Our 9-day trek to Tengboche Monastery with Igloo Himalaya Treks exceeded every expectation. Reaching the monastery courtyard with Ama Dablam towering immediately behind the ancient stupa was spiritual and unforgettable. The acclimatization pacing at Namche Bazaar was managed with great care by our guide Sagar.
Everest Region • Khumbu Valley
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Tengbuche Trek — 9 Days
Walk through the lower Khumbu to Tengboche Monastery on this nine-day journey through Sherpa villages, forests and mountain viewpoints. The Tengbuche Trek follows the Dudh Koshi valley from Lukla through Phakding to Namche Bazaar, with an acclimatisation day before continuing to Tengboche.
Travelers' Choice
Best of the Best 2026
Key Trip Facts
Essential Expedition SpecificationsDuration9 Days9 days, including 6 days of walking with the Namche acclimatisation hike
DifficultyModerateModerate, with sustained ascents, descents and walking above 3,000 m
Maximum Altitude~3,880 m / 3,860 m overnightAround 3,880 m if hiking to Hotel Everest View; highest overnight at Tengboche, approximately 3,860 m
DestinationNepalKhumbu region, Sagarmatha National Park
ActivityTrekkingVillage trails, suspension bridges, forest paths, viewpoints
AccommodationHotel + Teahouses2 nights in a 3-star Kathmandu hotel and 6 teahouse nights during the trek
TransportFlights + TransfersReturn Lukla flights and private airport transfers; confirm seasonal Manthali road arrangements
MealsFull Board TrekkingKathmandu breakfast; trekking breakfast, lunch and dinner with tea or coffee; seasonal fruit and farewell dinner
Recommended SeasonSpring & AutumnSpring (March–May) and autumn (September–November)
Trek StartsLuklaFly Kathmandu to Lukla (2,860 m) at the start of Day 2
Trek EndsLuklaFly Lukla to Kathmandu at the start of Day 8
Trek RegionEverest / KhumbuSagarmatha National Park, Solukhumbu District, Nepal
Package Start PointKathmanduTribhuvan International Airport arrival, Day 1
Package End PointKathmanduTribhuvan International Airport departure, Day 9
Tengbuche Trek from Lukla Overview
Our nine-day Tengbuche Trek follows the lower Everest trail from Lukla through Phakding and Namche Bazaar to Tengboche Monastery. An acclimatisation day in Namche gives you another night at the same elevation before continuing higher. The route combines village walking, forest trails and mountain views, returning through Namche to Lukla after your stay in Tengboche.
After flying to Lukla, you follow the Dudh Koshi valley through Phakding, crossing suspension bridges before climbing to Namche Bazaar. Beyond Namche, the trail follows the hillside, descends to the river and climbs again to Tengboche. Its Buddhist monastery and views of Ama Dablam make this a memorable stop. Along the route, you pass Sherpa villages where monasteries, prayer wheels and mani walls reflect the community's Buddhist traditions.
From Namche, the trail follows the hillside before descending to Phunki Tenga and climbing through forest to Tengboche. The monastery and views towards Ama Dablam are the main focus of your overnight stay. After visiting, return along the same route to Namche. Your final walking day continues through Monjo and Phakding before reaching Lukla again.
The trek includes one acclimatisation day in Namche, with a shorter hike and another night in the town. You need to prepare for consecutive walking days, uneven paths and long climbs. The ascent to Namche and the climb from the river to Tengboche require steady effort. No technical climbing skills are needed, but altitude remains a consideration throughout this journey.
You stay in mountain teahouses during the trek and a hotel in Kathmandu. The nine-day programme covers your arrival, the walking journey, return travel and departure from Nepal.
Tengbuche Trek from Lukla Highlights
Why Book the Tengbuche Trek from Lukla with Igloo Himalaya Treks?
We help you prepare in Kathmandu and support your walking journey through the Khumbu. This package includes the following arrangements.
Trek Briefing and Gear Check
Before leaving Kathmandu, we explain the programme, check your essential equipment and help with last-minute preparations. You can ask questions about the walking days, accommodation and what to carry.
Guide and Porter Support
An English-speaking guide leads the route and explains local landmarks, while porters carry your main luggage. We normally arrange one porter for two trekkers; confirm the allocation and allowance before departure.
Equipment Provided for the Trek
We provide a sleeping bag, down jacket and duffel bag for your trekking gear. All three items are supplied for use during the journey and must be returned after the trip.
Communication When Plans Change
Weather can affect Lukla flights and the trekking schedule. Our team keeps you informed, explains the available options and discusses the next steps with you, including any additional accommodation or transport costs.
Our nine-day itinerary includes arrival in Kathmandu, six days of walking with Namche acclimatisation, and return travel from Lukla. Walking times and distances are approximate; pace, weather and trail conditions affect each day's schedule.
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Arrival & Briefing — Kathmandu, approximately 1,400 m — Hotel Check-in
Welcome to Nepal. Our representative meets you at Tribhuvan International Airport and accompanies you to your hotel. After you settle in, we go through the trekking programme, check your essential equipment and discuss any questions you have.
Depending on your arrival time, you can explore the nearby streets of Thamel or rest after your flight. We also help with any final preparations before you leave for the Everest region.
Day 2: Fly to Lukla and Trek to Phakding
Mountain Flight & Valley Trail — Phakding, 2,610 m — 3–4 hrs / 8–9 km
Your mountain journey begins with a flight to Lukla at 2,860 m. Depending on airline operations and the season, the flight may depart from Kathmandu or Manthali Airport in Ramechhap.
After landing, you meet your trekking team and begin walking towards Phakding. The trail passes village homes, prayer wheels and forested slopes, with downhill stretches and shorter climbs along the way. Sections follow the Dudh Koshi River, introducing you to the valley you will explore over the coming days. We spend the night in Phakding.
Day 3: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar
National Park Ascent — Namche Bazaar, 3,440 m — 5–6 hrs / 10–11 km
We follow the Dudh Koshi through villages and pine forests, passing Benkar and Monjo before entering Sagarmatha National Park. Your guide handles the permit checks along the route.
Suspension bridges connect the valley trails, followed by a sustained uphill walk towards Namche. This final climb is the most demanding part of the day, so we allow time for breaks. Namche’s shops, lodges and houses spread across the hillside, making it an important trading town and a useful place to spend the next two nights.
Day 4: Acclimatisation Day in Namche Bazaar
Acclimatisation Walk — Namche Bazaar, 3,440 m (High: Hotel Everest View, ~3,880 m) — 3–4 hrs
We stay another night in Namche and take a shorter hike above the town. A usual option is the trail towards Hotel Everest View, where clear weather offers views of Everest and nearby peaks.
Your guide chooses the walk according to conditions and how the group is feeling. Afterwards, we return to Namche for the night. The afternoon gives you time to rest, visit the shops or stop at a café before continuing towards Tengboche tomorrow.
Day 5: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche
Forest Trail to Monastery — Tengboche, around 3,860 m — 5–6 hrs / 11 km
Leaving Namche, we follow the hillside trail before descending towards Phunki Tenga. Mountain views accompany sections of the walk, while the river marks the low point before the climb to Tengboche.
The uphill trail passes through pine and rhododendron forest. Once we reach the village, you can settle into the teahouse and explore the surroundings. Tengboche’s Buddhist monastery stands against the mountain backdrop of Ama Dablam. If it is open to visitors, your guide explains the visiting customs before you enter.
Day 6: Return Trek from Tengboche to Namche Bazaar
Forest Descent & Traverse — Namche Bazaar, 3,440 m — 5–6 hrs / 11 km
After breakfast, begin the return towards Namche Bazaar. The trail descends through forest to Phunki Tenga before climbing back towards the hillside route. Mountain views depend on clear weather.
Although you finish at a lower elevation, this is not a continuous downhill walk. The climb from the river requires effort, followed by the hillside trail towards Namche. On arrival, check into your teahouse. The remaining time is available for rest or a walk around town before tomorrow’s longer stage.
Day 7: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla
Valley Descent to Trailhead — Lukla, 2,860 m — 6–7 hrs / 18–20 km
Our final trekking day follows the route down from Namche through Jorsalle, Monjo and Phakding. You cross familiar suspension bridges and return through the forested sections of the Dudh Koshi valley.
The approach to Lukla includes uphill stretches, so there is still some effort ahead after the main descent. On arrival, we check into the teahouse for the last night in the mountains. The evening gives you time to organise your belongings and spend time with your guide and porter team.
Day 8: Fly from Lukla and Return to Kathmandu
Morning Flight & City Return — Kathmandu, approximately 1,400 m — Farewell Dinner
We prepare for the return flight from Lukla. Depending on the operating schedule, you may fly directly to Kathmandu or land at Manthali Airport and continue by road.
After reaching your hotel, the remaining time is free for rest, shopping or exploring nearby areas. We share a farewell dinner in Kathmandu, bringing the trekking programme to a close. Flight timing remains dependent on weather and airline operations.
Day 9: Departure from Kathmandu
Final Transfer — Homeward Bound — Kathmandu Departure
Your nine-day Tengbuche Trek ends today. After breakfast, you prepare for your onward journey. Depending on your departure time, there may be an opportunity for a final walk nearby or shopping before leaving the hotel.
Our representative accompanies you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure.
What’s Included in the Tengbuche Trek from Lukla
Airport transfers
Private-vehicle pickup and drop-off for arrival and departure in Kathmandu.
Return Lukla flights
Kathmandu–Lukla return airfare; seasonal Manthali flights and the necessary road arrangements are confirmed in your quotation.
Accommodation
Two nights in a 3-star Kathmandu hotel and six teahouse nights. Confirm room sharing and bathroom arrangements with your quotation before departing for the trek.
Meals
Kathmandu breakfasts, full board during trekking and a farewell dinner. A cup of tea or coffee accompanies each trekking meal, with seasonal fruit served after dinner during the trek.
Guide and porter
An English-speaking guide and porters; normally one porter for every two trekkers.
Permits and entry fees
Sagarmatha National Park entry permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality entry fee.
Trekking equipment
A sleeping bag, down jacket and duffel bag for use during the trip. Return these items after the programme.
First-aid supplies
A medical kit and first-aid equipment carried by the team.
Staff insurance
Insurance cover for your assigned trekking guide and porter.
Package taxes
Taxes relating to the included trip services are covered in your quotation.
What’s Not Included in the Tengbuche Trek from Lukla
International flights and Nepal visa
Airfare to and from Nepal and your visa fee.
Travel insurance
The cost of your insurance policy, which must cover high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation.
Emergency expenses
Helicopter rescue, evacuation and medical treatment costs are excluded, even when assistance is arranged.
Personal equipment
Boots, clothing and other personal items beyond the sleeping bag, down jacket and duffel bag we provide.
Extra food and drinks
Snacks, bottled water and drinks beyond included meals, seasonal fruit and the tea or coffee allowance.
Other Kathmandu meals
Lunches and dinners apart from the farewell dinner included in Kathmandu.
Teahouse services
Hot showers, Wi-Fi and device charging fees.
Guide and porter tips
Gratuities for your trekking team.
Additional accommodation or transport
Extra costs may apply when delays, itinerary changes or personal extensions require services outside the programme.
Tengbuche Trek from Lukla Dates & Availability
Starting Prices
Transparent Tiered RatesPackage prices are available on request. Send your dates and group size so we can confirm accommodation, flight routing, porter arrangements and your trip quotation.
1 person
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Solo Explorer
2–4 people
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Small Group
5–9 people
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Best Value Deal
10–20 people
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Large Group
Other group sizes
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Custom Group
| Number of travellers | Price per person | Action |
|---|---|---|
| 1 person | Request a quote | |
| 2–4 people | Request a quote | |
| 5–9 people Best Value | Request a quote | |
| 10–20 people | Request a quote | |
| Other group sizes | Request a quote |
Group Departures
If you would like to trek with other travellers, ask us about upcoming group departures. We’ll confirm the available dates, spaces and price for your chosen departure.
04
OCT
Oct 04 – Oct 12, 2026
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15
OCT
Oct 15 – Oct 23, 2026
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What to Pack for the Tengbuche Trek from Lukla
Pack layers for warmer walking days, cold mornings and evenings, and changing weather at higher elevations. Keep water, a warm layer, rain protection, medicines and valuables in your daypack. Use your main duffel for the rest of your belongings.
Hiking Gear
Footwear, daypack, trekking poles and trail essentials
Clothing
Moisture-wicking base layers, warm mid-layers and weather protection
Sleeping Equipment
Sleeping bag, liner and personal overnight rest comfort
Toiletries & Hygiene
Personal hygiene, sun protection, skin care and first aid supplies
Electronics
Headlamp, power banks, camera and universal adapters
Documents & Personal Items
Passports, permits, travel insurance, cash and emergency details
Trek Difficulty and Fitness
The Tengbuche Trek follows walking trails and does not require technical climbing skills. The main challenges are sustained ascents, descents and uneven ground. Climbing to Namche and Tengboche requires steady effort, while the return from Namche to Lukla is a long day with further uphill stretches.
Previous hiking experience is helpful. First-time trekkers should build their endurance before departure and become comfortable walking uphill and downhill with a daypack.
Begin preparing around two to three months beforehand, allowing longer if you are starting from a low fitness level. Gradually combine regular walks, hill hikes and strength exercises. Practise in the boots you will wear on the trek.
Altitude and Acclimatisation
The itinerary includes an acclimatisation day in Namche Bazaar. A shorter hike and another night at the same elevation allow time to adjust, but altitude illness can affect you.
Tell your guide immediately about headaches, nausea, dizziness or unusual fatigue. Do not continue to a higher sleeping altitude while experiencing symptoms of altitude illness. If symptoms worsen despite resting at the same elevation, descent is necessary. Completing the route must remain secondary to your health.
Medical Conditions and Travel Insurance
If you have an existing medical condition, seek advice from a healthcare professional familiar with high-altitude travel before booking. Discuss your planned route and any medicines you take.
Arrange insurance covering the full trekking route, including a possible hike to approximately 3,880 metres, emergency helicopter evacuation and medical treatment in Nepal. Check activity and altitude limits, exclusions, excess charges and the insurer’s assistance procedure. Carry policy details and emergency contact information.
Accommodation and Room Facilities
You stay two nights in a three-star Kathmandu hotel and six nights in teahouses along the route. Confirm room sharing and bathroom arrangements in your quotation before leaving for the mountains.
Rooms and facilities vary between lodges. Expect simpler accommodation at Tengboche, and be prepared for cold nights. Hot showers, charging and internet services cost extra. Confirm bedding, room arrangements and specific comfort requirements before you leave Kathmandu.
Food and Dietary Requirements
Trekking meals include breakfast, lunch and dinner with tea or coffee. Seasonal fruit follows dinner, with a farewell dinner included in Kathmandu.
Tell us about allergies or dietary requirements before booking so we can discuss what can be arranged along the route. Explain any strict requirements clearly, including concerns about shared cooking equipment.
Drinking Water
Carry reusable bottles and drink boiled or appropriately treated water. Water from a clear stream or an untreated tap may still contain germs.
Boiling is the most reliable way to kill germs. If boiling is unavailable, filtration followed by disinfection offers broader protection than many portable filters alone. Follow the instructions for your treatment equipment or tablets.
Guide and Porter Support
An English-speaking guide supports the trek, with porters carrying your luggage. The usual allocation is one porter for two trekkers. Confirm the arrangement and luggage allowance beforehand; you carry your daypack during walks.
Showers, Charging and Communication
Hot showers, Wi-Fi and device charging cost extra, with availability varying between lodges. Mobile reception and internet connections can be unreliable, particularly higher on the route. Carry a power bank and let family know that you may be out of contact for periods of the trek.
Permits and Documents
We arrange the Sagarmatha National Park permit and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality entry permit as part of the package. Carry your passport, insurance details and copies of important documents. Your Nepal visa remains your responsibility.
Flight Delays and Extra Time
Lukla flights can be delayed or cancelled because of weather. During peak periods, flights may use Manthali Airport in Ramechhap, requiring a road transfer.
You fly back on Day 8, before departure on Day 9. There is no buffer day; discuss flexibility and costs if flights are delayed.
Altitude Profile of the Tengbuche Trek from Lukla
Your first trekking night is in Phakding, below Lukla. Overnight stops then rise through Namche Bazaar to Tengboche, the highest place you sleep. The optional acclimatisation hike towards Hotel Everest View may reach higher, before you return to Namche to sleep at the same elevation.
Interactive elevation map showing daily gain and route staging points. Switch units below to convert between metres (m) and feet (ft).
Overnight Altitudes
Overnight Stops & Elevations
Elevations are approximate and follow the overnight stops in our itinerary.
Higher Places You Visit
4 Mountain Waypoints
Lukla Airport
2,860 m
Day 2 — Lukla
Around 2,860 m at the airport, followed by the descent to Phakding.
Sherpa Capital
3,440 m
Day 3 — Namche Bazaar
Around 3,440 m, reached after a climb from the Dudh Koshi valley.
Acclimatisation Ridge
3,880 m
Day 4 — Hotel Everest View
Around 3,880 m if visited, followed by the return to Namche.
High Monastery & Overnight
3,860 m
Day 5 — Tengboche Monastery
Approximately 3,860 m; the village is also your highest overnight stop.
Acclimatisation & Day Hike Note: The extra night in Namche represents your acclimatisation day. Your daytime hike may reach higher than Tengboche, while your highest sleeping stop remains the village.
Weather and Best Time for the Tengbuche Trek from Lukla
Spring, from March to May, and autumn, from September to November, are generally the main seasons for the Tengbuche Trek from Lukla. Both offer favourable walking conditions and opportunities for mountain views, although cold weather, cloud and snowfall remain possible around the higher stages.
Find out the temperature ranges you will experience along the route. Toggle between daily variation and monthly averages, and switch units below to convert between Celsius (°C) and Fahrenheit (°F).
Seasonal Weather Conditions
High Himalayan Climate
These are seasonal patterns; conditions can vary from year to year and during an individual trek.
How Weather Changes Along the Route
Valley to high alpine conditionsWalking around Phakding can feel warmer in sunshine. Namche and Tengboche are cooler, particularly before sunrise and after sunset. Shaded forest sections may also feel cold, even during clear weather.
Even during spring and autumn, nights around Namche and Tengboche can be cold. Wind increases the chill at exposed viewpoints, while rain or snow can affect the trail. Carry warm layers, waterproof clothing and gloves whichever month you choose.
Dress in modular thermal layers with a down jacket ready for sub-zero mornings and evenings.
Which Season Should You Choose?
Seasonal priorities & mountain viewsChoose spring if you prefer warmer walking days and flowering forests. Choose autumn if clearer mountain mornings are your main priority. Winter requires preparation for colder conditions, while monsoon trips need flexibility around rain, slippery trails and possible flight delays.
Monitor daily mountain forecasts with your guide and carry reliable waterproof/windproof gear.
Tengbuche Trek Reviews & Testimonials
4.9 / 5
(142+ Reviews)
Authentic feedback from trekkers who walked the lower Khumbu trail to Tengboche Monastery and experienced the spiritual heart of the Everest region with Igloo Himalaya Treks.
25 October
16 October
29 September
12 October
Tengbuche Trek from Lukla FAQs
Find clear answers regarding walking stages, monastery protocol, acclimatisation, porter support and altitude preparation for this nine-day Khumbu trek.
Route & Monastery
Can I do this trek without previous trekking experience?
Yes, provided you prepare well and have suitable fitness. Previous hiking experience helps, but technical climbing skills are unnecessary. Before departure, practise longer hill walks with a daypack and become comfortable walking uphill and downhill on consecutive days.
What is the highest altitude on this itinerary?
Tengboche, at approximately 3,860 metres, is the highest overnight stop. An optional acclimatisation hike to Hotel Everest View can reach around 3,880 metres. The actual daytime high point depends on the walk chosen from Namche Bazaar.
Can I see Mount Everest from Tengboche Monastery?
Yes, clear weather can offer views towards Everest from the Tengboche area and viewpoints along the route. Ama Dablam is prominent from the monastery village. Cloud can hide the peaks, so mountain visibility is never guaranteed.
What should I know before visiting Tengboche?
Tengboche is an active monastery. Follow current entry instructions, speak quietly and remove footwear where requested. Ask before taking photographs and respect any restrictions inside. Access and opportunities to observe prayers depend on the monastery’s activities and visiting arrangements.
Are acclimatisation days complete rest days?
Day 4 usually includes a shorter hike above Namche Bazaar, followed by another night in the town. The walk may head towards Hotel Everest View, with the route adjusted to conditions and how you feel.
Do I need to carry my main trekking bag?
Porters carry your trekking luggage. The usual allocation is one porter for two trekkers; confirm it beforehand. Carry water, weather protection and daily essentials in your daypack, keeping your passport, money and valuables with you.
Do I need to bring a sleeping bag and down jacket?
We provide a sleeping bag, down jacket and duffel bag for use during the trip. All three must be returned afterwards. Bring your own boots, clothing, toiletries, medicines and electronics, and check equipment suitability before leaving Kathmandu.
Can I book as a solo traveller?
Send us your dates to discuss possible group or private arrangements. Solo rates are not published. We will confirm availability, guide and porter arrangements, accommodation and a written quotation for your preferred nine-day programme beforehand.
Do I need insurance for this shorter trek?
Arrange insurance for the route, including trekking to around 3,880 metres, helicopter evacuation and medical treatment in Nepal. Check activity and altitude limits, exclusions and the assistance procedure. The shorter duration does not remove altitude or evacuation concerns.
Does being fit protect me from altitude sickness?
No. Good fitness helps with the walking demands, but it does not prevent altitude illness. Fit and experienced trekkers can also become unwell. Follow the acclimatisation schedule and report symptoms immediately instead of assuming fitness will protect you.
What should I do if I feel unwell at altitude?
Tell your guide immediately about headaches, nausea, dizziness or unusual fatigue. Do not ascend to a higher sleeping altitude while experiencing symptoms of altitude illness. If symptoms worsen despite rest at the same elevation, descent is necessary.
Does this shorter trek also reach Everest Base Camp?
No. This itinerary turns back from Tengboche and returns through Namche to Lukla. It does not continue to Dingboche, Gorak Shep or Everest Base Camp. Those higher places require a longer programme, with additional walking days and different acclimatisation arrangements.
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14 Days
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Follow the Khumbu trail beyond Tengboche through Dingboche and Lobuche to Everest Base Camp. Hike Kala Patthar and spend acclimatisation days in both Namche and Dingboche before walking back towards Lukla and returning to Kathmandu.
7 Days
Everest View Trek — 7 Days
Follow the lower Khumbu trail through Phakding to Namche, with time for mountain viewpoints around Syangboche and Khumjung. This shorter route returns to Lukla without continuing to Tengboche or Everest Base Camp.
10 Days
Pikey Peak Trek — 10 Days
Explore the lower hills of Solukhumbu on a route reached by road from Kathmandu. Rural village trails lead towards Pikey Peak for mountain views in clear weather, offering a different walking journey from the Lukla and Namche approach.
12 Days
Gokyo Lakes Trek — 12 Days
Explore the Gokyo Valley and its glacial lakes, with a climb to Gokyo Ri for mountain views in clear weather. Choose this route if lakes and a different Everest-region viewpoint interest you more than reaching Base Camp.
Enquire about your preferred package for current prices and availability.