Trekking in the eastern region of Nepal provides a wide range of wilderness and cultural encounters - especially in the Everest region. There are those who wish to reach the highest point on earth. While there are those who choose to live out their dreams by standing at the foot of Mt. Everest (8,848 m). Still others prefer a middle ground south of the Khumbu such as Solu.
Walking through the middle hills of Solu and trekking in the higher altitudes of the Khumbu to the base of Sagarmatha, or Mt. Everest, the world's highest peak, is an opportunity to observe and participate in the daily life of the legendary Sherpa people. The Sherpa people who rank among the hardiest and most egalitarian people in the world are as great an attraction as the mountains.

Solu, or Sho Rung as the Sherpas know it extendsfrom Jiri to Dudh Kosi River in the east. The climate is temperate, forests and pasturelands are well watered, the farmlands cultivated with maize, wheat, barley and apples.

Buddhist lamas, monks and nuns led by Rinpoches (reincarnate lamas) serve the predominantly Sherpa communities from gompas (monasteries). Solu has two separate destinations, Pikey and the Dudhkunda Cultural Trail. While it is also a path to the high country of Khumbu, Solu invites a leisurely pace. Spring rhododendron and magnolia blooms are more profuse here than almost anywhere in Nepal. Solu used to be part of the traditional route used by early Everest expeditions., but nowadays treks begin from Jiri (1,905 m, 6,250 ft.) cutting several days off the old trail that began from Lamosangu. Frequent lodges and wholesome meals allow the independent trekker to travel light. Campers have more flexibility to get off the beaten track.

Beyond Solu and recognized as a World Heritage Site, the Sagarmatha National Park in the Khumbu is one of the few places on earth that has a unique bio-diversity and the highest and youngest mountain system in the world. For those with sufficient time, a 10-12 day trek through Solu to the Khumbu and the Sagarmatha National Park is an excellent itinerary both in terms of acclimatization and to experience the changing customs, traditions, and lifestyles as you pass through lower altitude settlements to those in the higher altitudes.

A part of the Himalayan ecological zone, the Park was added to the list of World Heritage Sites in 1979 and is spread over 1,148 sq. km. in the Khumbu region. The Park contains three of the world's seven highest mountains Sagarmatha or Mt. Everest, Lhotse, and Cho Oyu and is also home to several other prominent peaks most of which are above 6,000 meters. Climbers and trekkers continue to trek to Everest Base Camp and not surprisingly the "Roof of the World" continues to be the scene of some of mountaineering's most significant accomplishments and a favored haven for alpine enthusiasts.

Mt. Everest is the prime attraction of Solukhumbu. New trekking trails: Dudhkunda-Khaling Rai-Pikey Trail, offer additional choices and a peek at the Himalayan lifestyle, culture and a wide range of nature experience.