Thame, the legendary
High Peaks, High Passes 13 days Charm & Character

Thame, the legendary

At the end of the Khumbu valley, Thame reveals the authentic soul of Sherpa country.

From€2,390per person
12 years of local expertise4.75/5 (12 reviews including 5 Google)

Duration

13 days

From

€2,390/pers.

Ideal seasons

Mar, Apr, May, Oct, Nov

Style

Guided tour

Comfort

Charm & Character

Travelers

Couple, Solo, With friends

The spirit of travel

Set off on a trip to Népal, including 8 days of moderate-level trekking in the heart of the Himalayas. This circuit invites you to discover Sherpa culture, the landscapes of the Khumbu and the village of Thame, renowned for its authenticity and traditions. Designed to offer a balance between trekking, cultural visits and local encounters, this itinerary takes you far from the busy trails leading to Everest Base Camp. You follow ancient caravan routes that once connected Népal to Tibet, through stone villages, rhododendron and pine forests, as well as high-altitude landscapes dominated by Himalayan peaks.

A day of acclimatization in Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa capital, allows you to discover local life while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

You then continue your adventure to Thame, located at the end of the Khumbu valley. This traditional village is notably known as the birthplace of several renowned Sherpas who successfully summited Everest. The discovery of its Buddhist monastery and peaceful atmosphere immerses you in the spiritual and cultural traditions of the Himalayas. Throughout your trekking, you stay in lodges of the Yeti Mountain Home chain, located in Phakding, Namche, Thame, Monjo and Lukla, to enjoy moments of rest after your days of hiking.

A trip combining hiking in the Himalayas, discovery of Sherpa heritage and immersion in the villages of the Khumbu, to explore another facet of Népal.

The stages of your journey

D1–2
KatmandouGokarna Forest Resort
D3
PhakdingYeti Mountain Home - Phakding
D4
MonjoYeti Mountain Home - Monjo
D5–6
Namche Yeti Mountain Home - Namche
D7–8
ThameYeti Mountain Home - Thame
D9
NamcheYeti Mountain Home - Namche
D10
LuklaYeti Mountain Home - Lukla
D11–13
KatmandouGokarna Forest Resort

Highlights

Authentic Village of Thame
Everest Panorama and Ama Dablam
Lodges Yeti Mountain Home
Sherpa Culture Preserved
Secret Valley of the Khumbu
Sumdur Viewpoint

Day-by-day itinerary

Jour 1
D1

Arrival in Kathmandu

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you are welcomed by our local representative, who will accompany you to your hotel during a short transfer by car. You can then settle in and enjoy some rest after your journey.

A welcome drink will give us the opportunity to present your stay program and discuss the necessary documents to obtain your trekking permit.

Gokarna Forest Resort
Jour 2
D2

Visit of the Kathmandu Valley

Today, you are setting off on a guided tour of the main cultural and religious sites in the Katmandu valley, discovering Népal's heritage.

Your day begins at Pashupatinath, one of South Asia's sacred temples, dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. On the banks of the river, you can observe Hindu cremation rituals, which recall those practiced in Varanasi (Benares), in India.

You continue your visit with the famous stupa of Bouddhanath, one of the region's principal Buddhist sanctuaries. Surrounded by numerous monasteries and Tibetan shops, this place bears witness to the importance of Buddhist traditions in Népal.

Finally, you reach Bhaktapur, an ancient medieval and royal city, primarily inhabited by the Newar community, who are predominantly Hindu. You discover its historic squares and monuments with rich artistic heritage, testifying to the history and traditional architecture of the Katmandu valley.

Gokarna Forest ResortBreakfast
Jour 3
D3

Flight to Lukla and start of our trek!

Katmandou → Lukla

30min150 km

Your day begins early with a short scenic flight to your trekking starting point. During the journey, you discover the mountainous landscapes of the Himalaya, with views of the Langtang and Jugal Himal ranges, passing through Rolwaling, Gaurisankar and Menlumtse. A first glimpse of the Himalayan peaks that marks the beginning of your adventure in Népal.

Lukla → Phakding

4h7 km

Your trek in the Khumbu region begins at the gate of Khumbu, at the entrance to the village of Lukla. Throughout your walk, several stops allow you to meet the locals, take photos and admire the landscapes, dominated by snow-capped peaks reaching 6,000 meters. Along the way, you pass near the impressive mani stone of Thado Kosi, engraved with prayers, then skirt the chortens and prayer mills of Sano, witnesses to local spiritual traditions. The afternoon is free for you to rest or explore the surroundings at your own pace. If you wish, you can join a small gompa overlooking the village.

In the evening, you gather around an aperitif by the fire, before sharing dinner in a friendly atmosphere.

Yeti Mountain Home - PhakdingBreakfastLunchDinner
Jour 4
D4

Trekking from Lukla to Monjo

Phakding → Monjo

3h6 km

After breakfast, you continue your trek towards the village of Monjo. The trail winds along the right bank of the Dudh Koshi River, crosses the village of Phakding, then takes several suspension bridges over the river. You continue your walk through a forest of pine trees and small Nepalese villages, before taking a break to admire Thamserku peak, whose summit reaches an altitude of 6,623 meters.

After a few hours of hiking and crossing new suspension bridges, you reach the village of Monjo, the next stage of your trek in the Khumbu region.

Yeti Mountain Home - MonjoBreakfastLunchDinner
Jour 5
D5–6

First view of Everest

Monjo → Namche

4h306 km

Day 5 – Ascent to Namche Bazaar

Shortly after leaving the lodge, you reach the entrance to the Sagarmatha National Park. While your guides take care of trekking permits, you can explore the park's 3D map and check out the information panels.

You then continue your hike for about forty minutes along the Dudh Koshi river, before crossing its tributary, the Bhote Koshi, and beginning your ascent to Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa capital, renowned for its lively atmosphere and colorful shops.

The trail gradually moves away from the river and climbs in switchbacks through mountainous landscapes. You gradually reach the tree line, before emerging into a high-altitude basin where the village of Namche Bazaar is nestled.

Day 6 – Acclimatization in the Khumbu Valley

This day is dedicated to your acclimatization to the altitude and discovery of Namche Bazaar. You start with a short walk to allow your body to gradually adapt to the mountainous environment.

The afternoon is free for you to browse the shops and cafés of Namche Bazaar. As you explore, your guide will lead you to several viewpoints offering beautiful panoramas of the Himalayan peaks. You will be able to admire Nuptse, Everest and Ama Dablam, which dominate the deep valleys of Khumbu.

If your physical condition permits, you can extend your walk to the villages of Khumjung and Kunde. These villages are home to a school and a health clinic, created thanks to the support of the Sir Edmund Hillary Foundation.

Yeti Mountain Home - NamcheBreakfastLunchDinner
Jour 7
D7–8

Nights around Thame village

Namche → Thame

5h9 km

Day 7 – Hiking from Namche to Thame

You leave Namche Bazaar to take a balcony trail crossing pine and rhododendron forests, dotted with small traditional villages. Less frequented by trekkers than the valley leading to Everest, this region of Népal offers immersion in a preserved environment, conducive to discovering local life and Himalayan fauna. You may notably observe musk deer, pheasants and Himalayan tahrs. Your hike continues with the crossing of the Bhote Koshi river. Depending on your wishes, you can extend the day by visiting the gompa located above the village of Thame, a place of Buddhist spirituality.

Day 8 – Panoramas from the Sumdur viewpoint

Today, you set out on a hike along the Sumdur ridge, on a trail presenting no particular technical difficulty.

Your walk takes you to the Sumdur viewpoint, from where you enjoy a vast panorama of the mountains near the Tibetan border.

You can notably admire the deep Nangpa La valley, Pasang Lhamu Peak and Cho Oyu, culminating at 8,201 meters, as well as numerous Himalayan peaks rising between 6,000 and 7,000 meters in altitude.

Yeti Mountain Home - Thame
Jour 9
D9

Return to Namche

Thame → Namche

5h9 km

You set off early in the morning to resume your trek towards Namche Bazaar. Along the way, you cross several long suspension bridges, before reaching the village of Namche.

Yeti Mountain Home - NamcheLunchDinner
Jour 10
D10

Descent to Lukla

Namche → Phakding

4h11 km

After your stay in Namche Bazaar, you resume your journey towards Phakding. The winding trail crosses lush forests, before reaching the luxuriant vegetation of the valley. During your hike, you may have the chance to spot a resplendent lophophore (Danfe), a bird with colorful plumage, close to the peacock and considered as the national emblem of Népal.

Upon your arrival at Phakding, you enjoy a break for lunch.

Phakding → Lukla

3h8 km

After lunch, you resume your walk to reach Lukla, approximately 3 hours of trekking away. This final stage of your trek includes one last climb with a positive elevation gain of 200 meters. Along the way, you can take a break for a drink and, if you wish, visit the school of Chaurikharka as well as the Kyongma monastery.

Upon your arrival in Lukla, it's time to say goodbye to your trekking team, with whom you have shared this adventure in the Himalaya. You then spend your last night in the mountains.

Yeti Mountain Home - LuklaBreakfastLunchDinner
Jour 11
D11

Flight to Kathmandu

Lukla → Katmandou

30min150 km

After breakfast, you take your return flight to Katmandu. This short flight offers you, weather permitting, beautiful panoramas of the Himalaya mountains, an opportunity to admire one last time the landscapes that accompanied your trek.

Upon your arrival at Katmandu airport, you are transferred to your hotel, where you can settle in and enjoy a moment of rest after your mountain adventure.

Gokarna Forest ResortBreakfastLunchDinner
Jour 12
D12

Free day in Kathmandu

Today, enjoy a free day in Katmandu to explore the Nepali capital at your own pace. You can choose to stroll through its streets or request a guided tour of the city's main sites. For a more immersive experience, we invite you to participate in an activity with a traditional craftsman. Depending on your preferences, you can learn about Nepali cuisine, sculpture, painting or music, among other possibilities. A fun experience to share with your family, to discover local expertise and bring back authentic souvenirs from your trip.

Gokarna Forest ResortBreakfastLunchDinner
Jour 13
D13

Good return and see you next time!

Depending on your flight schedule, you will benefit from a transfer to the international airport, scheduled approximately 3 hours before your departure, for your return flight.

Breakfast

Price per person

1 pers.€3,490/pers.
2 pers.€2,590/pers.
3-8 pers.€2,490/pers.
9-10 pers.€2,390/pers.

Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.

This trip can be tailored to your preferences

This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.

Not included

  • Travel insurance: cancellation / repatriation / trip interruption / baggage loss
  • English-speaking guide supplement: 400 EURO
  • International flights
  • Visa fees 30 USD for 15 Days
  • Tips
  • Personal expenses: drinks, souvenirs, phone, spa, etc.
  • Lunch and dinner meals in Kathmandu.

Included

  • Land transfers described in the program
  • Domestic flights: Kathmandu - Lukla round trip
  • Accommodation at Gokarna Resort for 4 nights in Kathmandu with breakfast (double room)
  • Accommodation at Yeti Mountain Home Lode for 8 nights with full board (double room)
  • Guidance by an English-speaking Nepalese guide and a porter for every 2 participants
  • Entrances in Everest National Park and TIMS card
  • Entrance fees for temples and monuments during your visit to Katmandou.
  • Daily fees and insurance for Nepalese local teams
  • Your travel advisor's assistance 24/7.

Practical Information

Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.

The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.

See our specific terms of sale for full details.

In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:

  • Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 40 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
  • Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
  • Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total

We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.

The information below concerns travelers who are nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland, and Canada traveling to Nepal for a tourist stay. Since entry rules may change, we recommend that you verify this information with the official authorities before your departure.

Passport

To enter Nepal, your passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the date of entry into the country and must have at least two blank pages for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn, or altered pages).

Tourist visa

Unlike some destinations, Nepal does not grant visa exemptions to nationals of the European Economic Area, Switzerland, and Canada. A tourist visa is mandatory to enter the territory.

This visa can be obtained in two ways:

  • On arrival (visa on arrival): available at the main entry points, notably Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and certain land border crossings. It is strongly recommended to complete the application form online before departure to facilitate procedures on site.

  • Online before departure: via the official online visa system of the Nepalese government (online visa application), allowing you to obtain prior authorization to present upon arrival.

Official rates are as follows:

  • 15 days: 30 USD

  • 30 days: 50 USD

  • 90 days: 125 USD

Payment is generally made in cash (USD, EUR, or other accepted currencies) or by credit card depending on the entry points. It is advisable to have US dollars in cash for payment on site.

The authorities may also request:

  • an exit ticket from the territory (return flight or onward journey),

  • proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay.

Online arrival form

Before your arrival, it is recommended to complete the online arrival form available on the official portal of the Nepalese government. This form allows you to provide immigration authorities with:

  • passport information

  • flight details

  • the address of your first accommodation in Nepal

A digital confirmation or a reference code may be requested when passing through immigration or at the visa issuance counter upon arrival.

Special permits for trekking areas

Certain regions of Nepal require additional permits in addition to the tourist visa:

  • the TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System): mandatory for most trekking itineraries,

  • national park or conservation area permits (e.g., Sagarmatha for Everest, Annapurna Conservation Area),

  • restricted zone permits for certain specific destinations such as Mustang, Dolpo, or Manaslu.

These permits are generally obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara from the relevant offices.

Health and vaccinations

No vaccine is mandatory to enter Nepal, except in case of arrival from a country at risk of yellow fever. However, several vaccinations are strongly recommended by health authorities:

  • hepatitis A and B,

  • typhoid,

  • diphtheria-tetanus-poliomyelitis (DTP),

  • rabies (especially for extended stays or in remote areas),

  • Japanese encephalitis (depending on areas and season).

Preventive antimalarial treatment may be recommended for certain low-altitude regions (Terai). It is advisable to consult a doctor or international vaccination center at least four to six weeks before departure.

Traveling with children

Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay, as well as their own tourist visa.

In certain European countries, when a minor travels without one of their parents, an exit authorization from the territory may be required according to the regulations of the country of residence.

Other nationalities

Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Travelers concerned should inquire with the embassy or consulate of Nepal in their country of residence.

To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to be covered for emergency assistance, repatriation and foreign medical expenses.

Your local agency encourages you to review the specific policy developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to insurance, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.

CAP EXPLORER: The complete insurance solution designed for a worry-free trip!

Choose the plan that suits you best:

  • Explorer'Multirisque

  • Explorer'Annulation

  • Explorer'Assistance

  • Explorer' Complémentaire Carte Bancaire

Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to one of these plans.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these formulas, the full policy detailing all coverage and claims reporting procedures are available on the insurer's website.

Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with claims reporting procedures. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them throughout their trip.

Chapka — Cap Explorer

Our insurance partner

Travel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.

Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insurance

Frequently asked questions

Yes, a tourist visa is required, issued upon arrival at Kathmandu airport or at land borders (USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days, USD 125 for 90 days). A valid passport for at least 6 months beyond entry and an identity photo are required.

Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.

You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.

For a tailor-made quality trip, plan between 110 and 190 euros per day per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transportation and English-speaking guide. International flights (700-1100 euros return) are additional. Himalayan treks require a dedicated budget (permits, porters, lodges).

Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.

Absolutely. We adapt each itinerary to our travelers' profiles. For families, we prioritize relaxed paces, family-friendly accommodations, fun and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our English-speaking local guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate anecdotes.

It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, your budget and your dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You refine every detail together until you reach the perfect version. You confirm and travel with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.

In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.

Payment is generally made in two installments.

Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) guarantee which covers 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on the ground throughout your stay.

Nirmala, Himalayan pathfinder
12years of expertise

Let's talk about your adventure — Kathmandu Valley

Himalayan pathfinder, based in Katmandou

“
Nepal is a country that naturally teaches patience and humility. Even a simple trip can become a very profound experience there.

— Nirmala

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