Thame Travel Guide

Explore the cultural and natural attractions of Thame, Nepal with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more. Plan your trip today!


  1 Arrive in Kathmandu, and acclimatize there
  2-3 Trek from Lukla to Thame
  4 Explore Thame village and monasteries
  5 Trek from Thame to Namche Bazaar
  6 Rest day in Namche Bazaar, acclimatizing to conditions
  7-8 Trek back to Lukla and fly back to Kathmandu

Food and Drink Scene of Thame

Must-Try Dishes

  • Dal Bhat: A traditional Nepalese dish of lentil soup served with rice and a variety of flavorful vegetable sides.
  • Momo: A steamed or fried dumpling filled with vegetables or meat, typically served with a spicy dipping sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Chang: A traditional fermented alcoholic beverage made from millet or barley, Chang is a staple of Sherpa culture in the region.
  • Butter Tea: A hot beverage made from brewed tea, yak butter and salt, known for its warming and energizing properties.

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

  • Panorama Guest House: A cozy guest house located in the heart of Thame village, offering comfortable rooms, homemade food, and excellent views of the mountains.
  • Thame Guest House: Another popular guest house in the village, Thame Guest House offers clean and comfortable accommodation and a friendly atmosphere.

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

  • Sherpa Crafts: Discover unique handcrafted items that are specific to Sherpa culture, such as prayer flags, thangka paintings, and woolen clothes.
  • Yak wool products: A warm and comfortable souvenir to take home with you, yak wool products like blankets, hats, and gloves are popular items in the region.

Local Culture and Customs of Thame

  • Sherpa Culture: The Sherpa people have a unique culture that is deeply connected to their environment and spiritual beliefs, and is evident in their traditions, cuisine, art, and festivals.
  • Hospitality: Hospitality is a common feature of Nepalese culture, and the people of Thame are known for their warmth and friendly nature towards visitors.

Best Time to Visit Thame

The best time to visit Thame is during the Spring season (March to May) and Autumn season (September to November), when the weather is mild and stable, skies are clear, and mountain views are at their best.

Do’s and Don’ts of Thame

Do:

  • Respect Sherpa culture: Be aware of cultural norms and traditions when interacting with the locals, especially in religious places.
  • Acclimatize properly: Trekking in the high altitude region requires proper acclimatization, so take it slow and follow the advice of your guide.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the environment: As a fragile and remote environment, it is important to respect the natural landscape and wildlife, and follow leave-no-trace policies.
  • Give money to children: Giving money or gifts to children can promote begging and dependency, so avoid such practices and support the local economy by buying locally-made handicrafts and souvenirs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Thame

  • Altitude sickness: Thame is located at over 3800 meters above sea level, and trekkers should be aware of the risks of altitude sickness and take necessary precautions, such as proper acclimatization and hydration.
  • Trekking permits: Ensure that you have the required trekking permit and necessary documents from the Nepalese government prior to starting your trek.

Health in Thame

  • Hygiene: Due to the remote and high altitude location of Thame, access to medical facilities is limited and it is important to maintain hygiene and avoid contaminated food or water.
  • Water: Tap water in Thame is not safe for drinking and it is recommended to either boil or treat the water before consuming.

Getting to Thame: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Thame

  • Tenzing-Hillary Airport: The main airport closest to Thame, Tenzing-Hillary Airport is located in Lukla and is accessible by domestic flights from Kathmandu.

Bus Stations Near Thame

  • There are no direct bus services to Thame, however, one can take a bus from Kathmandu to Jiri and then take a jeep to reach Thame.

Other Options

  • Helicopter service: Helicopter services are available for those who want to reach Thame quickly and comfortably, though it is more expensive than other options.

How to Get Around in Thame

Walking is the primary mode of transportation in Thame, however, taxis, bikes, and horses are also available for hire for those looking for an alternative mode of transport.

Where to Go Next from Thame: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Everest Base Camp: The most popular trek in the region, the Everest Base Camp trek takes you to the base of the world’s highest peak and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Gokyo Lakes: A beautiful and serene location, the Gokyo Lakes are a must-visit destination for trekking enthusiasts, offering stunning views of the Khumbu region and Mount Everest.

Conclusion

Thame is a hidden gem in the Himalayas, offering a unique and authentic experience of Nepal’s culture and natural beauty. Our comprehensive guide provides all the information you need to plan your trip and make the most of your visit to Thame.