Trace the historic trail first taken by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa in 1953 as you embark on a legendary trek from Shivalaya to Everest Base Camp (EBC). This lesser-traveled path offers a raw, authentic Himalayan experience, weaving through rich cultural landscapes, traditional Sherpa villages, rhododendron forests, and dramatic alpine terrain on the way to the foot of the world’s tallest mountain — Mount Everest (8,848m).
Unlike the more common Lukla route, this trek begins with a scenic drive to Shivalaya and gradually gains altitude, allowing for excellent acclimatization and deeper cultural immersion. From quiet farming valleys to spiritual mountain monasteries and glacier-rimmed peaks, this is the ultimate Himalayan pilgrimage for adventurers who want to earn every step.
⭐ Trip Highlights
- Travel back in time along the original 1953 Hillary-Tenzing trail
- Explore Sherpa, Buddhist, Hindu, and Kiranti communities in the lower Solu-Khumbu region
- Visit iconic cultural sites like Junbesi Village, Tengboche Monastery, and Khumjung’s Yeti Museum
- Cross Lamjura La and Trakshindo Passes — panoramic Himalayan viewpoints
- Immerse yourself in authentic Sherpa hospitality far from the crowds
- Witness glaciers and peaks at Everest Base Camp and Kalapathar (5,545m)
- Scenic bus ride to Shivalaya and mountain flight from Lukla to Kathmandu
- Optional extensions to Gokyo Lakes, Cho-La Pass, or the Three High Passes
Start your journey with an early morning drive from Kathmandu to Shivalaya. The 9–10 hour scenic ride via the Araniko Highway takes you through rolling green hills, terraced farmlands, and along winding rivers. Along the way, enjoy views of the eastern Himalayas, including Langtang, Dorje Lakpa, Ganesh Himal, and more. You’ll pass through Jiri and reach the peaceful village of Shivalaya, located by a beautiful riverbank. This village is famously known as the gateway to Everest.
After breakfast, begin your trek with a steady climb through scenic countryside and scattered farms. You’ll walk through oak and rhododendron forests and reach the hilltop village of Deurali. Take in the view before descending to Bhandar, a traditional village with terraced fields and charming houses. This day offers your first real taste of Himalayan village culture.
Trek downhill towards the Likhu Khola River, cross a suspension bridge at 1,570m, and then climb up to the village of Kinja. After a lunch break, ascend gradually through terraced farmland and scattered hamlets to reach the Sherpa village of Sete, nestled beside a dense rhododendron forest. Visit the local monastery and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Today’s trek involves a long but rewarding ascent through beautiful rhododendron, maple, and pine forests to reach Lamjura La Pass (3,520m) — the highest point on the trail before Namche Bazaar. From here, descend through misty woodland to Junbesi, one of the most picturesque Sherpa villages on the route.
Begin your day with a gentle climb to a ridge (3,080m) where you’ll catch your first distant view of Mount Everest. Continue past Ringmo village and ascend to Trakshindo Pass (3,071m). After taking in the panoramic views, descend through conifer forests to reach Nunthala, a large village with traditional houses and terraced farms.
Descend alongside the Dudh Koshi River through terraced landscapes and traditional Sherpa settlements. Cross the river and climb up to reach Khari Khola, a vibrant village known for its cultural richness and warm hospitality. Take time to explore the village and interact with locals.
Begin the day with a steep ascent to Bupsa Danda. The trail continues through lush rhododendron and oak forests. You’ll pass small settlements like Bhumsing and Puiyan. The trail becomes narrower and descends steeply to Surkhe, a village just below Lukla airstrip.
From Surkhe, ascend steadily to Chaurikharka, where the trail joins the main route from Lukla. The path continues along the Dudh Koshi River, passing mani walls, prayer wheels, and small Sherpa villages. Reach Phakding after a pleasant walk.
Cross several suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River, including the famous Hillary Bridge. Enter the Sagarmatha National Park at Monjo and begin a steep climb through pine forests to reach Namche Bazaar, the bustling Sherpa capital of the Khumbu region.
Take a rest day to acclimate to the altitude. Hike to the Everest View Hotel or explore the villages of Khunde and Khumjung. Visit the monastery said to house a Yeti scalp and enjoy sweeping views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and Lhotse. Return to Namche for the night.
Hike along a scenic trail overlooking the Dudh Koshi River with stunning views of the Everest range. After descending to the river, cross a suspension bridge and begin a steep ascent to the hilltop monastery village of Tengboche. Visit the famous Tengboche Monastery, the largest in the region.
Descend through lush forests and cross the Imja River. The trail then ascends past Pangboche and continues through alpine landscapes. Arrive at Dingboche, a high-altitude village surrounded by spectacular peaks.
Take a day hike to Chhukung Valley for better acclimatization. Enjoy views of Island Peak and Lhotse. Return to Dingboche for rest and preparation for the higher altitudes ahead.
Ascend gradually through a wide valley to Thukla, where you’ll find memorials dedicated to climbers who lost their lives on Everest. Continue along the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier to reach the settlement of Lobuche.
Start early and follow the rocky path alongside the Khumbu Glacier to reach Gorakshep. After a short break, continue on to Everest Base Camp. Spend time exploring the area and taking photos before retracing your steps to Gorakshep for the night.
Begin before sunrise to hike up to Kala Patthar, the best vantage point for panoramic views of Everest and the surrounding peaks. After taking in the views, descend to Pheriche via Gorakshep.
Descend through alpine meadows and forests, passing through Pangboche, Tengboche, and other familiar villages before reaching Namche Bazaar.
A long descent back through the Dudh Koshi Valley, passing Phakding and several suspension bridges. Arrive in Lukla and celebrate the completion of your trek.
Catch an early morning flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day relaxing or exploring the city.