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Ultimate Photographic Expedition: The Majesty of Mt. Everest

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Program Overview

Join us on a photographic journey to spiritual Nepal! Nestled between India and Tibet is the Kingdom of Nepal - the country of Mount Everest and Shangri-la of the East.

The rich cultural and artistic heritage of Nepal is synthesized in the capital city of Kathmandu, which lies in a circular valley surrounded by a crown of forest covered hills, south of the Great Himalayas which stand at an altitude of 5,000 feet.

Successive dynasties have left their marks in the stupendous palaces and temples, sculptures and carvings found throughout the valley.

Rich with temples and innumerable festivals that exceed the number of days in a year, Kathmandu is the largest city of Nepal.

The valley has seven heritage sites enlisted in cultural World Heritage Site list. The city uniquely blends culture with the modern world - it is the administrative capital of the country and a treasure cove of history.


Ultimate Photographic Expedition: The Majesty of Mt. Everest


September 10, 2023 days and September 24, 2023 nights

Your Curriculum

At A Glance

DAY 1: Welcome to Kathmandu!

Welcome to Nepal!

DAY 2: Trek to Phakding

Kathmandu ✈ Lukla (2,840 M) Fly; Trek to Phakding (2,610 M)

DAY 3: Phakding – Namche Bazaar

Today will be a day of rest in Namche Bazaar for acclimatization and independent photography experiences.

DAY 4: Acclimatization at Namche Bazaar

This morning, you have the option to rest at the lodge, or to enjoy a photographic excursion to Khumjung and Kunde for views of Everest.

DAY 5: Namche Bazaar – Tengboche - Debuche

After a hearty breakfast at Namche Bazaar, set out for another day of photography and trekking towards Everest Base Camp!

DAY 6: Debuche – Dinbouche

Our trek today kicks off with a unique photographic opportunity, a walk through the rhododendron forest to Deboche, followed by a bridge over the raging Imja Khol River.

DAY 7: Acclimatization at Dinbouche

This is your chance to rest up before the last leg of our adventure!

DAY 8: Dinbouche – Lobuche

From here onwards, the photography trek will move more gradually and be more challenging, due to the higher altitude.

DAY 9: Everest Base Camp-Ultimate Photography

This is it! The ultimate photographic expedition!

DAY 10: Gorakshep – Kalapathar

Gorakshep – Kalapathar – (5.545M) – Gorak Shep
IMMERSION: SUNRISE PHOTOGRAPHY AT MT. EVEREST

DAY 11: Periche – Namche Trek

Today we make our way from Pheriche!

DAY 12: Namche – Phakding – Lukla

After breakfast, we embark on a photography themed trek toward the Hillary Suspension Bridge and then pass through several local villages.

DAY 13: Lukla  Kathmandu

Proceed to Lukla Airport and board your flight to Kathmandu.

DAY 14: Kathmandu -History and Culture

This morning you will visit Bhaktapur, another city founded in the 9th century.

DAY 15: Kathmandu-NGO Visit

NGO Visit: Morning visit to Mati Nepal- A CNN Hero of the Year

DAY 16: See You Again!

Don’t leave yet!! Extend your journey on one of our numerous programs in India or Bhutan.


Why Learning Journeys?

At Learning Journeys we believe in a new kind of vacation. Our unique journeys help you explore and develop your skills and interest, travel the world, give back to the community and ultimately re-connect with yourself.


The destinations are chosen specifically to make practicing that skill more accessible, and more fun. Typical skills offered are health and wellness, cooking, photography, art, birding and wildlife, language study, architecture, music, dance and more. Programs range from beginner to professional certification. You will even have the opportunity to attend off the beaten path festivals in your specific area of interest which will take your learning immersion to new heights!

Brand Pillars

Transformation

The quest for knowledge as we open our hearts and minds to new experiences can transform us. As we see the world through the eyes of others, the communities we visit and touch are also transformed. This cycle of positive change is at the heart of every Learning Journeys experience.

Education

Learning Journeys is designed to nurture that ember of curiosity inside you into a flame of life-long discovery. Continued learning ensures continued growth, whether pursuing any number of interests that intrigue you or a passion you have honed over the years.

Exploration

Truly, the world is your classroom. Exploring the rich and varied cultures of the destinations you visit multiplies the value of your educational pursuits, and the exploration of yourself. The journey itself – to a new place and new you – is what truly matters.

Self-reflection

Through reflection, we bring learning to life. Pausing from the chaos of our daily lives allows us to sort through experiences to create meaning, from which we learn more deeply about ourselves. Understanding what truly moves us leads to rich and profound actions that shape our lives.

Community service and sustainability is at the core of the Learning Journeys mission. In addition to hands-on interactive classes, we work in the local communities, helping to improve lives and our planet. Destinations are chosen for their exceptional beauty, abundant wildlife, accessibility to expert practitioners, and generally fun places to visit! The destinations are near and far-North America, Latin and South America, Europe, India, Asia, Australia and more.

Finally, just as you remember specific meals from a trip taken many years ago, your ability to recall information is enhanced when combined with a unique setting. “Learning Journeys” are an excellent value for money and an investment.


Departure

<!DOCTYPE html>
<html>
<body>

<p> Join us on a photographic journey to spiritual Nepal! Nestled between India and Tibet is the Kingdom of Nepal - the country of Mount Everest and Shangri-la of the East. </p>
<p> The rich cultural and artistic heritage of Nepal is synthesized in the capital city of Kathmandu, which lies in a circular valley surrounded by a crown of forest covered hills, south of the Great Himalayas which stand at an altitude of 5,000 feet. </p>
<p> Successive dynasties have left their marks in the stupendous palaces and temples, sculptures and carvings found throughout the valley. </p>
<p> Rich with temples and innumerable festivals that exceed the number of days in a year, Kathmandu is the largest city of Nepal. </p>
<p> The valley has seven heritage sites enlisted in cultural World Heritage Site list. The city uniquely blends culture with the modern world - it is the administrative capital of the country and a treasure cove of history. </p>

</body>
</html>

What You Will Learn/Do

Why We Love This Traveling Classroom

<!DOCTYPE html>
<html>
<body>

<p> This private program is ideal for learners who have an interest in photography as well as outdoor, culture, history and spiritual enthusiasts! </p>
<p> There is much Nepal has to offer in its ways of educating tourists who find themselves immersed in this unique and authentic culture. </p>
<p> On this journey, you will get the once in a lifetime chance to take in breathtaking views of the Himalayas by private chartered helicopter! All meals and learning experiences are included. </p>
<p> Between the lively, bustling streets of Kathmandu, and the rich mountainside regions, home to Mt. Everest, this journey is one for the sojourn of the soul. </p>
<p> Read about the life and history of Nepalese Sherpas written by our company’s CEO
https://www.travelresearchonline.com/blog/index.php/2020/01/the-sherpas-of-everest-the-economy-of-the-worlds-tallest-peak/
</p>

</body>
</html>

How This Program Benefits The Local Community

<!DOCTYPE html>
<html>
<body>

<p> Nepal as a country is hugely depended on tourism, with 25% of the GDP coming from tourism & related activities. </p>
<p> While we promote tourism, we are generating employment for the society. When we participate in the workshops, our participants gain first-hand experience of the way of life & religion of the people, as well as knowledge of the social activities engaged by locals to help uplift their society. </p>
<p> The activities incorporated in the program are specifically chosen to help bring positive changes to the society. Learning Journeys is committed to protecting the Sherpa community and to responsible tourism throughout the world. </p>

</body>
</html>


Program

DAY 1: Welcome to Kathmandu!

! The rich cultural and artistic heritage of Nepal is synthesized in Kathmandu, the capital, which lies in a valley, south of the Great Himalayas, which rise to an altitude of 5,000 feet. Successive dynasties have left their marks upon the stupendous palaces, temples, sculptures and carvings found throughout the valley. Kathmandu is also the largest city of Nepal and its festivals exceed the number of days in a year. The valley has seven heritage sites that have been enlisted in cultural World Heritage Site list.

Upon arrival and having cleared immigration, you will be greeted by a Learning Journeys host!

·    Proceed to the hotel to check in.
·    You will meet your Trekking/Photography Guide for a
briefing on trekking.
·    Rest of the day spent at leisure
·    Overnight is at Hyatt Regency. (Full Board)


DAY 2: Trek to Phakding

After breakfast in the hotel you will be transferred to the domestic terminal of Kathmandu Airport for the 45-minute flight to Lukla. Landing on the narrow, sloping runway high above the Dudh Koshi River in the heart of the mountains is a spectacular way to arrive. To assist with acclimatization, we allow 2 days for the walk up to Namche Bazaar.

After meeting our porters, you will have lunch at the Yeti Mountain Home lodge and then start our trek with an easy, mostly downhill leg, from Lukla to Phakding. Our focus is photography as our trek takes us through pastoral lands of the Sherpas, and we pass several small villages and individual farms.

Many Sherpas make their living exclusively from trekking. There will be tea houses and basic lodges where we will stop for a drink or a chat and we will also pass by prayer wheels of all sizes and the many stones intricately carved with prayers in the evocative Tibetan script.

Everywhere in the valley, colorful strings of prayer flags flutter from high points and bridges. After 2-3 hours of trekking you will finally meet the river and reach the first lodge at Phakding located besides the tumbling Dudh Koshi. The altitude at this first stop is actually lower than Lukla at 2610 meters.

Total walk: 3 hrs

Overnight is at Yeti Mountain Home (Full Board)
What you will learn: Sherpa Village Life


DAY 3: Phakding – Namche Bazaar

Visit the Sagarmatha National Park Visitor’s Centre and Museum with terrific views of the Everest region, and numerous educational displays about the culture, geography, geology, climatology, and wildlife within the park and the Khumbu.

Total walk: 5 - 6hrs

Overnight is at Yeti Mountain Home (Full Board)

What you will learn: Culture, Wildlife, Geology at Sagarmatha National Park


DAY 4: Acclimatization at Namche Bazaar

Namche Bazaar is tucked away between 2 ridges amongst the giant peaks of the Khumbu. An ancient marketplace where goods from as far away as Tibet are still traded, Namche today boasts an abundance of lodges, cafes, bars and souvenir shops. Close to our lodge is the internationally known Museum of Sherpa Culture, and the traditional villages of Kunde and Kumjung are a highly recommended half-day excursion.

The location of our lodge provides a superb bird’s eye view over Namche and across the Valley to the serrated ridges of the Kongde range, while the magnificent peak of Thamserku (6,623m) rises as a backdrop. Just a short walk away is a classic view of Ama Dablam, one of the most beautiful mountains in all Nepal and of Lhotse and Everest. This is an ideal place to spend the day, acclimatizing to the new altitude before heading further up-valley to Thame.

Later, walk back to Namche.
Total walk: 2 – 3 hrs

Overnight is at Yeti Mountain Home (Full Board)
What you will Learn: Photographic excursion to Khumjung and Kunde for views of Everest.


DAY 5: Namche Bazaar – Tengboche - Debuche

Breath-taking views of the Himalayas - Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku and Kwangde are some of the unforgettable highlights.

A short drop takes you down to the riverside where you will continue across the river upwards through the forest pass. Brace your legs for a continual uphill trek at this point, alternating between a gradual grade and some seriously steep ground!

Our destination, Tengboche, is known as one of the most beautiful places in the Everest region. Its views, which include Ama Dablam, are legendary.

LEARNING IMMERSION: Meet the Monks. Enjoy a visit to the Tengboche Monastery, which is one of the largest in Khumbu. Nourish your spirit with a guided walk of the monastery grounds, followed by chanting and prayer with the resident Buddhist monks. Continue walking further for another 30 minutes and arrive at Debuche for and overnight.

Total walk: 6 - 7 hrs

Overnight is at Himalayan Culture Lodge / Rivendel Hotel (Full Board)
What you will Learn :Meet the Monks


DAY 6: Debuche – Dinbouche

You will pass the valley wall and traverse the plains to Pangboche village, the biggest settlement of Sherpas in the region. Enjoy a great opportunity to immerse in a typical Sherpa village and have lunch with the locals! The intrepid can brave a brief hike to the Pangboche monastery, one of the oldest in the area.

Your afternoon trek will be a difficult one, as the landscape gives way to dry deserted mountains and you hike towards Dingboche - a gateway to Island Peak climbers. Island Peak is one of the very popular trekking peaks in Nepal. It is a valley situated below hills from all sides.

Total walk: 6 - 7 hrs

Overnight is at Summit Lodge / Bright star / Khumbu Resort (Full Board)
What you will Learn : Life as a Sherpa


DAY 7: Acclimatization at Dinbouche

Savor a full day of exploring Dingboche and the surrounding valleys of Chhukung and Imja, the latter of which links with Island Peak, the high passes of Amphu Laptsa, and Makalu Barun National Park.

Taking an optional trek to the valleys will pay off in rewarding views, but taking it easy is the most important thing today. You’ll need your rest for the penultimate day of ascent tomorrow!

Overnight is at Summit Lodge / Bright star / Khumbu Resort (Full Board)


DAY 8: Dinbouche – Lobuche

You will pass Dungla, but not before a tough, steep walk to the top of a high hill. Here are the memorial stupas dedicated to the climbers and trekkers who lost their lives to Everest over the years.

The next part of our adventure brings us over a craggy mountain terrain to Lobuche, a small settlement with amazing views of Mt. Lobuche, Mt. Pumari and the Nuptse. Prepare to snuggle up for a cold night, as you are now almost three miles above sea level and the evenings can be downright chilly!

Total walk: 6 - 7 hrs

Overnight is at Eco Lodge / Pyramid Lodge (Full Board)


DAY 9: Everest Base Camp-Ultimate Photography

The big day kicks off with an initial, relatively easy trek from Lobuche to Gorekshep. The subsequent, straight trail to Everest Base Camp is harder, involving rocky dunes and moraine, formed accumulation of unconsolidated glacial debris. On the way to our destination, you will approach the famed Khumbu Glacier and icefall, located on the slopes of Everest.

At the Base Camp, you’ll have the chance (during the spring climbing season) to meet climbers attempting to scale the mountain’s summit. Break out your camera to capture unbelievable views of breathtaking beauty. As the afternoon sun starts to wane, we’ll head back to Gorekshep for some much-needed rest and relaxation after a grueling and busy day.

Total walk: 7 - 8 hrs

Overnight is at Yeti Resort / Himalayan Lodge (Full Board)
What you will Learn : Ultimate Mountain Photography


DAY 10: Gorakshep – Kalapathar

Wake up before dawn today and trek towards Kalapathar (which means “black rock”) to witness a fiery, glorious sunrise over Mt. Everest. The day’s first light will illuminate your spectacular view of Nuptse Nup, Changtse and Lhotse. This is the most enthralling moment of your entire journey and the perfect moment to snap amazing pictures of Everest and its neighboring peaks.

Trek back to Gorekshep for breakfast and continue downwards in the direction of Pheriche, our nighttime stop. Our pace will be a lot brisker as we descend, and the walking is easier going this way.
Total walk: 5 -6 hrs

Overnight is at Edelwise Lodge. (Full Board)
What you will Learn : Ultimate Mountain Photography


DAY 11: Periche – Namche Trek

Today we make our way from Pheriche back to Tengboche and arrive Namche by late afternoon. Arrive Namche by late afternoon and off to bed before your last day on the mountain. Total walk: 7 - 8hrs

Overnight is at Yeti Mountain Home. (Full Board)


DAY 12: Namche – Phakding – Lukla

Our arrival in Lukla brings an evening in our last Tea House and, traditionally, a party with your trekking crew: you made it! Thanks to great teamwork and perseverance, you’ve accomplished a physical feat of which others only dream.

Total walk: 6 - 7hrs

Overnight is at Yeti Mountain Home. (Full Board)


DAY 13: Lukla  Kathmandu

Breakfast is at lodge.

Proceed to Lukla Airport and board your flight to Kathmandu.
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, meet your Learning Journeys guide. The rest of the day is at leisure.

Overnight is at Hyatt Regency. Full Board

What you will Learn : Ultimate Mountain Photography


DAY 14: Kathmandu -History and Culture

The Durbar Square is one of the most charming architectural showpieces of the Valley as it highlights some of the finest medieval arts of Nepal. The main items of interest in Bhaktapur Durbar Square are: the Lion Gate, the Golden Gate and the statues of kings on stone monoliths. The Golden Gate was erected by King Ranjit Malla as the entrance to the main courtyard of the Fifty-five Windowed Palace. Built during the reign of King Yakshya Malla in A.D. 1427, the Palace of Fifty-five Windows was remodeled by King Bhupatindra Malla in the 17th century. Bhaktapur's Durbar (Royal) Square was added to the list of World Heritage Sites by UNESCO in 1979.

Later, visit Patan, city of fine arts known as "The city of a thousand golden roofs." Once separated from the capital, Patan and Kathmandu are now separated only by a bridge over the Bagmati River. The city of Patan has recovered its label of origin "Lalitpur." The historic heart of the city is entangled with narrow streets and theatrical decoration: brick houses with carved wooden balconies and bronze decorations, patios and backyards that house oratories, temples, and more. The city is famous throughout the country for its tradition of blacksmithing and gold-smithing. Artisans model effigies of the divinities of the Hindu and Buddhist pantheons. The city has more than 50 main temples, some of which were destroyed or damaged by the earthquake of April 2015.

Many stupas, chaytyas and bahals (ancient Buddhist monasteries) attest to the long history of Buddhism in the city that remains today a Bastion of Newars Buddhism in the Kathmandu Valley. The four stupas, erected in the four cardinal points, originally defined the city. They were erected during the reign of Emperor Ashoka some 250 years before our era.

In the late afternoon visit Boudhanath (UNESCO World Heritage Site) is the centre of Tibetan culture in Nepal. The 36-meter-high Stupa of Boudhanath is one of the largest Stupas in South Asia. Boudhanath Stupa was renovated by Licchavi rulers in the 8th century. The mandala design in Boudhanath is a copy of the one in Gyangtse in Tibet. The stupa is said to entomb the remains of a Kasyap sage venerable both to Buddhists and Hindus.

Smaller stupas are located at the base. Gompa monasteries, curio shops, and restaurants surround Bouddhanath, which today bustles with a Tibetan population busy with carpet manufacture, trade, and prayers at the several monasteries belonging to different sects of Tibetan Buddhism.

Evening on your own to enjoy the bustling streets of vibrant Kathmandu.

Overnight is at Hyatt Regency.(Full Board)


DAY 15: Kathmandu-NGO Visit

MAITI Nepal was born out of a crusade to protect Nepali girls and women from crimes such as domestic violence, trafficking for flesh trade, child prostitution, child labor and various forms of exploitation. Visit the project, learn about their mission and how you can contribute.

SINGING BOWL LESSON
This afternoon, experience a unique singing bowl lesson

Singing bowls are a standing bell that produce sound which can be used for spiritual purposes, meditation, relaxation, religious practice and personal wellbeing.

What You Will Learn:
NGO Visit-Mati Nepal- A CNN Hero of the Year
Singing Bowl Lesson
Overnight is at Hyatt Regency.(Full Board)


DAY 16: See You Again!

Need to head back? We look forward to welcoming you back to Nepal on another Learning Journeys immersion, perhaps to deeply explore rural villages, assist on local project initiatives or enjoy a wildlife immersion.




Program Registration Fees

All itinerary prices are listed in USD

Per person for Standard $4,500.00

Per person for Standard Single $890.00


Program Departure Dates:

Services Included

·    4 Nights’ accommodation at Hyatt Regency, Kathmandu on full board basis.
·    All meals (start from dinner on Day 01 and ends on Breakfast on Day 15) and includes water.
·    All transfers, sightseeing & excursions by air-conditioned vehicle
·    11 nights EBC trek using Luxury / Semi-Luxury Lodges on Full board basis including water accompanied by an English speaking trekking guide.
·    All learning experiences as listed
·    Sherpa/porter-1 porter for 02 pax maximum.
·    Insurance for Trekking Guide and Porters.
·    Domestic Airfare (Kathmandu to Lukla)
·    Domestic Airfare (Gorkshep - Kathmandu in Private Helicopter)
·    Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park Fee & TIMS card (Trekkers Information Management System). TIMS is the basic trekking permit for all treks in Nepal.
·    All the applicable entrance & national park fees.
·    Meeting and assistance on arrival / departure by our representative at airports.
·    All entrances to monuments as mentioned in the program (for 01 visit only).
·    Local English speaking guide for sightseeing in Kathmandu only.
·    Government Service Tax.
o    Additional:
▪    Sleeping bag with liner
▪    Hot water bag
▪    Daily Shower
▪    Daily extra food (cookies, cashew nuts, dry fruits, canned foods, energy bars, cheese etc.) – clients to notify in advance on any allergy or any other issues related to food.
9/10/2023 8:00:00 AM

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Program Type

Adventure Learning
Ancient Traditions
Arts-Crafts-Textile
Birding and Wildlife
Bucket List Learning
Dance
Fashion
Gastronomy
Genealogy
Language
Music
Photography
Theater Arts
Unplugged Learning
Wellness and Spirituality
Wine and Spirits
Woman's Focused
Writing and Literature

Learning Level

Explore an Interest
Pursue a Passion
Change My Life!

Activity Level

Difficult


What You Will Learn/Do

Develop skills in mountain ,wildlife and portrait photography

Immerse in spirituality and history of Nepal with local experts

Learn about Nepal’s mountainous countryside with natural exports

Workshop on History of Hinduism, Buddhism and Tibetan Buddhism

Experience an immersion into the Sherpa culture and lifestyle

NGO Visit: Morning visit to Mati Nepal- A CNN Hero of the Year

Singing Bowl Lesson


Why This Program Is Unique

This private program is ideal for learners who have an interest in photography as well as outdoor, culture, history and spiritual enthusiasts!

There is much Nepal has to offer in its ways of educating tourists who find themselves immersed in this unique and authentic culture.

On this journey, you will get the once in a lifetime chance to take in breathtaking views of the Himalayas by private chartered helicopter! All meals and learning experiences are included.

Between the lively, bustling streets of Kathmandu, and the rich mountainside regions, home to Mt. Everest, this journey is one for the sojourn of the soul.

Read about the life and history of Nepalese Sherpas written by our company’s CEO https://www.travelresearchonline.com/blog/index.php/2020/01/the-sherpas-of-everest-the-economy-of-the-worlds-tallest-peak/


How This Program Benefits The Local Community

Nepal as a country is hugely depended on tourism, with 25% of the GDP coming from tourism & related activities.

While we promote tourism, we are generating employment for the society. When we participate in the workshops, our participants gain first-hand experience of the way of life & religion of the people, as well as knowledge of the social activities engaged by locals to help uplift their society.

The activities incorporated in the program are specifically chosen to help bring positive changes to the society. Learning Journeys is committed to protecting the Sherpa community and to responsible tourism throughout the world.


Program Itinerary

Start/Finish City:

Open All Days


DAY 1: Welcome to Kathmandu!

Welcome to Nepal! ! The rich cultural and artistic heritage of Nepal is synthesized in Kathmandu, the capital, which lies in a valley, south of the Great Himalayas, which rise to an altitude of 5,000 feet. Successive dynasties have left their marks upon the stupendous palaces, temples, sculptures and carvings found throughout the valley. Kathmandu is also the largest city of Nepal and its festivals exceed the number of days in a year. The valley has seven heritage sites that have been enlisted in cultural World Heritage Site list. Upon arrival and having cleared immigration, you will be greeted by a Learning Journeys host! · Proceed to the hotel to check in. · You will meet your Trekking/Photography Guide for a briefing on trekking. · Rest of the day spent at leisure · Overnight is at Hyatt Regency. (Full Board)

DAY 2: Trek to Phakding

Kathmandu ✈ Lukla (2,840 M) Fly; Trek to Phakding (2,610 M) After breakfast in the hotel you will be transferred to the domestic terminal of Kathmandu Airport for the 45-minute flight to Lukla. Landing on the narrow, sloping runway high above the Dudh Koshi River in the heart of the mountains is a spectacular way to arrive. To assist with acclimatization, we allow 2 days for the walk up to Namche Bazaar. After meeting our porters, you will have lunch at the Yeti Mountain Home lodge and then start our trek with an easy, mostly downhill leg, from Lukla to Phakding. Our focus is photography as our trek takes us through pastoral lands of the Sherpas, and we pass several small villages and individual farms. Many Sherpas make their living exclusively from trekking. There will be tea houses and basic lodges where we will stop for a drink or a chat and we will also pass by prayer wheels of all sizes and the many stones intricately carved with prayers in the evocative Tibetan script. Everywhere in the valley, colorful strings of prayer flags flutter from high points and bridges. After 2-3 hours of trekking you will finally meet the river and reach the first lodge at Phakding located besides the tumbling Dudh Koshi. The altitude at this first stop is actually lower than Lukla at 2610 meters. Total walk: 3 hrs Overnight is at Yeti Mountain Home (Full Board) What you will learn: Sherpa Village Life

DAY 3: Phakding – Namche Bazaar

Today will be a day of rest in Namche Bazaar for acclimatization and independent photography experiences. Visit the Sagarmatha National Park Visitor’s Centre and Museum with terrific views of the Everest region, and numerous educational displays about the culture, geography, geology, climatology, and wildlife within the park and the Khumbu. Total walk: 5 - 6hrs Overnight is at Yeti Mountain Home (Full Board) What you will learn: Culture, Wildlife, Geology at Sagarmatha National Park

DAY 4: Acclimatization at Namche Bazaar

This morning, you have the option to rest at the lodge, or to enjoy a photographic excursion to Khumjung and Kunde for views of Everest. Namche Bazaar is tucked away between 2 ridges amongst the giant peaks of the Khumbu. An ancient marketplace where goods from as far away as Tibet are still traded, Namche today boasts an abundance of lodges, cafes, bars and souvenir shops. Close to our lodge is the internationally known Museum of Sherpa Culture, and the traditional villages of Kunde and Kumjung are a highly recommended half-day excursion. The location of our lodge provides a superb bird’s eye view over Namche and across the Valley to the serrated ridges of the Kongde range, while the magnificent peak of Thamserku (6,623m) rises as a backdrop. Just a short walk away is a classic view of Ama Dablam, one of the most beautiful mountains in all Nepal and of Lhotse and Everest. This is an ideal place to spend the day, acclimatizing to the new altitude before heading further up-valley to Thame. Later, walk back to Namche. Total walk: 2 – 3 hrs Overnight is at Yeti Mountain Home (Full Board) What you will Learn: Photographic excursion to Khumjung and Kunde for views of Everest.

DAY 5: Namche Bazaar – Tengboche - Debuche

After a hearty breakfast at Namche Bazaar, set out for another day of photography and trekking towards Everest Base Camp! Breath-taking views of the Himalayas - Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku and Kwangde are some of the unforgettable highlights. A short drop takes you down to the riverside where you will continue across the river upwards through the forest pass. Brace your legs for a continual uphill trek at this point, alternating between a gradual grade and some seriously steep ground! Our destination, Tengboche, is known as one of the most beautiful places in the Everest region. Its views, which include Ama Dablam, are legendary. LEARNING IMMERSION: Meet the Monks. Enjoy a visit to the Tengboche Monastery, which is one of the largest in Khumbu. Nourish your spirit with a guided walk of the monastery grounds, followed by chanting and prayer with the resident Buddhist monks. Continue walking further for another 30 minutes and arrive at Debuche for and overnight. Total walk: 6 - 7 hrs Overnight is at Himalayan Culture Lodge / Rivendel Hotel (Full Board) What you will Learn :Meet the Monks

DAY 6: Debuche – Dinbouche

Our trek today kicks off with a unique photographic opportunity, a walk through the rhododendron forest to Deboche, followed by a bridge over the raging Imja Khol River. You will pass the valley wall and traverse the plains to Pangboche village, the biggest settlement of Sherpas in the region. Enjoy a great opportunity to immerse in a typical Sherpa village and have lunch with the locals! The intrepid can brave a brief hike to the Pangboche monastery, one of the oldest in the area. Your afternoon trek will be a difficult one, as the landscape gives way to dry deserted mountains and you hike towards Dingboche - a gateway to Island Peak climbers. Island Peak is one of the very popular trekking peaks in Nepal. It is a valley situated below hills from all sides. Total walk: 6 - 7 hrs Overnight is at Summit Lodge / Bright star / Khumbu Resort (Full Board) What you will Learn : Life as a Sherpa

DAY 7: Acclimatization at Dinbouche

This is your chance to rest up before the last leg of our adventure! Savor a full day of exploring Dingboche and the surrounding valleys of Chhukung and Imja, the latter of which links with Island Peak, the high passes of Amphu Laptsa, and Makalu Barun National Park. Taking an optional trek to the valleys will pay off in rewarding views, but taking it easy is the most important thing today. You’ll need your rest for the penultimate day of ascent tomorrow! Overnight is at Summit Lodge / Bright star / Khumbu Resort (Full Board)

DAY 8: Dinbouche – Lobuche

From here onwards, the photography trek will move more gradually and be more challenging, due to the higher altitude. You will pass Dungla, but not before a tough, steep walk to the top of a high hill. Here are the memorial stupas dedicated to the climbers and trekkers who lost their lives to Everest over the years. The next part of our adventure brings us over a craggy mountain terrain to Lobuche, a small settlement with amazing views of Mt. Lobuche, Mt. Pumari and the Nuptse. Prepare to snuggle up for a cold night, as you are now almost three miles above sea level and the evenings can be downright chilly! Total walk: 6 - 7 hrs Overnight is at Eco Lodge / Pyramid Lodge (Full Board)

DAY 9: Everest Base Camp-Ultimate Photography

This is it! The ultimate photographic expedition! The big day kicks off with an initial, relatively easy trek from Lobuche to Gorekshep. The subsequent, straight trail to Everest Base Camp is harder, involving rocky dunes and moraine, formed accumulation of unconsolidated glacial debris. On the way to our destination, you will approach the famed Khumbu Glacier and icefall, located on the slopes of Everest. At the Base Camp, you’ll have the chance (during the spring climbing season) to meet climbers attempting to scale the mountain’s summit. Break out your camera to capture unbelievable views of breathtaking beauty. As the afternoon sun starts to wane, we’ll head back to Gorekshep for some much-needed rest and relaxation after a grueling and busy day. Total walk: 7 - 8 hrs Overnight is at Yeti Resort / Himalayan Lodge (Full Board) What you will Learn : Ultimate Mountain Photography

DAY 10: Gorakshep – Kalapathar

Gorakshep – Kalapathar – (5.545M) – Gorak Shep IMMERSION: SUNRISE PHOTOGRAPHY AT MT. EVEREST Wake up before dawn today and trek towards Kalapathar (which means “black rock”) to witness a fiery, glorious sunrise over Mt. Everest. The day’s first light will illuminate your spectacular view of Nuptse Nup, Changtse and Lhotse. This is the most enthralling moment of your entire journey and the perfect moment to snap amazing pictures of Everest and its neighboring peaks. Trek back to Gorekshep for breakfast and continue downwards in the direction of Pheriche, our nighttime stop. Our pace will be a lot brisker as we descend, and the walking is easier going this way. Total walk: 5 -6 hrs Overnight is at Edelwise Lodge. (Full Board) What you will Learn : Ultimate Mountain Photography

DAY 11: Periche – Namche Trek

Today we make our way from Pheriche! Today we make our way from Pheriche back to Tengboche and arrive Namche by late afternoon. Arrive Namche by late afternoon and off to bed before your last day on the mountain. Total walk: 7 - 8hrs Overnight is at Yeti Mountain Home. (Full Board)

DAY 12: Namche – Phakding – Lukla

After breakfast, we embark on a photography themed trek toward the Hillary Suspension Bridge and then pass through several local villages. Our arrival in Lukla brings an evening in our last Tea House and, traditionally, a party with your trekking crew: you made it! Thanks to great teamwork and perseverance, you’ve accomplished a physical feat of which others only dream. Total walk: 6 - 7hrs Overnight is at Yeti Mountain Home. (Full Board)

DAY 13: Lukla  Kathmandu

Proceed to Lukla Airport and board your flight to Kathmandu. Breakfast is at lodge. Proceed to Lukla Airport and board your flight to Kathmandu. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, meet your Learning Journeys guide. The rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight is at Hyatt Regency. Full Board What you will Learn : Ultimate Mountain Photography

DAY 14: Kathmandu -History and Culture

This morning you will visit Bhaktapur, another city founded in the 9th century. The Durbar Square is one of the most charming architectural showpieces of the Valley as it highlights some of the finest medieval arts of Nepal. The main items of interest in Bhaktapur Durbar Square are: the Lion Gate, the Golden Gate and the statues of kings on stone monoliths. The Golden Gate was erected by King Ranjit Malla as the entrance to the main courtyard of the Fifty-five Windowed Palace. Built during the reign of King Yakshya Malla in A.D. 1427, the Palace of Fifty-five Windows was remodeled by King Bhupatindra Malla in the 17th century. Bhaktapur's Durbar (Royal) Square was added to the list of World Heritage Sites by UNESCO in 1979. Later, visit Patan, city of fine arts known as "The city of a thousand golden roofs." Once separated from the capital, Patan and Kathmandu are now separated only by a bridge over the Bagmati River. The city of Patan has recovered its label of origin "Lalitpur." The historic heart of the city is entangled with narrow streets and theatrical decoration: brick houses with carved wooden balconies and bronze decorations, patios and backyards that house oratories, temples, and more. The city is famous throughout the country for its tradition of blacksmithing and gold-smithing. Artisans model effigies of the divinities of the Hindu and Buddhist pantheons. The city has more than 50 main temples, some of which were destroyed or damaged by the earthquake of April 2015. Many stupas, chaytyas and bahals (ancient Buddhist monasteries) attest to the long history of Buddhism in the city that remains today a Bastion of Newars Buddhism in the Kathmandu Valley. The four stupas, erected in the four cardinal points, originally defined the city. They were erected during the reign of Emperor Ashoka some 250 years before our era. In the late afternoon visit Boudhanath (UNESCO World Heritage Site) is the centre of Tibetan culture in Nepal. The 36-meter-high Stupa of Boudhanath is one of the largest Stupas in South Asia. Boudhanath Stupa was renovated by Licchavi rulers in the 8th century. The mandala design in Boudhanath is a copy of the one in Gyangtse in Tibet. The stupa is said to entomb the remains of a Kasyap sage venerable both to Buddhists and Hindus. Smaller stupas are located at the base. Gompa monasteries, curio shops, and restaurants surround Bouddhanath, which today bustles with a Tibetan population busy with carpet manufacture, trade, and prayers at the several monasteries belonging to different sects of Tibetan Buddhism. Evening on your own to enjoy the bustling streets of vibrant Kathmandu. Overnight is at Hyatt Regency.(Full Board)

DAY 15: Kathmandu-NGO Visit

NGO Visit: Morning visit to Mati Nepal- A CNN Hero of the Year MAITI Nepal was born out of a crusade to protect Nepali girls and women from crimes such as domestic violence, trafficking for flesh trade, child prostitution, child labor and various forms of exploitation. Visit the project, learn about their mission and how you can contribute. SINGING BOWL LESSON This afternoon, experience a unique singing bowl lesson Singing bowls are a standing bell that produce sound which can be used for spiritual purposes, meditation, relaxation, religious practice and personal wellbeing. What You Will Learn: NGO Visit-Mati Nepal- A CNN Hero of the Year Singing Bowl Lesson Overnight is at Hyatt Regency.(Full Board)

DAY 16: See You Again!

Don’t leave yet!! Extend your journey on one of our numerous programs in India or Bhutan. Need to head back? We look forward to welcoming you back to Nepal on another Learning Journeys immersion, perhaps to deeply explore rural villages, assist on local project initiatives or enjoy a wildlife immersion.


Program Registration Fees

2023 Departures & Fees 1 Departures

Date Double Occupancy Single Supplement Additional
September 10, 2023
Reserve Online
$5,850.00
Per Person
$1,157.00
Per Person
Dates & Fees: View 2023
Final pricing will be displayed on the summary page.

Services Included

· 4 Nights’ accommodation at Hyatt Regency, Kathmandu on full board basis. · All meals (start from dinner on Day 01 and ends on Breakfast on Day 15) and includes water. · All transfers, sightseeing & excursions by air-conditioned vehicle · 11 nights EBC trek using Luxury / Semi-Luxury Lodges on Full board basis including water accompanied by an English speaking trekking guide. · All learning experiences as listed · Sherpa/porter-1 porter for 02 pax maximum. · Insurance for Trekking Guide and Porters. · Domestic Airfare (Kathmandu to Lukla) · Domestic Airfare (Gorkshep - Kathmandu in Private Helicopter) · Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park Fee & TIMS card (Trekkers Information Management System). TIMS is the basic trekking permit for all treks in Nepal. · All the applicable entrance & national park fees. · Meeting and assistance on arrival / departure by our representative at airports. · All entrances to monuments as mentioned in the program (for 01 visit only). · Local English speaking guide for sightseeing in Kathmandu only. · Government Service Tax. o Additional: ▪ Sleeping bag with liner ▪ Hot water bag ▪ Daily Shower ▪ Daily extra food (cookies, cashew nuts, dry fruits, canned foods, energy bars, cheese etc.) – clients to notify in advance on any allergy or any other issues related to food.

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