The second day of the Everest Base Camp Trek is an exciting continuation of your journey through the stunning landscapes of the Khumbu region. On this day, you’ll trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar, passing through several significant points of interest along the way such as Bengkar village, Monjo Village, Jorsalle and Hillary Bridge.
Monjo Village: Beginning of the trek from Phakding village from the elevation of approximately 2,610 meters, Everest Base Camp trek continue along the Dudh Koshi River. Walking only about 30 minutes, you will have memorizing view of mt. Thamserku. Crossing several suspension bridges and ascending gradually. The trail goes through the villages of Toktok, Bengkar, Chumoa and soon, you’ll arrive at Monjo Village. Before Namche Bazaar, Monjo is the biggest settlement where you’ll need to register at the Sagarmatha National Park Checkpoint. At this checkpoint, you obtain your trekking permit, and it marks the entrance to the Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Lunch at Jorsalle Village: Continuing the trek, the trek pass through the picturesque Jorsalle Village. This is an ideal spot to take a break and enjoy a meal. Many trekkers stop here for lunch, and you can savor traditional Nepali dishes or international cuisine. Jorsalle is also the last village before arriving in Namche Bazaar.
Hillary Bridge: After a satisfying lunch, you’ll cross the iconic Hillary Bridge, which is a suspension bridge named after Sir Edmund Hillary, one of the first two men to successfully summit Mt. Everest in 1953. The bridge offers spectacular views of the Dudh Koshi River below and the surrounding landscape along with the view of Mt. Tawache. It’s an excellent place to capture some memorable photos.
First Sighting of Mt. Everest: As you approach Namche Bazaar, you’ll ascend a steep hill and pass through a dense forest filled with rhododendron and pine trees. It’s on this uphill stretch that you may have your first glimpse of Mount Everest, the world’s tallest peak. Weather permitting, this moment is awe-inspiring and a source of great motivation for trekkers.
Namche Bazaar: Finally, you’ll reach Namche Bazaar, the largest and most well-known village in the Khumbu region. Nestled in a natural amphitheater, Namche offers breathtaking views of several Himalayan peaks, including Thamserku and Kongde Ri. This bustling market town is a hub for trekkers and climbers, offering a variety of amenities such as cafes, bakeries, shops, and lodges. Upon arriving in Namche, you’ll check into your teahouse or lodge for the night, and you can take some time to explore the town. In the evening, you can observe breathtaking sunset view of Mt. Thamserku and Kusumkhangru. Staying in Namche provides, an excellent opportunity to acclimatize to the higher altitude before continuing of Everest Base Camp trek further into the Everest region.
The second day of the Everest Base Camp Trek is filled with diverse landscapes, cultural experiences, and a sense of adventure as you approach the heart of the Khumbu region, Namche Bazaar. It’s a day that will leave you inspired by the natural beauty and the rich history of the area.
Please read our Third Day highlights of Everest Base Camp Trek.