The Kala Patthar Trek is actually an excerpt from our full-fledged Everest Base Camp & Kala Patthar Trek package (17 days). Keeping in mind, the fame of the Kala Patthar (5550m) and also considering the fact that not all might be willing to saunter to the base camp, Marron Treks has conceptualized the “Kala Patthar Trek”, eying at those factions of the enthusiastic Everest trekkers whose prime intent is to conquer this grayish monticule and admire the jaw-dropping beauty from its apex. We have made every attempt possible to make sure that the trip encapsulates all the major attractions of the Everest region, of course except the very iconic, Everest Base Camp.
Like most of the regular trips in the Everest trekking course, The Kala Patthar Trek begins with a scenic one hour’s flight to Lukla, followed by a short trek to Phakding on the very day. The footy mission continues to Namche Bazaar, the administrative hub of the Khumbu region. Rest day here, not only provides us a good acclimatization but also gets us well versed to the life patterns of the “Sherpas”. “Climb high and sleep low” will probably be our slogan for this trip. Almost pre-occupied with the Kala Patthar ascent, we advance further, passing by the wonderful settlements of Tengboche and Dingboche, vividly notice the altitude drastically increasing. Our legs are jaded but the spirits high, so our march continues until we eventually find ourselves at the top of the so called “black pearl- the Kala Patthar (5550m), amidst the fluttering prayer flags. With the jaws dropped to the extent that our chin almost touches our chest, we admire the exquisite mountainous vistas from the apex, uttering wow, every fraction of a second!!!
We have embedded enough rest and excursions days onto this trip, so that you do not get worn out with the protracted uphill walks and at the same time do not miss out the major attractions of the region. On a contented note, our trek finally winds up at Lukla, from where we take a flight back to Kathmandu, the next day. On your last night in Nepal, Marron Treks will host an entertaining farewell dinner program, featuring a range of traditional Nepali cuisines and a live cultural show. You are free to literally pounce on the succulent Nepali cookeries, but make sure you relish the show being performed live, only for you!
OUTLINE ITINERARY
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m)
Day 02: Kathmandu city sightseeing (1400m)
Day 03: Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2840m/45min) & Trek from Lukla to Phakding (2610 m/ 3 - 4 hrs trek)
Day 04: Trek from Phakding to Namche Baazar (3440m/ 5 - 6 hrs)
Day 05: Rest day in Namche Bazaar for Acclimatization; Visit Namche Gompa (3440m/3-4 hrs)
Day 06: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3860m/5 – 6 hours)
Day 07: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche (4410m/ 5 - 6 hrs)
Day 08: Rest Day In Dingboche; Hike to Chhukung (4730m) and back to Dingboche (4410m/3-4hrs)
Day 09: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche (4910m/ 5 - 6 hrs)
Day 10: Trek from Lobuche to Kala Patthar via Gorakshep and back to Gorakshep (5140m/ 6-7 hrs)
Day 11: Trek from Gorakshep to Tengboche (3860m/ 6-7 hrs)
Day 12: Trek from Tengboche to Monjo (2835m/ 5-6 hrs)
Day 13: Trek from Monjo to Lukla (2840m/4 – 5 hrs)
Day 14: Flight from Lukla to Kathmandu (1400m/45min)
Day 15: A free day in Kathmandu
Day 16: Final departure
The itinerary prescribed above is the standard template of the trip plan offered by Marron Treks which can be readily customized to match the guests’ preferences. However, the guests are expected to understand that the execution of the trip plan might be circumvented by an array of uncontrollable factors like bad weather, political turmoil, strikes, blockades and other unforeseen contingencies. Besides, the domestic flights in Nepal could be subjected to delays or cancellations owing to adverse weather conditions or technical glitches. It is worth mentioning that the flights cannot be operated in the condition where the visibility is less than 1600 meters. Under such abnormal circumstances, the trip plans might undergo slight or sharp alterations, taking into consideration, the best interest of the clients. Wherever the changes are made, Marron Treks cannot be held responsible for the consequences. Nevertheless, we shall endeavor our level best to make sure that the trip is carried out with respect to the original trip specifics.
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m)
Upon your arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu, a representative from Marron Treks will receive and transfer you to your hotel. After you are greeted with welcome drinks at the hotel, we will have a quick pre-trip meeting to discuss on the necessary formalities and trekking itinerary. You can then check in to your room, freshen up and rest. Or if you are not one of those “lay back” types, you can take a stroll around the vicinity of your hotel and get the feel of this hyperactive capital city of Nepal. On the streets, people seem to be on sheer rush, barely noticing one another, but if you utter “Namaste”, they will definitely reciprocate with a smile! Well, that’s Nepal’s Nepalese for you. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu; breakfast included.
Day 02: Kathmandu city sightseeing (1400m)
Short stroll in the evening yesterday might not have acquainted you to Kathmandu. So we want to make sure that you know this city like you know yourself. Once done with your breakfast, let’s hop in to our reserved vehicle and then head on for a comfy ride with one of our experienced city guides. You will be visiting the most renowned historical/cultural landmarks in Kathmandu. Our guide will take you to the Pasupatinath Temple (the most revered Hindu shrine), Kathmandu (Basantapur) Durbar Square and Boudhanath (the Maha Stupa) . All these sites are enlisted in the UNESCO world’s heritage list. After this informative and interesting tour, we drive back through the busy and noisy streets of Kathmandu to the serene premises of your hotel. The best use of the remaining time can be made by shopping the trekking goodies. Most of the items are available on rent and our guide will help you identify the best renting outlet. So, after you have hoarded all the handy gears for your trek, get back to the hotel. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu; breakfast included.
Day 03: Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2840m/45min) & Trek from Lukla to Phakding (2610 m/ 3 - 4 hrs trek)
We take an early morning flight Lukla after breakfast. After 45 minutes, we land at the Tenjing Hillary airport in Lukla, picturesquely surrounded by mountains. Halting a bit for some unpacking and arrangements, we then proceed for our trek through the village of Lukla until we reach Phakding. Chaurikharka School, Chablung, Tharo Koshi, Ghat etc are some of the sites that entice you along the trail. Overnight at teahouse in Phakding; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 04: Trek from Phakding to Namche Baazar (3440m/ 5 - 6 hrs)
The trail leads us along the Dudh Koshi River, through the pine forest and many suspension bridges, including the very famous, Hillary Suspension Bridge. The route then leads straight up beyond a waterfall, from where we get a breathtaking view of Mt. Thamserku (6618 m). Advancing further, we come to a check post which also happens to be the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park. As we continue our ascent through the forests and bridges, we approach the confluence of Dudh Koshi and Bhote Koshi Rivers. Trudging up further for about 2 hours brings us to Chautari (resting place), wherefrom we can relish the splendid sight of the Mt. Everest almost belittling the Lhotse-Nuptse ridge. Passing through one last settlement, the Jorsale village, we ultimately reach Namche Baazar in about 2 hours. Namche Bazaar is the administrative center of the Khumbu region and is also the gateway to the Mount Everest. Overnight at teahouse in Namche Bazaar; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 05: Rest day in Namche Bazaar for Acclimatization; Visit Namche Gompa (3440m/3-4 hrs)
This is a rest day to replenish the calorie used so far and in fact to get acclimatized for the steeper climbs in the days ahead. It is recommended to be on the move even in the rest day rather than being static. So, just to ensure that we are motile, we can spend the day exploring the market at Namche Bazaar. It gives you a perfect visual of the Sherpa culture and their way of life. Namche bazaar houses all the government offices and has all the modern amenities like- internet cafes, restaurants, ATMs etc. Overnight at teahouse in Namche Bazaar; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 06: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3860m/5 – 6 hours)
As we resume our trek this morning, proceeding towards Tengboche, the fascinating sights of Mt. Everest, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Thamserku and Mt. Ama Dablam, greet our eyes. The trek is smooth most of the times but occasioned by trivial ups and downs. We can catch quick glimpses of musk deer, Himalayan thar and multicolored pheasants on the way. The trail then winds down to Kayangjuma, leading us to Sansa, which happens to be the junction to Everest base camp and Gokyo valley. Continuing our way through the pine forests, we cross a bridge decked with prayer flags over the Dudhkoshi River and arrive at a settlement called Phunki Thenga. A tough climb through the pine forests again from thereon, gets us to Tengboche, which is famous for its biggest monastery- the Tengboche monastery. It was founded by a monk from Khumjung. According to the legends, Lama Sange Dorje flew over the Himalaya and landed on rocks at Pyangboche and Tengboche, leaving his footprints. Overnight at teahouse in Tengboche; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 07: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche (4410m/ 5 - 6 hrs)
We relish the morning view of the Tengboche Monastery which looks awesome with the back drop of snowcapped mountains. After capturing the scenes on our stills, we kick off our trek again with number of chortens, mani walls and small villages passing by as we advance further. We continue through Pheriche and then enter the Imja Valley. As we approach the Lobuche River, we descend only to make our ultimate uphill ascent to Dingboche. Once here, you will be able to behold the barley and buckwheat fields guarded by stone frontiers in order to do away the adverse winds and grazing animals. Overnight at teahouse in Dingboche; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 08: Rest Day In Dingboche; Hike to Chhukung (4730m) and back
to Dingboche (4410m/3-4hrs)
We set aside one more day in Dingboche for acclimatization, keeping in mind, our climb above 5000 m in the days ahead. Resting does not mean being static, so after breakfast, we will head off to one of the most popular hiking destinations, Chhukung (4,730 m). This is a vantage point that caters you the sensational views of three super peaks of the world, viz. Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Makalu and Mt. Choyo. Besides, you can also relish the beauty of Imja Khola valley as well the eye-catching fields and pastures of Dingboche. Overnight at teahouse in Dingboche; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 09: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche (4910m/ 5 - 6 hrs)
Every next day now, gets us to a higher elevation. We commence the trek making our way to Duglha through the Khumbu Khola valley. The trail almost seems to be encircled by the mountains. We then arrive at Dusa, a yak herder’s place and advance further through Phulung Karpo, the campsite of the first ever mountain expedition in 1953. Relishing the view of Mt.Pumori (7165 m), we cross a small wooden bridge and ascend to Duglha. We continue to trudge up the terminal moraine of Khumbu glacier to a ridge top, Chupki Lhara. Here you can find an array of stone flags symbolizing the incredible 10 times Everest summiter, Late Babu Chiri Sherpa. The trail now dives down to Khumbu glacier moraine, putting us face to face with the peaks like Pumori, Mahalangur Himal and Khumbutse etc. Bidding farewell to the Khumbu glacier, we make our way forward, alongside a stream and finally get to Lobuche. The high altitude could pose a difficulty in breathing. Overnight at teahouse in Lobuche; breakfast ,lunch and dinner included.
Day 10: Trek from Lobuche to Kala Patthar via Gorakshep and back to Gorakshep (5140m/ 6-7 hrs)
With every new day, the altitude increases. We should be cautious about AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness), especially the headache. If such symptoms persist, it is better to have an extra day halt at Lobuche. But if all is well, we can proceed. The first section of the trail follows the narrow gap between the glacier moraine and the mountain wall. The route of the path changes frequently as the edge of the moraine tumbles onto the glacier. The cairns of stones left as the marks by fellow travelers can be a guiding star to identify the right path. The client continues as we take a detour to the edge of the moraine, which offers us a splendid view of Khumbu Glacier. Eventually we arrive at Gorakshep. We halt for some time and then resume the ascent to Kala Patthar. The path climbs up the grassy ridge above Gorakshep. The isn’t actually difficult to identify; all you need to do is follow the seemingly never ending line of the Gore-Tex clad trekkers, trudging up the hill-side. 
After about one and half hours we make it to 9the apex of Kala Patthar which is marked with fluttering prayer flags. Anyone could get ecstatic looking at 360 degree view of the Himalayan giants-Nuptse, Lobuche-west, Lhotse and the mighty Everest. After this Himalayan indulgence, we descend back to Gorakshep. Overnight at teahouse in Gorakshep; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 11: Trek from Gorakshep to Tengboche (3860m/ 6-7 hrs)
We have accomplish the mission so now it’s time to make our way back trailing along the downhill route to Lobuche, which takes us about 2 hours. From Lobuche we again retrace our steps along the moraine of Khumbu Glacier until we arrive at the settlement of Dingboche. Our downhill walk continues as the trail drops down the valley of Orsho and then follows the west bank of Imja River. Making a gentle ascent through the forest to finally arrive at Tengboche. Overnight at teahouse in Tengboche; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 12: Trek from Tengboche to Monjo (2835m/ 5-6 hrs)
The trek begins with a steep descent of about 500 m through the
rhododendron bushes and fir trees. We then cross the bridge over Dudhkoshi River and pass through the villages of Tashinga and Sansa until we arrive at the settlement of Kyangjuma. Continuing our happy way back, we trail along the curvy and steep maze to Namche Bazaar. If you are lucky enough, you might just be able to spot some wild lives like mountain goats, snow leopards and colorful pheasants on the way. From Namche, we take a steep downhill route and cross another suspension bridge over the Dudhkoshi river. Before arriving at Monjo, we need to cross the Dudhkoshi River at more point. Eventually, we exit the Sagarmatha National Park and arrive at the tranquil vicinity of Monjo village. Overnight at teahouse in Monjo; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 13: Trek from Monjo to Lukla (2840m/4 – 5 hrs)
Probably, the last long walk in the trip, but mind you, it’s not strenuous at all! The route is occasioned by trivial ascents and descents but most of the part is flat. It’s almost like rewinding back your journey. We walk through the open plains, rhododendron and pine forests and Sherpa villages. Crossing the Dudhkoshi River through suspension bridges at three different points, we push ourselves for the last 45 minutes’ ascent from Chheplung. Yes, we are now at Lukla! Thus, with tired legs but content eyes, our trek eventually winds up. Let’s relax and celebrate this accomplishment with the entire crew members! Overnight at teahouse in Lukla; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 14: Flight from Lukla to Kathmandu (1400m/45min)
Ambulating on the lap of super mountains for almost two weeks and cuddling some sweet and sour memories, we take a flight back to Kathmandu from Lukla. Upon arrival at KTM, check in to the hotel for overnight stay. You can refresh and relax to do away the fatigue. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu; breakfast included.
Day 15: A free day in Kathmandu
This is a free day in Kathmandu to fulfill anything that you missed out spotting in this energetic capital of Nepal. You can indulge yourself in shopping or strolling around some of the cultural and historical landmarks of Kathmandu. Thamel is your hot spot for shopping where you can haul all the souvenirs representing Nepal and its culture. May be that in addition to your interesting trip anecdotes, you would also want to take back some stuff for your friends and relatives. In the evening, a farewell dinner with a range of traditional Nepali cuisines will be hosted by Marron Treks. Enjoy the dinner, pack/prepare yourself for a flight back home and have a beauty sleep. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu; breakfast and dinner included.
Day 16: Final departure
Unless you would want to extend your trip and try out some of our other adventurous packages like Bungy Jumping, Mountain Biking, Jungle Safari, White Water Rafting, Golfing & Paragliding etc., this will be your last day in Nepal. A representative from Marron Treks will escort you to the airport for the final departure to your homeland. Have a safe flight back home. Please let us know about your desire for trip extension so that we can make the necessary arrangements.
The itinerary prescribed above is the standard template of the trip plan offered by Marron Treks which can be readily customized to match the guests’ preferences. However, the guests are expected to understand that the execution of the trip plan might be circumvented by an array of uncontrollable factors like bad weather, political turmoil, strikes, blockades and other unforeseen contingencies. Besides, the domestic flights in Nepal could be subjected to delays or cancellations owing to adverse weather conditions or technical glitches. It is worth mentioning that the flights cannot be operated in the condition where the visibility is less than 1600 meters. Under such abnormal circumstances, the trip plans might undergo slight or sharp alterations, taking into consideration, the best interest of the clients. Wherever the changes are made, Marron Treks cannot be held responsible for the consequences. Nevertheless, we shall endeavor our level best to make sure that the trip is carried out with respect to the original trip specifics.
Accommodation
While you are in Kathmandu, we opt to accommodate you in 3 star or 5 star hotels like Hotel Royal Singhi (3 star), Hotel Manaslu (3 star), Radisson (5 star), Yak & Yeti (5 star) or similar.
During the trek, you will be accommodated in a Tea House/ Lodge or Trekking Inn. Most of these lodges and teahouses cater good services and are equipped with modern amenities. We will endeavor to provide you the best accommodation available along the route so that you get a good night’s rest in a hygienic milieu.
Meals
We arrange the best quality food during the trek as we are concerned about the health of the trekkers as well as the staff members. Basically, we opt for locally available food in the Everest Region so that you could a real sense of the culture, living patterns, simultaneously promoting the locally available resources of organic food and beverages. Other than, a wide range of Continental, Chinese, Italian and Indian cuisines like Pizza, Spaghetti, French Fries, Soups, Breads etc are also available for your retreat.
Porter and Staff Care
We ensure that all the porters and other staffs going to high altitude conditions are provided with adequate clothing and equipments. They are the backbones of a trek.
Best Months
The month of January-June & September-December are considered to be best months for Kala Patthar Trek.
Any Experience Required?
For Kala Patthar Trek no former experience required. Physical fitness is the only key to accomplish this trek.
Our Guides
Guides play a very active role during the trek. Marron Treks has experienced and helpful treking guides who make your trip enjoyable as well as productive. Our guides are literate, multilingual speakers, environment conscious and well acquainted to culture, language, location and every single detail pertaining to the Everest Region . This would help our trekkers make the most of their trip.
Travel Insurance
It is advised that you arrange your travel insurance before leaving your homeland. The main thing is to make sure that your insurance covers you for both medical and evacuation costs. In some places it is not necessary but it would be better if you have the travel insurance with you all the time. That would make your trip safe and hassle free.
For more queries, visit our FAQ section or contact us directly at marketing@marrontreks.com
Starting Price: USD XXXX (On request) on twin sharing accommodation basis.
For other special requirements or bigger group deals, kindly mail us directly at: marketing@marrontreks.com
Cost Includes
Cost Excludes
TREKKING GEARS & EQUIPMENTS
Needless to say that kitting and stuffing yourself out for a trek is almost a herculean task which keeps you mulling and often gets you overwhelmed. But at the mercy of the renting outlets sprouting in every visible corner in Kathmandu, preparing for trekking in Nepal these days is almost tantamount to equipping yourself for a weekend backpacking trip. Most of the heavy and expensive items are easily available on rent, so you don’t actually have to travel Nepal with a cartload of gears. We have endeavored to formulate a categorical checklist that gives you a tentative idea regarding the gears and accessories mandatory for you during the trek. The list could vary depending upon the kind of trek you pursue, the terrain, weather conditions and time of the year. For instance, you don’t need the camp-trek equipments when you are on a tea-house trek. This listing below simply serves as a guideline and you can always have your own checklist. It is always preferable to pack light and the key to this is to carry the gears and accessories that have multidimensional uses.
CLOTHING (Core & Lower body)
Water-proof (breathable fabric) jacket, Poncho or Umbrella
Hard shell pants (breathable fabric- 1 set), preferably that zips from top and bottom which can be worn over boots without getting undressed, in case of abrupt weather changes
Fleece jacket or Pullover
Fleece windcheater jacket
Down jacket or a Down vest
T-shirts (2 – 3) and Long-sleeved shirts with collars ( 2- 3 pairs)
Nylon (cotton ought to be strictly avoided) hiking shorts ( 2- 3 pairs)
Hiking trousers- one that is detachable from the knees so that the it can be folded up as shorts ( 2- 3 pairs)
Thermal underwear as well as synthetic underwear (3 -4 each – avoid cotton)
Synthetic sport brassieres for women (2 pairs- avoid cotton)
Head/Eyes & Hand Gears
Sun hat/cap
Woolen hat or Balaclava
Sunglasses/Goggles (preferably the one with 100% UV protection)
Liner, Synthetic or Thin wool gloves (1 -2 pair)
Warm gloves (designed to the shield the sub-zero temperatures)- 1 pair
Footwear
Trekking boots (1 pair) and spare laces
Running shoes, Sandals or Thongs (flip-flops)- 1 pair each
Hiking gaiters (1 pair) to do away the rocks, dusts and moist feet
Liner socks- preferably synthetic (3 – 4 pairs)
Heavy or wool blend socks (3 – 4 pairs)
Equipments
Backpack/Rucksack
Duffle bag (will be provided by Marron Treks as a complimentary gear and you needn't return it )
Pack cover (to protect your gears from getting wet)
Day sack/Nylon stuff sack
Sleeping Bag/ Silk liner (will be provided by Marron Treks but should be
returned after the trip)
Water bottle
Good head torch along with spare batteries and bulbs
Maps, compass and a guide book
Trekking poles
Miscellaneous Bits
The items below could seem trivial, but if you don’t have them, you might just find
yourself sticky and stinky, which isn’t actually good for you!
Toiletries
Quick-drying camp towel
Detergent powder/bar
Toilet paper
Sunscreen Lotion (SPF 20+) & Lip balm
Pocket knife
Sewing/Repair Kit (for tent & mattress)
Emergency kit including a whistle, waterproof match/lighter
Padlocks for bags and lodge rooms
Stuff sacks
Earplugs
Candlesticks
Medicaments
It is important that you can include the medicines prescribed by your doctor.
Below is just the generic list of medications. We advice you to always consult your travel doctor as you might be resistant or allergic to some medicines
Anesthetics (Ibuprofen/Aspirin)
Broad spectrum antibiotics tablets
Metronidazole and Antacids (for diarrohea /indigestion)
Broad spectrum ointments (Neosporin/ Clotrimazole/Gentamicin)
Antiseptic liquids (Dettol/Savlon)
Assorted band-aids
Small gauge pad
Roll of adhesive tape
Iodine tablets
Optional Carry
Nothing hard and fast about carrying the items in this list as they are not the basics. Yet, though not all, if you still manage to squeeze in some of these items on your carry, you will not regret as they might just come handy during the trek
Camera, memory card and battery charger
GPS unit Altimeters
Binoculars
Pee bottle for men (leak proof/wide mouth) & Pee funnel for women
Books and magazines
Marron Treks has calibrated fixed departure dates for all the trek packages. We operate group as well as individual/private treks. Please pick the most palpable date for you and book your trip now. If the dates below don’t fit your schedule, kindly contact us directly and let us know about your preference.
