Different Trekking Routes to Everest Base Camp

Imagine standing among towering peaks, the thrill of high-altitude air filling your lungs. Gazing at the majestic Mount Everest, you realize the trek to Everest Base Camp (EBC) is more than reaching a destination. It’s a dream for many, filled with breathtaking landscapes and moments that test your spirit. Each step connects you with the heart of the Himalayas and the warmth of local Sherpa culture.

While the classic EBC route remains popular, exploring other Everest trekking routes reveals new perspectives. Each route, from the serene Gokyo Lakes to the challenging Three High Passes, offers unique sights and experiences. Choosing the right route to Everest Base Camp lets you tailor your adventure to your goals and sense of exploration. So, why limit yourself? Discovering the varied EBC trek routes makes your journey to Everest even more unforgettable.

Different Routes to Everest Base Camp Trek

1. Classic EBC trek

The Classic EBC Trek is the most popular route to Everest Base Camp. It offers a direct path from Lukla to the base camp, passing through Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Dingboche. This route allows trekkers to experience the vibrant Sherpa culture and offers beautiful views of the Himalayas. The journey is filled with well-established tea houses and support facilities, making it accessible for many adventurers.

The classic EBC route provides a mix of natural beauty and cultural richness. Trekkers witness breathtaking landscapes and enjoy time for acclimatization. This path follows a steady ascent, ensuring safety and comfort. The classic route attracts a wide range of trekkers due to its moderate difficulty and reliable infrastructure.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival at Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,600 ft)

Day 2: Kathmandu to Salleri (2,300m / 7,546ft)

Day 3: Salleri to Nunthala and to Paiyun (2760m / 9,055ft)

Day 4: Paiyun to Phakding (2,610 m / 8,563 feet)

Day 5: Phakding to Namche Bazaar ( 3,440 m / 11,286 ft)

Day 6: Namche Bazaar Acclimatization walk to Everest view hotel ( 3,880 m / 12,730 ft)

Day 7: Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,860m / 12,664ft)

Day 8: Tengboche to Dingboche (4,410 m / 14, 469 ft)

Day 9: Dingboche Acclimatization walk to Nangkartshang Peak (5,083m / 16,667 ft)

Day 10: Dingboche to Lobuche (4,910m 16,109 ft)

Day 11: Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5,125 m / 16,814 ft) and EBC 5,364 m/ 17,598 ft)

Day 12: Gorakh Shep to Kalapathar ( 5,540m / 18,176 ft) and Gorakh Shep to Pheriche ( 4,240 m / 13,911 ft)

Day 13: Pheriche to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m / 11,286 ft)

Day 14: Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,840 m / 9,318 ft)

Day 15: Lukla to Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,600 ft)

Day 16: Depart Kathmandu

Difficulty Level of EBC Classic Trek

Classic EBC trek is moderate to challenging. It requires good physical fitness but allows ample acclimatization time. The steady ascent helps trekkers manage altitude better.

Why Classic EBC Route is Better?

The classic route offers a direct and balanced experience, blending cultural encounters with stunning views. It provides reliable support facilities, making it ideal for both seasoned and first-time trekkers. With a well-paced itinerary of classic EBC trek, it allows for safe acclimatization, maximizing enjoyment, and minimizing risk.

2. EBC trek with a helicopter return

The EBC trek with a helicopter return is the shortest route to Everest Base Camp. Trekkers follow the classic path to EBC on foot, then take a helicopter back to Lukla or Kathmandu. This route combines the adventure of trekking with the thrill of an aerial view, reducing the overall trip duration.

Selecting the everest base camp trek with helicopter return is ideal for trekkers with limited time. The helicopter return offers a quick descent, avoiding the long return trek and minimizing physical strain. Additionally, it provides a unique perspective of the Himalayas from the air, offering stunning aerial views of Everest and nearby peaks.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

Day 2: Flight to Lukla, trek to Phakding

Day 3: Trek to Namche Bazaar

Day 4: Acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar

Day 5: Trek to Tengboche

Day 6: Trek to Dingboche

Day 7: Acclimatization day in Dingboche

Day 8: Trek to Lobuche

Day 9: Trek to Everest Base Camp, overnight in Gorak Shep 

Difficulty Level

This trek is moderate with fewer days required for acclimatization. The helicopter return reduces physical exertion, making it manageable for many.

Why this Route is Better?

This route is the best choice for those with tight schedules. The helicopter return saves time, allowing a faster completion of the EBC trek. It combines the trekking experience with a spectacular aerial journey, adding a memorable highlight for adventurers.

3. Everest Cho La Pass Trek

The Everest Cho La Pass Trek offers a thrilling adventure by combining the classic EBC route with a crossing over Cho La Pass. This route takes trekkers through both Everest Base Camp and the stunning Gokyo Lakes, making it a scenic and varied journey. It’s designed for experienced trekkers looking for a challenging route with rewarding views.

This trek provides diverse landscapes, including glacial valleys, alpine lakes, and rugged mountain paths. The Cho La Pass adds an exhilarating high-altitude challenge, rewarding trekkers with panoramic views of Everest and nearby peaks. The route is remote and less crowded, providing a peaceful trek through some of the Himalayas’ most beautiful terrains.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival at Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,600 ft)

Day 2: Lukla ( 2,840 m 9,318 feet) to Phakding (2,610 m / 8,563 feet)

Day 3: Phakding to Namche Bazaar ( 3,440 m / 11,286 ft)

Day 4: Namche Bazaar Acclimatization walk to Everest View Hotel ( 3,880 m / 12,730 ft)

Day 5: Namche Bazaar to Dole (4040 m / 13,255 ft)

Day 6: Dole to Machhermo Village (4150 m / 13616 ft)

Day 7: Machhermo to Gokyo (4750 m / 15,584 ft)

Day 8: Gokyo Valley Side Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357m / 17,575ft)

Day 9: Gokyo to Thanknak (4700m / 15,420ft)

Day 10: Thaknak to Dzongla (4830m / 15,846 ft) via Cho La Pass (5,420m / 17,782 ft)

Day 11: Dzongla to Lobuche (4,910m 16,109 ft)

Day 12: Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5,125 m / 16,814 ft) and EBC 5,364 m/ 17,598 ft)

Day 13: Gorakh Shep to Kalapathar ( 5,540m / 18,176 ft) and Gorakh Shep to Pheriche ( 4,240 m / 13,911 ft)

Day 14: Pheriche to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m / 11,286 ft)

Day 15: Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,840 m / 9,318 ft)

Day 16: Lukla to Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,600 ft)

Day 17: Depart Kathmandu

Difficulty Level

The trek to Everest Cho La Pass is challenging. It requires good fitness and high-altitude trekking experience, especially for the Cho La Pass crossing.

Why this Route is Better?

This route is ideal for experienced trekkers seeking a scenic and challenging journey. It combines Everest Base Camp with crossing over Cho La region, offering a blend of iconic and off-the-beaten-path experiences. The Cho La Pass trek detailed itinerary  rewards adventurers with diverse landscapes and fewer crowds, providing a memorable and less-traveled path to Everest.

4. Everest Gokyo Lakes trek

The Everest Gokyo Lakes Trek is a unique route that combines the EBC trek with a visit to the beautiful Gokyo Lakes. This trek diverges from the classic EBC path after Namche Bazaar, leading trekkers to serene turquoise lakes and the stunning viewpoint at Gokyo Ri. It offers a peaceful journey with fewer crowds and some breathtaking views of Everest and surrounding peaks.

One can choose the EBC Gokyo Lakes trek if you are seeking a quieter, scenic alternative to the traditional EBC route. The trail passes through remote villages and offers panoramic views, including Everest, Cho Oyu, and Makalu vistas from the summit of Gokyo Ri. This trek combines natural beauty with a serene trekking experience away from the busier EBC trails.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival at Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,600 ft)

Day 2: Lukla ( 2,840 m 9,318 feet) to Phakding (2,610 m / 8,563 feet)

Day 3: Phakding to Namche Bazaar ( 3,440 m / 11,286 ft)

Day 4: Namche Bazaar Acclimatization walk to Everest View Hotel ( 3,880 m / 12,730 ft)

Day 5: Namche Bazaar to Phortse 3680 m / 12,074 ft

Day 6: Phortse to Dingboche (4,410 m / 14, 469 ft)

Day 7: Dingboche Acclimatization walk to Nangkartshang Peak (5,083m / 16,667 ft)

Day 8: Dingboche to Lobuche (4,910m 16,109 ft)

Day 9: Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5,125 m / 16,814 ft) and EBC 5,364 m/ 17,598 ft)

Day 10: Gorakh Shep to Kalapathar ( 5,540m / 18,176 ft) and Gorakh Shep to Dzongla (4830m / 15,846 ft)

Day 11: Dzongla to Thaknak (4700m / 15,420ft) via Cho La Pass (5,420m / 17,782 ft)

Day 12: Thanknak to Gokyo (4750 m / 15,584 ft)

Day 13: Gokyo Valley Side Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357m / 17,575ft) and to Macchermo (4,470 m /14665 ft)

Day 14: Macchermo to Namche Bazaar ( 3,440 m / 11,286 ft)

Day 15: Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,840 m 9,318 ft)

Day 16: Lukla to Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,600 ft)

Day 17: Depart Kathmandu

Difficulty Level

Route to Everest Gokyo Lakes Trek is moderate to challenging due to the high altitude, though it offers steady acclimatization. It’s suitable for trekkers with basic experience.

Why this Route is Better?

The Gokyo Lakes trek provides a quieter, more scenic alternative to the classic EBC route. It offers incredible views, a peaceful atmosphere, and the added beauty of Gokyo Lakes. Ideal for those who prefer solitude and scenery, this trek combines natural wonders with a unique perspective of the Everest region.

5. EBC Three High Pass trek

The EBC Three High Pass Trek is one of the most challenging routes to Everest Base Camp. It includes crossings over Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La passes, providing a comprehensive and adventurous journey through the Everest region. This trek combines the best of the EBC route with high-altitude challenges, making it ideal for experienced trekkers seeking a rigorous adventure.

The Three High Pass trek offers stunning panoramic views from high passes, covering both Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes. This route passes through remote villages, diverse landscapes, and breathtaking viewpoints. Trekkers encounter fewer crowds, unique perspectives of Everest, and a deep sense of accomplishment upon completing all three passes.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival at Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,600 ft)

Day 2: Lukla ( 2,840 m 9,318 feet) to Phakding (2,610 m / 8,563 feet)

Day 3: Phakding to Namche Bazaar ( 3,440 m / 11,286 ft)

Day 4: Namche Bazaar Acclimatization walk to Everest View Hotel ( 3,880 m / 12,730 ft)

Day 5: Namche Bazaar to Phortse (3680 m / 12,074 ft)

Day 6: Phortse to Dingboche (4,410 m / 14, 469 ft)

Day 7: Dingboche Acclimatization walk to Nangkartshang Peak (5,083m / 16,667 ft)

Day 8: Dingboche to Chukkung (4730m / 15,518ft)

Day 9: Chukkung to Lobuche (4,910m 16,109 ft) via Kongma La Pass (5,535m / 18,159ft)

Day 10: Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5,125 m / 16,814 ft) and EBC 5,364 m/ 17,598 ft)

Day 11: Gorakh Shep to Kalapathar ( 5,540m / 18,176 ft) and Gorakh Shep to Dzongla (4830m / 15,846 ft)

Day 12: Dzongla to Thaknak (4700m / 15,420ft) via Cho La pass (5,420m / 17,782 ft)

Day 13: Thanknak to Gokyo (4750 m / 15,584 ft)

Day 14: Gokyo Valley Side Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357m / 17,575ft)

Day 15: Gokyo to Marlung 4210m / Via Renjo La pass ( 5,360m / 17,586ft)

Day 16: Marlung to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m / 11,286 ft)

Day 17: Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,840 m / 9,318 ft)

Day 18: Lukla to Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,600 ft)

Day 19: Depart Kathmandu

Difficulty Level

The trek to EBC Three High Pass is highly challenging, requiring excellent physical fitness and high-altitude experience. Each pass presents steep ascents and rugged terrain.

Why this Route is Better?

The Three High Pass trek offers the most complete Everest experience, covering both EBC and Gokyo Lakes with spectacular high-altitude views. This route is perfect for experienced trekkers seeking variety, fewer crowds, and a deep, immersive adventure in the Himalayas.

Which Trekking Route to EBC is Better: Our Recommendation

The best trekking route to Everest Base Camp depends on individual preferences, available time, and personal fitness level. Each route offers a distinct experience, from the well-trodden paths of the Classic EBC Trek to the adventurous Three High Pass Trek. For trekkers looking for a balanced journey with scenic views and cultural immersion, the Classic EBC route provides an ideal combination. This route is well-supported with facilities and allows ample acclimatization time, making it suitable for a broad range of trekkers.

If you’re short on time but still want the EBC experience, consider the EBC trek with a helicopter return. This route lets you enjoy the core trekking experience and scenic views, with a thrilling helicopter flight back. For trekkers who want more solitude and diverse landscapes, the Gokyo Lakes Trek offers a peaceful alternative with beautiful lake views and fewer crowds. For seasoned adventurers, the Cho La Pass Trek or Three High Pass Trek brings an added challenge, featuring remote paths, stunning high-altitude vistas, and a deeper immersion into Everest’s raw beauty.

Ultimately, each route to Everest Base Camp holds its own significance. Think about your goals, endurance level, and what you wish to experience. Whichever route you choose, the trek to EBC promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Himalayas. Ready to plan your adventure? Reach out to our team at Mountain Routes to start preparing for the trek of a lifetime!

FAQ

Which route to Everest base camp is closest?

The EBC Trek with Helicopter Return is the shortest route in terms of duration. Trekkers reach Everest Base Camp on foot, then return by helicopter, saving time on the descent. This route typically takes around 7-8 days, making it ideal for those with limited time.

Which EBC routes are easy to travel?

The Classic EBC Trek is considered the easiest, as it follows a well-established trail with ample support facilities along the way. This route allows for gradual acclimatization, making it manageable for most trekkers with moderate fitness. Additionally, it offers numerous tea houses and well-marked paths, ensuring a comfortable experience.

How much is the cost of heli tour to EBC?

The cost of a helicopter tour to Everest Base Camp generally ranges between $1,000 and $1,500 per person. Prices vary based on group size, season, and specific flight arrangements. Booking in advance for EBC heli tour sometimes offer discounted rates.