Overview
- Duration 14 days
- Max Altitude 5,540 m/ 18,176 ft
- Group Size 02-10
- Best Season Mar-May, Sep-Nov
- Per Day Walk 06-07 hrs
- Accomodation Hotel / Teahouse
- Start/End KTM / KTM
- Difficulty Challenging
- Trip Type Solo / Group /
Everest Base Camp trek, popularly known as the EBC trek, definitely makes it to the bucket list of anyone who loves nature, adventure, and travel. The beauty of this trek lies in its unspoiled natural environment and the excitement that comes with reaching the highest point on earth. This trekking trail will get you as top as 5364 meters at Everest Base Camp.
Mt. Everest Base Camp trek is also one of the most popular treks in Nepal. Suppose you are looking for a place to enjoy the thrill of walking up the world’s tallest mountain along with the stunning views of Mt Ama Dablam. In that case, Everest Base Camp Trek is just what you need.
Everest Base Camp Trek takes you through some of the most beautiful villages of the Khumbu region like Lukla, Namche Bazaar, Thame, Phakding, etc. You land an opportunity to witness Sherpa culture and their way of life. Besides all these, many other things make the Everest Base Camp trek special.
Start and End of Mount Everest Base Camp Trek
The trekking route to Everest Base camp starts from Lukla, the gateway to the Khumbu region. This region is one of the most isolated parts of Nepal, surrounded by high mountains and magnificent views.
The trekking trail leads you through the remote villages of the Khumbu Region, which is the home of the Sherpas. You pass through the lush green valleys, hilly terrain, villages, and monasteries still inhabited by the Sherpas.
You walk through all the tricky terrain of the Khumbu region. The stopovers during the EBC trek include popular destinations like Gorak Shep, Namche Bazaar, Thame, Tengboche, and Pangboche. The trekking route is perfect for all those who wish to see the natural beauty of the Himalayas.
From Tengboche to Labuche, you either trek through Pheriche or Dingboche. On returning to Tengboche from the Base Camp, you can choose an alternate route to witness the majestic Himalayan beauty.
Nevertheless, the most popular path to Mount Everest Base Camp is from Tengboche to Dingboche. The return path is a trek through Pheriche, starting from Lobuche until you reach Tengboche.
What can I expect during the Mount Everest Base Camp Trek?
There are so many reasons why you should choose Everest Base Camp Trek.
The view of Mount Everest from the base camp is breathtaking; it is hard to believe it is a part of the same planet. The impressive view of the snow-capped mountains and the clear blue sky is so incredible that it takes a lifetime to see all the amazing sights in one place. So, it is elementary to understand why many people come here to see the view.
Likewise, The Sherpas of the Khumbu region is also a significant attraction and are known for their hospitality and generosity. The Sherpas are also famous for their traditional dances and costumes. These dances are performed during festivals and special occasions.
Teahouse accommodations are available during the base camp trek after you leave Namche Bazar. New teahouses offer western-style toilets; however, you might have to accommodate squat toilets too.
Trekkers can pick foods of their interest in teahouses. Most of the teahouses offer western cuisine as well. However, sticking to typical Nepali staples, i.e., Dal bhat and curry, is preferable. Due to lack of refrigeration, consumption of meat items are best to avoid.
The most favorable time to trek the Everest base camp is between March and May or September through November. Though it is possible to trek in the region during the monsoon or winter, the possibility of not getting locked inside teahouses is high because of rain and snow.
Preparing for the Mount Everest Base Camp Trek
The Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the most challenging treks in the world. It is not only physically demanding but also requires a high fitness level. Therefore, you should prepare yourself physically and mentally for this high-altitude trek.
When trekking to the base camp, no special trekking equipment is needed. Still, you may also want to carry protection for your safety. To walk on the uneven terrain of the Khumbu region, you need to wear sturdy shoes. For these tricky terrains, choose the correct pair of shoes. Along with a pair of shoes, carry trekking poles as it helps to minimize the pressure on the legs and joints during the walk.
It is also essential to plan ahead, so you do not miss any important dates. You must ensure that you have all the documents you need to make the trek. The documents include the passport, visa, and trekking permits required by Nepalese authorities.
The next step is to make sure that you have the right equipment. The equipment should be in good condition and should fit you well. You should also ensure that you have enough money to cover the expenses required during the trek. You should also take extra cash because you will need it for different purposes during the trek.
A common question is how much cash to carry. We recommend bringing $250-300 for personal expenses such as tea, coffee, bottled water, beverages, and tips for the guide, as well as for emergencies. While you might not spend all of it, it’s wise to have cash on hand. You can exchange money in Kathmandu, or if necessary, in Lukla and Namche.
When hiking in the mountains, you must ensure that you are prepared for the weather conditions. Therefore, you should carry a windbreaker, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and gloves. You should also carry a flashlight and extra batteries. And don’t forget medicines if you take any. It is wise to carry extra medicine for unfavorable weather, should you get stuck in the region.
Includes
- All transportations during the trip
- Round airfare (Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu)
- Sagarmatha National Park Entry Fee
- Highly experienced English speaking trekking guide
- Porter (1 porter for 2 trekkers)
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
- Accommodation (Three star in Kathmandu and Teahouses in Trekking)
- First aid box
- All government taxes
- Farewell dinner
- Mountain Routes T-Shirt
Excludes
- International airfare
- Travel insurance
- Nepal visa fee
- Personal expenses (Phone calls, WiFi, bar bills, laundry, boiled water and hot shower)
- Tipping to porter and guide.
Everest Base Camp Trek Map
- 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)
Distance: 8.2 km / 5.1 miles
Duration: 30 min flight / 03-04 hrs walk - Day 3 :
Phakding to Namche Bazaar ( 3,440 m / 11,286 ft)
Distance: 10.9 km / 6.8 miles
Duration: 06-07 hrs walk - Day 4 :
Namche Bazaar Acclimatization walk to Everest view hotel ( 3,880 m / 12,730 ft)
Distance: 5.4 km / 3.4 miles
Duration: 03 hrs walk round trip - Day 5 :
Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,860m / 12,664ft)
Distance: 9.6 km / 6 miles
Duration: 05-06 hrs walk - Day 6 :
Tengboche to Dingboche (4,410 m / 14, 469 ft)
Distance: 10.5 km / 6.5 miles
Duration: 05-06 hrs walk - Day 7 :
Dingboche Acclimatization walk to Nangkartshang Peak (5,083m / 16,667 ft)
Distance: 5.1 km / 3.2 miles ( round trip)
Duration: 04-05 hrs walk - Day 8 :
Dingboche to Lobuche (4,910m 16,109 ft)
Distance: 7.9 km / 4.9 miles
Duration: 04-05 hrs walk - Day 9 :
Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5,125 m / 16,814 ft) and EBC 5,364 m/ 17,598 ft)
Distance: 4.5 km / 2.8 miles and 7.2 km / 4.5 miles
Duration: 03 hrs walk and 04 hrs walk round trip - Day 10 :
Gorakh Shep to Kalapathar ( 5,540m / 18,176 ft) and Gorakh Shep to Pheriche ( 4,240 m / 13,911 ft)
Distance: 3.7 km / 2.3 miles ( round trip) and 11.5 km / 7.1 miles)
Duration: 03 hrs walk ( round trip) and 05 hrs - Day 11 :
Pheriche to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m / 11,286 ft)
Distance: 19.5 km / 12.1 miles
Duration: 06-07 hrs walk - Day 12 :
Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,840 m / 9,318 ft)
Distance: 19.1 km / 11.9 miles
Duration: 06-07 hrs walk - Day 13 :
Lukla to Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,600 ft)
Duration: 30 min flight - Day 14 :
Depart Kathmandu
Itineraries
Day 1 : Arriving at Kathmandu
After you land in Kathmandu, one of our representatives will pick you up from the Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA). They help you get to your hotel and also give you the details about the trekking and schedules. You can rest or explore the beautiful city of temples – Kathmandu, during your first day.
Day 2 : Fly to Lukla and Trek to phakding (2610) Trip Duration: 03-04 hrs
On the second day of our Everest trekking, we take an early morning flight to Tenzing Hillary Airport at Lukla. This is a short-haul flight of 35 minutes. On reaching Lukla, you meet your team, guide, and porters. They will help you through the trek.
We start from Lukla to Phakding with a gradual descent till Phakding via Chheplung and Ghat village. We then follow a gentle climb up the mountainside of the Dudh Koshi river. The trekking distance is 6.2 kilometers. Generally, it takes about 3 hours for most travelers, but some might take a bit more than usual. After this short trek, we reach Phakding in the late afternoon, where we rest for the day.
Day 3 : Phakding to Namche Bazar
The third day of trekking starts after breakfast at Phakding.
This exciting part of the Everest Base Camp trek takes you through two famous glacial rivers -Dudh Koshi and Bhote Koshi.
You can see the incredible snow-capped mountains Kusum Kanguru (6369 m) and Thamserku (6623 m).
Walking through pine forests, crossing suspension bridges, and several Sherpa villages, you can enjoy the scenic and cultural beauty of this region.
During the trek, we reach the junction of the Dudh Koshi River and Bhote Koshi river witnessing excellent views of Mt. Everest (8848 m) and Mt. Lhotse (8516 m), finally reaching Namche Bazar.
Namche Bazar is surrounded from 3 sides by mountain ranges and is a central hub for food, trekking gear, and other essential items to those traveling in the region.
Day 4 : Acclimatization at Namche Bazaar
We stay at Namche Bazar on our fourth day to acclimatize. The stay at Namche helps the body with high altitude acclimatization process. During the process, our body adjusts to the Khumbu region’s altitude and thin air. To utilize acclimatization day, we explored Namche Bazar and visited nearby places.
Visit Sherpa culture museum lets us understand the culture and traditions of the Sherpas extensively. Other places to visit are the Sagarmatha National Park museum, Namche monastery, and Tenzing Norgay Memorial museum.
During your one-day stay at Namche Bazar, the sunrise view over the Himalayas is a significant point of attraction. It can be done with a short hike to Sagarmatha National Park and the sunrise over the Himalayas, including Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Thamserku, Mt. Kongde, and so on, can be admired with great awe.
We can enjoy the traditional Sherpa meal on this day.
Day 5 : Trek to Tengboche
Starting our day with an early breakfast, we head towards Tengboche. Tengboche is the largest monastery in the region which was built in 1916. The trekking route to Tengboche consists of prayer flags, mani walls (walls with Buddhist prayers carved into them), and mountains such as Ama Dablam, Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse (7855m), and Tawoche (6501 m). The trek also consists of Himalayan Thar and birds, including colorful males and Daphne pheasant.
Upon reaching Tengboche, you can visit the Tengboche monastery full of murals, thankas, a 20-foot Buddha sculpture, musical instruments, and lamas’ robes. You can also witness the prayer ceremony in the morning or evening.
Day 6 : Trek to Dingboche
The trek from Tengboche to Dingboche, of Everest trekking, consists of the alpine forest and a walk alongside the Imja river. During the trek, you witness the change in vegetation along the way. Dingboche is a small, scattered village with stoned mani walls and the highest Sherpa settlement village in the Khumbu region.
We continue the trek by following the Imja River before climbing up to the fields of Dingboche. The gradual hike offers an excellent opportunity to see the wildlife and a closer view of the Himalayan ranges. Before reaching Dingboche, we pass through Pangboche – usually where travelers take their lunch.
The trek is continuously up and down, so it is better to wear multiple layers of clothes. The accommodation at Dingboche is better compared to Tengboche. We stayed the night at Dingboche.
Day 7 : Acclimatization at Dingboche
We acclimatize on day 7 of our Everest Base Camp Trek at Dingboche. The best way to do that is to hike higher and sleep lower. We utilize this day by conducting an acclimatization hike to the Nangartshang hill. Due to its altitude, it is recommended that not less than 6 days be spent acclimatizing before climbing Nangkartshang Peak on the 7th day.
This hike rewards us with an excellent view of Mt. Makalu (8,463m) and a fantastic viewpoint of Mt. Ama Dablam. After the acclimatization hike, we can enjoy strolling around the village, enjoying the view, and capturing memories to share.
Day 8 : Trek to Lobuche
After staying 2 nights at Dingboche, we now trek further into our journey to Lobuche. Our trek begins with a gentle climb towards the Pheriche Valley. On our way, we can see the fantastic view of the Tawoch and Cholotse mountains.
Further along the trek, we pass through Thokla Pass, where we can see an extensive collection of tombstones and memorials to lost climbers and Sherpas. We then pass the glacial moraine of the Khumbu glacier. The beautiful view will keep us motivated. Finally, we reach Lobuche.
Day 9 : Lobuche to Gorak Shep – Everest Base Camp
On day 9 of our Everest Base Camp trekking, we finally reached our destination – Everest Base Camp. After breakfast at Lobuche, we embark on our journey to EBC via Gorak shep. This trek is the most rewarding part of our EBC trek.
At first, the trail takes us to the small settlement of Gorakshep over boulders and rough terrain. Gorak shep is the last tea-house settlement on this trekking trail. After lunch at Gorakshep, we head out to the highest base camp in the world – Everest Base Camp.
The hike to Everest Base is an exhausting climb that passes through the moraine of the Khumbu glacier. This trek provides the traveler with an astounding view of Mt. Everest, Mt. Mahalangur, Mt. Lingtern, Mt. Khumbutse, Mt. Nuptse, and others.
After the amazing trek to the Everest Base Camp, we trace our steps back to the teahouse settlement of Gorakshep and rest for a night there.
Day 10 : Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar and to Pheriche
On the 10th day of our EBC trekking, we hike to the best vantage point to view the sunrise. We can see the best view of Mt. Everest, Mt. Pumori, Mt. Lingtren, Mt. Khumbetse, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Thamserku, and many more.
In addition, we can enjoy the epic view of sun rays kissing the mountain tops. A challenging hike to Kala Patthar takes about 3 hours, and the hike is totally worth the effort.
After the climb to Kala Patthar, we will embark on an easy ascend to Pheriche.
Day 11 : Pheriche to Namche Bazaar
On day 11 of our Everest region trek, we return to Namche Bazar. Today will be a little hard and tiring because of the long walk and the hiking the day before. But it is not something un-doable. So keep going because a good dinner and a decent hot shower await you at Namche Bazar.
Day 12 : Namche Bazaar to Lukla
Today, on 12th day of our Everest trekking, we trace our steps from Namche Bazar to Lukla. We begin our trek with breakfast. Lunch is available on the way. Upon reaching Lukla, we rest and enjoy a good meal.
Day 13 : Lukla to Kathmandu
We will board our early return flight to the capital – Kathmandu. Upon arrival at the airport in Kathmandu, we will be greeted and received by our representatives. They will take us to our hotels where we can rest for a while. We can explore the remaining part of Kathmandu today and do some shopping. We can also enjoy the nightlife at Thamel as this will be the last day in Nepal.
Day 14 : Departure Day
Our Everest trekking ends today. After breakfast at the hotel, you have some leisure time which you can use for resting or shopping until your departure. After that, we will provide you with a mode of private transport to the airport where we will be bidding farewell. Finally, we will exchange goodbyes and wish you a safe flight back home.
Everest Base Camp FAQ
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How difficult is the Mount Everest Base camp trek?
EBC trek is one of the most challenging treks in the Everest Region. Trekker needs to be physically and mentally fit to hike on the uneven terrains of the Khumbu region. Also, you need to walk an average of 6-8 hours daily.
Trekkers need to be fit and healthy to adapt to high altitude acclimatization. Nevertheless, guides and porters are alongside you for any emergency situation. To get fir for the high-altitude trek like such, we recommend you start regular exercises like stair climbing, bike riding, and running at least 4-6 weeks before starting the trek.
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What are the chances of getting altitude sickness during the Base camp trek?
High altitude sickness is unrelated to your fitness level. Active trekkers can get High altitude sickness during the trek to Mt. Everest Base camp.
Nevertheless, following the pre-defined route and itinerary along with the altitude acclimatization process helps minimize the risk.
During the trek, if you have any symptoms like headache, feeling and being sick, dizzy, tired, loss of appetite, or shortness of breath, you must alarm the guide and stop pushing further.
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Which insurance do I need for the Everest Base Camp trek?
Insurance for the EBC trek should cover up to 6,000-meter altitudes, so please confirm with your travel insurance regarding the insurance policy that covers all altitude-related illnesses. It should also include coverage for Medical evaluation, repatriation, and medical expenses during the trek.
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Are we going to stay at Everest Base Camp?
You will not stay at Everest Base. Instead, you spend around 1-2 hrs maximum. So you can click pictures, take videos and enjoy the moment while at the Mt. Everest Base. After spending the hours, we return to Gorak Shep for a night’s stay.
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Where can I store extra belongings while trekking to base camp?
You can store your extra belongings at your teahouse when you go to base camp and Kalapathar viewpoint.
Also, all your extra luggage can be stored in the Kathmandu hotel, which is unnecessary for your trek.
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Is there Wifi on the Everest Base Camp trek?
Yes, you will get Wifi at your teahouses, but you need to pay extra. However, wifi or phone signals are not available on all the terrains. For this, you need to tell your near ones not to worry if you are not online for a day or two.
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What is the best route for the Mt. Everest base camp trek?
There are variations of the route for Everest Base camp depending upon the interest of the trekkers. The most popular are as follows:
Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lake: This route will add 3-4 days to the regular EBC trek.
EBC via Jiri: This route also adds 2-3 days if you want to avoid the flight.
EBC with three high passes: This is harder than the other route, but the views are amazing. You can do any of these passes.
- Kongma La 5,535 m
- Cho La 5,380 m
- Renjo La 5,388 m
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Does my mobile work at the Everest Base Camp?
Most of the Everest Base Camp route has network coverage, but it is not reliable every time. But still, you can use Wifi which will cost extra. So buy a sim card at Kathmandu, don’t wait till you reach Lukla.
Ncell works pretty well until Tengboche, but after that network is on and off and not reliable, but in Gorak shep, it works.
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What kind of food can be expected during Everest Base Camp trek?
It is always good to expect a minimum, so expect to get rice, lentil soup, and some curry at a higher altitude. In Namche bazaar, there are restaurants and bars.
You can order foods based on the availability of the ingredients and the food menus at tea houses. Trekkers prefer to eat Nepali food and avoid meat items due to the unavailability of refrigeration.
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What is the teahouse like?
Accommodation is typically a small room with two beds with no pieces of furniture. The toilet is outside or separate from the room, which could be squat at some higher altitude. You get hot water on a bucket for an extra fee. The dining area is heated.
During the climbing season(so-called high season), there might not be enough quilts, so it is better to carry a sleeping bag with you. Lower altitude accommodations are comparatively lovely, and rooms are more extensive with tables and chairs with western toilets but manual flush.
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I am a novice trekker. Is it possible to do this trek?
Yes, a novice trekker can go to Everest Base. You need to be healthy and positive and expect a minimum during the trip. To prepare yourself, you need regularly exercise 4-6 weeks before to train your body. You can do it.
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What is the facility for drinking water during the trek?
Water from the tap and stream is not safe to drink directly. Still, you can use water purifying tablets, drops, or any purifying livestock bottle. In addition, you can buy boiled water or bottled water at the tea houses.
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What is the best way to reach Lukla?
There are two ways to reach Lukla: Flight / Heli and walking.
Typically trekkers take a flight that takes about 30 min to Lukla from Tribhuvan International airport. However, if you want to go via land, add 2-3 days more on your itinerary to reach EBC.
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Is flying into Lukla airport dangerous?
Lukla airport is considered a dangerous airport. Nevertheless, there are more than 20 flights per day during the tourist season, which is pretty safe. If you want to avoid flying to Lukla, you have another option: starting the trek from Jiri, which is 5-6 days more. And the other option is starting the trek from Phaplu, which also adds 2-3 days to the regular itinerary of the Everest region.
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Is it necessary to keep extra days for the Everest region trek?
You need to keep some days extra for the Everest region trek. It is tough to predict the weather forecast of the mountain region, so it is better to have some extra days than the itinerary.
Choosing Mountain routes for our trek to Everest Base Camp was the best decision we could ever make. Everything was well planned and organized by Shristy so we could totally focus on ourselves during the trek. Especially as I catched a cold in the mountains and needed more time walking up the hills, our guide MG took special care of me by providing medical help (as I forgot to bring medication by myself) and motivating me in not giving up. Thank you for that!!!
This adventure is an experience for life and I am so glad that we took the chance and challenged ourselves to do the trek. I promise: In case of doubt – You won’t regret it!
Obviously there are many organizations who offer these treks and I cannot say anything about them, but whenever I come back to Nepal one day, I would choose Mountain routes again, without any doubts. Everyone we met from the organization was super friendly, helpful and interested in making everything possible for us. – And eventually they made everything possible that we wished for!
Lots of thanks to the whole team. It was a blast!
I am so glad I came across Mountain Routes and Shristy Subedi, who was able to confirm the itinerary, dates, costs, and accommodation. He would meet me in Kathmandu, upon my arrival, to go through logistics to ensure I was fully prepared for the adventure ahead and to introduce me to my personal guide.
Many thanks to the team at Mountain Routes, Makun and Shristy for making this life experience so wonderful, for their depth of knowledge and genuine care and help – nothing was ever too much trouble. And a big thanks to porters Tring and Santos for carrying my gear in slip-on shoes! I will be back for sure and would highly recommend Mountain Routes to anyone considering one of Nepal’s great hikes – you won’t regret it!
