Explore some of the best things to do in Namche Bazaar for an unforgettable and rich experience in this vibrant Everest town. What delightful and fun activities await you here?
Namche Bazaar is an idyllic town in northeastern Nepal’s Khumbu region, nestled in a horseshoe-shaped Himalayan valley. It is a popular attraction for trekkers visiting the Everest region and a popular stopover before heading further into the mountains.
The town is also the main trading center for the Sherpa people. Thus, it is also known as the Sherpa Capital. Namche is a crucial acclimatization stop on the Everest Base Camp Trek, Gokyo Lakes, Everest View, and Everest Three Passes Treks. During your rest days, you can explore this vibrant town.
The town thrives with colorful markets, traditional Tibetan-style buildings, a monastery, and bustling streets. While in Namche, you can shop for many goods, including traditional handmade items such as prayer flags, singing bowls, and yak wool garments, and try many other things.
Since you can do so many things, we have created an elaborate list of the best things to do in Namche Bazaar. Make sure you read this article until the end.
10 Best Things To Do In Namche Bazaar
Namche Bazaar is the gateway to the Everest region. Locals, trekkers, and Sherpas come here to buy and sell goods, rest, and indulge in life in the Himalayas. It is a trading hub of the east region.
This Sherpa village has everything from ATMs and banks to restaurants, cafes, and luxury accommodations. Along with the renowned market space, Namche offers many things to do, from short hikes to hanging out at the world’s highest pub. It is a perfect spot for hanging out and spending time.
The town might be famous for being the gateway to Mount Everest, but it is also a popular tourist spot because of its many other attractions and activities. Here are the 10 best things you can do in Namche Bazaar.
Sherpa Culture Museum
The Sherpa Culture Museum is a treasure in Nepal’s Himalayas. It is a must-visit place as it offers a beautiful opportunity to get acquainted with Sherpa culture. The museum has played a crucial role in preserving ancient Sherpa artifacts. Additionally, it is built in traditional Sherpa architecture.
The Sherpa Museum also has a great sculpture of Tenzing Norgay Sherpa on the premises. It offers pearls of wisdom on the history of the Sherpa people and provides insight into Sagarmatha National Park. The museum ticket costs a small amount, which is used to preserve the artifacts.
Sagarmatha National Park Museum
Sagarmatha National Park Museum is located in the perfect spot above Namche Bazaar. Also known as the Everest Museum, it offers numerous fascinating exhibits covering the entire Khumbu region’s history, geology, culture, Everest expedition, and geography. Likewise, it provides fascinating insights into the region’s flora and fauna.
Visiting the Sagarmatha National Park Museum is one wonderful way to learn about the region. The statue of Tenzing Norgay remains the museum’s major attraction. It also serves as an educational hub for trekkers and visitors. This spot also offers intriguing views of Lhotse and Everest.
Irish Pub
Among several attractions in the town, an Irish pub is another major tourist attraction. The Irish Pub is the world’s highest pub and showcases a blend of local tradition and international culture. The pub’s ambiance has both Nepali and Western feel.
The Guardian Magazine describes the pub as the only one in the world to have Yak on its menu. However, we don’t recommend you visit here before the trek, as alcohol can cause or worsen altitude sickness. It will be a perfect spot to hang out when you return from your trek. Also, you can experience the nightlife of the Himalayas.
Exquisite Cuisines
Another great thing about traveling to Namche Bazar is the variety of cuisines offered at restaurants and cafes. You can find simple local cuisines and also Western delicacies. In fact, Namche Bazaar is the only town in the Eastern region that offers this luxury.
Enjoying mouth-watering delicacies is also one of the best things in Namche Bazar. Make sure you try out these renowned restaurants:
- Tomodachi Japanese Restaurant
- Illy Espresso Bar
- Sherpa Barista
- The Namche Pizza House
- Namche Bakery And Cafe
- Hermann Helmer’s German Bakery
Everest View Hotel
The Everest View Hotel is a popular viewpoint just above the Namche Bazaar. It is 3880 m (12,730 ft) above sea level, and the Guinness Book of World Records has enlisted it as the highest hotel in the world. It takes 1 to 2 hours of hiking to reach the hotel from Namche.
The hotel opened in 1971 and has been welcoming visitors since then. You can get gorgeous panoramic views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku from the Everest View Hotel. Likewise, you can witness stunning sunrises and sunsets. The hotel offers a luxury experience on Everest.
Stroll The Saturday Morning Market
If you visit Namche on Friday, you can stroll the Saturday morning market which takes place right in the middle of the town. Locals from the surrounding villages like Khumjung, Khunde, Thame, and others come to sell their products here, including fresh produce, handicrafts, and many other products. The market also serves as a social gathering for locals.
They bring these goods on Yak’s back, which is how they transport goods. The market begins in the morning and continues until midday. It is a beautiful cultural experience. Additionally, you can witness how locals do their business in the region.
Visit The Oldest House In Town
If you follow the path leading away from the town, you will reach Khangba Ngingba, which is considered the oldest Sherpa house in the Namche Bazaar region. This two-story stone house is around 150 years old.
It is a neatly kept home with brass cooking vessels, Tibetan-style cushions, carpets, and a temple room filled with colorful Buddhist paintings. It provides a glimpse at the old Sherps’ lifestyle.
Shopping Around
The name “bazaar” translates as a market, so shopping at Namche Bazaar is a famous and popular activity. The market is at its best on Saturdays, where you can find all kinds of products and items. The market starts from the morning to midday.
Additionally, shopping in Namche is a unique experience. It offers a variety of goods, ranging from local produce to trekking gear. You can buy souvenirs for your family and friends.
Visit Shangbouche Hill
Located at 3900 m (12795 ft), Shangbouche is one of the most beautiful places near the Namche Bazaar. To reach Shangbouche Hill, you need to hike for several hours from the town. The steep trails adorned with rhododendrons and pines make this an enjoyable adventure.
Once you reach Shangbouche Hill, you will realize the effort was worth the challenging climb. You will see astounding views of the majestic Mount Everest and other peaks, such as Khumbila, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku. The unrestricted views of the spectacular Himalayas are bound to take your breath away.
Conclusion
Namche Bazaar is a famous and picturesque town in the Eastern region of Nepal. Despite the cold climate, it is a tourist hub. It has become one of the most remarkable tourist destinations in the Everest region and is a perfect spot for hanging out.
We have curated this article by gathering as much information as possible about the things to do in Namche Bazaar. Follow this guide for a beautiful experience at the Sherpa capital. You can also check out our ultimate guide to Everest Base Camp.
How To Get To Namche Bazaar Nepal?
Namche Bazaar is the first acclimatization stop for trekking to higher altitudes in the Everest region. Since no roadway connects Kathmandu to Namche, you can fly to Lukla (2800 m) and begin your trek there.
You will land at the Tenzing Hillary Airport, named after Tenzing Norgay Sherpa and Sir Edmund Hillary, the first climbers to reach the summit of Mt. Everest.
If you want to travel via roadway, you can take a jeep to Phaplu or Jiri and start your trek at either point. Another alternative is to take a helicopter ride to Lukla. Upon reaching Lukla, you begin the Namche bazaar trek.
Taking a jeep is a cheaper option for traveling. However, it takes 9 to 10 hours to drive to Phaplu or Jiri. It takes only 30 to 45 minutes to get to Lukla by air. Additionally, trekking from Lukla gives you a head start.
Lukla To Namche Bazaar
It takes two days to trek from Lukla to Namche. However, seasoned trekkers can easily complete it in a day. But if you want to enjoy the scenic trail, we suggest you trek slowly.
You will follow the mesmerizing trail across the Dudhkoshi River. It is a steady uphill ascend towards Phakding. Many trekkers prefer to stay at Phadking overnight. On the next day, you have to climb a steep trail. It is a challenging trek, but once you reach the Hillary suspension bridge, you will feel a sense of accomplishment as you get the first glimpse of Mount Everest. Then, you will reach Namche.
Phakding To Namche Bazaar
Phakding (2160 m) is a beautiful village en route to Namche Bazaar. The trek distance from Phakding to Namche is approximately 7 to 8 km (around 4 to 5 miles).
The village is home to an Irish pub, a souvenir shop, and numerous trekking shops. It offers awesome views of a pristine river and a beautiful valley nearby. The elevation difference from Phakding to Namche is roughly 600 m, and the trek takes 4 TO 5 hours.
FAQs
Is Namche Bazaar Worth Visiting?
Namche Bazaar is the trading hub of the Everest region and is also known as the Sherpa capital. It is a picturesque town en route to the Everest Base Camp and other trekking destinations in the Himalayas. It is one of the major tourist attractions of the region. So, the Sherpa village is definitely worth visiting.
Can You See Mt Everest From Namche Bazaar?
Yes, you can see Mt. Everest from Namche Bazaar. Moreover, the viewpoint in Namche offers astounding views of the majestic Mt. Everest. It also offers awe-inspiring views of other snow-covered mountains, including Kongde Ri, Thamserku, Nuptse, Lhotse, and Ama Damblam.
Why Is Namche Bazaar Famous Among Trekkers?
Namche Bazaar is a vibrant town famous for its homemade yak cheese and butter. Likewise, it offers incredible views of the majestic Mt. Everest, heart-melting hospitality, distinct culture, and tradition. It is also an important acclimatization stop for trekkers before ascending to higher elevations.
How Long Does It Take To Reach Namche Bazaar From Lukla?
Namche Bazaar is approximately 13.5 km from Lukla. It takes about two days to hike from Lukla to Namche.
Is There A Motorized Road From Kathmandu To Namche Bazaar?
There is no motorized road connecting Namche Bazaar with Kathmandu. Hence, the only way to reach there is to trek from Lukla. Another alternative is to take a jeep from Kathmandu to Jiri or Phaplu and begin your trek there.
