Everest Birdwatching & Everest Base Camp Trip - Xtreme Climbers Treks and Expedition

Close Filter

Overview

Trip Facts

Trip Highlights

Itinerary

Cost Includes

Cost Excludes

Trip Overview

Country Nepal

Duration 14 Days

Difficulty Moderate

Best Season Spring / Autumn

Accommodation Hotel + Lodge

The Everest Bird-Watching Tour offers an unparalleled combination of trekking and bird-watching, providing a rare opportunity to explore Nepal’s diverse avian life while immersing yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of the Khumbu region. Starting with a scenic flight to Lukla, the journey takes you through the Khumbu Valley, where you’ll explore diverse ecosystems home to spe...

Trip Facts

Location / Region: Khumbu Valley, Nepal

Key Areas: Lukla, Namche Bazaar, Thame, Tengboche, Dingboche, Pangboche, Pheriche, Lobuche, Everest Base Camp, Gorakshep, Gokyo Valley.

Notable Bird Species: Himalayan Monal, Blood Pheasant, Grandala, Himalayan Vulture, Lammergeier, Tibetan Blackbird, Red-billed Chough, Yellow-billed Chough, Spot-winged Grosbeak, Streaked Rosefinch, Ibisbill, Himalayan Snowcock, White-winged Redstart, Rufous-breasted Accentor, Alpine Chough.

Trek Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous, involving high-altitude trekking.

Key Highlights:

Scenic Flight: Breathtaking views during the flight to Lukla.
Diverse Habitats: Exploration of various ecosystems from dense forests to alpine meadows.
Bird-Watching Hotspots: Several key locations throughout the trek offer excellent bird-watching opportunities.
Everest Base Camp: Prime location for spotting unique high-altitude bird species.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides with expertise in local birdlife and trekking routes.

Eco-Friendly Practices:

Sustainability: Emphasis on responsible tourism to minimize environmental impact.
Conservation: Support for local conservation efforts and adherence to eco-friendly practices.
Accommodation and Meals: Guesthouses and lodges along the trekking route / Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

Essential Gear:

Binoculars/Scope: For bird spotting.
Camera: With a telephoto lens for photography.
Appropriate Clothing: Warm and layered clothing suitable for high altitudes.
Typical Duration: 14 (KTM-KTM) days
Best Time to Visit: Spring (March to May): Ideal for observing migratory birds and enjoying blooming flora. Autumn (September to November): Offers pleasant weather and a variety of bird species.

Trip Highlights

A Scenic Start to Your Adventure: Your bird-watching experience begins with a breathtaking flight into Lukla, the gateway to the Khumbu region. As you soar over the Himalayas, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, pristine rivers, and dense forests. Upon landing in Lukla, your trek begins, taking you deeper into the Khumbu Valley, where the real adventure unfolds.
Exploring the Rich Ecosystems of the Khumbu Region: The Khumbu region is a haven for birdlife, offering diverse ecosystems that support a wide variety of Himalayan birds. As you trek towards Everest Base Camp, you’ll have ample opportunities to spot species such as the Himalayan Monal, Blood Pheasant, Grandala, Himalayan Vulture, Lammergeier, Tibetan Blackbird, and Red-billed Chough. With the guidance of expert naturalists, you’ll learn to identify these magnificent birds by their distinctive calls and vibrant plumage.
Bird-Watching Hotspots in the Himalayas: Your journey will take you through several key bird-watching hotspots, including Namche Bazaar, Thame, Tengboche, Dingboche, Pangboche, Pheriche, Lobuche, and higher elevations like Everest Base Camp, Gorakshep, and the Gokyo Valley. Each of these locations provides a unique opportunity to observe elusive species such as the Snow Partridge, Yellow-billed Chough, and Snow Pigeon. The crisp mountain air and breathtaking landscapes make these bird-watching sessions truly magical.
Reaching the Iconic Everest Base Camp: While reaching Everest Base Camp is a dream for many trekkers, it’s also a prime location for bird-watching. Surrounded by towering peaks, you may encounter species like White-winged red stars, Rufous-breasted Accentors, and Alpine Choughs. As you take in the panoramic views of Mount Everest and its neighboring giants, keep an eye on the sky for soaring Lammergeiers and Himalayan Griffons.
Expert Guidance for an Enriching Experience: The success of your bird-watching tour is ensured by the expertise of our experienced guides. With an intimate understanding of the region’s birdlife, behavior, and habitat, our guides will help you spot rare and elusive species, while also providing fascinating insights into the culture and traditions of the local communities.
Commitment to Eco-Friendly Practices: Our Everest Bird-Watching Tour is grounded in responsible tourism. We follow strict eco-friendly practices to minimize our impact on the fragile Himalayan ecosystem. Participants are encouraged to respect the environment, carry out all waste, and support local conservation efforts, ensuring that the beauty of the Himalayas is preserved for future generations.

Itinerary

Day 01 - Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) Kathmandu: Arrival in Kathmandu [1300 m/4264 ft] Arrive at any time, Xtreme Climbers vehicle and represent we'll pick you up from Tribhuvan International Airport and take you to the hotel. Your included activities consist of refreshments, an introduction to your guide, as well as an introduction on The Trek. Meal includes: Breakfast

Day 02: Fly Kathmandu to Lukla via Ramechhap and Trek to Phakding (2652m/8698ft) 3 hrs walking. A short and scenic morning flight takes you to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. From Lukla, begin your trek to Phakding, a charming village nestled along the Dudh Koshi River. The trail offers glimpses of various bird species, including the Plumbeous Water Redstart, Rufous Sibia, and White Wagtail. The soothing sound of the river and the towering rhododendron forests create a perfect atmosphere for birdwatching.

Day 03: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3440m/11283 ft) 6 hours walking: The trail to Namche Bazaar is a challenging but rewarding ascent through pine forests, suspension bridges, and Sherpa villages. Along the way, keep your binoculars ready to spot Himalayan species like the Yellow-billed Blue Magpie, Himalayan Monal, Spotted Nutcracker, and the Red-billed Chough. Arriving in Namche Bazaar, the largest town in the Khumbu region, you'll be treated to panoramic views of Everest and the surrounding peaks.

Day 04: Namche Acclimatization & Rest Day (3440m/11283 ft), 3 hours of acclimatization Hike: Take a day to acclimatize to the altitude in Namche Bazaar. Explore the town's vibrant markets, visit the Everest View Hotel for stunning vistas, and engage in birdwatching in the nearby forests. You might catch a glimpse of the Himalayan Monal, Blood Pheasant, Black-faced Laughingthrush, and various species of tits and warblers. The evening is perfect for mingling with fellow trekkers and enjoying the local cuisine.

Day 05: Trek to Tengboche or Deboche (3870m/12693ft), 5-hour walk: As you ascend further, the landscape changes, and you'll find yourself surrounded by coniferous forests. Tengboche, with its famous monastery, offers a serene setting for birdwatching. Keep an eye out for the Fire-tailed Sunbird, the Himalayan White-browed Rosefinch, and the Snow Pigeon. The backdrop of Ama Dablam and Everest makes this place a photographer's paradise.

Day 06: Trek to Dingboche (4410m/14465ft), 5 hours of walking: Continuing your trek, you'll reach Dingboche, a picturesque village nestled in a high-altitude desert landscape. The terrain is home to several ground-dwelling birds, like the Tibetan Snowcock and the Himalayan Snowfinch. As you ascend, the breathtaking scenery and close encounters with Himalayan wildlife make this trek an unforgettable experience.

Day 07: Dingboche- Rest Day, (4410m/14465ft) 2/3 hours of acclimatization Hike: To acclimatize further, take a short hike to Nangkartshang Peak, which offers panoramic views of the entire Everest region. This area is also an excellent place for spotting the Himalayan Accentor and the White-winged Grosbeak. In the afternoon, relax in Dingboche, savoring the tranquillity of the Himalayan landscape.

Day 08: Trek to Lobuche (4910m/16105ft) 5 to 6 hours of walking: The trek to Lobuche is characterized by rocky terrain and stunning vistas. The higher altitude brings the opportunity to observe the Snow Partridge and the Alpine Accentor. Arriving in Lobuche, you'll be awed by the proximity of the towering Everest and Nuptse peaks.

Day 09: Trek to Gorak Shep (5160m/16925ft) and then to Everest Base Camp (5364m) and back to Gorak Shep 5/6 hours: Today's highlight is the trek to Everest Base Camp. Although not primarily a birdwatching day, the thrill of reaching the base camp of the world's highest peak is unmatched. Keep an eye out for the Himalayan Griffon Vulture, Lammergeier, soaring above. After visiting the base camp, return to Gorak Shep for a well-deserved rest.

Day 10: Trek to Kala Pattar (5550m) and Trek back to Periche 4240m (4910m/16105ft) 6 hours of Walking: Early in the morning, hike to Kala Patthar, a viewpoint known for its stunning sunrise views of Everest. On this day, you can encounter the Snow Finch and the Snow Pigeon. After capturing the sunrise over the Himalayas, descend to Pheriche for an overnight stay.

Day 11: Pheriche to Phortse (3,842m), 6 hrs: This day involves a 6-7 hour descent to 3,884 meters. The journey begins with a mix of downhill and uphill trekking on the left side of Phortse, passing through several small villages. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy birdwatching in the lush forests and meadows at lower altitudes, where you might spot species like the Chestnut-crowned Laughingthrush and Rufous-vented Tit. The route includes a challenging ascent to a slight junction at the top, offering rewarding views. Starting from Pheriche, the trek crosses the Khumbu Khola before leading up to Phortse, where you'll reach a high ridge above the Dudh Koshi River. After navigating several turns, you'll arrive at Phortse village for an overnight stay. Throughout the trek, take in the final views of Everest and its surrounding peaks. Overnight at Phortse Guest House. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 12: Phortse to Monjo (2835m) 5 hrs: Trek from Phortse to Monjo (2835m) takes about six hours. This day the trail gradually descends and ascends as well as you cross the Dudh Koshi River over suspension bridges throughout the day. Stay overnight at Monjo. Meals include:Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner.

Day 13: Monjo to Lukla (2840m). 4 hrs: From Monjo making several ascents and descents and enjoying the surrounding views of green hills and ringing sounds of Yaks and Mules Bell, we will reach Lukla. overnight at the Lukla guest house. Meals include:Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner.

Day 14: Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu via Ramechhap and transfer to the Hotel: Our flight to Kathmandu is in the morning. After breakfast, we will check in to Lukla airport and board the plane to Kathmandu. Flight is again dependent on weather conditions so delay could happen! On arrival in Kathmandu, we will transfer you to your hotel. In the evening, we will meet you again, take your feedback on the trek with our crew, and host a farewell dinner at one of the finest restaurants in town. O/N at Kathmandu. Meal includes:Breakfast/Dinner.

Day 15: Departure day from Kathmandu (12,64m): Today your trip comes to an end. After breakfast at your hotel, you now have free time. If it is the day that you fly back home/ onward to your travel destination, we will transfer you to the airport on time. Or you could extend your stay or you may get our assistance for additional activities that you are interested in. Meal includes:Breakfast

Cost includes

Transportation: Airport pickup and drop in a private vehicle as per group size.
Member’s Accommodation in Kathmandu: 2 Night 3* Hotel (Twin Shearing) with BB per schedule program and itinerary
Domestic Flight or Overland tourist or reserved private Transport:

Flight Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu for both members and supporting staff as per program and scheduled itinerary.

Trekking Permit: All necessary Government paperwork and Lukla VDC Entrance and Sagarmatha National Park Permit
Member's Accommodation During Trip: Best available Local Teahouse lodge accommodation / 3 times meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) with fresh fruits as long as available during the entire trek as per the scheduled program and itinerary
Trekking Guide, Assistant Guide: Highly experienced, English-speaking, and government-licensed trekking with a nature guide and assistant guide (If the number of participants is above 8. pax) and their daily wages.
Guide & Porters Wages, Emergency Heli, and Medical Insurance: Porter service (2. members 1 porter max 30.kg per person) Staff wages, medical and emergency Heli rescue insurance, equipment, food and accommodation.
Communication: Radio Walkie-Talkie and Thuraya SAT Phone will be carried by a Guide for emergency use (for members USD 5 per minute)
Xtreme Climbers Duffel Bags, Sun Hat: TWO Members use one Xtreme Climbers Duffel Bags to put your Trekking/Expedition gears and stuff during Trekking / Expedition. Sun Hat will be provided as souvenirs.
Medical Kit Bag: Medical kit (carried by trekking Guide or supporting staff for basic use only)
Government VAT / TAX: Local government VAT / Tax
Farewell Dinner: Compliment Farewell Dinner hosted by XTREME CLIMBER’S

Cost Excludes

Airfare: International flight airfare (from and to Kathmandu).
Nepal entry Visa fee: Nepal Visa fee USD 60 per person for 30 days to be applied for 60 days USD 120).
Sightseeing: Sightseeing around historical monuments and entrance fees.
Extra night in Kathmandu and Lunch & Dinner: Extra night accommodation and Lunch & dinner during the stay in Kathmandu In case of early arrival or late departure, early return from Trekking / Expedition / Tour (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary.
Insurance: Travel and high altitude insurance, accident, medical & emergency evacuation.
Rescue Evacuation: Medical Insurance and emergency rescue evacuation costs if required. (Rescue, Repatriation, Medication, Medical Tests, and Hospitalization costs.)
Personal Trekking / Climbing equipment and Personal Expenses: Personal Trekking and Climbing Gear, Internet, battery recharge, Hot shower, Laundry, any Alcoholic beverages & soft drinks (during the trek and in Kathmandu), and Personal Medical Kit bags.
Filming: Special Filming, Camera, and Drone permit fee.
Horse renting and additional porters: Horse renting and additional porters during the trek.
Tips: Calculate some tips for staff, Drivers, and Porters.
Extra: Any other services or activities, which are not mentioned in the itinerary or any other item not listed in the “Cost Includes” section. Or any costs that arise due to a change of the itinerary, because of landslides, domestic flight delays, political disturbance, strikes, etc.