6 Best places to View sunrise in Nepal
1 Nagarkot
Nagarkot, located about 32 km east of Kathmandu in Bhaktapur District, is a popular hill station and part of Nagarkot Municipality as of 2015. Perched at an elevation of 2,195 meters (approximately 7,000 feet), it offers stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges, including Mount Everest and several others.
Known for its breathtaking sunrises, Nagarkot is a favorite spot for hikers and tourists looking to experience the beauty of the Himalayas and the surrounding Kathmandu Valley. From Nagarkot, visitors can see eight of Nepal’s thirteen Himalayan ranges, including the Annapurna, Manaslu, Langtang, and Mahalangur ranges. The area also provides views of Shivapuri National Park, making it a fantastic destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
How to Get There & Cost?
1. By Car or Taxi
- Duration: About 1.5 – 2 hours, depending on traffic.
- Cost: A taxi ride can cost between NPR 4,000 to NPR 5,000 (around USD 40–50), depending on your bargaining skills and starting location.
- Pros: Comfortable and private, allowing you to enjoy the scenic mountain views along the way.
- Cons: A bit more expensive compared to other options.
2. By Tourist Bus
- Duration: Around 2-3 hours.
- Cost: Approximately NPR 300 to NPR 500 (around USD 3–5).
- Pros: An economical and convenient choice, with buses often departing from Thamel.
- Cons: Limited schedule and more crowded than private options.
3. By Local Bus
- Route: Take a bus from Ratna Park Bus Station in Kathmandu to Bhaktapur, then transfer to a Nagarkot-bound bus.
- Duration: 2.5 – 3.5 hours, with the transfer time.
- Cost: NPR 100 – NPR 200 (under USD 2).
- Pros: Cheapest option, great for travelers wanting an authentic local experience.
- Cons: Buses are often crowded, and the trip may be uncomfortable due to frequent stops.
4. By Motorbike
- Duration: Around 1.5 hours.
- Pros: Flexible and scenic, allowing you to stop at various viewpoints along the way.
- Cons: Requires renting a bike and a valid driver’s license. Be prepared for winding roads and varying weather.
Each option offers its own experience, but whichever you choose, the journey to Nagarkot promises spectacular views of the hills and, on clear days, glimpses of the Himalayan range.
Can I Hike ?
Hiking from Kathmandu to Nagarkot is a great option if you’re up for an adventure! The hike offers beautiful scenery, peaceful villages, and panoramic mountain views along the way. Here’s how to go about it:
Hiking Route Options:
- Kathmandu to Nagarkot via Sankhu
- Starting Point: Take a local bus or taxi to Sankhu village (about 1 hour from Kathmandu).
- Hiking Duration: Around 4-5 hours from Sankhu to Nagarkot.
- Route: From Sankhu, you’ll follow trails through terraced fields, local villages, and forested areas, eventually reaching Nagarkot.
- Difficulty: Moderate, with some uphill climbs.
- Highlights: Stunning countryside views, authentic village life, and the tranquility of the forest.
- Bhaktapur to Nagarkot
- Starting Point: Take a bus to Bhaktapur (about 45 minutes from Kathmandu).
- Hiking Duration: 4-5 hours from Bhaktapur to Nagarkot.
- Route: Start at Bhaktapur, then take the road that winds through beautiful hills and rural landscapes.
- Difficulty: Moderate, with a gradual ascent.
- Highlights: Views of Bhaktapur’s terraced fields, local villages, and a rewarding view of the mountains at the top.
Things to Keep in Mind:
- Start Early: Begin your hike early in the day to reach Nagarkot by afternoon and enjoy the sunset.
- Gear: Wear comfortable hiking shoes, bring water, snacks, and layers, as the temperature can vary.
- Guide Option: Hiring a guide can help you navigate trails and learn about the area. Top1trekking Can Help with that.
- Return Trip: Most people stay overnight in Nagarkot to enjoy the sunrise, then either hike Back or take a bus or taxi back to Kathmandu.
- Entrance Fees Nagarkot View Tower: NPR 50 – NPR 200 (USD 0.5 – 1.5) for access to the best sunrise and mountain views.
Hiking to Nagarkot is a rewarding way to experience Nepal’s natural beauty and local culture!
How Much Accommodation & Food Cost?
1. Accommodation
- Budget Guesthouses: NPR 1,000 – NPR 3,000 (USD 8 – 25) per night
- Mid-range Hotels: NPR 3,000 – NPR 6,000 (USD 25 – 50) per night
- Luxury Resorts: NPR 6,000 – NPR 12,000+ (USD 50 – 100+) per night
2. Food and Drink
High-End Dining: NPR 1,500+ (USD 12+) per meal at resort restaurants
Local Restaurants: NPR 200 – NPR 500 (USD 1.5 – 4) per meal
Mid-range Dining: NPR 500 – NPR 1,500 (USD 4 – 12) per meal
2 Sarangkot
Sarangkot is in Pokhara Kaski District Nepal it is a popular tourist destination for those who arrive in Pokhara. Sarangkot is a hill on the western side of Pokhara with an altitude of 1600 m and is known for panoramic Himalayan views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri as Pokhara city including Phewa Lake.
How to get There & Cost?
Sarangkot is a popular destination near Pokhara, Nepal, known for its breathtaking sunrise views over the Himalayas, including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare (Fishtail). Here’s how to get there from Pokhara:
1. By Taxi
- Duration: About 30-45 minutes from Pokhara.
- Cost: NPR 1,500 – NPR 2,500 (USD 12 – 20) for a one-way trip, or NPR 3,000 – NPR 4,000 (USD 25 – 35) for a round trip.
- Pros: Comfortable and convenient, especially if you want to go for the early sunrise.
- Cons: Higher cost compared to other options.
2. By Local Bus
- Route: Take a bus from the Baglung Bus Park in Pokhara toward Kaskikot or Sarangkot.
- Duration: Around 1-1.5 hours, depending on the bus schedule.
- Cost: NPR 50 – NPR 100 (USD 0.5 – 1) per person.
- Pros: Very affordable, and a good way to experience local transport.
- Cons: Buses are often crowded and may not run on a strict schedule.
3. By Motorbike or Scooter
- Duration: About 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions.
- Cost: Renting a motorbike or scooter costs around NPR 800 – NPR 1,500 (USD 6 – 12) per day.
- Pros: Flexible and allows you to stop for photos along the way.
Cons: Requires a valid driver’s license, and the road is winding and steep in some places.
Can I Hike There?
By Hiking
Cons: Challenging if you’re not used to hiking or altitude, so it’s best for those in good physical shape.
Route: Start from Pokhara’s Lakeside area and follow the signs/trails to Sarangkot.
Duration: 2.5 – 3.5 hours of hiking uphill.
Pros: Beautiful, scenic route with views of Phewa Lake and Pokhara Valley; great for adventurous travelers.
Accommodation and Food Cost?
In Sarangkot, you’ll find a range of accommodations and food options that suit different budgets, from basic guesthouses to mid-range hotels. Here’s a breakdown:
1. Accommodation Options
- Budget Guesthouses:
- Cost: NPR 1,000 – NPR 2,500 (USD 8 – 20) per night.
- Amenities: Basic rooms with shared or private bathrooms, often with free Wi-Fi, and mountain views.
- Examples: Local guesthouses or tea houses near the Sarangkot Viewpoint.
- Mid-range Hotels:
- Cost: NPR 3,000 – NPR 6,000 (USD 25 – 50) per night.
- Amenities: Comfortable rooms with private bathrooms, Wi-Fi, in-house restaurants, and great balcony views of the mountains.
- Examples: Sarangkot Mountain Lodge, and Hotel Mountain Garden.
- Luxury Resorts:
- Cost: NPR 7,000 – NPR 15,000+ (USD 60 – 125+) per night.
- Amenities: Spacious rooms or suites, scenic balconies, fine dining, spa facilities, and often panoramic views.
- Examples: Sarangkot Panorama Eco Lodge, Himalayan Front Hotel by KGH Group.
2. Food Options
- Local Eateries and Tea Houses:
- Cost: NPR 200 – NPR 500 (USD 1.5 – 4) per meal.
- Options: Simple, hearty Nepalese meals like dal Bhat (lentil soup with rice), momos (dumplings), and thukpa (noodle soup). Tea and coffee are widely available.
- Pros: Budget-friendly, authentic, and filling.
- Mid-range Restaurants:
- Cost: NPR 500 – NPR 1,500 (USD 4 – 12) per meal.
- Options: Nepalese, Indian, and some Western options, including curries, fried rice, pasta, and breakfast items.
- Pros: More variety and a bit more comfortable dining environment.
- Dining in Hotels or Resorts:
- Cost: NPR 1,500+ (USD 12+) per meal, depending on the dish.
- Options: Diverse menus featuring Nepalese, Continental, and Chinese cuisine, with some including special Nepali set menus.
- Pros: Good ambiance, usually with stunning views and attentive service.
Sample Budget (Per Day)
- Budget Traveler: NPR 2,000 – NPR 4,000 (USD 15 – 30), including accommodation, food, and entrance fees.
- Mid-range Traveler: NPR 5,000 – NPR 10,000 (USD 40 – 80), with more comfortable accommodation and meals.
- Luxury Traveler: NPR 10,000+ (USD 80+), including high-end stays and fine dining options.
- Top1trekking can help with everything.
Staying overnight in Sarangkot is highly recommended to enjoy the sunrise and sunset views without the early morning rush!
What Time is the Sunrise?
Things to Remember for Sunrise Visits
- Start Early: To catch the sunrise, start around 4:30-5:00 AM.
- Warm Clothing: Mornings are often cold, so bring layers.
- Entrance Fee: There is a small entrance fee of NPR 100 – NPR 200 (USD 1 – 1.5) at the Sarangkot Viewpoint.
3 Chandragri Hill
Chandragiri Hill, situated approximately seven kilometers from Thankot on the southwestern edge of the Kathmandu Valley, reaches an elevation of 2,551 meters (about 8,333 feet). This picturesque hill offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley and the majestic Himalayan range, stretching from Annapurna to Everest.
One of the hill’s highlights is its cable car system, which provides convenient access to the Bhaleshwor Mahadev temple at the summit. Chandragiri also holds historical significance as the location where Prithivi Narayan Shah decided to annex the beautiful Nepal Valley into his Gorkha Kingdom. This blend of stunning natural beauty and rich history makes Chandragiri a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists alike.
How to Get There & Cost?
1. By Cable Car
Local Bus: Buses to Thankot are available from Ratna Park in Kathmandu, costing NPR 30 – NPR 50 (USD 0.25 – 0.50).
Route: From Kathmandu, head to the Thankot area, where the Chandragiri Cable Car station is located.
Duration: About 15-20 minutes by cable car to reach the top of the hill.
Cost: NPR 700 (USD 6) for Nepalese citizens and NPR 2,200 (USD 18) for foreigners (round-trip ticket).
How to Reach the Cable Car Station:
Taxi: Around 30-45 minutes from central Kathmandu, costing NPR 800 – NPR 1,500 (USD 6 – 12).
Can I Hike There ?
By Hiking
Highlights: A rewarding experience for nature lovers, with scenic views along the trail.
Starting Point: Drive or take a bus to Thankot, and begin the hike from there.
Duration: Around 3-4 hours, depending on your pace.
Difficulty: Moderate, with a steep ascent in some areas.
Accommodation and Food Cost?
1. Accommodation Options
- Budget Guesthouses and Lodges:
- Cost: NPR 1,000 – NPR 2,500 (USD 8 – 20) per night.
- Amenities: Basic rooms with shared or private bathrooms, Wi-Fi, and some with valley views.
- Examples: Small local guesthouses around Thankot or near the cable car base.
- Mid-range Hotels:
- Cost: NPR 3,000 – NPR 6,000 (USD 25 – 50) per night.
- Amenities: Comfortable rooms, private bathrooms, in-house restaurants, and mountain or valley views.
- Examples: Hotels near Thankot or closer to the cable car area.
- Luxury Accommodation:
- Chandragiri Hills Resort is the main high-end accommodation on Chandragiri Hill itself.
- Cost: NPR 10,000 – NPR 20,000+ (USD 80 – 160+) per night.
- Amenities: Spacious rooms, beautiful mountain views, fine dining, spa, and wellness facilities.
- Note: Staying here allows easy access to the top of Chandragiri Hill for sunrise and sunset views.
2. Food Options
- Local Eateries at the Base in Thankot:
- Cost: NPR 200 – NPR 500 (USD 1.5 – 4) per meal.
- Options: Traditional Nepali dishes like dal bhat, momos, chow mein, and thukpa (noodle soup).
- Pros: Budget-friendly, authentic flavors, and filling meals.
- Restaurants in Chandragiri Hills Resort:
- Cost: NPR 1,500+ (USD 12+) per meal.
- Options: Nepalese, Continental, and Chinese cuisine, served in a nice ambiance with scenic views.
- Cafes and Food Stalls on Chandragiri Hill:
- Cost: NPR 300 – NPR 1,000 (USD 2.5 – 8) per snack or meal.
- Options: Light snacks, tea, coffee, and small meals with some options for fast food.
Sample Daily Budget (for Accommodation & Food)
- Budget Traveler: NPR 2,000 – NPR 4,000 (USD 15 – 30), including a guesthouse stay and local meals.
- Mid-range Traveler: NPR 5,000 – NPR 10,000 (USD 40 – 80), with a mid-range hotel and restaurant dining.
- Luxury Traveler: NPR 12,000+ (USD 100+), including a stay at Chandragiri Hills Resort and fine dining.
Staying overnight at Chandragiri is great for enjoying quieter views and sunrise or sunset over the Kathmandu Valley and the Himalayas!
What Time is the Sunrise?
In Chandragiri, near Kathmandu, the sunrise time varies slightly throughout the year. Here’s a general guide: to View the Best Sunrise in Nepal
- October to February: Around 6:15 – 6:45 AM
- March to May: Around 5:45 – 6:15 AM
- June to August: Around 5:15 – 5:45 AM
- September: Around 5:45 – 6:15 AM
For the most accurate sunrise time, check a weather or sunrise/sunset app based on your specific date of visit. Arriving about 30 minutes before sunrise is ideal for securing a good viewing spot and enjoying the changing colors over the Himalayas.
4 Poon Hill
Poon Hill, originally known as Pun Hill, is a stunning viewpoint in Nepal, situated on the border of Myagdi and Kaski Districts in Gandaki Province. It serves as a highlight of the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek, offering breathtaking views of the Annapurna Massif and the Dhaulagiri mountain range. From Poon Hill, trekkers can marvel at iconic peaks such as Annapurna (8,091 m), Dhaulagiri (8,127 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), Machapuchare (6,993 m), and several others, making it a popular destination for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
How to get There ?
Poon Hill is a famous trekking destination in Nepal known for its stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, especially during sunrise. Making This place one of best place to view sunrise in Nepal. Here’s an overview itinerary of how to get there: ( Because of the famous trekking destination before you decide to go there is better to check with the trekking company in Thamel Kathmandu or Pokhara)
1. Getting to the Starting Point – Nayapul or Ghandruk
- From Pokhara:
- Take a bus, jeep, or taxi to Nayapul or Ghandruk, the starting point for the Poon Hill trek.
- Duration: About 1.5 – 2 hours by vehicle from Pokhara to Nayapul or Ghandruk.
- Cost:
- Local Bus: NPR 300 – NPR 500 (USD 2.5 – 4)
- Shared Jeep: NPR 1000- NPR 1500 (USD 8 – 12)
- Private Taxi: NPR 4,000 – NPR 5,000 (USD 30 – 40)
2. The Poon Hill Trek Route
Day 1:Trek from Nayapul to Tikhedhunga or Ulleri.
Duration: 5-6 hours of trekking.
Overnight Stay: Lodges in Tikhedhunga or Ulleri.
Day 2:Trek from Ulleri to Ghorepani.
Duration: 5-6 hours of trekking, with beautiful rhododendron forests.
Overnight Stay: Lodge or teahouse in Ghorepani.
Day 3:Early morning hike to Poon Hill for sunrise.
Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour uphill hike from Ghorepani to Poon Hill.
Return to Ghorepani for breakfast, then trek to Tadapani or continue toward Ghandruk. (Option back to Tikhedhunga and Take jeep back Pokhara.
Permits Required
TIMS Card: NPR 2,000 (USD 15) for individual trekkers.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): NPR 3,000 (USD 25) for foreigners.
Accommodation & Food Cost?
Cost: Teahouses cost around NPR 500 – NPR 1,500 (USD 4 – 12) per night, while meals cost NPR 600 – NPR 1500 (USD 5 – 12) each.
Options: Basic but comfortable lodges and teahouses along the route with Nepalese and some Continental dishes.
Best Time To Visit
October – November and March are ideal for clear skies and mild weather, offering the best sunrise and mountain views.
What Time is Sunrise?
The sunrise time at Poon Hill varies throughout the year. Here’s an approximate guide:
- October to February: Around 6:15 – 6:45 AM
- March to May: Around 5:30 – 6:00 AM
- June to August: Around 5:15 – 5:45 AM
- September: Around 5:45 – 6:15 AM
Arriving at Poon Hill about 30 minutes before sunrise is ideal, as you’ll have time to find a good spot and watch the sky change colors as the sun rises over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
Note: Asking at the Local Teahouse For sunrise is better and make your dream come true that view the best sunrise in Nepal.
5 Gokyo Ri
Gokyo Peak rises majestically to 5,357 meters (17,575 feet) in the Khumbu region of the Nepal Himalayas. Nestled on the west side of the Ngozumpa Glacier—Nepal’s largest glacier and arguably the largest in the entire Himalayas—Gokyo Peak offers breathtaking views and remarkable landscapes.
At the foot of Gokyo Ri lies the village of Gokyo (4,750 m or 15,583 ft), one of the highest inhabited settlements in the world, featuring cozy lodges and welcoming homes. From the summit of Gokyo Ri, trekkers are rewarded with panoramic vistas of four of the world’s towering 8,000-meter peaks: Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. The summit also provides stunning views of the Gokyo Lakes—a series of five tranquil glacial lakes—as well as other notable peaks like Pumori and Nuptse.
The Gokyo trek is a popular route, typically culminating at Gokyo Ri, after which trekkers often retrace their steps. For the more adventurous, an alternative route leads from the southern tip of the Ngozumpa Glacier over the Cho La Pass (5,420 m or 17,782 ft), connecting with the main Everest Base Camp trek.
Although Gokyo is slightly off the direct path to Everest Base Camp, it remains a sought-after destination for thousands of trekkers drawn to the stunning beauty of the Gokyo Lakes and the surrounding mountains. Additionally, a higher summit just north of the main trek route reaches 5,483 meters (17,989 feet), providing further opportunities for exploration and breathtaking views.
How to Get There ?
The trek to Gokyo begins from Lukla. Here are the common ways to reach Lukla from Kathmandu:
By Flight (Kathmandu to Lukla)
- Duration: 30-35 minute flight.
- Cost: Around USD 150 – 200 one way.
- Pros: Fast and convenient.
- Cons: Flights are weather-dependent and often subject to delays.
Alternative Route: By Road to Jiri or Phaplu + Trek to Lukla
Duration: 8-10 hours by bus or jeep to Jiri or Phaplu, then 2-3 days of trekking to Lukla. Privet Jeep costs 200$ around
Cost: NPR 1,500 – 2,500 (USD 12 – 20) for the bus/jeep ride. Privet Jeep costs 200$ around
Pros: Longer but scenic route, suitable for those wanting a less crowded trek.
Cons: Adds extra trekking days.
The Gokyo Ri Trek Route
The Gokyo trek typically follows the following itinerary:
Day 1: Lukla to Phakding
- Duration: 3-4 hours trek.
- Altitude: 2,610 meters (8,562 feet).
- Overnight Stay: Teahouse in Phakding.
Day 2: Phakding to Namche Bazaar
- Duration: 6-7 hours trek.
- Altitude: 3,440 meters (11,286 feet).
- Overnight Stay: Teahouse in Namche Bazaar (Day 3: acclimatization day recommended here).
Day 4: Namche Bazaar to Dole
- Duration: 5-6 hours trek.
- Altitude: 4,200 meters (13,779 feet).
- Overnight Stay: Teahouse in Dole.
Day 5: Dole to Machhermo
- Duration: 4-5 hours trek.
- Altitude: 4,470 meters (14,665 feet).
- Overnight Stay: Teahouse in Machhermo.
Day 6: Machhermo to Gokyo
- Duration: 4-5 hours trek.
- Altitude: 4,800 meters (15,748 feet).
- Overnight Stay: Teahouse in Gokyo.
Day 7: Visit Gokyo Ri for Sunrise
- Gokyo Ri Hike: 2-3 hours to the top at 5,357 meters (17,575 feet) for sunrise.
- View: Stunning panoramic views of Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Makalu. Making Gokyo Ri the best place to watch the sunrise in Nepal.
- Return: Descend to Gokyo and continue trekking via the Renjo La Pass or backtrack to Lukla. (Day 8,9,10)
- Fly back to Kathmandu
Note: Those who want to go by bus or jeep to Jiri or Phaplu, then 2-3 days of trekking to Lukla.
Required permits
Sagarmatha National Park Permit: NPR 3,000 (USD 25) for foreigners.
Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit: NPR 2,000 (USD 15) for foreigners.
Accommodation and Food
Teahouses: Teahouses and lodges are available along the trail, providing basic yet comfortable accommodation.
Meals: Nepalese and Western-style meals are available at teahouses.
- Cost: NPR 3000 – NPR 5000 (USD 25 – 40) Per Day.
Can I go without Guide?
The Nepal Government made it mandatory to hire a licensed holder guide From April 1, 2023 It is always better to check with a local trekking company in Thamel or online.
The cost of a guide is Around USD 25 to USD 35 if you need porters it will cost around USD 20 to USD 25 Per Day.
Best Time to Visit
Best Time to Visit
Autumn (September-November): Ideal for clear mountain views and stable weather.
Spring (March-May): Pleasant weather and clear skies.
What Time is the sunrise?
The sunrise time at Gokyo Ri varies depending on the season, but generally, it occurs between 5:30 AM and 6:30 AM. Here’s an approximate guide:
September: Around 5:45 – 6:15 AM
October to February: Around 6:15 – 6:45 AM
March to May: Around 5:30 – 6:00 AM
June to August: Around 5:15 – 5:45 AM
Remember this is just an estimate, and the actual sunrise time may vary slightly depending on weather conditions. It’s always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your hike.
It’s recommended to start the hike to Gokyo Ri at least 2-3 hours before sunrise, as it takes about 2-3 hours to reach the summit from Gokyo. This way, you can catch the first light over the Himalayas, including views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
Tips for the Gokyo Trek
Weather: Always check weather forecasts, as flights to/from Lukla can be delayed or canceled due to bad weather.
Acclimatization: Acclimatizing at Namche Bazaar is important to avoid altitude sickness.
6 Kala Patthar
Kala Patthar, meaning black rock is a prominent landmark situated on the south ridge of Pumori, above Gorakshep in the Nepali Himalayas. While it is not classified as a mountain due to its modest prominence of only 10 meters (33 feet), the ascent of Kala Patthar is highly popular among trekkers, as it offers one of the best accessible close-up views of Mount Everest.
Due to the unique structure of the Everest Massif, much of Everest’s summit is obscured by Nuptse from surrounding areas, making Kala Patthar a favored vantage point. From its summit, trekkers are treated to spectacular views of Everest, Nuptse, and Changtse, along with glimpses of Lhotse’s northern flank and summit. Kala Patthar was home to the world’s highest webcam, capturing the stunning landscape.
The elevation of Kala Patthar is commonly listed between 5,545 and 5,550 meters (18,192 to 18,209 feet), though some sources suggest it may be as high as 5,600 meters (18,373 feet). GPS measurements in 2006 indicated an elevation of 5,643 meters (18,514 feet), which may account for additional stones placed there as a celebratory cairn.
The trek to Kala Patthar begins at Gorakshep (5,164 m or 16,942 ft), the original base camp for Mount Everest. The trail ascends via a series of steep switchbacks after descending to an ancient lake bed (now featuring a small lake and helipad). It levels off as it traverses the eastern side before steepening again to the wind-swept summit ridge. A short scramble over boulders leads to the top, marked by prayer flags. This ascent typically takes between 1.5 to 2 hours from Gorakshep, but if starting from Lobuche, trekkers should expect an additional 2 to 3 hours one way.
Despite its minor status as a summit, Kala Patthar remains a significant highlight for trekkers in the Everest region, celebrated for its breathtaking views and accessible altitude without the need for a climbing permit.
How to get There ?
1. Getting to the Starting Point – Lukla
The trek to Kala Patthar starts from Lukla. Also known as the Everest base camp trek Here’s how to reach Lukla:
By Flight (Kathmandu to Lukla)
- Duration: 30-35 minutes.
- Cost: USD 150 – 200 one way.
- Pros: Fastest and most convenient way.
- Cons: Weather-dependent, with frequent delays and cancellations.
Alternative Route: By Road to Jiri or Phaplu + Trek to Lukla
Cons: Adds extra trekking days.
Duration: 8-10 hours by bus or jeep to Jiri or Phaplu, followed by a 2-3 day trek to Lukla.
Cost: NPR 1,500 – 2,500 (USD 12 – 20) for the bus/jeep ride.
Pros: Scenic and less crowded.
Kala Patthar (Everest Base camp Trek ) Route
Day 1: Lukla to Phakding
- Duration: 3-4 hours.
- Altitude: 2,610 meters (8,562 feet).
- Overnight: Teahouse in Phakding.
Day 2: Phakding to Namche Bazaar
- Duration: 6-7 hours.
- Altitude: 3,440 meters (11,286 feet).
- Overnight: Teahouse in Namche Bazaar.
- Note: Acclimatization day is recommended at Namche.
Day 3: Namche Bazaar to Tengboche
- Duration: 5-6 hours.
- Altitude: 3,860 meters (12,664 feet).
- Overnight: Teahouse in Tengboche.
Day 4: Tengboche to Dingboche
- Duration: 5-6 hours.
- Altitude: 4,410 meters (14,469 feet).
- Overnight: Teahouse in Dingboche.
Day 5: Acclimatization Day in Dingboche
- Purpose: To adjust to the altitude, with a short hike to a higher altitude and back to Dingboche.
Day 6: Dingboche to Lobuche
- Duration: 5-6 hours.
- Altitude: 4,940 meters (16,207 feet).
- Overnight: Teahouse in Lobuche.
Day 7: Lobuche to Gorak Shep
- Duration: 3-4 hours.
- Altitude: 5,170 meters (16,961 feet).
- Overnight: Teahouse in Gorak Shep.
Day 8: Trek to Everest Base Camp and Back to Gorak Shep
- Duration: 5-6 hours round trip.
- Altitude: 5,364 meters (17,598 feet) at Everest Base Camp.
- Overnight: Teahouse in Gorak Shep.
Day 9: Hike to Kala Patthar
- Start Early Morning: Begin the trek before sunrise to catch the best views.
- Duration: 2-3 hours uphill to the summit of Kala Patthar.
- Altitude: 5,644 meters (18,519 feet).
- Views: Panoramic views of Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, and Pumori.
- Return to Gorak Shep: After spending some time at the top, descend back to Gorak Shep.
Day: 10,11,12 Flow the same way back to Lukla
Permits Required
Sagarmatha National Park Permit: NPR 3,000 (USD 25) for foreigners.
Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit: NPR 2,000 (USD 15) for foreigners.
Accommodation and Food
Teahouses: Teahouses and lodges are available along the trail.
Meals: Basic meals such as dal bhat, noodles, and soup are common.
Cost: NPR 3000 – NPR 4000 (USD 25 – 40) per Day
Do I need a Guide?
The Nepal Government made it mandatory to hire a licensed guide from April 1, 2023. It’s recommended to check with a local trekking company in Thamel or online.
Cost:
Porter: Around USD 20 to USD 25 per day
Guide: Around USD 25 to USD 35 per day
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Mild weather and clear skies.
Autumn (September-November): Stable weather and the best views of the mountains.
Tips and sunrise Time for Kala Patthar
The sunrise time at Kala Patthar varies throughout the year, but here’s an approximate guide:
- October to February: Around 6:15 – 6:45 AM
- March to May: Around 5:30 – 6:00 AM
- June to August: Around 5:15 – 5:45 AM
- September: Around 5:45 – 6:15 AM
Your plan for witnessing a breathtaking sunrise at Kala Patthar is spot on! Starting the hike between 4:00 and 5:00 AM gives you ample time to reach the summit and enjoy the magical sunrise over Mount Everest and the surrounding peaks.
Here’s a quick recap of important tips to remember:
- Acclimatization: Spend adequate time acclimatizing at Gorak Shep or higher elevations during your trek to avoid altitude sickness. Taking it slow is key.
- Warm Clothing: The early morning temperatures at Kala Patthar can be extremely cold, especially before sunrise. Make sure you have layers, including a warm jacket, gloves, a hat, and thermal layers to keep yourself comfortable.
- Hydration: Staying hydrated is crucial, even if the cold reduces your thirst. Carry enough water, and consider hydration tablets to replenish electrolytes.
- Headlamp: Since you’ll be starting early in the dark, a good headlamp or flashlight is essential for navigating the rocky path.
By following these precautions, you’ll be well-prepared for one of the most unforgettable sunrise experiences in the Everest region!