdoor shops. 😉
The best preparation is simply walking. Preferably several days in a row, with a backpack and elevation gain. In the months before departure, build up to walking days of 5 to 6 hours. Work on your overall fitness with cardio training (running, cycling, swimming) and don’t neglect your legs: squats, lunges and stair training work wonders.
Just as important: break in your hiking boots in time. New boots in Nepal are a guaranteed recipe for blisters. Ideally, start your training 3 to 6 months before departure.
During the trek you sleep in teahouses: simple mountain lodges with firm mattresses, pillows and blankets against the cold, and dal bhat in the shared dining room.
Expect a twin room, a shared bathroom and cold water. A hot shower or wifi is sometimes possible, usually for a small extra fee. Charging your electronics is always possible, sometimes for a small fee. And then there is the warm fire in the dining room, friendly hospitality and views no hotel can match. This is the Himalaya.
PS: even though pillows and blankets are provided, we recommend bringing your own warm sleeping bag. The nights at altitude get cold, and your own bag makes a real difference. After booking, you’ll receive a detailed packing list that helps you prepare for both the trek and the nights in the lodges.
Yes, always.
The teahouse menu is plant-based by nature and offers plenty of choice. Three warm meals a day are freshly cooked in the teahouse kitchen. Breakfast options include porridge, pancakes, omelette and local bread. For lunch and dinner, expect dal bhat, curry, lentil soup, noodles, dumplings, spring rolls and pasta.
We strongly advise against eating meat on the trail. Ingredients are often carried in on foot and cannot always be kept properly refrigerated. Vegetarian and vegan options are the safer and more reliable choice.
Yes. Our individual trips are custom trips, and hiring a porter is optional and can be added to your booking. Most people travelling as a pair share one porter. The porter carries a maximum of 15 kg (33 lbs) in a duffel bag, which we provide on loan for the duration of the trek.
Hiring a porter is more than a practical choice. It is one of the most direct ways to contribute to the local economy. Portering is an important source of income and often the first step into the tourism sector for young people from mountain communities. It is how most of the guides started out. They learn the trekking routes, work with international travellers, pick up English and other languages, and build the experience needed to become a guide themselves.
If you feel uncertain about hiring a porter, there is no need to. At By Mountain People their work is valued, the pay is fair and the opportunity matters. If you would like to add a porter to your trip or have questions, get in touch and we will put together a proposal.
Nepal Trek – Khopra Danda, the Quiet Annapurna Trail
- A route through a little-visited part of the Annapurna region
- Views of 3 eight-thousanders: Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I and Manaslu
- With an optional day hike to the remote Khayer Lake
Bird Watching: Annapurna Trek & Jungle Safari
Ask us a questionBird Watching: Annapurna Trek
Ask us a questionWhat our customers have to say
Don't just take our word for it. Discover what travelers before you wrote about traveling with us.
Excited to explore Nepal?
Now let's make it real. Browse our trips or request a quote. And we will get back to you personally ASAP.
Our own team on the ground. Dutch certified. The best of both worlds.
Deliberately small groups. And personal attention before, during and after your trip.
By hiring local guides and porters, you help them earn a good income. Close to home, not overseas.
In a nutshell
The Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake takes you through one of Nepal’s most varied trekking regions. Over 15 days, the landscape shifts completely: from subtropical river valleys near Chamje to the vast, wind-swept highlands north of the Annapurna massif. Every day looks different from the one before.
From Chamje, we follow the Marsyangdi River upstream through forests, gorges and stone villages with Tibetan roots. The route climbs gradually. Acclimatisation days in Manang give your body time to adjust before the high section begins.
Then comes the detour that sets this trek apart. We leave the main circuit and climb to Tilicho Lake at 4,920 m / 16,138 ft. Ice-blue water, towering rock walls and a silence that stays with you. Most trekkers on the circuit never make it here.
From there, we return to the main route and face the big one: Thorong La Pass at 5,416 m / 17,769 ft, one of the highest trekking passes in the world. We start before sunrise, move slowly and steadily, and reach the summit as prayer flags snap in the wind. The descent to Muktinath is its own reward.
We end in Pokhara, with the Annapurnas reflected in Phewa Lake and a bag full of memories.
Note: This is a suggested itinerary. Your trip is custom-made to fit your wishes and experience. Tell us what your preferences. And we’ll draft a personalised day-to-day program.
Spring (February through April) and autumn (mid-September through November) are the best seasons for this trek. The weather is stable, the skies are clear and the chance of snow at Thorong La Pass is at its lowest.
Autumn is slightly busier. Spring is a little quieter, with rhododendron forests in full bloom along the route.
You don’t need to be a top athlete, but this trek does ask something of you. Think 4 to 7 hours of walking per day, several days in a row, at altitude. If you’re used to multi-day mountain hikes, you’ll generally be fine. The hike to Tilicho Lake (4,920 m / 16,141 ft) and the trek over the Thorong La Pass (5,416 m / 17,770 ft) are the most demanding sections.
Not sure? Just get in touch. We’re happy to look at your experience level together and see whether this route suits you.
This is a suggested itinerary. A plan that shows what a trek like this can look like. Not how it has to go.
Get in touch and we’ll create a trek that fits your level of fitness and experience.
Altitude sickness can affect anyone. Regardless of age, fitness or experience. Even the most seasoned mountain walkers can struggle with it.
The best prevention is ascending slowly. That’s why you never sleep more than 500 metres higher than the night before. This gives your body time to adjust to the altitude.
Drink plenty of water and listen to your body. Headaches, dizziness or nausea are signals to take seriously. Our guides are trained to recognise symptoms and will adjust the programme if necessary.
And if you do get altitude sickness? Descending is the only right choice. No debate, no hesitation. That’s not failure. That’s wisdom.
Yes. All our Individual Trips are suggested routes, not fixed schedules.
Get in touch and we will put together a personalised proposal that fits your plans.
🌳 Four climate zones in one trek
From the subtropical river valleys below 2,000 m to the high-altitude desert above 4,000 m, the Annapurna Circuit passes through four distinct climate zones in a single journey. Subtropical forest gives way to temperate woodland, then alpine meadows, then the vast wind-swept plateau north of the Annapurna range, where the landscape shifts completely and feels closer to Tibet than Nepal.
What’s included
The price of this trip is per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a twin or double room.
Are you travelling solo or with a larger group? We are happy to make you a custom price proposal. Just send us a message and we’ll get back to you with the options.
Included in this trip
- Pre-trip meeting and briefing in Kathmandu
- All required trekking permits
- Licensed English speaking trekking guide (salary, transport, accommodation, meals, gear and insurance)
- Private transport from Kathmandu to the trailhead
- All teahouse accommodation during the trek – 13 nights
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner during the trek
- Private transport from the trek endpoint to Pokhara
- 24/7 support from the By Mountain People team throughout your trip
- Booking secured through the Calamity Fund
- Booking secured through VZR Garant
- VAT and tourist service charge
Not included
- Porter service (on request)
- Any hot and cold drinks
- Insurance covering rescue and evacuation
- Tips
- All other expenses not listed under 'Included'
Day-to-day program
This is an example itinerary. It shows you how the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake is typically structured, day by day. Because we tailor every journey to your wishes and experience, the exact program may vary.
Note: walking times are indicative and depend on your walking pace.
The day before the trek begins. You meet your guide, go through the itinerary and check your gear. Missing something? Your guide will take you to the outdoor shops nearby to get everything sorted.
Got everything you need? Take the rest of the day to recover from the jetlag, explore Thamel at your own pace or venture a little further into the city.
In the morning, we board our jeep to Chamje (1,410 m / 4,626 ft), the starting point of our trekking. The drive takes about 7 to 8 hours. Gradually, the scenery changes: from the bustle of the city to rolling hills, rice terraces, and more rugged nature.
The adventure has begun! We start the trek with a steady climb along the wild Marsyangdi River. After passing through Tal and Dharapani, where the Manaslu and Annapurna routes converge, we hike onward to Bagarchhap (2,160 m / 7,087 ft). A quiet mountain village surrounded by apple trees, dal bhat, and views of snow-capped peaks.
Today, we climb through forests and along the river toward Chame (2,650 m / 8,694 ft). Along the way, we can hear the sound of yak bells, see Annapurna II suddenly loom in the distance, and meet locals with Tibetan roots. In Chame, a small hot spring awaits our tired legs.
💦 Visit the hot spring
Near the riverside of Chame, surrounded by pine trees, there are small natural hot springs. They're basic and small, and mostly quiet. If the water level is high enough, it's a nice place to visit and relax.
We start early, following a rugged path through a narrow valley filled with cliffs, forests, and rivers. Crossing suspension bridges, we ascend to Upper Pisang (3,300 m / 10,827 ft), a quiet mountain village of stone houses, a monastery, and magical mountain views.
🏘️ Lower Pisang versus Upper Pisang
Most trekkers follow the lower trail and pass straight through. By climbing to Upper Pisang, you'll get a completely different experience. The two villages lie on the same mountain, but with a height difference of nearly 200 metres. Stone houses, a monastery, and views of Annapurna II. The lower village has guesthouses and a teahouse. The upper village has silence.
Explore Pisang
Pisang is a beautiful place to explore. From your teahouse it’s a small hike to the Monastery. Well worth the visit!
Visit the monastery
The monastery in Upper Pisang dates back around 250 years and is one of the oldest in the Annapurna region. It sits above the village on a ridge, with views that make the climb up worth every step. Inside, butter lamps flicker in front of ancient thangkas. Time moves differently up here.
We hike through the dry, high-altitude Manang district today. This region lies in the rain shadow of the Annapurna massif, which provides clear weather and endless views. We follow one of two routes to Manang (3,540 m / 11,614 ft), situated deep within the impressive high mountains.
Explore Manang
Manang is the capital of the region, so there’s a lot to explore. Want to go for a small walk? Here are some ideas.
Visit the health clinic
The Himalayan Rescue Association (HRA) runs a clinic in Manang where altitude sickness is the main topic. Every afternoon, trekkers can attend a free talk on the symptoms of AMS, what to do when things go wrong, and how to acclimatise safely. Before you head higher, this is worth an hour of your time.
Watch a movie
Manang has a cinema. A real one. Every evening, a trekking film is shown in a small room with wooden benches. It started as a way to keep trekkers entertained on their acclimatisation day. Today it is a small institution on the circuit. Bring popcorn. Or just a snicker.
Send a postcard
Manang has its own post office. At 3,540 m / 11,614 ft, it is one of the highest post offices in the world. You can send a postcard from here to anywhere on the planet. Proof that you were here, at altitude, before the big pass
We take it easy today. No major elevation gain, but plenty of time to acclimatize. If you like, we can go for a short hike. Or, just kick-back and relax in the village.
Day hike
Going for a hike today? These are 2 great options.
Hike to Gangapurna Lake
On your acclimatisation day in Manang, there is an optional hike up to Gangapurna Lake. It's located at an altitude of approximately 3,700 meters near the village of Manang.
Hike to Ice Lake
Or, choose the more challenging hike to Ice Lake at around 4,600 m / 15,092 ft. It takes about three to four hours to climb and rewards you with a glacial lake and a panorama over the entire Manang Valley.
After our rest day in Manang, we push on toward Tilicho Lake. We pass the quiet village of Khangsar and climb along rugged slopes. By the end of the day, we reach Shree Kharka: cold, silent, and pure. Time to recharge.
We trek higher into the mountains, passing a deserted monastery and crossing a steep ridge. After an exciting descent, we reach Tilicho Base Camp (4,200 m / 13,780 ft). Raw, silent, and impressive.
Before you crawl into your sleeping bag, we step outside. At 4,150 m / 13,615 ft, far from any city light, the sky above Tilicho Base Camp is vast and uninterrupted. Stars from one ridge to the next … 🤩
🏔️ The last teahouse
Tilicho Base Camp sits at 4,150 m / 13,615 ft and serves as the overnight stop before the final climb to the lake. There are no teahouses beyond this point, and no accommodation at the lake itself. The base camp exists because the lake is too exposed and too cold to sleep near. What you find here is basic and raw: a few lodges, yak dung fires in the dining room, and a sky full of stars.
We set off early, as the wind picks up quickly here. In about 3 to 4 hours, we climb to Tilicho Lake (4,920 m / 16,141 ft). Ice-blue water surrounded by vast emptiness. Magic. Afterward, we return to Base Camp, where we soak it all in.
🙏🏽 The holy lake
Hindus believe that Tilicho Lake is the ancient Kak Bhusundi Lake, mentioned in the epic Ramayana. The lake is considered sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists, and thousands of pilgrims travel here each year. At 4 km long and 1.2 km wide, it is still the lake with the longest diameter at this altitude in the world. Swimming is not allowed. The water is sacred and freezing.
We leave Tilicho and return to the Annapurna route. The path ascends gradually, and the landscape becomes more rugged. Less green, more stone. In the afternoon, we reach Yak Kharka (4,000 m / 13,123 ft), a quiet place amidst yaks, wind, and mountain peaks.
We continue our slow ascent. The air gets thinner, and every step feels heavier. We stop for lunch at Thorong Phedi (4,450 m / 14,600 ft) before climbing further to High Camp (4,850 m / 15,192 ft). Less sleep, perhaps, but a head start on the pass.
Today is the day: we cross the Thorong La (5,416 m / 17,770 ft). Up early, moving slowly but steadily. Every step counts. At the summit, the prayer flags flutter in the wind. We made it!
Afterward, we descend to Muktinath: warm water, more air, and a shared sense of victory.
🙏🏽 Holy Muktinath
Muktinath is one of the only sacred sites in the world revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. For Hindus, it is one of the most important temples of Lord Vishnu and the only one of the 108 Divya Desams located outside India. The outer courtyard has 108 bull-faced water spouts. Pilgrims bathe under each one, the water flows straight off the Himalayas and is shockingly cold. Buddhists know the site as Chumig Gyatsa, meaning "Hundred Waters," and believe that Guru Rinpoche meditated here on his way to Tibet.
Today, we trek down to Kagbeni and then follow the Kali Gandaki river to Jomsom. This is a large town with many facilities. It is also headquarter and official town for the Mustang district, where all the district government offices are present.
We rise early for the jeep ride to Pokhara. Heading toward warmer air, soft beds, and the silhouette of the Annapurnas reflected in the lake. We’ve reached the Tilicho Lake, and we’ve crossed the Thorong La pass!
Cheers to this beautiful adventure and the memories we’ve made. 😁
Walking & pace
We usually start the day early. Breakfast is at 7 AM, and we leave the lodge around 8. The morning hours are when the air is freshest and the views are at their clearest.
We stop for lunch towards the end of the morning. Lunch is freshly prepared, warm and unhurried. It can take a while for the food to come out, but that is part of the rhythm. You sit down, drink something, rest your legs and refuel for the afternoon.
In the afternoon, we usually walk a little further to reach the lodge for the night. By around five, we sit down for an early dinner. We order breakfast for the next morning at the same time, so it is ready when we are.
Throughout the day there is plenty of time to drink water, reapply sunscreen, take photos and simply look around. The mountains are not in a hurry, and neither are we.
Route
Altitude
More information
During the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake, we walk through the heart of the Annapurna region over 13 trekking days, including the detour to Tilicho Lake and the crossing of Thorong La Pass. We walk an average of 6 hours per day. The acclimatisation day in Manang gives our bodies time to adjust before the high section begins. The steepest day is the crossing of Thorong La, which requires an early start and a long descent to Muktinath on the other side.
The trails vary from well-maintained valley paths and stone staircases to exposed high-altitude terrain above 4,000 m. The section to Tilicho Lake and the pass crossing are the most demanding parts of the route and involve crossing a landslide.
Quick facts
- Route type: loop with out and back detour to Tilicho Lake
- Total distance: approximately 175 km /109 mi
- Starting point: Chamje (1,410 m / 4,626 ft)
- Highest point: Thorong La Pass (5,416 m / 17,769 ft)
- End point: Jomsom (2,720 m / 8,924 ft)
- Number of trekking days: 13
- Number of rest days: 1
- Highlights along the way:
- Upper Pisang Monastery
- Manang
- Thorong La Pass
- Muktinathi
- Kagbeni
Practical
Everything you need to know before you go. Below you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions about the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Feel free to reach out.
The best preparation is simply walking. Preferably several days in a row, with a backpack and elevation gain. In the months before departure, build up to walking days of 5 to 6 hours. Work on your overall fitness with cardio training (running, cycling, swimming) and don’t neglect your legs: squats, lunges and stair training work wonders.
Just as important: break in your hiking boots in time. New boots in Nepal are a guaranteed recipe for blisters. Ideally, start your training 3 to 6 months before departure.
Once your trip is confirmed, you’ll receive all the practical information you need to leave well prepared. This includes visa information, recommended vaccinations and a detailed packing list.
After arriving in Kathmandu, there’s a pre-trip meeting with your guide. We go through the route, the latest weather forecasts and there’s plenty of room for any final questions. We also do a gear check, to make sure you have everything you need for the trip. Missing something, or not sure about your gear? We’ll head out together to sort it. Kathmandu has plenty of good outdoor shops. 😉
During the trek you sleep in teahouses: simple mountain lodges with firm mattresses, pillows and blankets against the cold, and dal bhat in the shared dining room.
Expect a twin room, a shared bathroom and cold water. A hot shower or wifi is sometimes possible, usually for a small extra fee. Charging your electronics is always possible, sometimes for a small fee. And then there is the warm fire in the dining room, friendly hospitality and views no hotel can match. This is the Himalaya.
PS: even though pillows and blankets are provided, we recommend bringing your own warm sleeping bag. The nights at altitude get cold, and your own bag makes a real difference. After booking, you’ll receive a detailed packing list that helps you prepare for both the trek and the nights in the lodges.
Yes, always.
The teahouse menu is plant-based by nature and offers plenty of choice. Three warm meals a day are freshly cooked in the teahouse kitchen. Breakfast options include porridge, pancakes, omelette and local bread. For lunch and dinner, expect dal bhat, curry, lentil soup, noodles, dumplings, spring rolls and pasta.
We strongly advise against eating meat on the trail. Ingredients are often carried in on foot and cannot always be kept properly refrigerated. Vegetarian and vegan options are the safer and more reliable choice.
Yes. Our individual trips are custom trips, and hiring a porter is optional and can be added to your booking. Most people travelling as a pair share one porter. The porter carries a maximum of 15 kg (33 lbs) in a duffel bag, which we provide on loan for the duration of the trek.
Hiring a porter is more than a practical choice. It is one of the most direct ways to contribute to the local economy. Portering is an important source of income and often the first step into the tourism sector for young people from mountain communities. It is how most of the guides started out. They learn the trekking routes, work with international travellers, pick up English and other languages, and build the experience needed to become a guide themselves.
If you feel uncertain about hiring a porter, there is no need to. At By Mountain People their work is valued, the pay is fair and the opportunity matters. If you would like to add a porter to your trip or have questions, get in touch and we will put together a proposal.
Nepal Trek – Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake, the Adventure Detour
- A classic high-altitude trek with a special detour: turquoise Tilicho Lake
- Hindu villages, Buddhist monasteries and Tibetan culture in one route
- Cross the legendary Thorong La Pass, one of the highest trekking passes in the world
Khopra Danda, the Quiet Annapurna Trail
Ask a question about this trekManaslu Circuit with Larkya La, the Remote Trail
Ask a question about this trekWhat our customers have to say
Don't just take our word for it. Discover what travelers before you wrote about traveling with us.
Excited to explore Nepal?
Now let's make it real. Browse our trips or request a quote. And we will get back to you personally ASAP.