The Khumbu Valley is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Nepal.
Getting some of the best views of Everest is what this trek is all about.
You'll also step back in time a few hundred years with visits to bustling and exciting monasteries including the famed ‘Monkey Temple’.
On this page, you will find a comprehensive and impartial guide to the Khumbu Valley Trek.
Khumbu Valley Trek
On the Khumbu valley trek you’ll be hiking through the beautiful Khumbu Valley towards Mount Everest. En route you'll see some of the other tallest mountains on earth including Lhotse and Ama Dablam.
Khumba Valley hikes can take anywhere from two weeks to a month depending on the route taken.
Please Note: The Khumbu Valley Trek is difficult and demanding in that many days will be spent at high altitude. Its isolation makes medical assistance hard to obtain and turning back in bad weather is nigh-on impossible. Exceptional walking experience and physical fitness are required.
Khumbu Valley Regional Map
Khumbu, in the Everest region, is on the Nepalese side of Mount Everest. Lonely Planet ranked it as the sixth best region in the world in which to travel.
Recommended Map
We recommend taking a detailed trekking map. The region is sparse, and it is possible to get lost in the many valleys that lie on either side of the main trail. The most recent Lonely Planet Trekking in the Nepal Himalaya (Travel Guide) provides the most up to date information and maps of the region.
We have also provided links and recommendations to new guides and maps below.
Khumbu Valley Typical Itinerary
Accommodation on Khumbu valley hikes is either in teahouses or camps.
There are several Khumbu Valley trek itineraries that can be done. If you want to make your own way to Lukla, then you could probably organise this with your operator or guide.
The most common Khumbu valley hikes are:
- Classic hike to Everest base camp
- The circular route to EBC via Gokyo Lakes
- Three passes hike to EBC
- EBC hike including Island Peak
Here are some of the sights you'll see on a hike in the Khumbu valley.
Namche Bazaar
Ama Dablam
The classic EBC hiking route
Island Peak headwall
Gokyo Lakes from Gokyo Ri
Mount Everest in the far background, with prayer flags in the foreground
Lukla airport
Khumbu Valley FAQ
How much does a Khumbu Valley trek cost?
The price of a Khumbu Valley hike ranges from $1,000 for standard EBC treks to $5000 for treks that include trekking peaks like Island Peak.
Are permits required for a Khumbu Valley hike?
Yes, you require a permit to hike in the Khumbu Valley. You get the permit from Sagarmatha National Park, which costs about $30 and a Trekkers Information Management System card.
When is the best time to do a Khumbu Valley trek?
The best times to do a Khumbu Valley trek are March to May and late September to late November. The peak period is October and November, when weather is usually stable and visibility excellent. In the earlier, pre-monsoon period, there is much spring growth, but conditions can vary.
Is altitude sickness a risk on a Khumbu Valley trek?
Yes, altitude sickness is a risk because Khumba Valley hikes ascends to some high altitude points.
Therefore, it is important to have a clear understanding of the risks associated with high altitude trekking and how the body acclimatises to high altitude.
How difficult are Khumbu Valley treks?
The Khumbu Valley treks are considered difficult as there is a lot of hiking at high altitude for many days. Some inclines are steep, and you will be walking for a good 6-7 hours per day for over 3 weeks on the longer trails. A good level of fitness and determination is required.
What gear do I need for a hike in the Khumbu Valley?
Trekking the Khumba Valley requires a number of essential pieces of trekking gear. Khumba Valley treks are long and moderately difficult, exposing you to a range of altitudes where temperatures fluctuate dramatically between night and day.
Much of your gear can be rented or bought in Kathmandu, but we strongly suggest bringing the most important pieces of gear and equipment with you.
To help you plan and prepare for your trek, we recommend reading our hiking gear list article.
Do I need trekking insurance for a Khumbu Valley trek?
Yes, you do. Trekking insurance is vital in Nepal in general. This is particularly true on any Khumba Valley trek.
Do I need climbing insurance for the Khumbu Valley trek?
If your Khumbu hike includes a trekking peak like Island Peak then yes, climbing insurance is vital.
Please read our article on travel and trekking insurance in Nepal. The article provides great information on what type of insurance you'd need.
Are there any recommended guidebooks for the Khumbu Valley?
Yes, there are. We recommend Everest: A Trekker's Guide: Trekking routes in Nepal and Tibet by Cicerone Guides.
You are also welcome to have a look at our recommended list of Nepal books and guidebooks library for more options.
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Hello!!
I’m considering going for a trek in the Khumbu Valley in November. I would like two do a two week hike (the one you offer here is too long). I have two questions, hopefully you can help me:
– What’s the average temperature and weather stability like in this region in November?
– Is there a significant difference between first two weeks and last two weeks? I was wondering if it’s worth considering the Tihar Festivities so that travel timing matches being in a particular location?
Thank you!
Maite
Hi Maite, this trek can be completed in two weeks. The suggested itinerary on this page is just an example, there are many variations. November is generally quite cold with lots of snow higher up the trail. make sure to take good quality gear and layered clothing. There isn’t much of a difference in weather between the beginning and end of November so if you want to time your trek with the Tihar Festivities I wouldn’t let the potential weather differences hold you back. Hope this helps!
Hey do you have any recommandations on local tour agencies to do the trek?
Hi Salome, I recommend checking out: https://www.skyhookadventure.com/trips/everest-base-camp