Overview: This trip is rightly called "the classic." Many experienced hikers choose it for their first Himalayan trek, as it offers the very best mountain scenery. Hikers arrive expecting to be awed by Mt. Everest and find that there are many other more spectacular mountains to see.

From the tiny airstrip at Lukla (altitude 9,400 feet), we load our gear onto yaks and begin our journey through Sherpa villages, forests and glacial lakes to our high point of over 18,000 feet. From Gokyo Ri, we gaze upon the roof of the world — the awe-inspiring panorama of Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Lhotse Shar, Nuptse, Makalu and Everest, five peaks that rise above 25,000 feet! During our 18 days on the trail we cross a 17,778 foot pass, visit a Saturday market and local monasteries, discover Tibetan Buddhist culture and meet the Sherpa people, who are as memorable and captivating as the Himalayan peaks that tower above their home.

This is a strenuous hike with some exposure on trails and bridge crossings. In addition, landslides may cause detours. This will be an enjoyable experience if you like physical activity and the outdoors. However, you must be prepared to "rough it," as conditions in Nepal are as variable as the topography. Be prepared for changes in weather, some unpleasant toilet facilities and the possibility of sickness. With a positive and flexible attitude, you will enjoy the challenge of this trip creating many fond memories and great pictures. It's the experience of a lifetime!

Leadership: The Everest Classic Trek Leader is Priscilla McKenney, who is trained as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and maintains current first aid certification. Priscilla has guided for over 20 years and Everest remains one of her favorite areas. She made her first journey to Nepal in 1987 and has studied both the Nepali language and Tibetan Buddhism. Priscilla has a great sense of humor, is highly energetic and very safety conscious.

Everest Classic Day-To-Day Itinerary Detail:

Pre Trip Days: In transit from your home (Americans lose one day crossing the international date line). Fly to Kathmandu, changing planes in Bangkok or Singapore. Your group leader or guide will meet your flight at the Tribhuvan airport in Kathmandu (elevation 4,428 feet). They must wait for you outside the customs hall, so we meet after you get your visa, collect your luggage and pass through Nepal customs on your own.

Day 1: Please note that you must arrive in Kathmandu by Tuesday, October 21, 2008. We will meet your arrival at the Tribhuvan airport after you get your visa, collect your luggage and proceed through Nepal customs on your own. A van will transport us from the busy airport to a delightful smaller hotel in the Thamel neighborhood of Kathmandu. After time to settle in, we'll take a relaxing walk to the Buddhist stupa of Swayambhunath. A stupa is a large dome and pyramid-like structure containing religious relics. Swayambhunath is also known as the Monkey Temple because of the large band of monkeys that call it their home. At one time, the Kathmandu Valley was a huge lake. Legend has it that the hill on which the Monkey Temple stands was an island. There is evidence that the great Buddhist Emperor Ashoka visited the site 2,000 years ago. Tonight we enjoy a traditional Nepalese dinner. (Dinner)

Day 2: Preparation for the trek. Your Trek Leader will be preoccupied with many final arrangements this morning. Please be sure that your international air ticket is confirmed, that you have all the gear you need for the trek and that it is organized. Nepal's capital is a delight to the senses, the imagination and the heart. For centuries Kathmandu was forbidden to outsiders. Since it was opened to the world in the early 1950s, it has been one of the most eagerly sought travel destinations. If there is free time you might walk to Durbar Square on your own and bargain for a rickshaw ride back to the guest house. Dinner is at a local Indian restaurant in the neighborhood. (Breakfast, Dinner).

Day 3: Kathmandu to Lukla/Phakding (9,184 feet). Morning transfer to Kathmandu airport for the flight to Lukla, a grass-covered landing strip hewn out of the rocky mountainside at an elevation of 9,400 feet. Lukla airport has been paved and has a small but pretty well organized terminal building is also build. Due to the unpredictable nature of mountain weather, delays frequently occur. With a flight path parallel to the Nepal Himalaya, you can see such massifs as Gaurishankar, Melungtse and Cho Oyu to the left of the aircraft Our Sherpa team will be waiting for us at Lukla and will supervise the loading of the porters and yaks. When all is ready, we will set forth on foot on a broad trail leading down to the Dudh Kosi River. Here we join the main trail coming up from Chaurikharka. The trail leads along the east bank, gradually gaining elevation to the village of Phakding, our first camp is located just a few hours away. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 4: Namche Bazaar (11,300 feet). A rather long and challenging day up the infamous "Namche hill," which is a very steep 2,000 foot ascent. Since we have just arrived at altitude, we will proceed slowly with many rest stops. Along the trail are villages interspersed with magnificent forest of rhododendron, magnolia and giant fir trees. Near the halfway point, on the Namche Hill, Mt. Everest (29,028 feet) and Lhotse (27,916 feet) appear to our gaze. The remarkable town of Namche is the largest and most prosperous in the Khumbu, a historical trading center where grain from the south was exchanged for salt from Tibet. Hiking time today is five to six hours. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 5: Namche Layover. Namche Bazaar has a long history as a trading center where grain brought from the south was bartered or sold for salt from Tibet. Today, Namche remains a brisk trading center, though the salt trade ended when the Chinese closed access to the passes in the North. Now, the bustle of tourism is the energy that keeps the town thriving and the market has adjusted to this new dynamic. Alongside once-embargoed goods from Tibet, there appears an array of commercial western goods such as chocolate bars, clothing and toilet paper — many items that are destined to be resold to needy trekkers in the lodges and small shops. This is a good time and place for you to stock up on snacks or provisions needed for the coming days! Namche also has a variety of reliable Internet services available. It's a good time to consider sending a message back home! Depending on our groups acclimatization, health and energy levels we can continue on a trail to Thame (12,925 feet) — traveling westward through rhododendron forests with magnificent views of Kwangde, Kangteiga, and Thamserku — snow covered peaks piercing the sky above us to over 20,000 feet. To the north of Thame is the Nangpo Tsangpo Valley, leading to the Nangpa La, a lofty 18,853 foot pass that traditionally provided access to Rongbuk Monastery and Lhasa in Tibet. It is in Thame at the hillside gompa (monastery) that the Buddhist masked dance drama, known as Mani Rimdu, depicts the introduction of Buddhism into Tibet by Padmasambhava in the eighth century. Today our trek is four to five hours with lots of climbing as the trail undulates both up and down. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 6: To Kunde (12,600 feet). As soon as we pass Namche village we trek along the hillside that offers excellent views of most of the Khumbu valley panoramically surrounded by Mt. Everest and Lhotse on the north and Amadablam on the east. As we trek through ups and downs, the trail then descends to Phungi Thanga, where a few small teashops are set on the bank of Dudhkoshi River. After crossing the bridge, it's straight uphill until we finally reach the small plateau of Tengboche monastery where we find relief as we set up tonight's camp. After settling at the camp, walk to the Tenboche Monastery to witness the famous festival of Mani Rimdu. Mani Rimdu is a festival where Tibetan Buddhist Monks perform series of Mask Dances representing victory of Buddhist teachers and deities over demons. This special festival is performed every full moon of November at Tengboche. The evening is followed by traditional Sherpa dance. Today's approximate hiking time is six hours. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 7: Kunde to Dole (13,300 feet). The trail up the Dudh Kosi River transports us to summer yak-grazing country. Today's hike is a long one and includes two long ascents (over 1,000 feet) as well as one long descent. On average, we should accomplish it in about six to seven hours. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 8: Dole to Macherma (14,650 feet). We'll take a break today with a short day on the trail— just about two hours of hiking. Because of our altitude gain, we won't go higher or push harder. We'll have most of the day to explore remote spots to the west, climb into the craggy mountains or simply kick back surrounded by a blissful panorama. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 9: Macherma to Gokyo (15,720 feet). We amble along the banks of a melted glacial river that snakes down the west side of the Ngozumpa Glacier. As we pass two small, deep–blue glacial lakes, we finally reach the yersa of Gokyo — poised on the stark eastern shore of the third lake. These are the rough stone huts that are the summer homes for the herders. Todays hike usually takes about five hours. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 10-11: Gokyo Layover. This is a spectacular place to rest a few days and enjoy simple day hikes with incredible views. The first day we will try a three–to–five–hour hike. Ascending a northeastern ridge we reach a small summit (17,990 feet) which offers an broad skyline from Cho Oyu, to Everest, past Lhotse, and all the way to Makalu. The second day some may choose an optional 7.5 hour hike to a 19,000 foot summit at the base of Cho Oyu. Four of Nepal's eight 8,000 meter peaks are visible from this remote point. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 12: Gokyo to Chugima (16,174 feet). Crossing the Dudh Kosi, we hike within clear sight of the terminal moraine of Ngosumpa Glacier before climbing up to our lofty, open campsite. We are hiking in the very rare air between 15,000 and 16,000 feet for six to seven hours through breathtaking hanging glaciers and astounding 360 degree mountain vistas. We walk purposfully as our eyes take in the amazing contrasts of earth and sky which surrounds us.(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 13: Chugima Pass to Dzongla (15,889 feet). Today your focus is aided by good Glacier Glasses as we climb a 17,778 foot pass across blindingly–bright snowfields. We pass close views of hanging glaciers above us as we continue on a steep descent through loose rock and large stone slabs. Later we arrive at the yersa of Dzongla — perched on a shelf of land sporting fine views in every direction. Our hiking time should be about five to seven hours of challenging effort. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 14: Dzongla to Dingboche (14,150 feet). We descend past lush alpine pastures and temporary summer villages. In summer, villagers from lower altitudes bring their stock here to graze as well as cultivate several crops nearby. Our trail passes under majestic Tawoche (21,462 feet) and crosses the Imja Khola River to reach the beautiful stone village of Dingboche. We are now surrounded by fields of winter wheat. From Dzongla, your group leader may present an optional route to Kala Patar for intimate views of Everest and its basecamp. This alternate route goes north to Lobuche (16,175 feet) and Gorak Shep (17,000 feet) three miles further.

From there it's all uphill to the summit of Kala Pattar ("Black Rock" at 18,450 feet). Views from Kala Pattar include Everest Base Camp and Mount Everest, with a clear close view of the Ice Fall and the South Col. Black Rock is actually a spur of Pumori, a beautiful peak whose Tibetan name means "Daughter Peak." Afterwards, you continue crossing the Kongma La (over 18,000 feet) for more inspiring views before finally rejoining the rest of group at Chhukhung. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 15: Dingboche Layover. For those not taking the side trip to Kala Patar, today is a time for rest, laundry or exploring the small village. For those who haven't had enough walking, there are also many interesting day hikes in this area. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Days 16-17: Chhukhung (15,535 feet). The trail travels east today. We cross numerous streams flowing from the Nuptse and Lhotse Glaciers to a number of yersa at Chhukhing. Here we gaze on the east face of Ama Dablam (21,964 feet). This hike is a gentle uphill grade and should require less than three hours. From our camp we can amble to some of the smaller peaks for close-up views of the limestone bands on the Lhotse-Nuptse Wall, Baruntse and Island Peak. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 18: Chhukhung to Pangboche (12,800 feet). We make a long but moderate five to six hour descent to Pangboche, the highest year-round settlement in the Imja Khola Valley. Above the main village is the gompa, built some 300 years ago as Buddhism was introduced into the Khumbu. According to legend, the large black juniper trees that surround the monastery sprouted from the hairs of an old lama who tore out his hair and cast it around the gompa. Years ago, you could see relics of the Yeti or abominable snowman. A scalp and hand were kept in the gompa until they were abruptly stolen. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 19: Pangboche to Thangboche (12,670 feet). Out two–hour hike today comes with a short–but–steep climb bringing us to Thangboche (12,670 feet). The prominent monastery is the spiritual center of the Everest region and enjoys stunning panoramas of the Himalayas. The main gompa burned in January 1989, but was beautifully reconstructed. We continue hiking about five more hours to Khumjung, where we are grateful to set our tents for the night. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Days 20-21: Khunde/Khumjung to Lukla. We return to familiar territory as we head "down the hill" to the airport in two easy days or one long day of hiking. Don't forget there is one last steep climb up the hill into Lukla. Later that day, we'll enjoy a fond farewell dinner accompanied by our Sherpa staff. After dinner, it's time to prepare ourselves and our baggage for tomorrow's early morning flight. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 22: Lukla to Kathmandu. Due to the unpredictable nature of mountain weather, it is possible that our flight will not depart on schedule, but with luck, we will arrive in Kathmandu before noon and transfer to our hotel. The remainder of the day is designed for showers, leisure and independent activities. Lunch and dinner is on your own today and there are many choices to excite the taste buds. Some of the favorite restaurant choices include Nepali Kitchen (Nepalese Food), Third Eye Restaurant (Indian Food), The Yak (snacks and Tibetan food) and KC's (Traveler's western favorites) and the Pumpernickel Bakery. (Breakfast)

Day 23: Guided sightseeing in Kathmandu. Places of interest include the Hindu temples and the burning Ghats of Pashupatinath along the holy Bagmati River. Ghats are steps which lead up from a river. There are, for example, bathing Ghats, where people wash themselves and their clothes. Burning Ghats are steps where Hindus cremate their dead bodies in preparation for a ceremonial disposal in the river. There is also an important Shiva temple at Pashupatinath. Shiva is the great destroyer and creator God of the Hindu religion. From Pashupatinath we continue on to the nearby Buddhist stupa at Bodhnath. Bodhnath is a truly impressive site. Pilgrims pray by circumambulating the large "all-seeing eyes" of Buddha. After lunch we visit Bhaktapur and Patan. Today is a good introduction to both the Buddhist and Hindu religions. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 24: Depart Kathmandu. We have an early Breakfast and transfer to the airport for our departure. Other options include remaining in Kathmandu for more sightseeing, exploring the Taj Mahal or a visit Chitwan National Park for an exciting jungle safari. Finally note that you will want to save currency for departure tax. Airport Departure Tax at Kathmandu airport (international flights) is 1,700 Nepali Rupees (about $24USD). The departure Tax should be paid before checking in at the airline counter. There is a bank counter that collects the tax.

Post Trip: Same day return date for Americans crossing the international date line — to arrive home about midday. A dreamy day filled with wonderful memories — vignettes of new faces, places and friends you'll never forget!

Important Note: This is meant only as a general guide to the schedule of our days. Changes can be made as we go along, based on local conditions, acclimatization, health and fitness levels, etc. Ascents and descents listed in this itinerary are approximate totals of daily ups and downs. The exact amount will vary considerably and is impossible to measure accurately. The times and elevations given here are rounded off. Please bear in mind that this is a long and strenuous trek.

Travel Details: If you are making your own arrangements, note that you must arrive in Kathmandu no later than October 21, 2008 and that you should not depart earlier than November 13, 2008. Ask our ticketing agent to book a room should you have an overnight stopover. You are welcome to travel early or stay for extra days at the end. We can arrange additional nights at any of our hotels or guest houses for you. The cost is approximately $35USD per night (single) or $25USD per night (sharing a double room) with comfortable deluxe rooms with attached bathrooms, telephones, room service, laundry service, a free safety deposit box and ample luggage storage. There are convenient, inexpensive internet cafes within a leisurely two minute walk from our hotel.

Airport pickup for early arrivals is $10USD per person. For late departures you can take a cab to the airport or have us arrange an airport transfer for $10USD one way ($20USD for round trip).

Expenses: Additional travel-related expenses include: Your flight to the trip starting point of Kathmandu and a Visa ($60USD for Nepal). We also recommend that you purchase travel insurance (at an approximate cost of $200USD) which includes coverage for trip cancelation and emergency evacuation. Many other levels of trip insurance start at $50USD. Please see our Policy section for complete information on our trip cancellations policies. Payment for additional services may be required at the time the service is received. Please refer to the booking information section of our application form for more information.


Trip Deposit: $250USD
Trip Price (Land Cost As Described): $2100USD
In-Trip (Round-Trip) Airfare Estimate: $204USD
Single Supplement (Single accommodation where available): $260USD
Trip Difficulty Rating: Strenuous
Maximum Group Size: 8