The journey from Lukla to Phakding, situated in the lower part of the trail, is especially rewarding due to the lush greenery and vegetation, including trees, that abound in the area
Phakding, located north of Lukla in the valley of the Dudh Kosi River, is a popular overnight stop for those embarking on the journey to Everest Base Camp. Standing at 2,610 m (8,500 ft) tall, it is an ideal starting point for acclimatization due to its altitude. The warm and friendly locals add to the tourists' delight. There are several guesthouses in the village, and strolling along the beautiful Kosi River is a pleasant activity in the morning and evening.
The Phakding village trek is a hidden gem in the Khumbu region, offering excellent trekking opportunities through various landscapes. With only 70–75 homes, Phakding serves as the starting point for many Everest treks, but it also offers a variety of cuisines and local bars (Bhatti) serving regional liquor.
The route to Phakding begins from Lukla, the main overpass for trekkers and travellers on the Gokyo Ri route. The village has become popular due to its location along the Everest Base Camp Trekking Route and is one of the best rest spots in the Everest region. Phakding provides a range of inexpensive to premium teahouses for trekkers looking for accommodation.
As you make your way toward the settlement of Phakding, you will pass a few suspension bridges that offer stunning views of the mountains and perennial rivers. The last thing you encounter before reaching the main residential area is the Dudh Koshi River, one of the highest rivers in the world.
The village's major attractions include the sound of bells ringing and the sight of herds of yaks, horses, and donkeys, which transport cargo to and from Lukla. The Nepali people's resilience at such high altitudes is evident as you trek from Lukla to Phakding. They cultivate their crops, including lettuce, potatoes, onions, and carrots. The fields offer a beautiful view and are enjoyable to stroll over. Phakding's small businesses play a crucial role in supporting and promoting tourism in the Sagarmatha Zone.
How do I get to Phakding?
Phakding is a charming Sherpa settlement comprised of stone homes and teahouses. To get there, one must first take a flight from Kathmandu to the airport in Lukla before embarking on the trek from Lukla to Phakding. This trek is a rejuvenating experience, winding through a rhododendron forest, rural communities, and suspension bridges. However, it is important to exercise caution when crossing suspension bridges with yaks or donkeys.
The journey from Lukla to Phakding typically takes around four to five hours, and most trekkers spend their first night in Phakding before continuing on to Gokyo Lakes or Everest Base Camp. Phakding Village is the starting point for most treks in the Khumbu region and is situated south of Namche Bazaar and north of Lukla.
While trekkers can opt to begin their Everest region hike from Jiri or Phelps and skip the Lukla flight, this entails taking a car from Kathmandu to Jiri or Phelps. However, most trekkers choose to take the traditional route via Lukla and Phakding.
Flights from Kathmandu to Lukla Airport typically depart in the morning, giving travellers the entire day to embark on a simple trek. The journey from Lukla to Phakding, spanning 7.5 kilometers (4.6 miles), takes several hours, so most trekkers prefer to spend the night in Phakding instead of Lukla.
During the short trek from Lukla to Phakding, trekkers are treated to stunning mountain views and lush vegetation. The pathway is primarily downhill and consists of rocky, dirt, and stone terrain. There are also numerous stops along the way for food and drink.
The Best Season to Travel
If you're planning a trek to Phakding village, it's recommended to visit during the peak seasons of spring and fall. These months are generally the busiest for trekking in Nepal, including the Everest region, due to the favorable weather conditions and mild temperatures. Additionally, the stunning views of the mountains and surrounding landscapes are at their best during this time of the year.
Traveling is an unforgettable experience, despite the potential cost and time involved. The journey from Lukla to Phakding, situated in the lower part of the trail, is especially rewarding due to the lush greenery and vegetation, including trees, that abound in the area. The stunning views of distant mountains add to the overall appeal of this breathtaking region.
photo credit: swotahtravel
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