Khunde Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, food and drink scene, where to stay, and how to get around in Khunde, Nepal. Plan your perfect trip with our week-long itinerary, hiking and biking routes, and cultural insights.


Introduction to Khunde

Nested in the heart of the stunning Khumbu valley, Khunde is a charming Nepalese village that boasts awe-inspiring views of the Himalayan mountain range. Located in the Solu-Khumbu district of Nepal, Khunde is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and culture aficionados. Home to some of the highest mountain peaks globally, the region attracts a steady stream of trekkers, climbers, and adventure seekers all year round.

List of Places to Visit in Khunde

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Khumjung Monastery - Visit the 400-year-old monastery and see the preserved Yeti Scalp
  • Sir Edmund Hillary School - The first modern school was built here in 1960, first aid and healthcare classes still held here.
  • Sherpa Museum - Exhibits showcasing the Sherpa culture and history of the region
  • Khunde Hospital – Nepal’s only hospital in the region, also a site of the Hillary Foundation

Natural Attractions of Khunde: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Everest View Hotel - The highest hotel in the world (3,962 m) provides panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam
  • Imja Lake - A glacial lake situated at the base of the Island Peak, offer a great view
  • Thame Valley - A scenic trekking route filled with stunning landscapes, bridges, and friendly locals
  • Gokyo Lakes – a series of six turquoise, high-altitude glacial lakes that are nestled amongst towering mountains, the region were voted by hikers as must visit spot.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Khunde

Khunde is the perfect destination for hikers and mountain bikers. The surrounding areas offer unforgettable hiking and biking experiences, including:

  • Trek to Everest Base Camp - A 14-day trek that includes Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Gorak Shep, and Base Camp, made iconic by Hillary and Tenzing
  • Gokyo Valley Trek - An eight-day trek that offers climbers the stunning views of Everest, Makalu, and Cho Oyu mountains.
  • Renjo La Pass Trek - An eleven-day trek that takes you over one of the loveliest passes within the Everest Himalayas
  • Mountain Biking – ask any local and they will gladly inform you of the biking routes available for all skill levels.

Best Things to Do in Khunde: Activities and Tours

  • Helicopter tour of the Everest area - The best way to witness the beauty of Everest from the sky.
  • Mountaineering expedition - Experts will guide first-time climber to reach the summit of Himalayan peaks
  • Kayaking and Rafting - Experience the thrills of rafting in the high altitude rivers like the Dudh Kosi and Bhote Kosi
  • Traditional Sherpa Cultural Dinner and Show - Experience the hospitality of the Sherpas’ with their delicious cuisine and cultural dances.

Week-Long Itinerary for Khunde

Here is a possible itinerary to make the most of your week in Khunde:

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu, fly to Lukla airstrip, trek to Phakding Day 2: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar, explore local market and nearby attractions. Day 3: Trek from Namche to Khunde, visit the hospital, monastery and the museum. Day 4: Visit Imja lake and take a short hike around the lake Day 5: Hike to Everest View Hotel and back to Khunde Day 6: Take a day trip to Gokyo Lake and surrounding areas. Day 7: Departure from Lukla airstrip back to Kathmandu

Food and Drink Scene of Khunde

Must-Try Dishes

  • Dal Bhat - A traditional Nepali meal, consisting of rice, lentil soup, and curried vegetables
  • Momos - Popular steamed dumplings filled with spiced meat or vegetables and served with hot sauce.
  • Sherpa stew - Made with potatoes, mutton, and a typical Sherpa homemade fermented barley called Tsampa
  • Thukpa – Nepali noodle soup with meat or vegetables

Local Beverages

  • Chang - A locally brewed beer made from fermented millet, barley, or rice
  • Sherpa Tea - A spicy tea made with butter, milk, and black tea served with salt or sugar
  • Raksi -A potent distilled alcoholic drink made from grains like rice or wheat

Where to Stay in Khunde: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Khunde Hospital Guest House - Rooms are basic, but the complex has 24 hour electricity, indoor western-style toilets, around USD 35 a night
  • Panorama Lodge and Restaurant - Offers picturesque views of the Everest and surrounding mountains, rooms around USD 50 a night
  • Yeti Mountain Home- Located in the remote and upper region of Khunde they offer luxurious rooms from around USD 150 per night

What to Buy in Khunde: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Prayer flags and beads – colorful items found in all local shops
  • Yak wool sweaters and caps – Perfect for warmth in the high altitude areas
  • Thangkas - traditional Tibetan Buddhist painting with rich colors and elaborate designs
  • Handmade knives - made by local blacksmiths with yak bone or horn handles.

Local Culture and Customs of Khunde

Sherpas are the locals of Khunde, they take pride in their unique blend of Tibetan and Nepali culture as well as their connection to the mountains. Traditional clothing consists of a thick fur hat, patterned woolen skirts, and jackets made of sheepskin. Communication in Sherpa culture is often influenced by Tibetan Buddhism, and it is common to greet, say thank you and goodbye in Tibetan.

Best Time to Visit Khunde

The best time to visit Khunde is from March to May and October to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant, making it easier to trek and explore the outdoors. The monsoon season takes place from June to September, making the terrain difficult with slippery paths and landslides, while December to February it is very cold and rarely visited as lots of snows block the trails.

Do’s and Don’ts of Khunde

Do:

  • Respect local customs and values
  • Pay attention to the altitude sickness, and acclimatize accordingly
  • Always ask for permission before taking photographs of locals
  • Properly dispose of trash and waste

Don’t:

  • Do not touch religious artifacts without permission
  • Do not take or buy endangered animal products, including Yeti scalp or bone
  • Do not disrespect the Sherpas beliefs or culture.

Safety and Health

Safety in Khunde

Robbery and crime are almost unheard of in Khunde, making it one of the safest places to travel globally. However, trekking in the area comes with some risks, mainly altitude sickness and environmental hazards such as avalanches and landslides. Make sure you have the proper gear and are physically fit to trek.

Health in Khunde

The Khunde Hospital, run by the Himalayan Trust, is the only medical facility for miles. In cases of emergency, evacuations can be arranged easily, but avoid getting sick by

  • Drink only boiled water or water purified with iodine tablets.
  • Avoid tap water, ice or unpasteurized dairy products, and raw fruits and vegetables unless you peel them yourself
  • Bring your own medication, as pharmacies in the area may have limited or no inventory.

Getting to Khunde: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Khunde

The nearest airport to Khunde is the Tenzing Hillary Airport, commonly known as Lukla Airport. Flights operate daily from Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. A direct flight takes around 25 minutes, and tickets can be purchased online or in person.

Bus Stations Near Khunde

There are no direct bus stations in Khunde. However, it is still possible to reach the area by taking a bus from Kathmandu to Jiri, a small town from which trekkers can start the trail towards Khunde.

Other Options

The most comfortable way to reach Khunde is by booking a helicopter or private jeep from Kathmandu directly to Lukla Airport. Plus point, you will get some aerial views of the Himalayas en route.

How to Get Around in Khunde

The only way to get around in Khunde is by walking or hiring a Sherpa guide. Most attractions around the village are within walking distance, and it makes for an excellent way to embrace local culture and the natural environment.

Where to Go Next from Khunde: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring Khunde, travelers might want to continue trekking to the following nearby destinations:

  • Thame
  • Pangboche
  • Dingboche
  • Island Peak

Conclusion

Khunde is a beautiful and remote destination offering a unique blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. With its rich history, awe-inspiring natural scenery, and friendly locals, it is not hard to see why it is increasingly becoming a favorite among travelers searching for quieter, off-the-radar destination. By using this comprehensive guide, visitors to Khunde can ensure that they’ll make the most out of their stay in this Himalayan gem.