We start the trek with a day in Kathmandu for guided sightseeing of the major Hindu and Buddhist sites before taking an unforgettable flight to the mountain airstrip at Lukla, high above the Dudh Kosi Valley. From here we ascend through alpine forests and fascinating Sherpa villages to the prosperous village of Namche Bazaar, the trading capital of the Khumbu. Along the trails colourful prayer flags and Buddhist monuments are seen against a backdrop of glorious Himalayan mountains. Two nights in Namche and a detour up the Bhote Kosi valley to Thame village provides essential acclimatisation as we explore trails less frequented by the western trekker. Continuing higher through the main valley we arrive at Gorak Shep and ascend the amazing Kala Pattar (5600m). Views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers including the black rocky ramparts of Everest's southwest face are simply awesome. We have a day to visit Everest Base Camp, walking across the Khumbu Glacier to the site of Base Camp at the foot of the immensely impressive Khumbu Icefall. Our return journey will take us to Thyangboche Monastery, the most important centre of Buddhism in the area, before ending our trek at Lukla and another chance to experience the exciting mountain flight to Kathmandu.