We take several little-known trails affording views of Everest, Lhotse, Kangtaiga, Ama Dablam and the other great peaks of the Khumbu area. Then we join festive crowds of Tibetans and Sherpas at Chiwong Gompa for the annual Mani Rimdu Festival.

This is the region’s main festival, yet few Westerners reach this remote corner of the mountains. In the presence of the High Lama, the monks don elaborate brocade costumes to perform ancient temple dances that have changed little over hundreds of years.

This is the perfect way to see the Everest range (away from the crowds) and gain a first-hand view of the tradition, religion, and culture of the Sherpas.

Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival Kathmandu, transfer to hotel
Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu City, hotel
Day 03: Fly to Lukla, trek begins, first camp
Day 20: Trek arrival at Phaplu, camp or hotel
Day 21: Fly Phaplu to Kathmandu, hotel
Day 22: Leisure day in Kathmandu, hotel
Day 23: Transfer to airport for final departure