Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek

Trip Overview
  • Duration 12 Days
  • Difficulty Level Moderate or Grade B (**)
  • DestinationNepal
  • Meals & AccommodationBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Trip Start & EndKathmandu to Kathmandu
  • Trip TypeTrekking
  • Major AttractionTengboche Monastery, Mani Rimdu Festival
  • Maximum Altitude3880 Meters
  • Best TimeAll Year Around

Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek Fixed departure is a 12-day adventure that lets you witness one of the biggest festivals of the sherpa community in the Tengboche Monastery on the 15th, 16th, and 17th of November, 2024. It’s a very colorful and unique religious Event that lasts 19 days. Among the 19 days, only the last three days of the Mani Rimdu Fiesta are public, and everyone from the region can attend. This year, 2024, based on the Tibetan lunar calendar, the three-day Mani Rimdu public celebration will be held on the 15th, 16th, and 17th of November. 

Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek Fixed departure on Nov 10 lets the interested traveler join the traditional rite of the sherpas called Mani Rimdu. The monastery where the ritual occurs lies on the way to the Everest base camp. This being said, along with an opportunity to participate in the vibrant celebration, you can also reach the region's main attraction, Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, etc., in just a single journey. You have to leave around a week or two early to attend the last three days of the Mani Rimdu public event on Nov 15, 16, and 17,2024.

You've always wanted to experience one of the most colorful Buddhist festivals in the Himalayas. Now, you have the perfect opportunity to do just that with Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek Itinerary. Take this hike to the Tengboche Monastery or even further to the foot of Everest, i.e., Everest base camp, and witness the spectacular Mani Rimdu festival. 

For two weeks in the fall, ancient Buddhist monasteries in the Khumbu region host these lively celebrations filled with masked dances, music, and prayer ceremonies. You'll learn about centuries-old traditions from expert Sherpa guides as you hike through the Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek route with breathtaking landscapes and fluttering prayer flags to reach Tengboche Monastery. 

12-Day Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek highlights the importance of attending the religious ceremonies led by Buddhist monks as they bless the community and drive out evil spirits through hypnotic chants for three whole days. Held in late October or November, the 19-day festival features elaborate costumes, chanting, and dancing by monks to traditional Sherpa music.

As part of the festivities, the monks and lamas perform ritualistic dances known as cham dances. The dances enact moments from Buddhist teachings and folklore. The dances represent the defeat of demons and are meant to bring good fortune. The colorful masks and costumes the monks wear during the cham dances are beautiful works of art.

The Mount Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek Itinerary starts with a Flight to Lukla. You then color the Everest base camp route that goes through picturesque Sherpa villages like Phakding and Namche Bazaar before reaching Tengboche Monastery on the 15th of November. 

Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek for 12 days offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks like Nuptse, Tawache, Lhotse, Everest, Thamserku, and Ama Dablam. You'll experience the local Sherpa culture by staying in teahouses and interacting with villagers, Monks, and lamas.

The trek to Everest Mani Rimdu Festival ends at the Tengboche Monastery, where you can witness the elaborate rituals, dances, and celebrations. Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek's Fixed Departure Itinerary can be customized to include your places of interest, such as reaching Everest base camp, Gokyo, or Kala Patthar. 

After the festival ends, you'll continue the trek as per the schedule and the Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek map, passing through more Sherpa villages on the way to Namche Bazaar, the main town in the Everest region. The trek provides a glimpse into the Buddhist faith and culture of the high Himalayas, timing your trek with the Mani Rimdu Festival celebration on November 5th, 16th, and 17th. 

You'll get a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience this essential spiritual and cultural event in the Everest region.

Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek Fixed departure promises an easy way to travel for tourists who want to participate in the Mani Rimdu Festive celebration on the 15th, 16th, and 17th of November in 2024. We have opened the booking for this trip at the best cost and itinerary. With a fixed departure date scheduled for Nov 10, you will reach the Tengboche monastery on time and attend the Tibetan-Buddhist event on Nov 15, 16, and 27. Contact us to customize the trip for 12 days Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek 2024. 

Significant Highlights of Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek

  • Hop on a thrilling flight to Lukla- the entrance to the Everest region. 
  • Walk around the Sagarmatha National Park on the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • With the Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek, reach the Tengboche Monastery on the date of the public festive celebration on Nov 15, 16, and 17. 
  • Hike in the Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, in autumn. 
  • Go to the Sherpa museum in Namche Bazaar and retrace the antique residences of the Sherpa people.
  • Acknowledge the sacredness of the monks' work through the publicly demonstrated sand mandala. 
  • Attend several religious ceremonies, including meditations for some time.

Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek Fixed Departure Date 2024 

The Everest Mani Rimdu Festival trek's fixed departure for 2024 is set to be on November 10. This fixed departure ensures we reach the Mani Rimdu public celebration on November 15, 16, and 17th in the Autumn season on time

The fixed departure date on Nov 10 for the 2024 Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek is now available to book in advance. However, for adventurous tourists who want to explore the Everest region more and reach attractions like Gokyo, Everest base camp, Kala Patthar three passes, etc, early departures can be arranged before November 1. With early departure, you can enjoy the Autumn Everest base camp or Gokyo trek and then return to the Tengboche monastery to participate in the Mani Rimdu festival. 

Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek Fixed departure dates mean you can book your trek up to a year ahead of the festival and ensure you have a secured spot. No more worrying if you'll be able to get the necessary permits or if tea houses along the route will have room for you. You'll trek with an experienced guide and group, enjoying the camaraderie of like-minded adventurers. The trek difficulty is moderate and suitable for anyone with a decent fitness level.

The fixed Departure date for the Everest Mani Rimdu festival is mentioned below. 

Trip Start

Trip End

Mani Rimdu Festival Dates for 2024

November 10, Sunday

November 21, Thursday

Nov 15, Nov 16 and Nov 17

Note: We have fixed this trip's departure date for this trip to November 10, 2024. To book this Everest trip, type in the number of travelers you will be joining and contact us. 

The Significance of the Mani Rimdu Ritual

The Mani Rimdu is one of the most important religious festivals in the Everest region. Held annually at Tengboche Monastery, it celebrates the victory of Buddhism over Bon, the pre-Buddhist religion of Tibet. 

Celebration With A Unique Sacred Dance Performance

Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek’s focal point is the festival where an elaborate sacred dance performance, or cham dance, performed by the monks of Tengboche Monastery occurs. Wearing colorful masks and costumes, the monks reenact the conquest of Buddhism over Bon through choreographed dances set to traditional music. The three-day ritual performances on the Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek are meant to spread spiritual blessings and bring prosperity. Some names of the dances performed are below.

  • Gold Libation dance
  • Ging dance
  • Dorjo Drolo dance
  • Drum dance
  • The Long Life Man
  • Liberation dance
  • Protector dance
  • Share lung and the black men
  • Skywalkers dance
  • Seer
  • Sword dance
  • Magic weapon dance
  • The Ensemble

A Time for Prayer and Offerings

Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek, which is only organized once a year, is also a time for prayer, meditation, and offering offerings while participating in the Mani Rimdu celebration. Locals and visitors trek up to Tengboche to light butter lamps, offer donations, and pray for health, happiness, and good fortune. The monastery is beautifully decorated with religious paintings, colorful silk hangings, and fresh juniper branches.

Celebration Bringing People Together

Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek with an opportunity to be part of the famous Mani Rimdu festival brings together people from across the Everest region, tourists, and locals and fosters a sense of community. Members of the Sherpa ethnic group come from distant valleys to socialize, trade goods, celebrate their shared cultural heritage, and strengthen their Buddhist faith.

For visitors on the Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek, attending the sacred dances and celebrations at Tengboche offers a rare glimpse into the spiritual lives of the Sherpa people. Witnessing this vital festival is a highlight for many trekkers in Nepal. By understanding its religious and cultural significance, you can better appreciate its role in bringing together communities in the shadow of the Himalayas.

When and Where will the Mani Rimdu Festival take place?

The Mani Rimdu Festival takes place in the Everest region of Nepal, in the village of Chiwong, very close to the monastery village of Thame. The festival is held at the three different Monasteries, i.e., Thame, Tengboche, and Monastery. 

The festival usually occurs in May or November, depending on the Tibetan lunar calendar. This year, 2024, the celebration will be on the 15th, 16th, and 17th of November 2024. 

The Mani Rimdu Festival is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Sherpa Buddhist culture. You'll witness elaborate masked dances, chanting ceremonies, and sacred rituals in the backdrop of the mighty Himalayas. The festival celebrates the victory of Buddhism over the ancient Bon religions of the region. Local monks perform the dances wearing colorful masks to represent deities and demons from Buddhist teachings.

The Autumn Festival- Mani Rimdu Celebration

The autumn Mani Rimdu Festival public celebration will be held on November 15th, 16th and 17th in 2024. Here are the day-by-day rituals and dances performed below. 

November 15th, 1st Day of the Mani Rimdu

The ceremony starts on the bright festival's opening day when the Tengboche monastery's monks bless the visitors. They do this by participating in a dance where the villagers wear masks and sing while the tradition continues. The monks perform ritual dances meant to drive away evil spirits. Monks create sand mandalas, which are visual representations of gods. In the middle, the bowl of Mani Rilwu is placed. Around the end of the celebration, the monks will give out the pills to those participating in the ceremony.

November 16th, 2nd Day of the Mani Rimdu

On the second day of the festival, the monks do many exciting acts in the monastery. They do the Cham dance, which is an ethnic dance. They dress with brocade gowns and multicolor masks. Cham dance is probably the most significant part of the Cham performance from the audience's perspective in the Khumbu region. The dance passes a timeline story in which the demons give way and good spirits win. They also dance to another dance, "Ser-Kyem" fish, which, like the others, is performed on the same day. 

November 17th, 3rd Day of the Mani Rimdu

A fire puja- Jinsak - is conducted in the monastery's courtyard on the third day. During the puja, offerings are made to the Agni, a god, to get rid of the world of all the evils. The mandalas are put together only to be taken apart again and dedicated to the spring with water by the serpent gods (Nagas) at the following spring. The last and most exciting day of the festival is when residents of Chhingspa village perform their traditional dance. This is presented by the demon and the guardian of the four dharmas, who oppose each other in the fight to spread and preserve the Buddhist faith. Local people will come at the festival’s closing hour and display their songs and dances with joyful moments.

What to Expect During Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek?

With our fixed departure dates set on 10 November, the first thing you can expect with the Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek is to reach the Tengboche monastery on the exact date of the Mani Rimdu public celebration, i.e., 15th November. Here are some other things to expect below. 

  • The Everest Mani Rimdu Festival trek takes you through some of the most stunning scenery in the Himalayas. As you trek to Tengboche Monastery, you'll journey through rhododendron forests and have panoramic views of massive mountains like Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. 
  • The autumn foliage and blooming flowers make the trail even more picturesque. You'll traverse alpine meadows at higher elevations and maybe spot some yaks or mountain goats along the way.
  • The Mani Rimdu festival celebrates the triumph of Buddhism over pre-Buddhist deities of the Bon religion in the Himalayas. 
  • For three days, witness the monks performing sacred dances and rituals wearing elaborate masks and costumes. 
  • You'll get to observe sacred rituals up close, like the fire puja, meant to purify the monastery and its surroundings. The cultural dances are intended to pass down Buddhist teachings through performance and symbolism. 

Is This Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek Right For You?

Yes, the Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek with Fixed Departure is suitable for you if you want to travel to the heart of the Solukhumbu region of Nepal and take part in the Mani Rimdu festival public rituals on the 15th, 16th, and 17th of November, 2024. 

  • This culturally immersive  Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek lets you witness sacred Buddhist rituals and celebrations at Tengboche Monastery. However, the high altitude and physically demanding trek may not be ideal for all travelers.
  • The 3-day festival includes chanting, dancing, and other ceremonies. You'll witness Sherpa culture authentically and receive blessings from the high lamas.
  • The Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek ventures into high Himalayan terrain, so you must be physically healthy. You'll ascend over 10,000 feet, with much of the walking at high altitude. 
  • Be prepared for cold temperatures, especially at night. The thin air can cause altitude sickness in some, so acclimatize slowly and watch for symptoms. Most people can complete the trek without issue with the right preparation and pacing.

Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek Cost

The updated cost for the Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek fixed departure starts at $1400 per person. This package includes all services, such as an English-speaking guide, accommodation, meals, Lukla flight, permits, and more.

Few travelers who make solo trips and want company can join the group for departure on November 10, 2024. Our group pricing list for the trip is listed below. 

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Itinerary

This  Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek Itinerary includes reaching the Tengboche monastery on the day of celebration and returning back to Kathmandu. However, if you want to add more destinations to your Itinerary, like reaching Everest base camp, Gokyo, Three passes, etc, contact us to customize your trip. 

Day to Day Info

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Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will meet our representative, who will welcome you at the Tribhuvan International Airport. After warmly receiving you, our representative will drop you at your hotel in a private tourist vehicle. You can go for the hotel check-in process and take some rest. Later, you can visit our office for a short briefing on your Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek. . 

  • Hotels
  • Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Free Day
  • 1,400 m

Flight Duration: 5 to 30 minutes

Trekking Duration: 3-4 hrs

Accommodations: Tea Houses

As per the Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek fixed departure itinerary, you will have breakfast before going to the airport's domestic terminal for your Lukla flight. While the flight lasts about 40 minutes with a landing at Tenzing-Hillary Airport, the gateway to the Himalayas, the aerial views of the snow-capped mountains at sunrise are spectacular.

Once you land in Lukla, our team will meet you at the airport, and your trek will start immediately afterward towards the Phakding. After a short trek from Lukla, we crossed Chaurikharka village and went to the bridge over the Dudh Kosi River. After crossing the river, the trail ends on the suspending bridge and then runs uphill to reach Phadking.

  • Tea Houses
  • Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • 5 to 30 minutes, 3-4 hrs
  • 2,800m

Trekking Duration: 5-6 hrs

Accommodations: Tea Houses

Starting from Phakding from your breakfast, stop amidst the enchanted forest of pine trees with River Dudh Koshi on your side as you view the magnificent Mount Thamserku. We trek with the spellbinding sight of the Himalayas, then go down to Phakding. The track takes you through Monjo village, where you must proceed to Sagarmatha National Park for permit registration.

Within the next two hours of climbing, you'll get to Namche Bazaar, with the villages along the way and the rivers Dudh Koshi and Bhote Koshi flowing together. The first glimpse of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse will greet you as you step foot in Namche Bazaar. 

  • Tea Houses
  • Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • 5-6 hrs
  • 3,430m

Trekking Duration: 5-6 hrs

Accommodations: Tea Houses

Namche, located above 3000 meters, has a lurking danger called altitude sickness. Thus, we will use the day to acclimatize. Namche Bazaar, the capital of Sh, has all the necessities that anybody can think of, like an ATM, internet café, restaurants, bakery, etc. According to your 12-day Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek Fixed departure Itinerary, today will be your acclimatization day, which you can use to make a short hike to the viewpoint (Everest View Hotel, Thamo, and Khunde) and take a tour of the country including the Tourist Visitor Center. Here, you will get detailed information about climbing Mount Everest, its history, Sherpa culture, etc. 

  • Tea Houses
  • Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • 5-6 hrs
  • 3,430m

Trekking Duration: 5-6 hrs

Accommodations: Tea Houses

This is the day when you trek to Tengboche, which is a rocky trail made of a series of ascents and descents by a rocky path.

The road to Tengboche village is creaky and zigzag, but the views are truly worth all the effort when you climb up to the monastery. On the one hand, while climbing or descending the peaks, there are no critical climbs or descents, and as a result, you have more time for landscape photography.

You can capture different sights of the Stupa, Mani wall, and Tibetan-style prayer flags with Buddhist prayers written on them; the mountains like Ama Dablam (6812m) and Tengboche Monastery, etc. today. Overnight will be at one of the tea houses of Tengboche. 

  • Tea Houses
  • Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • 5-6 hrs
  • 3,867m

Accommodations: Tea Houses

Today's the opening day of the Mani Rimdu Festival. Wake up early and head towards the communal dining hall for your breakfast. The festival starts early in the morning, so do not miss any rituals, have breakfast, and reach the monastery's large courtyard. 

The first day of the Mani Rimdu Festival, associated with the term Wong, is devoted to enlightenment. The head Lama starts doing a series of rites and prayers, showing the blessings of all those present. Participants are given the sacred initiation that consists of the purification ritual and the offering of the thread. You get two pills during the event; one is sacred, and it is called Mani Rimdu, and another is Tshereel for long life.

After the end of the first day of the Mani Rimdu Festival celebration, you head towards your tea houses for your lunch. 

  • Tea Houses
  • Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Free Day
  • 3,860 m

Accommodations: Tea Houses

Today is the second day of the Mani Rimdu Festival. You follow yesterday's routine: waking up early, having breakfast, and heading towards the monastery's large courtyard. 

On the second festival day, the Cham period occurs, when monks demonstrate their exquisite skills in beautifully masked dances. These dances usually represent the myths and legends in Tibetan Buddhism, such as the various gods, demons, or mystical beings with a different story to be told. The Cham shows undoubtedly enchant the audience with the voice and sound of the Cham musical instruments: Dary, Kim, and Thong. The performances equally include the artists who come fully clad in colorful outfits with masks to bring out the show's mood.

The festivity will end in the evening. You will then march towards your tea houses in the Tengboche for your dinner and overnight stay. 

  • Tea Houses
  • Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Free Day
  • 3,860 m

Accommodations: Tea Houses

Per the Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek Fixed departure itinerary, today is the last day of the Mani Rimdu festivity. After breakfast, you will reach the monastery for the Closing Ceremony.

On the 3rd and last day of the festival, Jinsak monks will perform a fire puja or other rituals. The fire puja symbolizes the cleansing of ignorance and evils from the body. People make offerings to the fire while chanting the prayers. 

The sand mandalas are then dismantled and offered to the serpents (Nagas ) at the river near the monastery. In the end, there is the resonating charisma of the Chhingspa dance event. This dance described the attack from demons and four Dharma guards defending the Buddhist Norm. After the end of the closing ceremony, you then trek and return to your tea houses for dinner. 

  • Tea Houses
  • Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Free Day
  • 3,860 m

Trekking Duration: 4-5 hrs

Accommodations: Tea Houses

After a great experience at the Tengboche Mani Rimdu Festival, our hike back down to Lukla for our flight begins today. The trail goes through the juniper, pine, magnolia, and a little birchwood forest on the left bank of the Dudh Koshi River at Phunke Tegna. Next, we follow the trails that go up the jungle after passing the Dudh Koshi River. You'll enjoy the stunning views and scenery as you return to Namche Bazaar for the night. And if you happen to be at Namche Bazaar on a Saturday, don't miss out on the weekly markets. Overnight will be at one of the tea houses of Namche Bazaar. 

  • Tea Houses
  • Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • 4-5 hrs

Trekking Duration: 6-7 hrs

Accommodations: Tea Houses

Today is our last day of the trek, and it will be quite an exhausting trip to Lukla. We will go back again to the route we traveled before, ie. Jorsale, Manjo, Benkar, Tok Tok, Phakding, and Ghat. While travelling, we shall pause and gaze at the beautiful greenery and the incredible mountain views. Moreover, we will treasure the attraction of the ethnic villages of the Sherpa until we find ourselves in Lukla. Upon reaching Lukla, you will have the whole day to visit the areas you like. At that time, our guide will check our flight tickets going back to Kathmandu. Overnight will be at one of the tea houses of Lukla. 

  • Tea Houses
  • Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • 6-7 hrs

Flight Duration: 25 to 30 minutes

Accommodations: Hotels

Finally, after a 30-minute flight leaving Lukla, you will travel to Kathmandu as you end your trekking experience. During that flight time, try to see the fantastic landscapes transforming. We will arrange your pick-up at the Kathmandu airport and take you to the hotel, where you will spend the night.

As it is an early flight, the afternoon will be enough to discover the beauty of Kathmandu. Whether you'd like to hang out here to shop or collect souvenirs, you will definitely find something interesting here. If you need some tips, please do not hesitate to ask us about the greatest restaurants, the most-visited attractions, or the best evening music shows.

  • Hotels
  • Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • 25 to 30 minutes
  • 1,400 m

One of our representatives from Mountain Rock Treks will pick you up from your hotel and drop you at the airport on your departure 3 hours before the flight departure time.

  • Breakfast
  • Free Day
  • 1,400 m

We are pleased to offer the flexibility of tailoring your journey to your desired duration and places, whether extended or shortened, as our proficient team of locals-cum-guides, porters, and accompanying staff have an in-depth understanding of every location traveled.

customize my trip

Cost Details

Includes

  • Airport picks drop & pick up by a private vehicle.
  • Two nights hotel accomodation in kathmandu B/B Plan. ( Before a trip and last day of the trip)
  • Three Times Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
  • Tea House hotel accommodation during the trek.
  • A highly experienced, helpful, and friendly government license holder Guides his food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment, and medicine.
  • One Potter for two trekkers.(limit of 20-25 KG)
  • Duffel bag, Sleeping Bag and Down Jacket (return after complet the trip)
  • Everest area trekking map.
  • One Company T-shirt or Cap.
  • Round Trip flight fare Kathmandu - Lukla. Flight will be from Mathali -Lukla- Manthali in october- november And April, May.
  • Kathmandu & domestic airport taxes in Kathmandu and Lukla airport for groups and crews.
  • National Park permits and TIMS (Trekker's Information Management System)
  • Certificate of achievement  (If needed) 
  • Farewell dinner in Nepali restaurant in Thamel before your departure from Nepal 
  • Free luggage store at office or at hotel.
  • All ground transportation.
  • All our government taxes.
  • Official expanse.
  • An airport transfer service for your final departure ​​​​​​.

Excludes

  • Your travel insurance. (Compulsory)
  • Kathmandu Accomodation.
  • International airfare.
  • Nepal entry visa fee.
  • Items of a personal nature include alcoholic drinks, cold drinks, and laundry.
  • Personal trekking Equipment.
  • Tips for guide and potter etc.

Dates & Price

Upcoming Departure

Few Seat LeftStarts: SundayNov 10, 2024
Ends: ThursdayNov 21, 2024
Status: AvailableUS$1450

Essential Info

When is the Best time for the Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek?

The best season for a trip to the Everest Mani Rimdu Festival trek is typically in October or November when the festival is usually held. In this year's case, the festival will be from November 15th to November 17th. Therefore, One should plan to set out for the event at least one week before the festive event. 

Mani Rimdu, the Autumn Festival, is generally held in October or November. These are some of the best times to hike in Nepal because they cover the peak of the natural beauty of the Everest region like no other time of year. During this period, the weather is nice and calm; it does not rain very often, so trekking and attending the festival are delightful experiences.

.In October, the weather is marked by warmer daytime highs and clear blue skies, favorable for people who love to go outdoors. Unlike the monsoon season, October receives very little rainfall, and hence, there are no chances of risks related to slippery trails or heavy downpours.

November in Nepal marks the seasonal transition from autumn to winter, characterized by brilliant blue skies and a meager chance of precipitation. The temperature at this time of the year is stable, making it a good time for trekking during the day, while the temperature at night is not as cold as at the very peak of winter. Also, this month is less crowded on the trails compared to the high season, when the trail is primarily free and allows for a more calm and comfortable hiking experience.

Preparations For Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek 2024

Some preparation is required for the trek to Mani Rimdu festival in the Everest region. This unique Buddhist celebration happens once a year, so you'll want to be ready.

Book in Advance

First, book your trek 4-6 months in advance, especially if traveling in October or November when the festival occurs. Tea houses and lodges fill up quickly, and you'll need time to obtain the permits for the Everest region. You'll need to be in Namche Bazaar for the 3-day festival, so factor that into your itinerary.

Train in Advance

Train for the high altitudes of the Everest trek. You'll be hiking at elevations of 3,000-5,000+ meters, so prepare your body in advance. Start an exercise routine, do cardio and strength training. If possible, spend time at higher elevations in the months before your trek. Staying hydrated and avoiding alcohol/cigarettes also helps with acclimatization.

Packing.

Pack essential gear like a sleeping bag, layers of warm clothing, a waterproof jacket, hiking boots, sunglasses, sunscreen, etc. Temperatures can drop below freezing at night, even in October, so be prepared for various conditions. Carry a reusable water bottle, as plastic bottles are banned in the Everest region. Don't forget a camera to capture the festival and stunning mountain scenery.

Get Knowledge about Mani Rimdu festival

earn about Buddhist traditions and the Mani Rimdu festival. This spiritual event celebrates Buddhism's victory over ancient Bon animism in the Himalayas. Witness elaborate masked dances, chanting, and ceremonies at Tengboche Monastery. Showing respect for the local Buddhist culture will make your experience more meaningful.

Difficulty Level 

The Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek difficulty level can be described as moderate. So, you'll want to ensure you're in decent shape before setting out. This high-altitude trek reaches up to 13,000 feet, so physical preparation is essential. You don't need to be an elite athlete, but if you lead a relatively sedentary lifestyle, get regular cardio exercise a few months before your trek.

Physical Fitness Consideration

Going on long walks, using an inclined treadmill, stair climbing, and strength training will all help increase your endurance and prepare your legs for the hikes. It's also a good idea to start doing breathing exercises to acclimate yourself to lower oxygen levels. The fitter you are, the more you'll enjoy this trek and be able to experience the local culture and stunning scenery fully.

On Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek, you should be comfortable walking 4 to 6 hours daily on uneven, hilly terrain while carrying a light backpack. The trails can be steep in places, so be prepared for a challenge. The highest elevation you'll reach is Kala Patthar at 18,192 feet, so altitude sickness is a risk. Go slowly, stay hydrated, and look out for symptoms like headaches, nausea, and dizziness. Your guide will help ensure your safety, but you must honestly assess your fitness and be willing to turn back if needed.

Trekking poles, proper footwear, layers of warm clothing, sunglasses, and a hat are essential equipment for this trek. Be prepared for temperatures ranging from warm during the day to very cold at night and potential rain or snow. A positive attitude and adventurous spirit are also must-haves. 

\While demanding, the Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek will reward you with a profound experience in the Himalayas and memories that last a lifetime. You'll be ready to take on this rewarding challenge by adequately preparing yourself physically and mentally.

Tea House Accommodation Service on Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek

Once you start the trek to the Everest Mani Rimdu Festival, you'll stay in traditional Nepali tea houses each night. These tea houses, also known as trekking lodges, offer basic but comfortable accommodations along the trail. As you hike from village to village, the tea houses become more sparse the higher you climb.

Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek route tea houses usually have twin-share rooms with two single beds and a shared bathroom. Blankets and pillows are provided, but I recommend bringing your sleeping bag for warmth and hygiene. Some tea houses may have dorm-style rooms if you're trekking solo or on a budget. The rooms are simple but Cosy, lit by candlelight due to the lack of electricity. 

Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek route toilet facilities along the trail become more essential as you climb higher. Many tea houses only have squat toilets, so be prepared for that. Most do not have showers, though some offer hot bucket baths for an extra charge. We highly recommend packing wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and toilet paper with you.

The tea houses are run by Sherpa families who live in the villages year-round. They work hard to provide trekkers with basic comforts in a harsh landscape. Please treat the staff and accommodations with kindness and respect. Leaving a small tip in the donation box is always appreciated.

Meals During Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek

On the 12-day Everest Mani Rimdu Festival trek, you'll be energized by delicious traditional Sherpa meals. At teahouse lodges, you'll enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. A typical breakfast dish is Sherpa bread with honey, chapatis, porridge, eggs, and potatoes. Lunch and dinner usually contain soup or stew, rice, and a curry dish with vegetables and spices. Meat such as chicken, pork, or buffalo may occasionally be served. 

The kitchen staff do their best with the limited ingredients available at high altitudes. The menu options decrease as you trek higher on  Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek, but you'll still find rice, lentil soup, and noodles. Most tea houses offer set meals for a fixed price, including a starter, primary, and dessert.

With each meal you savor on Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek, you'll be offered tasty tea like milk tea, lemon tea, or ginger tea to warm you up. And, of course, no meal is complete without trying chang, a homebrewed barley beer, or Rakshi, a distilled millet alcohol. The Sherpa people are known for their hospitality and will make you feel at home sharing meals.

Some recommended local dishes to try are:

  • Dhal Bhat - Lentil soup, rice, curried vegetables and pickles. It's a staple dish in Nepal, perfectly balanced in nutrition.
  • Momos - Steamed dumplings are usually filled with minced meat and vegetables. They are delicious and satisfy hunger pangs on the trail.
  • Chow Mein - Stir-fried noodles with meat and veggies. It's a popular dish with a Nepali twist. 
  • Thukpa - Noodle soup, usually with meat and vegetables. Hearty and comforting.

The meals during your trek will be a highlight, exposing you to unique Sherpa cuisine using locally grown ingredients. And the stunning views from the lodges won't hurt either. By the end of your trek, you'll be well-versed in traditional Sherpa fare to share with friends and family back home—an experience of a lifetime, one delicious bite at a time.

Will I Get Altitude Sickness on Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek?

You may have a problem with altitude sickness on Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek as The Tengboche monastery lies pretty high, reaching about 3870 meters. The general guideline suggests climbers not to ascend more than 1500 – 1000 meters within 24 hours while at an altitude of over 3000 meters. The mild symptoms might include shortness of breath.

In more severe cases of high altitude sickness, headache, dizziness, difficulty while sleeping, breathing difficulties, loss of appetite, and nausea may appear. Don't rush yourself, and pay attention to these symptoms. Similarly, if you see these symptoms, inform your guide immediately. 

The acclimatization process of the Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek can be facilitated by going from Lukla to Jiri or flying to Lukla. The critical thing here is to give yourself at least a rest day in Namche bazaar. Here are some of the preventive measures for altitude sickness below. 

The use of the drug known as Diamox could be beneficial in helping your body adjust to the high altitude but will not treat symptoms if you get sick. This is the only right way to do it - to go down to the lowland as fast as possible in case altitude sickness occurs. 

Mani Rimdu Festival Etiquette to Follow as Foreigner 

On  Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek, you will most likely be welcomed warmly as a foreigner and have a chance to taste genuine Tibetan hospitality if you attend the Mani Rimdu festival. Though it is a religious event, the Sherpa community has invited the public to grace the occasion. In those fantastic dances, you'll find that most people observing are also tourists. Participation will be welcomed, and you will have a chance to be blessed by the high Rinpoche the day before the Empowerment ceremony.

Since Tengboche is one of the significant stopovers along the famous trail to Everest Base Camp, the community here has witnessed many tourists and knows that we are not always familiar with their customs. As a result, they are quite forgiving even when you accidentally make cultural blunders. 

Pay attention to the clothing style when visiting Nepal, although this doesn't matter much at a high altitude level.  It is advisable to wear layered clothes to remain warm in the cold weather.

Throughout the events on  Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek, keep respectful conduct by keeping the noise down and away from the ceremonial items. Photographing the dances where the dancers wear masks is usually okay. However, asking the people individually before snapping close-up pictures of them would be best.

Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek Safety and Tips

Remember the following safety tips and recommendations to ensure an enjoyable trekking experience at the Everest Mani Rimdu Festival.

  • Prepare by doing cardio exercises like walking, jogging, or biking 3-4 times a week for at least 30 minutes in the months leading up to your trip. 
  • High altitudes mean less oxygen, so take it slow once you start trekking. 
  • Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration and altitude sickness.
  • The weather can be unpredictable, especially at higher elevations. Be ready for potential snow, rain, or cold temperatures. 
  • Book your trek with a reputable company that provides an experienced English-speaking guide. They will ensure your safety, handle permits and accommodations, and share insights into the local culture. 
  • Listen carefully to your guide's recommendations regarding rest days or descending to lower altitudes if needed.
  • Respect the local beliefs and customs. Dress and behave conservatively, especially at monasteries. 
  • Photography may be restricted in certain areas, so always ask first. 
  • While tempting, avoid giving money, food, or gifts directly to children. Donate to reputable charities instead. 
  • Support the local economy by purchasing souvenirs from authorized vendors.

FAQs

  • Q1. Can I combine the Everest Base Camp Trek with the Mani Rimdu Festival Trek?

    Yes, we can customize the itinerary to include both the Everest Base Camp Trek and the Mani Rimdu Festival Trek, allowing you to experience the best of both.

  • The Mani Rimdu Festival is a vibrant Buddhist festival celebrated by the Sherpa community in the Everest region. It features colorful masked dances, religious ceremonies, and cultural performances.

  • The festival typically lasts for 19 days. But out of 19, only the last three days will be publicly held, with various ceremonies and performances occurring throughout the event.

  • Yes, the Mani Rimdu Festival is open to both locals and tourists. Visitors are welcome to witness the ceremonies and participate in the festivities.

  • The best time to do the Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek is during the autumn months of October and November when the weather is clear and the festival takes place.

  • Yes, you will need permits to trek in the Everest region, including the Mani Rimdu Festival Trek. Our team will assist you in obtaining the necessary permits for your journey.

  • Yes, we offer customizable itineraries for the Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek to suit your preferences, interests, and schedule. Contact us, and we'll design a tailor-made trekking experience for you.

  • While prior trekking experience is beneficial, it is not strictly necessary for the Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek. However, a reasonable level of fitness and preparation is advisable.

  • You can book the trek through our website or by contacting our team directly. We'll assist you in planning your adventure and ensuring a memorable experience.

  • Yes, the festival features colourful masked dances performed by monks, depicting various religious stories and teachings.

Client Reviews

  • Great Experience

    I am incredibly pleased with the unsurpassed standard of service provided by Mountain Rock Treks. They did everything necessary and even more while ensuring we were all taken care of and received all the help we needed. If you plan to trek or tour Nepal, Mountain Rock Treks should be your first consideration for a lifetime trip. Among many other places, I can not forget to mention the Everest region, especially the Mani Rimdu festival, which is also worthy of attendance if you are looking for something exceptional. The fusion of cultural vibrancy and wonderful nature was one of a kind. There will be nothing to regret if you allow yourself to walk around the exciting festivals and charming sceneries. 

    E
    Elise BlackFinlandDecember 21, 2023
  • Unforgettable Moments

    With Mountain Rock Treks, I had a truly unique and epic experience. It was my friend who recommended it, and now I realise why. The most memorable part of our trip for us was the excellent guide we had. They were knowledgeable as well as friendly. Their knowledge made us safe and increased our understanding of the local place and customs. My trip with Mountain Rock Treks exceeded my expectations because they gave me a great guide and first-class service.

    E
    Enzo RiceCanadaDecember 10, 2023
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