Touching down at Lukla Airport, famously known as the most dangerous airport in the world, marked the beginning of an unforgettable journey. For many trekkers heading towards Everest Base Camp, this is where the adventure truly begins. As I stepped off the small aircraft, a mixture of excitement, awe, and a hint of nervousness washed over me. Ahead lay the stunning yet challenging trek through the Solu Khumbu region, with the first leg of the journey taking us from Lukla to the Phakding village
Lukla Airport: A Gateway to the Upper Himalayas
The flight to Lukla is an adventure in itself. The plane, a small twin-engine aircraft, navigates through mountain passes and valleys, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and lush green landscapes. As we neared Lukla, the short runway, perched on a cliffside and surrounded by towering peaks, appeared out of nowhere. The landing was smooth, yet the adrenaline rush was undeniable.
Stepping onto the tarmac, the crisp mountain air hit me, a stark contrast to the warm, stuffy confines of the plane. Lukla, at an altitude of 2,860 meters, is a bustling little town, filled with trekkers, porters, and locals going about their day. The energy is palpable; everyone here is either preparing for the trek ahead or reflecting on their recent return from Everest Base Camp.
Breakfast at Numbur Hotel: Fuel for the Journey
Before beginning the trek, we headed to Numbur Hotel to grab a hearty breakfast. The cafe, cozy and welcoming, offers a comforting refuge amidst the rugged surroundings with views of the airport’s runway. The menu was simple yet satisfying, with options ranging from eggs and toast to more substantial meals like porridge and pancakes. I opted for a steaming cup of black coffee and a plate of warm, buttery toast with eggs. It felt surreal to be sitting in this remote part of the world, sipping coffee while gazing at the distant peaks.
The breakfast was not just about fueling our bodies; it was a moment to gather our thoughts and prepare mentally for the trek ahead. There was a shared sense of anticipation amongst all of us in the room. We exchanged nods and smiles, a silent acknowledgment that we were all about to embark on a journey that would test our endurance and fill our hearts with awe.
The Trek Begins: Lukla to Phakding
With our backpacks strapped on, we met our porters, left Numbur Hotel and began our descent from Lukla. The path was well-trodden, lined with prayer flags fluttering in the breeze and mani stones engraved with Buddhist prayers. The initial part of the trail is a gentle downhill walk, which allowed us to ease into the rhythm of trekking.
The landscape was breathtaking, with terraced fields, dense forests, and the Dudh Koshi River flowing alongside the trail. Every step brought a new perspective, a different angle of the majestic mountains that surrounded us. The air was cool and fresh, carrying the scent of pine and earth. It was hard not to feel a deep sense of gratitude for being able to experience such natural beauty.
As we walked, we encountered local villagers going about their daily routines. Children with bright smiles ran alongside us, offering a cheerful “Namaste!” as we passed by. The friendliness of the locals was heartwarming, adding a personal touch to the already remarkable journey.
A Coffee Break to Savor the Journey
Halfway through our trek, we decided to stop for a coffee break at one of the many teahouses scattered along the trail. The small, wooden structure was inviting, offering respite from the trail and a chance to soak in the views. The coffee was simple but invigorating, warming us from the inside as we sat on the terrace overlooking the valley. It was a moment to catch our breath, exchange stories, and simply appreciate the journey we were on. The pause was brief, but it provided a much-needed boost for few kilometres ahead.
Crossing Suspension Bridges: A Test of Nerves
One of the highlights, , a test of nerves, was crossing the suspension bridges that span the Dudh Koshi River. These bridges, swaying gently with the wind and the weight of trekkers, are adorned with colourful prayer flags. As I stepped onto the first bridge, I couldn’t help but feel a mix of excitement and trepidation. The view from the middle of the bridge was stunning, with the river rushing below and the mountains towering above. It was a moment that reminded me of the raw power and beauty of nature. We offered each other encouragement and took turns taking photos, capturing the moment not just for ourselves but for each other as well.
A Hearty Lunch to Recharge
A couple of kilometers after our coffee break, we stopped for lunch at another teahouse, strategically located with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The meal was simple, consisting of local dishes like dal bhat, locally sourced veggies and momos, but it was exactly what we needed to recharge our energy. The warm food and the welcoming atmosphere of the teahouse provided a brief, yet much-appreciated, respite from the trail, and as we ate, we shared our experiences.
Arrival in Phakding: The First Night on the Trail
After about 4 to 5 hours of trekking, we arrived in Phakding, a small village nestled in the Dudh Koshi River valley at an altitude of 2,610 meters. Phakding village is a common first stop for trekkers on the way to Everest Base Camp, offering a range of lodges and teahouses for weary travellers.
As we checked into our lodge – The Mountain Lodge of Nepal (1991), I felt a sense of accomplishment. The first day’s trek, though relatively short and easy compared to what lay ahead, was still a significant milestone. We had officially begun our journey through the Himalayas towards EBC.
After settling into our rooms, we gathered in the dining area of the lodge for happy hours in the evening. The atmosphere was lively, filled with the chatter of my group sharing stories from the day’s trek. Later at the dinner table, the food was simple yet comforting— the staple meal of Nepal, along with some warm soup and vegetables. It was the perfect end to our first day on the trail.
Reflections on Day 1: Anticipation and Gratitude
As I lay in my bed that night, listening to the sound of the river outside, I couldn’t help but reflect on the day. The journey from Lukla to Phakding had been a mix of emotions—excitement, awe, and a touch of nervousness. The beauty of the landscape, the warmth of the local people, and the camaraderie among all of us had made it an unforgettable start to the trek.
There was also a sense of anticipation. This was just the beginning, and the path ahead would only become more challenging and rewarding. But for now, I felt content and grateful to be on this journey, one that would not only take me to the foot of the world’s highest mountain but also into the depths of my own resilience and spirit. The trek from Lukla to Phakding is more than just a walk through the mountains; it’s the beginning of a transformative journey. It’s a day filled with stunning landscapes, meaningful encounters, and the first steps towards realizing a dream. As I drifted off to sleep that night, I knew that the adventure had only just begun, and I was ready to embrace every moment that lay ahead.
— NGarg
Law And Policy 