Book the best Nepal tours, treks and things to do with a local team in Kathmandu. Trek to Everest Base Camp or Annapurna, fly to Everest by helicopter, explore Kathmandu’s UNESCO temples and Pokhara’s lakes — with licensed guides, clear prices and easy airport transfers.
Compare Annapurna Base Camp trek packages and book a guided ABC trek from Pokhara — through Gurung villages and rhododendron forest into the Annapurna…
Everything you need to plan a trip to Nepal in one place: where to go, the best things to do, top treks, when to visit and how many days you need. Written by our team in Kathmandu and updated for 2026.
Why Visit Nepal?
From 8,000-metre peaks to UNESCO temples, in one small country
Nepal packs more variety into 147,000 km² than almost anywhere on Earth. In a single trip you can stand below Mount Everest (8,848.86 m), explore medieval temple squares in the Kathmandu Valley, paddle on Phewa Lake in Pokhara and track one-horned rhinos in the jungles of Chitwan — at elevations running from under 100 m in the southern plains to the highest point on the planet.
8 of the world’s 14 highest mountains — Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu and Annapurna I.
World-famous treks — Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Base Camp, the Annapurna Circuit, Langtang and Manaslu, with teahouses (mountain lodges) along most routes.
4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites — Kathmandu Valley, Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park, Chitwan National Park and Lumbini, the birthplace of the Buddha.
Living culture — Hindu and Buddhist traditions, Sherpa and Newar communities, and festivals such as Dashain, Tihar and Holi.
Adventure at every altitude — helicopter flights to Everest, paragliding, white-water rafting, jungle safaris and peak climbing.
Great value — comfortable trips for every budget, from teahouse treks to luxury lodges and private tours.
Best Places to Visit in Nepal
Where to go, and what each region is best for
Kathmandu & the Kathmandu Valley Nepal’s capital and your arrival point. See Swayambhunath (the Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple and the three royal Durbar Squares of Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur. Most travellers stay in Thamel. Plan 2–3 days.
Pokhara Nepal’s lakeside adventure capital and the gateway to the Annapurnas. Boat on Phewa Lake, catch sunrise from Sarangkot, paraglide over the valley or start a trek. Plan 2–4 days.
Annapurna Region Nepal’s most varied trekking area: Annapurna Base Camp, Poon Hill, Mardi Himal and the Annapurna Circuit, with views of Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail).
Chitwan National Park Lowland jungle 5–6 hours from Kathmandu or Pokhara. Jeep and canoe safaris, one-horned rhinos, elephants, birdlife and Tharu village culture. Plan 2–3 days.
Lumbini The birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama (the Buddha), with the sacred Maya Devi Temple and monasteries built by Buddhist nations from around the world.
Langtang & Upper Mustang Langtang is the closest major trekking region to Kathmandu; Upper Mustang is a desert-like former kingdom with Tibetan culture (special restricted-area permit required).
Fly to Everest by helicopter — reach Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar and have breakfast at Hotel Everest View, back in Kathmandu by lunchtime. Everest Base Camp Helicopter Day Tour.
Trek to Annapurna Base Camp — a natural amphitheatre at 4,130 m surrounded by Annapurna I and Machhapuchhre. Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
Wander Bhaktapur and Patan — the best-preserved Newar old towns, famous for pagoda temples, woodcarving and juju dhau (king curd).
Watch sunrise from Sarangkot or Poon Hill — first light over Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna range.
Paraglide over Pokhara — tandem flights from Sarangkot with Phewa Lake below and the Himalaya ahead.
Go on a jungle safari in Chitwan — look for one-horned rhinos, gharial crocodiles and, with luck, a Bengal tiger.
Raft a Himalayan river — the Trishuli is ideal for first-timers; the Bhote Koshi and Kali Gandaki add more thrill.
Visit Lumbini — walk the peaceful Sacred Garden where the Buddha was born.
Take a mountain flight — an early-morning sightseeing flight along the Himalaya, for travellers short on time.
Eat your way through Nepal — momos, dal bhat, thukpa, Newari feasts and sweet milk tea.
Trekking in Nepal
The best treks in Nepal, compared
Nepal is the world’s best-known trekking destination. Most routes use teahouses, so you sleep in a lodge and eat hot meals every night — no camping needed. Pick a trek by the time you have, your fitness and how high you want to go.
Everest Base Camp Trek — 12–14 days · max 5,545 m (Kala Patthar) · challenging. The world’s most famous trek.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek — 7–12 days · max 4,130 m · moderate. Forests, hot springs and a 360° mountain bowl.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek — 4–5 days · max 3,210 m · easy to moderate. The best short trek for beginners and families.
Annapurna Circuit — 12–18 days · max 5,416 m (Thorong La Pass) · challenging. Huge variety, from rice terraces to high desert.
Langtang Valley Trek — 7–10 days · max about 4,770 m (Kyanjin Ri) · moderate. Close to Kathmandu, no flight needed.
Mardi Himal Trek — 5–7 days · max about 4,500 m · moderate. Quieter ridge-top trail with close-up Fishtail views.
Gokyo Lakes Trek — 12–14 days · max 5,357 m (Gokyo Ri) · challenging. Turquoise lakes and four 8,000 m peaks.
Manaslu Circuit — 14–16 days · max 5,106 m (Larkya La) · challenging. Remote restricted area, special permit required.
Upper Mustang Trek — 12–14 days · about 3,840 m (Lo Manthang) · moderate. Tibetan culture in a rain-shadow desert.
Trekking rules: foreign trekkers need park or conservation-area permits, and a licensed guide is now required on most trekking routes inside national parks and conservation areas — and always in restricted areas. All InTicketo treks include a licensed guide and the permits listed on each trip page.
Helicopter tours, paragliding, rafting, safaris and more
Everest helicopter tours See Everest, Lhotse and Ama Dablam up close in about 4–5 hours, with no trekking. Ideal for limited time or limited fitness.
Paragliding in Pokhara Tandem flights of about 20–60 minutes from Sarangkot, one of the world’s most scenic paragliding sites.
White-water rafting Half-day to multi-day trips on the Trishuli, Bhote Koshi, Seti and Kali Gandaki rivers.
Jungle safari in Chitwan and Bardia Jeep safaris, canoe rides and guided jungle walks in Nepal’s lowland national parks.
Peak climbing Trekking peaks such as Island Peak (6,165 m) and Mera Peak (6,476 m) for fit trekkers who want a summit.
Bungee, zipline and canyoning Bungee near the Tibet border, one of the world’s steepest ziplines in Pokhara, and canyoning in waterfall gorges.
Mountain biking Ride the Kathmandu Valley rim, the Annapurna foothills or the high trails of Mustang.
Best Time to Visit Nepal
Season-by-season guide, with festivals
Autumn — September to November (best overall) Clear skies, stable weather and the sharpest mountain views after the monsoon. Peak season for Everest and Annapurna treks, and the time of Nepal’s biggest festivals, Dashain and Tihar. Book flights, lodges and treks early.
Spring — March to May (second best) Warmer days, rhododendron forests in bloom and the Everest climbing season. Views can be hazier by late May. Holi, the festival of colours, falls in March.
Winter — December to February Cold nights at altitude but quiet, crisp and clear days. Great for Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan and lower treks such as Poon Hill. High passes may close after heavy snow.
Monsoon — June to August Warm and green with afternoon rain, leeches on lower trails and possible flight delays. Best for rain-shadow treks such as Upper Mustang, and for cultural tours with fewer crowds.
Quick answer: for trekking, go in October–November or March–April. For culture and wildlife, any time from October to April works well.
How Many Days Do You Need in Nepal?
Sample Nepal itineraries for every trip length
3–4 days — Kathmandu Valley highlights (Durbar Squares, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath, Bhaktapur) plus an Everest helicopter tour or mountain flight.
7 days — Kathmandu (2 nights), Pokhara (3 nights) with Sarangkot sunrise and paragliding, then Chitwan (2 nights) — or swap Chitwan for the 4–5 day Poon Hill trek.
Real support Talk to us by WhatsApp on +977 9712067531 or email help@inticketoglobal.com before, during and after your trip.
Nepal Travel Essentials
Practical information to check before you fly. Rules and fees change, so always confirm the latest details with official sources before you travel.
Nepal Quick Facts
Capital: Kathmandu
Currency: Nepalese Rupee (NPR)
Language: Nepali; English is widely spoken in tourist areas
Time zone: Nepal Time, UTC +5:45
Main international airport: Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), Kathmandu
Electricity: 230 V, 50 Hz; plug types C, D and M — bring a universal adapter
Highest point: Mount Everest, 8,848.86 m
Best seasons: October–November and March–April
Tourist Police hotline: 1144
Nepal Visa & Entry Requirements (2026)
Most nationalities can get a tourist visa on arrival at Kathmandu airport and main land borders, or fill in the online form before flying. Current tourist visa fees:
15 days: US$30
30 days: US$50 (the usual choice for trekkers)
90 days: US$125
Children under 10 are generally free, and Indian citizens do not need a visa. Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months. Bring cash (US dollars are easiest) for the visa counter. Visas can be extended at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Trekking Permits & Guide Rules
Everest region: Sagarmatha National Park permit (NPR 3,000 + VAT) and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality fee (NPR 3,000).
Annapurna region: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), NPR 3,000.
Langtang: Langtang National Park permit, NPR 3,000 + VAT.
Restricted areas (Upper Mustang, Manaslu, Nar Phu, Dolpo and others): special permits issued only through a registered trekking agency.
Licensed guide: required on most trekking routes in national parks and conservation areas, and always in restricted areas.
Permits are included in InTicketo treks where stated on the trip page — no queues at permit offices for you.
Money, Costs & Tipping
Cash is king: cards work in hotels and bigger shops in Kathmandu and Pokhara, but treks, local buses and small shops are cash only. ATMs are easy to find in cities and rare on trails.
Carry rupees on treks: teahouse prices rise with altitude because everything is carried up by porters or yaks.
Budget: Nepal suits every budget — from simple guesthouses and local food to five-star hotels, private tours and helicopter flights.
Tipping: not mandatory in restaurants, but tipping trekking guides and porters at the end of a trek is customary and much appreciated.
Altitude: above about 2,500 m, gain height slowly, include rest days and tell your guide about headaches, nausea or breathlessness. Descending is the best cure for altitude sickness.
Insurance: for treks, choose travel insurance that covers trekking to your maximum altitude and helicopter evacuation.
Water: do not drink tap water. Use a filter bottle or purification tablets, or buy boiled or filtered water.
Safety: Nepal is generally a friendly, safe country for visitors. Take normal precautions with valuables in busy areas and follow your guide’s advice in the mountains.
Domestic flights: Kathmandu to Pokhara is about 25 minutes; Lukla flights start the Everest trek. In peak seasons many Lukla flights operate from Ramechhap (Manthali), a few hours’ drive from Kathmandu.
Tourist buses: comfortable daily buses link Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan (roughly 6–8 hours to Pokhara).
Private car or jeep: the most flexible and comfortable way to travel, especially for families and small groups.
Greet people with “Namaste” and palms pressed together.
Walk clockwise around stupas, prayer wheels and mani walls.
Remove shoes before entering homes and temples; some Hindu temples do not allow non-Hindus inside.
Use your right hand to give, receive and eat.
Dress modestly at religious sites and ask before photographing people or ceremonies.
Public displays of affection are uncommon — keep them low-key.
Frequently Asked Questions
Nepal is famous for Mount Everest and the Himalayas — it is home to 8 of the world's 14 highest mountains — and for world-class trekking such as the Everest Base Camp and Annapurna treks. It is also known for its 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites (Kathmandu Valley, Sagarmatha National Park, Chitwan National Park and Lumbini, the birthplace of the Buddha), Sherpa culture, temples and stupas, and wildlife such as the one-horned rhino.
The top things to do in Nepal are trekking to Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Base Camp, taking an Everest helicopter tour, exploring Kathmandu's Durbar Squares and stupas, watching sunrise from Sarangkot or Poon Hill, paragliding in Pokhara, going on a jungle safari in Chitwan, rafting a Himalayan river and visiting Lumbini.
The best time to visit Nepal is October to November (autumn), followed by March to April (spring). Both seasons bring clear mountain views and stable trekking weather. December to February is cold at altitude but clear and quiet, while June to August is the monsoon, with rain, green landscapes and fewer visitors.
The best places to visit in Nepal are Kathmandu and the Kathmandu Valley (including Bhaktapur and Patan), Pokhara, the Everest region, the Annapurna region, Chitwan National Park, Lumbini, Langtang and Upper Mustang.
It depends on your time and fitness. The Everest Base Camp Trek (12–14 days, up to 5,545 m) is the most famous. The Annapurna Base Camp Trek (7–12 days, 4,130 m) is shorter and less high. Poon Hill (4–5 days) is the best short, easy trek, and the Annapurna Circuit and Manaslu Circuit are the best longer adventures.
Most visitors need a visa, but it is easy to get a tourist visa on arrival at Kathmandu airport or main land borders. Fees in 2026 are US$30 for 15 days, US$50 for 30 days and US$125 for 90 days. Children under 10 are generally free and Indian citizens do not need a visa. Requirements can change, so check the official Department of Immigration website before you travel.
On most trekking routes in Nepal's national parks and conservation areas, foreign trekkers are now required to trek with a licensed guide, and a guide is always required in restricted areas such as Upper Mustang and Manaslu. Rules can vary by region and change over time. All InTicketo treks include a government-licensed guide.
Yes. Short treks such as Ghorepani Poon Hill suit beginners, and many first-timers complete Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp with steady training, a well-paced itinerary and a good guide. Read our guide Can a beginner do the Everest Base Camp trek?
Plan 3–4 days for Kathmandu and an Everest flight, 7 days for Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan, and 10–14 days or more if you want to trek to Annapurna or Everest Base Camp. Add 1–2 buffer days after a trek for possible mountain flight delays.
Yes. An Everest Base Camp helicopter day tour flies from Kathmandu to Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar with breakfast at Hotel Everest View, all in about 4–5 hours. Early-morning mountain sightseeing flights are another option.
Nepal fits every budget. Guided treks on InTicketo start from around US$1,099 for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek and US$1,485 for the 14-day Everest Base Camp Trek, while private Kathmandu taxis start from US$10. Daily costs in cities depend mainly on your hotel and how you travel. See our Everest Base Camp trek cost breakdown for a detailed example.
Nepal is generally a safe and welcoming country for tourists, including solo and female travellers. Take normal precautions with valuables in busy areas, respect road and weather conditions, and in the mountains follow your guide's advice on altitude. The Tourist Police can be reached on 1144.
Nepal uses the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). Cards are accepted at many hotels, restaurants and shops in Kathmandu and Pokhara, but you will need cash for treks, small shops and local transport. ATMs are widely available in cities but rare on trekking routes.
Yes. Families love Kathmandu's temples, boating and paragliding in Pokhara, jungle safaris in Chitwan and short treks such as Poon Hill. Choose activities and altitudes that suit the youngest and least fit person in your group, and use private transport for comfort.
Yes. Most of our Nepal trips can run as private departures on your own dates, and we can tailor itineraries, hotels, transport and activities to your interests and budget. Message us on WhatsApp (+977 9712067531) or email help@inticketoglobal.com.
Try dal bhat (rice, lentil soup and curries — the trekker's staple), momos (dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), Newari dishes such as bara and yomari, Thakali sets in the Annapurna region, juju dhau (king curd) in Bhaktapur and sweet milk tea.
For cities, pack light layers, comfortable shoes and modest clothing for temples. For trekking, bring broken-in hiking boots, a warm down jacket, thermal layers, a waterproof shell, a sleeping bag suited to the season, sunglasses, sunscreen, a refillable water bottle with purification, a headlamp and a basic first-aid kit. Many items can also be bought or rented in Kathmandu's Thamel area.
Really smooth experience with Axui in Kathmandu. The driver arrived on time, the car was clean, and the whole ride felt safe and comfortable. Booking was also very easy.
Sarah ThompsonKuala Lumpur, Malaysia · September 22, 2026
An amazing trekking experience! The entire journey was well organized, enjoyable, and memorable. The support throughout the trek was excellent, with friendly and attentive guidance every step of the way. Everyone was well looked after, and the overall experience felt safe, comfortable, and stress-free. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a wonderful trekking adventure in Nepal!
Used Axui for a few rides around Kathmandu and was impressed with the service. The driver was polite, knew the roads well, and got us to our destination without any hassle. Great option for getting around the city.
Very good ride service in Kathmandu. Our driver was friendly and arrived exactly when we expected. The ride was comfortable, the price was reasonable, and communication was easy. I would happily use Axui again.
Axui made getting around Kathmandu much easier for us. The pickup was straightforward, the driver was professional, and the vehicle was comfortable. A reliable service that I would recommend to other travellers visiting Nepal.
An unforgettable 10-day adventure to Annapurna Base Camp with a group of six. Everything was well organized from start to finish, and the support throughout the trek was excellent. The provided down jackets, sleeping bags, and crampons were extremely helpful in the cold mountain conditions. The team was professional, patient, knowledgeable, and attentive to everyone's needs. A fantastic experience that we will always remember.
Did this with my brother and it was the bonding experience we needed after years of adult life pulling us in different directions. Day 8 to Lobuche we were both struggling with altitude and walked very slowly, side by side, not saying much — and it was the most connected I've felt to him in years. Kala Patthar sunrise we both stood in silence for a long time. No words needed. That's what the mountains do.
I want to specifically say that the cultural experience goes far beyond the mountains. The Sherpa people, their Buddhist faith, their relationship with mountains they consider sacred — spending 14 days immersed in that world genuinely changed my perspective. Guide Pasang was a natural teacher of his culture, sharing it generously and thoughtfully. The mountains were the backdrop; the culture was the heart.
The Lukla flight alone is worth the trip. Nothing prepares you for that 20-minute flight banking between Himalayan peaks and landing on that tiny uphill runway with a cliff at the end. Then you step out and the Himalayas are just everywhere. 14 days later at Kala Patthar watching Everest in the dawn light, I understood why people dedicate their lives to these mountains. Our guide Tenzing was world class.
My 65th birthday present to myself — Everest Base Camp. Many people my age thought I was being reckless. I was being brave. The guide managed my pace carefully and checked my oxygen twice daily without being alarmist. I felt looked after and capable simultaneously. On Day 10 at Kala Patthar, 5,545m, watching the sun rise over the world's highest mountain, I felt more alive than I have in years.
The guide's knowledge of high-altitude medicine was genuinely impressive — he explained the physiology of acclimatization to us every evening in simple terms. Daily pulse oximeter readings became a ritual everyone looked forward to. The scientific understanding of what my body was doing at each altitude stage turned anxiety into fascination. Brilliant experience, brilliant operator. Kala Patthar at dawn remains my proudest achievement.
I chose this trek for my 50th year and could not be happier. Guide Nima was extraordinary — experienced, medically knowledgeable, culturally rich in his storytelling, and genuinely warm with everyone. The acclimatization schedule was perfectly designed and I had zero altitude problems. Tengboche at the evening puja, the Khumbu Glacier at Base Camp, and the Kala Patthar sunrise — three peak moments in a trek full of peak moments.
I've wanted to do this since university when I first read Into Thin Air. Twelve years later I finally did it. The reality is even better than the book describes — the colors of the prayer flags, the sound of the Dudh Koshi River, the absolute silence above 5,000m. Our guide Nima was one of the best humans I've ever spent two weeks with. This trek is a masterpiece.
I want to write a review that might encourage someone on the fence. I am 44, female, not particularly athletic, and I completed the Everest Base Camp Trek. I trained seriously, followed the guide's instructions exactly, didn't skip acclimatization days, drank 4 liters of water every day. And I stood at 5,545m watching the sun rise over Everest. If you're considering it — stop considering and book it.
The organization before the trek was faultless. On the trail, guide Nima could identify every peak visible from every viewpoint, explain the geology of the glaciers, and share Sherpa folklore by the fire every evening. The Khumbu region is more beautiful than any photograph suggests. Everest from Kala Patthar at sunrise is the most beautiful thing I will ever see in my life. 5 stars without hesitation.
My mother said don't go. My doctor said go. I went. I'm so glad I went. I'm 50 and I have now stood at Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar. I have watched the sunrise over the world's highest mountain. I have eaten dal bhat at 5,000m while the temperature outside was minus ten. I have sat in the Tengboche Monastery at the evening puja. I have come home a completely different person. Thank you Inticketo.
My group of 4 friends did this together and it was the best decision we've ever made collectively. The shared experience of the harder days — especially Day 9 to Base Camp — brought us closer than any other trip we've done. Our guide Mingma was exceptional with group dynamics. The Tengboche Monastery experience at sunset will stay with me forever. Highly recommend.
As a Bangladeshi trekker I want to say that the EBC trail welcomes everyone. I encountered trekkers from every continent and the shared experience created instant community transcending nationality, language and background. Guide Pasang came from a Sherpa family with three generations of guiding experience. Base Camp was the physical destination. The whole journey was the real achievement. Inticketo made it possible.
The photos online don't do it justice. The mountains look big in photos — in person they are incomprehensibly enormous. You feel genuinely small among them but in the best possible way. Day 5 to Tengboche with Ama Dablam right there — I literally gasped. Guide Tenzing was patient and knowledgeable, the tea house owners warm and welcoming. Then Kala Patthar at 4am in every layer I owned. Perfect.
Really smooth experience with Axui in Kathmandu. The driver arrived on time, the car was clean, and the whole ride felt safe and comfortable. Booking was also very easy.
Sarah ThompsonKuala Lumpur, Malaysia · September 22, 2026
An amazing trekking experience! The entire journey was well organized, enjoyable, and memorable. The support throughout the trek was excellent, with friendly and attentive guidance every step of the way. Everyone was well looked after, and the overall experience felt safe, comfortable, and stress-free. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a wonderful trekking adventure in Nepal!
Used Axui for a few rides around Kathmandu and was impressed with the service. The driver was polite, knew the roads well, and got us to our destination without any hassle. Great option for getting around the city.
Very good ride service in Kathmandu. Our driver was friendly and arrived exactly when we expected. The ride was comfortable, the price was reasonable, and communication was easy. I would happily use Axui again.
Axui made getting around Kathmandu much easier for us. The pickup was straightforward, the driver was professional, and the vehicle was comfortable. A reliable service that I would recommend to other travellers visiting Nepal.
An unforgettable 10-day adventure to Annapurna Base Camp with a group of six. Everything was well organized from start to finish, and the support throughout the trek was excellent. The provided down jackets, sleeping bags, and crampons were extremely helpful in the cold mountain conditions. The team was professional, patient, knowledgeable, and attentive to everyone's needs. A fantastic experience that we will always remember.
Did this with my brother and it was the bonding experience we needed after years of adult life pulling us in different directions. Day 8 to Lobuche we were both struggling with altitude and walked very slowly, side by side, not saying much — and it was the most connected I've felt to him in years. Kala Patthar sunrise we both stood in silence for a long time. No words needed. That's what the mountains do.
I want to specifically say that the cultural experience goes far beyond the mountains. The Sherpa people, their Buddhist faith, their relationship with mountains they consider sacred — spending 14 days immersed in that world genuinely changed my perspective. Guide Pasang was a natural teacher of his culture, sharing it generously and thoughtfully. The mountains were the backdrop; the culture was the heart.
The Lukla flight alone is worth the trip. Nothing prepares you for that 20-minute flight banking between Himalayan peaks and landing on that tiny uphill runway with a cliff at the end. Then you step out and the Himalayas are just everywhere. 14 days later at Kala Patthar watching Everest in the dawn light, I understood why people dedicate their lives to these mountains. Our guide Tenzing was world class.
My 65th birthday present to myself — Everest Base Camp. Many people my age thought I was being reckless. I was being brave. The guide managed my pace carefully and checked my oxygen twice daily without being alarmist. I felt looked after and capable simultaneously. On Day 10 at Kala Patthar, 5,545m, watching the sun rise over the world's highest mountain, I felt more alive than I have in years.
The guide's knowledge of high-altitude medicine was genuinely impressive — he explained the physiology of acclimatization to us every evening in simple terms. Daily pulse oximeter readings became a ritual everyone looked forward to. The scientific understanding of what my body was doing at each altitude stage turned anxiety into fascination. Brilliant experience, brilliant operator. Kala Patthar at dawn remains my proudest achievement.
I chose this trek for my 50th year and could not be happier. Guide Nima was extraordinary — experienced, medically knowledgeable, culturally rich in his storytelling, and genuinely warm with everyone. The acclimatization schedule was perfectly designed and I had zero altitude problems. Tengboche at the evening puja, the Khumbu Glacier at Base Camp, and the Kala Patthar sunrise — three peak moments in a trek full of peak moments.
I've wanted to do this since university when I first read Into Thin Air. Twelve years later I finally did it. The reality is even better than the book describes — the colors of the prayer flags, the sound of the Dudh Koshi River, the absolute silence above 5,000m. Our guide Nima was one of the best humans I've ever spent two weeks with. This trek is a masterpiece.
I want to write a review that might encourage someone on the fence. I am 44, female, not particularly athletic, and I completed the Everest Base Camp Trek. I trained seriously, followed the guide's instructions exactly, didn't skip acclimatization days, drank 4 liters of water every day. And I stood at 5,545m watching the sun rise over Everest. If you're considering it — stop considering and book it.
The organization before the trek was faultless. On the trail, guide Nima could identify every peak visible from every viewpoint, explain the geology of the glaciers, and share Sherpa folklore by the fire every evening. The Khumbu region is more beautiful than any photograph suggests. Everest from Kala Patthar at sunrise is the most beautiful thing I will ever see in my life. 5 stars without hesitation.
My mother said don't go. My doctor said go. I went. I'm so glad I went. I'm 50 and I have now stood at Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar. I have watched the sunrise over the world's highest mountain. I have eaten dal bhat at 5,000m while the temperature outside was minus ten. I have sat in the Tengboche Monastery at the evening puja. I have come home a completely different person. Thank you Inticketo.
My group of 4 friends did this together and it was the best decision we've ever made collectively. The shared experience of the harder days — especially Day 9 to Base Camp — brought us closer than any other trip we've done. Our guide Mingma was exceptional with group dynamics. The Tengboche Monastery experience at sunset will stay with me forever. Highly recommend.
As a Bangladeshi trekker I want to say that the EBC trail welcomes everyone. I encountered trekkers from every continent and the shared experience created instant community transcending nationality, language and background. Guide Pasang came from a Sherpa family with three generations of guiding experience. Base Camp was the physical destination. The whole journey was the real achievement. Inticketo made it possible.
The photos online don't do it justice. The mountains look big in photos — in person they are incomprehensibly enormous. You feel genuinely small among them but in the best possible way. Day 5 to Tengboche with Ama Dablam right there — I literally gasped. Guide Tenzing was patient and knowledgeable, the tea house owners warm and welcoming. Then Kala Patthar at 4am in every layer I owned. Perfect.
Perfect organization from start to finish. The briefing in Kathmandu was thorough and our guide Nima spoke excellent English with encyclopedic mountain knowledge. The Tengboche Monastery evening puja — monks chanting, incense burning, Ama Dablam glowing outside the window — was something I will never forget. Then Kala Patthar at dawn. This trek is worth everything.
I'm a marathon runner and assumed the trek would feel easy. It didn't — altitude humbles everyone regardless of fitness. Our guide Pemba was firm when he needed to be (made me slow down on Day 3 when I wanted to race — he was completely right). Kala Patthar at dawn was my Everest moment. The most peaceful, overwhelming, beautiful thing. I was completely present for every second. Perfect.
I want to say to every African reading this — this trek is for you too. The mountains belong to everyone. Our guide Dawa was welcoming and wonderful, the Sherpa communities were warm and genuinely curious about where I was from. Standing at Base Camp I felt something that transcends nationality and culture. Inticketo made every logistical detail stress-free. Greatest thing I have ever done.
I nearly cancelled this trek twice — once when reading about altitude sickness, once when I got a cold 10 days before departure. Both times the Inticketo team talked me through my concerns with patience and genuine knowledge. I went. I completed every single day. I stood at 5,545m watching the sun rise over Everest. The two moments I almost cancelled feel like the two most important decisions I ever made correctly.
I'm a landscape photographer and I've been to some of the most visually spectacular places on Earth. Nothing has prepared me for the Khumbu. The light changes every minute. The scale defeats any lens I own. The colors — the blue of glacial rivers, the red and orange of prayer flags, the white and grey of high peaks — extraordinary in combination. I took 4,000 photographs and none fully captures it. You have to be there.
From South America to South Asia to stand at the base of Everest — it still doesn't feel real. The trek was perfectly organized, the guide exceptional, and the Khumbu region unlike anything I've experienced anywhere. Day 5 to Tengboche with Ama Dablam right there in front of me — I literally gasped out loud. And then Kala Patthar. And then Everest at sunrise. I've run out of superlatives.
I'm a yoga teacher and thought my breathing would help at altitude. It did — a little — but nothing fully prepares you for 5,000 meters. What made the difference was the guide's experience and the itinerary's pacing. The two acclimatization days are non-negotiable and I'm glad the schedule enforced them. Day 9 was the hardest day of my life and also the best. Kala Patthar made every hard moment irrelevant.
Everything exceeded my expectations. The Sherpa culture alone is worth the journey — the prayer flags, the mani walls, the monasteries, the warmth of local people in every village. Our guide Kami was thoughtful and incredibly patient. The views of Ama Dablam from Tengboche made me stop walking and just stare. Kala Patthar at sunrise made me completely forget I was exhausted and freezing.
Nobody ever mentions the food enough in these reviews. The dal bhat in the tea houses is genuinely delicious and the unlimited refills policy is one of the best things that exists at any altitude. The apple pies in Namche bakeries should be internationally famous. The garlic soup at Lobuche saved my soul on a cold evening when everything felt hard. And the farewell dinner in Kathmandu on Day 13 was perfect.
This is the first review I've written without being asked. It deserves one. The trek is physically demanding, the tea houses are basic above 4,000m, and the altitude is very real — but none of that matters when you're at Kala Patthar watching the most spectacular sunrise on the planet. Guide was exceptional, health monitoring was thorough, every detail handled perfectly. A customer for life.
I'm a doctor and I've always been curious about high altitude physiology. Flying above Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar, understanding what climbers experience at that altitude — it was fascinating beyond just the visual. But the visual was extraordinary too. Ama Dablam from the helicopter looks like something from a different planet. Breakfast at Hotel Everest View was magical.
I teach environmental science and climate change. The Khumbu Glacier from above tells the story of climate change more powerfully than any academic paper or presentation I've ever given. The glacial retreat is visible. The moraines tell the story. The meltwater lakes that didn't exist 30 years ago are right there below you. Beyond the extraordinary beauty — and it is extraordinarily beautiful — this tour gave me classroom material that will move my students more than any slide deck. Book it. See it. Understand it.
I came to Nepal for a yoga retreat and added the helicopter tour on an impulse on my last day. I am a contemplative person — slow travel, minimal tourism, deep experience. I wondered if a helicopter tour could deliver that. It did. Flying above the Khumbu in near-silence, watching the glaciers from altitude, the stillness of Hotel Everest View terrace with Everest in front of you — this tour has a meditative quality I did not expect. Extraordinary.
I was terrified by altitude sickness before going — read everything and scared myself. In reality the acclimatization was well-managed, the guide was constantly monitoring everyone, and the pace was conservative enough that I never felt out of control. Day 9 to Base Camp is genuinely hard but manageable with the right support. Standing at EBC I felt both tiny and enormous simultaneously.
Second trekking experience after the Inca Trail last year and the difference in scale is almost laughable — and I mean that as the highest possible compliment to EBC. The Inca Trail is beautiful. But the Himalayas are in a completely different category. Guide Pemba was outstanding. I felt altitude hard at Lobuche and the rest day made all the difference. Base Camp and Kala Patthar — things I will never stop talking about.
I want to tell every African traveler — Nepal is worth the journey and the Everest helicopter tour is worth the price. The Khumbu from the air is something no documentary, no photograph, no travel blog fully captures. You need to be there, in the window seat, watching the glaciers from above and feeling the scale of those peaks. Hotel Everest View with Everest right there — no description does it justice. Just go.
People ask me why I flew from Ghana to Nepal for a four-hour helicopter tour. I tell them: because Everest. Because flying above the Khumbu Icefall at dawn with the world's highest mountain filling the window. Because breakfast at a hotel that holds the Guinness World Record for highest altitude. Because there are some experiences that justify the journey entirely on their own merit. This is one of them.
Excellent organization and an outstanding guide. Lakpa had 18 years of experience and it showed in every single decision on the trail. He knew which tea house had the best food, which viewpoints to pause at for photos, and when to slow down before any of us asked. The daily oxygen checks gave huge peace of mind. Reached Base Camp and Kala Patthar with zero serious altitude problems.
Peter McCarthyAdelaide, Australia · April 23, 2025
A wonderful trek through the Annapurna region. The first few days were challenging, but the breathtaking Himalayan scenery made every step worthwhile. The equipment provided was excellent and especially useful in the freezing conditions. Reaching Annapurna Base Camp at 4,100 metres was an unforgettable highlight. The comfortable teahouses, good food, spectacular mountain views, and beautiful wildlife made this a truly memorable adventure.
I'm a landscape photographer and I've shot in Patagonia, Iceland, and the Dolomites. The aerial view of the Khumbu from a helicopter is a completely different photographic experience to any of those. The scale is impossible to capture fully but the attempt is extraordinary. Flying directly above the Khumbu Glacier with Everest filling the frame above — nothing in my portfolio comes close to those shots.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek 
Everest Region
Thamel (Kathmandu)
Kathmandu Airport (Kathmandu)
Annapurna Region (Pokhara)
Basantapur (Kathmandu)
