Thame
In Nepali: थामे
Thame lies on the old trade route towards the Nangpa La and Tibet, a day's easy walk from Namche along the Bhote Koshi. Tenzing Norgay spent his childhood here, and the village has produced many of the best-known Everest Sherpas.
Thame Gompa, built against the cliff above the village, is one of the oldest monasteries in the Khumbu. Its Mani Rimdu festival is held in May. The valley is also the start of the Renjo La crossing to Gokyo.
What to see and do
Climb to Thame Gompa above the village for the view down the valley and a look at its old prayer hall. The village itself has scattered stone houses among fields, and a small hydropower station. Further up the valley are summer settlements and the approach to the Nangpa La and Tashi Lapcha passes.
Good to know
Thame lies on the Three Passes route: from here trekkers cross the Renjo La (about 5,360 m) to Gokyo. The monastery's Mani Rimdu takes place in spring (May), a quieter alternative to Tengboche's autumn festival. Lodges are simple and friendly.
Quick answers
- Where is Thame?
- Thame is in Solukhumbu district, Koshi Province, in the Himal belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Thame?
- About 3,820 m (12,533 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Thame?
- For a 7-day trip from Kathmandu, about NPR 92,000 (≈ US$680) per person on a budget, or NPR 101,500 (≈ US$750) with standard hotels and private transport — for two foreign visitors sharing, including transport, stay, food, entry fees, a guide and porter. Nepali visitors on a budget: about NPR 38,500 per person. These are estimates; adjust them in the trip planner.
- How many days do I need for Thame?
- Plan 5 nights there for the trek; with travel from Kathmandu and back, about 7 days in all.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Thame?
- Foreign visitors pay about NPR 5,000 / US$37 to enter Sagarmatha National Park plus the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu municipality fee (SAARC visitors about half, Nepali citizens a small fee).
- Do I need a guide for Thame?
- Yes, for foreign trekkers: since 2023 a licensed guide is required in Nepal’s national parks and conservation areas. Nepali trekkers may go on their own.
- When is the best time to visit Thame?
- April–May (Mani Rimdu); October–November
- How do I get to Thame?
- 4–5 hours' walk west from Namche. It is about 131 km (straight line) from Kathmandu, and usually reached by flight.
- What is Thame called in Nepali?
- थामे
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