Nepal’s (or should we make the world’s?) most famous mountain playground, the Everest region is a high-altitude world of superlative scenery, big views and deep, deep valleys. Of course, trekking is one of the main reasons many come here, and the classic hiking area is within UNESCO Sagarmatha National Park, presided over by the towering peaks of Mount Everest. Many start with a flight into Lukla, then continue on foot through villages like Namche Bazaar, a major stop on the way to Everest Base Camp and a lively meeting point for Sherpas and traders. But if you don’t want to trek, do not fear! There are several scenic flight options from Kathmandu that swoop over the region for those breathtaking views without the hiking boots – and arguably better photos. However you do it, Everest for us is less about ticking boxes and more about spending time in a landscape that makes everything else feel… a bit smaller (in a good way).
<p class="rte-paragraph">There's no way around it: the Everest region is bucket-list territory. Even if you've no intention of tackling the summit (and let's face it, most of us haven't), the trek to Base Camp delivers that spine-tingling proximity to the world's highest peak – plus bragging rights that'll last a lifetime. The Khumbu Valley is dramatic from the first step, with suspension bridges strung across rushing gorges and Sherpa villages clinging to impossibly steep hillsides. Namche Bazaar makes for a bustling halfway point, while Tengboche Monastery offers spiritual respite with Everest and Ama Dablam as its backdrop. For those craving a different kind of adrenaline, white water rafting on the Sun Koshi or Bhote Koshi rivers adds some serious thrills to the journey in or out – a wet and wild contrast to all that high-altitude hiking.</p>
This is a landscape that most of the world recognises, and, paired with big skies and fluttering prayer flags, just being here is iconic.
You might not think of a scenic flight, but Everest by air at sunrise or sunset is, quite simply, magical.
Even on the famous hiking routes, your choices shape the feel of your journey. Build in a few shorter walking days, stop in local villages and travel with local guides to really get a feel for the culture and cadence of the landscape.
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