The short answer
Namche is the main Sherpa market town of the Khumbu, at about 3,440 m. Nearly everyone heading to Everest passes through and stays at least two nights, because the town is where bodies begin adjusting to altitude.
Key facts
- Altitude
- About 3,440 m
- Role
- Gateway town and acclimatisation stop
- Market day
- Saturday market (check locally)
- View
- Everest, Lhotse and Ama Dablam on clear days
Why Namche matters for your body and trip
Namche sits at about 3,440 m and is the first major rise in height for most trekkers. Staying two nights lets you do a short climb to a viewpoint or a nearby village and return to sleep lower, a method that helps your body adapt. It also gives you time to explore the bazaar, museum and monastery.
Lodges offer bakeries, gear shops and cafes with strong coffee and wifi that is often slow and paid. This is the last place with a good choice of supplies.
How to spend a rest day
A sensible rest day is a short walk, not a rest in bed. Hike gently to a viewpoint, then drink water, eat well and sleep. Avoid alcohol and heavy partying, which dehydrate you.
If you feel unwell, tell your guide early, and do not climb higher until symptoms ease. See altitude quick answers.
Insider tip
Use the rest day for a short climb to Everest View or the Sherpa museum, rather than staying in your room. Active rest helps more than lying down.
Avoid this
Do not rush through. Skipping the acclimatisation day is the most common reason people struggle higher up.
Related questions
Is Namche worth a visit without trekking further?
Yes. A helicopter or a short flight plus a night in Namche gives you the culture without the full trek.
How many days to get there?
On foot from Lukla, usually two days; a helicopter can reach Namche or near it in under an hour.
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