Nepal Now / Stories / Archive 2015
Explore the mountains of Khumbu Nepal
By Isha Balla ·
Published· Stories
Khumbu is a sub-region of Solukhumbu district. Khumbu region is situated on the northeastern side of Nepal. It lies on the Nepalese side of Mount Everest. Khumbu is one of three subregions of the main Khambu (specially Thulung) and Sherpa settlement of the Himalaya, the other two being Solu and Pharak. The major highlights of Khumbu Region are : Sagarmatha National Park,Namche Bazaar as well as the as the villages of Thame,Khumjung, Pangboche, Pheriche, Kunde and the famous Buddhist monastery at Tengboche. The Khumbu’s elevation ranges from 3,300 metres (11,000 feet) to the 8,848 m (29,029 ft) summit of Mount Everest, the highest place on Earth.
The Everest Region is bascially referred to as the Khumbu Region includes the Sagarmatha National Park (above Monju) and the Sagarmatha National Park Buffer Zone (between Lukla and Monju).
There are tons of villages dispersed throughout Khumbu. Some of the most important ones are listed below
- Ghat – situated between Lukla and Monju
- Khumjung – A must go place if you are staying at Namche sacred cave.
- Khunde – Consists of Khumbu’s main western medicine clinic.
- Lukla – Consists of airport
- Monju – good place to stay for a night after arriving at Lukla
- Namche Bazaar – the official Sherpa Capital; Very developed
- Pangboche – picturesque village; beautiful monasteries
- Phortse – traditional village
- Tengboche – monasteries
Everest Region is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Nepal. It is renowned for its majestic mountain peaks and the commendable hospitality of the inhabitants(Sherpas). Though the trail is hard and grueling, the journey is worth every step. There are bountiful of places to retreat yourself along the way. The locals are extremely helpful and will guide you throughout the way. Most Sherpas under 50 can understand basic english. The best times to visit Khumbu region are between March – May and September – November. April and early May is a good time to see the hedgerows and trees bursting into bloom, with Rhododendrons, in particular, adding a spectacular splash of color to the landscape.
You can get in here via plane or on foot. There are numerous flights flying the Kathmandu – Lukla route, though with a much reduced service during the off – season months. However, if you are up for trekking, Buses are available from Kathmandu to Jiri. From Jiri, it is a 6 days walk to Namche Bazaar.
The Khumbu region is the epicenter of Nepal’s Sherpa culture. This video takes you inside with a meditative look at the community.