Things to do in Solukhumbu
Discover the best attractions and experiences Solukhumbu has to offer
Historic Monuments
In Solukhumbu, ancient monasteries and historic gateway towns tell the story of Sherpa culture and mountaineering history.
Lukla Airport (Tenzing-Hillary Airport)
The high-altitude gateway to Everest adventures; famous for its dramatic approach and notable place in Himalayan climbing history.
Namche Bazaar
A historic trading hub in the valley, where traders and trekkers have long gathered for supplies and stories.
Pangboche Monastery
One of the oldest monasteries in the Khumbu, perched above the valley with rich legends.
Museums
Small museums and visitor centers showcase Sherpa culture, park conservation, and Everest history.
Sherpa Museum, Namche Bazaar
A compact collection of stories and artifacts illustrating Sherpa life and Himalayan exploration.
Sagarmatha National Park Visitor Centre, Monjo
Exhibits about the park's ecology, geology, and the Everest region's conservation efforts.
Religious Monuments
The region is dotted with Buddhist monasteries and sacred sites set high above the valleys.
Tengboche Monastery
A revered hillside monastery with sweeping mountain views and annual Buddhist ceremonies.
Thame Monastery
A historic monastery known for its spiritual lineage and scenic village setting.
Pangboche Monastery
One of the oldest monasteries in the Khumbu, perched above the valley with rich legends.
National & Theme Parks
The heart of Solukhumbu lies in Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its towering peaks and glaciers.
Sagarmatha National Park
Nepal's premier high-altitude national park with dramatic landscapes and rare wildlife.
Gokyo Lakes and Valley
A serene high-altitude lake system offering spectacular views of Cho Oyu and the surrounding peaks.
Everest View Trek (short route into the park)
A lighter trek option to admire Everest and Khumbu scenery without a long expedition.
Neighborhoods
Vibrant alpine settlements along the trail offer culture, markets, and mountain-time rhythms.
Namche Bazaar
The bustling Sherpa market town and acclimatization stop with shops and cafes.
Lukla
Gateway to the Everest region, home to the famous airstrip and a starting point for treks.
Monjo
A small village near the park entrance, a common stop on the Everest trail.
Free Things to Do
Simple, memorable experiences that don't require a guide or an entry fee.
Walk along the Dudh Koshi river trails
Enjoy the river sounds and mountain views as you wander between villages.
Explore Namche Bazaar on foot
Stroll the markets and tea houses to observe village life.
Sunrise or sunset viewpoints along the trek
Capture iconic Himalayan light from suitable viewpoints along the trails.
Gastronomy
Culinary staples of the Khumbu: hearty, warming dishes to sustain treks.
Dal Bhat Tarkari
A comforting Nepalese staple served with rice, vegetables, and lentils.
Momo
Steamed dumplings filled with vegetables or meat, a trekking classic.
Thukpa
Noodle soup perfect for cold mornings and high-altitude days.
Butter Tea
A salty, buttery tea that warms you after a chilly morning trek.
Nightlife
Evenings in the tea houses and lodges offer quiet camaraderie and mountain ambiance.
Sherpa tea-house evenings
Relaxed nights with warm drinks, stories, and sometimes small performances.
Stargazing from clear Himalayan skies
Calm, dust-free nights offer brilliant stars above the peaks.
Entertainment
Cultural experiences and simple performances frequently await in villages.
Sherpa cultural demonstrations
Short performances and traditional songs that showcase local customs.
Monastic chants and prayer circles
Witness peaceful Buddhist rituals in village monasteries.
Tibetan-influenced crafts and textiles
Observe or purchase locally made crafts at markets.
Sports
Active adventures at altitude, from trekking itineraries to peaks.
Everest Base Camp Trek
A legendary trekking route through Namche, Tengboche, Dingboche, and Gorak Shep.
Gokyo Ri hike
A high-altitude ridge offering panoramic views of Cho Oyu and Everest.
Kala Patthar sunrise hike
Iconic sunrise vantage point with dramatic Himalayan silhouettes.
Off the Track
Escape the crowds with less-visited trails and pull-back-the-curtains experiences.
Helicopter sightseeing flight near Everest
A spectacular air journey offering close-up views of peaks.
Pikey Peak trek (less-crowded alternative)
A peaceful ridge trek with sweeping mountain panoramas.
Thame village exploration
Visit a traditional Sherpa settlement known for alpine culture.