Phakding Lodge
Riverside lodge stay on your first night of the Everest Base Camp Trek
Stay in Phakding (about 2,610 m) on the Dudh Koshi River, the first overnight stop after flying into Lukla. A lower, gentler first night before the climb to Namche Bazaar.
About Phakding Lodge
Phakding Lodge is in Phakding, a small riverside village at about 2,610 m on the banks of the Dudh Koshi River in Nepal’s Everest region. For most trekkers it is the first night on the Everest Base Camp Trek, reached after the flight into Tenzing-Hillary Airport in Lukla and a gentle walk of around three to four hours down the valley.
Because Phakding sits lower than Lukla, it is a comfortable place to sleep on the first night and let your body begin adjusting before the climb to Namche Bazaar the next day.
Why Stay in Phakding
- Natural first stop after the Lukla flight on the Everest Base Camp route
- Lower altitude than Lukla, which helps with the first night of acclimatisation
- Peaceful riverside setting with suspension bridges, prayer flags and mani walls nearby
- Sets you up for the next day’s walk to Namche Bazaar via Monjo and Jorsale
What the Lodge Is Like
Phakding has comfortable lodges, many with attached bathrooms, hot showers, Wi-Fi and phone charging, plus a warm dining room serving dal bhat, noodles, pasta and Sherpa dishes. Nights are around 0°C in the main seasons, so it is a gentle introduction to teahouse life before the colder lodges higher up.
Getting to Phakding
Fly from Kathmandu (or Ramechhap/Manthali in peak season) to Lukla, then walk roughly three to four hours along the Dudh Koshi valley to Phakding. The next morning, the trail continues to Namche Bazaar, entering Sagarmatha National Park at Monjo and crossing the Hillary Suspension Bridge. Your next night is at Namche Lodge.
Tips for Your First Night
- Take an afternoon walk to Rimishung Monastery above the village to stretch your legs.
- Start drinking plenty of water today; it helps with acclimatisation later.
- Charge your devices here while it is still cheap or free.
- Get an early night: tomorrow’s climb to Namche is one of the hardest days.
Stay Here on Your Trek
Phakding is the first overnight stop on our Everest Base Camp Trek 14 Days, and the stay and meals are included. For questions about rooms or availability, message our team on WhatsApp at +977 971-2067531.
Highlights
- Lower altitude than Lukla for an easier first night
- Riverside setting on the Dudh Koshi
- Suspension bridges, prayer flags and mani walls nearby
- Short, gentle walk from Lukla on arrival day
- Well placed for the next day's walk to Namche Bazaar
Amenities
Frequently asked questions
What is the altitude of Phakding?
About 2,610 metres, lower than Lukla, which makes it a good place for the first night of the trek.
How long is the walk from Lukla to Phakding?
Around 3 to 4 hours, mostly gentle and downhill along the Dudh Koshi valley.
Which day of the Everest Base Camp Trek is Phakding?
Day 2 of our 14-day trek, the day you fly into Lukla. The next day you walk on to Namche Bazaar.
Do lodges in Phakding have hot showers and Wi-Fi?
Yes. Phakding lodges are among the most comfortable on the trek, with hot showers, Wi-Fi and charging, and many rooms have attached bathrooms.
How do I book a stay here?
It is included on our Everest Base Camp Trek. For questions about rooms or availability, WhatsApp us at +977 971-2067531.
