Namche Bazaar (3440 m) is the unofficial capital of the Khumbu region of Nepal. It is a major stop-off point in the heart of the Himalayas for trekkers and climbers heading for Mount Everest base camp. The village is located on crescent-shaped mountain slopes that offer gorgeous views of the mountains across the valley. The village is nestled high above the flowing waters of the Dudh Kosi river, in the shadow of Mt. Kongde. Most climbers stay at the village for two to three days to acclimatize to the weather before embarking on the climb.
The popularity of this little village increased exponentially with the traction of the Everest Base Camp Trek as it transformed from a sleepy little rural mountain village into a vibrant town full of urban amenities. It attracts adventure enthusiasts from around the world.
The village is the home of the Sherpa community. Its colorful markets stand out, reflecting an amalgamation of the East and West. Historically, it was a famous trading hub for its homemade yak cheese and butter. In its lanes, you can find locals selling beautiful trinkets and souvenirs, a testament to the rich Tibetan culture. These shops are interspersed with German Cafés and Italian Baristas. Imagine having a steaming cup of cappuccino or hot chocolate to travel-weary against the stunning backdrop of snow-capped peaks and surrounded by brightly colored Tibetan prayer flags adorning the streets. The shops and the decor give the entire village a festive look. Over two centuries ago, the Sherpas crossed the high mountain passes of Tibet in search of greener pastures. With their yak herds along their trail, they finally settled in the beautiful high-altitude alpine forests in the shadow of Everest, which is now known as Namche Bazar.
The beautiful accommodations, the Sherpa’s trail to Nepal,the markets, the trek to the Everest Region are brilliant tourist attractions and the major source of revenue for the Namche Bazar inhabitants. However, the hottest spot in town is probably the Irish Pub in Namche Bazaar, known as 'the Gateway to Everest', which is the highest Irish pub in the world. The remotest Irish pub in the world was closed during the pandemic but it has now reopened its doors. Above the Irish Pub’s doors, a sign proudly hangs that says “There are no strangers here, only friends.”
The Irish pub is a great place for tourists from across the globe and for locals to enjoy their rest days. One can hear and exchange several stories of travel and adventure, sipping on the finest Irish spirits such as Jameson, Erin’s Rock, St Brendan's, Baileys, and many more. The facilities in the pubs include a large bar and fireplace, as well as soccer tables, pool tables, and a wide-screen television with national and international channels. The idea is to create an old-school pub atmosphere. It is the only pub in the area that serves yak meat.
So what are you waiting for? Plan your next vacation here. The best way to reach the proverbial Shangri-La is to take a flight to the airport, Lukla, and trek to Namche Bazar. The journey might be strenuous but the memories you shall make in this place will be unforgettable.
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