Everest Base Camp Trek
- 14
days
The Everest Base Camp trek leads to the world’s most dramatic, majestic, and picturesque in the Himalayas. It is one of the most renowned treks of Nepal that takes to the base of the world’s highest peak, Mt. Everest. Trek through the alpine region on remote ridges, experience true wilderness, explore Everest Base Camp, climb Kala Patthar- one of the best vantage points of Khumbu valley, and enjoy the best sunrise view over majestic peaks are some major highlights of Everest Base Camp trek.
This 14 days itinerary of Everest Base Camp is a perfect blend of picturesque views of many of the world’s highest mountains and fascinating Sherpa culture. This adventurous trek starts with a short flight from kathmandu to Lukla, a beautiful Sherpa town. From the very beginning of the trek, you’ll get amazed with fabulous views of the mighty Himalayas as you will witness the first captivating mountain views during this short mountain flight from Kathmandu to Lukla.
After landing at Lukla, you’ll start your actual Everest trek journey. Walking through well-established trails, you will access different Sherpa settlements such as Phakding, Namche, Tengboche, Dingboche, and Gorakshep. In this EBC journey, you’ll not only hike through valleys surrounded by picturesque snow-capped mountains, but also you’ll get a deep insight into the Sherpa culture and traditions. Along the Everest Base Camp route, there is plenty to explore and assimilate. Every day will astound you with a wondrous experience!
Another prominent feature of this trek is a hike to Kala Patthar (5,550m/18,204ft) It is one of the best vantage points to get a close-up view of the world’s tallest peak Mt. Everest. This Kala Patthar viewpoint is also the trek’s highest point, from where you’ll get jaw-dropping views of some of the world’s tallest peaks above 8,000 meters. You’ll get a 360-degree panoramic mountain view, including Mt. Everest, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Pumori, and Mt. Ama Dablam. So you can proudly stand at this viewpoint and get the world’s best sight ever in your life!
Likewise, the Everest Base Camp trek difficulty level is moderate to difficult. However, if you are physically fit and mentally strong, you can complete this trek with a bit of preparation. No doubt, the EBC trek will test both your physical and emotional endurance, but you’ll discover both throughout the journey. Everest Base Camp Trek 14 days itinerary offers a big chance to turn your dreams into reality and challenge yourself. In this journey, you’ll be able to discover both natural beauty and your potential.
The trek is doable all year round, but the best time for the trek is autumn and spring. During the climbing season, which lies between April and May, you’ll get a chance to meet real heroes of mountains who are trying to scale Mt. Everest.
The trip's price depends on the type of services chosen by our clients and the group size. The cost of each trip we organize is different because we see travelers as individuals having their own particular needs and preferences.
Get ready for an incredible journey tailored to your interests and preferences, whether you're looking for a budget-friendly adventure or a luxurious getaway. Leave the planning to us as we take care of all the details, ensuring your dream trip becomes a reality. You can relax and focus on creating unforgettable memories that will stay with you forever.
Werner Berger
|
June 14, 2024
Ian Bell
|
June 14, 2024
Anita Leung
|
June 13, 2024
Peter Puglia
|
June 12, 2024
Laurie Puglia
|
June 05, 2024
| Day | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) - Transfer to Hotel and Trek Preparation |
| Day 2 | Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,840m/9,316ft) and trek to Phakding (2,610m/8,561ft) - 35 minutes flight, 3 to 4 hours (8 km) trek |
| Day 3 | Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazar (3,440m/11,284ft) - 6 to 7 hours (10.5 km) trek |
| Day 4 | First Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,284ft) - 3 to 4 hours trek |
| Day 5 | Trek from Namche to Tengboche (3,860m/12,661ft) - 5 to 6 hours (10 km) trek |
| Day 6 | Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche (4,410m/14,465ft) - 5 to 6 hours (11 km) trek |
| Day 7 | Second Acclimatization Day at Dingboche (4,410m/14,465ft) - 4 to 5 hours (4.5 km) trek |
| Day 8 | Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche (4,910m/16,105ft) - 5 to 6 hours (8 km) trek |
| Day 9 | Trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5,140m/16,860ft) and visit Everest Base Camp (5,364m/17,594ft) - 7 to 8 hours (12 km) trek |
| Day 10 | Hike to Kala Patthar (5550m/18,204ft) and descend to Pheriche (4,240m/13,908ft) - 6 to 7 hours (12 km) trek |
| Day 11 | Trek from Pheriche to Namche (3,440m/11,284ft) - 7 to 8 hours (19 km) trek |
| Day 12 | Trek from Namche to Lukla (2,840m/9,316ft) - 6 to 7 hours (18.5 km) trek |
| Day 13 | Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) - 35 minutes flight |
| Day 14 | Final Departure |
Everest Base Camp Trek Map
On arrival, our representative will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel. After checking in, meet your trek leader and other team members. A briefing on your upcoming adventure will follow. Clear your doubts if you have any. Check your gear, do some last-minute shopping or stroll down Thamel, a prominent tourist hub.
We recommend you to schedule your arrival to Kathmandu in the morning or during day time. This will give you ample time to rest and recover from jet lag before you begin your Everest Adventure. Note you have an early morning flight to catch for Lukla tomorrow. Arriving early (to Kathmandu) will also allow you to attend the pre-trek briefing.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Today you fly to Lukla. Your Everest adventure begins with a thrilling flight to Lukla, a charming mountainside Sherpa settlement. Once in Lukla, meet the rest of the crew. Sort out your belongings, pack your gear, and begin your trek.
Walkthrough Chauri Kharka village and descend towards the Dudh Koshi river. The scenic trail follows the bank of the river until Phakding (2,610m), a small Sherpa village nestled in the verdant Dudh Koshi Valley. En route, you get a glimpse of Khumbila, a sacred peak worshipped by the Sherpas. This is one of the few unclimbed peaks in the Khumbu region, as no one is allowed to step on this sacred peak.
If you are not too tired, stroll around the village, interact with the locals, or head to one of the cafes and enjoy a hot brew or drink.
Overnight in Phakding.
Namche Bazaar - Sherpa capital of Nepal
Set off to Namche Bazaar, better known as the “Sherpa capital” of Nepal. The track crosses over the milky glacial river of Dudh Koshi. Walk above a suspension bridge, and the beautiful pine forest up to Monjo. You get to cross several suspension bridges including the famous Hillary Suspension bridge! Get your permits ready for a check after approaching the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park.
Trek further down alongside to Dudh Koshi River up to Jorsale where we have lunch. After some rest, it is a bit of a tough climb up the hill till Namche Bazaar, the economic hub of the Everest Region. Brace yourself as you catch the first glimpse of Mount Everest in all its glory from a vantage point known as Tope Danda.
Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
Spend a day at Namche Bazaar. This is your first acclimatization day. As you reach higher, your body needs to get acclimatized to the thin air at higher altitudes. Known as the Sherpa capital, the settlement is the economic hub of the Everest Region.
Here you will find some of the best bakeries, cafes, restaurants, shops, and the only ATM at this altitude in the Everest Region. Namche’s ‘Saturday Market’ is famous throughout Khumbu. Traders from all over Everest Region come to Namche to sell their wares at the Saturday Market. Mingle with the genial locals or hike up to any of the vantage points for incredible views of the Himalayas.
You can take an early morning hike to Sagarmatha National Park for a mesmerizing Himalayan sunrise. Watch the sun rays lighting up the snow-covered peaks of Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Kongde, and Lhotse. Want to know more about Himalayan culture?
Head to the Sherpa Culture Museum and get an insight into Sherpa traditions and culture. An uphill ascent to Everest View Hotel via Shyangboche Airport serves as a good acclimatization climb while offering you close-up views of Mount Everest, Thamserku, and Ama Dablam.
If you feel like it, you can hike over to Khumjung and Kunde villages. Visit the very first school in the Everest Region established by Sir Edmund Hillary in Khumjung. Khumjung Monastery, which is more than 400 hundred years old, has on display what is believed to be the scalp of Yeti, the abominable snowman. You can also visit the Hillary Hospital in Kunde.
Overnight in Namche Bazaar
Tengboche Monastery - the largest monastery in the Everest region.
Today’s trail offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges. Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Kwangde are some of the Himalayan giants you will see while you trek. The walkthrough juniper and rhododendron forests with the giant peaks looming overhead make this a memorable hike.
Today’s trek ends at the Sherpa village of Tengboche. One can enjoy a close view of Ama Dablam, renowned as one of the most beautiful peaks in the world, from Tengboche. Tengboche Monastery, the largest Buddhist monastery in the Khumbu region, looms over the village.
Visit the monastery and feel the calmness of the place descend over you. Listen to the trance-inducing hum and chants of the monks. Moreover, the golden rays of the sun brushing over the snowy mountains, including Ama Dablam and Thamserku, during sunrise and sunset is not to be missed.
Overnight in Tengboche.
You cross over to the plains and the Imja Khola (River) towards Pangboche. The village has the biggest as well as the highest permanent settlement of Sherpas in the region. The typical Sherpa village ambiance and the local food will keep you amused! In the afternoon head towards Dingboche. You can enjoy inspiring views of Island Peak and Ama Dablam.
Overnight in Dingboche.
We take a day off in Dingboche to acclimatize to the high altitude. This is your second acclimatization day. A popular stop for trekkers and climbers headed to Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, or ImjaTse; there’s a lot to do here.
After breakfast, take an acclimatization hike to Nagarjun Hill (5,100m) near the village. It is an upward hike with no technical sections. There may be some loose rocks, and you may have to watch your step as you scramble on some sections. But no technical climbing is required, and apart from the altitude, there's nothing you need to worry about.
Named after a Buddhist hermitage that lies on the hill, Nangkatshang or Nagarjun is one of the best viewpoints in the Khumbu region. One can enjoy incredible 360-degree views of Makalu, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Kantega, Thamserku, etc. The best views are of Ama Dablam (one can see the whole mountain, from the base to the summit) and Island Peak. You can also get a close-up view of the Imja glacier from here.
In the late afternoon, you can take a rest or stroll around the village.
Overnight in Dingboche.
Continue over craggy mountain terrain to reach Lobuche, a small settlement with outstanding Lobuche, Pumori, and Nuptse views. Because of the high altitude, you may find walking a bit difficult. En route, stop for lunch at the small village of Thukla (4,600m).
At Thukla Pass, we stop by and pay our respects at the memorial stupas built in honor of mountaineers who lost their lives while climbing Mount Everest. Among the stone memorials dedicated to alpinists Scott Fischer, Rob Hall, and the record-breaking climbing Sherpa Late Babu Chiri Sherpa stand out. The ill-fated Everest expedition where Scott Fischer and Rob Hall lost their lives has been described in John Krakauer's book "Into Thin Air" and made into a feature-length movie named "Everest."
From the trail, one can view the peaks bordering Nepal and Tibet. Lobuche is made up of a small number of local homes and teahouses offering basic facilities. The nights will get colder, so it is wise to cover yourself up as you are now almost three miles above sea level.
Overnight in Lobuche.
One the way to Gorekshep from Lobuche
Today your dream of getting to the base of the world's highest peak turns into a reality. Yes, today's hike takes you to EBC, the destination you have been dreaming of since the start of your adventure!
Though challenging and tough, today's walk is one of the most memorable walks in your entire journey. As the elevation rises and the oxygen level drops, you find yourself getting weaker physically. Take it slow and steady, and follow your guide. It takes only a couple of hours to reach Gorak Shep. Once there, grab some refreshments, leave your heavy stuff at your teahouse and hike up to Everest Base Camp.
Walk alongside the Khumbu Glacier. There are loose stones and gravel, and you should be careful where you step. The stunning Khumbu Glacier and icefall, located on the slopes of Everest, will leave you awe-struck. The views are out of this world at the final ascent to the Everest Base Camp, an ideal place to take ‘selfies.’
If you happen to make this trek during the climbing season, you may get the chance to meet some famous climbers or celebrities attempting an Everest ascent. Later, return to Gorak Shep. Overnight in Gorak Shep.
Note: As Kala Patthar lies towards the west, the sunset views are pretty amazing from this vantage point. If the weather is clear and you feel like first heading to Kala Patthar, you can intimate your guide. You can visit EBC on Day 10. But do let your guide make the final decision, as he is the only expert who can determine the best course of action.
Overnight in Lobuche.
After breakfast, head towards Kala Patthar, the most popular viewpoint in the Everest Region. Kala Patthar is the highest point of your trek at 5,550 meters. Since the summit of Mount Everest is not visible from Everest Base Camp, trekkers usually hike to Kala Patthar to get a close-up view of the world’s tallest peak.
Kala Patthar is surrounded by icy walls of Mount Pumori, Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse. Enjoy a 360-degree view of these Himalayan giants. Watch the fiery rays of the sun lighting the rocky pinnacle of Mount Everest from atop the Kala Patthar. Later, return to Gorak Shep and head down towards Pheriche.
Overnight in Pheriche.
It is comparatively an easy downhill trek from Pheriche to Tengboche. After an hour of scaling a hill, by late afternoon, you will reach Namche Bazaar. Soak in the experiences and take a good night’s rest.
Overnight in Namche.
Today's walk brings you to Lukla again. After breakfast, trek towards the Hillary Suspension Bridge and then through several local villages till Lukla. In Lukla, you can celebrate your conquest! This would officially be your last night in the mountains. We are sure you will experience the joy and celebrate the bonds that you have made.
Overnight in Lukla.
Lukla Airport
The scenic flight from Lukla to Kathmandu is like a dessert after a heavy dinner. After landing in Kathmandu you will be escorted to your hotel. Take rest or go shopping for souvenirs. There are shops around the vicinity of your hotel selling handicraft items and locally made trinkets and clothes.
Ason, the oldest market in Kathmandu also lies a few hundred meters from your hotel. You can shop for spices, tea, brass statues, and decorative jars in this market. If you wish to take a guided cultural tour do let us know.
In the evening, celebrate the completion of your adventure with a complimentary farewell dinner. Overnight in Kathmandu.
This is your last day in Nepal. Our representative will drop you off at the airport three hours before your flight is scheduled to depart. Let us know if you wish to explore more of the Himalayas. We have a vast array of itineraries to amazing destinations for travelers bitten by the travel bug, just like you!
Spring (March to May) and autumn (mid-September to November) are considered the best seasons to trek to Everest Base Camp. The weather stays dry and clear during these times, making it ideal for trekking and enjoying unobstructed views of mountains. The days are warm and the nights chilly. On the downside, however, these are peak seasons, and the trails get crowded and busy.
During spring, the hillsides are verdant and covered with wildflowers, including rhododendron blooms. It is also the climbing season, and the EBC is transformed into a tented city filled with climbers and Sherpa guides.
Autumn is the most popular season for trekking to Everest Base Camp. With the end of the wet monsoon season, which clears the skies of dust and impurities, you can enjoy crystal clear views during this season. Timing your trek around October will allow you to experience the most important festival in the Everest region, Mani Rimdu. This festival is held in the monasteries of Tengboche, Chiwong, and Thame.
You can also opt for a monsoon or winter trek if you want to avoid the crowds. You can enjoy some off-season discounts at teahouses which remain mostly empty during these times. But you should be ready to face some discomforts (rain, snow, and extreme cold) if you take to the trail at these times. The flights also get frequently canceled during these times due to bad weather and poor visibility.
The easiest way to reach Lukla (2840m), your Everest Base Camp Trek trailhead, is via a flight. One of the highest and most extreme airports in the world, flying to Tenzing-Hillary Airport in Lukla has its own challenges. The chief among them is the weather.
The airport is built on a narrow plateau, over a steep cliff. Navigating the plane along the short and narrow runway is difficult when strong winds whip across the mountains. Surrounded by some of the highest peaks in the world, the weather here is unpredictable and changes frequently. It would be clear and sunny one minute, and the next moment the clouds will appear, and everything will turn hazy. Flights operate only when the weather is stable and visibility clear.
The chances of your Lukla flight getting canceled cannot be ruled out. If this happens, your EBC Trek may get extended by a day or two. So come prepared and keep buffer days so that you may not miss your international flight.
If there is a long delay due to bad weather, we will secure a space for you on a helicopter flight. The cost for the heli flight is not included in the trip price and should be borne by you.
Due to congestion at the Kathmandu airport during the high season (Spring- March, April, Autumn - October, November), flights to and from Lukla now operate from Manthali Airport in Ramechhap. The airport lies 132km (4hrs 30mins drive) from Kathmandu.
However, airline companies operate their first and last flights directly from Kathmandu and Lukla (KTM-LUKLA-KTM). If you book your trip early, we can try to secure a place for you on the direct flight to or from Lukla. It will be easier and more comfortable to fly directly from Kathmandu to Lukla and vice versa, instead of making that additional journey to Ramechhap.
Helicopter Flights to Everest Region will operate from Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu.
Remember, you will be trekking to the world’s highest trekking destination, Everest Base Camp, which lies well above 5000 meters beyond sea level. Here there is less oxygen in the atmosphere, which will make breathing a bit difficult.
To let your body get used to the thin air, you need to walk slowly and steadily and keep your body hydrated. If you try to hasten and walk fast to reach your destination in less time, chances are you may suffer from AMS or Acute Mountain Sickness.
AMS symptoms like dizziness, headache, nausea, shortness of breath, fatigue, etc., are seen at elevations above 2000 meters. Usually, these symptoms occur once you reach Namche or beyond Namche.
Taking Diamox and a good night’s rest may work for mild cases. Drinking plenty of fluids (water, tea, soup, etc.) and keeping your body hydrated will also help keep the sickness at bay. One should take the necessary precautions to ensure that the condition does not worsen. But if the symptoms worsen, one may have to return to a lower elevation and get medical help.
There are clinics at Lukla, Namche, and Pheriche which offer basic care for minor ailments. In the worst-case scenario, an air evacuation will be arranged, where the patient will be flown to Kathmandu to receive medical aid. AMS, if untreated or ignored, can take your life.
On a high-altitude trek like the trek to EBC, acclimatization is very important. Your body needs time to get used to thin air which can be done by resting at a lower altitude before reaching a higher elevation level.
Our experts have included two days in the itinerary for acclimatization. During your trek, you will be spending extra days at Namche (3440m) and Dingboche (4410m) to acclimatize successfully before trekking further.
Here are the altitudes and oxygen levels at some of the major stops en route to Everest Base Camp:
| Places | Altitude | Oxygen Level |
| Lukla | 2,840m/9,318ft | 0.73% |
| Namche | 3,440m/11,286ft | 0.64% |
| Dingboche | 4,410m/14,469ft | 0.58% |
| Lobuche | 4,910m/16,109ft | 0.53% |
| Gorak Shep | 5,140m/16,864ft | 0.52% |
| Everest Base Camp | 5,364m/17,598ft | 0.5% |
| Kala Patthar | 5,500m/18,209ft | 0.5% |
It is important to keep your body hydrated on the trail as dehydration also causes AMS. One should drink at least 3-4 liters of fluids daily.
We dissuade you from buying bottled water as it adds up to the thrashing problem in the mountains. Moreover, like everything else, bottled water is also expensive in the mountains.
We highly recommend you to carry a reusable water bottle with you, one that can hold hot water. You can use one with a steri pen or an inbuilt filtration system like Life Straw. You can also use water purification tablets to treat the water. While the water in the mountains tends to be pure and without impurities, it’s better not to take chances and filter or treat the water before drinking.
Using chlorine or iodine tablets to treat the water may alter its taste. You can add flavored electrolyte powder (readily available at pharmacies in Kathmandu) to mask the bitter chemical taste. Adding electrolyte to your drinking water may also be beneficial as the minerals (sodium, potassium, magnesium, etc.) you lose while walking gets replenished.
Teahouses offer boiled drinking water at an additional cost. It can cost anywhere between 1 USD to 4 USD. Up to Namche, you may have to pay around 1 USD per liter or pot (every teahouse uses a different sized pot). The price increases gradually as you climb higher. You pay the highest for boiled water at Gorak Shep, i.e., 4 USD. While cold water is provided free of charge, it is not advisable to drink untreated tap water.
Despite being the world’s highest trekking trail, internet connection (though erratic and irregular at some places) is available in the Everest Region.
You can connect with your loved ones while trekking, post updates, and upload pictures on social media. Wi-fi is available at all teahouses up to Gorak Shep. While it is free at some cafes in Lukla and Namche, most teahouses will charge you extra for using their Wi-Fi hotspot.
It will be cheaper and easier to get a Ncell (a private telecom company) sim card in Kathmandu and purchase internet data that could last you for your entire trip. The company offers 3G connectivity up to Everest Base Camp (5364m).
Everest Link, another local internet provider, also offers paid internet access on the trail. You can purchase the username and password at any of the teahouses or shops along the trail.
As opposed to popular belief, you don’t need much-complicated gear and equipment for an Everest Base Camp adventure. Here’s a basic checklist of the essential items that you should not forget to bring with you during your EBC Trek:
These are only some of the essential items. Check a more detailed packing list for trekking. Most of the trekking equipment is available on hire in Kathmandu. You can keep your baggage light by only packing the essential items and renting or buying the rest in Kathmandu. Shops in Thamel offer branded as well locally made gear and equipment.
Everest Base Camp Trek takes you to the highest trekking trail in the world. Having an experienced local guide accompanying you will enrich your trip in so many ways. Trekking with a person who has in-depth knowledge of the mountain will also keep you safe and secure.
When you book an EBC Trek with us, we pair you up with one of our local guides. All our guides have experience of more than 10 years and have a vast knowledge of the area you are visiting. They have completed the trekking guide course and have the required government license to work as mountain guides. They can communicate in English and have received training on wilderness first aid and crisis management.
A chief guide or trek leader will lead the trek. For every 4 trekkers, there will be an assistant guide assisting them personally. One porter will carry the luggage of 2 clients. Ensure that your luggage does not exceed 15 kg, as the porter can only carry a weight of 30 kg.
We believe in the ethical treatment of our staff. All our Guides and Porters are provided with weather-appropriate gear and clothing to battle the harsh weather in the mountains. Before the start of a trek, we ensure that our mountain guides are fully insured. They are given fair wages and treated with respect.
We seriously follow the guidelines set by IPPG (International Porter Protection Group) and offer assistance to porters to develop other skills. A portion of the booking fee goes to fund the education of our field staffs’ kids.
We ensure the safety of our clients by following all safety protocols during the trip. The Everest Base Camp Trek itinerary has been designed by travel experts and veteran guides who have guided several groups to Everest Base Camp innumerable times.
To prevent AMS, the required number of rest days has been added to the itinerary. Our guides always carry a first-aid kit and pulse oximeter (to measure the oxygen level in your blood) with them. The guides assigned to you have more than 10 years of experience and know what steps to take during an emergency. They are well-trained in wilderness first aid and crisis management.
If a client shows symptoms of AMS and needs to descend to a lower elevation, an assistant guide will escort him/her and follow the safety protocol. He will closely monitor the client’s condition and take the required steps needed for the client's well-being.
If he/she feels alright after a night’s rest, the guide will escort the client back to join the group. But if the condition worsens, the client will be escorted down to Lukla or get airlifted to Kathmandu for expert medical aid.
A typical day on the trail begins with a wake-up call at around 6 AM by your guide. Freshen up and get ready. Pack your belongings and head to the dining area for breakfast by 7 AM. Check your luggage for the final time and fill your water bottle before you hit the trail by 8 AM, along with your guide.
To avoid walking in the heat and enjoy clear mountains' views, you make an early start. En route, there will be short breaks to enjoy the views and take photographs. You stop for lunch at a local teahouse around noon or mid-day. After a quick rest of about an hour or 40 minutes, you get back on the trail and continue till you reach your overnight stop.
Upon reaching the stop for the night, you head to your teahouse, check in, and have some rest. Tea with some light refreshments (cookies or biscuits) will be served at 5 PM. As the rooms are not insulated, you can warm yourself by the heater or stove in the communal area.
Exchange stories or play cards with other trekkers and sherpas till dinner is served (around 7 PM). After dinner, your guide will brief you about the next day’s trek – the route you will take, difficulty, where you will stop for lunch, etc. Afterward, retire for the night and have a well-deserved rest.
On average, you may have to walk 6 to 7 hours daily. The trek to Phakding is the shortest and the easiest, while the hike to Everest Base Camp from Lobuche on the 9th day could be your toughest. On Day 10, a hike to Kala Patthar for the sunrise view is scheduled. So you will have to wake up before 4 AM to reach Kala Patthar before sunrise. Your guide will share the details regarding the hike during the after-dinner briefing on Day 9.
The permits you need for the Everest Base Camp trek are – 1) Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, and 2) Khumbu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit. Unlike other treks in the Nepal Himalaya, you won’t be needing a TIMS (Tourist Information Management System) card.
Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board’s Office in Kathmandu or at the park’s entrance gate in Monjo by paying NRS 3000. For citizens of SAARC countries, the fee is NRS 1500. You need to fill out the permit form and show your passport or a copy of your passport.
To get the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit, you need to be in Lukla. You have to pay NRS 2000 for the permit at the rural municipality counter, which lies at the edge of the village.
If you plan to trek to Everest Base Camp from Jiri, you will be required to pay the Gaurishanker Conservation Area Project Entry Permit fee of NRS 2000. The permit can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board’s office in Kathmandu before the start of your trek.
You won’t have to worry about queuing up to get the permits as the company, or our guides will arrange all the permits for you.
For Everest Base Camp Trek, you need a good travel insurance policy that offers you coverage for all activities and altitudes included in your itinerary. The highest altitude you reach is 5,550 meters, and your travel insurance should offer you suitable coverage up to this elevation.
Though we take your safety as our number one priority, we cannot rule out mishaps and emergencies that may occur at this altitude. There is less oxygen in the environment, and trekkers usually suffer from Acute Mountain Sickness, proving fatal if not treated on time. Walking in a treacherous mountain environment also exposes you to physical injuries. Therefore make sure that your insurance covers the cost of all injuries and emergencies that you can face during this trekking adventure. Your insurance policy should especially cover the cost of helicopter evacuation and hospitalization in case of an accident or medical emergency, as these happen to be quite expensive. Check for vaccination requirements as some travel insurance policies makes it mandatory to immunize yourself before you leave your country.
Before you decide on a policy, be mindful and don’t forget to read the fine print. It would be advantageous for you also to choose a company that offers insurance cover on domestic and international flight cancellations and lost or stolen baggage.
Travel responsibly and try to limit any negative impact on the environment. Limit the use of plastic and be mindful of throwing waste in the mountains. When you trek with us, you will be supporting local communities (from the guides and porters to teahouse owners). We, as a company, support sustainable tourism and patronize local businesses. We partner with service providers who work towards saving the environment. As an active member of KEEP (Kathmandu Environmental Education Project), we make sure that our trips are environmentally friendly.
Useful Links for Everest Base Camp Trek
How much does it cost to trek to Everest Base Camp?
When is the best time to visit Everest Base Camp?
How difficult is Everest Base camp Trek?
60 Tips for Trekking to Everest Base Camp - Must read before EBC Trek
Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions About Everest Base Camp Trek
Everest Base Camp Trek Altitude Map
When you are up in the mountains in Nepal, we would suggest you to be ready for anything. Weather forecasts for Lukla are never correct and different sources will give you different information. If it is a really bad day in terms of weather, the airlines will themselves cancel the flight and you might have to wait till the weather clears. Yes, flying in high altitude is never easy, even on a clear sunny day, the plane might face turbulence because of the wind blowing from the mountains. But overall the flight to Lukla is very exciting and it’s an experience that you will never forget
These are the best months to do this trek, as the weather is mild and the temperatures range from 12 to 15 degrees. The skies generally remain clear and the days are pleasant and warm. You can expect an occasional spring shower and hazy weather during spring. The mountain views are stunning in September, as there is more snow on the mountains. Nights can be freezing as the temperature dips after sun down.
If you have booked a package with us you won’t be spending much as accommodation and 3 meals are already included in your trip price. You may have to personally pay for items like beverages and drinks, extra snacks, hot showers, electronic device charging, wifi etc. USD 20 to 30 (NRS 2000-3000) per day will suffice.
You can either buy bottled mineral water or fill up a reusable water bottle with boiled or sterilized water. During the trek, the teahouses or lodges serve you bottled and filtered water which is generally safe and have to be paid for. A liter of water would cost anything between 1 to 4 USD. As you go higher the cost of all commodities, including water, increases. But do note there is no dearth or scarcity of drinking water at teahouses. We encourage our guest to use iodine and other purifying agents to treat the water before drinking. You need to drink at least 3-4 litres of water each day to stay hydrated at higher altitudes. Keeping your body hydrated helps you to keep away the symptoms altitude sickness.
No, the company won’t provide drinking water or any extra drinks or beverages other than the ones that are specified in the trip cost.
While tipping is not mandatory it is a nice way of showing your appreciation to the people who have helped you enrich your holiday experience. It all depends on how far you are pleased and satisfied with their services. There is no fixed amount, but many of our clients offer 8-10 percent of the total tour price as tips.
You need to be in good shape and have an ability to walk 6 – 7 hours uphill and downhill per day. This trek is suitable for passionate trekkers. Positive attitude, excellent health, and strong determination are required for successful finish. Past hiking experience would be an asset but no technical skill is required for this trip. Besides, it is advisable to trek with a highly reputed trek operator like us, with experienced guides who can help you with significant mental preparation with a personal touch.
Regarding the difficulty, the only challenging factor is the altitude. Our Everest Base Camp trek itinerary provides ample time for acclimatization. Neither ropes nor ice picks are needed for this trip and no vertical climbs are involved. Novice travelers in a good physical shape, who exercise regularly, has positive attitude and has healthy heart and lungs can easily complete this adventurous trip.
As Everest Base Camp is situated at a high altitude of 5,364 metres, you spend only 1 to 2 hours at the base camp. Since the base camp lies at the foot of the world’s tallest mountain Mount Everest, the hike to EBC is probably the highlight of your trek. Though one cannot view the summit of Mount Everest from the base camp (as the mountain is too huge) you can get close up views of the massive walls of Everest, Khumbutse, Lingtren and Nuptse. The Khumbu Icefall appears spectacular. Though the icefall lies close to the Base Camp, it is not possible explore it as you need proper climbing gear to walk on it. But you get to explore the actual base camp of the Everest expedition groups. During climbing season, it is like a mini city of tents and you get to meet mountaineers (sometimes celebrities too!) from different countries attempting to summit Mount Everest. After taking pictures and soaking in the magnificent views you descend down to Gorak Shep again. Please do note the visibility of mountains depends on the weather. If it’s foggy you may not get good views of the mountains.
No, we do not spend the night at Everest Base Camp as there are no teahouses or lodges there. Moreover it is advisable and more comfortable to spend the night at a lower elevation. After enjoying the views we trek down to Gorak Shep and stay overnight at a local teahouse.
No, the summit of Mount Everest is not visible from Everest Base Camp. Rising above 8000 metres, the mountain is just too gigantic to be viewed in its entirety from its base. The summit of Everest can be viewed from Kala Patthar and from places en route to EBC. If you want to view Mount Everest without having to trek to Everest region, you can do it by driving to Nagarkot, taking an Everest Mountain Flight and an Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour. The best view you get of Mount Everest is from Kala Patthar.
In all our Everest Treks the teahouses that we use have western toilets. In luxury lodges and teahouses in the lower elevations the rooms come with attached bathrooms and hot showers. At higher elevations the facilities may be a bit basic and you may have to share the bathroom with other travellers. Please do note that in case of extreme cold, the water in the toilet basin may freeze and you may have to use an Asian (also known as ‘squat’) style of toilet that is located outside. Please do carry toilet paper rolls with you at all times. It is important that you carry enough rolls of toilet paper and hand sanitizer while trekking.
You need to have local currency to purchase items on the trail. While Lukla and Namche in the Everest Region may have lodges that would accept payment with cards, we strongly advise to carry enough local cash with you to buy essential items en route. You can exchange your currency at any of the money exchange centres in Kathmandu or use your credit or debit card at the local ATMs to get local currency.
You can store it at your hotel (most hotels in Kathmandu have storage facilities) or you can leave it at our office.
Yes, wifi hotspots are available on the Everest Base Camp trail. But please do keep in mind, due to the mountainous terrain the network maybe erratic. Often times the signal gets lost or the strength is poor.
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Dear Josh, we are also happy to have your dream completed together with our team. Our services for you will always be more than you expected. Our team looks forward to getting another opportunity to serve you. Thank you so much.
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Thank you Mrs. Galina for sharing your travel experience with us. Our entire team is dedicated to serve you with much better services in future trips too. We wish you a wonderful days ahead and look forward to seeing you again in the next trip.
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Travel Expert , responded to
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Mr. Román, your valuable remarks on the trip to Everest Base Camp you did with us is highly appreciated. We will continue to serve with even better facilities in the days to come. We would be very happy to serve you again in future with any trips in Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan.
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Travel Expert , responded to
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Thank you Romano, for sharing your travel experience with us. This will help future travelers make correct decision and select the best service provider for them. We look forward to serving you again in near future. Namaste.
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Travel Expert , responded to
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Hello Ferdinand, we are pleased to hear such nice words for our company and our team who served you during your trek. You and your sister are always remembered by our team here in Nepal. We hope to serve you again very soon.
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