Green Getaways

Mani Rimdu Trek in Everest

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Mani Rimdu Trek in Everest

Duration : 13 Days
The Price : $ 1,899
Max People :   12
Start Location :  Kathmandu

Overview

The Mani Rimdu Trek in Everest spans a captivating 13 days, blending the allure of a unique festival celebrated by Buddhists in the Himalayas with the mesmerizing landscapes and rich culture of the region, marking the founding of Buddhism by Guru Rinpoche Padmasambhava. This extraordinary trek unfolds against the backdrop of grand celebrations held at three distinct monasteries in Tengboche, Thame, and Chiwong.

The festivities are brought to life through masked dances and Tantric rituals performed by Buddhist monks, drawing in huge crowds from the surroundings areas to partake in the jubilant atmosphere. Numerous treks are strategically organized to coincide with the Mani Rimdu festival, offering participants the chance to witness and engage in the vibrant culture traditions of the Sherpa communities in the Everest region.

As you embark on the Mani Rimdu trek in Everest, you’ll traverse the breathtaking landscapes to reach Tengboche and immerse yourself in the local celebrations. This trek provides a unique window into the natural and cultural facets of the Everest region. Alomg the journey, be prepared to feast your eyes on majestic mountain vistas, including the iconic peaks of Everest (8848 m), Lhotse (8501 m), Ama Dablam (6856 m), Pumori (7165 m), and Nuptse (7861 m).

Moreover, the Mani Rimdu trek in Everest unfolds a wonderful expedition, allowing you to explore Namche Bazaar, the bustling capital of the Sherpas. Here, you’ll encounter the heart of Sherpa culture and traditions, adding a layer of depth to your Himalayan adventure. In essence, the Mani Rimdu trek in Everest is a holistic experience that seamlessly waves together the natural grandeur of the Everest region with the cultural richness of its inhabitants.

This year (2024), the Mani Rimdu Festival falls in 15th, 16th and 17th of November. We advise our fellow travelers to join for this incredible adventure! 

Schedule Details

Day 01: Namaste in Kathmandu

Once you land in Kathmandu, our representatives will be there waiting for you to meet and greet. Later, you will be transferred to your hotel where you can rest and freshen up. In the afternoon, you will meet your tour leader and other members of Green Getaways. Here, you will have the opportunity to ask for any last minute questions regarding your holiday and itinerary.  

In the evening, we will host a welcome dinner in a cultural restaurant where you can witness cultural music and dance of Nepal. Here, you will meet your tour leader and tune up for your upcoming days in Nepal. 

Meals: Welcome Dinner
Accommodation: Malla Hotel

Day 02: First day in Mountains

Embark on your Everest adventure with a picturesque flight to Lukla, scheduled for the early morning. There will be a representative from Green Getaways awaiting your arrival in Lukla, from where you begin the trek.

Upon landing in Lukla, the gateway to your Everest trek, the journey begins with a trek to Phakding. This initial leg a delightful and easy 3-hour walk, guiding you through pastoral lands and beautiful Sherpa communities.

The trek culminates in reaching the entrance of the national park, marking the start of your Everest journey. Even at this early stage of the trek, the allure of the surroundings in sure to captivate you, setting the tone for the awe-inspiring experiences awaiting you on this remarkable journey. 

Meals: Breakfast 

Accommodation: Local Lodge 

Trekking duration: 3 to 4 hours 

Day 03: Trek to Sherpa Capital-Namche 3440m

Embark on an easy trek to Monjo today, winding through pine tress with a backdrop of distant snow-capped peaks. After lunch, the journey continues through a wooded valley, crossing a high suspension bridge before the gradual climb to Namche begins. The reward? Your first glimpse of Mount Everest. Explore Namche, soaking in Sherpa culture. The trek unveils Himalayan flora and fauna in Sagarmatha National Park, with alpine landscapes and yak pastures adding to the day's delight. 

Meals: Breakfast 

Accommodation: Local Lodge 

Trekking duration: 5 to 6 hours 

Day 04: Explore the Namche Bazaar, Acclimatization day

Namche Bazaar, the bustling hub of the Everest region, offers all modern amenities-from internet and ATMs to restaurants, bars and cafes. Your guide will navigate through the streets and markets of, providing insight into the traditional Sherpa way of life.

Immerse yourself in Himalayan cuisine and witness the daily activities of the locals. For independent exploration, consider hiking horses. 

Embark on a trip to Khumjung and Kunde, charming villages supported by the Sir Edmund Hillary Foundation. The 4-hour hike is not just a scenic adventure but an essential acclimatization step in high-altitude terrain. Explore the unique blend of culture, community, and breathtaking landscapes during the enriching excursion.

Meals: Breakfast 

Accommodation: Local Lodge 

Optional hiking duration: 4 hours 

Day 05: Trek to Tengboche 3870m

Commence your day with an early morning breakfast at the hotel. The trek to Phunki for lunch is a straightforward and leisurely journey through rhododendron forests, allowing you to appreciate the untamed beauty of nature. 

Following lunch, your path ascends towards Tengboche, home to the largest monastery in the Everest region. The uphill climb adds a challenge to your trek, but the reward is grand. Upon reaching Tengboche, settle into the local lodge and relish the evening to explore at your own pace, surrounding by majestic views. 

Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Tengboche Monastery, situated at an altitude of 3870m. This spiritual haven welcomes you with a serene ambience, offering views of the Khumbu valley villages and stunning mountain vistas. The fluttering prayer flags adds to the tranquil atmosphere, blessing your Everest journey with the moments of happiness and peace. 

Meals: Breakfast 

Accommodation: Local Lodge 

Optional hiking duration: 5 to 6 hours 

Day 06 to 08: Mani Rimdu Festival Celebration

The initiation of the Mani Rimdu Festival unfolds on its first day with the meticulous construction of the Sand Mandala and Wong. Using colored sands, intricate designs emerge surrounded by sharp defensive weapons representing divine forces. Within the Mandala rests the contained representing Mani Rimdu pills, deemed as spiritual medicine, places at its center. Symbolizing the palace of the lord of dance, Chenpo, the Mandala becomes a focal point. The Buddha of Kindness stature takes precendence, and as mantras are chanted, the belief persists that kindness flows into the Mandala and the Mani Rilwu pills during meditation. This compassion is released from the Mandala, blessing all attendees of the Mani Rimdu festival.

The festival's second day showcases mesmerizing dances, depicting triumph over symbolic demons. The thematic dances embody the struggle between positive energies and demons, conveying Buddhists teaching on various levels. Monks, believed to enter a trance during the dances, transform into godlike beings. These sacred dances, reserved solely for Mani Rimdu, are not performed for ordinary entertainment purposes due to their revered nature. 

Concluding the festival, the third day features the Fire Puja, conducted in the courtyard. This ritual is a homeage to Agni, the god of fire, and the Gods of the Mandala, seeking to dispel harm in the world. The envisioned harm dissolves into the grains and butter burned during the Fire Puja. Post ceremony, the Sand Mandala in the temple is meticulously dismantled, and the sand is offered to the Snake Gods (Nagas). With this sacred act, the captivating Mani Rimdu Festival concludes. 

Meals: Breakfast 

Accommodation: Local Lodge 

Day 09: Trek back to Namche

Embark on another segment of your journey with a gradual descent through sparse forest, leading you to the valley bottom where the Imja Khola river awaits. Following the river's course, the path involves a slight ascent through the forest until you reach Konjima. Beyond Konjima, the terrain levels out, offering a relatively flat stretch leading back to Namche. 

Encounter the thrill of adventure as you traverse a Suspension Bridge over the Imja Khola. Remarkably, this suspension bridge stands as the tallest of its kind in the region, providing a unique and exhilarating experience amidst the breathtaking landscapes of your trek. 

Meals: Breakfast 

Accommodation: Local Lodge 

Trekking Duration: 5 to 6 hours 

Day 10: Trek back to Lukla

Commence your day with breakfast and set forth on the trail back to Lukla via a scenic mountain path. You cross Banker and reach Phakding for a lunch. The final stretch involves a last climb with a positive elevation of 200 meters.

As you bid farewell to your trekking team, savor your last night in the mountainous embrace. Along the way to Lukla, take a moment to visit the Kyongma Monastery. This spiritual haven holds its own aura of divinity and tranquility, serving as a resting point for many trekkers. Absorb the serene atmosphere and reflect on the memories of your remarkable journey before reaching Lukla. 

Meals: Breakfast 

Accommodation: Local Lodge 

Trekking Duration: 5 to 6 hours 

Day 11: Fly back to Kathmandu

Following breakfast, embark on a short but spectacular flight back to Kathmandu, offering breathtaking views of the mountains to conclude your trek. 

Upon arrival  at Kathmandu airport, a transfer will take you to your hotel where you can rest or indulge in the rejuvenating spas in Thamel. In the evening, relish a delight

Upon arrival at Kathmandu airport, a transfer will take you to your hotel where you can rest or indulge in the rejuvenating spas in Thamel.

Meals: Breakfast 

Accommodation: Malla Hotel 

Day 12: UNESCO heritage sightseeing in Kathmandu

Dive into the UNESCO World heritage sites that grace the city. Wander through the historic marvels of Kathmandu Durbar Square, once the abode of Malla Kings, featuring palaces, temples, and art galleries that showcase centuries-old architecture and vibrant cultural heritage. 

Next, ascend to the revered Swayambhunath Stupa, nestled atop a hillock, where ancient shrines and serene monasteries await, creating an aura of spiritual tranquility. 

Finally, experience the sacred ambience of Pashupatinath Temple along the banks of the Bagmati River, a sprawling Hindu Temple complex hosting captivating rituals and enchanting evening chants, offering a profound insight into Nepal's rich religious traditions. 

This immersive journey guarantees a day filled with fascination and wonder, exploring the city's historical treasures and spiritual essence. 

In the evening, you will have a farewell dinner hosted by Green Getaways to celebrate the successful completion of your holiday in Nepal. 

Meals: Breakfast and welcome dinner 

Accommodation: Malla Hotel 

Day 13 : Final Departure

Your holiday in Nepal has came to an end today! Although, it might be difficult to say goodbye to this beautiful country, note that you have done something truly special while visiting this unique place. Our representatives will transfer you to the Kathmandu airport for your flight back home three hours prior your scheduled time to ensure smooth departure. 

As you fly back home, take some time to reflect on this unforgettable journey and plan another trip in the future. 

Meals: Breakfast

F.A.Q

Who are my guides?

Your guides are expert locals from the destinations you'll be visiting in Nepal. They possess fluent English-speaking skills, prioritize hygiene, and ensure your safety and enjoyment throughout your trip. These knowledgeable guides offer genuine insights into the local culture and attractions while also contributing the employment of local communities. Rest assured, you'll explore Nepal confidently with our dedicated team, experiencing its rich heritage with the assurance of capable and supportive hands guiding your journey. 

Is my trip guaranteed to run once I made the booking?

Absolutely yes! Our trips are guaranteed to run once you made the booking under normal circumstances. Even if other members of the trips cancel their trips, your trip is guaranteed to operate. This is why Green Getaways is different from other travel agencies! We offer personalized tailor-made trips to our travelers and number of participants do not affect our trips to operate. If your trip has been canceled by your operator in the last minute and are worried about your holiday, feel free to contact us and book a stress-free holiday that is tailored based on your preferences only for you. Unless there are some circumstances that are beyond our control such as pandemics, political riots, natural calamities, etc. our trips are 100% guaranteed to run. 

When is the best time to do this trek?

Optimal trekking seasons in Nepal are generally identified as spring (March to May) and fall (September to November), when the weather is favorable, skies are clear, and the majestic mountain views are at their most alluring.

For those seeking to infuse their trek with the vibrant celebrations of the Mani Rimdu Festival, November stands out as the perfect month. This cultural extravaganza typically unfolds during this time 

For those seeking to infuse their trek with the vibrant celebrations of the Mani Rimdu Festival, November stands out as the perfect month. This cultural extravaganza typically unfolds during this time, offering a unique opportunity to witness the festivities alongside the stunning landscapes of Nepal.

However, if November doesn't align with your holiday plans and you still have a penchant for cultural experiences, fret not. There are alternative options available, ensuring that you can partake in enriching cultural activities regardless of the chosen trekking month. The versatility of Nepal's cultural calendar means that you can immerse yourself in the local traditions and festivities, creating a memorable and culturally rich trekking experience.

What physical fitness do I require to do this tour?

Our meticulously crafted trips are tailored to suit diverse range of travelers, encompassing children, youths, and adults alike. No prior trekking experiences is necessary to embark on this journey successfully. Our seasoned guides, coming from the region, are adept at catering to the needs of all types of travelers. 

Even if you haven't engaged in trekking before, our thoughtfully designed itineraries ensure that of all skill levels can navigate the trek with ease. Furthermore, we provide comprehensive information on training guidelines specific to trekking in Nepal, alleviating any concerns about your physical readiness.

Rest assured, your trekking adventure with us us designed to be accessible and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of prior experience. 

What happens if someone in the group becomes sick?

In recognizing the potential challenges associated with medical conditions, particularly in the context of trekking at high altitudes, we prioritize the well-being of our participants.

Our commitment to a seamless experience is underscored by the measures we have in place to address such situations effectively.

Our seasoned guides, equipped with expertise in handling medical emergencies, are poised to assess the condition of any individual who may fall ill during the journey. Depending on the severity of the illness, our guides are trained to administer basic first aid or, if necessary, coordinate evacuation to the nearest medical facility.

To ensure the best possible care, we encourage participants to openly communicate any pre-existing medical information or concerns before the trip. This information enables us to prepare adequately and offer appropriate assistance when needed. Additionally, our team carries a comprehensive medical kit to address minor health issues during the trek.

Furthermore, should a member of the group become unwell and unable to proceed, our contingency plan involves one of our guides staying with the individual while the rest of the group continues the journey. This strategic approach ensures that overall experience of the group is not affected by one person's setback. 

Can dietary preferences and requirements be accommodated during the trek?

Absolutely, we understand the importance of catering to diverse dietary needs. Our team is well-equipped to accommodate various preferences and restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary requirements. When booking your trek, please inform us of any specific dietary concerns you may have, and we will make every effort to customize your meals accordingly. 

What's Included

  • 24/7 Support
  • Accommodation
  • All ground transportation including airport transfers
  • Breakfast
  • Domestic Flights
  • Entrance Fee
  • Farewell Dinner
  • Guide
  • Permits
  • Porter Service
  • Service charge and VAT
  • Sightseeing in UNESCO heritage sites
  • Welcome Dinner

What's Excluded

  • Anything not mentioned in 'What's Included'
  • Dinner
  • International Ticket
  • Lunch
  • Personal Expenses
  • Travel Insurance
  • Visa Fees

Activities

  • Farewell Dinner
  • Festival Celebrations
  • Mountain View
  • Sunset and Sunrise
  • Trekking
  • UNESCO heritage sightseeing
  • Welcome Dinner

Why Book With Us?

  • Commitment to Sustainability
  • Empowerment of Local Communities
  • Minimal Harm to the Environment
  • Thoughtfully Curated Products
  • Full Transparency
  • Founded by Young Sustainable Tourism Enthusiasts