Today we hit the trail, first hiking down to the village of Phakding on the banks of the Dudh Kosi River. It’s an undulating trail ending up around 250 meters (820 feet) lower than our start point in Lukla. For the most part, we’ll be amongst the trees, and we’ll get regular glimpses across the fertile valleys of the region. These valleys are refreshed and replenished annually during the monsoon season, and so are rich with plant life, especially the colorful rhododendron, Nepal’s national flower. We’ll pass by local porters, and other trekkers, and pack animals along our trek to Jorsalle today, this trail form part of an important trade route, used to move supplies around the region, and so is a well-established track. As we approach the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park, we’ll be greeted with sensational views of massive snow-capped Himalayan peaks with names you’ll soon become familiar with such as Thamserku and Kangtega. Sagarmatha National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to a wide range of plants and animals. Himalayan tahr (a type of wild goat), musk deer and Himalayan monals (an extremely colorful member of the pheasant family) are known to frequent this area, so keep your eyes peeled and a camera handy if you’re a keen photographer.
Elevation: Jorsalle - 2750 meters (9022 feet)
Nirvana Lodge, Jorsalle (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Hiking: 13.7 kilometers (8.5 miles), 6-7 hours, elevation + 140 metres (459 feet), elevation - 250 meters (820 feet)