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Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Nepal, is home to the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest (8,848.86 m), known as Sagarmatha in Nepali. The name Sagarmatha is derived from the Nepali words sagar (sky) and matha (head), translating to “Forehead of the Sky“. The Tibetan name for Mount Everest is Chomolungma, meaning “Goddess Mother of the World“. Located in the Solukhumbu district of Nepal, the park is renowned for its mountain scenery, glaciers, and biodiversity, as well as the unique culture of the Sherpa people.
The park was established on July 19, 1976, to protect the ecosystem and cultural heritage. The park covers 1,148 sq km in the Khumbu region of northeastern Nepal, extending to the Tibetan border in the north. In addition to Mount Everest, the park contains numerous other peaks over 6,000 m, including Lhotse, Cho Oyu, and Ama Dablam. The landscapes include a network of massive glaciers, such as the Khumbu and Ngozumpa, as well as glacial rivers like the Dudh Koshi.
The Sagarmatha region gained international attention in 1953 when Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa made the first successful ascent of Mount Everest. Tourism began to take hold in the early 1960s, leading to the development of trekking routes and teahouses. It is a place of natural wonder, rich culture, and remarkable adventure.
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Transportation Options to Reach Sagarmatha National Park
Reaching Sagarmatha National Park is an adventure in itself, with several transportation options available for travelers. From flights to roads, you can choose the mode that suits your schedule and budget. Most trekkers combine air and road travel to begin their journey towards Everest Base Camp.
Driving to Jiri, then Trekking
One of the traditional routes to reach Sagarmatha National Park begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Jiri. It is a historic path taken by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay in 1953. While Jiri is the traditional start, some trek begins a bit further down, at locations like Bhandar or Sivalaya.
The trek from Jiri to Sagarmatha National Park takes 7–11 days and is considered demanding. Permits such as Sagarmatha National Park and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality are required for this trek. Highlights along the route include Lamjurala Pass, Sherpa villages such as Bhandar, Junbesi, and Nunthala, and stunning views of Mount Everest.
Flight to Lukla and Trekking
The most popular way to reach Sagarmatha National Park is by taking a short, scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, known as the gateway to the Everest region. It is the faster option than driving to Jiri. The small, propeller-driven aircraft carry 15 to 20 passengers and operate primarily in the early morning for the best weather conditions.
This option takes around 2 days to reach the park. The best seasons for the flight are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). During the flight, you can enjoy aerial views of the Mahalangur Himalayan Range, including Everest, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam, as well as the Dudh Koshi River and valley.
Note: During peak season, direct flights to Lukla may be fully booked; travelers can drive from Kathmandu to Manthali (Ramechhap) and take a flight from there to begin their trek towards Sagarmatha National Park.
Famous Trekking Itineraries from Sagarmatha National Park
The Major Attraction: Everest Base Camp
Everest Base Camp Trek is the ultimate destination for trekkers visiting Sagarmatha National Park, which takes them to the base of Mount Everest at 5,364 m. It lies on the southern face of Mount Everest, and the entire trekking route to get there passes through the park. The trek usually takes 10-14 days from Lukla and is considered moderate to challenging due to high-altitude trails and long daily walks.
Costs around USD 1,260-1,815 per person
Offer beautiful views of Mount Everest, Lhotse (8,516 m), Thamserku (6,623 m), Ama Dablam (6,812 m), and Nuptse (7,861 m) from the high trails
Includes a visit to the Khumbu Glacier and Kalapatthar (5,545 m)
Provide cultural encounters at Khumjung and Tengboche Monastery (Dawa Choling Monastery).
The Turquoise Colored Gokyo Lakes Trek
The Gokyo Lake Trek is another popular journey within Sagarmatha National Park. This trek follows the same initial route as the EBC trek from the Lukla airport and separates at Namche Bazaar. Within the park, the Gokyo trek is renowned due to its series of turquoise glacial lakes, which are considered the world’s highest freshwater lake system and are designated a Ramsar site.
Costs USD 1710 – 2,000 per person
Cross and walk alongside the Ngozumpa glacier (36 km), the longest glacier in Nepal
Hike up to Gokyo Ri for a view of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu
Visit three of the main Gokyo lakes: Longpanga Tsho, Taujung Tsho, and Gokyo Tsho (Dudh Pokhari).
Everest Base Camp Trek is every trekker’s dream adventure. It takes you right to the foot of the world’s tallest mountain, Mount Everest (8,848.86 m) at 5,364 meters. One of the best experiences is the early morning hike to Kala Patthar (5,545 meters), where you get incredible views of Everest, Lhotse (8,516 m), Nuptse (7,861 m), and other giant peaks. The best time to do the EBC trek is during Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November).
You’ll follow the classic route through the Khumbu Valley, starting with green forests and terraced hills. As you go higher, the landscape changes to rocky alpine paths and glaciers. Along the way, you’ll cross famous suspension bridges, see flowing rivers, and walk near the massive Khumbu Glacier. Important landmarks include Namche Bazaar (a lively mountain town), Tengboche Monastery (a peaceful place with amazing mountain views), and memorial sites that honor climbers from the past. You will also pass through traditional Sherpa villages, offering a unique opportunity to experience the Nepali Sherpa culture and spirituality.
Your trek begins with a thrilling flight from Kathmandu or Manthali to Lukla (2,840 meters), where the trail starts. From Lukla, you’ll take an easy walk to Phakding and then head to Namche Bazaar. After that, you will move on to Tengboche, Dingboche, and Lobuche, where the terrain gets rougher. The final part of the trek is the exciting hike to Everest Base Camp and the sunrise hike to Kala Patthar. At the end of the trek, you will carry unforgettable memories and a trekking experience that will last a lifetime.
If you want to avoid the busier trails of the Everest region and hike on the rare and isolated ones, the 13-day Gokyo Lake Trek is a perfect adventure. Its remote routes go through dense forests to high meadows and glaciers to the less-traveled part of the region. Similarly, the trek allows you to trek within Sagarmatha National Park and see its various flora and fauna.
Gokyo Valley is a less-explored part of the Khumbu region and is home to the world’s highest freshwater system, the Gokyo Lakes. The valley consists of six of the most picturesque and stunning lakes that sit at an elevation of 4700 to 5000 meters. The lake’s fresh turquoise waters will attract each traveler’s heart.
Similarly, along the trail, you will visit many villages with traditional houses, monasteries, and beautiful hillside scenery. And your stay at small, locally run teahouses will offer genuine cultural immersion.
Another exciting highlight of the trek is the stunning view of the environment and the mountains. On the Gokyo Lake trek, you will see the majestic Mount Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho-Oyu, and more. The journey also offers a rare opportunity to see the largest glacier in the country, the Ngozumpa Glacier. Additionally, combining the Gokyo Valley Trek with the iconic Everest Base Camp is also an option. It perfectly combines adventure, nature, and culture in a single journey.
Island Peak Climbing (also known as Imja Tse climbing) is another renowned climbing adventure inside the National Park. The route begins at Lukla, then goes through Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar and Dingboche, and eventually to Chhukung before heading to Island Peak Base Camp. The climb usually takes 14-16 days and is graded as challenging because it requires basic mountaineering skills like using crampons, ropes, and ice axes.
Costs USD 2,751 – 2,800 per person
Climb to the 6,189 m summit to enjoy the view of Lhotse Middle (8,414 m), Lhotse Shar (8,383 m), Mount Makalu (8,485 m), Baruntse (7,129 m), and Ama Dablam
Learn basic mountaineering techniques under the guidance of experienced climbing Sherpas
Acclimatize at Namche and Chhukung, and go for a side hike to Everest View Hotel, Khumjung Valley, and Chhukung Ri.
Everest Two Passes and Three High Passes Trek for More Adventure Seekers
The Everest Two Passes and Three Passes Trek is one of the most adventurous routes within Sagarmatha National Park. It is designed for trekkers looking for a complete and challenging Himalayan experience. The journey lasts 16-18 days and is rated challenging due to high altitude, long walking days, and steep climbs.
Costs around USD 1,550 for the Two Pass Trek and USD 1,885 for Three Pass Trek
Cross three high mountain passes: Kongma La (5,535 m), Cho La (5,420 m), and Renjo La (5,360 m)
Visit popular stops like Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes, and Gokyo Ri in a single trek
Discover traditional Sherpa villages, monasteries, and local lifestyles across the Khumbu region.
Island Peak Climbing is a thrilling Himalayan adventure that will take you to 6,189 meters in Nepal’s Everest region. Island Peak is also known as Imja Tse, where “Imja” refers to the valley and “Tse” means peak. Island Peak is a perfect climbing expedition for trekkers who want to do their first Himalayan summit without requiring advanced technical skills . This journey follows the classic Everest base camp trekking route through Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Dingboche.
During the trip, you have a pre-climb training session at base camp to prepare you for the summit push. The climb itself is intense with many glacier crossings, fixed ropes, and a steep ice wall leading to the summit ridge. But the reward? Ethereal 360° views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Ama Dablam. With experienced Sherpa guides and a carefully paced itinerary, Island Peak Climbing offers the ideal blend of challenge, altitude, and high-mountain achievement.
The Everest Three High Pass trek presents a challenging yet rewarding journey through the Khumbu region of Nepal. It involves crossing three Everest high passes: Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La. The route enters the Everest Base Camp and lovely Gokyo Valley, famous for its crystal-clear Gokyo lakes, Ngozumpa glacier, and panoramic view from Gokyo Ri.
The trek begins along the classic Everest Base Camp (5,364m). Before reaching it, you face the first and toughest pass, Kongma La (5,535m). It is difficult to cross this rugged trail, but the views of the Khumbu Glacier, Nuptse, and surrounding peaks make every step worthwhile. Standing at Everest Base Camp afterward feels like a true reward, and a climb to Kala Patthar (5,550m) gives you the best sunrise over Everest itself.
From here, the trail turns toward the second challenge, Cho La Pass (5,420m). This steep, icy route connects the Everest region with the stunning Gokyo Valley. The view from the top of Cho La Pass is simply great, with excellent sights of major peaks like Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Cho Oyu.
In Gokyo, you enjoy the serene Gokyo Lakes and the mighty Ngozumpa Glacier before facing the final pass, Renjo La (5,360m). This crossing offers some of the most breathtaking panoramas of the entire trek: Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, and the turquoise lakes below. Throughout the trek, you also experience the lively Sherpa culture, stay in traditional villages, and witness life in the high Himalayas. and the scenic Himalayan vistas.
The Everest Three Pass Trek includes the peaceful beauty of the Gokyo Lakes, the thrill of crossing three high mountain passes, and the fulfillment of attaining the Everest Base Camp trek. It is a high-altitude trek suitable for experienced trekkers who want to push beyond the usual trails and explore the wilder side of the Himalayas.
Sagarmatha National Park is home to high mountain landscapes, Sherpa culture, and a unique high-altitude ecosystem. The park offers much more than the Everest Base Camp trek, with a variety of attractions that attract trekkers, climbers, and cultural explorers. Here are some main highlights:
Khumbu Glacier at the Park’s Center
Khumbu Glacier is the highest glacier in Nepal. It is located in the center of Sagarmatha National Park and originates from the Western Cwm, a valley between Mount Everest and Lhotse-Nuptse ridge. The Khumbu glacier is 17 km long, with elevations ranging from 4,900 m to 7,600 m. One of the most noticeable features of the glacier is the Khumbu Icefall. Most of the trekkers and mountaineers visit the Everest region just to see it.
Gokyo Lakes: High Altitude Fresh Water
The Gokyo Lakes are a system of six main high-altitude freshwater lakes located in the Khumbu region of Sagarmatha National Park. Lying between 4,700 and 5,000 m, they are fed by the meltwater of the Ngozumpa glacier. The lake provides a vital high-altitude wetland ecosystem and habitat for various alpine flora and fauna. In 2007, the Gokyo Lakes and surrounding wetlands were named as a Ramsar site for their international importance in conservation and biodiversity.
Panoramic View of Mount Everest and Other High Peaks
There are several locations within the park that offer a panoramic view of Mount Everest and the surrounding peaks. From Kala Patthar, you can see Nuptse, Lhotse, Pumori, and Changtse. From Gokyo Ri, you can see Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. From Hotel Everest View, you can see Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Thamserku, and from Renjo La Pass, you can see Cho Oyu, the Mahalangur Himal range, and Everest. These are the main viewpoints for observing tall mountains in a single frame.
Kalapatthar Sunrise View
Kala Patthar (5,545 m) is one of the most popular vantage points in Sagarmatha National Park. From the top, trekkers can witness the beautiful sunrise view when the first golden rays illuminate Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam. The hike to Kala Patthar begins from Gorak Shep, the highest village on the trail, around 4:00 to 5:00 a.m. The view of Kala Patthar is appreciated because, unlike from EBC, the summit of Mount Everest is not obstructed by the Nuptse wall.
Tengboche Monastery: A Formal Religious Experience at High Altitude
Tengboche Monastery is a renowned Tibetan Buddhist monastery situated at 3,867 m within the park. The monastery is famous for its location on a hill, with the Ama Dablam forming a backdrop. Trekkers often stop here to receive blessings for a safe journey to the Everest region and back. The monastery is home to a large statue of Shakyamuni Buddha (often two stories tall), along with a smaller statue of Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) and Manjushri.
Himalayan Wildlife and Biodiversity
Sagarmatha National Park is not only famous for its 8,000 m peak but also for its rich wildlife and biodiversity. It is an important Bird Area (IBA) and is home to over 200 species of birds, at least 26 species of mammals, and 865 species of plants. Rare and endangered species include the snow leopard, red panda, Himalayan tahr, musk deer, Himalayan black bear, Himalayan serow, and langur monkeys. High altitude birds such as the Himalayan monal, blood pheasant, snowcock, bearded vulture, and bar-headed goose are also commonly found.
The plant life in the park changes with the elevation, creating different vegetation zones. The lower regions up to 3,000 m are full of pine, hemlock, and fir forests. As you ascend (3,000-4,000 m), the forest gives way to birch, juniper, and scrub rhododendron. Above treeline between 4,000-5,000 m, the landscape is dominated by alpine meadows, hardy grasses, and shrubs that can survive the harsh conditions. Above 5,000 m, the zone consists of bare rock, glaciers, and permanent ice.
Trekkers and nature enthusiasts visiting the region can observe these species in their natural environment. These ecosystem makes the park a key destination for wildlife appreciation and ecological study in the Himalayas.
What are the Permit Requirements for Visiting Sagarmatha National Park
Before entering the park, travelers must obtain the necessary permits for Sagarmatha National Park. These permits ensure safe trekking experiences in the Everest region.
Permit Name
Purpose
Cost (Nepalese Nationals)
Cost (SAARC Nationals)
Cost (Other Foreign Nationals)
Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
Required to enter the park and trek inside
NPR 100 (USD 0.71)
NPR 1,500 (USD 10.65)
NPR 3,000 (USD 21.3)
Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit
Needed for Local government regulation
NPR 3,000 (USD 21.3)
Same as Nepalese Citizens
Same as Nepalese Citizens
Note: A TIMS card is not required to trek in Sagarmatha National Park in 2025. It has been replaced by a local permit (Pasang Lhamu Rural Permit) system for the Everest region.
Tips for Visiting Sagarmatha National Park
Before Visiting:
Check health and fitness: Ensure you are physically prepared for high-altitude trekking and consult a doctor if needed
Plan your route: Decide whether you’ll trek via Lukla, Jiri, or another route, and book flights or transport accordingly. You can book with us, and we’ll manage all the route and transportation options for you.
Pack essential gear: Prepare trekking boots, warm clothing, backpacks, and other necessary equipment before departure.
Arrange insurance: Get travel and trekking insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and emergencies.
During the Visit:
Follow park rules: Respect Sagarmatha National Park regulations, stay on marked trails, and avoid disturbing wildlife.
Acclimatize properly: Take rest days at higher altitudes to help your body adapt to the thin air.
Monitor your health: Watch for symptoms of altitude sickness, fatigue, or dehydration, and inform your guide
Keep the environment clean: Avoid littering and use eco-friendly practices to protect the natural beauty of the park.
After Visiting:
Share your experience: Document your trek photos, videos, or a travel journal to inspire others
Provide feedback: Leave reviews for guides, lodges, or trekking companies to help future travelers
Support local communities: Purchase handicrafts or souvenirs from Sherpa artisans to contribute to the local economy
Plan your next adventure: Use your experience to prepare better for future treks or mountaineering trips in the Himalayas.
The Everest Two Passes Trek is a challenging trek in the Everest region that takes you across two high mountain passes, Kongma La Pass (5,535M/18,160FT) and Cho La Pass (5,368M/17,512FT). You will also reach two of the best viewpoints, Kala Patthar (5,555M/18,225FT) and Gokyo Ri (5,357M/17,575FT), while also standing at the world-famous Everest Base Camp (5,364M/17,598FT).
The journey is best for trekkers who are fit and well-prepared, as the Everest Two Pass trek trail includes steep climbs and high-altitude walks. In return, you get incredible views of four of the tallest mountains on earth: Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. The trek route also takes you through peaceful valleys like Dole and Gokyo, which are known for their quiet beauty and remote atmosphere.
The journey begins with a short flight to Lukla and then continues on foot through Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, and Chhukung. From Chhukung, the trail climbs higher to cross Kongma La before reaching Chhukung. The trail then leads to Gorak Shep. From Gorak Shep, you will visit Everest Base Camp, where climbers set up their tents before starting their climb to the summit, and hike to Kala Patthar, one of the most popular Everest viewpoints.
After exploring the Everest Base Camp area, the journey continues over another pass, Cho La Pass, which connects the Everest and Gokyo valleys. Crossing this pass gives you incredible views of Himalayan peaks and Gokyo lakes before descending into the beautiful Gokyo Valley. In Gokyo, you can visit the turquoise Gokyo Lakes and climb Gokyo Ri, which many trekkers consider the best spot in the Everest region to see the whole Himalayan range.
The return journey follows the Everest trekking route down the Gokyo Valley through villages like Dole, Namche Bazaar, and finally returns to Lukla. From Lukla, you fly back to Kathmandu with unforgettable memories.
The Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return is the perfect way to experience the adventure and comfort in Nepal’s most iconic Everest trekking region while saving time and energy. Normally, the full round-trip to Everest Base Camp from Lukla takes about 12 days to 16 days, covering 130 kilometers. But with this Everest Base Camp Trek with a Helicopter Return Trip, you hike only about 65 kilometers to reach Everest Base Camp. Instead of trekking back, you take a helicopter from Gorak Shep to return to Kathmandu. This means you skip the long, tiring return walk without missing any of the important sights.
The EBC Trek with Helicopter Return Route is more than just a shortcut and a luxury. It adds a new level of experience. From above the sky, you’ll see the Khumbu Glacier, mountain valleys, and the very trails you walked on. Flying over Mount Everest and nearby peaks gives you unforgettable aerial views that most trekkers don’t get.
Not to mention, even with a shorter trek, you still get the full Everest experience. You will pass through Sagarmatha National Park, where you’ll spot wildlife and beautiful alpine landscapes. You’ll also visit lively Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar and Tengboche, explore ancient monasteries, and enjoy warm local hospitality. In less time, you’ll stand at Everest Base Camp and take in the incredible Himalayas, ending your journey with a smooth and memorable helicopter flight home. This trek is a great choice for people who are short on time or want to reduce the physical stress of a full round-trip hike to EBC.
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