Holding the title of one of the world's most extreme airports, Tenzing-Hillary Airport is an attraction in itself. The flight from Kathmandu into its short, angled runway, which ends abruptly at a cliff edge, is a heart-pounding experience that offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Watching the small Dornier and Twin Otter planes navigate the challenging landing and takeoff is a spectacle and marks the official, dramatic start or end of any trek in the Khumbu valley. It's named after the first two men to summit Mount Everest, Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa.

This ornate archway serves as the official entrance to Lukla town and the Sagarmatha National Park trekking trails. It's a symbolic portal for trekkers, filled with excitement as they pass through it at the beginning of their journey and a sense of profound accomplishment upon their return. The gate is dedicated to Pasang Lhamu Sherpa, the first Nepali woman to summit Mount Everest, who tragically died during her descent. It's a popular spot for that quintessential 'start of the trek' photograph.

Nestled slightly above the main town, the Lukla Monastery offers a peaceful sanctuary and a deep dive into local Sherpa Buddhism. Visitors can admire the intricate traditional artwork, ornate statues, and colorful thangkas inside. The sound of chanting monks and the scent of incense provide a serene escape from the bustle of the main trekking path. It's a wonderful place to acclimatize and reflect before heading into the mountains, offering a glimpse into the spiritual life that is deeply woven into the fabric of the Khumbu region.

Located a relatively easy three to four-hour trek from Lukla, Phakding is the first overnight stop for most trekkers on the Everest Base Camp trail. Situated on the banks of the glacial Dudh Koshi river, this charming village is filled with welcoming teahouses and lodges. It's the perfect introduction to the Sherpa way of life and the teahouse trekking culture. Spending a night here helps with acclimatization and allows you to fall asleep to the soothing sound of the rushing river.

Just before reaching Phakding, you'll cross one of the first of many iconic, high-flying suspension bridges that characterize the Everest Base Camp trek. Adorned with colorful prayer flags that flutter in the wind, these bridges span deep gorges over the milky, turquoise waters of the Dudh Koshi (Milk River). The experience of crossing one, with yaks and porters often sharing the swaying path, is a quintessential Khumbu adventure and offers fantastic photo opportunities.

The main street of Lukla is a vibrant, bustling market where trekkers make their final preparations. The stone-paved path is lined with shops selling everything from authentic trekking gear and woolen hats to souvenir t-shirts and Tibetan prayer bowls. It's the last chance to grab any forgotten essentials, from sunscreen to batteries. The atmosphere is energetic, a mix of commerce, local life, and the shared anticipation of the adventure ahead.

Claiming to be one of the highest Irish pubs on the planet, this establishment in Lukla is a legendary spot for post-trek celebrations. After weeks in the mountains, trekkers flock here to enjoy a cold beer, a game of pool, and share stories of their journey with fellow adventurers. The walls are covered with memorabilia and signed t-shirts from expeditions past, creating a unique and festive atmosphere of camaraderie and triumph.

A small, picturesque settlement located between Lukla and Phakding, Ghat is a spiritual and scenic highlight of the first day's trek. The trail here is lined with numerous large Mani stones, intricately carved with the Buddhist mantra 'Om Mani Padme Hum'. You'll also find large prayer wheels housed in small stupas, which trekkers are encouraged to spin clockwise for good fortune on their journey. It's a beautiful, culturally rich section of the trail.

While not an official Starbucks, this well-known bakery and cafe is a beloved landmark, humorously nicknamed 'the highest Starbucks in the world.' It's the perfect spot to grab a surprisingly good cappuccino, apple pie, or chocolate brownie before you leave civilization behind. For many, it's a final taste of comfort and a popular meeting point before or after a trek, offering free Wi-Fi and a cozy place to relax.

Just a short walk above the main town or near the airport runway, several points offer stunning panoramic views of Lukla nestled in the valley. On a clear day, you can see surrounding peaks like Kongde Ri and the dramatic landscape of the Dudh Koshi valley. It's an excellent spot for photography, especially in the early morning light, capturing the unique setting of this famous mountain town and the planes taking off for their return journey to Kathmandu.