Everest Yeti Trail – Staying at Mountain Lodges of Nepal

The Everest Yeti Trail passes through a route long known as the habitat of mythical creatures, especially the Big Foot, otherwise known as the Yeti. Yeti legend dates back a thousand years when there were stories about a terrible creature roaming the Himalayas. The Yeti’s legends are never-ending. There has been evidence of the creature’s existence in the mountains in the past hundred years.

Among all the other places in the Himalayas, Thame in the Everest region holds the most stories about the Big Foot. The location is also best known as the birthplace of Tenzing Norgay Sherpa and several other accomplished mountaineers. To this date, several expeditions have been on the Everest Yeti Trail.

Read until the end of this article to know everything you’ll need about the Everest Yeti Trail!

Role of Yeti in the Formation of Everest Yeti Trail

Yeti played a significant role in the formation of the Everest Yeti Trail. One cannot tell for sure, even today, whether it was the Yeti who had set the pathway of the current day Yeti trail in Everest.

The beliefs for the same, whatsoever, have remained constant through the years.

Are Yetis Real?

Yeti is one of the most sought-after creatures. They have now been labeled mythical and only remain in parts of folklore stories. But you may be too quick to realize that they are not real. Archaeologists and researchers have discovered the existence of these enormous creatures several times. Their existence had been dismissed as being mistaken for another creature.

Several times in the past, the researchers have matched the DNA of what were reported to be the skeletons of Yeti with that of a bear. Not much to their surprise, the DNAs matched, which further proved that the skeleton did not belong to a Big Foot.

Mount Everest, the tallest mountain in the world, has not yet been discovered entirely. Ever since mountaineering expeditions began in the 1950s, several claims about Yeti sightings have been made, none of which have been proven until now.

Mountaineers, Thame locals, and visitors to the Everest region have claimed to have spotted gigantic and ferocious creatures in the wildest parts of the Himalayas. Many of these claims have shed light on the possibility of the animals hiding in places humans cannot reach.

The old folklore and children’s stories from the Himalayas of Nepal, whatsoever, suggest that most of the tales were made up to discipline little children, which later transformed to become mythical stories that may or may not have been confirmed in the first place, much similar to the stories of Santa Claus in the west.

Yeti’s Influence on the Sherpa Culture

The Yeti plays a significant role in Sherpa culture. You can find the human-like creature in different art forms and storybooks, and it is mentioned in folk songs and dances. In ancient times, the Sherpas used to refer to the Yeti as “Meto Kongka.” While there are different assumptions about where the discussions about the animal started, many in the past believed that the Yetis protected the villages and the Himalayas.

That said, generations of Sherpas have believed in never hunting down the creature as it holds a spiritual significance in their history. Several regions in the Everest region have also been restricted to visitors, though not as much as many other mountains in and around Nepal, to protect nature. The reality of the Yetis has been limited to one’s imagination, but the truth about their existence has yet to be dismissed by the locals and experts.

Hence, the Everest Yeti Trail can be concluded to have been named after the mythical animal based on its assumed existence on the Himalayan pathways.

Everest Yeti Trail Highlights

The Everest Yeti Trail is much like any other trail you may take during your visit to the Everest region. The trail is as comfortable as it can get in an Everest region trek. Similarly, you will explore the beautiful Thame during your trek here. The places to stay and eat are simple yet full of conveniences. Moreover, Thame also used to be the main trading point between Nepal and Tibet, which has made it a hub for better facilities and a marketplace even today.

While you can enjoy comfortable hospitality wherever you go during your visit, there won’t be an end to aesthetic pleasures for your eyes either. The majestic mountains shine bright against the sunlight, and the sunset has just as extravagant a view. Though the landscapes are not as green as you may see in the hilly region of the country, they won’t be less of a brilliant sight for the onlookers either.

The following are some of the main highlights of the Everest Yeti Trail:

Close View of Mount Everest

You don’t necessarily have to climb Mount Everest when you are on the Everest Yeti Trail. It is one of the most straightforward trails to take in the region. This does not mean that you will not be getting the best possible sight of the highest peak in the world. Regardless of which part of the trail you are in, the beauty of the mountains will keep you occupied and steal your heart. The sight will be as close as it can get.

Cultural Exploration

The cultural exploration you’ll have during the Everest Yeti Trail experience will last in your mind for a lifetime. People in the region are very inviting and hospitable to the visitors. Most of the locals in the area are also engaged in the hospitality sector, where they not only help the visitors or the trekkers with accommodation and food but also engage them in various cultural activities.

The Sherpa culture dominates almost the entirety of the Everest region. You will find the influence of Sherpa culture in the lifestyle, food, houses, and even the pathways of the Everest Yeti Trail journey. If you visit the location during peak seasons, there is just as big of a likelihood for you to become a part of various celebrations in the region as well.

Stories about Yeti

If you are an enthusiast of folklore and history, this journey will give you insight into authentic stories that have been told since the beginning of the myth. Stories and tales about terrible creatures have been told for generations, and people of all ages know them. You can reach out to just about anyone of any age, and you are likely to hear stories that will have you thinking about the realities and what may be the truth behind the legends of Yeti. This is one of the major highlights of your Everest Yeti Trail.

Wildlife Exploration

The wildlife in the Everest region is another fantastic highlight of your journey. Many animals and birds have gone almost extinct in Nepal, which you will find during your time on the Everest Yeti Trail. Himalayan tahr, musk deer, and the red panda are some animals commonly found in the Everest Yeti Trail region. You are less likely to see the same animals in most other locations in Nepal. Additionally, trekkers can enjoy the sight of the national birds Danphe and Himalayan Monal during their tour.

Historical Landmarks

Several locations on the Everest Yeti Trail are known for their historical significance. Visitors can enjoy views of the ever-flowing Dudh Koshi, the lively Namche Bazaar, and the only place with an airport in the region, Lukla. They can also enjoy beautiful cultural sites, including monasteries and temples built many years ago by the locals and some made with aid from mountain enthusiasts.

Adventurous Journeys

Everest Yeti Trail is more than just a journey in itself. There are plenty of other adventurous journeys you can explore in the region. Besides just visiting the location, you can go on rock climbing, mountain expeditions to a shorter distance in Everest, day hikes, and glacier walking. If you are an adrenaline junkie, then there is a possibility that you won’t find yourself getting bored even in an instant during the journey. There is so much to do and explore!

Route of Everest Yeti Trail Mountain Lodges of Nepal

The Everest Yeti Trail route is going to be one that will keep you awake from beginning to end. Not only is the destination but also the pathway or the path you take very interesting and gives you much to discover. You will drive from Kathmandu to Ramechhap at the start. Then, you will proceed to take a flight to Lukla. Lukla’s flight is likely to be delayed if you do not choose the right time of the year to fly. The flight is going to be at least 4 hours long.

After the flight, you will finally hike towards Phakding. Your hike uphill will begin when you cross Dudh Koshi (a river originating from Mount Everest). Trekkers will then proceed towards Namche Bazaar. Trekking towards Namche Bazaar, you can cross two swing bridges, which will become a mini adventure for all.

Having crossed Namche Bazaar, you will finally head towards your primary destination, Thame. Thame is best known for its monastery. There, you will move to a lodge, where you will stay for your Everest Yeti Trail journey.

Once you have completed your time there, you will descend towards Phakding and Lukla, eventually heading home via Kathmandu.

Itinerary for Everest Yeti Trail

Trekkers should take at least two weeks off their usual schedule for the Everest Yeti Trail. The trial is going to be around 13 days, starting to end. The following is the itinerary for the Everest Yeti Trail:

Day 1: Arrival at Kathmandu

The first day of your trip to the Everest Yeti Trail will start in Kathmandu. You will be picked up from the airport and dropped off at a hotel in Kathmandu. The hustling and bustling city will be quite a kickstart for your journey, which will be serene and quiet as the days proceed. The city is as vibrant as ever, and you can also go sightseeing briefly. Or, you can spend the rest of your day in your hotel. The Kathmandu hotel will be extravagantly luxurious and give you several facilities that will make the first day of your trip very special.

Day 2: Fly to Lukla and Hike to Phakding

On the second day, you will go from Kathmandu to Ramechhap. From there, you are going to fly to Lukla by air. The journey is going to be an adventure in itself. There are several beautiful mountains and brilliant sights to acknowledge in your way.

You will be going through the city and then moving towards one of the most rural parts of Nepal. Once you’ve landed, you will hike to Phakding after a short trek around Lukla. Phakding is going to be your location for a night in. You will have your dinner at a lodge here.

Day 3: Trek to Namche Bazaar

This day will be as exciting as possible for a trekker who loves adventure and exploration. Namche Bazaar is the largest marketplace in the Khumbu region. There are plenty of markets to explore here. If you’re lucky and there on a Saturday, you will also get to explore the Saturday market, where you can buy beautiful and unique souvenirs to take home. The locals also sell equipment for mountaineering here. Also, you can buy organic vegetables, dairy products, candles, etc. here.

Moreover, Namche Bazaar is the most developed place among all the other places in the Everest region. So, you will likely get plenty of facilities and aspects for discovery here, visually and resource-wise. Trekkers will spend a night here after a day of trekking from Phakding.

Day 4: Namche Exploration

The fourth day will be spent exploring Namche. The scenic little town will allow you to acclimate to the journey ahead. There are plenty of religious and spiritual landmarks to visit on this day. Namche Bazaar will give you much to explore, from the best places to have your lunch to the best locations to rest and enjoy a view of the Himalayas.

Many trekkers tired from trekking will likely take this day off from hikes and rest in their lodges. This is perfect if you want to enjoy the surroundings instead of working your body off touring around. Trekkers can proceed with preparation for the next day of the trek.

Day 5: Trek to Khumjung Village

Thame is the highlight of your Everest Yeti Trail journey. During this time, you will go on the most fantastic trek with one of the most spectacular views of the Everest region. This trek is likely to be tiring compared to the ones you have taken before.

But, the rest or acclimatization day you took at the Namche Bazaar will come to your advantage on this day. You will also get to go on a brief excursion to Thamo, the birthplace of Ang Rita Sherpa. The natural marvel here is worth a whole day. Once you’ve completed touring the location, you will settle in Khumjung Everest Sherpa Resort Lodge at the end of the day.

Day 6: Khumjung Excursion

On this day, you will go on a complete excursion to the lively destination, a significant landmark in the Everest Yeti Trail. The excursion to Thame will take an entire day, so you must keep energized with a hearty breakfast from the start of the day. On this day, you can visit the famous Thame monastery.

There are plenty of ancient monasteries and artifacts to explore around the location. Once you’ve completed your excursion in Thame, you can head towards Sumdur Peak Ridge. The mountains and landscapes here will keep visitors invested in nature and carrying on their trek.

Day 7: Trek to Kongde

Finally, you will be heading towards Kongde, which makes your Everest Yeti Trail journey extraordinary! Nothing will impress you on this particular day, from the mountain trees to the cultural elements. Kongde’s Lodge will also be where you can best find beauty while doing nothing. Trekking to Kongde, however, can be difficult for a beginner. But how this day will end will make up for your initial little challenges. The dinner will be served hot during your stay, and you can rest while preparing for the next day.

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Day 8: Trek to Farak Ri

From Kondge, you will be ascending a little higher to Farak Ri. You will get a stunning view of Mount Everest when you are here. You can bask in the sun’s warmth as you move upwards and finally relax as you reach the highest destination in the Everest Yeti Trail path. You will, further, be able to uncover what may have once been the habitat or the pathway carved by the Yetis as you ascend and descend from Farak Ri back to Kongde. Trekkers will, yet again, spend the rest of the day resting at Kongde.

Day 9: Trek to Phakding

You will now be trekking to Phakding. This will also be your day of bidding farewell to Kongde. On your way back, we assure you that it’ll be much easier to trek as you will be descending. The rest of your trek will be smoother than it had started. You can rediscover all the places left behind while hiking uphill. Then, you will finally reach your lodge and spend the night there.

Day 10: Trek to Lukla

This will be your last day in the Everest region. You will trek to Lukla from Phakding after having a hearty breakfast. This trek might be shorter than the one you took ascending, as it takes less time to descend. Since you will have been used to the trekking and the trail conditions by this time, the last day is likely more accessible than any other day. Also, you will get plenty of elements to go through and enjoy on this day. Trekkers will spend a night at a lodge here.

Day 11: Fly Back to Kathmandu

You will finally be flying back to the capital city on this day. This will mark the end of your journey on the Everest Yeti Trail. But more exploration and experience await you in Kathmandu once you return. Returning from Lukla to Kathmandu might take an entire day. You will return to your hotel and have a good night of rest and an adequate dinner preparing for your Kathmandu excursion.

Day 12: Kathmandu Tour

You will roam around the city whenever you wish, starting in the morning and stretching the tour till evening. In a single day, you can go to museums, temples, and monasteries and explore small souvenir shops and eateries that best showcase the traditions of the ancient city.

There are at least three cities you can go to if you want to take a peek at what it was like in the old Royal cities ruled for hundreds of years by kings from different dynasties. You can also visit several World Heritage Sites in the capital throughout the day. As the dawn enters your journey, you can shift to your hotel and prepare for your departure the next day.

Day 13: Departure from Kathmandu

Having completed your tour of the Everest Yeti Trail and the capital city, you will finally head home from Kathmandu’s international airport. Our representatives will bid you goodbye from here on. You can travel with many memories to cherish and tell your family back home. We assure you of the memoirs of a lifetime!

Choosing the Best Time For Everest Yeti Trail- Mountain Lodge of Nepal

Trekkers must choose the right time of the year for their Everest Yeti Trail tour. The visit will be as good as you make it, meaning you must select the best time to get the best out of your trip. Among all the other seasons in a year, fall and spring are the most preferable ones.

The weather, the temperature, amenities, and the trail conditions are all favorable for the trekkers during these seasons. Likewise, you don’t necessarily have to undergo as many challenges as you may have to if you opt for any other season for your visit. Visiting Everest Yeti Trail might be one of the best decisions you can make if you plan to see it in the fall or spring of next year.

Everest Yeti Trail cost

The 13-day Everest Yeti Trail package, which includes a Lukla flight and three nights in a 5-star hotel in Kathmandu, starts at USD 3450 per person.

The following are some features about every season for the Everest Yeti Trail visit:

Spring

You are likely to see bloom during spring, and the wildlife is also out from hibernation. The air is usually chill, and you don’t have to stress much about choosing the right pair of clothes and shoes for your journey, as you don’t have to carry more or less.

The air is as fresh as it can get since the greenery in the region is at its peak, though not in abundance, due to the region’s nature. If you are a photographer or just an aesthete with an eye for beauty, you can benefit from spring through your eyes since the mountains have the clearest views and can see breathtaking sights wherever you go.

Fall

Fall will be warmer than spring, depending on which month you choose for your tour. Since the monsoon will just have ended, you won’t have to face the dread of trekking or touring through muddy trails during this season. The onlookers will enjoy the sight of dried leaves falling off the trees and the beauty of the surroundings when the air is clear.

There is no cloud hampering your sight in the fall, either. This is possibly one of the best seasons to choose for your Everest Yeti Trail after spring. And there won’t be much of an issue in selecting the clothes and shoes to wear during this season either.

Monsoon/Summer

Monsoon and summer might be the most challenging seasons for your Everest Yeti Trail journey. During these seasons, you will face lots of difficulties in covering pathways through and through every day. The muddy trails can become your reason to postpone your day hikes since you want to remain safe throughout the trek.

Also, you might face canceled flights during this season as the clouds are never safe for flight travelers during the monsoon season. Summer can cause trekkers to suffocate in the heat as the trail moves uphill. The only good thing about traveling in either of the seasons would be that there won’t be excessive crowds in accommodations, and the prices of tickets almost everywhere will likely be lower.

Winter

Winter is another season that has never been in hype unless trekkers have sought complex journeys to the Everest region to beat their records. If you are a traveler without much mountaineering expertise, you should choose peak seasons instead of taking the risk of going there in winter. Winters are frigid in the Himalayan region of Nepal. There is a possibility that you might also have to face frost bites and altitude sickness during this season.

Winter will also make you prone to nausea while trekking since breathing at an average pace can be challenging. To remain on the safer side, it is suggested that you not opt for travel during this season. In addition to these drawbacks, you will not be able to fully enjoy the view of the surroundings as visitors will close many areas. Naturally, there will be several limitations. Again, one of the few benefits is that the tickets for almost every tour aspect are likely cheaper.

What are the Packing Essentials for the Everest Yeti Trail?

It would help to be mindful of your pack for the Everest Yeti Trail. There is a list of things to carry on the trek. The following sums up the most essential ones:

• Duffel bag/extra backpack
• Windproof jacket
• Water and windproof trousers
• Thermal tops and bottoms
• Gloves (both single and double-layered)
• Ankle support boots best suited for trekking
• Thin cotton T-shirts
• Shorts (for hotter months)
• Woolen hats/ balaclava
• Sunhats
• Thermal socks
• Cotton undergarments
• Sunglasses
• Headlamps
• Trekking poles
• Ropes
• Buff
• Miscellaneous (camera, books, journals, extra money, etc.)
• Permits and tickets as per necessity
• Plastic bags to organize your things
• Chargers
• Powerbank
• Extra money (cash)
• Sunscreen
• Moisturizer
• Sanitary products (for women)
• Lip balm
• Hand sanitizer
• Soap, body wash, hand wash, etc.
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.
• Hairdryer (not compulsory)
• Water bottle
• Water purifier
• First-aid kit

What Can Be Provided to Visitors During the Tour?

While packing your stuff can be extremely crucial, remembering all the items you need during your journey can be just as tricky. Making blunders here and there while you pack is entirely normal and common among trekkers.

In case you forget any essentials, we will be providing you with the following (only to borrow):

• Duffel bag
• Trekking pole
• Sleeping bag

Different Lodges To Stay During Your Journey to Everest Yeti Trail

Accommodation is a significant part of your journey to the Everest Yeti Trail. Where you live determines whether you will enjoy your trek or face challenges even during your stay. With our expertise, you can least expect to face any inconveniences, especially when selecting the right place to stay.

The following is a list of lodges, which are also the best available ones in Thame, where you will be staying:

• Kongde Lodge
• Phakding Lodge
• Lukla Lodge
• Monjo Lodge
• Namche Lodge

These lodges are all in different altitudes and will be your stay-ins throughout the journey!

What Can You Expect From Accommodation Facilities in Everest Yeti Trail?

The Everest Yeti Trail will have the most suited facilities and amenities for all types of visitors. Even beginners won’t face difficulties finding the right amenities around the trip. You won’t have to worry about anything from decent toilets to hygienic food and bedding.

The following is a list of elements to expect from accommodation facilities on the Everest Yeti Trail:

Bedrooms

The bedrooms are comfortable and give you a direct view of the surroundings. Every lodge you stay in will provide you with the most beautiful views possible. You can choose from a single to double bedroom in most stay-ins. Furthermore, the blankets and pillows in these hotels will also be clean. Many visitors carry pillowcases to ensure hygiene; you also have that option. All rooms are going to be adequately spacious and have proper ventilation.

Bathroom

The bathrooms in the region’s lodges will be clean and may have Western-style and traditional toilet seats. Either way, you will have plenty of water facilities and can shower whenever you wish to. You can also request warm or hot water in exchange for a small pay at the lodges. The bathrooms may not have good facilities for shampoo and body wash. Therefore, it is best to carry such essentials of your own.

Food and Drinks

The food and drinks you get on the Everest Yeti Trail will be mostly Sherpa or traditional Nepali food. Upon demand, most lodges also provide you with a menu that includes Western cuisines, though not all are likely to have this option. The traditional menu will consist of energizing food like lentil soup, rice, vegetables, meat curry, and a traditional food made of millet called Dhindo.

There may also be options for pasta, bread, soups, juices, and energy bars that you can use as snacks. Sherpa cuisine usually includes different meat dishes and breads that are rare to find elsewhere. Most food is made organically, while others are imported from the city.

Wi-Fi and Network Facility

Unlike in the past, the Everest region has offered good internet connectivity and a good network connection almost everywhere in your destination. Therefore, you can easily enjoy the Wi-Fi facility at a small charge. You can buy data packages through a SIM card and enjoy unlimited internet. You will likely find charging ports that will also help charge your devices.

Trekkers Guide for Everest Yeti Trail

Before you begin your journey, there are a few things that just cannot be ignored. If you take care of the following points from beginning to end, you will enjoy your trek to the fullest!

Permits and Documentation

The Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) card are mandatory permits for your trek to the Everest Yeti Trail. The validity of the treks can be proven by getting them from relevant checkpoints only. Having done your documentation and taken the necessary permits, you can ensure that you contribute to nature conservation and promote tourism in the Everest region as a responsible visitor.

Fitness and Health

Trekkers must be both fit and healthy before starting their journey. Fitness level can be almost a compulsion as you must cover a good amount of distance uphill throughout the journey. If you have severe health conditions, it might be best to consult a physician before confirming your trip. Make sure to carry medications and a first aid box with you at all times.

Guides and Porters

Hiring a guide and porters to carry your stuff during the journey is best. This may stretch your budget a little, but it will help you cover the distance along the pathway without hassle.

Alternative Plans

It would help if you always had alternative plans for when things may not go according to plan. You may have to face issues with the weather or uncalled circumstances. Be prepared for everything. It is best to take a few days more than what has been preplanned for your trek to avoid inconveniences in schedules and routines.

Conclusion

Trekking the Everest Yeti Trail will give you an insight into how it might have been for the locals and even the mythical creature, Yeti, to live in a location filled with snow and such enchanting views. The trails are promising for visitors, regardless of their expertise in treks and mountaineering. Traversing through the paths that were known to be put into place by the footprints of Yeti has now been made possible through the Everest Yeti Trail.