Khumjung and Khunde
In Nepali: खुम्जुङ र खुन्दे
Just an hour or two above Namche, Khumjung and Khunde feel like another world: potato fields walled in stone, green-roofed houses and the sacred peak of Khumbila behind. Khumjung school was the first founded by Edmund Hillary's Himalayan Trust in 1961, and Khunde has the hospital he started.
Khumjung monastery displays what it calls a yeti scalp for a small donation. Most trekkers pass straight by on the main trail, which makes an overnight here an easy way to see everyday Sherpa life.
What to see and do
Visit the Khumjung monastery with its famous 'yeti scalp' relic, the Hillary School with a statue of Sir Edmund, and the Khunde Hospital. The flat valley floor is lined with stone-walled fields and a long mani wall; in spring and autumn potato planting and harvest are in full swing.
The walk from Namche via the Everest View Hotel and back via Khunde makes a perfect acclimatisation loop, with Ama Dablam and Thamserku in view much of the way.
Good to know
Lodges in Khumjung are quieter and often cheaper than in Namche. Respect local customs: walk left of mani walls and chortens, and ask before entering homes or photographing people.
Quick answers
- Where is Khumjung and Khunde?
- Khumjung and Khunde is in Solukhumbu district, Koshi Province, in the Himal belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Khumjung and Khunde?
- About 3,790 m (12,435 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Khumjung and Khunde?
- For a 6-day trip from Kathmandu, about NPR 85,500 (≈ US$635) per person on a budget, or NPR 93,500 (≈ US$695) with standard hotels and private transport — for two foreign visitors sharing, including transport, stay, food, entry fees, a guide and porter. Nepali visitors on a budget: about NPR 35,500 per person. These are estimates; adjust them in the trip planner.
- How many days do I need for Khumjung and Khunde?
- Plan 4 nights there for the trek; with travel from Kathmandu and back, about 6 days in all.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Khumjung and Khunde?
- Foreign visitors pay about NPR 5,000 / US$37 to enter Sagarmatha National Park plus the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu municipality fee (SAARC visitors about half, Nepali citizens a small fee).
- Do I need a guide for Khumjung and Khunde?
- Yes, for foreign trekkers: since 2023 a licensed guide is required in Nepal’s national parks and conservation areas. Nepali trekkers may go on their own.
- When is the best time to visit Khumjung and Khunde?
- October–May
- How do I get to Khumjung and Khunde?
- 1.5–2 hours' walk from Namche Bazaar. It is about 138 km (straight line) from Kathmandu, and usually reached by flight.
- What is Khumjung and Khunde called in Nepali?
- खुम्जुङ र खुन्दे
Photo gallery
1 / 9
