Horse Ride Trek to Everest Base Camp
Horse Riding Trek to Everest Base Camp is a unique adventure in the heart of the Himalayas, offering travelers the thrilling experience of horseback riding combined with trekking amidst breathtaking panoramas. This trek provides an extraordinary opportunity for those who wish to explore the enchanting Khumbu region but may not be able to trek for extended periods. Along the journey, travelers will witness spectacular views of Everest (8,848.86 m), Lhotse (8,516 m), Cho Oyu (8,201 m), Makalu (8,481 m), Pumori (7,161 m), Ama Dablam (6,856 m), Khumbila (5,761 m), Nuptse (7,861 m) and other majestic peaks while riding on the back of these Himalayan carriers.
The Horse Riding Trek to Everest Base Camp also offers a chance to enjoy the stunning view of Mt. Everest from Kala Patthar (5,550 m). Khumbu Glacier is another highlight of this journey. The trek begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, providing jaw-dropping views of the Himalayas. Travelers will explore Sagarmatha National Park, home to diverse flora and fauna. Additionally, this trek allows participants to learn about the Sherpa lifestyle in the Khumbu region.
Riders will travel alongside the picturesque Dudh Koshi River and reach the famous town of Namche Bazaar. The trek also includes a visit to the renowned Hotel Everest View, the highest-altitude hotel in the world. Along the way, travelers will encounter Buddhist monasteries (Gumbas), stupas, traditional Sherpa villages and magnificent landscapes. Horseback riding to Everest Base Camp offers a unique and stylish way to experience the Himalayas.
Everest View Treks and Expedition ensures a memorable stay in Nepal. Experienced horse guides accompany trekkers throughout the journey, and accommodations are provided at the finest lodges along the route. Travelers also have the opportunity to savor authentic local cuisine.
Highlights of the Trip:
- Trek to the foot of Mt. Everest through breathtaking high-alpine landscapes
- Spectacular views of some of the most famous peaks in the Himalayas
- Explore the homeland of the Sherpa people, picturesque villages and ancient Buddhist monasteries including viewing the Yeti skull in Khumjung
- Stunning viewpoints, including Kala Patthar
- Trek along trails once followed by great mountaineers through dense rhododendron and pine forests
- Scenic mountain flights to and from Lukla
- Optional excursions including detours to Chhukung Ri
- Well-maintained trails and comfortable lodges with trekking routes that start and remain at higher altitudes
Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,338 m)
We will pick you up at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and transfer you to your hotel in Thamel. Overnight stay at a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu.
Kathmandu to Phakding: Drive, Flight and Horseback Trek
Early in the morning, you will be transferred from your hotel in Kathmandu to the domestic airport for the flight to Lukla, enjoying breathtaking views of the Himalayas along the way. The journey begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Ramechhap (approximately 4 hours), followed by a short scenic flight to Lukla (2,840 m, around 35 minutes). Upon arrival at Lukla Airport, you will meet your guide, porter, horseman and horses. The trek then begins on horseback, passing through the charming village of Cheplung and offering stunning views of Mt. Karyolung (6,511 m) en route to Phakding. The day concludes with an overnight stay at a lodge in Phakding (2,610 m), allowing you to rest and prepare for the journey ahead.
Phakding to Namche Bazaar: Horseback Ride Through Sagarmatha National Park
We ride from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) in approximately 5–6 hours on horseback. The journey follows the Dudh Koshi River as we enter Sagarmatha National Park via Monjo village. Riding through lush rhododendron forests, we arrive at the Sherpa capital of Namche Bazaar. This vibrant town welcomes travelers with bustling Sherpa settlements, restaurants and pubs. Overnight stay at a lodge in Namche Bazaar.
Acclimatization Day: Hike to Hotel Everest View
To acclimatize at high altitude, we spend the day in Namche Bazaar. We explore the town and learn about Sherpa culture by visiting local sites. Later, we hike to Hotel Everest View (3,880 m), the highest-altitude hotel in the region, which offers magnificent views of Mt. Everest (8,848.86 m) and surrounding snowy peaks. Overnight stay at a lodge in Namche Bazaar.
Namche Bazaar to Tengboche: Horseback Trek with Monastery Visit
We ride from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,860 m) in approximately 4–5 hours on horseback. Riding along the Dudh Koshi River, we enjoy stunning views of Everest (8,848.86 m), Lhotse (8,516 m), Ama Dablam (6,856 m) and other Himalayan peaks in the background. Along the way, we pass several small Himalayan villages before reaching Tengboche. We take a short tour of the ancient Tengboche Monastery, which offers outstanding views of the surrounding mountains. Overnight stay at a lodge in Tengboche.
Tengboche to Dingboche: Horseback Trek Through Himalayan Forest
We ride from Tengboche to Dingboche (4,410 m) in approximately 5–6 hours on horseback. Along the way, we cross several suspension bridges over the Imja Khola and pass through dense rhododendron and pine forests. We also encounter beautiful waterfalls, free-flowing streams and small Himalayan villages before arriving in Dingboche. Overnight stay at a lodge in Dingboche.
Acclimatization Day: Ride and Hike to Chhukhung
We take a day to acclimatize at high altitude. You have the option to hike or ride to Chhukhung, which offers mesmerizing views of Ama Dablam (6,856 m), Taboche (6,542 m), Island Peak (6,189 m), Lhotse (8,516 m), Makalu (8,463 m), Lobuche (6,145 m) and other surrounding peaks. After the side trip, we return to Dingboche. Overnight stay at a lodge in Dingboche.
Dingboche to Lobuche: Horseback Trek Along Khumbu Glacier
We ride from Dingboche to Lobuche (4,910 m) in approximately 5–6 hours on horseback. Riding along gentle trails, we pass the moraines of the beautiful Khumbu Glacier and encounter Chortens, ridges adorned with Buddhist prayer flags and monasteries before reaching Lobuche. Due to the high altitude, some trekkers may experience minor difficulties. From Lobuche, we enjoy superb panoramic views of Nuptse (7,861 m), Pumori (7,161 m), Khumbutse (6,636 m), Lingtren (6,749 m), Lobuche (6,145 m), Taboche (6,542 m), Ama Dablam (6,856 m) and other Himalayan peaks. Overnight stay at a lodge in Lobuche.
Lobuche to Gorakshep and Everest Base Camp: Horseback Trek to the Foot of Everest
We ride from Lobuche to Gorakshep (5,140 m) in approximately 2–3 hours on horseback, following the bank of the Khumbu Glacier and ascending a steep trail to Changri Glacier. From there, we descend to Gorakshep. In the afternoon, we ride to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m), the closest point on Everest (8,848.86 m) accessible without mountaineering equipment. At the base camp, we enjoy spectacular views of the Himalayas, including the Khumbu Icefall and surrounding peaks. After spending time at the camp, we return to Gorakshep along the same steep and icy trail. Overnight stay at a lodge in Gorakshep.
Kala Patthar Sunrise Hike and Gorakshep to Pheriche: Horseback Trek
Early in the morning, we hike to Kala Patthar (5,550 m) to witness the sunrise over the Himalayas. Kala Patthar is the best viewpoint to enjoy the beauty of Mt. Everest (8,848.86 m) alongside Lhotse (8,516 m), Pumori (7,161 m), Nuptse (7,861 m) and other surrounding peaks. After the sunrise, we return to Gorakshep and ride our horses downhill, passing the small villages of Lobuche and Thukla, until we reach Pheriche (4,240 m). Overnight stay at a lodge in Pheriche.
Pheriche to Namche Bazaar: Horseback Return Trek
We ride from Pheriche to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) in approximately 6–7 hours on horseback. Riding downhill, we follow the same route back to Tengboche, passing pasture lands and crossing several bridges to reach Pangboche. We then ride through dense forests of rhododendron to Tengboche. Continuing on the return journey to Namche Bazaar, we pass forests of rhododendron, pine and juniper and enter the small village of Kyangjuma. From Kyangjuma, we ride for a few hours until we reach Namche Bazaar. Overnight stay at a lodge in Namche Bazaar.
Namche Bazaar to Lukla: Final Horseback Trek
On the last day of the horse riding trek, we ride from Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,840 m) in approximately 6–7 hours. The journey follows the Dudh Koshi River to Jorsalle. We then pass through several lush Himalayan forests before reaching Phakding. From Phakding, we continue riding for a few more hours until we arrive in Lukla. Overnight stay at a lodge in Lukla.
Lukla to Kathmandu: Scenic Flight and Leisure
We take an early morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu (approximately 35 minutes), enjoying the scenic beauty of the Himalayas throughout the journey. Upon arrival, you will have leisure time to relax at the hotel or go shopping. Overnight stay at a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu.
Final Departure from Kathmandu
After breakfast at the hotel, we transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport to connect with your flight home or to your next destination.
Important Notice for Domestic Flights to and from Lukla:
To avoid air traffic congestion at Kathmandu Airport and ensure smooth flight operations, flights to Lukla will operate from Ramechhap (Manthali) Airport during the Spring season (March 23 to May 31, 2024) and the Autumn season (September 25 to November 30, 2024).
Includes/Excludes
- Airport / Hotel / Airport pick up & transfer by private Tourist vehicle.
- 2 nights deluxe accommodation in double/twin bed sharing basis with breakfast at 3* Hotel Kathmandu Guest House in Kathmandu as per above program.
- Full board Meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) with 3 times Tea & coffee
- Lodge to lodge accommodation during the trek.
- 1 experienced, helpful and friendly guide, porters (1 porter between 2 people), their food, accommodation, salary, equipment and their insurance.
- Sleeping Bag (Minus 30-40 Degree Celsius), Duffel Bag,
- Round Trip flight from Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu & Domestic airport taxes.
- Sagarmatha National Park permits and other necessary permits.
- 1 horse including horse man, his food, accommodation, salary and insurance.
- All the transportation by private car/van.
- First Aid Medical kit box
- Any meals (Lunch and Dinner) in Kathmandu other than breakfast.
- Travel insurance.
- International air fare to and from Nepal.
- Nepal Tourist Visa fee.
- Items and expenses of personal nature.
- Any kind of alcoholic drinks, cold drinks like Coke laundry, phone call, Internet, battery charging and hot shower.
- Personal Trekking Equipment (down jackets are available to hire or buy in Kathmandu).
- ny costs which arise due to a change of the itinerary, because of landslides, domestic flight delays, political disturbance, and strikes etc.
- Tips for guide, porters, driver..
Packing List for Horse Ride Trek to Everest Base Camp
- Waterproof and windproof trekking jacket and pants
- Warm insulated jacket (down or synthetic)
- Fleece or softshell jacket for layering
- Thermal base layers (top and bottom)
- Trekking shirts (quick-dry, long-sleeved recommended)
- Trekking pants (comfortable for riding and hiking)
- Warm hat, gloves, and scarf/buff
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Sun hat or cap
- Socks (thermal and trekking socks)
- Sturdy trekking boots suitable for hiking and riding
- Comfortable shoes or sandals for lodge stays
- Daypack (20–30 liters) for daily essentials
- Sleeping bag rated for -10°C to -15°C (if lodges do not provide)
- Trekking poles (optional but recommended for stability)
- Water bottles or hydration system (at least 2 liters)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Riding gloves (to prevent blisters)
- Long trousers suitable for riding
- Riding boots or comfortable sturdy shoes
- Small backpack or riding bag for essentials
- Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
- Personal toiletries
- Quick-dry towel
- Medications and personal first aid kit
- Camera or smartphone for photography
- Passport, travel documents and permits
- Gaiters for snow or muddy trails
- Crampons (only if trekking icy sections)
- Hand warmers or foot warmers
- Horses and experienced horsemen/handlers
- Porter assistance for heavy luggage
- Lodging and meals along the trail

