Overview
Namche Bazar:
Known as the heart of the Everest Region, Namche Bazaar is a small town in the Solu-Khumbu Region. At 3440 meters above sea level, it is known for its vibrant markets, small teahouses, and breathtaking scenery of the Everest region. Usually, Namche Bazaar serves as an acclimatization point for trekkers traveling to the Everest Base Camp. It is one of the most scenic towns in the Himalayas. Namche Bazar has three small museums showcasing the traditional culture of the local Sherpa people. This place can be visited by air or trekking from Jiri or Phaplu. Hence, you cannot travel directly from Kathmandu via road.
Kathmandu:
The vibrant capital of Nepal, Kathmandu, is a busy metropolis rich in history, culture, and spirituality. Home to temples, monasteries, and cultural sites, it is one of the most preferred places for tourists. Kathmandu’s elevation is 1400 meters. Despite its modernization, the city retains its ancient architecture, which makes it a must-visit. There are multiple hiking destinations around Kathmandu. Getting to Namche Bazaar from Kathmandu has three alternatives. Which are:
By Air (To Lukla) & Trek
Your first alternative is to travel from Kathmandu to Lukla by air and then trek to Namche Bazaar. There is an airport near Namche Bazaar, the Syangboche Airport, but due to the narrow runway, there are very few flights to Syangboche. It would help if you were prepared as delays are very common due to bad weather in the region. If you fly to Lukla, flights depart from Manthali, Ramechhap, or Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport. Either way, these flights offer stunning aerial views of the Himalayas, including the snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and rivers. The flight time is usually 25–30 minutes to reach Lukla.
Once you reach Lukla, your trek to Namche Bazaar begins. It usually takes 2 days with an overnight stay at Phakding. The distance from Lukla to Namche Bazaar is around 20 km. The trail descends gradually through pine forests, and you’ll cross a suspension bridge over the Dudh Koshi River. You can easily reach Phakding in 3-4 hours from Lukla. On the next day, you will trek to Namche Bazaar, which is a much more challenging experience. On the next day, you will hike for 6-8 hours. To enter Namche Bazaar, you need a Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit. The best time to choose this route is during Spring as the weather gets clear and you’ll witness breathtaking mountain scenery.
By Road (To Jiri/ Phaplu) & Trek
Via Jiri:
- Distance: 185 km
- Traveling Time: 9-10 hours by bus or a jeep
- Difficulty: Moderate
Once you reach Jiri, you must trek to Namche Bazaar, which usually takes 7-8 days. This route is also known as the Pioneers’ Route, as mountaineers used to take it before the airport was built in Lukla in the 1960s. The first five days of this trek are completely different from those of Phaplu. The trekking route is Jiri-Shivalaya-Bhandar-Sete-Junbesi-Nunthala-Lukla. On average, you must walk for 6-7 hours on this trek. Once you reach Lukla, it will take you a further 2 days to reach Namche Bazaar.
Via Phaplu:
- Distance: 270 km
- Traveling Time: 9-12 hours by bus or a jeep
- Difficulty: Moderate- Bumpy
The journey from Kathmandu to Phaplu is an adventurous one. As you’ll be reaching the Solu region, the road condition is pretty bad around here. The trek from Phaplu to Namche Bazaar usually takes 3-4 days. Reaching Nunthala will take you 6-7 hours. The trek is fascinating, as you will be traveling through the dense forests of the Khumbu region. These treks do require good stamina, as there are steep ascents and descents along the way. Pack light, but ensure you have all the essentials for a smooth experience.
By Helicopter
This is the most convenient way to travel to Namche Bazaar, as you can get there directly from Kathmandu. It will take you around 1 hour to reach Namche Bazaar. However, the journey can be quite expensive. You will leave the Tribhuvan International Airport and soon can witness the entire valleys, rivers, and cities below. From a helicopter, you can get unrivaled views of the distant Himalayas.
Also Read: Short Bike Rides From Kathmandu: Exploring The Valley
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