Tenzing Hillary Trail Trek

Q: Do I need any permits for the trek?

Yes, you will need the Sagarmatha National Park Permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit (Trekkers’ Card) to trek the Tenzing Hillary Trail.

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Transportation
Domestic Flight: Ramechhap – Lukla – Ramechhap Ground Transfer: Private vehicle for airport and Bus to jiri Ramechhap transfers
Group Size
1 to 18 people (private and group departures available)
Maximum Altitude
5,545 meters / 18,192 feet (Kala Patthar)
Accomodation
2 nights in Kathmandu (standard hotel with breakfast) 18 nights in trekking lodges (
Arrival on
Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), Kathmandu
Departure from
Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), Kathmandu
Best season
Spring: March to May Autumn: September to November
Guiding method
Professionally licensed English-speaking trekking and climbing guides; Sherpa climbing guide for summit day
Tour type
Guided lodge-based trekking (Tea House Trek) Available as a small group or private trek
Language
English-speaking guide Other languages available on request
Permits
Sagarmatha National Park Permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit (Trekkers’ Card).
Meals
3 meals per day during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Minimum Age
12
Maximum Age
65

Tenzing Hillary Trail Treks

The Tenzing Hillary Trail is one of the most historic trekking routes in the world. It retraces the path followed by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay during the 1953 first ascent of Mount Everest. Unlike the more common short flight to Lukla, this trek begins from Jiri or Shivalaya, deep in the lush mid-hills of Nepal.

From here, the trail meanders through terraced farmlands, subtropical forests, and traditional Sherpa and Rai villages before climbing into the high Himalayas. This gradual ascent allows for better acclimatization and offers an authentic cultural immersion rarely experienced by trekkers on the fly-in route.

You’ll cross Lamjura La Pass, visit the Sherpa capital Namche Bazaar, explore Tengboche Monastery, and walk to the base of Mount Everest itself. The trek culminates with a sunrise climb of Kala Patthar (5,545 m) — the most iconic Everest viewpoint.

Trip Highlights-Tenzing Hillary Trail – 21 Days

Cross the scenic Lamjura La Pass with panoramic views of snow peaks.
Experience authentic Sherpa and Rai village life far from crowded tourist areas.
Spend two acclimatization days in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche.
Visit the peaceful Tengboche Monastery, with Everest and Ama Dablam towering above.
Stand at Everest Base Camp and witness the Khumbu Icefall up close.
Watch the sun rise over Everest from Kala Patthar, a moment you’ll never forget.

Day 01 :

Arrival in Kathmandu 1400

Airport pick-up and transfer to your hotel in Thamel, the heart of Kathmandu’s trekking hub.
Evening trek briefing with your guide.
Meals: None

Breakfast

3 Stars Hotel

Day 02 :

Kathmandu Sightseeing & Trek Preparation

Morning gear check and permit processing.
Guided sightseeing of UNESCO sites such as Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath, and Boudhanath Stupa.
Meals: Breakfast

Breakfast

3 Stars Hotel

Day 03 :

Drive from Kathmandu to Jiri (1,905 m) or Shivalaya (1,770 m)

Drive from Kathmandu to Jiri (1,905 m) or Shivalaya (1,770 m)
Scenic 7–8 hr drive through green hills, rivers, and rural villages.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Tea House

Day 04 :

Trek to Deurali (2,705 m) or Bhandar (2,200 m)

Trek to Bhandar (2,200 m)
Walking: 5–6 hrs / 10–12 km
Pass through farmlands, forests, and hillside settlements.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Tea House

Day 05 :

Bhandar trek to Sete (2,575 m)

Walking: 7–8 hrs / 12–14 km
Steady uphill climb through oak, pine, and rhododendron forests.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Tea House

Day 06 :

Cross Lamjura La Pass (3,530 m) & Trek to Junbesi (2,675 m)

Walking: 6–7 hrs / 14 km
Lamjura La is the highest point before joining the main Everest trail. Descend to Junbesi, a traditional Sherpa village.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Tea House

Day 07 :

Drive from Ringmo to Surke 2290m

Short morning trek to Ringmo, followed by jeep transfer to Surke to save time.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Tea House

Day 08 :

Trek from Surke to Monjo (2,830 m)

Walking: 6–7 hrs / 13–14 km
Join the main Everest trail, passing through Chheplung and Phakding along the Dudh Koshi River.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Tea House

Day 09 :

Monjo trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m)

Monjo trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m)
Walking: 5–6 hrs / 10–11 km
Cross the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge and get your first glimpse of Everest.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Tea House

Day 10 :

Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar

Spend the day adjusting to the altitude.
Optional hike to Everest View Hotel (3,880 m) for stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.
Visit the Sherpa Culture Museum and explore the vibrant Namche market.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Tea House

Day 11 :

Namche trek to Deboche (3,740 m)

Namche trek to Deboche (3,740 m)
Walking: 5–6 hrs / 9–10 km
Descend to Phunki Tenga, cross the Dudh Koshi, and climb through pine and rhododendron forests to Tengboche down to Deboche
Visit Tengboche Monastery, the spiritual heart of the Khumbu, with Everest and Ama Dablam towering above.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Tea House

Day 12 :

Deboche trek to Dingboche (4,410 m)

Walking: 5–6 hrs / 10–11 km
Pass through Pangboche, the highest permanent Sherpa settlement, and enter the Imja Valley.
Views of Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Island Peak dominate the horizon.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Tea House

Day 13 :

Acclimatization Day in Dingboche

Optional day hike to Nangkartsang Peak (5,083 m) for panoramic views of Makalu, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.
Shorter hikes and rest in the village to prepare for higher altitudes.
Meals: B, L, D

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Tea House

Day 14 :

Dingboche trek to Lobuche (4,940 m)

Walking: 5–6 hrs / 8–9 km
Gradual climb to Thukla, then ascend the steep memorial hill, passing tributes to fallen Everest climbers.
Continue along the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier to Lobuche.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Tea House

Day 15 :

Trek to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) & Return to Gorak Shep (5,164 m)

Walking: 7–8 hrs / 12–13 km
Follow the trail to Gorak Shep, drop bags, then trek to Everest Base Camp along the Khumbu Glacier.
Stand at the base of the world’s tallest peak and witness the Khumbu Icefall.
Return to Gorak Shep for the night.
Meals: B, L, D

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Tea House

Day 16 :

arly morning Climb Kala Patthar (5,545 m) & Trek to pangboche (3910m)

Early morning ascent of Kala Patthar for sunrise over Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse.
Descend to Gorak Shep, have breakfast, then trek down to Pangboche.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Tea House

Day 17 :

Pangboche trek to Namche Bazaar

Pangboche trek to Namche Bazaar
Walking: 6–7 hrs / 14–15 km
Retrace your steps via Tengboche and enjoy a warm shower and bakery treats in Namche.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Tea House

Day 18 :

Namche trek to Lukla 2860m

Walking: 6–7 hrs / 13–14 km
Follow the Dudh Koshi River through Phakding and Chheplung to Lukla.
Celebrate the completion of your trek with your team.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Tea House

Day 19 :

Fly from Lukla to Ramechap, Drive to Kathmandu

Fly from Lukla to Ramechap, Drive to Kathmandu
Morning scenic flight from Lukla to Ramechap with stunning mountain views.
From Ramechap, drive back to Kathmandu by road.
Transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu for rest and relaxation.

Breakfast

3 Stars Hotel

Day 20 :

Free Day in Kathmandu and Final Departure,Optional city sightseeing: Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath,Free time for shopping or rest,Afternoon flight back home.

Free Day in Kathmandu and Final Departure,Optional city sightseeing: Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath,Free time for shopping or rest,Afternoon flight back home.

Breakfast

3 Stars Hotel

FAQs-Tenzing Hillary Trail Trek

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What is the Tenzing Hillary Trail?

The Tenzing Hillary Trail is a classic trekking route in the Everest region that retraces the historic path taken by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay during their first successful ascent of Mount Everest in 1953. It offers stunning Himalayan scenery, Sherpa culture, and a chance to explore traditional villages.

What is the difficulty level of the trek?

The trek is considered moderate to challenging due to the long duration (21 days) and the high altitude involved. Good physical fitness and prior trekking experience are recommended.

What is the best time to trek the Tenzing Hillary Trail?

The best seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is stable, and views of Everest and surrounding peaks are clear.

What is the maximum altitude reached on this trek?

The trail reaches up to approximately 3,860 meters (12,664 feet) at Tengboche, with the possibility of side excursions to higher points for acclimatization and views.

How long do we trek each day?

Daily trekking hours vary between 4 to 7 hours depending on the day’s distance and elevation changes.

Do I need a guide and porter?

Yes, hiring a licensed guide and porter is highly recommended for safety, navigation, and to support local communities.

What kind of accommodation is provided?

Accommodation is mostly in tea houses (basic lodges) along the trail offering simple rooms and meals.

Is the food safe to eat on the trail?

Tea houses serve traditional Nepali meals such as dal bhat, noodles, soups, and snacks. Drinking bottled or boiled water is advised to avoid illness.

What should I pack for this trek?

Essential items include warm clothing, trekking boots, sleeping bag, trekking poles, sunscreen, water purification tablets, and a first aid kit.

Do I need any permits for the trek?

Yes, you will need the Sagarmatha National Park Permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit (Trekkers’ Card) to trek the Tenzing Hillary Trail.

Is altitude sickness a concern?

Yes, altitude sickness can occur. Proper acclimatization days are built into the itinerary, and it’s important to stay hydrated and listen to your body.

Can I hire a helicopter evacuation service if needed?

Yes, helicopter evacuation is available in emergencies, but it is expensive. We recommend travel insurance covering high-altitude evacuation.

How do I get to the starting point of the trek?

The trek usually starts from Lukla, which is accessible by a short flight from Kathmandu.

What cultural experiences can I expect?

The trail passes through Sherpa villages, monasteries, and offers a chance to learn about Buddhist culture and mountaineering history.

Is the trek suitable for solo travelers?

Yes, but it is safer to trek with a guide or group due to remote terrain and unpredictable weather.