Umakunda-Dudhkund-Tate Tenzing Hillary Trail

A Camping-Exclusive Himalayan Odyssey

Step Beyond the Ordinary. Walk with Legends. Live the Untamed Himalayas.

Welcome to Nepal’s best-kept secret—a trail forged by pioneers, untouched by mass tourism, and revived after 70 years. The Umakunda-Dudhkund-Tate Tenzing Hillary Trail invites intrepid souls to experience the Himalayas as Tenzing Norgay Sherpa and Sir Edmund Hillary once did: immersed in raw wilderness, under star-studded skies, and connected deeply to the land and its people.

This is not just a trek—it’s a camping-only expedition into the heart of Upper Ramechhap and the Everest foothills. Here, luxury lodges fade away, replaced by pristine alpine campsites, crackling campfires, and nights wrapped in the silence of sacred valleys.

Accomodation
Homestay
Maximum Altitude
4,900m (Balthang Peak optional climb)
Walking Hours
5-7 Hours
Transportation
Fly, Bus, Car, Taxi
Best Season
Whole year

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

The Umakunda–Dudhkunda–Tate Tenzing-Hillary Trail is a camping-only expedition that takes you deep into Upper Ramechhap and the Everest foothills, retracing a historic 70-year-old route once traversed by pioneers Tenzing Norgay Sherpa and Sir Edmund Hillary. Designed for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, the trail features no teahouses or lodges—only pristine alpine campsites, crackling campfires, sacred lakes, and immersive Sherpa culture. Along the way, trekkers journey through stunning landscapes within the greater Sagarmatha region, experiencing its unique ecosystems and protected natural beauty.

Trip Highlights

A Wilderness Reborn Trek through the untouched landscapes of Sagarmatha National Park (UNESCO World Heritage) and the Likhu River basin. Cross glacial valleys, rhododendron forests, and high-altitude lakes like the mystical Dudhkund, where snow leopards roam and Himalayan monal pheasants flash their iridescent colors.
Camping as It Was Meant to Be Sleep Under the Stars: Pitch tents beside glacial lakes, alpine meadows, and ancient Sherpa villages. Zero Lodges, Total Immersion: This trail is exclusively camping-based—no teahouses, no crowds, just you and the Himalayas. Eco-Conscious Camping: Leave-no-trace practices, solar-powered lights, and biodegradable waste systems ensure the land remains pristine.
Follow Legendary Footsteps Retrace routes once traveled by Tenzing Norgay and Sir Edmund Hillary, explore historic salt-trade paths, and summit viewpoints like Pikey Peak, where Everest glows at dawn.
Culture Around the Campfire Share stories with Sherpa guides and porters under a Milky Way canopy. Visit cliffside monasteries, join Buddhist ceremonies, and witness festivals in remote villages.
Tackle high passes like Taksindu La (3,070m) or traverse the Numbur Himal Circuit.
Meditate beside Dudhkund Lake, a pilgrimage site believed to grant enlightenment.
Walk paths where history, myth, and mountain culture intertwine.
We partner with Sherpa-owned outfitters and hire porters from nearby villages.
Limited group sizes, reusable gear, and contributions to reforestation projects help preserve nature.

Day 01 :

Kathmandu to Lahachherwar (2,760m)

Drive Duration: 11 hours
Highlights: Scenic mountain roads, transition from bustling city to serene hills.
Experience: Begin your journey with a scenic drive through Nepal’s rural landscapes, passing terraced fields, rivers, and traditional villages. Arrive in Lahachherwar, a quiet village where you’ll spend your first night acclimatizing to the Himalayan air.

Day 02 :

Lahachherwar to Ngeju Kharka (3,775m)

Trek Duration: 6 hours
Highlights: First views of snow-capped peaks, lush rhododendron forests.
Experience: Trek through dense forests and yak pastures, gradually ascending to Ngeju Kharka. Soak in the serene atmosphere and prepare for higher altitudes.

Day 03 :

Ngeju Kharka to Kangchhorten Temple (4,110m) via Dudhpokhari

Trek Duration: 6 hours (+ short trip to Dudhpokhari)
Highlights: Sacred Dudhpokhari Lake, ancient Buddhist temples.
Experience: Hike to the sacred Dudhpokhari Lake, a tranquil alpine lake surrounded by prayer flags. Continue to Kangchhorten Temple, a spiritual hub offering panoramic mountain vistas.

Day 04 :

Kangchhorten Temple to Halamcho (4,400m) via 4,800m High Pass

Trek Duration: 7 hours
Highlights: Crossing the 4,800m high pass, dramatic Himalayan panoramas.
Experience: Challenge yourself with a steep ascent to the high pass, rewarded with jaw-dropping views of Numbur Himal and the Mahalangur ranges. Descend to Halamcho, a remote pastureland dotted with yaks.

Day 05 :

Halamcho to Choringbu (4,350m)

Trek Duration: 5 hours
Highlights: Alpine meadows, encounters with nomadic herders.
Experience: Traverse pristine valleys and glacial streams, immersing yourself in the raw beauty of the Himalayas. Choringbu serves as a peaceful base for acclimatization.

Day 06 :

Rest Day in Choringbu – Optional Climb to Balthang Peak (4,900m)

Highlights:

Balthang Peak Climb: A challenging but rewarding ascent to a panoramic viewpoint.
360-Degree Views: Witness Everest (8,848m), Numbur Himal (6,958m), Thamserku (6,623m), and the Mahalangur Himalayan range.
Glacial Lakes & Valleys: Spot Dudhkundha, Sahasrabeni, and the sprawling Likhu Valley.

Day 7 :

Why Add Balthang Peak?

Experience:
Turn your rest day into an adventurous climb! From Choringbu (4,350m), embark on a 4–5 hour round-trip hike to Balthang Peak (4,900m). This non-technical climb rewards trekkers with jaw-dropping vistas of the Everest region, glacial valleys, and alpine lakes. The trail winds through rugged moraines and high-altitude meadows, offering glimpses of Himalayan wildlife such as blue sheep and snow partridges. Return to Choringbu by midday for a relaxed afternoon.

Why Add Balthang Peak?

Perfect for photography enthusiasts and peak collectors.
Minimal gear required (trekking poles recommended).
A quiet, crowd-free alternative to mainstream viewpoints.

Note:
This climb is optional. Those preferring a rest day can stay in Choringbu or explore nearby pastures. Ensure proper acclimatization before attempting the climb.

Key Benefits of Adding Balthang Peak:

Unmatched Panoramas: See Everest, Lhotse, and the Rolwaling Range in one sweeping view.
Cultural Connection: Spot ancient herder trails and chortens (Buddhist shrines) along the route.
Bragging Rights: Summit a lesser-known Himalayan peak!

Day 07 :

Choringbu to Sahasrabeni (3,835m) via Dudhkundha

Trek Duration: 7 hours
Highlights: Sacred Dudhkundha Lake, Sagarmatha National Park wildlife
Experience: Descend through rhododendron forests to Sahasrabeni, detouring to the sacred Dudhkundha Lake—a spiritual site revered by Sherpas. Keep an eye out for Himalayan wildlife such as musk deer and pheasants.

Day 08 :

Sahasrabeni to Aalchakharka (4,240m)

Trek Duration: 8 hours
Highlights: Remote trails, views of Everest and Lhotse
Experience: Trek through rugged terrain, passing ancient mani walls and chortens. Aalchakharka offers stunning sunset views over the Everest range.

Day 09 :

Aalchakharka to Tate (2,870m)

Trek Duration: 5 hours
Highlights: Transition to lower valleys, Sherpa hospitality
Experience: Descend into the Likhu Valley, arriving in the Sherpa village of Tate. Explore its monasteries and enjoy a warm cultural exchange with locals.

Day 10 :

Tate to Ghaat / Lukla / Surkhe – Return Options

Option 1: Tate to Ghaat (2,575m)
Trek Duration: 4 hours
Purpose: Continue toward Everest Base Camp or other Everest trails.

Option 2: Tate to Lukla (2,840m)
Trek Duration: 4 hours
Flight to Kathmandu: A thrilling 35-minute flight over the Himalayas.

Option 3: Tate to Surkhe
Trek Duration: 5 hours
Drive to Kathmandu: A scenic 8–9-hour road journey.

FAQs

Expand all

What is the trek difficulty level?

The Tenzing Hillary Trail ranges from moderate to challenging. Trekkers will cross high passes up to 4,800m, traverse glacial valleys, and walk through alpine meadows. The optional Balthang Peak climb reaches 4,900m, providing panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and surrounding Himalayan ranges. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended.

Is prior trekking experience required?

Prior trekking experience is not mandatory, but it is helpful for navigating steep ascents, high passes, and long trekking days (up to 8 hours). The route involves uneven terrain, glacial streams, and altitude adjustments, so acclimatization and physical preparedness improve safety and enjoyment.

Are permits required?

Yes. Trekkers need permits for Sagarmatha National Park, where sections of the trail pass through UNESCO-listed protected ecosystems. Visits to local monasteries and sacred lakes like Dudhpokhari are included, and entry permits are managed by your trekking guides.

What is the best time to go?

Spring (March–May) is ideal for rhododendron blooms, clear skies, and moderate temperatures. Autumn (September–November) offers crisp air, stable weather, and unobstructed views of Everest, Makalu, Kanchenjunga, and surrounding peaks. Avoid the monsoon season (June–August) due to heavy rainfall and slippery trails.

Is camping mandatory?

Yes. This is a camping-focused trail, intentionally off-the-beaten-path. There are no teahouses or lodges along the main route, ensuring total immersion in nature. Camp beside glacial lakes, alpine meadows, and traditional Sherpa villages while following eco-conscious practices.

Can I do the optional Balthang Peak climb?

Yes. The climb is non-technical and takes about 5–6 hours round-trip from Choringbu (4,350m). Trekkers are rewarded with 360° Himalayan vistas, including Everest, Dudhkundha Lake, and the Rolwaling Range. Trekking poles are recommended. Those preferring rest can stay at Choringbu or explore nearby

What kind of accommodation is provided?

Accommodation is primarily in tents at alpine campsites. In some villages like Tate, Sallari, or Junbesi, trekkers may stay in homestays or basic lodges. All accommodations focus on comfort while maintaining close contact with nature and Sherpa culture.

Are meals included?

Yes. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided during the trek. Meals include locally sourced ingredients and Nepali cuisine. On camping days, meals are cooked by trekking staff at campsites. Snacks, beverages, and personal drinks are not included.

How do I return to Kathmandu?

Trekkers have flexible return options:

Drive from Surkhe to Kathmandu (8–10 hours).
Flight from Lukla to Kathmandu (35-minute scenic journey).
Trek to Ghaat and continue to other Everest trails if extending the adventure.

Is this trek suitable for cultural and spiritual experiences?

Absolutely. The trail passes sacred lakes like Dudhpokhari, Buddhist temples such as Kangchhorten Temple, and monasteries like Thupten Choeling. Trekkers interact with Sherpa, Rai, and Tibetan Buddhist communities, participate in rituals, and experience nomadic Himalayan life. This combination of adventure and spiritual immersion is ideal for culturally curious travelers.

Umakunda-Dudhkund-Tate Tenzing Hillary Trail

Trip Info

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Trip Highlights

Itinerary

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