The Himalayas beckon. Their snow-capped peaks pierce the sky, promising adventure and breathtaking vistas. But what if you could experience this legendary landscape not just on foot, but from the back of a trusty steed? Our Everest Base Camp Horse Riding Trek offers a unique and unforgettable way to explore the Khumbu Valley, combining the thrill of horseback riding with the awe-inspiring beauty of the world's highest mountains.
The Khumbu Valley has been a passage for trade and exploration for centuries. Traditionally, these paths were traversed by yak caravans, carrying goods between the lowlands and the high Himalayas. Our trek revives this ancient tradition, offering you the chance to experience the valley in a way that's both adventurous and respectful of its history.
Unlike some horse riding adventures that use generic breeds, we partner with local Sherpa communities to provide sure-footed Tibetan ponies. These hardy and well-adapted horses have been traversing these trails for generations. They are accustomed to the high altitude and challenging terrain, ensuring a comfortable and safe ride for riders of all experience levels.
The beauty of this trek lies not just in the horseback riding experience. As you traverse the Khumbu Valley, you'll be surrounded by some of the most spectacular mountain scenery on Earth. Imagine yourself cantering past colorful prayer flags that flutter in the crisp mountain air, with the snow-capped peaks of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam towering majestically in the distance. The trail winds through charming Sherpa villages, each with its own unique character and cultural heritage. Take a moment to explore these villages, interact with the locals, and get a glimpse into the rich tapestry of life in the Himalayas.
Whether you're a seasoned equestrian with years of experience under your belt, or a complete beginner who's always dreamed of exploring the mountains on horseback, our Everest Base Camp Horse Riding Trek is designed to cater to your needs. Our experienced and multilingual guides will ensure your safety and comfort throughout the journey. They will assess your riding skills and tailor the pace accordingly, providing expert instruction and support along the way. The itinerary is designed for gradual acclimatization to the altitude, with plenty of rest days built in to allow you to soak in the scenery and adjust to the thin mountain air.
Our trek goes beyond the simple act of riding a horse. It's a full cultural immersion experience. You'll have the opportunity to explore the bustling Namche Bazaar, a Sherpa trading hub nestled amidst the mountains. Here, you can wander through the labyrinthine alleys, browse through shops selling traditional handicrafts and souvenirs, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of this high-altitude marketplace. Hike to the iconic Tengboche Monastery, perched on a scenic hilltop overlooking the valley. Witness the serene beauty of this Buddhist sanctuary and experience breathtaking sunrises over the Everest massif, painting the mountains in a kaleidoscope of colors.
Our local guides, many of whom are themselves Sherpa, will share their knowledge of the Khumbu Valley's unique ecosystem and the Sherpa way of life. They will explain the challenges and adaptations of living in such a high-altitude environment, and the deep connection the Sherpa people have with the mountains. You'll learn about their rich cultural heritage, their traditions, and their role as guardians of the Himalayas.
During your trek, you'll stay in comfortable teahouses along the route. These traditional lodges, run by Sherpa families, offer a warm and welcoming atmosphere. You'll be greeted with steaming cups of yak butter tea, a local delicacy that helps ward off the cold. Savor traditional Nepali cuisine, prepared with fresh, local ingredients, and enjoy the warmth of Sherpa hospitality. Sharing meals and conversation with the lodge owners and other trekkers is a fantastic way to connect with the local culture and create lasting memories.
The culmination of your trek is a visit to Everest Base Camp (EBC), the starting point for expeditions to the world's tallest peak. Standing amidst the towering giants of the Himalayas, surrounded by the Khumbu Icefall and the colossal south face of Everest, is an experience that will leave you breathless. Imagine the sense of accomplishment as you imagine the sense of accomplishment as you stand at the foot of Everest, a place that has captured the imagination of explorers and adventurers for centuries. Take a moment to capture this awe-inspiring experience with photographs before returning to Gorakshep for a well-deserved rest.
While horseback riding alleviates some of the physical exertion compared to trekking, the Everest Base Camp Horse Riding Trek still requires a moderate level of fitness. You'll be spending several hours in the saddle each day, navigating uneven terrain and high altitudes. Regular exercise, particularly activities that strengthen your core and legs, will be beneficial in preparing for the trek.
The weather in the Khumbu Valley is unpredictable, and conditions can change rapidly. The best time to embark on this adventure is generally considered to be during the spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) seasons. These months offer clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and less chance of rain or snow that could make the trails treacherous. However, even during these seasons, be prepared for sudden changes in weather. It's essential to pack layers of clothing that you can easily adjust to maintain comfort in varying temperatures.
The safety of our guests is our top priority. We provide comprehensive pre-departure information and briefings to ensure you're well-prepared for the trek. Our experienced guides are trained in first-aid and wilderness medicine, and will be with you every step of the way to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
The Everest Base Camp Horse Riding Trek is more than just a trek; it's an adventure that will stay with you for a lifetime. It's a chance to experience the majesty of the Himalayas in a unique and unforgettable way, to connect with the Sherpa people and their culture, and to push your personal boundaries. So, saddle up, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and prepare to be awestruck by the beauty of Everest.
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 2: Kathmandu to Lukla Flight - Descent to Phakding :
Day 3: Crossing the Dudh Koshi River - Arrival in Namche Bazaar:
Day 4: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar – Hike to Everest View Hotel:
Day 5: Namche Bazaar to Tengboche Monastery:
Day 6: Tengboche Monastery to Dingboche:
Day 7: Acclimatization Day in Dingboche and Side Trip:
Day 8: Dingboche to Lobuche:
Day 9: Lobuche – Gorakshep on Horse Ride and Trek Everest Base Camp and Back to Gorak Shep:
Day 10: Gorakshep – Kala Patthar – Pheriche:
Day 11: Pheriche to Namche:
Day 12: Descent to Lukla - Flight to Kathmandu (if flight delays, need to stay at Lukla):
riding
Day 13: Departure Day
Your Everest Base Camp Horse Riding adventure begins upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, where you’ll be greeted by our team and transferred to your hotel. The vibrant city offers a mix of culture, history, and charm, with places like Thamel to explore in your free time. In the evening, we will have a short briefing about the upcoming trek to ensure you’re fully prepared for the journey ahead. Spend the night at your hotel, gearing up for the adventure that awaits. (1,400m)
Today, you’ll embark on an early morning flight to Lukla, a gateway to the Khumbu region, with stunning aerial views of the Himalayan range. Once you arrive in Lukla, you’ll meet your horse and begin riding through pine forests and small Sherpa settlements, making your way down to Phakding. The trail is well-maintained and mostly downhill, offering a comfortable introduction to the trek. Riding time is approximately 3-4 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy the scenery. (2,860m to 2,610m)
After breakfast, saddle up and continue riding alongside the Dudh Koshi River. Cross several suspension bridges festooned with prayer flags as you ascend gradually. The trail begins to steepen as you approach the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park, where you will check in your permits. After the park, you’ll reach Namche Bazaar, a vibrant Sherpa town nestled in the mountains. Today involves 4-5 hours of riding, with the last section of the ascent requiring dismounting due to the steep terrain, which will take about 1-2 hours of trekking. (2,610m to 3,440m).
Today is reserved for acclimatization, allowing your body to adjust to the higher altitude. While the horses rest, you will embark on a short hike to the famous Everest View Hotel, which offers incredible panoramic views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and other towering peaks. The hike is about 3-4 hours in total and provides a perfect opportunity to explore the area while adjusting to the altitude. Afterward, you can spend the rest of the day exploring Namche Bazaar’s local markets, cafes, and museums.
You’ll resume your journey by riding towards Tengboche, a route that offers mesmerizing views of the Everest range. The trail gradually ascends through rhododendron forests, and as you near Tengboche, you’ll see the renowned Tengboche Monastery, the largest in the Khumbu region. The ride today will take approximately 4-5 hours, with brief stops for photographs and breaks. Once you reach Tengboche, you can explore the monastery and enjoy the serene atmosphere. (3,440m to 3,860m).
Today’s trek takes you deeper into the Khumbu Valley as you ascend towards Dingboche. The trail offers breathtaking views of Ama Dablam and other majestic peaks as you cross small villages and ascend steadily. You’ll spend about 4-5 hours riding today, with some trekking along steeper sections where horses cannot navigate. The altitude becomes more noticeable, but the gradual ascent helps in acclimatizing. (3,860m to 4,410m).
A second acclimatization day is crucial as you approach higher altitudes. You’ll take a short but steep trek up to Nangkartshang Peak, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Makalu, Lhotse, and other stunning Himalayan peaks. This hike takes about 4-5 hours, offering a challenging but rewarding experience. Afterward, you’ll return to Dingboche for the night, with the rest of the day free to relax and explore. (4,410m).
As you ascend further, the terrain becomes more rugged and barren, but the views grow even more spectacular. The journey from Dingboche to Lobuche is relatively moderate, involving about 4-5 hours of riding with some trekking where the trail is steep. Along the way, you’ll pass the memorial site dedicated to climbers who lost their lives on Everest, offering a moment for reflection. (4,410m to 4,940m).
Today is the highlight of the trek as you make your way to Everest Base Camp. You’ll ride from Lobuche to Gorakshep, a journey of about 3 hours. After arriving in Gorakshep, the horses will rest as you trek to Everest Base Camp, which takes about 2-3 hours each way. The feeling of standing at the base of the world’s tallest peak is indescribable. After soaking in the awe-inspiring atmosphere and capturing photos, you’ll return to Gorakshep for the night. (4,940m to 5,170m to 5,364m and back to 5,170m).
An early morning hike to Kala Patthar offers one of the best viewpoints of Mount Everest. The trek takes about 2-3 hours and provides breathtaking sunrise views over Everest and the surrounding peaks. Afterward, you’ll return to Gorakshep, mount your horse, and ride down to Pheriche, a journey of approximately 4 hours. (5,170m to 5,545m to 4,210m).
Today, you’ll retrace your steps back to Namche Bazaar, enjoying a mostly downhill ride. The trail offers familiar views but from a different perspective. You’ll ride for about 5-6 hours, with stops along the way to rest and enjoy the scenery. As you arrive in Namche, you can relax and reflect on the incredible journey you’ve undertaken. (4,210m to 3,440m).
Your final day of riding takes you back to Lukla, a journey of about 5 hours. The route descends through the same trail, offering a last look at the stunning landscapes and Sherpa villages. Upon reaching Lukla, you’ll prepare for the scenic flight back to Kathmandu. If weather delays the flight, you may need to stay an extra night in Lukla. Otherwise, once in Kathmandu, you’ll be transferred to your hotel for a well-deserved rest. (3,440m to 2,860m).
After breakfast, we will transfer you to the airport for your onward journey. If you have extra time, you may opt for a guided city tour to explore Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites before your departure. This marks the end of your unforgettable Everest Base Camp Horse Riding Trek, filled with memories that will last a lifetime. (1,400m)
This itinerary offers a thrilling combination of horse riding and trekking, designed for acclimatization, scenic exploration, and cultural immersion.
