Everest Region
To get near Everest, you must either walk for a week-long or fly to Lukla, a remote mountain airstrip where flights are notoriously unreliable. The Everest Region or Solukhumbu Region is Nepal's second-most popular trekking region. It would probably be the most popular destination for trekkers, but it is more expensive and difficult to get to Solukhumbu than the Annapurna region.
Patale Phaplu Lukla Airport
Solukhumbu is famous for its proximity to Everest (8849m) and its inhabitants, Sherpa villages, and monasteries. The nominal destination of an Everest trek is the Everest base camp at an elevation of about 5340m, from there to Kala Patthar, a 5545m bump on the southern flank of Pumori(7145m). From Kala Patthar, there is a dramatic view of Mount Everest.
Kalapathhar Everest Base Camp Pheriche
Other than the problem of access, the other major complication of an Everest trek is the high chance of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Climbing too quickly to a high elevation causes this potentially deadly symptoms of altitude sickness and cannot go to base camp, still can make a worthwhile trek to less ambitious destinations such as Namche Bazaar, the administrative headquarters of the Khumbu region, Khumjung, or Thame, which are more typical Sherpa village.
Namche Bazaar Khumjung Namche bazaar
Everest Region is also home to the red panda, snow leopard, musk deer, Himalayan tahr, marten, Himalayan mouse hare (pika), and over 118 species of bird including the Impeyan pheasant, snow cock, blood pheasant, red-billed cough, etc. That is why Sagarmatha National Park was established in 1976 on an 1148 sq. km area of Solukhumbu District.
Himalayan Tahr Tibetan Snow Cocks Himalayan Blue Sheep
Best Time to Visit Everest
- The best weather and big crowds are in spring (March-May) when skies are clear and temperatures are more bearable at high altitudes. Trails are also covered with Rhododendron.
- The second best weather in autumn (September-November).
Things to remember during your Everest region sojourns:
- Avoid the use of no biodegradable items, especially mineral water bottles. Water purifiers are available at any drug store.
- Carry out non-biodegradable items such as batteries, plastic bags, and bottles.
- Do respect the cultural and religious sites.
- Never trek alone, hire a local guide if you can’t find a companion.
- Flying a drone without a proper permit is strictly prohibited in these areas.
- Disturbing wildlife.
- Scale any sacred peaks and mountains without permission.
- Remove anything from the park.