Mani Rimdu Festival Trek with Everest Base camp

Duration: 16 Days

The Everest region is prosperous in both natural and cultural wonders. Among top festivals celebrated in this region, the Mani Rimdu festival is one of them. It is worldly renowned and people come to witness it, which is celebrated for 19 days around the month of October-November. Adventure Club Trek has managed the itinerary so that the trekkers can observe the Mani Rimdu festival for the last 3 days, which is more important.

Mani Rimdu festival trek is an opportunity to explore the rich cultural aspect of the Khumbu region. it is celebrated in three monasteries: Tengboche, Chiwong and Thame monastery. Tengboche monastery is where we recommend you as it is one of the biggest monasteries in Everest and also lies on the Everest base camp trekking route. In this festival, people worship the Lord of compassion, Phakpa Chenrezig. Spiritual mask dances are performed. You attend the last 3 days' celebrations. The first day begins with the establishment of a Mandala, which is a symbolic representation of the universe. The second day of the Mani Rimdu festival begins with a mask dance by the monks. Lamas attend with their religious gowns and they also wear the painted mask. Different messages are given through the dance along with the theme of Buddhism. The final day of the 19 days celebration begins with Jinsak (the fire puja), which is a special attraction. Fire puja is done to avoid any type of harm. The final day performance is also to stop the enemy (devil) attack by hiding inside the mask. (Daikini dance is another performance by five priests with slow motion.

Adventure Club Trek adjoins the Everest Mani Rimdu festival with the Everest base camp trek. Then it becomes a good form of cultural attraction with adventure trekking. The sceneries of Mt. Everest (8848m), Lhotse, Makalu, Ama Dablam and the surrounding peaks allure you extremely. We also customize the trekking itinerary on your request. Please, contact us for more details.

A typical day on a trek: Live the Experience in words

A typical day on a trek organized by Adventure Club Trek will be exciting, informative, picturesque and lots of fun, of course! Our guides do not believe in hurrying the trekkers during the trip, they take a more leisurely approach which means you can take your time to enjoy the landscapes, take your photos and explore as much of the culture as you’d like. There are, of course, exceptions; times when guides have to hurry a team for safety reasons.

Trekking in the Himalaya is an experience like no other. Experienced, strong, qualified and friendly guides along with porters who carry your luggage make every day of this journey more feasible for you. You have to carry your small regular day pack on trekking days. We start each day with a wake-up morning cup of tea. Then, we pack our bags and sit for a locally made wholesome breakfast before setting off for the trek.

We typically start the day’s hike around 7:00 am-8:00 am, depending on the nature of the day’s trek and duration. We sit for lunch after walking for 3-4 hours. We usually take the lunch break around midday and resume after an hour’s rest. The afternoon trek is usually only up to 2-3 hours long meaning we reach our overnight stay before evening, so, we munch on extra dietary snacks till the dinner is ready. Once we have our dinner (around 6 pm) we are free to explore the adjacent places.

Before going to bed, the group discusses their experience. Later, the guide will brief the group on the next day’s trip plans. If it is too early to go to bed for you, we can engage in some games and fun conversations. Most trekkers prefer playing cards, reading books or learning some Nepalese. We wake up and start the cycle again.

Trip Highlights:

Scenic flight to and from Lukla
Popular Sherpa ethnic community Namche bazaar-main junction point to Everest expedition
Syangboche, the World's Highest Airport
Visit the World famous Tangbouche monastery
Kalapatthar view point Black Rock.
Experience Mt. Everest with closer proximity.
Observe the Mani Rimbu Festival being celebrated from ages.
Remarkable views of Khumbu Ice fall
Everest Base Camp and walking on the Khumbu glacier

Outline Itinerary:

Day 01: Arrival day in Kathmandu (1,300m)
Day 02: Fly to Lukla (2,804m) and trek to Phakding (2,610m) : 40 minutes flight.
Day 03: Trek Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m) : 5 -6 hours
Day 04: Acclimatization day at Namche Bazaar
Day 05: Trek Namche to Tengboche (3,867m) : 5 -6 hours
Day 06: Observe the Mani Rimbu Festival
Day 07: Observe the Mani Rimbu Festival
Day 08: Observe the Mani Rimbu Festival
Day 09: Trek Tengbouche to Dingboche (4,358m) : 5-6 hrs
Day 10: Acclimatization day at Dingboche
Day 11: rek Dingboche to Lobuche (4,928m) : 5-6 hours
Day 12: Trek Gorak Shep (5,170m) visit Everest Base Camp (5,364m) then return to Gorak Shep : 8-9 hours
Day 13: Climb Gorak Shep to KalaPattha (5,555m) and trek back to Pheriche (4,200m) : 8 -9 hours
Day 14: Trek Pheriche to Namche Bazaar (3,440m) : 6-7 hours
Day 15: Trek Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,800m): 6-7 hours
Day 16: Fly back to Kathmandu : 40 minutes flight
Day 17: Farewell, flights home

Customize Trip Print and PDF

Day 01: Arrival day in Kathmandu (1,300m)

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), you will be welcomed by a representative from Adventure Club Trek. After sorting out your custom formalities (visa and so on), you will be then transferred to your respective hotel in Adventure Club Trek’s private vehicle and give you some time to freshen up. After this, you will attend an orientation about your trek led by the trekking leader over a welcome dinner.
Day 02: Fly to Lukla (2,804m) and trek to Phakding (2,610m) : 40 minutes flight.

Early morning transfer to the domestic airport for about 40 minutes scenic flight to the tiny airstrip at Lukla (2,800m), a getaway destination from where our trek starts. This is an amazing air route in the world surrounded by high mountain peaks. After reaching Lukla we will have time for tea while our guide sorts out and divide the load baggage to be carried by porters. We begin our trek through the pretty well-off Sharpa village and crosses several tributary streams and we have some tantalizing views before reaching the small settlement of Phakding (2,650m). We could get warmed up for some acclimatizing with a short hike to a nearby monastery or just stroll around to get a feel of the land.
Day 03: Trek Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m) : 5 -6 hours

We begin the trek continually uphill from the Dudh Koshi valley to Monjo and make an entry record at the Sagarmatha National Park counter. It is a UNESCO world heritage site in the Everest region. while walking to Namche Bazaar, we have an opportunity to have a glimpse of the world’s tallest peak, Mt. Everest (8848m). It is a steep climb to reach the Sherpa town. It is a famous trade center of the Khumbu region, including food items and trekking /mountaineering equipment.
Day 04: Acclimatization day at Namche Bazaar

Spending an extra day is a great idea to acclimatize and walk around to discover the lively Sherpa culture. Sherpas are world-renowned Himalayan leaders and also forward in mountaineering. After breakfast, we head towards Khumjung and Everest view hotel. Khumjung is also known as the Sherpa capital, which is densely populated and we can explore the monasteries and Mani walls. The superb hike lets us a chance to view the Himalayan wonders, including Mt. Everest, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, and Lhotse. Having enough snaps, we return to Namche and rest.
Day 05: Trek Namche to Tengboche (3,867m) : 5 -6 hours

Today, we begin the trek to Tengboche. As we walk in the high altitude region, we need to be aware of the altitude sickness. We walk gradually at the underneath of the fabulous peaks like Ama Dablam. Phunki Tenga can be a lunch point, near the River. With a splendid time there, we begin to ascend the Tengboche monastery. Depending on your interest, we can visit the monastery and witness the evening prayer or wait till the morning of the following day to observe the Morning Prayer.
Day 06: Observe the Mani Rimbu Festival

Welcome to the Mani Rimdu festival, the most renowned festival in the Khumbu region. It is celebrated over 19 days. We attend at the last 3 days ceremony. It begins with bless giving by the monks to the public, singing, and dancing. People establish Sand Mandala and Tormas made from flour. Mandala is a symbolic abode of the Lord. Wong's celebration takes place on this day, which is for empowerment. Concluding today’s celebration.
Day 07: Observe the Mani Rimbu Festival

The second day of the Mani Rimdu festival begins with a mask dance by the monks. Lamas attend with their religious gowns and they also wear the painted mask. Different messages are given through the dance along with the theme of Buddhism. Ser Kyam is another religious dance and the dancers are known as Tantric magicians. Various musical devices are played during the dance performance.
Day 08: Observe the Mani Rimbu Festival

This is a final day of the 19 days celebration and the third day of our observation. Jinsak (the fire puja) is a special attraction. Fire puja is done to avoid any type of harm. The final day performance is also to stop the enemy (devil) attack by hiding inside the mask. (Remember: Tengboche monastery was once caught into the fire and destroyed. The current monastery was re-established). Daikini dance is another performance by five priests with a slow motion. The rest of the singing and dancing program runs the whole night. Back to the lodge and rest.
Day 09: Trek Tengbouche to Dingboche (4,358m) : 5-6 hrs

The trail from Tengboche leads downhill through a forest of conifers, birch, and rhododendrons. The trail passes the nunnery at Debouche to cross a wooden bridge over the rushing Imja Khola, whose valley we now follow. We begin to climb again, passing some beautifully carved walls. The trail then enters Pangboche, at 3900m, the highest permanent settlement in this valley. We are above the tree line now. Following a ledge above the river, the trail crosses a wooden bridge at the confluence of the Khumbu and Imja Kholas. A short steep climb brings us to Dingboche, at 4530m. Dingboche is a summer settlement and here the great peaks of Ama Dablam, the ridge of Nuptse-Lhotse, Tawoche and Chalotse surround us.
Day 10: Acclimatization day at Dingboche

The altitude is increasing and we need another acclimatizing day. We have a normal start without a packed lunch. We set out for hiking to Chhukung village, which is dotted by few houses and surrounded by the potatoes fields. People live here only in summer. We enjoy the high altitude lunch and trek down to Dingboche for overnight stay viewing the stunning Ama Dablam and Lhotse.
Day 11: rek Dingboche to Lobuche (4,928m) : 5-6 hours

After breakfast, we begin to climb up to Lobuche. First, we ascend to Phalang Karpa and to Dugla, where we stop for lunch. If you receive the altitude symptoms, better to stay here or if you are ok, then we walk to Lobuche. The accommodation can be crowded, but we are almost one day to reach our final destination.
Day 12: Trek Gorak Shep (5,170m) visit Everest Base Camp (5,364m) then return to Gorak Shep : 8-9 hours

It’s a heavy day to walk gradually to Gorakshep and to Everest base camp. The trail is not that technical, but the thin air region makes us gasping. We reach Gorakshep via Italian Research Center and Lobuche Pass. Reaching to Gorakshep, we have lunch and put our belongings in the hotel room. Then we hike to the Everest base camp with the views of Pumori, Nuptse, and other surrounding peaks. The trail is dotted with the rocky moraine and reaches to the tented town where the expedition groups stay. Spending some time with snaps, we retrace to Gorakshep and stay there.
Day 13: Climb Gorak Shep to KalaPattha (5,555m) and trek back to Pheriche (4,200m) : 8 -9 hours

Getting up early in the morning, we prepare for the climb to Kalapatthar. It is located at 5555 meters altitude. Kalapatthar is a superb viewpoint of various mountains including the East Makalu, Ama Dablam, Pumori, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Cho Oyu along with the Khumbu Glacier. Descending to Gorakshep, we have lunch and descend to Pheriche.
Day 14: Trek Pheriche to Namche Bazaar (3,440m) : 6-7 hours

Following the trail that we used for ascending, we reach Pangboche then Tenbuche and finally to the Namche Bazaar. It is pretty much a long walk but the excursion is fantastic.
Day 15: Trek Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,800m): 6-7 hours

On the last day of our trekking, we walk down through the steep trail and make an exit from the Sagarmatha National Park and walk pleasantly towards the Dudh Koshi River. Crossing various suspension bridges, we walk gradually to Lukla. This evening is exciting to celebrate the successful trip, sharing with the crew.
Day 16: Fly back to Kathmandu : 40 minutes flight

We start our 13th day on the EBC trek early in the morning with a hearty breakfast to get to the Lukla airport to board our flight to Kathmandu. Flights depend on weather conditions; so, you might experience some delays. However, in case of any delays or emergencies, your guide will do his best to make situations more favorable to you. Once you land in Kathmandu, we will take you to your hotel where you can rest. Later in the evening our company will treat you to a farewell dinner and receive your feedback.
Day 17: Farewell, flights home

Adventure Club Trek will manage a farewell drive to the international airport for your final flight departure.Meeting you and serving you was a wonderful experience over the weeks. We are sure you enjoyed a wonderful holiday in beautiful Nepal. We hope you will remember us in the years ahead.

Cost Includes

Arrival and departure transfer by private tourist vehicle
Double or twin-sharing accommodation in a three-star hotel in Kathmandu including breakfast.
Best available twin sharing lodge for accommodation during the trek.
Three daily meals with tea/coffee (breakfast, lunch and dinner) during the trek
Government licensed, English speaking guides trained in wilderness first aid
Round-trip airfare between Kathmandu and Lukla including airport departure tax
All ground transportation on a comfortable private vehicle as per the itinerary
Welcome and farewell dinner.
Snacks of seasonal fruits during the trek
Everest National Park permits and TIMS permit for trekking.
Assistant trekking guides walking with the group to support as necessary (1 assistant guide for 4 trekkers)
Porters to carry your luggage during the trek (1 porter for 2 trekkers)
Staff costs including their salary,food, transportation, accommodation domestic airfare and medicine.
Insurance covering all staff and porters as per state law
Down jacket and sleeping bag ( to be returned after trip completion)
Complimentary Adventure Club Trek T-shirt, and trekking map
Duffle bag for trekking
Medical kit (carried by your trek leader)
Travel and rescue arrangement (helicopter evacuation is available if needed - at an additional cost)
All government and local taxes.

Cost Excludes

Nepal visa (USD 25 for 15 days and USD 40 for 30 days).
Hot shower during the trekking.
Insurance with helicopter evacuation.
Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu.
International air fares / flights (fares and flights can be arranged upon the request).
Personal expenses (alcoholic drinks, bottled water, cold drinks).
Personal travel insurance and medical bills.
Excess baggage charge(s)
Personal trekking equipment.
Tips for guide, porters, and drivers (tipping is expected, but it is not mandator).

Flight Delay in Kathmandu and Lukla

The unpredictability of the weather in mountain areas directly affects the flights to and from Lukla. The Twin Otter planes that are used for transport from and to Lukla are reasonably reliable in good weather conditions. But, the flights may be delayed or canceled due to technical problems and extreme weather conditions.To ensure you stay on your schedule in case the Twin Otter flight cancels or delays too far, we can charter you a helicopter. While the helicopter can fly at the visibility of 15,000m, the Twin Otters require 5,000m visibility, according to Nepal Civil Aviation rules.

You can pay for the helicopter in US cash, credit cards or traveler’ cheques directly to our Kathmandu office. We provide a receipt for the payment which you can present to claim the amount back from your travel insurance company. Helicopter charges range from a minimum of US$500 to a maximum of US$2500. Also, we recommend you land in Kathmandu a day before we start the trek. You have enough time to buy trekking gears and beat off the jet lag. Having a few days extra left after your trek is also an excellent way to ensure you don’t miss your international flight in case of difficulties during the trek which might lengthen your trip. It also gives you a way to beat the flight cancellation to or from Lukla in case of severe weather.

Note: Your safety is of the utmost concern whilst you are traveling with Adventure Club Trek. We will make every effort possible to follow the original itinerary but we reserve the right to change that itinerary if a segment of it becomes a safety issue. Certain mountain regions are remote, natural disasters can happen, weather conditions can decline and there can be illness or an injury. To avoid dangerous situations we may occasionally have to make changes to the itinerary to ensure everyone’s safety. That having been said, Adventure Club Trek will strive to provide you with the best possible trekking experience and to keep your safety our number one priority. In case, the flight delay/cancellation happens at the start of the trip and it goes so long that it disturbs your onward travel schedule, you are free to choose an alternative trip: such a trek in the Annapurna, Langtang, or any other regions.

Pre-Trip Meeting

Prior to all the treks and expeditions, Adventure Club Trek hosts a pre-trip meeting in Kathmandu. The primary purpose of the meeting is to provide an opportunity for individuals to ask questions about the forthcoming trek and to introduce other team members. The meeting covers topics as diverse as personal equipment and acclimatization and usually involves a hike and some skills training. Pre-trip meeting is very important in order to have a better preparation of the trekking.

Fixed Departure Dates and Cost

The quoted costs are per person but don't include International flights if you are a single person and want to be in a group you can join our fixed departure schedule if the schedule dates are not suitable for you, please contact us, and we will be happy to customize our trips to suit your needs. If any individuals/group don't want to join our other group, we can comply with your wishes and requirements. We are ground operators Himalayan destinations and can arrange your trip to suit your dates and choices.