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Everest Base Camp Trek – Nepal’s Most Famous Trek

Asia , Nepal

The Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the most popular and best treks in Nepal .

Home to four of the six highest mountains in the world – Mt. Everest (8,848 meters), Mt. Lhotse (8,516 meters), Mt. Makalu (8,470 meters) and Cho Oyu (8,201 meters) – the Everest (or Khumbu) region affords trekkers the opportunity to hike in one of the grandest and most awe-inspiring trekking areas in the world. 

Trekkers get to retrace the footsteps taken by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay on their historic Everest expedition in 1953.

On this page, you will find a comprehensive and impartial guide to the Everest Base Camp Trek.

Everest Base Camp Trek

Ebc hike overview.

In this detailed Everest Base Camp trek article, you will find information on the typical route and its variations; a day-by-day itinerary breakdown of the trek; practical information on accommodation, meals, permits, equipment and insurance; as well as guidance on the best time to trek Everest Base Camp.

Key Highlights

Highlights on the trek include: unforgettable mountain views from Kala Patther , including Mt. Everest; the chance to see the famous Everest region Sherpas and Sherpa town – Namche Bazaar; sightseeing in the Sagarmatha National Park – a World Heritage Site; glimpses of the highest Buddhist monasteries in the world; and a sneak preview into the inner workings of the base camp to the world’s highest mountain.

Everest Regional Map

The Everest Base Camp trek is situated in the Everest, or Khumbu region of Nepal (see map below). It is the most popular trek in the region, if not the country.

EBC Recommended Map

This map is one of the better representational schematics of the Everest Base Camp trail (we believe it is from GlobeTrekker but can’t be certain as there are many maps scattered across Google Images).

The map above shows the classic Everest Base Camp trek running up from Lukla to Namche Bazaar and then veering North-east up to Periche / Dingboche. From Dingboche / Periche the trail turns North-west to Lobuche before heading north gain to Gorak Shep. From here Everest Base Camp can be seen to the East and Kala Patthar in the North-west.

The map also shows the route to Island Peak in the East, via Dingboche and Chhukung, and the Gokyo Lakes in the West.

Please Note:  The above recommended map is not to scale and should not be used as an accurate representation of the Everest Base Camp trek route. We provide links below to excellent maps of the Everest region.

EBC Trek Itinerary

Most trekkers fly from Kathmandu to Lukla Airport to begin their Everest Base Camp trek. The ‘classic’ or typical route follows straight up the Khumba Valley and through the Sagarmatha National Park to Everest Base Camp.

Variations via Gokyo Lakes or Chhukhung Valley are also popular (see the variations section below).

The typical Everest Base Camp trek duration is between 14-16 days (including transfers between Kathmandu and Lukla). The trek itself (excluding sightseeing in Kathmandu and transfers) usually lasts about 12 days with acclimatisation days at Namche Bazaar and Pheriche.

Here is a brief overview of a typical itinerary on an EBC trek, with approximate trekking times and altitudes.

Day 1: Arrive Kathmandu

Arrive in Kathmandu. Rest and tour Kathmandu (often your tour operator will have pre-organised tours around Kathmandu).

See more in our guide on things to do in Kathmandu . 

Day 2: Fly Kathmandu to Lukla. Trek to Phakding

Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (expect a slightly scary landing at Lukla but rest assured the pilots are very experienced!). Weather can sometimes be a problem, so delays are common.

The flights afford great views of the Everest region, so have your camera ready. Try to sit on the right side of the plane to see Mt Everest. Upon arrival you will be transported to the trailhead and take a relatively easy trek from Lukla (2,800 meters) to Phakding (2,652 meters).

Namche Bazaar, Khumbu District

Day 3: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar

Phakding (2,652 meters) to Namche Bazaar (3,440 meters) via Monjo (2,840 meters) and the beginning of Sagarmatha National Park. Weather permitting you might get your first glimpses of Mt Everest from the steep trail to Namche.

Day 4: Acclimatisation in Namche

This is usually a rest acclimatisation day in Namche (3,440 meters). If you are lucky enough to be in Namche on a Saturday, then make sure to visit the weekly market. Most operators will encourage you to take an acclimatisation trek to the Everest View Hotel (3,880 meters) where you can have lunch and capture views of Mt. Everest.

Day 5: Trek from Namche to Tengboche

Trek from Namche (3,440 meters) to Tengboche – also written Thyangboche (3,860 meters), home to the largest gompo (a Buddhist ecclesiastical fortification of learning). The trek is an undulating one which provides great views of   beautiful mountains including Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse and Ama Dablam. Some treks go via Thame to visit the Thame Monastery, before continuing to Tengboche.

Day 6: Trek from Tengboche to Periche

Trek from Tengboche (3,860 meters) to Periche (4,280 meters) via the town of Pangboche. The Himalaya Rescue Association are based here, and it is well worth visiting them if your operator hasn’t already organised a tour.

Day 7: Acclimatisation day in Periche

Periche (4,280 meters) is usually used as the location for your second rest and acclimatisation day. Depending on your operator you will likely visit the Tshola Tsho Lake and then take a short trek towards Dingboche (4,360 meters) where you will get great views of the south face of Mt. Lhotse and Island Peak.

Day 8: Trek from Periche to Lobuche

A fairly long and steep trek from Periche (4,280 meters) to Lobuche (4,940 meters) via the Khumbu Glacier. You will see Sherpa Memorials built of stone cairns in remembrance to the many Sherpas and climbers that have died climbing Everest.

Day 9: Trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep

Trek from Lobuche (4,940 meters) to Gorak Shep (5,170 meters) where you will have lunch and then onto Everest Base Camp (5,364 meters).

Most treks are not allowed to stay at Everest Base Camp without specific permission. The rules and regulations have changed around this issue over recent years, so it is worthwhile checking with your tour operator. 

Visits to the icefall require mountaineering permits and are usually not part of a standard Everest Base Camp trek. After visiting Everest Base Camp you will return to Gorak Shep for the night.

Kala Patthar

Day 10: Trek from Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar and EBC (Return to Dingboche)

A trek from Gorak Shep (5,170 meters) up the steep slopes to Kala Patthar (5,554 meters), a peak west of the Everest Base Camp which affords the best views of Mt. Everest, Nuptse Nup II and Changtse; as well as the northern flank and summit of Lhotse. You will leave Gorak Shep early to reach Kala Patther before the clouds roll in.

On a typical Everest Base Camp trek, Kala Patthar will be the highest altitude you will reach. It is also home to the worlds highest webcam – Mount Everest Webcam. From Kala Patthar, you then descend all the way back to Dingboche (4,360 meters). 

Day 11: Trek from Dingboche to Namche

Trek from Dingboche (4,360 meters) to Namche (3,440 meters) via the rhododendron forests around Tengboche.

Day 12: Trek from Namche to Lukla

Trek from Namche (3,440 meters) all the way back to Lukla (2,800 meters) – a long and tiring walk to finish what is an incredible Himalaya trek.

Day 13: Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu

Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu. 

EBC Route Altitude Profile

Above is an altitude profile chart for a typical Everest Base Camp hike. The highest peak is Kala Patthar, at a staggering altitude of 5,554m. 

Everest Route Variations

Below are typical route variations for the Everest BC hike. 

Gokyo-Ri glacier

Gokyo Lakes

The Gokyo Lakes or Gokyo Ri Trek is a fantastic variation on the Everest Base Trek. The route begins in Lukla and follows the traditional EBC trek itinerary for the first three days up to Namche Bazaar. Here it veers off to the North-west via the towns of Dole and Machemo, up to the stunningly beautiful Gokyo Lakes . The trail then ascends Gokyo Ri (5,483 meters) and traverses Cho La Pass (5,420 meters) before joining back up with the classic base camp trek at Lobuche.

The variation adds 2-3 days to an average Everest Base Camp trek but provides an excellent opportunity to avoid the crowds on the busy everest trail, as well as gives one the opportunity to trek up and down on different routes.

Chhukhung Valley

The Chhukhung Valley sits east of Dingboche and provides an alternative and longer passage to Lobuche than the traditional Everest Base Camp trail. Trekkers stay a night in Chhukhung (4,730 meters) before returning to Lobuche via Kongma La Pass (5,535 meters), an epic Himalayan pass .

Island Peak headwall

Island Peak

Island Peak is one of Nepal’s 33 trekking peaks. Standing at 6,189 meters, Island Peak is a real challenge in terms of altitude, but only requires beginner level climbing skills (you will need to be comfortable with ice axes and crampons though). Most climbers use the traditional Everest Base Camp trek to acclimatise for Island Peak. 

Returning from Everest Base Camp, you can either trek to Cchukhung via Dingboche from Lobuche or veer South-east from Lobuche traversing the Kongma La Pass to Cchukhung (4,730 meters). From here you can trek to Island Peak Base Camp (5,120 meters) in preparation for their trek / climb up to Island Peaks summit. The summit typically takes 2 days and the total trip, including Everest Base Camo, between 18-20 days.

Everest Base Camp Trek FAQ

How much does the ebc trek cost.

Like many treks in Nepal, there are three ways you can plan your Everest Base Camp trek. See more in our guide on a detailed breakdown on the cost of an Everest Base Trek . 

Below are four options for Everest Base Camp treks and their estimated costs.  

Independent Trekking

Here you organise your trek. You will need to get yourself from Kathmandu to Lukla (a flight is the fastest and easiest; there are buses but these are rather unpleasant). You can employ the services of a porter or guide in Lukla or indeed in Namche, but it is important to note that as an independent trekker, it is illegal to use a guide or porter that is not licensed as a trekking agent through TAAN, or affiliated with a licensed trekking agent. You will need a Green TIMS card (costing NPR 2,000), money to buy food and water, a reliable and accurate map, and negotiations skills to book teahouse accommodation.

The estimated cost for an independent trek excluding flights is between $500-$800. 

Local Tour Operator 

There are many local tour operators in Kathmandu who organise guided Everest Base Camp treks. Generally local Nepal trekking companies are quite good. You will join a group of trekkers (up to 15 people) and have a team of porters, assistant guides and lead guides (who can speak English) of a similar size to the trekking group.

It is important to check that your local operator is a licensed trekking agent. We recommend shopping around and asking for recommendations from other trekkers. The cheap local operators tend to be the least reliable, often only providing tent accommodation or access to old and poorly run teahouses. Their ethical standards towards staff and the local environment may not be to the highest standard as well. 

The estimated cost for an Everest Base Camp trek organised by a local tour operator is between $800-$2,000.

Western Run / Operated Tours

There are many Western run companies that offer Everest Base Camp treks. Most of these Western companies have their own ground teams or strong relationships with the best local tour operators who they outsource their on-the-ground operation to, whilst managing the overall tour experience.

The best Western companies own their on-the-ground operations. Expect a well-run tour with either a Western guide or a very well-trained local guide who understands the subtle service nuances expected of a Western trekker. 

The estimated cost for an Everest Base Camp trek organised by a Western run tour operator is between $1,200-3,000.

Everest Climbing Expedition

A fourth option of joining an Everest climbing expedition is also possible. Major climbing operators like Adventure Consultants, Jagged Globe or Alpine Ascents usually offer Everest Base Camp trekking spaces on their Everest climbing expeditions. Securing a trekking space can be a little pricey but offers one an incredible insight into an Everest expedition as well as the chance to spend a night or two at Everest Base Camp.

If you think a base camp trek is expensive, wait till you hear how much it costs to Climb Mount Everest !

Are permits required for the EBC trek?

Yes, there are two permits you require for standard treks from Lukla to EBC. They are:

1. Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS Card)

TIMS cards are issued by the Tourism Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN). There are three different types:

• Organised TIMS Card (Blue in colour, USD 10). If you are trekking with an organised tour these will be arranged for you. You will need to provide your passport number and one passport photograph
• Individual TIMS Card (Green in colour, USD 20). If you are trekking independently (without support) you will need to get one of these TIMS cards from the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu
• SAARC Country TIMS Card (Red in colour, USD 3). These cards are for nationals from the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation, i.e. India, Bhutan, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Bangladesh and Afghanistan.

2. Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit  (USD 30 + 13% Govt. Tax)

The Sagarmatha National Park or Solukhumbu is the region through which the EBC trek runs. A National Park entry permit is required to enter Sagarmatha. Permits can be acquired at the first checkpoint along the route, north of Lukla called Monjo. The cost is US$30 + 13% tax for trekkers using a trek operator or agency, as well as for independent trekkers. Permits can also be acquired in Kathmandu, but we recommend getting it in Monjo as it is more straightforward.

For treks from Jiri to Everest Base Camp, there is another permit required called the Gaurishankar Conservation Area Project permit. It costs US$20 (no discount for independent trekkers or SAAEC nationals). The checkpoint is at at Shivalaya (just after Jiri). We recommend getting the permit in Kathmandu before departing as the cost is double if they have to issue the permit in Shivalaya.

As a rule of thumb, we recommend bringing at least 4 passport size photographs for all your permit requirements.

When is the best time to trek to Everest Base Camp?

The best time to trek Everest Base Camp is during the dry and warm months of September through November of March through late May / Early June.

The monsoon rains arrive in mid-late June and get into full swing for the months of July and August (as seen in the average rainfall map below). The route is really too wet for trekking and you would be better placed to explore treks in rain shadow areas like the Upper Manang, Mustang, Annapurna or Dolpo region.

December, January and early February are very cold. Treks run during these periods but be prepared for freezing temperatures and possible snow flurries. The upside is that the route is a lot quieter than in the peak seasons.

The chart shows average temperatures and rainfall in Nepal (data from 1960-1990 compliments of the Climate Change Knowledge Portal at the  World Bank ). 

Is altitude sickness a risk on the Everest Base Camp hike?

Yes, altitude sickness is a risk on the Everest Base Camp route. The trek takes one from a moderately high altitude, 2,800 meters in Lukla, to high altitude, over 5,300 meters at Everest Base Camp and over 5,500 meters at Kala Patthar. At these higher altitudes, the body needs to have acclimatised to the lower saturation of oxygen in the air in order to avoid the symptoms of altitude sickness (or what is sometimes referred to as Acute Mountain Sickness – AMS).

The good news is that a typical Everest Base Camp hike has a slow ascent profile which maximises the amount of time available to acclimatise. Nonetheless, every year 100s of people suffer altitude sickness symptoms and some need to cut their trek short due to more severe complications.

How difficult is the Everest Base Camp Trek?

The difficulty of the Everest Base Camp Trek is relatively low. It should be noted that the Everest Base Camp trek requires no climbing expertise and there are certainly no technical climbing sections. With determination and a basic fitness level, you should be able to trek the route. We have seen old and young, overweight and underweight complete the trek – all with a smile on their face!

With that being said, there are certainly some factors that should be considered prior to your trek, such as altitude, length and  training that will enable you to better understand what you are getting yourself into before deciding.

What gear do I need for the EBC Trek?

One of the most frequent questions that we get asked is what gear should be packed for an Everest Base Camp trek.

To make your life a lot easier we have written a very detailed  Everest Base Camp packing list  article. The list is fairly exhaustive but includes all the absolutely necessary items of clothing and  outdoor gear  that you should bring with you.

You will have the opportunity to either buy or rent gear in Kathmandu, Lukla or even in Namche Bazaar, but in general we recommend you bring with you the main items (i.e.  hiking daypack , hiking boots, warm down jacket, sleeping bag and  sleeping mat ,  trekking poles , appropriate trekking clothes, headgear and  headlamp and gloves etc.)

What travel insurance do I need for the EBC hike?

Trekking Everest Base Camp comes with obvious risks. We recommend you get travel and trekking insurance for all treks in Nepal .

On the Everest Base Camp route, you will reach a maximum altitude of 5,416 meters, so it is important you choose an insurance package that covers you up to that altitude.

Are there any recommended guidebooks for the Everest Base Camp Trek?

Absolutely. There are some great guidebooks and trekking maps to choose from when doing the Everest Base Camp Trek. 

The classic EBC trail itself is well-worn, but there are many smaller yak trails that can confuse people.

We recommend taking a detailed trekking map. The region is sparse, and it is possible to get lost in the many valleys that lie on either side of the main trail. The most recent Lonely Planet Trekking in the Nepal Himalaya provides the most up to date information and maps of the region.

Sian Pritchard-Jones and Bob Gibbons’s book: A Trekking Guide to Everest is also rather good.

For a more general guide to Nepal, you may want to check out the Nepal Lonely Planet Travel Guide .

Are there any other hikes in Nepal you would recommend? 

Yes, there are many other hikes in Nepal that I love.

Some of the most popular alternative Nepal trekking routes are the Annapurna Circuit Trek , the  Langtang Valley Trek  and the  Manaslu Circuit Trek . If you're looking for some easy Nepal hikes , then check out the Poon hill hike or the Royal hike . For short Nepal hiking routes see the Helambu hike , which is near Kathmandu. 

Continue browsing

See more information on  Nepal . Or check out these other Everest/Nepal articles:

• Best Climbing Mount Everest Tips
• Food on the Everest hike
• Internet Access on EBC hike
• Everest Base Camp Trek Deaths and Statistics
• Best Places to Visit in Nepal
• What to Expect in Nepal Tea Houses

About the author 

Mark Whitman

Mark has trekked extensively in Asia, Europe, South America and Africa. He founded Mountain IQ in 2014 with the sole aim to be the best online information portal to some of the most popular mountain destinations around the world. When not writing for Mountain IQ, Mark is out exploring the outdoors with his wife!

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Nice article. Full of true information and very supportive for new trekkers.

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The Ultimate Insider’s Guide to Trekking Everest Base Camp

Hiking / Camping / Tour Companies , TIPS & GUIDES , TRAVEL

At 8,848 meters, 29,029 feet above sea level, Mt. Everest is the tallest mountain in the world, towering over the surrounding peaks in the Himalayas mountain range on the border between Nepal and Tibet.

Even if you’re not a diehard mountaineer, you can still explore this beautiful region of Nepal with a trek to Everest base camp (EBC).

Not only will you get lifelong bragging rights for completing the trek to base camp, but it’s also a beautiful trek in its own right. Amazing vista can be seen passing through the Sagarmatha National Park and the awe-inspiring Himalayas .

Although the trek takes about two weeks, it’s surprisingly accessible and has been completed by many first-time trekkers.

Everest Base Camp: A Brief Overview

Since the first successful summit in 1953 by Sir Edmund Hillary and Sherpa Tenzing Norgay, the imposing peak has attracted decades of adrenaline-seekers wishing to add their name to the list of successful summiteers. A good portion of these climbers never returned .

Despite the intimidating statistics, the sister trek through the picturesque Khumbu Valley to the base camp used by professional mountaineers is an attainable goal for many people.

Located at an altitude of 5,361 meters, 17,590 feet above sea level, you don’t need fancy equipment or mountaineering skills to reach EBC. Certainly, it takes just a positive attitude and a reasonable level of fitness.

There’s a sense of camaraderie and a tangible buzz in the air as the adrenaline of the would-be Everest summiteers infects everybody around them.

The scenery at these altitudes is breathtaking and varied, ranging from rhododendrons and pine fields to rivers; suspension bridges strung with prayer flags; glaciers, lakes, valleys, high mountain passes, and finally, the spectacular Himalayan mountain peaks!

The Sagarmatha National Park is home to rare animal species such as snow leopards and red pandas – though it’s very unlikely you’ll encounter them. You’ll frequently have to step aside (to the uphill side!) as you encounter yaks on the trail.

Whether you choose to follow the traditional EBC route or one of the alternative trails, it’s guaranteed to be an experience you’ll never forget.

In contrast to most multi-day treks where you’d be camping in a tent, trekkers to base camp stay in cozy tea houses. You can find several available in a range of budgets, which function as both hotels and restaurants.

The trek is dotted with Buddhist monasteries and tiny villages almost all the way up. The relaxed pace of the trek allows plenty of time for you to explore the villages and get to know the local Sherpa culture.

Mt. Everest is increasingly covered in garbage left behind by the hordes of people who have set out to conquer its lofty heights. When you go, please respect the environment and do your best to minimize waste.

The most popular time of year to do the Everest base camp trek is between February and May – the pre-monsoon season.

During these spring months, the weather is typically warm and dry and the mountains will be ablaze with colorful rhododendrons.

This is also peak season and while you’re unlikely to have the trails to yourself, you’ll enjoy a buzzing atmosphere at the tea houses on the way. This is also when most Everest climbers make their summit attempts.

The summer months bring the monsoon rains, resulting in slippery trails and a heightened risk of landslides. If that doesn’t deter you, the leeches and foggy weather might! It’s not recommended to attempt the trek in the summer.

It can also be difficult to fly into Lukla during the monsoon. Indeed, this is a good time to pick the Jiri trek over the classic EBC trek.

If you want fewer crowds, try going in September or October, the post-monsoon months, when you have the highest chance of clear skies, although temperatures are slightly colder.

You can even do the trek in the winter but be prepared for sub-zero temperatures most days and lots of snow.

Whenever you go, make sure you pack for unpredictable weather in case a snowstorm takes you by surprise.

Trekkers interested in the local culture might want to plan their trip dates around traditional holidays with celebrations in Kathmandu, such as Holi (February/March) or Indra Jatra (September).

Another thing to consider when planning your trip is flight prices, which can vary considerably. Check flights before booking as this might have a huge impact on when you want to go.

Lastly, be aware that it might be harder to find tour operators who provide treks in off-season months. Also, some of the paths might be closed.

Conversely, if you want a stab at actually sleeping in Everest Base Camp, then late spring is your best option. It will be rare to find tour operators who might be able to wrangle this.

Everest Base Camp Packing list

If this is your first multi-day trek, don’t forget to budget for all the equipment you’ll have to take with you.

You can choose between renting or buying your gear. Hikers who plan on doing more multi-day treks might want to invest in their own equipment.

If you’re doing a two-week trek, it makes more sense to rent your sleeping bag and down jacket. For trekkers who plan on trekking for a whole month, it makes more financial sense to buy.

The neighborhood of Thamel in Kathmandu offers plenty of options for buying and renting. However, the products on offer may be of questionable quality.

Further on, Namche Bazaar is a last-resort option if you find you’ve forgotten to pack any essentials. If you keep your receipts, then talk it over with the shop when buying. Some shops will buy your gear back from you, at the end of your trek, for a reduced price.

Almost everything available for sale along the trek has been carried up the mountain, either by yaks or people. This means things get more expensive the higher you go.

Pack strategically. This means bringing the items you can’t live without while avoiding overloading your backpack. Whether you hire a porter or decide to go solo, somebody will be lugging your things up the mountain. Indeed, think twice before including unnecessary items like an extra book or five spare shirts!

Aim to pack around 10kg if you’re carrying everything yourself, and 20-25kg if you’re getting help from a porter. Don’t forget that your water adds extra weight. Try packing your bag with full water bottles, to get a more accurate idea of how much you can bring.

This list is aimed at trekkers who will be sleeping in tea houses every night. Be aware that if you don’t book early enough, the tea houses may be sold out in high season.

If you think you might end up having to camp, Then you’ll need more supplies not covered on this list, such as a winter insulated tent , sleeping pad , etc.

What to Wear

The clothes you pack will depend on which season you’re visiting in. Make sure you have enough clothing to keep warm, especially in the evenings.

Layers are crucial, as temperatures and weather conditions will change drastically between day and night and as you ascend and descend in altitude.

Tea houses often only heat the common areas, and then only in the evenings, so bring warm clothes for lounging around at night.

The higher you get, the less likely you are to have power in your tea house, or only for a few hours as they’re run off solar power.

Base layers: Your base layer should be comfortable and moisture-wicking. Stay away from cotton; go for merino wool or synthetics .

Pack a long-sleeved shirt (avoid short sleeves as you’re more likely to get sunburnt) and long underwear, if only for the cold evenings.

Fleece mid-layer: You’ll probably be putting this on and taking it off with every mountain pass. Indeed, try to find one that will fit easily into your day pack.

Outer layer: Get a down jacket with a good warmth-to-weight ratio, as you’ll be carrying it much of the time.

Waterproof windbreaker and pants.

Hiking pants: Well-insulated trekking pants , or trekking pants that can turn into shorts. 

Waterproof hiking boots. We can’t stress enough how important it is to break your hiking boots in properly before your trek.

Don’t forget to bring a pair of comfortable sneakers or sandals for the evenings and for bathroom runs.

Socks: Woollen hiking socks are worth the investment – bring a few pairs that can handle very cold temperatures for the higher altitudes, and look for flat seams and padded spots to reduce blisters.

Sock liners and Vaseline are two other good ways to prevent blisters . You should also bring a pair of warm socks for base camp.

Gaiters: These will be especially useful during the rainier months.

Gloves : Pack a thin pair of “inner” gloves and a very warm pair of outer gloves. There will be at least one or two days where your fingers will freeze otherwise – for example, the day you summit Kala Patthar.

Scarf/balaclava/buff: The trail to EBC gets infamously dusty, provoking the “ Khumbu cough ” that plagues many hikers. A buff or something similar will keep you warm as well as provide you with a layer to breathe through to minimize the amount of dust in your lungs.

Beanie and sun hat , preferably with neck cover, to protect against the sun .

Underwear and sports bras: You’ll probably be reusing these, so get good-quality, non-cotton ones.

Accessories

Drinking water: Most tour operators provide purified water. Avoid bottled water, as this is expensive on top of being an environmental disaster.

We recommend bringing two big reusable water bottles (or a water bladder for drinking on the go). Tablets take a while to work and it’s nice to have one water bottle ready to drink while the other one is getting purified.

You can also fill a bottle with hot water and sleep with it in your sleeping bag if you’re cold during the night. If you’re purifying your own water, bring water purification tablets , LifeStraw , or a Steri-pen. But remember, these need charging, and charging on the trail costs money.

You may wish to add flavor enhancers to your water. Unfortunately, at Gorak Shep the water is very mineralized so you’ll need to buy bottled water.

Showering: Whether or not you shower is up to you. Expect to pay around $5 for a hot shower. Some people rely on wet or backpacking body wipes , especially since wet hair is no fun in negative temperatures!

Sunglasses: The combination of snow and altitude is brutal on your eyes, so invest in good polarized sunglasses with wraparound arms.

Sleeping bag : The teahouses will provide blankets and pillows but you’ll want your own sleeping bag and pillowcase.

Find a mummy sleeping bag rated to -20° C – or colder, depending on the season. Consider bringing a silk liner , especially if you’re renting your sleeping bag.

Toiletries: Sunscreen , SPF chapstick (this is better than lip balm as there’s no need to smear it on with your grubby fingers), quick-drying towel, tissue, baby wipes, period supplies, compressed toilet paper tablets or biodegradable toilet paper (remove cardboard and keep in ziptop bag), hand sanitizer, toothbrush and toothpaste, etc.

Always bring toilet paper with you. Most bathrooms are squat toilets and are located only in villages.

Tip : wet wipes are more expensive than toilet paper on the trail, so if you have to choose, stock up on wet wipes and buy toilet paper when you run out.

Shewee: Ladies, you’ll be glad not to have to pull your pants down in the freezing high-altitude weather. If you need to pee, then I recommend using a portable pee device, like PeeBuddy Reusable Female Urination Device . You stand and use the portable pee funnel, so you don’t need to squat.

If you get your period on the trail and you’re not comfortable with using the DivaCup, another good option is to keep used pads/tampons in a ziptop bag and dispose of them in the next garbage can.

Personal first-aid kit: Bring diarrhea meds, altitude meds, antibiotics, ibuprofen, paracetamol, aspirin, bandaids, blister plasters, tape/trekker’s wool, Vaseline, cough drops (to beat the Khumbu cough), cold medicine, rehydration salts.

Tour operators should provide the rest. Don’t forget to get your travel vaccines before you go.

TSA approved padlock for your luggage.

Backpack: What you pack your gear in will depend on whether you’re using porters. Most porters prefer you to pack your things in a soft-sided duffel bag. Check with the tour operator in case they provide these for you.

If you have a porter, then you’ll only need a daypack for yourself. If you’re not hiring a porter, then bring a collapsible daypack anyway in addition to your backpack. This is so you can leave your big backpack in the tea house during the one-day acclimatization hikes.

Try to get a backpack with straps for hiking poles and zippers to open it from the sides. Not to mention, you won’t have to dig everything out of your bag whenever you want to access something.

Dry bag or plastic cover for your backpack and daypack to prevent water ingress.

Hiking poles : These are a must! All the treks listed here will take you uphill, downhill, uphill and downhill again. Hiking poles will save your knees, and they’ll come in handy on slippery trails during the wet season.

Headlamp or flashlight : You’ll be glad to have this in the evenings after the power goes out, and during early-morning or late-night hikes. Remember to bring extra batteries.

Trekking map: If you’re going independently, a good trekking guidebook is essential – Lonely Planet is highly recommended.

Ziptop bags: These always come in handy for protecting electronics, etc.

Camera or GoPro with memory card and extra batteries.

Money: There are ATMs at select points such as Lukla and Namche Bazaar. But these have low daily withdrawal limits and high commission fees. What’s more, they have been known to take money out of your account without actually dispensing it to you.

Since currency exchange rates on the trail are sky-high, it’s best to bring a stash of local rupees with you. You’ll need rupees to pay for meals, showers, tips, etc.

Wi-Fi: A good option for staying connected is to buy a local sim card. It will give you data to about 4000m altitudes, and sometimes in EBC itself.

You can also check Everest Link for Wi-Fi data packages. The connection is supposedly available in most teahouses along the way, but it can be slow and unreliable so don’t depend on it too much.

Top Tip : Beware of phone updates. These will eat through your Wi-Fi and data limits before you realize what just happened!

Entertainment: EBC treks usually only schedule a few hours of hiking a day, to allow you time to acclimatize. Bring books, a Kindle , cards or other games for the many hours of downtime. Certainly, bring a journal so you can remember this once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Solar charger: Many teahouses offer power points where you can charge your devices for a nominal fee. Also, don’t forget to bring an adapter. It’s a good idea to bring your own solar-powered charger and extra batteries to minimize costs.

Tip : Keep batteries, base layers , and anything else you don’t want freezing in your sleeping bag with you overnight. Keep your phone in flight mode to save power.

Important documents: Bring printouts of your travel insurance information. And make sure one of your travel buddies knows what to do and whom to contact in case of an emergency.

Bring your passport, visas, money, etc. – I always keep these documents in a zip-top bag.

Trekking solo? Bring a safety whistle , compass , pocket knife , & duct tape, especially on the less-crowded trails

High-calorie snacks: These will make a huge difference to your experience. Snacks are exceedingly expensive on the trail, and they provide welcome calories on tough trekking days.

You’ll have to decide how many you want to bring and which ones you want to buy along the trail.

Cloth bags : Many trekkers use these to separate dirty laundry and organize different outfits.

Earplugs: You’ll be glad for these when the tea houses are alive with the sound of Khumbu coughs.

A Note on Trekking Insurance

Be very careful when purchasing travel insurance, because regular policies usually stop covering you once you ascend higher than 3,000m/9,840ft.

At these altitudes, you have a higher chance of getting Acute Mountain Sickness. Also, there’s a pretty good chance you’ll have to be airlifted out to a hospital for injuries . To clarify, injuries like a pulled muscle or twisted ankle at sea level can be more serious at higher altitudes.

Because of these higher costs and risks , insurance companies will charge you a premium for high-altitude trekking insurance.

Luckily, there’s no shortage of insurance companies that offer travel insurance specifically tailored to Everest Base Camp trekkers.

When purchasing a policy, make sure you’re covered for trekking up to altitudes of 6,000m/19,685ft. In addition, ensure it has search and rescue costs, preferably by helicopter.

Don’t forget to check if you’re covered for different travel-related illnesses (and make sure you get your vaccinations before going!).

It’s also nice to have compensation for delayed or canceled flights and repatriation in case of death (hopefully you won’t be needing this one).

Check the clause about lost, stolen or damaged luggage to see if it will cover most of the cost of your hiking gear.

If you’re traveling in winter or shoulder season, then check for trip cancelation insurance. This is to ensure you’re covered if your trek is canceled due to weather.

You’ll likely have other considerations depending on your personal situation. Don’t just take our advice for it – remember to do your research, ask questions and read the fine print of your travel insurance policy before you purchase.

I always keep my travel insurance information handy while on the trek. Additionally, I pass it along to someone else in my group. This is so they know whom to contact in case of an emergency.

Some travel insurance providers require you to confirm with them before ordering a helicopter. Check out this option on getting trekking travel insurance for more information.

How to Avoid Altitude Sickness

Most tour operators organize a relaxed trekking schedule and follow the mantra “climb high, sleep low”. In essence, this is to avoid the risk of altitude sickness.

Take it slow – once you finish hiking for the day you’ll have a lot of dead hours in the teahouse. For this reason there’s really no point in racing there.

It’s important to respect the acclimatization days. The acclimatization hikes are designed to help you adjust to tomorrow’s altitude.

Try to drink 3-4 liters of water a day, as dehydration will make the altitude sickness way worse. It also goes without saying that you shouldn’t drink caffeine or alcohol or smoke during your trek.

If you can, then cut out these vices about a week before you start hiking. So that you won’t suffer from withdrawal headaches.

Many people swear by Diamox as a preventative drug against AMS. It’s your choice whether to take this or not. I personally found the tingling fingers and toes to be very off-putting, but it probably helped me acclimatize.

Altitude sickness is unpredictable and doesn’t discriminate based on fitness or age. Listen to your body and descend immediately if you think you have signs of Acute Mountain Sickness.

Check out our article on altitude sickness for a more detailed overview.

Choosing a Tour Operator

Every year there are rumors that the Nepali government will make it compulsory to go with a guide.. But so far, it’s still possible to undertake the trek to EBC on your own.

Unless you’re going in high season, you’ll can drop in at tea houses and get a bed without a reservation.

Independent trekkers can choose whether to hike all by themselves. While others choose between ring a porter, a guide, or a guide and a porter. A guide will speak some English and can help with booking accommodation. However, a porter probably won’t speak English and will only carry your bag.

You can also hire one person who acts as a guide and a porter. Another upside to hiring a guide is that you’ll be providing someone with a job. And in turn, you’ll get to immerse yourself in the Nepali culture.

Alternately, you can opt to join a guided trek with a tour operator. While this is pricier, it’s a good choice for people who have never done such a long, high-altitude trek before.

Tour operators typically arrange flights, airport transfers, accommodation, visas and permits, porters and guides. Western tour operators will usually charge more, but provide a more trustworthy service. You can expect to pay about twice as much for a Western tour operator.

Check to see if your tour operator is registered with the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN). TAAN regulates trekking agencies in Nepal to ensure fair treatment of employees, respect for local communities and preservation of the environment.

The Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project mission is to improve the working conditions of porters. They advocate for fair treatment and wages, lend free mountaineering clothing, and encourage them to work for only ethical companies. Through providing education and training opportunities, guides and porters have received classes on porters rights, Leave No Trace and are certified in First Aid.

Please make every effort to ensure the porters and guides are dressed properly, stay within the weight limit including their own luggage. Also, ensure they have adequate sleeping arrangements and insurance and are paid a fair wage.

It’s better to go with companies that employ their porters and guides full-time instead of freelance because there’s a better chance the company is providing them with benefits, sick days and health insurance.

Tipping is always a tricky subject and suggested rates will depend on whom you ask. Aim for around 15 percent of salary (if you’re traveling in a group, this number refers to the total pooled tip) per porter and/or guide, and adjust accordingly.

The classic Everest Base Camp trek winds through the Khumbu valley; once reaching Everest Base Camp, you’ll retrace your steps back down to Lukla for the return flight to Kathmandu.

If you’re interested in escaping the crowds or doing circular routes that don’t involve retracing your steps, there’s a variety of alternate routes to choose from.

You can also opt to tack small detours onto your classic EBC trek. This is especially doable if you’re traveling independently or in a small group.

You shouldn’t have any trouble booking your trek, even on the classic EBC trek.

Classic Everest Base Camp trek

The classic Everest Base Camp trek takes about 14 days, including time in Kathmandu before and after.

From Kathmandu, you’ll fly into Lukla Airport (2,860m/9,383ft) with its famously short runway – try to sit on the left side of the plane so you can catch your first views of Mt. Everest.

It’s a good idea to leave yourself a few buffer days, as Lukla flights are often delayed due to weather. Flights should be included in your tour price; otherwise they’re about USD 300, plus USD 100 for your guide’s ticket.

From the airport, you’ll trek to Phakding for the night.

The next day you’ll set out from Phakding and follow the Dudh Koshi River, crossing suspension bridges and pine forests until you reach the Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,286ft), in the Sagarmatha National Park UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Namche Bazaar is the region’s principal trading point, so use this opportunity to stock up on supplies you might have forgotten. If you’re there on Saturday, then don’t miss the market. From here you can also catch a peak of Everest.

You’ll take a day to acclimatize in Namche Bazaar – you can make the most of the Wi-Fi, stock up on any supplies you forgot, check out the Sherpa museum or just tool around the village.

The day after you’ll follow the former Tibet-Nepal trading route via Thame to Tengboche. These villages are known for legendary views, where you can visit one of the region’s biggest monasteries .

Next you’ll hike through Phangboche to Pheriche while admiring the views of Ama Dablam. You might be interested to know that Pheriche is where the Himalayan Rescue Association makes its base – but hopefully you won’t need to use this information! 

Most people stay in Pheriche for a day to acclimatize and visit local attractions like the Imja Lake or Dingboche village, which boasts views of Lhotse and Island Peak.

Now that you’re rested, you’ll be ready to tackle the trek to Lobuche, which features a 600m/1,969ft elevation gain. You’ll skirt the perilous Khumbu Glacier and witness the many memorials to sherpas and climbers who perished in their attempt to climb Everest.

From Lobuche you’ll set out towards Gorak Shep, which is the world’s highest permanently inhabited village.

Finally, it’s time to push on through the moraine towards Everest Base Camp! Since actual summiteers of Everest have priority, don’t expect to spend too long there or even be allowed inside the base camp itself.

But don’t worry, the adrenaline-filled atmosphere extends all the way down to the trekker stop point! From here you’ll go back down to Gorak Shep for the night.

You can’t actually see the peak of Mt. Everest from Everest Base Camp, so the next day you’ll make a steep ascent up to the summit of Kala Patthar (5545m/ 18,192ft) to catch amazing views of Everest, Nuptse (7,861m/25,791ft) and Lhotse (8,516m/27,940ft).

Most groups try to do this at sunset on the same day as they reach EBC, or at sunrise the next morning, when Mt. Everest sometimes turns pink in the early-morning light.

Forging on ahead, you’ll descend to Dingboche or Pheriche, and from there past Tengboche and back to Namche Bazaar the next day. Keep an eye out for the massive fields of wild rhododendrons if you’re visiting in the spring!

Your last day of trekking will take you back to Lukla, where you’ll spend the night before catching the flight to Kathmandu.

• Pros : Comparatively gentle altitude profile, can be done independently
• Cons : Have to retrace steps on the way down, can be crowded
• Length : ~130km (12-14 days)
• Highest point : Kala Patthar (5545m/ 18,192ft)

Gokyo Lakes Trek 

The Gokyo Lakes Trek is popular for its beautiful glacial lakes , nestled in the quiet Gokyo valley.

Like the classic Everest Base Camp trek, the Gokyo Lakes trek starts at Lukla, breaking off towards the northwest at the Namche Bazaar.

This trek is considered slightly more challenging than the classic EBC trek, with steeper ascents and more time spent at high altitudes.

It takes 2-3 days longer, detouring around some of the most crowded sections of the classic base camp trek but still finishing at Everest Base Camp.

You’ll see glacial lakes and summit Gokyo Ri (5,357m/17,575ft) where you’ll earn views of Everest, Lhotse and Cho Oyu (8,201m/26,906ft).

Fly into Kathmandu, spend a few days acclimatizing and then take another flight to Lukla. The next day, you’ll trek down through the Dudh Koshi Valley to Phakding past several Buddhist sites.

Hiking through pine forests and along the Dudh Koshi River, you’ll cross several suspension bridges including the Hillary Suspension Bridge. After entering the Sagarmatha National Park, you’ll continue hiking until the Namche Bazaar.

You’ll then separate from the classic EBC trek and head northwest towards Dole along the Dudh Koshi valley. You’ll get some of the first views of Everest, Lhotse and Ama Dablam today.

The next day brings a steep climb towards Machhermo, which is populated with yaks in the summer.

Allow yourself a day to acclimatize and enjoy views of Ngozumpa Glacier (the biggest glacier in the Himalayas). Once you’ve enjoyed the glacier, trek to the Gokyo lakes and you’ll eventually reach Gokyo village. If you are tired by now, you’re in luck because this is where you’ll bed down for the night.

This is another popular time to take an acclimatization rest day and explore the surrounding lakes, or summit Gokyo Ri, which stands almost 5,500m/18,045ft above sea level.

Stop to take in the stunning views of Everest, Lhotse and Cho Oyu, then continue back down to the Ngozumpa glacier and on into Dragnag.

The next day is a tough one. You’ll traverse Cho La, one of the “Three Passes” (5,420m/17,782ft), cross a glacier and then spend the night in Zonglha. 

Joining up with the classic EBC trek, you’ll stop for a moment of reflection at the memorials to sherpas and climbers who perished in their attempts to climb Everest, and then continue on to Lobuche for the night.

From Lobuche, you’ll skirt the Khumbu glacier, hiking up past Gorak Shep and finally you’ll reach Everest Base Camp! Enjoy it while it lasts, because the priority at EBC is the Everest summiteers, especially in the spring months.

You’ll hike back down to Gorak Shep alongside views of the Khumbu icefall . Part of the highest glacier on Earth, the icefall’s deadly crevasses, unstable seracs and unpredictable avalanches have taken dozens of lives.

The next day you’ll hike up Kala Patthar, with more views of Everest and the neighboring mountain peaks, and then down to Dingboche along the classic EBC route.

It’s time to return to Namche Bazaar. The day after you’ll hike back to Lukla through the Dudh Koshi valley, and then fly into Kathmandu.

Because the trek is longer, expect to pay more than you would for the classic EBC trek. Trekkers are advised not to attempt this trek independently, due to the increased difficulty and the fact that there are fewer people on the routes.

Like the classic EBC trek, the best time to go is during spring or fall. Because the trek isn’t as popular, you shouldn’t have to worry about crowds for most of the way, so feel free to go during peak season.

• Pros : Fewer crowds, more challenging, more sights, get to summit a peak, see the world’s highest freshwater lake system, prettier landscapes than classic trek, circular route so no need to retrace steps
• Cons : More expensive than classic EBC trek
• Length : ~220km/136 miles (16-17 days, including a few days in Kathmandu before and after)
• Highest point : Kala Patthar (5545m/18,192ft)

Jiri to Everest Base Camp 

This old-school route mirrors the route taken by the first Everest summiteers in the 1950’s, starting with an 8-hour bus ride from Kathmandu to Jiri instead of flying into Lukla.

From Jiri, you’ll pass through the towns of Sete, Junbesi and Numtala in the Solu Khumbu region.

After reaching Lukla, you’ll join up with the classic EBC trek, passing through Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Pheriche and Gorak Shep.

In total, the Jiri route takes about 5-6 days longer than the classic route.

Jiri route trekkers will have the chance to spend a lot more time with the locals. You’ll also spend more time at low altitudes – the route starts at just 1,800m/5,905ft above sea level – meaning landscapes will forests and streams with actual running water.

Much of the trek is off the beaten path, with fewer crowds than the EBC classic trek.

Tool around Kathmandu for a day and then take an 8-hour (190km/118 mile) bus ride, following the Sun Koshi River to Jiri and then Shivalaya.

The next day, you’ll cross a suspension bridge over the river and then explore several tea houses. Go through the Deorali Pass, taking a moment to check out the prayer flags and decorated walls, and then head down to Bhandar for the night.

From Bhandar, you’ll walk through fields and forests before embarking on a steep descent t

owards the village of Kenja. Uphill again, you’ll traverse the Lamjura Pass and arrive at the town of Sete.

The next day, you’ll return to the Lamjura Pass and pass through magnificent fields of pine trees, magnolia and rhododendrons. Without a doubt, you’ll appreciate the stunning mountain views. Next,hike down the other side and you’ll arrive at the town of Junbesi.

Back into the forest, you’ll see Mt. Everest for the first time. You’ll then cross the Ringmo Khola suspension bridge and arrive at the village of Ringmo with its gorgeous Tibetan architecture. Another forest and you’ll be at Nunthala.

In the morning, you’ll head out towards the Dudh Koshi River, crossing another impressive suspension bridge on your way to Bupsa.

The next few days will take you to higher altitudes as you pass through forests with monkeys and several small villages.

Arriving in Lukla, you’ll join up with the classic EBC trek. After reaching Everest Base Camp, you’ll summit Kala Patthar for the obligatory views of Mt. Everest at dawn and then return through Gorak Shep, Namche Bazaar and finally Lukla, for your flight back to Kathmandu.

Like the classic Everest trek, the Jiri route is best undertaken in spring or fall. Caution: some parts of the Jiri trek may be closed in the winter, so we don’t recommend going during this season.

The Jiri route is only slightly more difficult than the classic Everest Base Camp route, due to its longer duration.

The average day of hiking comprises 5-6 hours, covering about 15km/9 miles. On the bright side, due to the more gradual ascent compared with the classic trek, you’re less likely to get altitude sickness.

• Pros : More authentic, less touristy, chance to see Solo Khumbu landscapes (terraced farmland, forests, Dudh Koshi river, sherpas), gradual acclimatization
• Cons : 8-hour bus ride (but scenic!)
• Length : ~250km/155 miles (22 days, of which 18 days of trekking)
• Highest point : Kala Patthar (5,545m/ 18,192ft)

Three Passes Trek 

As you might infer from the name, the Three Passes trek takes you across three high mountain passes (all higher than 5,000m/16,400ft). Thus, making it more difficult than the classic EBC trek.

After reaching Namche Bazaar, the Three Passes trek splits off from the classic trek. This takes you towards Thame and the Nangpa Valley. The trek takes around 19 days in total, of which 14-15 will be spent trekking. Getting a guide is highly recommended.

After flying into Lukla from Kathmandu, you’ll work your way down to Phakding.

The next day will take you across several suspension bridges on the way to Namche Bazaar. You’ll be there for a day of acclimatizing. After which you’ll split off from the classic EBC route and head to Thame.

Crossing the Bhote Koshi river, you’ll reach Lumde and catch your first good views of the mountain peaks. The next day, you’ll tackle the first pass.

The Renjo La (5,360m/17,585ft) lies near the Dudh Koshi valley and will reward you with views of Everest. Then you’ll pass the Gokyo lakes and the village of Gokyo, where you’ll summit Gokyo Ri and catch sight of Cho Oyu.

After spending some time acclimatizing in Gokyo, you’ll walk across the Ngozumpa Glacier. This is Nepal’s largest glacier, and you’ll then spend the night in Dragnag.

The next day is notorious. You’ll traverse the next pass, Cho La (5,420m/17,782 ft), which has a glacier and prayer flags at the top. On the other side of the pass lies Zonglha.

Joining back up with the base camp trek, you’ll visit Lobuche and Gorak Shep and take in views of the Khumbu Glacier, Everest, Lhotse and Nuptse.

You’ll explore Everest Base Camp and summit Kala Patthar before retracing your steps back through Gorak Shep and Lobuche.

The trek keeps on going, past the Kongma La pass (5,535m/18,159ft), down into the Chukkung valley and up to the summit of Chukking Ri (5,550m/18,209ft) with more mountain views.

You’ll trek through Dingboche, with its views over the Khumbu Valley. Eventually, you hike down through the rhododendron fields and the village of Khumjung, ending back at the Namche Bazaar.

From here you’ll cross the Dudh Koshi, following the classic EBC route back down to Lukla.

This trek can also be done backwards; it’s up to you whether you want to head clockwise or counter-clockwise after the Namche Bazaar.

Many people recommend doing the trek counter-clockwise to avoid crossing the difficult Renjo La Pass right off the bat.

You’re best off doing this trek with a tour operator, as it’s quite off the beaten path.

• Pros : See a little bit of everything, uncrowded trails, challenging elevation profile
• Cons : Riskier terrain than classic EBC trail, long stretches with no facilities
• Length : ~21 days (150km/90 miles)
• Highest point : Chukking Ri (5,550m/18,209ft)

Island Peak (Imja Tse)

Experienced trekkers who wish to try their hand at mountaineering might be interested in summiting Island Peak (6,189 m/20,305 ft).

To master the glaciers and icy headwall during the ascent of these peaks, you’ll need to use crampons, an ice ax and potentially a ladder and ropes to cross the crevasses, depending on the weather.

Tour operators claim you can learn these skills on the fly, but it’s better to have some prior mountaineering experience before you tackle these routes, which are significantly more challenging.

That being said, Island Peak is a relatively “easy” climb as far as climbs go, so it’s a good option if you’re looking to expand your repertoire. 

Since a detailed itinerary of Island Peak is outside the scope of this article, be aware that the general packing list doesn’t include the specialized mountaineering equipment you need for this trek.

Likewise, ascending Island Peak takes you above 6,000m and will probably not be covered by standard travel insurance providers, so check with your local mountaineering association for options.

Practical Information

What will I eat? How much will the trip cost? These are the questions most frequently asked.

As a general rule, the tea house lodgings themselves are very, very cheap with the condition that you eat dinner and breakfast in the same lodge.

This is where your costs will really add up – food is very expensive – so check with your tour operator when booking to see if meals are included.

Food on the trek is repetitive but nourishing. The meals are carb-heavy – think pasta dishes, dahl baht or “sherpa stew” with veggies and noodles.

What other trek offers the convenience of stopping in at a tea house or bakery for a hot lunch or freshly baked pastry? Just be prepared for stretches where you won’t see a tea house for several hours.

Hot drinks are readily available, and a popular treat is a deep-fried Mars bar. Don’t leave without trying one!

Most people recommend going vegetarian during the trek. Sagarmatha National Park has a no-kill policy so all meat has to be carried up by porters or yaks and is never very fresh, so there’s a real risk of getting sick.

Much of the garbage that’s disposed of in the villages ends up getting burned on-site, which really makes you consider the impact of your waste.

Before wantonly throwing plastic into the garbage cans, try to reduce what you use and pack out as much as you can.

The budget for your trip will vary widely depending on whether you’re trekking independently or going with a tour operator.

If you are booking with a tour operator, the flight price and permit prices should be included – usually you’ll have to pay for your guide’s flight as well.

Tour prices run from about USD 1000 to 3000 depending whether you go local or get a Western tour operator.

Budget around USD 400 for the flight from Kathmandu to Lukla Airport, including your guide’s ticket. If you go independently, consider getting help from a local agency for buying your flight tickets.

Flights have a way of being overbooked and you’re more likely to get on the plane if a local agent is vouching for you. On this note, factor in a few buffer days for your flight from Lukla back to Kathmandu, in case of weather or overbooking delays. 

Nationals of all countries except India will need a visa to enter Nepal, which costs USD 25 for 15 days, USD 40 for 30 days and USD 100 for 90 days.

You’re best off getting the 30-day visa even if your trek is only scheduled to take two weeks, as weather and other factors might extend the trip unexpectedly. For the most part, you can get your visa when you land in Nepal.

It used to be mandatory to purchase a Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card, but the laws on this are constantly changing and there is a new local tax being charged, so check before you go unless your tour operator is arranging paperwork for you.

You will need a Sagarmatha National Park entry permit, which you can get ahead of time or at Monjo, when entering the park.

The price of the permits will normally be included in the trip price if going with a tour operator. Bring several passport photos for the permits.

All Set: Are You Ready?

The name “Everest” may sound intimidating, but this is actually one of the more approachable multi-day treks out there.

If you have a reasonable fitness level and are comfortable walking uphill for several hours a day carrying a heavy backpack, then you should be able to complete the trek. The key is to go slowly to avoid altitude sickness.

You don’t need special mountaineering know-how or an incredible level of fitness. The hike to EBC is a relaxed one, as hikes go.

The pace is slow, to allow you the time to acclimatize, so you’ll have plenty of free hours to peruse the village cafés, tuck into a slice of apple pie and snuggle up with a good book or make friends over a game of cards back at the teahouse.

That being said, of course it’s a good idea to prepare for the trek by hitting the gym in the months prior to your departure, and plenty of practice hikes starting two months before you go.

Don’t forget to practice hiking with a heavy backpack on! Check out this article for more tips on preparing for an uphill hike .

In total, the trek is around 130km/81 miles round trip, with an elevation gain of 2,685m/8,809ft between Lukla (2,860 m) and Kala Patthar (5,545 m).

It’s usually done in just under two weeks, including rest days for acclimatization. The outward leg will take longer and you can expect to trek 5-6 hours per trekking day, covering an average of 15km/9 miles.

The hike from EBC back to Lukla will go much faster since you’ll already be acclimatized.

Plenty of people with no prior trekking experience manage to complete the EBC trek and you can too! Like any non-technical trek at altitude , the key is a proper pace, a decent level of fitness and most of all, a good attitude!

Have you been trekking in Nepal? Let us know about it in the comments section below!

Disclaimer : This post is for information only and is not intended to replace the advice of an experienced guide. Always do your research and check with local weather stations, etc. before attempting to undertake treks in the wild. Distances are approximate and routes may vary depending on your tour operator.

Photos via Depositphotos.

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Discovering the Height of Everest Base Camp

: 2024-03-19

Last Updated : 2024-03-26

Everest Base Camp is a starting point for climbers aiming to summit Mount Everest. Knowing its height gives insight into the challenges trekkers face. Let’s explore the discovery of Everest Base Camp’s height and what it means for those attempting this incredible feat.

Table of Contents

The challenge of discovering the height of everest base camp, terrain and altitude of ebc.

Hiking at Everest Base Camp in Nepal involves rocky paths and icy glaciers. The trail passes through famous spots like Lukla, Kathmandu, Namche Bazaar, and the Khumbu region before reaching the North Base Camp of Mount Everest .

Trekkers find teahouses for accommodations and face high-altitude conditions. Altitude is a significant worry to everyone heading to EBC because it can cause acute mountain sickness (AMS) if climbers don’t acclimatize properly. EBC’s altitude is higher than many other base camps, so climbers need ample rest and acclimatization days to avoid the effects of thin air and low oxygen levels.

Despite the stunning views of Mount Everest and the Sherpa guides, climbers need to be cautious about the challenges of high altitude with the height of Everest Base Camp.

The Importance of Knowing the Height of EBC

Knowing the height of Everest Base Camp is important for trekkers planning to go on the EBC trek in Nepal.

EBC is located at an altitude of 17,600 feet, posing a risk of altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness.

Understanding the elevation and Height of Everest Base Camp is very important as it helps trekkers plan for acclimatization days to prevent AMS and ensure a safe adventure.

Being aware of the height of Everest Base Camp, altitude before starting the journey from Kathmandu to the north base camp in the Himalayas enables climbers to pace themselves, rest at teahouses, and acclimate to high-altitude conditions for a safe and memorable trek.

How high is Everest Base Camp?

Elevation comparison with other famous peaks.

• Everest Base Camp : Located in Nepal at an altitude of 5,364 meters (17,598 feet).
• Annapurna Base Camp : Situated at an elevation of 4,130 meters (13,551 feet) in the Annapurna region of Nepal.
• Makalu Base Camp : Found at an altitude of around 5,250 meters (17,224 feet) above sea level, offering a magical scenery for adventure trips.
• Kanchenjunga Base Camp : Positioned at an elevation suitable for experiencing remoteness, spectacular mountain scenery, diverse flora and fauna, and rich local culture, quite different from other regions.
• Dhaulagiri Base Camp : Located at a higher altitude, providing a strenuous but rewarding trek around the Annapurna region with diverse mountain climates and stunning Himalayan beauty

This difference in elevation showcases the varying heights of these renowned base camps in the Himalayas of Nepal, with Everest Base Camp being situated at a higher altitude than any other.

Altitude Sickness Concerns

Altitude sickness is a big concern when trekking to Everest Base Camp in Nepal. The adventure starts in Lukla, where you fly from Kathmandu before heading to Namche Bazaar. As you go higher towards the North Base Camp near Mount Everest, altitude becomes a serious issue.

Taking rest days to get used to the high altitude is crucial to avoid acute mountain sickness. This can cause symptoms like headaches and fatigue or even more severe cases that need immediate descent. Travelers should know the signs and dangers of high-altitude conditions in places like the Khumbu Icefall and the difficult moraine terrain.

On the trail, there are tea houses where you can stay, and sherpa guides who can help you navigate. If AMS occurs, there are oxygen supplies, rest stops, and medical treatments available. Proper planning, like getting permits and arranging supplies with porters or yaks, is key for a safe journey to Everest Base Camp, especially in the tough winter.

Travel and Time to Reach EBC

Journey from Nepal to EBC

The journey from Nepal to Everest Base Camp (EBC) is a thrilling adventure. It offers trekkers a chance to explore the majestic Himalayan mountains.

Starting in Kathmandu, trekkers usually fly to the small town of Lukla. From there, they begin the trek towards EBC.

Along the trail, they pass through Namche Bazaar, a major hub for climbers and trekkers in the Khumbu region.

As they ascend, the altitude increases drastically. Proper acclimatization days are necessary to prevent acute mountain sickness.

Teahouses provide accommodations along the trail, offering a cozy resting place for weary hikers.

The challenging terrain of EBC includes snow-covered paths, moraines, and the notorious Khumbu Icefall.

Sherpas, experienced in high-altitude expeditions, guide climbers through the difficult sections towards the North Base Camp.

Climbers require permits to enter the region. A well-planned itinerary with rest days is crucial for a successful ascent.

Winter expeditions face extreme weather conditions. The post-earthquake region shows signs of resilience and reconstruction efforts.

The presence of the iconic Mount Everest in the background serves as a reminder of the ultimate summit goal for mountain climbers.

Accommodations at Everest Base Camp

Accommodations at Base Camp in Nepal’s Khumbu Region are typically teahouses. They offer cozy lodging for trekkers heading to Everest Base Camp. Teahouses have basic but comfortable rooms, often with shared amenities due to the high altitude.

For dining, travelers can enjoy hearty meals in teahouse dining areas. Popular options include dal bhat, a Nepali dish that provides energy for the adventure. During acclimatization days, hikers can explore Namche Bazaar or admire views of Mount Everest and other peaks.

Excursions to the challenging Khumbu Icefall or Rongbuk Monastery in Tibet are possible for those seeking more adventure. South Base Camp offers essential services and experiences to support climbers, hikers, and expedition enthusiasts on their journey to Earth’s highest summit.

The Costs of the EBC Trip

Budgeting for the journey.

When budgeting for a trek to Everest Base Camp in Nepal , travelers need to consider various expenses such as permits, accommodations, and supplies.

The altitude and the height of Everest Base Camp is over 17,000 feet, which poses an adventure challenge that requires careful planning. Starting the journey in Kathmandu, a flight to Lukla is required before beginning the trail towards Namche Bazaar.

Acclimatization days are crucial to avoid AMS. Accommodations along the trail are typically in teahouses, offering budget-friendly options.

Hiring porters or yaks for carrying supplies can help reduce the physical challenge. Traveling during the offseason, like winter, may result in lower permit costs.

Porter Service and its Benefits

Porter service is a valuable asset for trekkers heading to Everest Base Camp in Nepal .

These experienced individuals assist in carrying supplies, allowing travelers to focus on enjoying the adventure without the heavy load.

Porters help trekkers tackle the challenging trail from Lukla to Namche Bazaar, ensuring a smoother journey.

Additionally, they play a crucial role in acclimatization, ferrying gear while hikers rest along the way to avoid altitude sickness.

In the high-altitude Himalayan region, where conditions can be unpredictable, porters provide essential support in maintaining safety and comfort.

Their assistance is particularly vital during the harsh winter or monsoon seasons, when the trail can be more treacherous.

Exploring the History of Everest Base Camp

–Exploring Everest Base Camp: A Brief Guide–

The history of Everest Base Camp is intertwined with the rich legacy of mountaineering, exploration, and human ambition. Here’s a brief overview:

• Early Exploration: Before the 20th century, Everest, known locally as Sagarmatha in Nepal and Chomolungma in Tibet, remained largely unexplored by Westerners. The first recorded sighting by a Westerner was by British surveyors in the 19th century.
• Initial Expeditions: The desire to conquer Everest grew in the early 20th century. Numerous expeditions were launched, with the British Mount Everest Expedition of 1921 being the first notable attempt. Though unsuccessful in reaching the summit, it laid the groundwork for future endeavors.
• George Mallory and Andrew Irvine: Perhaps the most famous early attempt was made by Mallory and Irvine in 1924. Their fate remains a mystery, as they disappeared near the summit. Mallory’s body was discovered in 1999, but whether they reached the top before perishing is still debated.
• First Successful Ascent: On May 29, 1953, Sir Edmund Hillary of New Zealand and Tenzing Norgay , a Sherpa of Nepal, successfully reached the summit via the South Col route. This historic achievement marked the first confirmed ascent of Everest.
• Establishment of Base Camps: As mountaineering expeditions became more organized, the need for established base camps became apparent. These camps served as logistical hubs for climbers to acclimatize, plan their ascent, and rest between attempts. The lower base camp, situated in Nepal, is at an altitude of around 5,364 meters (17,598 feet), while the higher base camp, on the Tibetan side, is approximately 5,200 meters (17,060 feet) above sea level.
• Commercialization and Modern Era: In recent decades, Everest Base Camp has witnessed a surge in commercial expeditions, with numerous adventure companies offering guided treks to the base camp. This influx has brought both economic benefits and challenges, including issues related to environmental degradation and overcrowding.
• Tragedies and Controversies: Everest Base Camp has also been the site of numerous tragedies, including avalanches, crevasse falls, and altitude-related illnesses. Controversies have arisen regarding overcrowding, safety standards, and ethical considerations, particularly concerning the commercialization of Everest expeditions.

Despite these challenges, with the height of Everest Base Camp, yet the Everest Base Camp remains an iconic destination for adventurers and mountaineers from around the world, symbolizing the enduring human spirit of exploration and conquest.

Crafting the Perfect Itinerary for your EBC Trek

Crafting the perfect itinerary for your EBC trek involves considering different factors:

• Accommodations
• Acclimatization

Plan for acclimatization days in Namche Bazaar. This helps adjust to the high altitude and prevent AMS. Scheduling rest days is important. This allows your body to recover and enjoy views of Mount Everest.

Start your adventure in Kathmandu and fly to Lukla for the trek. This saves time and makes the journey efficient. Teahouses along the trail offer cozy accommodations. Sherpa guides and porters provide support.

Explore the Khumbu region. Witness the snow-covered peaks and visit Everest Base Camp North and South. Be aware of winter conditions.

Crafting a well-thought-out itinerary ensures a safe and enjoyable EBC trekking experience in the Himalayas of Nepal.

Final thoughts

In 2020, the height of Everest Base Camp or the Camp’s elevation was officially measured for the first time. Using satellite technology, the new height is 17,590 feet (5364 meters) above sea level. This is lower than what was previously thought. 

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We help adventure-seekers plan and book their dream trek to EBC

Welcome to EBC Trek Guide

Reaching Everest Base Camp has become the goal of thousands of avid trekkers the world over. There is a sense of grandeur that comes with trekking through an area considered a Mecca for climbing and mountain enthusiasts.

This website is the most comprehensive online guide to the Everest Base Camp Trek. On it you will find all the information you need to trek safely and successfully in the region.

On this page we provide a general overview to the Everest Base Camp Trek, along with many links to further reading on topics like: Altitude Sickness, Packing Lists, Route Variations and many FAQs!

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Everest Base Camp Trek FAQ

What makes the everest base camp hike special.

The iconic Everest Base Camp Trek leads you through the Khumbu Valley, allowing you to experience the immense beauty of the surrounding  Sagarmatha National Park  while simultaneously providing breath-taking vistas of 4 of the 6 highest peaks in the world – My. Everest (8.848m), Mt. Lhotse (8,516 meters), Mt. Makalu (8,470 meters) and Cho Oyu (8,201 meters).

The classic trek retraces the footsteps of Sir Edmund Hillary, Tenzing Norgay and the countless other early pioneers of Mount Everest as you trek from Lukla to the Base Camp.

As a  teahouse trek  you will stay in some of the highest villages in the world as you explore the local culture and traditions of the native Sherpas by learning about their spiritual connection with the mountains.

On the trek you will have the chance to ascend  Kala Patthar , reaching an altitude of 5,500m and witness awe-inspiring views of Mount Everest.

You will also have the chance to explore the various Buddhist monasteries dotted along the trail and learn about a culture steeped in history and tradition, inextricably linked to the very mountains on which you have unforgettable views.

Below we have provided a brief overview of the classic route itinerary, with regional and trekking maps. We have also answered some of the most frequently asked questions on the logistics of the trek, permits, tour guides, weather, insurance, cost, difficulty and what to pack.

Where is the Everest base camp trek located?

All treks in the Everest region are located within the orange rectangle on the map below. The block represents the Everest or Khumbu region of Nepal and shows its location in relation to Kathmandu, where flights to and from Nepal arrive and depart.

The starting point of the Everest Base Camp Trek,  Lukla , is also visible on the map. Other variations of the trek which don’t involve flying to Lukla generally start at Jiri – you can read more about this route variation  here .

What is the best Everest region map?

There are many great trekking maps for the Everest Region. Some take in the Gokyo region, whereas others cover Jiri and further Southern and Western aspects of the region.

We recommend Nepa Maps .

What is the best Everest guidebook?

We recommended taking a detailed guidebook with you on the trek. 

The Lonely Planet Trekking in Nepal Himalaya guidebook is updated regularly and is a well-known, trusted resource used by many trekkers worldwide.

The guide is very detailed and contains information for many treks, meaning you can use it more than once!

How high is Everest base camp?

Everest base camp is 5,364 metres (17,598 ft) high. The graph below shows the altitude profile for the classic Everest Base Camp trek. The order of the names on the horizontal axis shows the typical progression of the hike with the major stops on the way. The graph makes it easier to see the gradual ascent and more rapid descent of the trek.

The highest point on the EBC hike is Kala Patthar at 5,554 meters.

What is the day-to-day itinerary on the Mt Everest base camp hike?

The classic Everest Base Camp Trek starts in Lukla and leads you through the Khumbu Valley to the Everest Base Camp situated on the south-side of Mount Everest.

Most trekker’s adventures, however, begin in Kathmandu where the international airport for Nepal is located. From there it is a short, yet  unforgettable flight into Lukla  from where you will start the actual trekking (try get a seat on the left hand side of the plane for best first views of the Himalaya).

The entire journey including the trek typically lasts between 14 and 16 days, with 12 days on the trail. Of these 12 days, 2/3 will be spent acclimatising to the high altitude, so 9-10 days of actual trekking can be expected.

For those who don’t want to start their trek by flying into Lukla Airport, the  Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek  variation provides a unique alternative. This trek starts with a bus ride from Kathmandu to Jiri from where the trekking starts. Because Jiri is considerably further away than Lukla, this variation will add around 5 days onto the trek.

Here is a standard itinerary for a 14-day Everest Base Camp Trek experience.

Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu 

If you have organised a trip with a tour operator they will usually provide airport transfers, otherwise there are loads of taxis available at the airport. Top tip: make sure to agree a price before getting in the taxi. Meters are sometimes used, but rare. We recommend staying in Thamel (which is about 15 minute drive from Kathmandu airport). There are many hotels in Thamel, Kathmandu, with varying degrees of hospitality.

Vibrant streets of Thamel, Kathmandu

Day 2: Fly Kathmandu to Lukla. Trek to Phadking

Weather permitting you will fly from Kathmandu International Airport to Lukla in the morning. Flights to Lukla are prone to delay due to weather. We recommend building as much flexibility into your itinerary to cater for delays (i.e. having a day or two spare after the trek).

If trekking with a tour operator they will have arranged your flight, otherwise you can purchase tickets at the airport for around US$250-$300 return. If you are taking a guide the cost of his flight with be charged at a local rate of about $100 return.

Expect a nerve-racking flight into the famous Lukla Airport that provides great views of the region and of Everest – try to get a seat on the left side of the plane. Once landed, you will start the trek to the village of Phadking – on the way you will pass incredible boulders, carved with Buddhist prayers.

Day 3: Trek from Phadking to Namche Bazaar

This day will be spent trekking from Phadking through Mojo, ending up in Namche Bazaar. Some people cut this day short by stopping in Mojo (if you do the Mount Kailash Teahouse is great, and offers hot showers!).

You will enter the Sagarmatha National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) on this day. You will have plenty of time spent in Namche Bazaar – a small Sherpa market town, with countless sightseeing opportunities including the potential to catch your first glimpse of Everest.

Sign with rules about entering Sagamartha National Park

Day 4: Acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar

At close to 3,500m, Namche Bazaar acts as an important acclimatization stop while doubling up as an opportunity to explore the village and surrounding areas. If it happens to be a Saturday, be sure to check out the market. Most tour guides will take you on a short acclimatization trek to the Everest View Hotel.

If it’s a clear day you should be able to snap some awesome pics of Ama Dablam in the foreground, and Mount Everest in the background. The hotel also provides WiFi at a cost so if you’re looking to call back home or just to connect, bring your device with you. For more information on internet on the trek, check out our detailed article .

Namche Bazaar

Day 5: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche

The day is spent trekking from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche, the home of the Tengboche Monastery – the largest in the region.

Some variations will take you through the ancient Tibet-Nepal trading route over the Nanpa La pass to Thami.

Day 6: Trek from Tengboche to Periche

The next stop on the trek is Pheriche – the home of the Himalaya Rescue Association . The route takes you through Phangboche, which offers amazing views of Ama Dablam towering above you.

Day 7: Acclimitization Day. Potentially Trek from Pheriche to Dingboche

Pheriche is usually used as a stop for the second acclimatization day. There are various activities to do in the area. Tshola Tsho Lake is a popular destination for trekkers stopping in Pheriche.

Your tour guide might even take you to the nearby village of Dingboche where you will be able to see great views of Lhotse and Island Peak to the east. Dingboche is used as the start to the  variation trek to Island Peak .

Day 8: Trek from Pheriche to Lobuche  

This day is long and is spent climbing over 600m from Pheriche to Lobuche. On the way, you will pass the well-known Khumbu Glacier as well as various memorials to those Sherpas and climbers who have died on Everest.

You will be able to see Scott Fischer’s memorial here. You will also see Lobuche East (make sure to use the zoom on your camera or if you have binoculars to try see any climbers on the peak)

Scott Fischer's memorial

Day 9: Hike from Lobuche to Gorak Shep

Hike from Lobuche to Gorak Shep, the highest permanently inhabited village in the world. Here, you will rest for a while and have something to eat before climbing further to the Everest Base Camp.

The trekker stop point is just before the actual base camp.

Most tour groups are not allowed to enter or stay in Everest Base Camp so take the chance to experience the buzz and excitement of the climbing groups is often limited.

After getting your iconic picture taken at EBC you will descend back to Gorak Shep where you will stay for the night.

Day 10: Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar, then onto Dingboche

Another day of steep trekking allows you to reach Kala Patthar – the highest point on the trek at just over 5,500m. Its location and height result in the best views of Everest, Nuptse and Lhotse in the area. Just hope that the weather is kind to you on this day as it is one of the highlights of the whole trek.

That same day you will descend over 1,000m down to Dingboche where you will spend the night.

View from Kala Patthar with EBC, the Khumbu Glacier, Nuptse and Mount Everest in the background

Day 11: Hike back to Namche Bazaar from Dingboche

Descend back to Namche Bazaar via Tengboche. Keep your camera on you as you pass through the rhododendron covered slopes – making for a great photo.

Day 12: Hike from Namche Bazaar to Lukla

Return all the way back to Lukla with a long day of hiking. Your last night on the mountain will be spent celebrating in Lukla.

Day 13 and 14: Fly back from Lukla to Kathmandu

Catch the return flight from Lukla to Kathmandu in the morning. Onward travel back home our to your next destination!

More Everest Base Camp hike FAQs

How much does it cost to trek to everest base camp.

You can trek to Mt Everest base camp for as little as $700 if you go solo without a guide. Guided tours that often include return flights to Kathmandu cost around $1000-1300 per person depending on the operator. For a detailed breakdown of costs, see our article on the cost of the Everest Base Camp Trek .

Can you trek to Everest Base Camp independently or without a guide / support?

Yes, but it is only advised for trekkers that have experience of high altitude multi-day trekking, and are comfortable carry 15-20kg a day.

Trekking independently is the cheapest option because you forgo any of the amenities and expertise that is typically offered with a guided trek. You will have to arrange your own domestic flights to and from Lukla airport, and arrange accommodation for each stop in the trek.

If you are comfortable organising the logistics of the trek, then this might be an option for you.

Should I join a guided EBC trek / group?

If this is one of your first high altitude trekking experiences then we recommend using a tour operator and joining a guided group. The typical package will include domestic flights, transport to and from the airport, accommodation for every overnight stop, all permits and passes, porters to carry your luggage and of course the expertise of a guide who will provide you with an insight into the region.

Local tour operators are abundant and often cheaper than western operators, but their level of service will be reflected in their price. Hygiene and ethical standards of some of these operators is also questionable. Prices range from £600 ($750) to £1200 ($1500). To book with one of my vetted local operators, check out our booking platform, Skyhook .

Western tour operators will provide a much more consistent service. Without cutting prices, they offer affordable yet comfortable accommodation and will employ the best guides in the region who will be able to converse in English. Prices range from £1200 ($1500) to £2500 ($3200).

When is the best time to hike to Everest Base Camp?

Contrary to what you might think, the best time to go on the Everest Base Camp trek is not during the height of summer. The spring months of February through May is widely considered the peak season or best time to hike to Everest base camp. This is also the time when the region is at its busiest.

Weather during these months is stable and dry – perfect for trekking and for sightseeing. The lower mountains and foothills are most colourful during this time as well, so you can expect verdant fields and hillsides covered in rhododendrons.

September and October is another popular trekking period on the other side of summer that tends to be a little less busy. Another way to avoid the hustle and bustle of peak season is to try some of the trek variations such as the Gokyo Lakes hike .

Trekking in the winter months (November-January) is still possible, but be prepared for temperatures below freezing. Peak summer is known as monsoon season, characterised by short, sharp downpours. The trails are very wet and trekking during these months is not advised.

Read our detailed article on the  best time to trek to Everest Base Camp .

How difficult is the Everest Base Camp Trek?

Contrary to popular belief, Everest Base Camp trek is not very difficult. It requires no prior trekking experience or mountaineering skills of any sort. We have seen people from all walks of life, shapes and sizes completing the trek.

The round-trip length of the trek is 130km, which is spread over just short of two weeks of trekking. Expect to cover around 15km over 5/6 hours of trekking each day – a very achievable number. The hardest part of the trek is the altitude and the effect that it can have on your body.

All good tour operators will factor in acclimatisation days into their itinerary and will aim for a gradual pace of ascent that will ensure your body slowly gets used to the altitude.

We recommend undertaking a gym training programme and practice hikes 6-8 weeks prior to embarking on the trek. Read up more on the  difficulty of the EBC trek  and  how to train for the EBC trek .

Do I need a visa or permit for the EBC Trek?

Yes. If you are a national of a country other than India, you will need to purchase a visa. The 15-day multi entry visa starts at $25 and the 30-day visa goes for $40. The usual guided trek lasts around 15 days, but there is always the possibility of travel delay so we recommending opting for the 30-day visa for a slightly higher price.

You will need a Trekkers Information Management System card (TIMS) as well as a Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit. Tour operators will include both in their price and will obtain them for you beforehand. If you plan to trek independently, however, you will need $20 for the TIMS card and roughly $40 for the Sagarmatha entry permit.

Make sure you bring at least four passport sized photos in case they are needed for permits.

Will I get altitude sickness on the trek to Mt Everest base camp?

Most people who follow the standard route itinerary, take a gradual ascent with acclimatisation days built in and monitor their symptoms will not suffer from any sort of altitude sickness.

That being said, altitude sickness is not correlated to age or fitness and can affect some people worse than others.

Because it is a potential risk, you must read up about  acclimatisation and altitude sickness  so that you understand the symptoms and how to prevent them.

What should I pack for the Mt Everest trek?

Condensing a packing list into one short answer is impossible, so we have compiled a very  detailed and comprehensive EBC Packing List guide  to help you plan and pack for the trek.

It is possible to buy most gear in Kathmandu, but we recommend bringing all the important stuff with you from home. Read our guide for recommendations on what to bring, which brands are trusted as well as items you won’t need during the trek.

What insurance do I need for EBC?

You will need to take out insurance that will cover you for hiking up to altitudes of 6,000m.

Typical travel insurance will not cover this so we have compiled an article that will help you find the right insurance policy that adequately covers delays, accidents and altitude related illness.

World Nomads provide insurance for treks to Everest Base Camp.

Read our detailed guide on  travel insurance for the Everest Base Camp Trek .

EBC Trek Route Variations

There are a number of route variations for the trek to Everest Base Camp. Below we briefly discuss the three most popular options.

Gokyo Lakes Trek

One of the more popular variations of the Everest Base Camp Trek, the Gokyo Lakes Trek , also starts at Lukla and follows the classic base camp trek to Namche Bazaar where it forks north-west.

The trek proceeds through the towns of Dole and Machermo before reaching the stunning Gokyo Lakes. From there you can ascend to the peak of Gokyo Ri in the north, before crossing the Ngozumba glacier and Cho La Pass and re-joining the classic trek at Lobuche.

The detour adds 2/3 days onto the trek but provides the wonderful opportunity to summit a peak while also avoiding some of the busier parts of the trek.

Jiri To Everest Base Camp

This variation of the classic trek offers an alternative to flying into Lukla from Kathmandu to start the trek. The  Jiri variation  starts with an 8-hour bus ride from Kathmandu to Jiri, where the trek begins.

The variation adds an extra 5/6 days onto the trip as you trek through the Solukhumbu region and make your way past Lukla, where the trek then follows the same route as the classic Everest Base Camp Trek.

It involves a scenic, yet long, bus ride as well as a lot more exposure to the Tibetan and Sherpa cultures. Expect to trek through more forests and streams as you start at the relatively low altitude of 1,800m and work your way up to Lukla and beyond.

Three Passes Trek

The  Three Passes Trek  is a tougher variation than the classic Everest Base Camp Trek because it involves crossing three very high passes as well as summiting some walking peaks which are not included on the classic trek.

The variation starts by following the classic trek from Lukla to Namche Bazaar before veering west towards Thame and the remote Nangpa Valley. The first of the three passes encountered is the Renjo La, where you will be afforded magnificent views of Everest before descending to the idyllic Gokyo lakes.

The next pass, Cho La, involves walking up a fairly steep and icy trail before reaching a small glacier at the top. From here, you descend and re-join the main base camp trek where you summit Kala Patthar – the iconic viewpoint. You continue onto base camp itself before descending to Lobuche.

You then head east over the third pass of Kongma La and continue onwards to summit the third peak of Chukking Ri. Once again you will have amazing views of the surrounding peaks that you would not get to see on the classic trek. The circuit is completed by returning to Lukla through the main Everest trail.

Island Peak Climb via EBC

Island Peak  is not so much a variation as it is an expedition in it’s own right. Summiting Island Peak is significantly harder than the trekking any of the routes mentioned above, but it does usually involve a visit to Everest Base Camp to acclimatise before the summit attempt. The climb to the peak is not considered technical although it still requires basic knowledge of jumaring, abseiling,  using crampons and ice axes. Standing at just under 6,200m, altitude is a real factor.

Most climbers of Island Peak use the traditional base camp trek as a means of acclimatising before heading to the Island Peak Base Camp via Dingboche on the main trail, or by traversing the Chongma La pass. Summiting from the base camp typically takes two days and the whole variation will add around 4 days onto the classic EBC trek.

Recent EBC Blog Posts

Coronavirus pandemic: can i still hike to everest base camp (covid 19 update), mount everest deaths rise due to overcrowding, everest base camp trek packing list – exactly what you need to bring, dj paul oakenfold plays gig at everest base camp, food on the everest base camp trek, teahouses on the everest base camp trek.

References:  EBC Trek Guide is maintained by a group of passionate Nepal guides and independent trekkers, many of whom live in Kathmandu and are experts on the trekking trails to Everest and throughout the region. Much of the site is based off personal experiences which are then cross-referenced with secondary sources like trail and travel guides (i.e. Trailblazer,  Lonely Planet ), and third party websites. If you find any inaccuracies on the site please contact us.

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Everest Base Camp Height: Mount Everest Base Camp Trek Altitude Variation

• Trip Overview

Everest Base Camp (EBC) has two primary locations, one on the south side of Nepal and one on the north side of Tibet. The height of Everest Base Camp on the Nepal side is 5,364 meters (17,598 feet) above sea level. Likewise, the Everest Base Camp in Tibet side is 5,150 meters (16,900 feet) above sea level.

The South Base Camp in Nepal is the more commonly used starting point for climbers attempting to summit Mount Everest via the Southeast Ridge route. Thus, here is going to explain about South Everest Base Camp which is located in Nepal.

The majestic Everest Base Camp is a place where the air is thin, the views are breathtaking, and the spirit of adventure is as vast as the Himalayan sky itself. It’s like standing on the top of a skyscraper, but instead of steel and glass around you, it’s the grandeur of the world’s highest peaks that takes your breath away.

Imagine, if you will, the base camp as a bustling hub of human endeavor and camaraderie. It’s not just a spot on the map; it’s a gateway to the heavens, where climbers from every corner of the globe gather with hope in their eyes and determination in their hearts to conquer the mighty Everest. Here, the snow-capped peaks whisper ancient secrets, and the fluttering prayer flags carry the prayers of those who dare to dream big.

At this lofty height, you’re closer to the stars than you’ve ever been, with the summit of Everest soaring another 8,848 meters (29,029 feet) above you. The camp is a colorful mosaic of tents, with vibrant hues of blue, red, and yellow standing out starkly against the monochromatic backdrop of the frozen landscape. Each tent is a sanctuary, a temporary home for climbers who come to acclimatize before attempting the ultimate ascent.

The air is crisp and cool, with a bite that reminds you of the harsh beauty of the high-altitude environment. The sound of crunching ice underfoot is a constant companion, and the distant rumble of avalanches serves as a humbling reminder of the power of nature that reigns supreme in this realm. Yet, amidst the challenges, there’s an undeniable allure that captivates the soul.

The journey to Everest Base Camp is a trek through the heart of the Nepalese countryside, where every step brings you closer to the towering giant. You’ll pass through quaint Sherpa settlements, cross rickety suspension bridges, and hike through rhododendron forests that bloom with a fiery passion that matches the determination of those who tread these paths.

But it’s not just the altitude that makes this place special; it’s the collective aura of human aspiration that lingers in the air. The camp is a melting pot of languages, cultures, and dreams, where tales of courage and endurance are shared over steaming cups of tea in the chilly evening light. It’s a place where the human spirit soars as high as the eagles that glide effortlessly in the skies above.

So, when you think of Everest Base Camp at 5,364 meters, don’t just see it as a number. Picture it as a symbol of what we can achieve when we push ourselves to the limits when we refuse to let the “impossible” define us, and when we stand in awe of the wonders of our planet. It’s a place that leaves an indelible mark on the soul, a testament to the resilience and ambition that resides within each of us.

Everest Base Camp Trek Altitude Variation

The Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek involves significant altitude variation as trekkers make their way from Lukla to the base of Mount Everest. Here’s a detailed outline of the altitude changes at key points along the trek:

Lukla: 2,860 meters (9,383 feet) Starting point after the flight from Kathmandu.

Phakding: 2,610 meters (8,563 feet) First stop after Lukla, with a slight descent.

Namche Bazaar: 3,440 meters (11,286 feet) Significant ascent from Phakding serves as a major acclimatization stop.

Tengboche: 3,860 meters (12,664 feet) Trek involves both ascents and descents before reaching this altitude.

Dingboche: 4,410 meters (14,468 feet) Another key acclimatization stops with a gradual ascent.

Lobuche: 4,940 meters (16,207 feet) Higher altitude with increasing difficulty in breathing.

Gorak Shep: 5,164 meters (16,942 feet) The last settlement before reaching Everest Base Camp, has a significant altitude gain.

Everest Base Camp: 5,364 meters (17,598 feet)

Final destination with notable altitude. The trek typically involves gradual ascents, with some descents and flat sections, allowing for acclimatization. Proper acclimatization is crucial to avoid altitude sickness, and itineraries often include rest days at higher elevations like Namche Bazaar and Dingboche. The altitude variation can cause physical stress, so trekkers need to pace themselves and stay hydrated.

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How To Do The Everest Base Camp Trek In Nepal

The Mount Everest Base Camp Trek in Nepal is one of the world’s best bucket list hikes. In less than 2 weeks, you can trek to the foot of Mt Everest and other snowy peaks in the Himalayan mountains.

The good news is that it’s not a super difficult hike, and you don’t need a big budget to do it. The EBC trek is worth it for the fun and accomplishment alone, but you also get views of the Himalayas that are out of this world.

This travel guide will explain how you can do the Mt Everest Base Camp hike independently (with or without a tour guide), along with a recommended packing list and everything else you need to know before you go!

Best Everest Base Camp Tours

First of all, if you’d rather skip the hassle of planning your own EBC Trek, Klook has Everest Base Camp Tours starting as low as $900 USD for a full 12-day trek.

You may be able to find something cheaper than this once you land in Kathmandu, but booking online with a vetted tour company has some big advantages, and the reviews on their website are very positive.

We’ve used Klook for lots of tours and activities around the world, and they’re great! Highly recommended.

Book Now: Everest Base Camp Tours

When To Do The EBC Trek

The Mt Everest region has 4 different trekking seasons:

• March – May: High season. Best weather, with stable temperatures and bright sunny days, but the trails can get crowded. During these months you may share the EBC trail with pro climbers on the way to go summit Everest.
• June – August: Monsoon season. There’s a lot more rain during these months, and the trails are mostly empty.
• September – October: Clear days and busy trails. This is one of the most popular trekking seasons.
• November – February: Coldest season, but the weather is stable and dry. The trails are mostly clear.

I trekked in early February, and even though it was nice having the trail mostly to myself, the cold in the evenings and mornings was straight up misery.

My home state of Missouri can get very cold in the winter, but the cold has just never been my thing. If I could go back and change it, I would definitely do my Everest Base Camp hike later in the season.

Everest Base Camp Weather

Temperatures on the Mt Everest Base Camp Trek can range from 5 °C (40 °F) to 20 °C (70 °F) depending on month, and as low as -30 °C (-22 °F) at night during the winter months.

If you trek during the warmer months (Mar-May and Sep-Oct), the cold is not a big problem and shouldn’t be hard to cope with. Winter is a different story. Your snot will freeze in your nose at Gorak Shep.

Sunshine is key for winter trekking in Nepal, and thankfully you should have lots of sun in most months outside of the monsoon season. On my February hike, I often found myself shedding all my layers while trekking because I was heating up in the sun.

If you do your Everest Base Camp hike during the winter, the biggest issue is staying warm in the evenings and at night. For this, you’ll definitely want a top quality down jacket and sleeping bag.

All About Everest Base Camp Trekking

My everest base camp itinerary.

• Day 1: Kathmandu to Lukla to Benkar .
• Day 2: Benkar to Namche Bazaar .
• Day 3: Namche Acclimatization Day .
• Day 4: Namche to Deboche .
• Day 5: Deboche to Pangboche .
• Day 6: Pangboche to Dingboche .
• Day 7: Dingboche Acclimatization Day .
• Day 8: Dingboche to Thukla .
• Day 9: Thukla to Gorak Shep .
• Day 10: Everest Base Camp .
• Day 11: Kala Patthar to Gorak Shep to Pheriche .
• Day 12: Pheriche to Namche .
• Day 13: Namche to Lukla .

If you ever need motivation to keep going on the Everest Base Camp hike, just look at how much the porters are carrying!

Mount Pumori as seen from the Kala Patthar viewpoint, just a short distance from Mt Everest Base Camp.

Ama Dablam, one of my favorite mountains on the Mt Everest Base Camp Trek.

EBC Trek Packing List / Gear

This isn’t a complete list of everything to bring on a Mt Everest Base Camp Trek, and you may have to change things up a little depending on what month you go, but these are just some of the basics.

You can find most of this gear in Kathmandu, but in my opinion you’ll get higher quality and a wider selection if you order online.

• Beanie: I only wore this at night, but it definitely helped keep my ears warm.
• Down Jacket: Bring the biggest, warmest DJ possible. This is your most important piece of gear. You can use it as an extra cover at night.
• Fleece Sweater: This is the only jacket you’ll need to wear while trekking most days, especially if it’s sunny.
• Shirts: Something comfy with quick dry material.
• Trekking Pants: Something lightweight and breathable.
• Thermal Underwear: May not be needed if you trek in the warmer months.
• Gloves: I only wore these at night, but they definitely helped keep my hands warm.
• Socks: Merino wool is best for staying warm and stopping moisture.
• Headlight: Smart to have at least a small one, just in case.
• Tumbler: 1 liter water bottle to refill daily on the trek.
• Sunblock: It’s easy to sunburn at high altitudes. A small bottle is plenty.
• Sunglasses: Good for snow. May not be necessary unless you plan to hike a mountain pass like Cho La.
• Hat: I wore old faithful throughout the hike.
• Watch: An altimeter watch would be fun to play with here.
• Camera: Duh. You can’t do the Mt Everest Base Camp Trek without taking lots of pictures.
• Power Bank: Bring a big power bank and you might only need to recharge it once on the whole trek.

Everest Base Camp Trek Cost

For a 13 day trek, I paid about $21 USD per day for food, drinks, and room. Porter/guide was an extra $25 per day, although it’s not a requirement. Flights to Lukla were $330 return, but again not a requirement if you hike in.

You can read the sections below for more info on the daily trekking costs and what you get for your money. It’s not a very expensive trek, all things considered!

Keep in mind, these numbers are from 2020. They’ll go up a little over time. Exchange rates may also vary, so check the latest rates .

The flight to Lukla from Kathmandu is $165 USD each way. You can shop for flights to Lukla at Skyscanner.

If your budget is tight or you have extra time, you can skip this flight by hiking from Jiri to Lukla rather than flying. It only adds a couple days to the itinerary.

Guide / Porter / Solo

You can do the EBC trek with a guide, porter, OR independently (solo).

A guide will show you the way to Mt Everest Base Camp and help with lodging, navigation, advice, taking pictures for you, etc. A porter-guide will do these same things and also carry a 20 kg (45 lb) pack for you.

A porter or guide is NOT a requirement to do this hike, especially if you go in the warmer months when you may not need as much gear. In 2023, they were supposedly introducing a guide requirement for EBC, but so far that has not been enforced at all, thankfully.

With that said, there are some good advantages to hiring a guide, and it’s pretty cheap by Western standards. A porter is only $15 or $20 USD per day, and a porter-guide is $25 per day. A popular arrangement is to hire one porter for two hikers, splitting the cost and still making things easier for both of you.

In the end, this all depends on your budget and hiking preferences.

Hiking Fees

If you’re hiking EBC independently, you’ll need to be aware of two fees you have to pay near the start of the trek.

There’s a local government tax that they’ve now started collecting in Lukla. This one is currently 2,000 Rupees ($17 USD).

There’s also an Everest park fee/ticket you have to pay at the Sagarmatha National Park entrance just beyond the small village of Monjo, Nepal. This one is currently 3,500 Rupees ($30 USD).

No TIMS card is needed anymore for independent hikers. That fee has been retired for the Mount Everest Base Camp Trek.

Accommodation & Amenities

Throughout the Everest Base Camp hike, you’ll stay and sleep at small guesthouses along the way, called teahouses.

This is where you get your meals and drinks for the trek, along with the occasional amenities like showers, charging, or WiFi. The teahouses start out decent, but quickly get more shabby as you go further up the trail.

You have to pay for everything you use, of course, and the prices get quite high as you go, because everything has to be hauled up on the backs of the poor porters.

Guesthouses

The teahouses on the EBC trek are cold and dingy, with drop toilets and cracks in the walls. Don’t expect luxury.

Most rooms are free as long as you buy your meals there (the meals are how they make their money). If you stay at a lodge and don’t eat there, you’ll be expected to pay for the room.

In some cases, I was charged 500 Rupees for a room on top of my meal costs. I’m not sure why some teahouses do this and others don’t, but I never paid more than 500 Rupees for a room, and most were free with the meals.

Food & Drink

I’m happy to report that the food and drinks on the Everest Base Camp hike are top notch, especially after you’ve worked up an appetite trekking.

You have western food choices, or the standard local staples like veggie fried rice, steamed momos (dumplings), and mushroom soup. Everything was hot and fresh. Meal prices for these ranged from 250 to 750 Rupees depending on altitude. Not too bad.

For drinks I tried hot chocolate, lemon/apple/mint tea, and occasionally bottled water for my tumbler. These ranged from 100 to 400 Rupees. If you want to avoid plastic bottles, there’s usually boiled water available and this is safe to drink too.

Getting enough water on the trek is never a problem. Just fill up a 1 liter tumbler in the morning, and this will last you until evening, especially since you’re likely to pass more tea houses along the trail as you’re hiking throughout the day.

Showers are only available at a few lodges, depending on the season and how high up you are, and they cost 600 to 1200 Rupees. In the winter, water higher up will be frozen most of the time.

I never had a shower on my February EBC trek, and that seems to be the norm (although I got one or two opportunities in Namche). Yes, it’s gross. I could smell myself by trek’s end, and it wasn’t pretty.

But aside from the fact that I hate to fork out money for something as basic as a shower, I also never really got close to other people for very long on the trek, so I didn’t feel too guilty about it.

Most days were cold enough that the thought of stripping down for a shower was not really appealing, either. Your best bet is baby wipes and deodorant.

WiFi / Cell Service

WiFi costs anywhere from $5 to $10 USD per day if you buy it from the teahouses.

Alternatively, you can buy a 10 GB/30 Day Everest Link WiFi card in Namche Bazaar and use this for the entire EBC trek. During my Mount Everest Base Camp Trek the WiFi was down across the whole region, so unfortunately I wasn’t able to use either of these options.

I bought an Ncell local SIM card in the Kathmandu airport and had 3G service for half the days of the Everest Base Camp hike. Coverage is still improving in the area, so if you need to stay connected I’d definitely bring a local SIM.

Electricity

All of the teahouses on the way to Mt Everest Base Camp sell outlet charging for electronics, and the prices range from $2 to $10 USD for a full charge, depending on how far up the trail you are.

The key is to bring a big power bank and then use this to charge all of your other electronics (phone, camera, etc). I did this and only paid once to recharge my power bank on the whole trek.

How Much Cash To Bring

Everything you buy during the Everest Base Camp hike (meals, WiFi, charging, etc) will have to be paid for with cash. Credit cards won’t work. There are no ATMs outside of Lukla and Namche Bazaar (Days 1-4), and even the ATMs there are not reliable.

What this means is that you’ll have to withdraw enough cash (Nepalese Rupees) at an ATM in Kathmandu to cover your entire trek. The ATM fees will bite you, and I hate to carry large amounts of cash, but it’s not really avoidable here.

All up, I spent about $20 USD (2,400 Rupees) per day on the Mount Everest Base Camp Trek, and never spent more than $25 USD in a single day. With that said, I didn’t splurge on WiFi, showers, charging, or alcohol. The only things I bought were the bare necessities: room, food, and drinks.

If you hire a porter/guide, you don’t need to factor that into your daily cash carry. That’s paid before the trek starts. But do reserve a little cash for a decent tip.

Mount Everest Base Camp Trek Difficulty

I’m not going to lie, this is a difficult trek. And if you do it in the winter like I did, it’s even harder. With that said, if you are in decent shape, determined, and obey the guidelines for altitude sickness prevention (more on that below), then you’ll have no problem reaching base camp.

There is a lot of elevation gain and loss on this hike. At times near Lukla, the constant ups and downs will make you feel like you’re hiking a roller coaster, but the trail is never too steep or dangerous. After Namche, it’s mostly a slow uphill plod.

This trek has been completed by old seasoned hikers in their 70s, and young kids in their pre-teens. It’s also been flunked by healthy 20-30 somethings who try to push through it quickly without enough acclimatization to altitude.

Patience and discipline are key for trekking to Everest Base Camp. Slow and steady wins the race here.

Trekking Distance

The one way trekking distance from Lukla to Mt Everest Base Camp is about 65 kilometers (40 miles).

That means the total roundtrip distance of an EBC Trek is about 130 kilometers, even if you don’t do any of the detours.

Don’t let that scare you off. It’s a lot of hiking, but every step is worth it.

Altitude Sickness

By far your biggest danger on the Mount Everest Base Camp Trek is altitude sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).

No one is immune to this, and it doesn’t matter how fit you are. If you gain altitude too fast, you can get sick and in some cases even die. Plenty of people have died from AMS on the EBC Trek.

The problem is that overzealous hikers push the envelope on this hike all the time, and a lot of them end up needing a very expensive helicopter evacuation to lower ground.

The best way to avoid altitude sickness is to go slow . At altitudes above 3,000 meters (10,000 feet), don’t increase your sleeping elevation by more than 300-500 meters (1,000-1,500 feet) per night.

Every 1,000 meters (3,000 feet) you should also spend a second night at the same elevation. If you get a bad headache, dizziness, or nausea, descend to a lower altitude until you feel better. As long as you follow these general guidelines, you shouldn’t have any issues.

You can take Diamox (acetazolamide) on the trek for extra AMS prevention. This medication can be found in Kathmandu or Namche. I bought mine in Namche and it seemed to help my headache and slight foggy feeling. I didn’t have any side effects aside from the usual tingling toes/fingers.

Everest Base Camp Altitude

The Mount Everest Base Camp altitude is 5,364 meters (17,598 feet). At this elevation, there is 50% of the oxygen at sea level.

However, most treks also go to Kala Patthar, a viewpoint even higher than base camp where you can get the best views of Mount Everest.

The elevation at Kala Patthar is 5,644 meters (18,519 feet). From there, you’ll be rewarded with an incredible panorama of Mount Everest and other icy peaks like Pumori, Lhotse, and Nuptse.

Happy travels!

If you’d rather skip the hassle of planning your own EBC Trek, Klook has Everest Base Camp Tours starting as low as $900 USD for a full 12-day trek.

You may be able to find something cheaper than this once you land in Kathmandu, but booking online with a vetted tour company has some big advantages, and the reviews on their website are very positive for this Mt Everest Base Camp tour.

More Nepal Travel Tips

Hopefully you were helped by this guide for the Everest Base Camp Trek. Let me know in the comments below if I can help answer any questions.

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Thanks for the straight forward information. Beautiful photos

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Everest Base Camp Trek

• 1.1 Hiring guides/porters
• 3.1 Mount Everest
• 5 Sleep and buy
• 6 Stay safe
• 7 Stay healthy

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Everest Base Camp Trek is a famous challenging trek in Khumbu , Nepal .

For information on preparing for this trek, including when to go, what to bring, what permits are required, and safety precautions including altitude sickness, and water contamination, see Trekking in Nepal .

Famous for its spectacular mountain peaks and the loyalty and friendliness of its inhabitants (the Sherpas), the Everest region (Khumbu) is one of the most popular destinations for tourists in Nepal. While many of the routes through the mountains are arduous, there are ample places to rest and enjoy a meal along the way. Furthermore, don't worry about getting lost. Just ask a local the way to the next village on your route, and they will direct you. Most Sherpas under the age of 50 can at least understand basic English, and many speak it fluently.

While trekking is possible in this area the whole year round, the best times to visit are from the beginning of March to mid May and from the beginning of September to mid November. The winters are very cold and snow may make it difficult to travel higher than Tengboche , and also lodges may be closed above this altitude. Summers, on the other hand, are wet, and the spectacular peaks are often lost in the clouds. April and early May is a good time to see the hedgerows and trees bursting into bloom, with rhododendrons, in particular, adding a spectacular splash of colour to the landscape. However, dust from the plains of India during the spring routinely provide less than ideal conditions for clear mountain views. The views are much better after the summer monsoons have cleared the atmosphere of dust, but the days are shorter and cooler.

Hiring guides/porters

Do you need a guide and porter for the journey? If you are strong, then a porter is not required, although hiring one does provide welcome income for poor families and gives you more flexibility. If you do hire a porter, keep your valuables with you. The vast majority of porters are honest, but it only takes one who is not to ruin a holiday. Expect to pay around Rs. 2,500-4,500 a day (more if your load is very heavy) for a porter's services, and as far as Namche Bazaar you are not expected to pay for their accommodation and meals. However, due to the high price of food and lack of provisions for porters above Namche, meals should be provided. (Namche has a cheap and clean lodge specially for porters). Anyway, ensure that your terms are clear at the time of hiring to avoid trouble later.

Guides are definitely not necessary if you are travelling no higher that Tengboche or Pangboche . Above that, you might consider hiring one. Not only can they guide you on the right path and explain local sights, but they can also be invaluable should you fall ill. Guides speak English (and often other languages: specify your choice when hiring) and need an official licence to operate. They command a much higher rate than porters (negotiate), and carrying your bags is not part of their service. Like porters, they will find their own accommodation and meals unless you invite them.

In general, guides are local Sherpas or Tamangs, while porters are Rai or belong to ethnic groups from other areas.

Guides and porters can be hired for a fee through trekking operators in Kathmandu or you can inquire at lodges in Lukla or Namche. At Lukla airport, there are always hopeful porters milling around the exit, but it is better to use a lodge owner as an intermediary. They can help you negotiate a good deal and translate your specific needs. Eco Paradise in Lukla or Namche Hotel in Namche are convenient and good places to do this.

Fly to Lukla Airport ( LUA   IATA ) from Kathmandu . There are several airlines operating dozens of flights every day. Tara Air is generally considered the most reliable. Sita Air also operates two flights every morning from Kathmandu to Lukla at 07:00 and 08:20. The flight takes around 25 minutes. During the summer rainy season, there may be substantial delays, even a wait of a week is not unheard of. For the return journey, the flights leave Lukla at 07:40 and 09:00. Helicopter charter service is also available on demand and is mostly used for rescue operations. Be aware that airline safety regulations in Nepal are poor, and as a result the country has more than its fair share of plane crashes.

Alternatives are to fly to Phaplu airport, 2–3 trekking days south of Lukla , or to walk in from Jiri , which is 5–7 trekking days west of Lukla. These alternatives take more time and therefore are less popular, but are very peaceful and pleasant, and safer than flying into Lukla.

Just after the village of Monju , there is check point for entering the Sagarmatha National Park . You will need to show your passport and pay a Rs. 3,000 entry fee.

Khumbu is an area for trekking. The trek can be as short as a two day walk from Lukla to Namche Bazaar or an eight to ten day trip to Everest Base Camp. Irrespective of the length of the journey, as there are no roads in the area, it will definitely involve putting on hiking boots and walking the mountain paths. Below is an itinerary from Lukla Airport to Everest Base Camp and all points in between.

Day two – 27.772222 86.722778 2 Monju to Namche : After passing through the Sagarmatha Park entrance (3,390 Rs for foreigners), the trail passes through the village of Jorsale and then along the river. You will cross two bridges before beginning the steep ascent to Namche , which can take up to three hours to complete. Be aware that there are no tea houses or lodges on this path, so ensure that you have ample water to get you to the top. In addition, you are now heading into a high altitude area, so take it easy. Even the fittest people are prone to altitude sickness . Monju to Namche 3 miles and 3 to 4 hours, almost all uphill.

Days three and four – 27.804444 86.71 3 Namche Bazaar (3,440   m): It is recommended to take an altitude acclimatisation rest day in Namche . Although no more than a village, the Sherpa capital has two museums, several internet cafes, and, at last count, two pizza parlours and three cafes (locally known as bakeries), so there is much to keep you occupied during your stay here. Namche also has two official money changers, so it is a good place to stock up on local currency for the days ahead. (Lodges and restaurants in Khumbu only accept Nepali rupees.) There is also a reasonable selection of English books, though the prices are higher than in Kathmandu .

During your acclimatisation rest day , you might like to visit neighbouring villages. 27.82386 86.71745 1 Khumjung (3790m) is over the hill directly behind Namche , and takes 1½-2 hours to reach. There are several sights in the village (See listings below) and a few lodges and cafes. Khunde is a short walk from Khumjung . Getting there: Take the Tengboche trail, then at the top of the hill above Namche , near the huge mani stone and just past the bank, head straight up the mountain; the wider path to the right goes to Tengboche . After a steep climb, you will arrive at an airstrip. Cross this and rejoin the path at the other side. After a short distance you'll pass a stupa. From there, take the paved path down the hill. Soon you will see the playground and school buildings of Khumjung Hillary School. 27.83 86.65 2 Thame (3750m) is a more traditional village that is about a 2 1/2- to 3-hour walk from Namche . Getting there: Leave Namche on the path that passes the ochre coloured Namche Monastery (Namche Gompa). From here, it is a relatively flat walk that takes in some very pleasant scenery. The first hamlet on the route is 'Phurte,' identified by the forest nursery, and then 'Tesho.' The water that runs through 'Tesho' comes directly from 'Mount Khumbi Yui Lha', the most sacred mountain to the Sherpas, so there are several retreat huts built into the niches. Thame is the next village on the trail, and a good place to take lunch. Thame has a few lodges and is home to one of Khumbu's oldest monasteries. This trail is also the traditional route to Tibet, so don't be surprised to encounter caravans of yaks led by long-haired Tibetan merchants on your walk.

Day five – Namche to 27.836 86.763944 4 Tengboche (3,870   m/12,696   ft): After a short but steep climb out of Namche Bazaar, then walk on a fairly level trail to the villages of Kenjuma and Sanasa . Here there are extensive displays of souvenirs to tempt you and food and drinks. The Ama Dablam Lodge in Kanjuma has some good food and the sitting area out front offers uninhibited views of Ama Dablam. In addition, the lodge reputedly has the best selection of jewellery for sale in Khumbu, so if you don't plan to return this way, pick out a few light souvenirs; they will forever remind you of this sun-blessed place and the sparkling snow capped peak of Ama Dablam. After a short while, the trail descends to the level of the Dudh Koshi River, and you will pass a few hamlets and cross several bridges. Then at the hamlet of Phunki Thanga (marked by its water driven prayer wheels), the trail ascends steeply. There are no tea houses or lodges on this stretch, so take some refreshment in Phunki Thanga and stock up on water for the one and a half to two hour climb to Tengboche . Take it easy going up here. The air is thinner than you are aware! You want to avoid mountain sickness.

Day six : For those heading for Everest , the trail passes through the villages of Deboche (here, there is a small nunnery on the left – definitely worth a visit), 27.856389 86.789722 5 Pangboche ( 3,860   m (12,660   ft) ), 27.8919 86.8297 6 Dingboche and finally 27.893561 86.819876 7 Periche ( 4,240   m (13,910   ft) ). All these villages offer food and lodgings. Pangboche (especially Upper-Pangboche, where the local monastery is located) is, however, probably the most pleasant as it is surrounded by trees. So, if you decide to take the journey slowly, this is the best place to rest and relax. For those heading for Island Peak Trek and/or the Lhotse Glacier , your final destination will be Chukhung . As this is further than Periche , you will definitely need to stop the night in Pangboche or Dingboche .

Day seven : In Periche , you will need to take a day to acclimatise to the high altitude. Take short, slow walks around the village, marvel at the peaks and dig out the book you bought in Namche , but whatever you do, don't push it at this point. If you begin to feel unwell, inform your guide or lodge owner and return as quickly as possible to a lower altitude. The experts say hike high sleep low. So some Nepal experts recommend that if you are feeling well, to hike each day to a higher elevation than you will sleep.

Alternate return trip : From Lobuche, the trail via the pass 27.961725 86.751637 12 Cho La (5,370   m) to the wonderful 27.954088 86.694588 13 Gokyo valley with its glacier lakes and fine views offers some stunning scenery and is not as crowded as that to Everest .

Mount Everest

Mount Everest is the highest mountain in the world. Its height is 8,848   m (29,028   ft). Its alternate names are Qomolangma, Sagarmatha, and Chomolungma. Mount Everest lies on the border of Nepal and China, with about half of the mountain lying on each side of the border. Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay first climbed it in 1953, with Hillary taking the famous photograph of Tenzing Norgay on the summit.

There are several bodies still lying on the upper portions of the mountain above the South Col on the Nepal side and the North East ridge on the Tibetan side. The Governments of Nepal and China requires all prospective climbers to purchase a permit. The fees depend on the route and season of the climb. A standard Nepali permit is $USD 50,000 for 7 climbers. There are also additional bonds to ensure refuse is removed from the mountain.

There are two main routes, Southeast and Northeast, for climbing Mt. Everest. Southeast is the most frequently-used route because it is generally considered safer and has easier access.

The ascent via the southeast ridge begins with a trek to Base Camp at 5,380   m (17,600   ft) on the south side of Everest in Nepal. Expedition members usually fly into Lukla (2,860   m) from Kathmandu and pass through Namche Bazaar. Climbers then hike to Base Camp, which usually takes six to eight days, allowing for proper altitude acclimatisation in order to prevent altitude sickness. Climbing equipment and supplies are carried by yaks, dzopkyos (yak hybrids) and human porters to Base Camp on the Khumbu Glacier.

When Hillary and Tenzing climbed Everest in 1953, they started from Kathmandu Valley, as there were no roads further east at that time.

Everest base Camp

At Everest Base Camp, climbers will often spend 4 - 8 weeks, acclimatising to the altitude. During that time, the "Icefall Doctors" will set up ropes and ladders in the notoriously unstable Khumbu Icefall. Seracs, crevasses and shifting blocks of ice make the icefall one of the most dangerous sections of the route. Many climbers and Sherpas have been killed in this section. To reduce the risk, climbers will usually begin their ascent well before sunrise when the freezing temperatures glue ice blocks in place. Above the icefall is Camp I at 6,065   m (19,900   ft) Camp 1 is mostly a temporary camp with most climbers just spending one night at this camp.

Base Camp II, Advanced Base Camp (ABC) is established at 6,400   m (21,300   ft). The Western Cwm is a relatively flat, gently rising glacial valley, marked by huge lateral crevasses in the centre which prevent direct access to the upper reaches of the Cwm. Climbers are forced to cross on the far right near the base of Nuptse to a small passageway known as the "Nuptse corner". The Western Cwm as the topography of the area generally cuts off wind from the climbing route. The high altitude and a clear, windless day can make the Western Cwm unbearably hot for climbers.

From ABC, climbers ascend the Lhotse face on set ropes up to Camp III, situated on small ledges at approximately 7,200 m to 7,400 m. From there, it is another 500 metres to Camp IV on the South Col at 7,920   m (26,000   ft). From Camp III to Camp IV, mountaineers are faced with two additional obstacles: The “Geneva Spur” and The “Yellow Band”. The Geneva Spur is an anvil shaped rib of black rock named by a 1952 Swiss expedition. Fixed ropes help climbers in scrambling over this snow covered rock band. The Yellow Band is a section of sedimentary sandstone. The route from the base of the Lhotse face to the Summit is almost always completely fixed with static line.

On the South Col, climbers are very close to 8,000   m and can only spend limited time at those altitudes even with supplemental oxygen. Climbers typically only have a maximum of two or three days they can tolerate at this altitude for making peak bids. Clear weather and low winds are important factors when deciding on a summit attempt. If weather does not cooperate within these short few days, climbers are forced to move down, many all the way back to Base Camp.

From Camp IV, mountaineers will start their summit push from 20:00 to 02:00 with the hope of reaching the summit (still another 1,000   m above) within 10 to 12 hours. Climbers will first reach "The Balcony" at 8,400   m (27,700   ft), a small platform where they can rest and gaze at peaks to the south and east in the early dawn light. Continuing up the ridge, climbers are then faced with a series of impressive rock steps which usually forces them to the east into waist deep snow. At 8,750   m (28,700   ft), a small table-sized area of ice and snow marks the South Summit (Peak).

From the South Peak, climbers ascend the knife-edge southeast ridge, known as the "Cornice traverse" where snow covers irregular rock. This is the most exposed part of the climb, as a misstep to the left would send one 2,400   m (8,000   ft) down the southwest face, while to the immediate right is the 3,050   m (10,000   ft) Kangshung face. At the end of this traverse is an imposing 12 m (40 ft) rock wall called the "Hillary Step" at 8,760   m (28,750   ft).

Tenzing and Hillary were the first mountaineers to rise to this step and they did it with early ice climbing equipment and without fixed ropes. Now, climbers will ascend this step using fixed ropes previously set up by Sherpas. Once above the step, it is a comparatively easy climb to the top on fairly angled snow slopes although the exposure on the ridge is extreme especially while traversing very large cornices of snow. After the Hillary Step climbers also must traverse a very loose and rocky section that has a very large entanglement of fixed ropes that can be troublesome in bad weather. Climbers will typically spend less than a half-hour on "top of the world" as they realise the need to descend to Camp IV before darkness sets in, afternoon weather becomes a serious problem, or supplemental oxygen tanks run out.

Major currencies (AUD, EUR, GBP & USD) are accepted to obtain a visa. There are ATMs in both Kathmandu and Pokhara and credit cards are accepted in limited shops and many restaurants in Kathmandu and Pokhra. Outside the cities, credit and debit cards are difficult to use owing to the lack of card-reading machines. It is recommended to convert currency to Nepali rupees (Rs.) in Kathmandu or before, as it is accepted everywhere in Nepal.

Sleep and buy

Lodges and restaurants in Khumbu only accept Nepalese rupees. Budget Rs. 3500-4500 per person per day for food and accommodation: prices rise with the altitude, and you may spend more in Namche because there is more on offer.

Prices are as follows:

• Lodges, basic room Rs. 700-1200
• Water Rs. 250-450
• Coke Rs. 150-400
• Meals Rs. 700-1500
• Hot Shower Rs. 400-800
• Candy Rs. 120-280
• Battery Charging Rs. 100-300 per hour.

Khumbu is a very safe region and violent crime is almost unheard of. However, due to the number of people flowing through the area on treks, it is advisable to always keep your valuables in sight.

Altitude sickness affects even young and healthy people and is a genuine problem in Khumbu. If you feel dizzy, suffer palpitations or severe headaches, return immediately to lower altitude . Do not take altitude sickness lightly. It can and does kill!

Yaks may be photogenic, but they are aggressive and unpredictable. Always stand on the upper slope (i.e., above the path, away from the drop-off) to let yaks pass. Every Sherpa has a tale about Westerners who have stood on the lower side of a trail to let a herd of yaks pass and been killed after being pushed off.

Oxygen bottle thefts have been reported on the mountain; bottles are stolen for use or for resale at the base camp.

There is an emergency rescue centre based in Namgyal’s lodge in the village of Machhermo in the Gokyo Valley manned by two volunteer doctors. Note: This is purely an emergency rescue centre, and the doctors will not treat common ailments.

You should also be careful about the scam involving helicopter evacuation for people suffering from altitude sickness. The opportunist trekking operators will either inflate the cost of heli evacuation by charging single-trip prices for a full helicopter or persuade the trekkers to take pre-arranged helicopter by misinforming that they've already guaranteed payments with insurers.

Stay healthy

Clinics are a sparse resource in Khumbu. However, should you require medical attention there are two possibilities:

Contemporary medicine - Kunde Clinic, in Kunde Village (above Namche) has Western trained doctors and is a surprisingly well equipped facility; they even have a decompression chamber for those suffering with severe altitude sickness. On your return journey, you might like to donate your unused medicines, although ensure that they are clearly labelled in English as even the most valuable medicine is useless if there are no instructions on its use.

The Himalayan Rescue Association operates a clinic staffed by western physicians in Pheriche. They give a daily lecture on taking care of your health in the Khumbu region, and, for Rs. 100, check your blood oxygen content and pulse rate. This is a good place to stop at even if you are not experiencing any health problems. Sales of t-shirts, scarfs and hats go towards operating the clinic.

Traditional Tibetan medicine - the Healing Centre [ dead link ] in Namche offers treatments using natural formulas. It is next to the Camp de Base hotel, but entered from the path in front of the library. The clinic provides free treatment for porters and others on low income. In order to continue this service, donations are greatly appreciated.

Along the trail are small medical stations. These stations generally have very rudimentary facilities and can only realistically offer treatment for very minor ailments, such as cuts and bruises and (non-altitude sickness related) headaches etc.

Namche also has a dental clinic , on the right side slope of the village when looking up.

Don't drink the water no matter how pristine it appears. Use iodine tablets as a purifier or purchase boiled water. Exceptions: Namche and Phortse have clean water supplies that the locals drink directly from the tap. However, this may not be a good idea for outsiders lacking immunity to local bacteria, but it may be OK for brushing teeth.

There are no telephone lines or mailing addresses in the Everest region.

Namche has a post office , but there are mixed reports of letters reaching their destinations. Postage stamps are also available in local shops.

International phone calls can be made in Namche and many of the other villages in the region, however this is very expensive compared to Kathmandu . The cheapest place is the one-phone government telephone office, on the second floor of the nondescript wooden building behind Hotel Buddha, identified with an official yellow sign in Nepalese with a faded paper sign in English stuck on to it. Expect a lengthy queue on Saturdays, which is market day.

LTE service is available at the summit through China Mobile, but mobile phone service elsewhere in the region is uncertain at best.

Namche also has several Internet cafes. A good one is Namche Cyber Cafe next to Everest Bakery. They also have Wi-Fi. Rs. 100 Rs per half hour, Rs. 200 an hour.

Tengboche has an Internet cafe, its Rs. 20 per min.

Dingboche has an Internet cafe called Peak 38th with fast satellite Internet laptops at Rs. 20 per min.

Gorak Shep Internet cafe is Rs. 25 per min, and is very slow.

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Everest Base Camp Elevation and Altitude Profile Guide

The first thing that comes to mind when you look for trekking to Everest is, “What is the altitude where I will be traveling to?” This is a question that you should ask yourself to know about the geography of the region. And to prepare well for the trek you are going to undertake.

The altitude profile is dependent on the travel packages that you undertake. Your actual trek starts generally from the Lukla airport, which is at an altitude of 2800 meters.

If you are thinking of climbing the Everest itself, you will be at the top of the highest peak on the Earth i.e. 8848 meters. But a trekker to the Base Camp doesn’t have to climb that high. In fact, the Base Camp is at an altitude of 5365 meters.

The weather of the places that you encounter along the way depends on the altitude. The lower altitude regions are quite warm when compared to the higher altitudes. So, the wind in the lower altitude regions seems to be harmless too. Also, the seasons which you decide to trek will determine the temperature.

In this article, I will give you a glimpse of the various trekking routes available in the Everest region. Along with the various altitudes of the places that you are likely to encounter along the way.

Table of Content

Everest Base Camp Different Packages, Elevation and Altitude Profile

1. everest heli trek altitude profile.

A Helicopter trek is perfect for people who want to experience the beauty of trekking without allocating much time on trekking. This trek also reduces the strain in your body as you don’t have to trek in very high altitudes.

To complete this trek, you will first have to come to the capital city of Kathmandu, which is at an altitude of 1400 meters. Short hikes around the hillocks in Kathmandu can be a very good way to train your legs. And to get used to some altitude and steep, sloppy trails.

People who have lived all their lives close to the sea level can go to places like Nagarkot. The place is scenic, cool and helps in warming up for the Everest trek.

From Kathmandu, you will fly to the thrilling  Lukla airport at an altitude of 2800 meters. From Lukla, you will go to Phakding which is 200 meters lower than Lukla is.

From Phakding you will go to Namche Bazaar. Namche Bazaar, the city-like place shown in movies such as Everest, locates at an altitude of 3441 meters. You will also get a chance to go to Thame and be back to Namche Bazaar. Thame is 3800 meters above the sea level.

From Namche Bazaar, you will have a chance to visit the Base Camp as well as Kala Pathar in a helicopter. And then you will be back to Lukla on your way back to Kathmandu. This means that you will trek for 4 days in the Everest region.

Itinerary and Altitudes of the places along the way

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2. Gokyo Valley Trek Altitude

If you are looking for something demanding and want to complete your trek in around two weeks, Gokyo valley trek is the one you should look forward to.

Gokyo valley is a wonderful valley in the Everest region which is full of mountains, lakes and beautiful skies. Your trek will start in the same region as the Everest Heli trek. You start from Lukla to Phakding to Namche Bazaar.

After acclimatizing in Namche Bazaar, you will go to Phortse Thanga, at an altitude of 3680 meters. Then you will go to the Maccherma, which is 4470 meters high. You should spend a day in each of these places to get accustomed to the climate as well as the altitude of this place.

From Machherma, you will go to the awesome valley of Gokyo. This village is at the base of the third of the Gokyo lakes called Dudh Pokhari. Gokyo valley has a height of 4790 meters. From here you will go to Gokyo Ri at an altitude of 5483 meters.

From Gokyo Ri, it is possible to see Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Makalu and Mt. Cho Oyu. All these peaks are taller than 8000 meters.

From Gokyo Ri, you will trek back to Namche in 2 days time.

3. Everest Base Camp with Island Peak Trek Altitude profile

Island peak treks will last for 21 days. This extensive trek should be well prepared for. You will see many places in the Everest region. Like other treks in the Everest region, this trek starts from Lukla to Namche.

From Namche Bazaar, you will go to Tengboche at an altitude of 3860 meters. You will also get to see the Tengboche monastery in this region. This is a monastery that has high spiritual values in the Everest region.

From Tengboche, you will trek to Dingboche. Dingboche is a Sherpa village that is 4350 meters high. From Dingboche will go to Nangkartshang peak which is over 5000 meters i.e. 5083 meters.

Next day, you will descend to Lobuche which is 4910 meters and then trek to the Everest Base Camp. Everest Base Camp is at an altitude of 5365 meters high. Ascend to  Kala Pathar at a height of 5555 meters gives you the best view of the Everest peak.

From here you get a walk to the Island Peak Base Camp. The island peak has a height similar to the Everest Base camp i.e. 5240 meters. The Base Camp is the starting point for the Island Peak.

The Island Peak will be the highest point that you will reach.  It is 6187 meters high. From Island peak, you will get down to the places that you have trekked from all the way to the Lukla airport.

4. Jiri to Everest Base Camp trek

Jiri trek is the best one that you can encounter. This trek starts from Jiri, a place you will drive to, from Kathmandu. Jiri, located at an altitude of a mere 1900 meters is the starting point for Classic EBC trek via Jiri route.

From here you will go to Bhandar, which lies at an altitude of 2200 meters.

From Bhandar you will go to Sete (2645 meters) to Junbesi (2675 meters) to Nunthala (2440 meters) to Kharikhola (2020 meters) to Puiyan (2700 meters) and finally to Phakding.

To get enough rest and acclimatizing with the changing altitude, you will have to spend a night at each of these places. From Phakding, you will go to the places mentioned above.

Other helpful Information about trekking in Everest Region

Animal rearing and tourism are the two ways people earn a livelihood in this region. Therefore, life is harsh in places with harsh climatic conditions.

The only way to transport goods in this region is by the means of airways. And airfare means high transportation charges in Nepal. So, the price of food, drinks, and other items in this place is slightly higher than you may encounter in other parts of Nepal.

The native people here are Sherpas, some of the strongest men in Nepal who survive in such a difficult climate.

As Sherpas dominate this place, it should come as no surprise that their culture has Tibetan influence.

Besides Sherpa, the ever-present Brahmins and Chhetris are also present in the Everest region. This makes the place culturally rich and religiously diverse. The main religion of this region is Tibetan Buddhism.

As this place is near the Tibetan border, you expect the religion to have high influence Buddhism. There are several Buddhist monasteries in this region to see. The most famous of them being the Tengboche Monastery.

You might say that the Everest is extremely cold and it is definitely true. But, the temperatures can be high during the daytime in the summers. In hot summers, the daytime temperature can reach as high as 25 degrees.

But, the temperatures in the daytime in the summers can reach as low as an average of 8 degrees in January winters. Needless to say, the wintertime temperatures go below the freezing point of water. If the cold gets extreme, the temperature can be as low as -15 degrees.

It is difficult to pinpoint a particular temperature for a day of a month. This is due to the fact that the temperatures in the mountain region are unpredictable.  A Harsh wind that can blow as hard as 12 mph brings weather changes in mountains.

Good clothing will come in handy when you are planning for a trek to Everest. For best and easy trekking, you need to carry Down jackets, water-resistant boots, and trousers. Along with moisturizers, winter hats, gloves, socks, trekking poles, and anti-theft backpacks. And, backpack chargers, basic first-aid equipment, water purifying tablets, torch, and a few backup clothes.

There are various ways in which you can go to the Everest region. The length of the trek depends upon how many places you want to see and how much time you have in hand. The altitude of Everest region is quite high. As it lies above 3000 meters you will have to go slow in your treks and give your body enough time to acclimatize. Sleep will be of the utmost importance too.

It is always good to do a background check all the things that are necessary for you to know before undertaking the trek. That way you will be fully prepared for anything that comes along the way. And, it includes the climatic conditions and altitude too.

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Best everest base camp trek itinerary (12 days).

Whether you’re planning on hiking in Nepal with a guide or trekking the Khumbu region independently, this Everest Base Camp trek itinerary should give you a clear idea about what to expect. 

Everest Base Camp has been on my bucket list for 15 years, ever since I learned about the Himlayas at school. 

But I never had a chance to do it until Spring 2024, when my partner’s friends organised a group of us to undertake the hike. 

When I was preparing for the hike, I was full of questions. How much money do I need? Is it safe? How should I train? 

But, above all, what is the standard Everest Base Camp trek itinerary? 

We were provided an itinerary for the trail, but I was craving more details. 

So, when I was doing the trek, I decided to put together our detailed Everest Base Camp itinerary to help any future hikers! 

This is the standard itinerary that’s followed by most tour groups, with a few variations, and my experience and thoughts about it. If you’re hiking independently I have put a few suggested tweaks in that I think could improve the itinerary.

Let’s get into it! 

Everest Base Camp trek itinerary

The typical Everest Base Camp itinerary is as follows:

• Day 1: Flight from Kathmandu to Lukla; trek to Phakding
• Day 2: Phakding to Namche Bazar
• Day 3: Acclimatization day in Namche Bazar
• Day 4: Namche Bazar to Tengbouche
• Day 5: Tengbouche to Dingboche
• Day 6: Acclimatization day in Dingboche
• Day 7: Dingboche to Lobuche
• Day 8: Lobuche to Gorak Shep; visit Everest Base Camp
• Day 9: Hike to Kala Patthar; return to Gorak Shep; trek down to Pangboche
• Day 10: Pangboche to Namche Bazar
• Day 11: Namche Bazar to Lukla
• Day 12: Flight from Lukla back to Kathmandu

This is the itinerary that most tour companies use, give or take a few stops (for example, some groups hike to Manjo rather than Phakding on the first day, or stay in Periche rather than Pangboche on day 9).

And of course, if you’re trekking independently, yours might look a bit different.

Here’s what to expect on each day!

Day one – Fly to Lukla – hike to Phakding

• Start Elevation: Lukla – 2,860 meters (9,383 feet)
• End Elevation: Phakding – 2,610 meters (8,563 feet)
• Elevation Loss: 250 meters (820 feet)
• Distance: Approximately 8 km (5 miles)
• Difficulty: Easy

Your Everest Base Camp hike begins by flying to Lukla airport – often dubbed the “world’s most dangerous airport” ( you can see my thoughts on it here ). 

The timing of your flight can vary greatly – it depends on the weather, which is incredibly temperamental at Lukla (as expected at 2,800 metres altitude) and how many passengers. Flights might depart as early as 6 AM or as late as mid-afternoon. 

Keep in mind, there’s a 50% chance flights could be cancelled due to weather. If this happens, you might need to wait for the next available flight (which could be the next day) or opt for a helicopter ride at an additional cost (we were told that this would be $400 per person, although I have heard of people paying much cheaper). 

Upon arrival in Lukla – elevation 2,860 meters – you’ll feel the anticipation buzzing through the crisp mountain air. 

Compared to other villages along the trail, Lukla is positively cosmopolitan, with a variety of shops and tea houses. 

The trek to Phakding is a gentle introduction to the Himalayan terrain. 

It’s mostly downhill (although there are some ups, too – this is Nepali Flat ) and takes about 3 to 4 hours, covering around 8 kilometres. As you descend to Phakding (2,610 metres), you’ll pass through beautiful landscapes dotted with traditional Sherpa villages and monasteries and walk along the Dudh Koshi River.

The path is well-maintained, with plenty of spots to rest, grab a snack or use the toilet. While the altitude here is significant, it’s generally not high enough to trigger acute mountain sickness, though some of us started feeling the elevation! 

Some hikers continue to Monjo, but whether you’ll be able to do this depends on what time your plane lands. I wouldn’t recommend counting on being able to hike past Phakding.

My Suggestions

For a less tiring start to this journey, I’d advise spending the night in Ramechhap or flying to Lukla a day early.

Staying in Kathmandu requires waking up around 2am for the drive to Ramechhap, which can be exhausting even before your trek begins! 

Many tour companies offer accommodation arrangements in these locations – if you’re on a private tour, just ask your organiser before heading out.

Where to stay

We stayed in Trekkers Lodge Phakding , which was cosy and well-appointed – I loved the outdoor sitting area with views of the hills! Rooms were en-suite, with a shower – although the water was freezing cold. 

Day Two –  Phakding to Namche Bazar

• Start Elevation: Phakding – 2,610 meters (8,563 feet)
• End Elevation: Namche Bazar – 3,440 meters (11,286 feet)
• Elevation Gain: 830 meters (2,723 feet)
• Distance: Approximately 10-12 km (6-7.5 miles)
• Difficulty: Moderate

Today is your first full day on the trail! 

Today’s trek from Phakding to Namche Bazar is where the real climbing begins. 

The hike starts with a pleasant walk along the Dudh Koshi River, but don’t be fooled by the easy path – it will get more difficult! You’ll cover approximately 10 to 12 kilometres today, which usually takes about 5 to 7 hours without breaks, depending on your pace.

As you leave Phakding, the trail meanders through magnificent pine forests, crossing and recrossing the river several times on suspension bridges draped with prayer flags that flutter in the wind. I found these bridges to be rather hair-raising, but they are stable! 

The most famous is the Hillary Suspension Bridge , named after the first Westerner to summit Everest (along with Sherpa Tenzing Norgay ). 

Elevation gain is a key part of today’s hike, as you ascend from Phakding at 2,610 meters to Namche Bazar at 3,440 meters – this is quite a lot of altitude to gain at once, but unfortunately, there’s not really anywhere else you can stop (as you’ll gain most of this elevation on the steep climb up to Namche!). 

As you approach the village, you might start feeling the altitude – I found the last ascent into Namche particularly challenging. 

Namche Bazar, often considered the gateway to the high Himalayas and the largest town in the Everest region, is a bustling sherpa community that offers a warm welcome to trekkers. Here, you’ll find an array of cafes, bakeries shops and the world’s highest Irish pub !

It’s a cultural hub where trekkers can soak up the local culture and prepare for higher altitudes in the days to come.

Hotel 8848 was a fun tea house with a great atmosphere. I’d definitely recommend staying here, and try the veggie burger in the restaurant – it’s excellent!

Day Three – Acclimatization in Namche Bazar

• Activities: Hiking uphill and then down for acclimatisation
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Take today to acclimatise and explore the heart of the Khumbu region, Namche Bazar. 

Your body will thank you for allowing it time to adjust to the higher altitude! 

All organised treks will include a day of acclimatisation in Namche , and I’d highly recommend doing the same if you’re hiking independently. 

However, acclimatisation doesn’t mean resting all day! In fact, the best way to acclimatise is to keep active. 

Start your morning with a short hike up about 150 meters to the Sagarmatha National Park Museum .

As it’s just above Namche, this climb not only helps with acclimatisation but you can also catch a glimpse of Mount Everest on a clear day! 

The museum itself is well worth a visit – here, you’ll discover insights into Sherpa people, the history of Everest expeditions and its geography. 

After your museum visit, continue your hike up to the Everest View Hotel.  

Aim to reach early; the views are best in the morning, as afternoons are often cloudy! 

The hotel is apparently the highest luxury hotel in the world and we visited for a cup of tea. It was surprisingly the most underwhelming—and the priciest—tea I had, served DIY style with just a pot of hot water and the raw ingredients. 

Also, note trekkers are expected to use the external bathrooms, so keep some toilet paper handy!

If I did the trek again and it was unlikely that I’d see Everest from the hotel, I’d probably stop a bit before it and return to Namche. The last part of the trail is flat, so you could just hike to 4800 metres and then descend rather than pay for the Khumbu region’s most expensive tea at the hotel! 

After lunching at our tea house, we had the afternoon at leisure. Our tea house (Hotel 8848) had hot showers which was bliss, and I did a bit of last-minute shopping! 

Day Four – ​Namche Bazar to Tengboche

• Start Elevation: Namche Bazar – 3,440 meters (11,286 feet)
• End Elevation: Tengboche – 3,860 meters (12,664 feet)
• Elevation Gain: 420 meters (1,378 feet)
• Distance: Approximately 9-10 km (5.6-6.2 miles)

First up on day four is a climb out of Namche Bazar, heading up to a path that runs above the town. Then, it’s generally flat for a while, with a few minor uphills and downhills. 

While this is fairly easy, it was here that I started feeling awful – low energy, headachey and a bit sick.

At our tea stop, I started taking Diamox as I thought it might be due to altitude sickness.

We lunched just before the infamous uphill zig-zag path that leads to Tengboche monastery. 

This path is steep and relentless – it took us about two hours to reach the top (elevation: 3,800 metres). 

Here, the air is noticeably thinner. Dominating the landscape is the majestic Tengboche Monastery. 

It’s well worth popping into – with an entry fee of just 300 rupees, it offers not only a moment of spiritual reflection but also a chance to admire its intricate artistry up close. When we visited, we even got a blessing from one of the resident monks!

Inside, the air is heavy with the scent of incense; the walls, stories high, are adorned with ancient thangkas.

However, by the time we reached the top of the zig-zags, we didn’t have the energy for a monastery visit – instead, we popped in on the way back down. 

From Tengbouche Monastery, it was a 45 minute walk to Good Luck Tea House , where we were staying for the night. 

Despite the name, this was not a lucky night for me. My nausea had worsened and I retreated straight up to our room, where I was quickly quite sick! (Luckily, we had an en-suite bathroom, unluckily, the walls were paper-thin). 

I wasn’t sure if this was altitude or food-related, but I thankfully did start feeling a lot better after I was sick. My guide was an angel and brought me dinner and reassured me that I was ok for the moment, and could see how I felt in the morning regarding altitude.  

I had one episode of diarrhoea in the night, but thankfully woke up in the morning feeling fragile, but lots better and able to continue the hike.

Good Luck Tea House was decent, although my memory of being there is marred by feeling awful!

Day Five – Tengbouche to Dingboche 

• Start Elevation:  Tengbouche – 3,800 meters (12,467 feet)
• End Elevation:  Dingboche – 4,410 meters (14,470 feet)
• Elevation Gain:  610 meters (2,000 feet)
• Distance:  Approximately 11 km (6.8 miles)
• Difficulty:  Moderate

The trek was starting to get harder due to the altitude, but other than that, this hike is a lot more manageable than previous days.

However, as I was still quite fragile, I struggled with the first part of it! 

We weaved out of Tengbouche and through the last of the trees – after our lunch stop, we’d be hiking above the tree line. 

As the trail ascends toward Dingboche, the increase in altitude becomes more apparent, and the air noticeably thinner. 

However, the ascents are nowhere near as severe as the previous days. 

Dingboche, sitting at an altitude of 4,410 meters is a critical acclimatisation stop. It’s very important to take a day to acclimatise here!

We stayed at Good Luck Tea House again – it’s a branch of the same tea house in Tengboche – and had a couple of hours in the afternoon to relax before dinner. I couldn’t face much food – I was scared of being sick again – so I just had a bowl of plain pasta with salt and pepper. 

Day Six: Acclimatization Day in Dingboche

• Elevation:  Dingboche – 4,410 meters (14,470 feet)
• Activities:  Short acclimatization hike
• Total Hiking Time:  Approximately 2 hours
• Elevation Gain:  300 meters
• Difficulty:  Easy

Day six on the Everest Base Camp trek is a key acclimatization stop in Dingboche. There are a variety of hikes to do around the village – we opted for a fairly easy but still hilly trek. You can do longer, but for our group, this worked well to acclimatise while still having ample time to rest. 

Above Dingboche, there are three flagpoles, the highest of which is 300 meters above the town. We opted to hike to the highest one. 

 This hike is easier and shorter than the previous acclimatisation day in Namche Bazar, taking about 2 hours in total. 

I was feeling much better today, so felt quite invigorated as we hiked around!

There are lots of photo stops on the way too – the mountain views are stunning – including the famous rock that everyone gets a photo at. Climbing on it isn’t as scary as it looks! 

After returning to Dingboche, you have the rest of the day to relax! 

We decided to visit Cafe 4410, a popular bakery serving hot drinks, cakes and heavier meals. Try one of their luxury hot chocolates! 

We actually ended up in the cafe for hours – the waiter put on the Everest movie, so we watched that and enjoyed being stationary for a bit! 

Day Seven: Dingboche to Lobuche

• Start Elevation:  Dingboche – 4,410 meters (14,470 feet)
• End Elevation:  Lobuche – 4,900 meters (16,076 feet)
• Elevation Gain:  490 meters (1,608 feet)
• Distance:  Approximately 7-8 km (4.3-5 miles)
• Difficulty:  Moderate to Challenging

You’re going to hike to nearly 5,000 metres today, so buckle up! 

Leaving Dingboche behind, you’ll feel like you’re saying farewell to the vestiges of normality as the landscape transitions into more stark, alpine scenery. 

Today’s route progresses from 4,410 meters in Dingboche to 4,900 meters in Lobuche, navigating through changing terrains and increasing altitudes.

The trek starts gently – it’s more or less flat as it exits Dingboche.

Then, it follows up the valley, gradually gaining elevation slowly. 

We stopped for lunch in Thukla at the Yak Lodge. I’d recommend having the ramen noodles here (simple, but gives you hydration and energy) and avoiding the fried noodles – I had them on the way down and they were awful. 

After Thukla, it’s time to climb up the cliff face! This looks short, but the altitude and steepness mean it’ll take around an hour. 

At the top of the climb, you’ll find a memorial site which honours climbers who have lost their lives trying to summit Everest. 

It was especially poignant for us, as we’d just watched the Everest movie the day before, which focuses on the 1996 disaster .

We saw memorials to Rob Hall and Scott Fisher, who were two of the victims. It’s a harrowing reminder of how dangerous the mountains can be, but don’t worry – the dangers lie after base camp, not before it (take a look at my article about Everest Base Camp safety for more information ). 

After passing the smaller Lobuche Base Camp, the trek continues for another 90 minutes to reach the village of Lobuche. 

While the hike is not technically difficult aside from the uphill section, the increasing altitude makes the physical exertion feel more intense, and symptoms of altitude sickness may start to become more noticeable!

Lobuche is known for housing the world’s highest bakery ; it’s not as well stocked as Dingboche, but I was surprised to see it at all!

I can’t recommend our tea house in Loboche (Mother Earth)

It was notably less comfortable compared to previous nights, with no lights in the bedrooms and substandard toilet facilities. It also backed onto the stables, so we could smell animals from the corridor! 

This is partially due to it being such high altitude but our tea house in Gorak Shep, 300 metres higher, was a lot better!

Day Eight – Loboche – Everest Base Camp – Gorak Shep

• Start Elevation: Lobuche – 4,900 meters (16,076 feet)
• End Elevation at EBC: Everest Base Camp – 5,364 meters (17,598 feet)
• End Elevation at Gorak Shep: Gorak Shep – 5,164 meters (16,942 feet)
• Elevation Gain: 464 meters (1,522 feet) to EBC
• Distance: Approximately 15 km (9.3 miles) total
• Difficulty: Challenging

Today’s the day! 

We finally reached the base of the highest mountain in the world. 

The morning journey from Lobuche to Gorak Shep had relatively gentle uphills, but at altitudes surpassing 5,000 meters, the air is notably thinner—oxygen levels hover around 55% of what they are at sea level. 

This significant reduction in oxygen can make even slight inclines feel disproportionately challenging!

This was also the only area around Everest Base Camp where I felt like it was too busy. The pathway is narrow here, and lots of hikers were on their way to base camp, so it was quite chaotic at times! 

You will catch your first view of Everest Base Camp (and the Khumbu icefall) here. 

In Gorak Shep, a small settlement at 5,200 meters, we stopped for lunch and a brief rest. As I mentioned, the tea house here was much better than Loboche! 

Then, it was time for the final leg to Everest Base Camp! 

The trail followed the same pattern as the morning – a net incline of 164 metres, but a lot of downhill and uphill along the route.

After around 2.5 hours, we made it! Everest Base Camp is 5,364 metres high, and it’s where summiteers stay for around two months while preparing to hike to the summit of Mount Everest, the highest point in the world. 

As a tourist, access is restricted to the periphery of the actual campsite, but even from the edges, the sense of adventure and the scale of the expeditions are palpable. 

You can catch a view of Everest from the base camp, and of course take photos with the signature rock. Although, since 2024, there’s been a sign over part of it, so photos are more limited these days! 

We stayed at Buddha Lodge , which, while basic, was remarkably better than Mother Earth in Loboche. For such high altitude, I was impressed with their food offerings. Try the hash brown!

Day Nine: Gorak Shep – Kala Patthar – Pangboche

• Start Elevation:  Gorak Shep – 5,164 meters (16,942 feet)
• Highest Point: Kala Patthar – 5,545 meters (18,192 feet) – this is the highest altitude that you’ll go on the trek
• End Elevation:  Pangboche – 3,985 meters (13,074 feet)
• Distance:  Approximately 15-16 km (9-10 miles)
• Difficulty:  Challenging due to altitude and initial ascent, then easier descent

The best view of Everest isn’t actually from Everest Base Camp!

If you can handle even higher elevations, I’d recommend a pre-dawn hike from Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar. 

This is just a steep climb from Gorak Shep, and while the full ascent to Kala Patthar’s peak is popular, a partial hike still offers incredible views of Everest and the surrounding peaks, some of which mark the border between Nepal and Tibet.

Not many of us in our group opted to do this trek, but I’d highly recommend it if you can get out of bed (we left at 5am). I found standing underneath the world’s highest mountains as the sun came up to be absolutely enchanting. 

The trail then leads down! We retraced our steps, back to Loboche and then further downhill. The first hour was still up and down, which was tough, but then it swiftly got easier. 

We were originally aiming for Periche on this day, which sits just below Dingboche, but ultimately decided to descend further to Pangboche, as we had daylight and knew that we’d feel better the further we descended. 

The trail was mostly downhill, and was very easy for the most part. 

We stayed at Buddha Lodge and Restaurant , which was quite cosy – we were the only people there!

Day Ten: Pangboche – Namche Bazar

• Start Elevation:  Pangboche – 3,985 meters (13,074 feet)
• End Elevation:  Namche Bazar – 3,440 meters (11,286 feet)
• Distance:  Approximately 14-15 km (8.7-9.3 miles)
• Difficulty:  Moderate

Continuing the descent, the path from Pangboche to Namche Bazar winds through beautiful Himalayan forests (the trees are back!) and traditional Sherpa villages. 

Don’t forget to visit Tengboche Monastery on the way back if you didn’t while ascending. 

The trek is mostly downhill, although just as the trail was up and down on the way up, it’s down and up on the way back! There is a particularly hilly section midway through the day.

Once you arrive in Namche, you’ll feel like you’re in the land of mod cons!

We had our first shower in a week and then went to the Irish pub for an alcoholic drink. The Irish pub also serves excellent pizza, easily the best thing I ate all week! 

We stayed at Hotel 8848 again.

Day Eleven: Namche Bazar to Lukla

• Start Elevation:  Namche Bazar – 3,440 meters (11,286 feet)
• End Elevation:  Lukla – 2,860 meters (9,383 feet)
• Distance:  Approximately 18-19 km (11-12 miles)
• Difficulty:  Challenging due to the afternoon uphill section

It’s the final day of trekking!

The first descent is easy (I do recommend hiking poles, they’ll make this part of the trek much easier), but once we were down in the valley, we then had to climb uphill.

It wasn’t as hard as climbing at high altitudes, but on the last day of the trek, the very last thing I wanted to do was go uphill some more!

However, Lukla is a welcome respite from the trekking; here, you can purchase Everest souvenirs (although you can also get these in Kathmandu) and relax at one of the tea houses. We stayed at The Nest. 

We stayed at The Nest , which is where we had lunch on the first day. We had en-suite bathrooms with showers, which could be made hot (for free!) but the beds were incredibly hard here. But, it was our last day in tea houses before we flew back to Kathmandu!

Day Eleven: Flight back to Ramechhap

Another 18 minute flight beckons on this day, but while it’s a very short time in the air, you could end up waiting a while for it!

For us, it wasn’t too bad. We stayed at The Nest (which is right by the airport) until it was time to check in, and then had around a 45 minute wait in the airport before we boarded. 

Then, our van was waiting for us to take us back to Kathmandu! 

If you have an international flight out of Nepal, I’d recommend leaving a couple of days before it, just in case the weather doesn’t play ball and you end up stuck in Lukla! 

How many days do I need for the Everest Base Camp trek? 

Most Everest Base Camp itineraries are 12 days long (not including days in Kathmandu). This is because most tourists only have two weeks off work, and it lets them fit it into their holiday time. 

It’s possible to do it quicker, but I wouldn’t recommend it unless you have experience at similar altitudes. Acclimatisation is all-important on this hike! If you really need a day less, you could fit the descent into two days rather than three. 

Plus, if you’re hiking independently and are able to, I’d recommend taking longer on the hike. Allowing an extra day for acclimatisation in Namche Bazar and stopping more on the way from Namche to base camp could help you avoid feeling unwell. 

Having extra days to play with also helps in case of bad weather and flight cancellations. 

When is the best time to hike to Everest Base Camp?

The best times to hike Everest Base Camp are during the pre-monsoon spring months of March, April and May, and the post-monsoon autumn months of October and November.

Spring (March, April and May):

Spring is a popular time as the weather is generally stable and relatively warm. Of course, it’ll be much colder in March than May! 

Additionally, as it’s pre-monsoon, the likelihood of rain is lower so typically the trails are dry and safer for trekking.

It’s also when most summit attempts leave from Base Camp, so you’ll see most of the activity at the actual camp at this time (usually from mid-April through May). At other times of year (including March), base camp will be a lot quieter. 

Autumn (October and November):

The Autumn season is another prime trekking time, with clear skies and temperate weather.

The air after the monsoon is fresh and clear, offering some of the best views of Everest and the surrounding Himalayas. 

Plus, the trails aren’t as crowded as they are in the spring months – but you won’t see anywhere near the amount of activity at base camp. 

Off-Peak Seasons

Trekking is possible year-round, but most hikers don’t attempt it in the monsoon season (June to early September) or winter. 

In the monsoon season, trails can be slippery, mountain views obscured and there’s a much higher chance of landslides. 

In the winter season, temperatures are freezing, with lots of snow and the chance of some passes being closed. 

Do you need a guide to hike Everest Base Camp? 

In the Everest region, unlike other areas in Nepal, hiring a guide is not mandatory. However, I couldn’t imagine doing the hike without a guide. 

Our guide helped us manage health concerns like altitude sickness, trekking permits, ensured safe navigation on the trail (ours helped us deal with the many oxen that we had to share the trail with!), facilitated interactions with local communities, and handled logistics such as accommodations and flights. 

Their knowledge and skills in addressing sudden medical issues or route changes are invaluable. Plus, hiring guides (and porters!) helps the local economy. 

I’d also recommend hiring a porter for this reason; while it feels lazy not carrying your gear, porters are accustomed to the altitude and carrying heavy loads (although not too heavy! Ours could carry a maximum of 30kg, split between two people). Hiring them gives them work, which isn’t always easy to find in the remote Himalayas. 

Are you ready to hike Everest Base Camp? 

There’s no experience in the world quite like hiking to Everest Base Camp, seeing the world’s highest mountains and fathoming what an undertaking summitting Everest is. While it was tough, I’d recommend it to anyone who feels able to. You’ll quite literally feel like you’re on top of the world! 

I have lots of blog posts and YouTube videos to come, and I’ve already been posting on TikTok and Instagram , so hopefully I’ll be covering all bases regarding the EBC trek. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out on social media and I’ll try my best to answer you! 

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Knowledge Monk

Everest Base Camp – Height, Elevation & Distance For An Ultimate Trek

• Last Updated: July 20, 2024
• July 20, 2024
• No Comments

Mount Everest, the highest peak on Earth, draws adventurers and mountaineers from around the world. But before anyone can attempt to summit this colossal mountain, they must first reach Everest Base Camp (EBC), a destination that is an achievement in itself. How high is Everest Base Camp? Let’s explore the elevation, the journey to get there, and what makes this trek a bucket-list adventure for many.

The Elevation of Everest Base Camp

Everest Base Camp is located at an impressive altitude of 5,364 meters (17,598 feet) above sea level. This is the height at which climbers begin their final preparations for the summit push, but it’s also a popular trekking destination for those who want to experience the majestic Himalayas without attempting the full climb to the top of Everest. Below is an altitude elevation chart for each stop on this trek:

Distance of the Everest Base Camp

The trek to Everest Base Camp covers a distance of approximately 130 kilometers (80 miles) round trip. This distance may seem manageable, but the challenging terrain and high altitude make it a rigorous journey. Each day involves several hours of trekking, with ascents and descents that test physical and mental endurance. Despite the challenges, the journey is incredibly rewarding, offering trekkers unparalleled views of the Himalayas and a profound sense of accomplishment.

The Journey to Everest Base Camp

Reaching Everest Base Camp is no small feat. The journey typically begins in Lukla, a small town with one of the world’s most thrilling airports. From Lukla, trekkers embark on a multi-day hike through stunning landscapes, traditional Sherpa villages, and challenging terrain. The trek usually takes about 12 to 14 days, allowing for acclimatization and rest. Here is everest base camp trek map for easy reference:

Key Stops Along the Way:

• Lukla (2,860 meters / 9,383 feet): The starting point of the trek.
• Namche Bazaar (3,440 meters / 11,286 feet): A bustling market town and acclimatization stop.
• Tengboche (3,867 meters / 12,687 feet): Known for its beautiful monastery and panoramic views.
• Dingboche (4,410 meters / 14,470 feet): Another acclimatization point with breathtaking scenery.
• Lobuche (4,940 meters / 16,207 feet): The final stop before reaching Base Camp.

Why Trek to Everest Base Camp?

Trekking to Everest Base Camp is a life-changing experience for many reasons:

• Stunning Scenery: The route offers incredible views of the Himalayas, including peaks like Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and, of course, Everest itself.
• Cultural Immersion: The trek passes through Sherpa villages, providing a unique opportunity to experience local culture and hospitality.
• Physical Challenge: The high altitude and rugged terrain make this trek a significant physical challenge, testing endurance and resilience.
• Sense of Achievement: Reaching EBC is a remarkable achievement and a dream for many trekkers worldwide.

Acclimatization and Altitude Sickness

One of the biggest challenges of the trek is the altitude. As trekkers ascend, the air becomes thinner, and the risk of altitude sickness increases. Proper acclimatization is crucial to minimize this risk. This involves taking rest days at higher altitudes, staying hydrated, and listening to one’s body.

Life at Everest Base Camp

Everest Base Camp itself is a bustling hub of activity during the climbing season. It serves as the staging area for climbers preparing to make their ascent of Everest. The camp is filled with tents, climbing gear, and the camaraderie of adventurers from around the globe. Despite its remote location, Base Camp often has many of the amenities necessary for climbers to rest and prepare, including medical facilities and communication setups.

Everest Base Camp, sitting at 5,364 meters (17,598 feet), is more than just a waypoint for those aiming to summit Everest; it is a destination in its own right. The journey to Base Camp is filled with breathtaking scenery, cultural encounters, and the profound challenge of high-altitude trekking. Covering a distance of approximately 130 kilometers (80 miles) round trip, the trek tests the limits of endurance and resilience. For many, reaching EBC is a lifelong dream and a testament to their adventurous spirit and determination. Whether you’re an aspiring mountaineer or a trekking enthusiast, Everest Base Camp offers an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Himalayas.

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Everest Base Camp Trek Distance, Elevation Gain, & Time by Day

By: Author Charles

Posted on May 8, 2023

The Everest Base Camp trek in Sagarmatha National Park of Nepal is one of the most iconic multi day hiking routes in the world. Due to its length, terrain, elevation gain, and difficulty, this trek is not for everyone out there.

This guide is going to go over the day by day distances, trekking time, and elevation gains for the 11 day route and help better prepare you for your time on the trail.

*  Affiliate Disclosure : This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you make a purchase through the links provided, at no additional cost to you. Thanks for supporting the work I put into TripTins!

1) Everest Base Camp Trek Logistics

To be clear, this guide is to better help you understand all the details from a numbers and stats perspective behind an 11 day Everest Base Camp trek itinerary – distances, trekking times, and elevation gains day by day.

I won’t be talking much about landscapes, terrain, villages, etc. in this guide but you can check this Everest Base Camp Trekking Guide that talks more about the trail itself.

When I was researching the trail on my own, I found a lot of differing information with some of these distances, times, and elevation gains.

Now that I have spent time in the region, completed the trek on my own, and understand the landscape profile more clearly, I can better help everyone else prepare for their time on the trail.

Below is a spreadsheet that I put together that can better breakdown the distances, times, and elevation gains by day .

You can see the day by day breakout including starting and ending points for the day, distances (miles and km), average duration on the trail, beginning and ending elevation of villages (taken from the National Geographic Hiking Map), true elevation gain (feet and meters) – more on that soon, and net elevation gain (feet and meters).

The true elevation gains & distances are calculated based on my own GPS data, other hiker’s data, and cross checked with topographic map data.

Taking into account the entirety of the trek from Lukla to Everest Base Camp and back to Lukla, including acclimatization hikes in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche, and the hike up/down Kala Patthar, you are looking at 77 Miles / 123 Kilometers of trekking. 

On average that means you will be walking for 7.0 Miles / 11.2 Kilometers per day.

You may come across some different numbers throughout your research, but by using my own GPS data coupled with those of other hikers and hiking websites, I am confident these are some of the most accurate numbers when it comes to actual distance on the trail.

Hiking Times

Hiking times are the toughest numbers to estimate accurately since everyone has different paces in general.

Some people may be faster on downhills while others may be faster on uphills so there can be a wide range of hiking times.

On average though for a normal hiker, I have estimated 62 hours of trekking, which averages out to just over 5.5 hours per day. For the faster hikers out there that could be closer to 4 hours and for the slower, closer to 7 hours.

The shortest days out there on the trail will be about 3 hours, with the longest days on the trail being 8 hours. So overall, there will be a good variety of hiking times as you make your way along the trail.

Elevation Gain

One of the main issues I came across was from an elevation gain standpoint.

A lot of day by day breakouts basically said if Namche Bazaar is at 11,286 feet of elevation and Tengboche is at 12,664 feet of elevation, that means you are gaining +1,378 feet of elevation in the day. This is what is shown in the last two columns of the chart.

However, that 1,378 feet is the net elevation gain, not the total gain. The route has numerous ups and downs throughout, making the true gain 2,881 feet (shown in the previous two columns).

And elevation changes like this does happen frequently on the Everest Base Camp trail! Even on those downhills back from Base Camp to Lukla, you will have several thousand feet of elevation gain sprawled throughout.

The trail starts at Lukla at 9,318 feet / 2,840 meters and goes up to Everest Base Camp at 17,598 feet / 5,364 meters. You may assume you are gaining the difference between the two – 8,280 feet / 2,524 meters.

However, throughout the entire trail including your acclimatization hikes, you will be gaining around 24,000 feet / 7,300 meters of elevation –  that is about triple the number that you may have expected!

So, I am hoping this short guide better helps you understand the landscape of the Everest Base Camp trek and cleans up any misconceptions about the route when it comes to distances, times, and elevation gains.

2) EBC Trekking Map

Below is a map of the Everest Base Camp trek that begins down in Lukla and slowly makes its way up to Everest Base Camp over the course of 8 days.

During the trek you will have two acclimatization hikes (one in Namche Bazaar on day 3 to the Hotel Everest View and one in Dingboche on day 6 to Nangkartshang Peak), as well as a hike up to Kala Patthar on day 9 before starting the trek back to Lukla.

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3) Everest Base Camp Trek Elevation Profile

This is an important graph to pay attention to when preparing for the trail. You can see that this is not simply a straight up trail from Lukla to Gorak Shep.

Along the way you will have many uphills and downhills, making the elevation gain higher than what you may have anticipated.

Note that it does not include acclimatization hikes in both Namche Bazaar and Dingboche, or the hike up Kala Patthar.

4) Day by Day Hiking Stats

Below you can find the day by day statistics for the EBC trek including the elevation of each village, the distance traveled, the elevation gained, and the estimated duration of the hike. It basically just breaks out the numbers chart I put together above.

Everest Base Camp Trek Day 1: Lukla to Phakding

• Duration : 3 Hours
• Distance : 5.1 miles / 8.2 km
• Starting Elevation : 9,318 ft / 2,840 m
• Ending Elevation : 8,563 ft / 2,610 m
• True Elevation Gain : 909 ft / 277 m
• Net Elevation Gain : -755 ft / -230 m

Everest Base Camp Trek Day 2: Phakding to Namche Bazaar

• Duration : 7 Hours
• Distance : 6.8 miles / 10.9 km
• Starting Elevation : 8,563 ft / 2,610 m
• Ending Elevation : 11,286 ft / 3,440 m
• True Elevation Gain : 3,986 ft / 1,125 m
• Net Elevation Gain : 2,723 ft / 830 m

Everest Base Camp Trek Day 3: Namche Bazaar Acclimatization Hike – Hotel Everest View

• Distance : 3.4 miles / 5.4 km
• Starting Elevation : 11,286 ft / 3,440 m
• Ending Elevation : 12,730 ft / 3,880 m
• True Elevation Gain : 1,444 f / 440 m
• Net Elevation Gain : 1,444 f / 440 m

Everest Base Camp Trek Day 4: Namche Bazaar to Tengboche

• Duration : 5 Hours
• Distance : 6.0 miles / 9.6 km
• Ending Elevation : 12,664 ft / 3,860 m
• True Elevation Gain : 2,881 ft / 878 m
• Net Elevation Gain : 1,378 ft / 420 m

Everest Base Camp Trek Day 5: Tengboche to Dingboche

• Duration : 6 Hours
• Distance : 6.5 miles / 10.5 km
• Starting Elevation : 12,664 ft / 3,860 m
• Ending Elevation : 14,469 ft / 4,410 m
• True Elevation Gain : 2,287 ft / 697 m
• Net Elevation Gain : 1,805 ft / 550 m

Everest Base Camp Trek Day 6: Dingboche Acclimatization Hike – Nangkartshang Peak

• Distance : 3.2 miles / 5.1 km
• Starting Elevation : 14,469 ft / 4,410 m
• Ending Elevation : 16,677 ft / 5,083 m
• True Elevation Gain : 2,208 ft / 673 m
• Net Elevation Gain : 2,208 ft / 673 m

Everest Base Camp Trek Day 7: Dingboche to Lobuche

• Distance : 4.9 miles / 7.9 km
• Ending Elevation : 16,109 ft / 4,910 m
• True Elevation Gain : 2,008 ft / 612 m
• Net Elevation Gain : 1,640 ft / 500 m

Everest Base Camp Trek Day 8: Lobuche to Gorak Shep + Everest Base Camp

• Distance : 7.3 miles / 11.7 km
• Starting Elevation : 16,109 ft / 4,910 m
• EBC Elevation : 17,598 ft / 5,364 m
• Ending Elevation : 16,814 ft / 5,125 m
• True Elevation Gain : 1,647 ft / 502 m
• Net Elevation Gain : 1,489 ft / 454 m (Lobuche to EBC)

Hiking Tip: If it is a clear day in the afternoon of day 8 I would recommend switching Everest Base Camp to day 9 and Kala Patthar to day 8 for sunset.

The clouds usually build up as the day goes on which can ruin sunsets over Everest, which is why most people just opt for Kala Patthar on the morning of day 9. If it does happen to be clear though in the afternoon of day 8, then I would opt for the switch.

Everest Base Camp Trek Day 9: Kala Patthar + Gorak Shep to Pheriche

• Duration : 8 Hours
• Distance : 9.4 miles / 15.2 km
• Starting Elevation : 16,814 ft / 5,125 m
• Kala Patthar Elevation : 18,176 ft / 5,540 m
• Ending Elevation : 13,911 ft / 4,240 m
• True Elevation Gain : 1,480 ft / 451 m
• Net Elevation Gain : -2,903 ft / -885 m (Gorak Shep to Pheriche)

Everest Base Camp Trek Day 10: Pheriche to Namche Bazaar

• Distance : 12.1 miles / 19.5 km
• Starting Elevation : 13,911 ft / 4,240 m
• True Elevation Gain : 2,234 ft / 681 m
• Net Elevation Gain : -2,625 ft / -800 m

Everest Base Camp Trek Day 11: Namche Bazaar to Lukla

• Distance : 11.9 miles / 19.1 km
• Ending Elevation : 9,318 ft / 2,840 m
• True Elevation Gain : 2,904 ft / 885 m
• Net Elevation Gain : -1,968 ft / -600 m

Everest Base Camp Trek Total

• Duration : 62 Hours
• Distance : 76.5 miles / 123.1 km
• True Elevation Gain : 23,987 ft / 7,311 m

5) EBC Hiking Packing List

I wanted to finish up this guide with an overview of an Everest Base Camp trek packing list. As you can imagine, due to the length of the trek and the elevation at which it is done at, what you bring along with you is essential.

Below are just some of the items to bring along, but be sure to take a look at the complete Everest Base Camp Trek Packing List for a full overview.

• Hiking Socks: Darn Tough Merino Wool Crew Mens | Darn Tough Merino Wool Crew Womens
• Hiking Pants: Eddie Bauer Men’s Guide Pro Pants   | Eddie Bauer Women’s Guide Pro Pants
• Fleece: Columbia Men’s Ascender Softshell  | Columbia Women’s Kruser Ridge II Softshell
• Rain Jacket: Columbia Men’s Watertight II | Columbia Women’s Arcadia II
• Hiking Shoes: KEEN Men’s Targhee III | KEEN Women’s Targhee III
• Hiking Backpack: Osprey Atmos 65 | Osprey Renn 65
• Trekking Map | NatGeo Waterproof Map
• Solar Power Bank | Anker 20,000mAh Solar Power Bank
• Deodorizing Body Wipes  | Alcala Bamboo Deodorizing Body Wipes

→ If you are thinking about taking part of the trek, be sure to check out the Everest Base Camp Trek Cost breakdown to learn more

I hope you now have a better understanding of the details behind the Everest Base Camp trek and what to expect along the way. If you do have any questions or comments feel free to write them in below.

» You may also want to read the guide to why November is one of the top months to complete the Everest Base Camp trek .

Also be sure to check out the other Nepal itineraries and guides up on the site. Have fun out there and safe travels!

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Horizon Rai

Monday 8th of May 2023

What a detailed informations included. Thanks for this article.

Monday 5th of December 2022

Thank you so much for the detailed article.

Himalayan Exploration

Monday 14th of June 2021

It is really worth reading about the total distance of the Everest Base Camp Trek. Seeking more stories in near future too. Thank you so much for your great article.

How to trek to Everest Base Camp

Jun 20, 2023 • 9 min read

From permits to teahouses, here's everything you need to know about trekking to Everest Base Camp © Mint Images / Getty Images

Top of many people's travel bucket lists, the trek to Everest Base Camp is often the first thing people think about when they start dreaming of a trip to Nepal . 

The walk takes trekkers past Sherpa villages and Tibetan-style monasteries, right up into the heart of the high Himalaya, into a breathtaking world (literally) of iconic glaciers, lakes and the tallest peaks on earth. It's probably the world's most famous trek.

But what is it actually like to trek to Base Camp? Is it something within your capabilities or budget? What should you bring? And, most importantly, can you get a proper coffee en route? 

I just returned from trekking to Everest Base Camp for Lonely Planet's Nepal guide . Here’s what I think you need to know.

What's so great about the Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek anyway?

Firstly, the mountain scenery surrounding the world's highest peak is truly spectacular. The sublime views of Ama Dablam, Pumori, Nuptse and Thamserku peaks are unbeatable and constantly change as you progress along the walk. The Sherpa villages and monasteries are fascinating places to visit and the lodges (called teahouses) are the best in the world. 

The knowledge that you are walking in the expedition footsteps of Hillary, Tenzing, Messner and others is a thrill. Anyone who has read Into Thin Air will be moved by the memorial stupas of Rob Hall, Scott Fischer and others who have lost their lives on the mountain. And then there's the fact that you will have reached the base of the world's highest peak; whether you call it Chomolongma (Tibetan), Sagarmatha (Nepali) or Everest, it’s a rush all the same.

And what’s not so great about the Everest Base Camp trek?

Well, if you force us to play devil's advocate… EBC is one of the busiest trails in Nepal. In the high season months of October and November you'll be walking with thousands of other trekkers, competing with them to get a bed, a lunch order or an airplane seat. There will be lines at checkpoints and even at moments on the trail itself. In bad weather you might be stranded at Lukla airport with hundreds of other trekkers, all trying to get on the first flight out. It's not quite the Zen-like wilderness experience you may have been imagining.

Bear in mind also that even after a solid week of walking, your view of Everest will be partial at best (for infinitely more dramatic Everest views visit the northern Everest Base Camp in Tibet ). If you trek outside of May's expedition weather window you won’t actually find much to see at Base Camp beyond a boulder hastily spray-painted with "Everest Base Camp".

If this has put you off, don’t worry; there are dozens of other fantastic treks in Nepal .

How long does it take to trek to Everest Base Camp?

The walk from the airport at Lukla to Everest Base Camp and back takes a minimum of 15 days. Several of the days are surprisingly short, but this is because you have to figure in time to acclimatize to the high altitudes.

If you can, it's definitely worth adding on a couple of extra days to this basic itinerary. Some of the most dramatic (and least visited) views are from detours off the main trail. I always add two days to visit Thame, two days to visit Chhukung and, if possible, three or four days to visit the lakes of the Gokyo Valley – probably the most beautiful scenery in the Everest region.

Be sure to also budget an extra day or two as a transport buffer. Weather-related flight delays in and out of Lukla are not uncommon (I had to wait six days for a flight to Lukla on my recent trip) so you need some buffer time if heading back for an international flight home.

How challenging is the trek to EBC?

In terms of physical effort, the EBC trek itself is not especially tough. There are only a couple of steep climbs, lasting about an hour each, and most days involve less than four hours of walking.

The thing that makes the EBC trek tough is the altitude. Base Camp is at 5600m (18,373ft) and you will need to spend one or two nights above 5000m (16,404ft). Above 4000m (13,123ft) you are going to feel increasingly lethargic and out of breath as the amount of oxygen in the air decreases. Combine this with the cold, the discomfort of being at altitude and the compounded tiredness from walking for two weeks straight, and you can see why the whole trek experience is definitely a physical challenge.

While you don't need to be an athlete to walk to EBC it is still a good idea to start a fitness regime in the weeks leading up to your trek. You'll enjoy the walk so much more if you are in decent shape.

When is the best time to trek to Everest Base Camp?

October and November bring the best weather and the clearest skies but these are also the most popular months. The second most popular season is April to early May, when spring blooms and expedition traffic bring extra interest to the trail. To avoid the crowds but still enjoy clear views, pack an extra thermal layer and come in December or March.

What can I do to avoid altitude sickness?

The majority of people who fail to reach Base Camp do so because they failed to acclimatize properly to the altitude. It's essential not to gain altitude too quickly by following the recommended overnight stops and limiting your daily altitude gain to a maximum of 400m (1312ft) when above 3000m (9843ft).

Be sure to add in acclimatization days at both Namche Bazaar and Dingboche, during which it's a good idea to hike to higher altitudes during the day, returning to sleep lower at night.

What are the teahouses like?

At lower altitudes the Everest lodges are the most comfortable in Nepal. Private rooms are the norm, many of which have private bathrooms. Showers are available at most places, though the hot water supply can be patchy. All have cozy dining rooms with tables arranged around a central dung-fueled stove. There are even a few luxury lodges along the trail.

In budget lodges, or when you get above Dingboche, things get simpler, with rooms offering little more than a collection of plywood walls, a solar light and a foam mattress. Toilets are a mixture of seats and squatters; sometimes outdoors, always freezing. A blanket is normally supplied but be sure to bring a four-season sleeping bag rated to well below 0°C (32°F).

What's the food like?

Menus in teahouses range from pasta and pizza to spring rolls, fried potatoes and soups, though the most popular meal is a daal bhaat , a set Nepali meal of rice, lentil soup and fried vegetables, normally served with a papad and pickle, and with a refill included. It's the most filling and environmentally sustainable meal you can order.

In villages such as Namche Bazaar and Dingboche you will also find bakery-cafes serving espresso and slices of delicious apple pie, plus shops selling everything from Snickers bars to bottles of beer. This is one trek where you might actually gain weight!

Can I get wi-fi or phone coverage?

Most lodges offer wi-fi, either free of charge or for a few dollars per day (at higher elevations). Above Namche Bazaar you will likely have to buy a scratch card, giving you unlimited data for twelve hours (AirCell) or a specific amount of data over a month (Everestlink). Depending on your network provider you'll likely get data and a phone signal at lower elevations, and possibly even at Everest Base Camp, but not at other high altitudes. So yes, in theory, you can Skype all your friends from Base Camp!

What should I bring?

Warm clothes are a must, and you should pack thermal underwear, a down jacket and fleece hat. Comfortable hiking boots and good, padded socks are also essential. Sun block, a sun hat with a brim and good sunglasses are important against the strong high-altitude light. 

Morale-boosting snacks like chocolate and salami are always helpful, as is a book and smartphone with mapping software like Maps.me. Bring water purification of some sort. If you forget something, don’t worry, you can buy almost anything you might want in Namche Bazaar these days (from ice axes to cans of Pringles), though at prices higher than in Kathmandu .

Do I need a porter and guide?

In terms of finding your way you don't need a guide if you are an experienced walker, as the route is clearly marked and well-trod. A guide can be useful for smoothing your way at teahouses, making sure you get your food on time and helping you pay your bill. It's important not to trek alone, so solo trekkers should find a companion or take a guide or porter.

A porter will carry a bag of around 15kg, freeing you up to pack a few extra chocolate bars and enjoy the walk with little more than a day pack. Not having the strain of carrying a full pack is worth its weight in gold for anyone over the age of 50. Trust me.

How much does the Everest Base Camp trek cost?

For a room in a lodge and three meals a day, figure on US$20–25 per person per day, a bit more if you want a room with a private bathroom and the occasional slice of apple pie. Add on another US$5 every time you want a shower. Figure on an additional US$20 per day for a porter, and US$25–30 for a guide, and budget 10–15% of that fee for an end-of-trip tip.

You'll pay a bit more to have a Kathmandu-based trekking company arrange your entire trek, and a lot more for the convenience and backup of an international trekking tour.

Do I need any permits?

You will need to buy an Everest region permit (US$20) at Lukla, as well as a Sagarmatha National Park entry ticket (US$30) at Monjo. Currently that's all you need.

How can I trek more sustainably?

With 60,000 trekkers and guides headed to the Everest region, it’s important to minimize your impact on the region. Firstly, don't buy bottled water on the trek, as the bottles are nonrecyclable and are a huge problem throughout the region. Bring a system of water purification, like a Lifestraw or Sawyer filter, a Steripen or chemical purification.

Secondly, carry all your trash out (especially batteries), and sign up for the Carry Me Back program, whereby you carry a 1kg bag of trash from Namche Bazaar to Lukla, for it to be recycled in Kathmandu.

Finally, be polite to the Sherpas and porters you meet en route, as well as your fellow trekkers. Walk clockwise around stupas and be respectful at monasteries and shrines.

How do I get to Lukla to start the trek?

Flights run multiple times daily between Kathmandu and Lukla, taking around 30 minutes. During high season however you may have to drive five hours from Kathmandu to Ramechhap airport to catch your Lukla flight there.

It's also possible to fly or drive to Phaplu and walk two days to Lukla from there, or walk from Shivalaya to Lukla in seven days as an excellent pre-trek warm-up.

This article was first published Jan 14, 2013 and updated Jun 20, 2023.

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Everest Base Camp Height: From Sea Level to Summit

Everest Base Camp Height – Have you ever dreamed of trekking to the base camp of the highest peak in the world, Mount Everest? The journey to Everest Base Camp (EBC) is one of the most coveted trekking experiences and for a good reason. Are you ready to take a virtual trek to EBC and discover the height of the Everest base camp?

Everest Base Camp (EBC), located at a height of 5,364 meters (17,598 feet) on the Khumbu glacier’s southern side in Nepal, is the starting point for climbers attempting to summit the highest peak in the world, Mount Everest. The trek to EBC is not only challenging but also one of the most popular trekking routes globally, offering trekkers breathtaking views of the Himalayas and an opportunity to experience the local culture.

Table of Contents

Way to Reach Everest Base Camp

Starting in Lukla town, trekkers take a small plane to Tenzing-Hillary Airport , known as one of the most dangerous airports globally due to its short runway and challenging landing strip. From there, they follow the Dudh Kosi river valley, passing through small Sherpa villages, monasteries, and suspension bridges, before ascending higher. As trekkers move up, the air becomes thinner, and the weather unpredictable, making altitude sickness a real danger. It is vital to acclimatize properly to avoid serious health issues, and rest days in villages such as Namche Bazaar and Dingboche help trekkers acclimate while exploring the surroundings and interacting with locals.

Also Read: An Overview of Everest Base Camp

As trekkers get closer to EBC, the landscape changes dramatically, with mountains becoming more imposing and temperatures dropping significantly. The Khumbu Glacier is a surreal landscape of ice and rock, and it’s easy to feel insignificant in the face of such natural wonders.

Reaching EBC is a significant achievement for trekkers, but it’s only the beginning for climbers who attempt to summit Mount Everest.

Distance from Everest Base Camp to the Summit

The journey from Everest Base Camp (EBC) to the summit of Mount Everest covers approximately 19 kilometers or 11.8 miles. However, the climb is anything but simple, and it’s considered one of the most challenging and perilous climbs in the world.

From EBC, climbers face the daunting task of navigating through the treacherous Khumbu Icefall, a glacier riddled with crevasses and towering ice seracs that can collapse without warning. This section of the climb requires extreme caution to avoid hidden crevasses and the risk of avalanches.

After crossing the icefall, climbers reach Camp 1, situated at an altitude of 6,065 meters or 19,898 feet. From there, they continue their ascent through the Western Cwm, a broad and flat glacier that leads to the base of the steep and icy Lhotse face.

You may also be interested in: Food and Accommodation on Everest Base Camp Trek

Ascending the Lhotse face requires climbers to use fixed ropes and ladders to reach Camp 3, located at an altitude of 7,200 meters or 23,600 feet. From there, climbers follow the narrow ridge of the South Col route, leading to the final push to the summit.

The final section of the climb is the infamous “death zone,” a region above 8,000 meters or 26,000 feet where oxygen levels are so low that staying there for an extended period can be fatal. Climbers must rely on bottled oxygen to breathe and face extremely cold temperatures, high winds, and the risk of altitude sickness.

Base camps are situated at an elevation equivalent to the Everest base camp

There are other base camps in Nepal that sit at the same height as Everest Base Camp , offering an equally exciting and challenging experience. This blog post will provide insights into some of these base camps and what makes them unique.

Annapurna Base Camp (ABC)

If you’re someone who loves adventure and breathtaking scenery, then Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) is a must-visit destination in Nepal. Situated at an elevation of 4,130 meters, this trek is a favorite among travelers from all over the world.

As you embark on this journey, you’ll encounter the stunning beauty of the Nepalese countryside. You will start the trek at Nayapul, and from there, you will traverse a variety of landscapes, including lush forests of rhododendron, bamboo, and oak, and charming villages such as Chomrong, Dovan, and Deurali.

But the real showstopper of this trek is the incredible views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. As you climb higher, the towering peaks will come into view, leaving you in awe of their grandeur.

Reaching the base camp is no easy feat, but the feeling of accomplishment you’ll experience as you stand before the mighty Annapurna will be worth every step. So if you’re up for an unforgettable adventure, put Annapurna Base Camp on your bucket list.

Makalu Base Camp

Makalu Base Camp is a true gem for those seeking a challenging trek in Nepal. At an elevation of 4,870 meters, it’s not for the faint of heart, but the stunning beauty of the Arun Valley makes it all worth it.

The trek will take you through dense forests, roaring rivers, and remote villages, providing an immersive experience of Nepal’s natural and cultural diversity. The trek starts from Tumlingtar and passes through charming villages like Sedua, Tashigaon, and Khongma, each with its own unique charm.

But the real highlight of this trek is the panoramic views of the Makalu mountain range, the fifth highest in the world. As you reach the base camp, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking sight of towering peaks, surrounded by nothing but rugged wilderness.

Make no mistake, this trek is tough and will test your physical and mental stamina. But for those up for the challenge, Makalu Base Camp is an unforgettable journey that will leave you with a profound sense of accomplishment and an appreciation for the raw beauty of the Himalayas.

Cho Oyu Base Camp

Cho Oyu Base Camp is a truly remarkable place, situated high up in the mountains of Nepal at a staggering elevation of 5,150 meters above sea level. It’s actually one of the highest base camps in the entire country, which just goes to show how impressive this place really is. From here, you can take in some of the most awe-inspiring views of the majestic Cho Oyu mountain range, which is the sixth-highest mountain in the world!

The journey to get to this incredible location is not for the faint of heart, as it involves a trek that begins in Tingri and winds through several high passes like Nangpa La. However, the effort is well worth it when you finally arrive at the base camp and are able to bask in the beauty of the surrounding landscape. So, if you’re up for a challenge and want to experience some of the most breathtaking scenery on the planet, Cho Oyu Base Camp should definitely be on your list of must-see destinations.

Dhaulagiri Base Camp

If you’re looking for an adventure in the mountains, the Dhaulagiri Base Camp trek might be just what you need! Situated at an altitude of 4,750 meters, this base camp offers an incredible vantage point from which to gaze upon the majestic Dhaulagiri mountain range. In fact, Dhaulagiri is the seventh-highest mountain in the world, so you’re in for a treat.

But don’t expect an easy stroll – this trek is not for the faint of heart! You’ll be traversing some seriously challenging terrain, including the French Pass and the Dhampus Pass. But the effort is well worth it, as you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain ranges.

The trek starts in Beni and takes you through a number of remote villages, such as Dobang, Italian Base Camp, and ultimately, Dhaulagiri Base Camp. These villages offer a unique glimpse into the daily lives of the people who call this region home, and you’ll get to experience the local culture up close and personal.

Kangchenjunga Base Camp

Kangchenjunga Base Camp is situated at an incredibly high altitude of 5,143 meters, making it one of the loftiest base camps found in Nepal. The trek to reach this destination is an incredible journey that takes you through the stunning Kanchenjunga Conservation Area . This area is known for being the natural habitat of a variety of endangered species, such as the elusive snow leopard and the adorable red panda.

When you reach the base camp, you’ll witness a breathtaking view of the Kangchenjunga mountain range, which holds the recognition of being the third-highest mountain in the world. To embark on this incredible trek, you will begin your journey in Taplejung and make your way through a number of charming villages like Yamphudin, Tortong, and Khambachen. Along the way, you’ll be able to soak in the rich culture of the locals and witness their daily life, adding to the overall experience.

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Ngozumpa Glacier, nestled in the heart of Nepal's Khumbu region, is a remarkable natural wonder. As the longest glacier in the Himalayas, spanning over 26 kilometers, it holds immense significance both ecologically and culturally. Fed by numerous smaller glaciers, it acts as a crucial water source for local communities and sustains diverse flora and fauna. However, like many glaciers worldwide, Ngozumpa is under threat from climate change, with its retreat accelerating in recent years. Its melting poses challenges not only to the delicate mountain ecosystems but also to the livelihoods of those who depend on its waters for survival.If you are planning to visit Nepal Check Out now 4 Days Nepal Package

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Altitude gain on Everest Base Camp trek

The Everest Base Camp trek is a challenging high-altitude and multiday trek. From the start of the trek in alpine forest to the frozen world of base camp, you ascend 2,504 m (8,215 ft) in elevation! Here are some further helpful figures about the trek.

Height of Everest Base Camp

Everest Base Camp (EBC) is 5,364 m (17,598 ft) above sea level. While mountaineers planning to summit Everest generally helicopter into EBC, for most of us the adventure is in trekking to base camp from the town of Lukla. And this is plenty exciting and challenging enough!

Two of Follow Alice trekkers standing atop a helpfully marked rock in EBC

A note: In this blog post we're referring to Nepal's Everest Base Camp. There's another base camp in Tibet. Sometimes, to distinguish between the two, folks refer to Nepal's base camp as South Base Camp, and Tibet's as North Base Camp. (North Base Camp, incidentally, is 5,150 m above sea level.)

Altitude gain on the EBC trek

Altitude gain (or elevation gain) refers to the vertical distance you ascend from the starting point to the 'summit' of a climb. In other words, it's the overall difference in altitude you achieve on a trip.

Elevation map of the Classic EBC trek

As mentioned above, you start the EBC trek in the mountainside town of Lukla, which is 2,860 m (9,383 ft) above sea level. Everest Base Camp is a whopping 5,364 m (17,598 ft) above sea level. That means your altitude gain on the EBC trek is 2,504 m (8,215 ft).

Your altitude gain on the Everest Base Camp trek is 2,504 m (8,215 ft).

You start the EBC trek in Lukla at 2,860 m above sea level

Altitude gain when you add Kala Patthar

Most folks who trek to EBC also climb Kala Patthar, a beastly little climb that affords you a great view of Mt Everest. In fact, Kala Patthar is part of almost every EBC trek itinerary you'll ever see. This is because you can't actually see the peak of Everest from base camp.

The reason we bring this up is that Kala Patthar (which means 'black rock') has a higher elevation than EBC. And so it makes your EBC trek altitude gain that much greater.

Kala Patthar is 5,644 m (18,519 ft) above sea level. If you include it in your itinerary, then your altitude gain for the EBC trek is 2,784 m (9,136 ft).

The addition of Kala Patthar to your EBC trek itinerary ups your altitude gain to 2,784 m (9,136 ft).

In the video below Brendan shares his EBC trek adventure, including how he experienced the ever-increasing altitude ...

There would be a youtube video here.

Daily altitude gains of the EBC trek

Here are the daily altitude gains for the Everest Base Camp trek as per the classic itinerary :

• Day 1 | Lukla to Phakding: No altitude gain
• Day 2 | Phakding to Namche Bazaar: 803 m (2,723 ft)
• Day 3 | Namche Bazaar to Pangboche: 545 m (1,788 ft)
• Day 4 | Pangboche to Dingboche: 425 m (1,394 ft)
• Day 5 | Acclimatisation day
• Day 6 | Dingboche to Lobuche: 590 m (1,936 ft)
• Day 7 | Lobuche to EBC: 414 m (1,358 ft)
• Day 8 | Climb Kala Patthar: 280 m (919 ft)

Note that if you choose to do either one of our other Everest Base Camp itineraries – EBC and Gokyo Lakes or EBC and Three Passes – you don't go any higher than Kala Patthar. This means your overall altitude gain will be the same no matter which Everest Base Camp trek itinerary you choose.

Finally, one more note: we haven't factored rises and dips in the trail into the above figures. If we had, we'd be talking about ascent and descent figures, not altitude gain. And these would be quite different from altitude gain, as there are plenty of rises and dips along the trail, some quite marked.

Further to this, Lukla isn't even the lowest settlement along the trek – Phakding (your first overnight stop of the trail) is over 200 m lower than Lukla. But we've decided to keep things relatively simple, since we find most folks are just interested in learning what their overall altitude gain will be from the start to the highest point of the trek, and so that's what you have here. 🤓

We take a rest day in Namche Bazaar because of the high altitude gain involved the day we reach it

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Elevation of Everest Base Camp

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Everest Base Camp Elevation: What You Need to Know Before You Go

• Jun 24, 2024

Are You Wondering !!! What is Elevation of Mt. Everest Base Camp?

Everest Base Camp Elevation is the most searched word among Everest trekkers. Before heading to the Mt. Everest Base Camp Trek, it is essential to know its related information for a safe and comfortable journey. If you Google How High is Everest Base Camp, the elevation of the Everest Base Camp shows dissimilarity from every source. In fact, it is true that the glacier cannot be stable in one place due to its peripheral surface pressure and underground movement, so the glacier is moving every year. Consequently, the Everest Base Camp also changes every year. The basement of Mt. Everest is called Everest Base Camp, even though the entire basement can’t say Base Camp. Normally, where the Everest Expedition group sets camp is known as Mt. Everest Base Camp.

The Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek is one of the most famous and exciting treks in Nepal. Nestled on the laps of the world’s tallest mountains, this journey leads you through the beautiful Khumbu region toward the foot of the world’s tallest mountain.

Trekkers from all over the world visit EBC to live the dream of witnessing heaven on Earth. Indeed, the Khumbu is a land of mystical beauty. Being a significant part of the Himalayas, the Khumbu region holds pristine natural beauty, diverse geography, and shelters culturally rich communities and marvelous mountains.

The Everest Base Camp Trek is a high-altitude journey. The elevation of the journey begins at 2,860 meters at the Tenzing Hillary airport in Lukla and reaches the highest point at Kala Patthar at 5,643 meters. This trek is moderately strenuous and is suitable for those who have some experience in high-altitude trekking.

If you are planning on doing the EBC trek, you probably have various questions circling your mind. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the EBC trek.

Therefore, the Everest Base Camp elevation can be a little bit up and down every year, and as such, different sources define it accordingly. 

Table of Contents

How high is everest base camp.

You will find altitude at Everest Base Camp (5,360 m/17,585 f) and somewhere else (5,380 m/17,651 f) and maybe find it different than this. The most popular Trek maps indicate Mount Everest Base Camp's elevation as 5,364 meters. In conclusion, the lowest EBC height is 5,360 meters and 5,560 meters is the highest elevation of Mt. Everest Base Camp.

Everest Base Camp Elevation Highlights

Everest Base Camp Trek Elevation Profile:

Everest Base Camp is the main attraction for trekkers to see the amazing glacier, Khumbu Icefall, and the astonishing scenery of snowcapped mountains around you. The Everest Base Camp Hike starts at Lukla, an elevation of 2,840 meters from sea level, after a scenic flight from Kathmandu. Then gaining height every footstep higher and higher to the historic trading point Namche Bazaar (3,440 meters), the Buddhist sacred place Tengboche (3,860 meters), Dingboche (4,410 meters), Lobuche (4,910 meters), Gorak Shep (5,140 meters) and finally getting in your dream destination, Mt. Everest Base Camp. As the Elevation of Everest Base Camp is very high, you need to be well prepared to face any circumstances that may arise while at base camp. It is advised that you wear warm clothes and have enough drinking water while visiting the Everest Base camp.

Here is the Everest Base Camp Elevation Profile:

To get to everest base camp elevation, do we need training and physical fitness.

The elevation of the EBC trek begins from 2,680 meters at Tenzing Hillary Airport and ascends to a maximum elevation of 5,643 meters at Kala Patthar. You will travel above 2,500 meters of elevation during the entire trip. Due to this, you are required to be physically fit to at least a certain extent to complete the trek.

In terms of training for Everest Base Camp Elevation , there aren't many technical aspects to it. However, you must be aware of the elevation of the EBC Trek, the risks, and their controlling measures for a safe and enjoyable trip.

The essential thing to do is to start doing cardiovascular exercises to increase your stamina. You will be covering great distances during the trek. Thus, to avoid getting tired and feeling pain in your legs, cardiovascular exercises can be of great help. Next, you can also practice strengthening exercises. While exercising for strength, make sure to focus on your legs primarily. Some examples of strength exercises are squats, lunges, pushups, sit-ups, etc.

For training, as mentioned above, you do not need technical skills for this trek. However, you should have thorough knowledge about the elevation of the EBC trek and altitude sickness. This is the only training you will need for the Everest Base Camp Trek .

Where is Everest Base Camp located?

Mt. Everest is located in the Everest (Khumbu) region in the northeastern region of Nepal. When someone refers to EBC, there are two locations: South Base Camp and North Base Camp. The South Base Camp lies on the Nepalese side, whereas the North Base Camp lies on the Tibetan Chinese side. The South Base Camp on the Nepalese side is located at an altitude of 5,364 meters (17,598 feet). The geographical coordinates of the location are 28°0′26″N 86°51′34″E.

Everest Base Camp Trek Video:

Can we see the view of everest from the base camp.

No! Unfortunately, you cannot see a clear view of Everest from Everest Base Camp . Many tall mountains block your view of Everest. However, during the journey from Lukla, you get marvelous views of Everest as you are walking towards it. Even further from the base camp, you will be reaching Kala Patthar, the best place to view Everest. You won't regret walking to the Everest Base Camp after seeing its surrounding atmosphere; in every direction, you are surrounded by mountains, and the Base Camp itself is amazing, just near Khumbu Glacier. Likewise, Khumbu Icefall and Glacier Marine. 

Reaching the base camp gives you a feeling of victory standing atop the foot of the world’s tallest mountain. Whereas reaching Kala Patthar gives you outstanding views of Everest and neighboring peaks such as Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Cho Oyu, etc.

Mount Everest Base Camp Trek: Essential Tips and Information for Your Successful Trip on the Base of the World “Mt. Everest 8,848.86m”

Here is a list of some tips that will help make your trip successful. Kindly go through it.

• Experience the Ultimate Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour: A Comprehensive Guide
• Daily Bus and Jeep Service from Kathmandu to Lukl a: Private and Shared Options Available
• 7 Money-Saving Tips to Enhance Your Everest Base Camp Trek Experience
• Experience the Adventure of a Lifetime : The Ultimate Guide to Everest Base Camp Trek in 2023-2024
• 14-Day Everest Base Camp Trek Itinerary : A Step-by-Step Guide for a Memorable Journey
• Unlocking the Secrets of Everest Base Camp Trek : Top 7 Insider Tips You Need to Know
• 30 Mind-Blowing Facts About Mount Everest : Discovering the World's Tallest Mountain
• 15 Essential Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Trek to Mount Everest Base Camp
• Lukla Airport : Your Gateway to the Top of the World Adventure
• Where is Mount Everest Located? Exploring the Geographic Wonder of the World
• The Best Time to Trek to Everest Base Camp : A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Season
• How Much Does an Everest Base Camp Trek Cost? A Breakdown of Expenses and Savings Tips
• Getting to Everest Base Camp : A Comprehensive Guide to Transportation and Routes
• Your Ultimate Everest Base Camp Trek Packing List : Essentials and Recommendations
• Kalapatthar : Experience the Best Views of Mount Everest on Your Trek
• Understanding Flights from Kathmandu to Lukla : Why Departure from Ramechhap is Recommended

How can we get to Mt. Everest Base Camp?

The most popular way to get to EBC is by trekking. But first, to get to EBC, you will need to reach the Khumbu region. The easiest way to reach here is via a flight to Lukla airport . There are also other alternatives, but there is no other direct way to get here. For road travel, you can drive to Phaplu and then trek to Lukla.

From Lukla, you can follow the standard route of the EBC trek, which is: Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, Gorak Shep, and EBC. If you do not have the time to reach here by trekking, you can also opt for a helicopter flight. The EBC helicopter flight will take you directly to Kala Patthar .

Similarly, there is road access near Lukla. So, the jeep can drive to Thamdanda, from where it takes a 4 to 5-hour walk to get to Lukla. If you are looking to escape the Lukla flight, then driving Kathmandu to Lukla by Jeep is the best option. 

The most popular trek in the Everest Region

• Everest Base Camp Trek -14 Days
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• Gokyo Chola Pass Trek -19 Days

Everest Base Camp Trek difficulty due to the elevation of Everest base camp?

The EBC trek is a high-altitude trek. The difficulty of this trek is moderately strenuous. It is suitable for those who have experience in high-altitude trekking. One of the major reasons for the demanding nature of the trek is the altitude. The course of the EBC trek lies in a range of 2,680 meters to 5,545 meters.

Walking long distances during the trek itself is a challenge. However, high altitude also invites various risks. One particular risk is altitude sickness. It is generally perceived that altitude sickness is more likely to happen above 2,500 meters. The EBC trek follows a route above this mark. Therefore, the difficulty level of the journey is elevated due to this risk. Also, you will be walking uphill for the majority of the journey to ascend the altitude. Walking uphill can be strenuous for the legs and tiring.

Everest Base Camp Elevation with Trekking Itinerary

The standard Everest Base Camp trek alone is a 14-day journey. The itinerary of the EBC trek along with the elevation of different places, is as follows:

Day 1: Arrival at Kathmandu, trekking preparation and Permit work.

Day 2: Fly to Lukla (2,680 m) and trek to Phakding (2,700 m)

Day 3: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,400 m)

Day 4: Acclimatization day, hike to Everest View Hotel (optional) (3,962 m)

Day 5: Namche to Tengboche (3,860 m)

Day 6: Tengboche to Dingboche (4,410 m)

Day 7: Acclimatization Day hike to climb to Nangkartshang Peak (5,615 m): 2 Hours.

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

Day 9: Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5,180 m), hike to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m), and night at Gorak Shep

Day 10: Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar (5,545 m) and back to Pheriche (4,210 m)

Day 11: Pheriche to Namche (3,440 m)

Day 12: Namche to Lukla (2,680 m)

Day 13: Flight to Kathmandu

Day 14: Final departure for home destination.

Everest Base Camp Elevation Map Chart

The EBC trek has varying levels. However, the altitude ascends until Kala Patthar and descends after that. Everest Base Camp Trek  1 Day begins at 2,680m and maps towards 2,700m, 3,440m, 3,962m, 3,860m, 4,410m, 4,910m, 5,180m, 5,364m, and 5,545m. From here, it descends towards 4,210 m, 3,440 m, and 2,680 m.

Everest Base Camp Elevation in Meters and feet

Everest Base Camp Elevation in meters is 5,364 meters, and in feet is 17,594 feet above sea level. The Everest Base Camp is the second-highest point of the trek after Kala Patthar.

Everest Base Camp Elevation Gain

The EBC trek begins from 2,680 meters or 8,792 feet, at Lukla and reaches its maximum point at 5,545 meters or 11,283 feet, at Kala Patthar. The total altitude gain is about 2,865 during the entire trip. The average elevation gain during ascending is about 600 meters.

Everest Base Camp Trek: Altitude Sickness

One of the significant safety issues of the EBC trek is altitude sickness. Altitude sickness due to high elevation is a common issue that can be avoided. Altitude sickness is a sickness when the body is not able to adapt to the change in oxygen levels as the altitude increases. The atmosphere of high-altitude regions has a meager oxygen quantity. Thus, while ascending, there is less oxygen for the body to take in.

If you do not follow proper trekking techniques, you might get altitude sickness . Some common symptoms of altitude sickness are nausea or headache, vomiting, loss of appetite, sleeplessness, confusion, disorientation, weakness, swelling of hands and face, and shortness of breath with breathing irregularity. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should immediately inform your partners and seek medical attention.

Altitude sickness has no immediate cure. Thus, descending is the only way to survive. Medicines such as Diamox can help slow down effects, but the results are only temporary. It is better to avoid altitude sickness than to seek its cure. There are various ways you can prevent this sickness.

First, it is crucial that you maintain a good pace that your body can handle. Do not rush while ascending and let the body adapt to the altitude. Taking acclimatization days is very important, as these breaks give your body more time to adjust to the oxygen levels. Staying hydrated, getting enough sleep, consuming enough nutrients, and avoiding alcohol and tobacco are also a few ways to prevent altitude sickness.

If you require any further information regarding Everest, please feel free to Contact Nepal Mother House . Or you may drop your own experience below the comments box as well. We are here for your assistance.

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I hearty welcome to Nepal, known as the Kingdom of Himalayans, and the roof of the World “Mt. Everest.” Nepal has been named a Heaven on Earth and is a wonder in the Himalayan. It is the Shangri-La, a cultural Museum, the Birthplace of the Lord Buddha, and the country of the living Goddess “ Kumari .”

I am Karna Rana Trekking Tour Operator and Mountain Guide, specializing in Trekking , Tour, Travel in Nepal, Hiking in the Himalayan and other Outdoor Activities, Peak Climbing , Expedition, Adventure Trekking , Rafting, etc. applying for my field expiring in 2000. Meanwhile, I have completed my Master’s degree in Rural Development (2016) from the Tribhuvan University of Kathmandu, Nepal’s leading educational institution. I have been applying my field experience in tourism, especially in remote areas of the country, for sustainable eco-tourism for local empowerment. I enjoyed writing my blog own word sharing my travel experience in the Himalayan, aiming to provide the right information and help to the Nepal Traveler.

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Everest Base Camp Trek – 13 Things to Know for Your Trip in 2024

Just a mention of the Everest Base Camp Trek (EBC) in Nepal is usually enough to stir the soul of hikers all over the world. Thousands of aspirational ramblers have gained valuable experience on this Himalayan route. Some see this hike as a rite of passage for all true trekkers. Others go on this trek because it’s a ticket to the soaring roof of the world, where an up-close encounter with the highest summit of all awaits. The Everest Base Camp in Nepal itself sits at an impressive 17,598 feet (5,364m) high, but more on its impressive heights later on.

Whatever your reason for wanting to strike the Everest Base Camp Trek from the bucket list this year or the next, this guide can help in your pursuit. It will run through all the basics of this iconic trekking route between Namche Bazaar and EBC in Nepal, detailing the best time of year to go, what sort of challenges can be expected along the way, what trekking gear you’ll need on such a trip, and so much more. Find answers to the most frequently asked EBC Trek questions here. Dive in!

Our experience on the Everest Base Camp Trek

Like many, we began offering the trek to Everest Base Camp largely because of its reputation as one of the most extraordinary adventures on the planet. As soon as our team set foot on this legendary path we could instantly see why it was the case. Travelers of all stripes, all nationalities, join together on this true Himalayan adventure. The EBC Trek has the feel of a true expedition as you fly into the small airport at Lukla and take your first steps on the wooded trail towards the small village of Namche Bazaar.

For me, Nepal is unlike any country I have visited. On my visit to this culturally rich and diverse nation I felt like I had entered into a new world. With the influences of both Buddhism and Hindi, the capital city of Kathmandu provides a window into the beautiful culture and history of the Nepalese people and bags you to explore more of this remarkable country.

What’s in this guide?

• Where is Everest Base Camp (EBC)?
• History of Everest Base Camp
• How long is the trek to EBC?
• Is it worth it? Things to see & costs
• How hard is the trek? Terrain, elevation, and altitude
• Food on the Everest Base Camp Trek
• Accommodations on Everest Base Camp
• When’s the best time to go? Temperatures & weather
• What gear and equipment should I pack?
• Should I use a porter service?
• Getting there
• Travel visas and permits
• A typical Everest Base Camp Trek itinerary

1. Where is Everest Base Camp (EBC)?

There are actually two base camps for Everest trekking: the North Base Camp in Tibet and the South Base Camp in Nepal. The Nepalese camp in the Khumbu region is the Everest Base Camp that most people talk about, and the endpoint of this legendary trek. It’s tucked away at the end of a long valley that carves through the Himalayas after splitting at the Sherpa village of Dingboche. The formidable Khumbu Icefall – the first obstacle for those attempting a summit push to Everest – begins right on the doorstep of the camp, leading up to the Western Cwm (also known as the Valley of Silence) and the peaks of Lhotse and Nuptse. 

2. History of Everest Base Camp

Climbing on Mount Everest started at the beginning of the 1920s, when a team led by George Mallory (who some think may well have been the first person to reach the summit) came to map out the north face. However, Mallory and his team never established a permanent base camp on their trips, and the north route was all but shut when China invaded Tibet in 1949. 

Then came the conquering expedition of Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay . It took place on the south slopes in Nepal. Hillary and Norgay realized it made more sense to have a place to store supplies at the base of the mountain rather than trek the whole length of the Khumbu Valley whenever they needed gear. Thus, Everest Base Camp was born.

3. How long is the trek to EBC?

The Everest Base Camp Trek may be the single most famous trek in Asia, and arguably the world. Some say its booming popularity is the trek’s own worst enemy, and it’s true that the trail has suffered from overcrowding and some pollution in recent years. However, nothing can take away from the thrilling sense of adventure that comes with climbing towards the edge of the world’s highest peak. That reaches a fever pitch in the early days of your hike, when you’ll catch a jaw-dropping broadside of Mount Everest from a lookout on the south side of Ama Dablam.

Distance 

The rewards of the trek don’t come so easily. EBC is a high-altitude path that requires considerable acclimatization over a good distance. You’ll typically need 12-14 days of full-on trekking (that’s right, your “rest days” involve walking too!) to complete the 80-mile (130km) roundtrip that starts from Lukla. 

This distance is roughly divided into individual daily sections of 8-10 miles (13-16km), but the reason the whole adventure takes so many days is because it needs to be broken down into bite-sized chunks due to the altitude with acclimatization and rest days mixed in. Most itineraries will leave enough time to complete each leg on any given day at well below the average trekking pace. 

Walking times

Most walkers find that they hike a maximum of 8 hours each day, though that can go up a little when you reach the higher altitude sections of the route – not just because of the physical challenge, but because you’ll be stopping often to take in all the breathtaking views! 

4. Is it worth it? Everest Base Camp trip highlights & costs

The joy is in the journey here, as you trek further up to gaze from the roof of the world. Some of the best sightings of the famous Everest arguably come during the Everest Base Camp Trek itself, from various lookout points along the way. These magnificent views combined with mystical monasteries and Sherpa villages offer a host of intriguing trip attractions en route. For me, the best highlights of the trek are:

• Kala Patthar (Kalapathar) – Roughly translates to “Black Rock”. Detour to this soaring lookout point that’s 18,208 feet (5,550m) up on the ridges above Gorak Shep . It’s a real challenge (think a 1,640-feet / 500-meter ascent in 2 hours) but is hailed by many as the best view over Everest, with the Khumbu Icefall crashing through the valley below.

• Gorak Shep (Gorakshep) – A settlement that seems at the end of the world, this tiny town is the heartland of the Sherpa people and sits at the base of Kala Patthar.
• Sagarmatha National Park Museum – You’ll encounter this one very early on in the trek during your rest day in Namche Bazaar. It’s worth the climb to its perch above the village, mainly because the forecourt has incredible views of Everest and Nuptse – your first glimpse of the great mountain. Inside, you can learn all about the unique culture of the Khumbu Sherpa people .

• Tengboche Monastery (Thyangboche Monastery or Dawa Choling Gompa) – The largest Buddhist gompa in the valley of Everest, Tengboche Monastery is a pitstop for determined trekkers bound for the summit. They come to light candles and ask for blessings.

• Nangkar Tsang / Dingboche Viewpoint – Above the town of Dingboche, this detour off the main route is good acclimatization trekking and offers a panorama that takes in the Khumbu Glacier and the whole Imja Khola Valley. 

With so much natural beauty to be experienced, how much will it set you back? When it comes to pricing, costs of the Everest Base Camp Trek can range widely but the best all-inclusive tour packages start at around US$4,295 (including domestic flights to/from the trek start point) . If this number is giving you sticker shock, don’t let it deter you from the trip of a lifetime to Nepal, because my team at The Explorer’s Passage is always here to work with you and your preferences to craft a trip that fits your needs .

5. How hard is the trek? Terrain, elevation, and altitude

So just how difficult is the trek to Everest Base Camp? To answer this, you’ll have to consider the terrain and heights of EBC. Your physical fitness also plays a factor in the perceived difficulty of this adventure. Based on our Trip Activity Level Guide , we classify this trek as an advanced level, but you may be glad to know that no technical training or mountaineering experience is required. 

Not sure if this Himalayan adventure is right for you? Contact us and we’ll walk you through details on the physical demands, recommended training, and more so you can make an informed decision.

The Everest Base Camp hike graduates from the alpine surroundings at the south end of the Sagarmatha National Park to the scree-covered ridges of ancient moraines in the final push towards the trekking finish line. The first sections are easier in terms of terrain but more difficult because they are constantly steep. You’ll notice this in the ascent from Lukla to Namche Bazaar, and then again from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche. The path there is largely shaded by pine and ironwood forests, muddy when wet but also interspersed with rocks wedged into the ground. You’ll stroll across suspension bridges to cross most rivers.

After the first few days of your trip, you’ll see that the trekking path levels a little as it skirts a wide, flat valley with the mighty Himalayas looming on all sides. This is where you lose the tree cover for good, so be sure to have the sunscreen handy. It’s rock and grit underfoot until you near Gorak Shep. There, the route sort of merges with the great pebble and rock moraine at the end of the Khumbu Icefall. It’s normal to find snow coverage in those parts, especially if you’re trekking between November and March.  

Elevation and altitude

How high is Everest Base Camp? Well, altitude is commonly travelers’ biggest challenge on this tall trek. As mentioned before, you’re going to have to clock up a hefty 17,598 feet (5,364m) above sea level. You’ll manage 9,400 feet (2,865m) at the EBC trailhead, which is taken care of by the flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. The rest is up to your legs. You’ll knock out about 1,800 feet (549m) by climbing to Namche Bazaar. After that, days on the trail (not including acclimatization days) average around 1,200-1,600 feet (366-488m) in elevation gain, though it’s on less-steep paths once you cross the tree line around Tengboche. Everest Base Camp elevation is no joke and can be difficult for some. 

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) – the mildest form of altitude sickness – is certainly a risk here. It can affect anyone over altitudes of 8,000 feet (2,438m), but usually has severe impacts at higher levels. Since the EBC Trek reaches altitudes of more than double the height where AMS can possibly kick in, there are usually two full acclimatization days planned in – one in Namche Bazaar and the another in Dingboche or Lobuche. These days aren’t for resting but instead used to climb high and then descend to sleep at lower altitudes, a common practice that’s known to help the body acclimate to conditions at higher elevations.  

Don’t be surprised if your Everest Base Camp Trek guide constantly reminds you to drink enough water as it’s another way to combat AMS. Once you hit the higher altitude parts of the path, you can typically expect your guide to be prepared with a supply of oxygen, should you need it. You might also want to consider packing an AMS medication like Diamox on your trip to Nepal. 

Even seasoned alpinists find the trip a challenge and lots of climbers struggle with Acute Mountain Sickness. Just remember: no pain, no gain on this most incredible of trails! On this trip, you’ll see the sheer majesty of the Nepalese Himalayas up close and scale to viewpoints that are simply some of the best you’ll ever hike to.

6. Food on the Everest Base Camp Trek

All that trekking is going to work up a serious appetite, you can be sure of that. Thankfully, EBC teahouses tout some decent grub for when it’s time to refuel. Don’t be surprised to find that the menus are virtually identical the whole way along, even if the dishes themselves vary greatly with the whims of different chefs up and down the trip route.

Common dishes include:

• Dal bhat – The most popular EBC meal of all. Every hiker who’s done the route has warmed up with this spicy lentil stew at least once. It’s usually served with rice and chapati flatbread.
• Egg and fries – A hearty option for those feeling really hungry, this one includes hand-cut, fried potatoes and a double-egg omelette.
• Shyakpa ( Sherpa stew ) – A classic favorite of sherpas in Nepal and a great vegetarian option that’s basically broth with cut potatoes, carrots, and other root vegetables.
• Pizza – Some teahouses try their hand at pizza. We’ll let you be the judge of whether or not the Italians would be proud.  

Is your mouth watering yet? These dishes will surely give you the energy you need to power through the trek.

7. Accommodations on Everest Base Camp

Apart from the hotels in Kathmandu at the start and at the end of your quest, all of your accommodations on the Everest Base Camp Trek route are likely to be teahouses. Don’t let the name fool you – these aren’t just places to stop for a hot drink. They’re actually full-fledged bed and breakfast lodges purposely designed to host travelers. 

EBC teahouse accommodations in Nepal are simple, clean, and comfortable. The general rule is that the quality is better towards the start of the trek, where the teahouses are both larger and better supplied. Rooms are usually minimally decorated. They have wood-paneled or plastered walls and, for the most part, a single window, along with low-rise beds with foam mattress pads. Some have in-room heating, while other teahouses are warmed by a central stove that’s kept alight in the evenings. Some places offer hot showers, but most only offer cold. Electrical charging of devices is on offer at most places, though that could come at an extra cost. 

For more details on accommodations, check out our Everest Base Camp tour page .

8. Best time to trek to Everest Base Camp

There are two main seasons for trekking to Everest Base Camp in Nepal. The first is in the spring (late March to May) and the second comes in the autumn (late September to November) . Both high seasons essentially straddle the main monsoon season, offering more dryness and clearer skies without too much precipitation. Although, it’s important to note that zero rain can never be guaranteed this high up.

Here’s a breakdown of the best months to go:

• March – Marks the beginning of the trekking season proper but it’s not its peak. That means a good balance of smaller crowds, availability in teahouses and affordability. Most of the ground snow has melted by this point, but rising temperatures do mean there can be some heat haze to obscure the views.
• April – The busiest time of all on the Mount Everest Base Camp Trek, but for good reason: Clear skies abound, the views are wonderful, and temperatures are comfortable. You can also come in April if you’re keen to see the hardcore mountaineers prepping for a summit push up Mount Everest itself.
• May – The hottest month on the trail with less harsh conditions in the evening. Downsides include heat haze that can obstruct the views and the potential for some early-monsoon rains.
• September – The first month after the monsoon can see some rains stick around. However, that also means the lower-altitude parts of the trek between Lukla and Namche Bazaar are wonderfully lush with flower blooms and vivid greenery.
• October – Second only to April in terms of crowds of travelers. Lots of people hit the EBC trail at this time because there’s a great balance between comfortable temperatures and clear skies. In fact, I’d say that this is the clearest time of all, so it’s perfect for those wanting uninterrupted views of Everest.
• November – Cold winter conditions can start to set in by November. It’s not unusual to encounter snow at higher altitudes and you’ll need proper thermal gear to get through the nights. The payoff is super-clear skies and way fewer hikers on the trail.

December to February is the low season for one main reason: Snow. Temperatures during these colder days drop to an average of 25 degrees fahrenheit (-4℃) in the middle of the winter season, and that’s in Namche Bazaar, one of the lowest points on the trek. It’s not ideal for overnight hikes that rely on teahouses made of plywood walls. That said however, completing the EBC certainly isn’t impossible at this time, it just presents unique challenges. You’ll need way more thermal layering, special trekking equipment to handle the snowdrifts, and probably extra days to complete the trek. The upside is that winter days offer very clear skies and there’s rarely a big crowd on the trail. 

9. What gear and equipment should I pack?

When considering what to pack for your trip, it’s good to know there are strict limits on the weight each passenger can take on that initial flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. What’s more, there are limits on the size and weight of bags that you can ask porters to shuttle up and back to EBC for you. Due to these limits, you’ll want to think very carefully about what to bring for this once-in-a-lifetime trek. As a general rule, it’s good to stick to about 22-33 pounds (10-15kg) in your main pack, with a small 30-litre day pack on the side to carry the things you’ll need on the trail.

Layers are always key in the Nepalese mountains, as temperatures can warm up considerably during the day and drop suddenly at night. You’ll want to be able to add and remove fleeces and thermals on the upper body to match the fluctuating temperatures. For the lower body, I’d recommend bringing both shorts (mainly for the lower elevations of the trek where it can be positively balmy) and sturdy trekking pants (for higher elevations), backed up by good thermal-rated underlayers.

Waterproofs are also essential for your trip. Rain and snowfall can come without warning in the high Himalayas, and weather patterns on the EBC Trek have little respect for the so-called high season, so inclement weather can happen any time of the year. Winter trekkers will need to plan a little more, though, in order to deal with all that ground ice and much colder conditions.

On top of that, you’ll need to think about all those hiking essentials. Good boots, a pair of hiking poles you feel comfortable with, both a wool hat and a sun hat, strong sweat-resistant sunscreen, headlamps, and a decent-capacity water bottle should all be on your packing list. 

That’s just scratching the surface, but The Explorer’s Passage will make sure you’re fully prepared for your chosen season on the EBC route when you plan with us – just ask us for a full packing list !

10. Should I use a porter service?

Put simply, porters are essential on the trek to Everest Base Camp. They’re very much the superheroes of the expedition, transporting the bulk of most trekkers’ gear and equipment from camp to camp outside of Lukla or Namche Bazaar. For larger groups of trekkers, some operators will utilize animal support for transport assistance. Porters will carry one standard rucksack or duffle bag per hiker. Usually, that’s limited to a weight of between 22-33 pounds (10-15kg) per person, though it can be lower or higher depending on the Everest Base Camp tour you pick. That leaves you to only carry what you need for the day. As mentioned above, a 30-litre pack typically works best, just enough for water, snacks, fleece and waterproof layers, your camera, and sunscreen. 

I do, occasionally, see people who choose not to engage a porter but that’s a tough task. Ultimately, when you’re deciding whether or not porter service is right for you, remember that the Mt. Everest Base Camp hike involves several days of walking at altitudes over 12,000 feet (3,658m) above sea level, on tricky terrain to boot. It’s a challenge even without 44 pounds (20kg) of gear strapped to your back! 

11. Getting there

So now you know what this infamous excursion holds and you can’t wait another moment to go, how will you get there? The trip to the start of EBC is a journey in itself. You’ll first jet into Kathmandu, the heady, rickshaw-rattling capital of Nepal. It’s an amazing place, filled with UNESCO temples and the aromatic spices of Nepalese curry houses. We usually recommend that travelers arrive at least a couple of days before they are due to set off for the trek, not really to help with altitude acclimatization – Kathmandu is a relatively modest 4,500 feet (1,372m) up – but more for cultural acclimatization.

Doing that means you’ll have time to score any last-minute gear you might have forgotten for the hike itself. Kathmandu has plenty of decent outfitters that offer good deals on key items like down sleeping bags and thermals. It also means you’ll get to see some of the great cultural treasures of the country, including the tower-topped temples of Durbar Square and the colossal Boudhanath Stupa, which is usually writhed in prayer flags dancing in the wind.

After Kathmandu, there’s a short-haul flight from the domestic terminal of Kathmandu Airport that takes you all the way to the trailhead of Everest Base Camp in Lukla. The plane ride is relatively quick – about 30 minutes total – and pretty spine-tingling, especially as the landing strip on the Lukla side sits a whopping 9,300 feet (2,835 meters) above sea level on a precipitous mountain plateau. It’s not a flight you’ll forget in a hurry!

12. Travel visas and permits

Some nationals of specific countries can enter Nepal without a visa, but most travelers will require one. For those who do, entry visas for tourists traveling into Nepal are generally available in advance or upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport and various land borders. If you’re unsure of which category you fall into, use this easy tool to double check your entry and health requirements .

When it comes to permits, there are no permits for the Everest Base Camp Trek itself, at least not like there are for the Inca Trail and some other bucket-list hikes elsewhere on the planet. However, there are limits to the number of guests teahouses can host (so it’s important to book early) and you will be passing through some regions and conservation areas that require visitors to obtain special passes, but no need to worry as The Explorer’s Passage will handle all of these details for you. Just make sure your travel documents and essentials are still valid.

For the route to Everest Base Camp from Lukla, there are two key documents that we will secure for you:

• Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit – This is a pass for access to the whole Khumbu region.
• Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit – This is your pass to enter the national park that contains Mt. Everest. 

It is important to note, those looking to do the longer, 20-day extension to the EBC Trek, going from Kathmandu by road and then onwards by foot from Jiri, will also need a pass for access to the Gaurishankar Conservation Area. 

13. A typical Everest Base Camp Trek itinerary

The temple-topped, bazaar-busting city of Kathmandu is likely to be where you enter Nepal. You’ll definitely want to take some time out of your trip to explore this amazing city first. Then, it’s time to head northeast to start your Everest Base Camp hike. Most travelers do that with a flight to Lukla and then walk from there, but it’s also possible to trek all the way if you have the time. Still, most Everest Base Camp Trek itineraries officially start at Lukla airport.

For a customized itinerary, connect with us to craft your ideal trip.

• Day 1: Namaste and welcome to Kathmandu! Get ready to experience one of the most awe-inspiring journeys our planet has to offer. You’ll arrive in Kathmandu and explore the dynamism, scenery, and history the city has to offer.
• Day 2: Today will be filled with cultural immersion. Begin by exploring three UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The first is Boudhanath, one of the largest stupas in Nepal. Next is Pashupatinath, a sacred Hindu temple located on the banks of the Bagmati River. Finally, you’ll visit Durbar Square, which sits in front of the old royal palace. Finish your day with one of the most classic walks through the old narrow streets of Kathmandu. In the heart of this city, soak up the buzzing atmosphere of the local markets and stores, before heading back to the hotel.

• Day 3: Kathmandu to Phakding (8,562 ft / 2,610 m) – After a short flight to Lukla, it’s a pleasant hike through dense pine forests and steep gorges traversed by swinging suspension bridges. There’s a real bustle about this part of the path, with oodles of hikers fresh onto the trail to chat to. It’s also the lushest part of the trail, with wildflowers and roaring riverways, more Alps than Himalaya.

• Day 4: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (11,286 ft / 3,440 m) – Today you’ll go up to the main hub of EBC: Namche Bazaar. This is a good place to stock up on any essentials you may have forgotten to bring on your trip. Enjoy the town that’s abuzz with hiker cafes and lodges, and comes with stunning views of the jagged Mount Khumbu Yül-Lha (Khumbila), loosely translated as “God of Khumbu” peak, to the north.
• Day 5: Namche Bazaar (11,286 ft / 3,440 m) – This is your first official acclimatization day. The best way to prepare for the altitude is to hike high during the day and return to lower altitudes in the evening to sleep. The Khunde and Khumjung Loop is the perfect option for that, taking you to long-lost Sherpa villages with mystical Buddhist stupas.

• Day 6: Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (12,664 ft / 3,860 m) – Your first steps on the Everest Base Camp Trek proper begin with a steep incline that takes you almost out of the treeline. The path levels and then emerges into a lunar-like world of big brown rocks where the Himalayas draw ever closer. The destination? The rhododendron forest, where you’ll stay for the evening.   
• Day 7: Tengboche to Dingboche (14,470 ft / 4,410 m) – Expect exposed trekking except for some sections through high-altitude pine woods. Later in the day, the trail wiggles across the sides of Ama Dablam peak and you’ll get to appreciate the Everest massif in all its glory looming overhead.

• Day 8: Dingboche (14,470 ft / 4,410 m) – A second acclimatization day is needed at this stage of the trip. Perhapstake some time to experience Chukhung (15,518 feet / 4,730 meters), a place traditionally used to raise yak. Lodges rise up amongst the peaks, making it a perfect spot for relaxation, observation and absorbing the scenery and local life.

• Day 9: Dingboche to Lobuche (16,210 ft / 4,941 m) – You’re now onto the penultimate push towards Everest Base Camp. Welcome to the high Himalayas. Trees are long gone in this land of rugged rocks and the cascading tongues of glaciers. The day includes some amazing visions of the approaching Everest massif, especially the closer face of Nuptse.
• Day 10: Lobuche to Everest Base Camp (17,598 ft / 5,364 m) – The final part of the trail starts by weaving over rocky highland terrain and then passes through the Gorak Shep village, where a small trekking lodge clutches the edge of the Khumbu Icefall. There’s a chance of a small rest there, but not for long, because EBC is only another 1.5 hours up the valley!

• Day 11: Everest Base Camp to Pheriche (14,340 ft / 4,371 m) – Today you’ll retrace your steps towards Pheriche, hiking first towards Kala Patthar. Oxygen begins to increase and much of this portion is downhill, and you’ll have the chance to take in the panoramic views with an easier trek.
• Day 12: Pheriche to Debouche (12,533 ft / 3,820 m) – You’ll work back via Deboche, passing the Old Nunnery. Follow the river back towards Debouche, a campsite, not far from the Tengboche Monastery.
• Day 13: Debouche to Namche Bazaar (11,286 ft / 3,440 m) – Today you’ll double back towards Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa village that is the hub of activity and local culture. Here you’ll see many porters like Norgay, who aid climbers and know this terrain better than anyone. Observe the local mountain life, as you continue on tomorrow towards Phakding.

• Day 14: Namche Bazaar to Phakding (8,562 ft / 2,610 m) – As you continue downhill towards Phakding, observe the local agriculture and yak pastures as you pass by the majesty of the Himalayan peaks. You’ll spend the evening alongside the Dudh Kosi River, and take in the sights and sounds of the crystalline waters.

• Day 15: Phakding to Lukla – From Phakding, you’ll make our approach towards Lukla. Gather your new memories from the trip and enjoy your last days amongst unparalleled natural views in Nepal. You’ll stop for lunch in Lukla, with plenty of time to appreciate the clear landscape.
• Day 16: Lukla to Kathmandu – Returning to Kathmandu, you’ll have time and space to explore after having a chance to refresh and recuperate in your hotel. The Thamel district is a great place to wander with its many winding streets lined with souvenir shops, bars, restaurants, and more. There’s plenty to see and to try on the final day of your trip in Kathmandu. Soak up as much of the city’s offerings as you can as the end of our trip approaches.

• Day 17: Today is your final day as an intrepid traveler exploring Nepal. You might have time to see some live music in Lazimpat or venture to Patan, which was originally known as Lalitpur, or the “City of Beauty”. Stop off at Newa Chen to add a visit to a 350-year-old Newari home, restored to its former glory and open to the public, to your trip. Be sure to experience as much of Kathmandu as you can, before you reluctantly head back home from this exhilarating adventure trip!

• Day 18: Depart from Kathmandu. Today you’ll return home having retraced many of Hillary and Norgay’s historic steps. You’re officially one of the lucky few who have witnessed the majesty of Everest up close!

Other Variations of the EBC Trek

The main up-and-back EBC Trek outlined above is by far the most popular route to the fabled camp on the slopes of Mount Everest, but there are also other options. Take the Three Passes Trek. It’s a circular romp that encompasses a trio of the highest traversable passes immediately around Everest itself, starting with Kongma La (18,175 feet) before pushing on through Cho La (17,782 feet) and then Renjo La (17,585 feet).

This is a considerably more challenging undertaking than the classic Everest Base Camp Trek, usually reserved for hikers with high-altitude experience. The reason? You spend multiple days walking at heights of over 16,400 feet. There’s also more chance you’ll have to contend with snowpacks – especially late and early in the main trekking seasons (April and November). The reward is a chance to explore all the nooks and crannies of the Khumbu Region, with visions of the gleaming Gokyo Lakes and remote Sherpa hill villages along the way.

Other variations include the dedicated Gokyo Lakes Trek, which involves portions of the Three Passes Trek at Cho La to offer a fuller visit of the Gokyo Valley before re-joining the route to base camp at Lobuche.

This trip guide is just a taste of what you should know before embarking on the remarkable trek to Everest Base Camp. For more details on general trip costs, accommodations, and more, check out the specifics on our Everest Base Camp tour page .

Better yet, if you have more questions on hiking to Everest Base Camp or need help planning your trip to the Himalayas, let’s connect! Our knowledgeable Adventure Consultants would love to hear from you so contact us and let us show you what’s possible .

Why travel with The Explorer’s Passage?

Experience the Everest Base Camp Trek with the best tour operator in Nepal. Our guides have been leading adventure trips in the Himalayas for over 30 years and are experts of trekking to Mount Everest Base Camp. They are also native to the Khumbu region of Nepal, the home of the Sherpa community, so you know you’ll enjoy an authentic experience.

We pride ourselves on delivering extraordinary tours based on travelers’ needs and are humbled by our guests’ testimonials . In fact, our dedication has earned us a 5-star rating on Tripadvisor , and awards by Travel+Leisure Magazine and Newsweek. Check us out and discover why so many travelers worldwide choose us . My team and I would love for you to join us on the trek to Everest Base Camp or any of our many other adventure trips !

I hope to go exploring with you soon!

Jeff Bonaldi Founder & CEO The Explorer’s Passage

About Jeff Bonaldi

Jeff Bonaldi is the Founder and CEO of The Explorer’s Passage, a premier adventure travel company. His mission is to provide travelers with the opportunity to transform their lives and the planet through the power of adventure.

Learn more about Jeff’s story and his company HERE .

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Everest Base Camp Trek

Kathmandu |

Kathmandu | Nepal

Max Altitude

Trekking Km

Get in Touch with Our Trek Expert

67000 /person $ /person.

• September-2024
• October-2024
• November-2024
•  USD 1500 +5% GST for Non-Indians and OCI card holders
• +5% GST (Goods and Services Tax)
• Services from Kathmandu to Kathmandu.
• Lukla flight, Food & Stay in Kathmandu included.

Offload 5300

Backpack offload is optional

Choose add-ons during booking. If missed, log in and add them later.

Book off-load at least 10 days before the trek.

For offline bookings at the base camp, a convenience fee of Rs. 6500 applies.

Cancellations made before the trip date will receive a full refund.

For more information. Please complete this form.

Trek Name: Everest Base Camp Trek

Adventure Type: Trekking

Base Camp: Kathmandu

Season: Summer | Autumn |

Month: March | April | May | September | October | November |

Country: Nepal

Altitude: 18200 Ft.

Grade: Difficult

Rail Head: Kathmandu is not connected to any Railways

Stay: Hotel and teahouse

Food: Meals while on trek & at Hotel/Guesthouse (Veg & Eggs)

Location: Kathmandu

Distance: 112 Km.

Trail Type: Circle trail | Camping in various locations, starting and ending at the same point.

AirPort: Kathmandu (Tribhuvan International Airport)

EBC - The Base of World's Highest Peak

The Everest Base Camp Trek (EBC) trek is one of the world's most iconic and lifetime trekking experiences. Located in the Khumbu region of Nepal , the trek provides a view of the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest. It is at an altitude of 18200 ft. and if you get the chance to trek to see the mighty Everest, take a moment to think for a lifetime adventure and then move forward with all your steps with us, as here we are to provide you the way and only you can give yourself the chance!

Why Everest Base Camp Trek is a Must-Do Trek?

When it comes to trekking in the Himalayas, Mt. Everest is the most celebrated peak not just in our country but all across the globe. For avid trekkers and mountaineers, getting up close to the highest mountain peak in the world is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. This classic trek takes place in the Bagmati Zone of Nepal and allows you to experience the immense beauty of the surroundings. Along your trek, you will get to witness 4 of the 6 highest mountain peaks in the world — Cho Oyu (8,201 m), Mt. Makalu (8,470 m), Mt. Lhotse (8,516 m), and Mt. Everest (8,848 m) .

Everest Base Camp Trek is a teahouse trek, which means you will stay at some of the highest villages in the world and get a close look at their cultures and traditions, and life in the remote corners of the Himalayas. Staying at the Sherpa villages you will get to learn a lot about the mountain lifestyle and how inextricably the people are connected to the mountains. There are many notable junctures throughout the trek and Kala Patthar is one such point. Standing at an altitude of 5,500 m it offers an astonishing view of Mt. Everest . EBC trek presents a wonderful opportunity to experience the grandeur of the Himalayas, the imposing challenge and thrill of the climb, and the charming culture of Nepal.

Trekking in Nepal is all about trekking amidst the biggest mountain ranges and on this trek, you will see mountains surrounding you. All along the way, you can feel the sense of legacy left behind by the greatest mountaineers. Crossing the route beyond Namche Bazaar, you will come across, Tenzing Norgay Stupa, a tribute to the great mountaineer, who was the first to scale Mt. Everest along with fellow mountaineer Edmund Hillary. Also, just near Dughla on Everest highway, there are memorials for distinguished mountaineers who dedicated their lives on the slopes.

Reaching Everest Base Camp means trekking through the traditional Sherpa villages , with warm and friendly villagers, hidden Gompas, picturesque mountain views, and exceptional natural beauty. Those who take part in such a trek will never forget the amazing experience.

Best time for Everest Base Camp Trek

There are two seasons to visit Everest Base Camp:

Summer and Autumn. To be considerate, the best months are March, April, May, September, October, and November . In these periods the weather conditions are at best and the views of the mountains are clear. During your trek, you will get to stay at Teahouses. The simple wooden houses are designed to provide warmth in the low temperatures.

Get yourself ready for the 2 weeks journey. A journey that can be covered with at least 13-15 days. The trekkers arrive at Kathmandu and then the journey proceeds through the key destinations: Lukla , Phakding, Namche Bazaar , Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, Gorakshep, Everest Base Camp, and finally Kala Patthar by covering to and fro distance of 112 kilometers.

About The Trek

Your journey will start at Kathmandu from where you will take a short flight to Lukla. The iconic trek starts at Lukla in the southern part and the trail weaves towards Namche Bazaar in the north. We will stay a day here, acclimatizing to the higher altitudes. It then diverges in the northeast direction towards Pheriche and Dingboche. Once we reach Dingboche, we will spend a day at Dingboche as a rest day. From Dingboche, the route continues to Lobuche. Everest Base Camp is a little further east from here and the Kala Patthar viewpoint can be seen towards the west.

There are other variations to the trek route as well, where the trek bifurcates towards Gyoko Ri early on at Namche Bazaar. The route then follows the left side to arrive at the Base Camp. Sometimes people also prefer trekking from Jiri village instead of Lukla, Jiri is a short bus ride away from Kathmandu. However, trekking from Jiri adds a couple of days to the trek as Jiri is considerably further away from Lukla. The EBC trek follows a gradual ascent up to the base camp, following which there is a steep descent. The entire journey lasts for 13 days and in between, we also have acclimatization days as well.

What Can You Expect At The Trek

It is a difficult grade trek. Trekking to the Everest Base Camp requires exceptionally high physical fitness and while the trek is not dangerous, you need to prepare well for it. A variety of factors add to the difficulty of the trek like the terrain, the duration of the trek, the distance covered every day, and the number of days spent at high altitude and a difficult exit in case of emergencies. While all trek is not especially tricky but it is surely an endurance test.

It is a high altitude trek and as such chances of AMS are quite high but with adequate hydration, proper rest, and a well-planned itinerary taking into consideration the acclimatization criteria will help counter such issues. Our trek leaders are mountaineering-certified individuals with a keen understanding of AMS and other high-altitude issues. They can detect the signs of AMS early on and adopt necessary measures for the prevention of the same. Our Trek Leaders are also all Wilderness First Aid Responders, who are diligent in handling emergencies.

The trek from Lukla to Everest Base Camp Trek  is 50 km and it takes 13 days to complete the trek starting from Kathmandu. To mitigate the risks of being at a higher altitude for such a long time, we have incorporated acclimatization and rest days in the itinerary. Mt. Everest can be spotted multiple times on the trek even in the initial part of the trial.

In cold conditions, batteries drain pretty quickly be it phones, cameras, or Kindles. Make sure to bring spare batteries with you. Some teahouses allow you to charge your phone and other electronics but they will charge you for it.

Be prepared for extreme weather conditions as the weather at high altitudes is unpredictable. Layer properly to regulate your body temperature and stay comfortable while trekking. When its sunny, the weather can get quite warm and you may even have to discard a couple of layers in the first few days of trekking, however, the temperature at night drops pretty quickly. Make sure to drink a lot of water to stay hydrated and avoid altitude sickness. Also, remember that sunburn happens much quicker at higher altitudes so always wear sunscreen and keep your sunglasses ready.

Accommodations at Everest Base Camp Trek  will be in teahouses in Sherpa villages or mountain lodges. Also, keep enough cash with you as there are no ATMs in Lukla. Also, if you want to do some last-minute shopping for trekking gear and equipment, Kathmandu is a good place to do so.

What is the Difficulty Level of EBC Trek

The Everest Base Camp trek is difficult as it is at a high altitude. The EBC height is 18,200 ft. Although the trekking journey is comfortable due to the higher altitude one needs preparation. We welcome first-time trekkers also, but fitness requirements and preparation are a must.

The trek takes around 13-15 days, including acclimatization days, which can be physically demanding. A variety of factors add to the difficulty of the trek like the terrain, the duration of the trek, the distance covered every day, and the number of days spent at high altitude and a difficult exit in case of emergencies. While all trekking is not especially tricky, it is surely an endurance test.

As it is a high altitude trek and chances of AMS are quite high but with adequate hydration, proper rest, and a well-planned itinerary taking into consideration the acclimatization criteria will help counter such issues. Our trek leaders are mountaineering-certified individuals with a keen understanding of AMS and other high-altitude issues. They can detect the signs of AMS early on and adopt necessary measures for the prevention of the same. Our trek leaders are also all Wilderness First Aid Responders, who are diligent in handling emergencies.

Weather conditions and Temperature at EBC Trek

In the higher altitudes, the weather keeps changing and can be unpredictable. With cold temperatures, especially at higher altitudes, snow, and rain can be mostly expected.

The temperature at Everest Base Camp (EBC) in the Summer Months the day is pleasant, around 15-16 degrees Celsius, and at night, it is 0 to -2 and -3 degrees Celsius. In Autumn months the temperature is -7 degrees Celsius and sometimes even lower.

• Who can Participate
• Important Links
• How to Reach
• Trek Essential

Who Can Participate

• Age; 15 years.
• Experience of any high altitude trek, at least 1 treks of 4,000m/13,100ft.
• The climber must be fit and have sufficient stamina to cover 6 km of distance in 35 minutes without stress.
• The climber should be able to carry a 12-16 kg backpack.

Arrive At Kathmandu

• Altitude: 1,400 m/ 4.600 ft.
• Spend the day exploring Kathmandu.
• A short briefing session in the evening.
• Stay in a hotel (included in cost).

Welcome to trekkers’ paradise, Nepal. Nepal is characterized by beautiful Himalayan summits, rich natural biodiversity, and beautiful culture and history. Once you arrive at Kathmandu airport, you can take a taxi to the booked hotel in Kathmandu. There are loads of taxis available at the airport and you can easily find one to drop you off at the hotel. Once you check in to the hotel, you can freshen up, and in the evening, you will receive a briefing session where you will learn about the trek and your schedule for the upcoming days. If you have any questions about the trek, then you can clear them at the time of the briefing session. Post the briefing session, you can explore Kathmandu and do some last-minute gear and equipment shopping if you want.

Note that, from April 2019 most flights have been diverted to Ramechhap airport due to construction and crowding at Kathmandu Airport. Ramechhap is a small Airport Ramecchap in Manthali and 4 hrs drive away from Kathmandu. In this case, your flight will be booked for the next day. So take an early night flight to Kathmandu and get ready to leave Kathmandu City by 1 o’clock so that you can take an early morning flight from Ramechhap airport.

Fly to Lukla, Trek To Phakding | Enjoy A Scenic Flight Journey

• Altitude: Lukla - 2,850 m/ 9,350 ft | Phakding - 2,600 m/ 8,500 ft.
• Trek Distance(Lukla to Phakding): 7 km | 4-5 hrs.
• Altitude Gain: 1200 m/ 3,900 ft.
• Early morning flight to Lukla (30 minutes).
• Easy and gradual descent.
• Cheplung village lies en route from where you can see Mt. Khumbila.
• You can buy or refill your water bottles from teahouses on the way.

Get ready for a beautiful flight from kathmandu or ramechap to Lukla. Its a short flight of about 35 minutes that will take you over a panoramic landscape. On these flights, the planes are quite small but the journey is quite scenic. Our representatives will meet you at Lukla airport and this is where your trek towards Everest Base Camp starts.

After arriving at Lukla, we will start our trek towards Phakding after some refreshments. The trail is 9 km long and passes through Nepali mountain villages, green mountains, suspension bridges, and forests to Phakding. It takes about 4 to 5 hrs to complete the trek. From Lukla, the trek begins with a gradual ascent, with a few ups and downs along the way. Along the route, you will witness amazing views of Kusum-Kanguru as you cross a suspension bridge on your way. After a short climb, you will arrive at Ghat Village and after another one and a half hours of gradual walking, you will arrive at Phkading. En route, you will also spot boulders that are carved with Buddhist Prayers. We will stay overnight in Phakding.

Phakding To Namche Bazaar | A Major Trading Hub In Khumbu

• Altitude: 3,450 m/ 11,300 ft
• Trek Distance:  10 km | 7 hrs.
• Altitude Gain: 850 m/ 2,800 ft.
• Moderate level of climb and steep climb before Namche Bazaar.
• Namche Bazaar is the capital of the Khumbu region.
• You will get the first views of Mt. Everest today.
• You will spot Kongderei and Thamserku Peak.
• Monjo village is the mid-point of the trek.
• A Swiss suspension bridge on the Dudhkosi River. It is one of the major attractions.
• Dudhkosi River is considered the lifeline of the Khumbu Region.
• Today you will enter the Sagarmatha National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site).

Post breakfast, we will start our trek toward Namche Bazaar. The route today is surrounded by green mountains and will take you through suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi and Bhote Koshi rivers. Before entering the Sagarmatha National Park, you will have to obtain permits and then the trail follows a steep ascent before arriving at Namche Bazaar. Namche Bazaar is an important trading hub of the Khumbu region.

We will start our trek early in the morning from Phakding and soon you will cross a suspension bridge over the Dudh Koshi River, the walk from here is easy and pleasant with short uphill and downhill climbs. You will cross another suspension bridge over the Bhote-Koshi River. It is a busy area and you may notice a multitude of trekkers and porters here. After a 20-minute climb from this area, you will arrive at Monjo. Monjo is a pit stop for many trekkers and many people also camp here. At Monjo, you will see interesting watermills that are used to grind barley, a staple diet of the Sherpas. Monjo is situated right below the majestic Thermasarkhu peak (6,608 m) and quite close to this village is the entrance to the Sagarmatha National Park.

Treading along the Dudh Koshi River, you will arrive at the Sagarmatha National Park. At this point, your trekking permit will be checked and the officials will keep a record of all the trekkers going ahead. Sagarmatha is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases stunning mountain views and rich biodiversity. Here, you may spot rare Himalayan species like snow leopards and the lesser panda. The presence of Sherpa settlements with their unique culture makes the trek even more interesting. A gradual walk from Sagarmatha National Park will lead you to Namche Bazaar. From Namche Bazaar, you will catch the first glimpses of Mt. Everest. Namche Bazaar is a historic trading center of the Khumbu area and you can stock up on essentials from this point. At night we will stay here at a guesthouse.

Acclimatization Day | Explore Namche Bazaar

Wake up to the beautiful views of the highest Himalayan peaks and enjoy a delicious breakfast. Today we will stay in Namche Bazaar allowing our bodies to acclimatize to high altitudes. You can spend the day exploring the surroundings and enjoy the culture and hospitality of Nepal. Namche Bazaar is a commercial hub so you can do any last-minute trek shopping from here. The market has a vibrant atmosphere and there are a couple of restaurants and coffee shops as well.

You can do a short hike to Sagarmatha National Park headquarters.  From here, you can get a good view of Ama Dablam, Mt. Everest, and other Khumbu peaks. Sherpa Cultural Museum is close by and lies just above Namche Bazaar. The museum gives you a fair amount of details about the history of the Himalayas, the geographic and cultural aspects, mountaineering history, and information about the various flora and fauna in the region. You will see many pictures of Tenzing Norgay and Edmund Hillary from their climb and maps detailing their trails as well. In the evening, take acclimatization walks around the market, preparing your body for higher altitudes. Soak in the Nepalese Buddhist culture, food, and traditions.  Namche Bazaar gained popularity during the time when Tibetan salt was traded for grains from Nepal\\s lowlands. Nowadays, you can see a roaring trade of rugs, clothing, dried meat, and salt in the village center. There are many shops that also offer locally made handicraft items, you can buy them as souvenirs or gifts for your friends and families. You will stay the night at a guesthouse in Namche Bazaar.

Namche Bazaar To Tengboche | Visit The Largest Buddhist Monastery Of Khumbu

• Altitude: 3,850 m/ 12,650 ft.
• Altitude Gain: 400 m/ 1,350 ft.
• Trek Distance: 11 km | 5 - 6 hrs.
• Mixed ascent till Phunki Tenga.
• Steep ascent after Phunki Tenga to Tengboche.
• Tengboche has the biggest monastery in the area.
• You can attend a prayer ceremony held by the monks to invoke protection on your expedition.
• Cross another high bridge at the village of Phunki Tenga.

Start your day with a delicious breakfast and get ready for your trek to Tengboche from Namche Bazaar. It’s an 8 km long trail and is a fairly easy trek accompanied by the views of the majestic Himalayas. You will also spot Himalayan Wildlife on the way as well.

Tengboche is a small alpine valley that is situated at an altitude of 3860 m and the trek starts with an easy walk. The trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche is extremely beautiful and along your trek, you will get a bird’s eye view of Dudh Koshi River down below and the epic mountain views as Thamserku (6,608 m), Kantega (6,782 m), Ama Dablam (6,812 m), Lhotse (8,516 m) and Everest (8,849 m) comes into view.

A 20-minute walk from Namche Bazaar will take you to the top of Namche Bazaar. From here the trek descends to Khumjung, a Sherpa village and then climbs up the sides of the mountains through some stairs and then diverges from the Everest Highway at Sanasa. You will be able to catch glimpses of Lhotse, Nuptse, and Mt. Everest from here. This is probably the best view of Mt. Everest you will get until you reach Gorakshep when climbing to Kala Patthar. Two hours of pleasant walking will bring you to Sanasa. Up to Sanasa, it is a walk-through forest covered with Oak and Rhododendrons. It is a great location for bird watching and you may spot the Danphe Pheasant, the national bird of Nepal. Musk-deer and Himalayan Tahr, a Himalayan goat that looks like an antelope are commonly spotted in these areas. You will also spot the Tengboche monastery from here which you will reach in the later part of your trek.

Next, following a gradual descent, you will reach the Imajtse River at Phungitenga at an altitude of 3,250 meters. Phunki Tenga is a small Himalayan settlement with teahouses and army posts.  The climb down can be a little tougher as the terrain is rocky and uneven. You will reach a suspension bridge over the river and after you make the crossing, you will need to get permits at a checkpoint to proceed further in your trek. From here it is a strenuous climb of about an hour that will take you to a Buddhist monastery just before Tengboche and finally to Tengboche village. This is the last part of today’s trek and you can expect the trail to be rocky with a couple of switchbacks. Don’t push yourself too hard, take it slow and steady as you make your trek uphill.

Tengboche Monastery, locally known as Dawa Choling Gompa is the largest monastery in the Khumbu region. It overlooks the beautiful region and the mountain landscapes around it. There are daily prayers that occur around 7:00 am and once around 3:30 pm. You can take part in the prayers if you truly want a cultural experience. It is one of the important cultural aspects of the EBC Trek. Enjoy the serenity at this revered place of worship and night your stay will be in the guesthouses at Tengboche.

Tengboche To Dingboche | Stunning Views Of Ama Dablam

• Altitude: 4,350 m/ 14,250 ft.
• Altitude Gain: 500 m/ 1,600 ft.
• Trek Distance: 12 km | 6-7 hrs.
• Gradual descent and a little bit of ascent after Lobuche River to Dingboche.
• The trail passes through lush forests of birch, conifer, and Rhododendron trees.
• The route offers amazing views of Ama Dablam standing over you.
• The trail crosses the Imja River to reach Pangboche.
• Continue along the Imja Valley and Lobuche River before ascending to Dingboche.

Today, we will begin our trek towards Dingboche. From Tengboche, cross bridges and rivers accompanied by beautiful mountain views to Dingboche. Stone steps will lead you through forests of Rhododendrons, conifers, and birches, and at the bottom of the forest lies the Deboche village. From here, the trail rises and enters into the alpine meadows and Dingboche. Dingboche is the only place in the entire Khumbu region where barley is grown. The views of the Himalayas are amazing from Dingboche. Start your trek from Tengboche and walk towards Pangboche Village, you will get to see some beautiful views of Mt. Ama Dablam and from Pangboche we will trek towards Pheriche and to Imja Valley. The beautiful Lobuche River passes through Imja Valley and from here a steep hike will take you to Dingboche. The trek takes about 6 to 7 hrs and for the most part, the difficulty is moderate.

At the beginning of the trail, you will first descend into a forest trail passing the small settlement of Deboche. As you trek from Tengboche to Dingboche, the scenery changes as you gain altitude, greenery slowly giving way to barren landscapes, and the trails gradually becoming more rugged and it will also start getting cold and windy. In the initial part of the trek, you will pass by a wall with stone inscriptions and a small stream will keep you company along the trail. You will have to cross the stream to the left-hand side of the valley. The majestic Ama Dablam dominates the skyline ahead of you. About two hours into the trek, you will arrive at Pangboche, a mountain village, where you get beautiful views of Mt. Everest. From Pangboche, you will hike upwards towards the valley, and throughout the trek, you will slowly gain elevation. Although the trek is mostly uphill, the slope is relatively easy without extremely steep inclines. Ama Dablam continues to stay in view, however, you will only get to see a tiny sliver of the top of Mt. Everest. Lhotse and Nuptse become quite prominent now.

Soon you will arrive at the village of Shomare, your last village before Dingboche. Ama Dablam remains in view but now you will get to see a different angle of the mountain from what you have seen before. The trail continues winding to the valley side and you will cross another river before entering Dingboche village. Dingboche is a lovely Himalayan hamlet and you will see agricultural fields protected by stone walls. Once at the village, we will check into a guesthouse and we will stay the night in the guesthouse.

Dingboche (Rest Day) | Acclimatize To Higher Altitudes

Today is a rest day at Dingboche, which will help us acclimatize to the high altitude. As we exert a good deal of energy on the trek, our body needs to get accustomed to less oxygen at higher elevations. So instead of taking a rest day, if continue to gain elevation it can result in altitude sicknesses like dizziness, nausea, and headache or potentially even more dangerous conditions like cerebral or pulmonary edema. To prevent these issues, we start our acclimatization process at the 11,500 ft mark. Since Namche Bazaar is quite near that elevation, we start our acclimatization process from Namche Bazaar itself.

For acclimatization, you can walk around the village. Dingboche village has many farms and crop fields sparse across the village, native crops include barley, potatoes, and buckwheat. You can also do a short hike around the village to Chukung. Its a 3 - 5 hrs trek that takes you to an altitude of 4,730 m. Chukung lies in the Imjatse Valley towards the east. Although the trek is gradual you can feel the effects of thinning air. Chukung has a couple of teahouses as well and you get a superb view of the surrounding areas from here. Some of the views are exceptionally beautiful as you continue to climb higher and higher. Explore the valley and the surrounding areas, return back to the guesthouse. This hike will prepare your body for the next few days at higher altitudes.

Dingboche To Lobuche | Pay Your Respects In Everest Memorial

• Altitude: 4,950 m/ 16,200 ft.
• Trek Distance: 6 km | Duration: 4-5 hrs.
• Altitude Gain: 600 m/ 1,950 ft.
• Tricky climb on moraine and rocky terrain.
• You can visit the memorial shrine.
• The top of the ridge is filled with prayer flags and stones which are memorial shrines for climbers who lost their lives on Mt. Everest.
• As you cross Khumbu Glacier, you will see Mt. Nuptse (7,861 m).

Today’s walk will take you from Dingboche to Lobuche through alpine pastures and in the summertime, you can see Yaks grazing in these pastures. You will trek towards the end of the moraine of the Khumbu Glacier offering spectacular views of Mt. Nuptse. At the moraine, you will see stone monuments, these are dedicated to six Sherpas who died in an avalanche along with monuments dedicated to other mountaineers. From here, it’s a steep climb towards Lobuche where you will get a magnificent view of Mt. Nuptse and the sunset over this mountain peak is even more spectacular. From Dingboche, you will have to ascend a small ridge behind the village, towards the north you can see Lobuche Peak (6119 m) and the snowfields of Cho La. Later you will cross Khumbu Khola, the huge glacier moraines of the Khumbu Glacier flowing from Everest. Crossing the memorial cairns, and following the valley stream, you will arrive at Lobuche in the early afternoon. The 6 hrs trek covers 7 km and brings us much closer to the Everest Base Camp.

Start the hike from Dingboche along the inclined path running alongside the mountain’s wall and go further into the valley. As you make your turn along the path and inside the valley, you arrive at the village of Pheriche, we will be staying here on our way back from the base camp. For the next 2 to 2.5 hrs, you will follow into the valley, while the incline is not very difficult but you are at a high altitude, so take it slow and steady and avoid using too much energy too quickly. A river lies in front of you and crossing the river, you will arrive at the village of Thukla. This is a great spot to rest for a couple of minutes, refuel yourself and continue on the trek.

The next part is going to be the toughest part of the trek today as you climb to Lobuche. The climb takes you along a zig-zag path all the way to the Thukla Pass and it becomes steeper and steeper as you climb until you reach the edge of the Khumbu Glacier and the Everest Memorial.  The oxygen gets less and less from here and the temperature also starts to get lower. The remaining part of the trek follows the left side of the glacier as you reach the village of Lobuche and you will also gain a little elevation from the glacier as you arrive at Lobuche. In front of you, you get to see a beautiful view of Nuptse in front of you. Lobuche is a small Himalayan village with only a handful of teahouses. We will stay the night here before we head out to the last village on the trek tomorrow.

Lobuche To Gorakshep | Excursion To Everest Base Camp

• Altitude: Gorakshep - 5,150 m/ 16,900 ft | Everest Base camp - 5,350 m/ 17,700 ft.
• Altitude Gain: 200 m/ 800 ft.
• Lobuche To Gorakshep : 6 km | 3-4 hrs.
• Gorakshep To EBC : 3 km away each | 3hrs.
• It’s Everest Base Camp Day Today.
• Good steep climb to Gorakshep.
• It takes about 3 to 4 hrs to reach Gorakshep.
• Lunch is at Gorak Shep.
• A steeper climb to Everest Base Camp.
• The trek to Everest Base Camp is not very difficult.
• Trekker's stop point is just below the actual base camp. 
• Most tour groups are not allowed to enter or stay in EBC.
• Make sure you carry your day pack since you will need water.
• You can enjoy amazing views of Nuptse, Khumbutse, and Pumori mountains from the base camp.
• Overnight stay in Gorakshep.

Note: Drinking water in Gorakshep is chargeable. We don’t include drinking water on the trek which you can buy from a number of places between $1 to $3 a bottle (it gets more expensive towards the base camp). The better alternative is to buy water tablets in Kathmandu/Pokhara for around $2 and treat the water.

Today is the most exciting day of the trek as you make an excursion to the Everest Base Camp. An adventurous journey and a great trekking experience await you. Waking up early, have your breakfast, and gear yourself up. We will follow the trail from Lobuche through narrow gaps in the mountains and glacial moraines along the Khumbu glacier to Gorak Shep, the last village on the trek. Post lunch in Gorak Shep, we begin our trek to the Everest Base Camp, the ultimate adventure of this entire journey. We follow the lead of Sherpas as the trail changes every season as the glaciers move. It takes about 7 hrs of walking to reach Everest Base Camp. Spend some time at the base camp, celebrate your victory, capture some stills, and descend back to Gorakshep. Overnight stay will be at Gorakshep.

The trek today can be broken down into two parts, the first part is the trek from Lobuche to Gorakshep and the second part is an excursion to EBC and back to Gorakshep. After breakfast at Lobuche campsite, we begin our trek towards Gorakshep. It is a 6 km hike that takes about 4 hrs. Walking along the sandy and rocky parts, you will gradually gain elevation as you walk alongside the Khumbu Glacier. Mt. Nuptse looms on the horizon in front of you. Some sections of the trail are a little steeper than others. On the way, you will pass Sherpa flag monuments indicating that you are getting closer to the Everest Base Camp.

The last section of the trail directs into a glacier before you reach Gorak Shep. the terrain is rocky and uneven with inclines and declines. Be cautious and watch your step in this part and always pay heed to the trek leader's advice to complete the patch safely. You can see a sliver of the top of Mt. Everest from here, right behind Nuptse. Soon the village of Gorak Shep comes into view guarded by Kala Patthar and Pumori in the back. Make your way into the guest house have some lunch, reenergize yourself and get ready for the next part of the trek.

From Gorak Shep, you will walk right along the Khumbu Glacier, the Everest Range lies right behind it. It is a vast glacier and as you continue walking along the side of the glacier, you will constantly gain elevation until you reach the base camp. The incline is not very steep and is slightly moderate. A technical terrain lays ahead of you with a mixture of sand and rocks and it can get pretty slippery at some points as well. As long as you watch your steps, you will be good. Continue on and you will reach a point where the Khumbu icefall comes into better view as it winds down from the mountain to the valley. More Sherpa prayer flags mark the way to the base camp. In the final stretch of the trail, you will see numerous prayer flags flowing in the wind and the popular Everest Base Camp Rock. You have made it to the Base Camp, congratulations! While this is not the actual base camp, it is a trekker’s base camp. Most tour groups are not allowed to enter or stay in EBC. Once you have had enough time to enjoy the area around EBC, it is time to head back to Gorakshep. Follow the rocky trail back to Gorak Shep. We will stay the night in Gorak Shep.

Hike To Kalapatthar And Retreat Trek To Pangboche | Enjoy Arresting Views Of Mt. Everest

• Altitude: Kalapatthar - 5,550 m/ 18,200 ft | Pangboche - 4,000 m/ 13,100 ft.
• Gorakshep To Kalapatthar: 2 km each way | 3 - 4 hrs.
• Gorakshep To Pangboche: 19 km | 7-8 hrs.
• Altitude Loss: 1,150 m/ 3,800 ft
• Steep climb to Kalapatthar (difficult).
• Gradual descent to Pangboche.
• Start early in the morning to avoid early morning clouds.
• Kala Patthar is the rocky hilltop below Pumori.
• Views from the summit: Everest, South Col, Lhotse, Makalu, Khumbu Glacier & icefall, Pumori & Everest Base Camp.
• Breakfast at Gorakshep after the Kalapatthar hike.

After your trek to EBC and back to Gorakshep, you are now ready to climb Kala Patthar. Gorakshep is also a good place to roam around, it has a couple of teahouses and it also used to be the base camp for climbing Mt. Everest in the 1950s. The trek starts with an easy walk from Gorakshep and you will be walking on sandy fields. After this, there is a steep climb of 45 minutes. After the strenuous climb, you will come to level fields and the walk is easy and gradual. You will have the comfort of walking for the next one hour, post which there is another steep climb to Kalapatthar for about half an hour. Mt. Everest from this point looks closer than you can imagine. From here, you will trek down to Pangboche.

Start your day early and leave your stuff at Gorakshep, only carry a daypack with the essentials as you will return to Gorakshep. As you cross the sandy trail and begin ascending, you will notice the Gorakshep village and Khumbu Glacier behind you including Ama Dablam. The top of Mt. Everest begins to peek out above the surrounding mountain ranges. The more you gain altitude the more Mt. Everest will come into view. The best part of today’s trek is that all along the trek you can enjoy the landscape of the surroundings and not just on the summit. The higher you get, the rockier and trickier the trail gets. Be mindful and watch your steps. The last patch is especially rocky.

The summit is a little difficult to navigate as well. You will know you are near the summit when the Sherpa prayer flags and weather reading device come into view. Take your time and dont rush to the summit to avoid any accidents. Once you reach the summit, you will get to see the breathtaking views of the entire Sagarmatha National Park but the main attraction is of course Mt. Everest itself. You will get the best view of Mt. Everest from here. Below Everest lies the Khumbu icefall that feeds into the Khumbu Glacier and to the right is the face of Mt. Nuptse. On the opposite side of the lake, you will see even more glaciers, lakes, and mountains, as far as your eyes can see. After spending some time at the top, descend the same path that you came in. When you are back in Gorakshep have a nice meal and refuel yourself as we will descend to Pangboche.

On the trek down, the first village will be Lobuche and throughout the trek, you will again be alongside the Khumbu Glacier. You have already completed this section while ascending up so you now have an idea of what to expect. The trek is a little tricky till Sagarmatha National Park sprawls out in front of you and the rest of the part is manageable. You can have some snacks at Lobuche before heading down to Pangboche.

As you descend, you will come to the intersection where one path diverges towards Dzonghla village, Cho la pass, and Gyoko Ri, and the one on the left heads towards Pangboche. Stay on the left side of the trail and you will come across another difficult patch of the trek. You will head down from the moraine wall of the Khumbu Glacier and descend to the Thukla Pass. Crossing the Everest Memorial, begin a tricky hike down to the river below and soon you will arrive at Pangboche.

Pheriche lies just below Dingboche so after crossing Thukla, you can take the lower path towards Pheriche instead of taking the higher path towards Dingboche. Once we arrive at Pangboche, you will check into a teahouse, have your dinner, and rest for the night before heading down to Namche Bazaar the next day.

Pangboche To Namche Bazaar | Buy Some Souvenirs

• Altitude: 3,450 m/ 11,300 ft.
• Trek Distance: 14 km | 6 - 7 hrs.
• Altitude Loss:  550 m/ 1,800 ft.
• Moderately, continuous descent and short ascent just before Namche Bazaar.

After your descent to Namche Bazaar, the cumbersome part of the trekking is almost over. From here on the descent will be easy after having the Everest Base Camp trek. But we recommend starting early as it is a long walk. Start the journey by heading down to the village, across the river, and again climbing back up the valley wall. You can rest here for some time, and catch your breath before resuming your decline down the valley. 

Once you have declined the path, you will cross a suspension bridge followed by a 2 km incline along the valley wall. As you zig-zag up towards the trail, it becomes forested and once you have completed the uphill ascent, it is a fairly smooth walk for the remaining 5 km to Namche Bazaar. The path to Namche Bazaar is etched on a valley wall and there’s the river below. Soon the path bends inwards and you are welcomed with views of Namche Bazaar. Descend down to the village below and check into a teahouse. Rest well. Tomorrow will be the last day of your trek.

Namche Bazaar To Phakding To Lukla | Last Day Of Trekking

• Altitude: Phakding - 2,600 m/ 8,500 ft, Lukla - 2,850 m/ 9,350 ft.
• Altitude Loss: 600 m/ 1,950 ft.
• Trek Distance: 16 km | 7 - 8 hrs.
• Moderate, continuous descent till Phkading and gradual ascent to Lukla.
• Start your trek early in the morning as it is a long day trek.
• Stop at Phakding for lunch.
• Stay in Lukla.

Waking up to the lovely weather at Namche Bazaar, you can visit the place and roam around a little bit. You can explore the market and buy souvenirs from your trip to the Everest Base Camp and buy gifts for your friends and family. There are several local handicraft stores in Namche Bazaar as it is the biggest trade hub in the Khumbu region. You can also take a small walk-in around the Sagarmatha National Park and enjoy the local cuisine as well. Post which treks down to Phakding, it is an easy trek down to the village. The beauty of the distant mountains with several waterfalls adds to the beauty of your journey. This is the beauty of Nepal trekking, there will be a few uphill climbs but you will manage it very easily. The lush green beauty and forests will take your pain away. After this easy walk, you will reach Lukla. This will be your last day with the Sherpas and other crew members, so you would like to enjoy the day with a delicious dinner and a few drinks.

Right at the beginning of the trek, you will begin to lose elevation, after about 45 minutes of walking, you will arrive at a rest stop, the same that you came in on when ascending towards the basecamp. This is where you will get the last glimpses of Mt. Everest. After this point, there are no mountain views anymore only little peeks from behind the forest covers. You will cross a few suspension bridges and continue alongside the river as the initial steep decline eases into a more moderate decline. While most of the trek is downhill, there are a few uphill climbs as well. Pass by Sherpa stones into the village of Phakding. You are more than halfway to Lukla by now. We will stop at Phakding for lunch before descending further down the valley with river views, mountain ridges, and suspension bridges. You will also have several stair sections and an incline path all the way through. Passing by a few more villages, you will arrive at Lukla, your final stop for the day.

Fly Back To Kathmandu | Bid Adieu To The Mountains

• Morning flight to Kathmandu.
• Your trek to Everest Base Camp is over.
• Spend the day in Kathmandu or fly back to your onwards destination.
• Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu is included in the cost.

Note:  Weather conditions may cause flight cancellations. Delays are possible any time of the year but are more typical on summer departures. Keep one or two buffer days.

Today you will have to wake up early as flights to Kathmandu are generally scheduled in the morning. This is because during the daytime, the weather is generally windy and there might be a delay in the flight timings. However, you can expect a slight delay in your early morning flight as well if the weather is not suitable. As you make your way through the security checks and your flight takes off from Lukla airport, you will have a magnanimous view of the surroundings. Drive back to Kathmandu from Ramechhap Airport and overnight stay in a hotel. You can book your further journey from here. We wish you a great journey towards your home with lots of memories.

Day-1: Arrive At Kathmandu

• Altitude(Kathmandu): 1,400 m/ 4.600 ft.

Day-2: Fly to Lukla, Trek To Phakding | Enjoy A Scenic Flight Journey

• Altitude : Lukla - 2,850 m/ 9,350 ft | Phakding: - 2,600 m/ 8,500 ft.

Note: Flights to Lukla are prone to delay due to weather, keep two or three buffer days in your plan.

Day-3: Phakding To Namche Bazaar | A Major Trading Hub In Khumbu

• Trek Distance: 10 km | 7 hrs.

Day-4: Acclimatization Day | Explore Namche Bazaar

• Today is acclimatization day.
• You can hike up to Sherpa Cultural Museum to get a view of Everest and Ama Dablam.
• It’s worth exploring the town, a good place to buy trekking gear.
• ATMs, internet cafes, shops, and restaurants are available at extra cost.
• Stay in the guesthouse.

Day-5: Namche Bazaar To Tengboche | Visit The Largest Buddhist Monastery Of Khumbu

Day-6: tengboche to dingboche | stunning views of ama dablam, day-7: dingboche (rest day) | acclimatize to higher altitudes.

• Rest Day helps you acclimatize well to high altitudes.
• A small hike today will show you the world’s six tallest peaks including Lhotse (8,516 m), Makalu (8,463 m), and Cho Oyu (8,188 m).
• From another location, you can see the Imja Khola Valley and Dingboche Valley.

Day-8: Dingboche To Lobuche | Pay Your Respects In Everest Memorial

• Trek Distance: 6 km | 4-5 hrs.

Day-9: Lobuche To Gorakshep | Excursion To Everest Base Camp

• Gorakshep To EBC : 3 km each way | 3hrs.

Day-10: Hike To Kalapatthar And Retreat Trek To Pangboche | Enjoy Arresting Views Of Mt. Everest

Day-11: pangboche to namche bazaar | buy some souvenirs, day-12: namche bazaar to phakding to lukla | last day of trekking.

• Altitude: Phakding - 2,600 m/ 8,500 ft | Lukla - 2,850 m/ 9,350 ft.

Day-13: Fly Back To Kathmandu | Bid Adieu To The Mountains

Note: Weather conditions may cause flight cancellations. Delays are possible any time of the year but are more typical on summer departures. Keep one or two buffer days.

Pulse rate at rest must be in between (60 to 90 beats per minute).

Blood Pressure Reading must be in between (DIASTOLIC 70 – 90, SYSTOLIC 100 - 140 mm Hg).

Respiratory rate at rest must be in between (12 to 20 breaths per minute).

Should not have Liver and kidney issues.

Should not have Diabetes Mellitus, Bronchial Asthma, Heart problems, Hypertension, etc.

No pacemaker implant.

People with Sinus issues, Epilepsy please contact to trek coordinator before booking the trek.

If your BMI is not normal, Please contact our Trek coordinator before Trek booking.

        Medical & Disclaimer Form (Mandatory Documents) Click here to download Medical & Disclaimer Form

• Government Employees can avail the benefit of Special Casual Leave (SCL) when they join us for a trekking expedition. As per the rules of the Pay Commission, Special Casual Leave can be availed for up to 30 days in a calendar year for trekking/mountaineering expeditions through a registered organization. Trek The Himalayas is a registered adventure tour operator by the Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF) and the Ministry Of Tourism (MOT).
• Trekkers have to apply for leave at least 20 days before the trek departure date.
• This service is exclusive to Indian government employees and is applicable only for treks within India.
• Do mail at info@trekthehimalayas to apply and mention your booked trek date and trek name.

Junior trekkers (below 15 years) should have a company of parents/guardians.

Trekkers between 15 to 18 years can come solo with the disclaimer form signed by parent/guardian.

• Medical & Disclaimer Form (Mandatory Documents) Click here to download Medical & Disclaimer Form

Exercise For Difficult

Fitness Regime For:

Calculate Your Bmi

Your BMI value is

Congratulations, your body is in good conditions!

Medical & Disclaimer Form (Mandatory Documents)  Click Here.

How To Reach

Pick-up information.

• It is essential for everyone to arrive at Kathmandu (1:00 pm). 
• Upon booking the trek, you are required to come to our hotel. Your trek coordinator will provide you with details such as the name of the Kathmandu hotel, its location, and the contact person's number.

Options to Reach Kathmandu

The best way is to fly to Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport, which receives airlines mostly from South-east Asia and Europe. A number of direct flights fly from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangalore and Varanasi to Kathmandu. Popular airlines that operate regularly are Jet Airways, Air India, IndiGo and Nepal Airlines.

Delhi to Kathmandu by train + bus 

• Day 1: Take a train from Delhi to Gorakhpur. The Vaishali Express leaves Delhi at around 19:45 and arrives at Gorakhpur Junction at 09:10 next morning, or there's another train from New Delhi at 17:20 arriving Gorakhpur at 06:35 next morning. The fare is around Rs. 2440 (£35 or $54) in AC1, Rs. 1240 (£18 or $27) in AC2, Rs. 785 (£12 or $18) in AC3 or Rs. 315 in Sleeper Class - check current times and fares at www.indianrail.gov.in or www.irctc.co.in.
• Day 2: Take a bus or jeep from Gorakhpur to the Nepalese frontier at Sunauli (Indian side) and Bhairawa (Nepalese side, often also called Sunauli). Journey time about 3 hours, Rs. 55 (£1 or $2).

3. Walk across the frontier, it's then a few minutes’ walk to the Bhairawa bus station. Take a bus or jeep on to Kathmandu. Buses take 9 to 12 hours, cost about 120 Nepalese Rupees or 230 Indian Rupees (£1 or $2). There are many buses daily, either daytime buses leaving regularly until about 11:00 or overnight buses leaving regularly from about 16:00 until 19:00. Indian rupees may be accepted here in Bhairawa, but not further into Nepal.

4. It's also possible to travel via Varanasi An overnight train links Delhi & Varanasi. Buses link Varanasi with the Nepalese border.  

Drop-Off Information

• For your return journey from Kathmandu, you have the flexibility to choose between road or air transport options. Please note that our services extend only to the hotel, and the standard hotel check-out time is 11:00 am.

1. Accommodation (as per the itinerary):

• Day 1 and Day 13 Hotel Accommodation in 3 Star Hotel in Kathmandu with Bed & Breakfast.
• Day 2 to Day 12 Accommodation in Teahouse.

2. Meals (Veg + Egg):

• All meals Lukla to Lukla from Day 2 Lunch to Day 13 Breakfast
• Fresh fruit after dinner every day.

3. Support:

• 1 Versatile base camp manager handles communication and deploys extra manpower in emergencies.
• 1 Mountaineering & First aid qualified professional trek Leader.
• Local experienced guides (Number of guides depending on the group size).
• Enough support staff.

4. Trek equipment:

• Sleeping bag.
• Gaiters & Crampon (if required).

5. First aid:

• Medical kit, Stretcher, Oxygen cylinder, Blood pressure monitor, Oximeter, Stethoscope.

6. Transportation (as per the itinerary):

• Arrival Departure Airport Transfer as per itinerary.
• Domestic airport transfers for Lukla.
• Kathmandu to Ramecchap /Lukla, and back.

7. Mules/porters to carry the central luggage.  8. Clock room facility available at the base camp for additional luggage. 9. All necessary permits and entry fees, up to the amount charged for Indian. 10. Services from Kathmandu to Kathmandu. 11. TIMS card. 12. EBC Map. 13. Farewell Dinner in Kathmandu. 14. Trek Completion Certificate 15. Complementary Trekking Kit Bag (Duffle bag if opted for Porter facility).

1. Insurance (Mandatory). 2. Food during the transit. 3. Any kind of personal expenses. 4. Mule or porter to carry personal luggage. 5. Emergency evacuation, hospitalization charge, etc. 6. Anything not specifically mentioned under the head Inclusion.

7. Extra Expenses.

• Porters for the personal bag*.
• Wifi, charging batteries, and hot showers.
• Customary gratuities for guides & porters.

8. Nepal entry visa (approximately USD 40, Bring Two Passport Size photos) only for foreigners (Not for Indians). 9. Unforeseen costs due to flight cancellation, weather conditions, etc. 10. Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu. 

Things can be provided on demand and availability (participant has to pay extra for these things).

1- Satellite phone/set phone -  a type of mobile phone that connects via radio links via satellites orbiting the Earth instead of terrestrial cell sites like cell phones. Therefore, they can operate in most geographic locations on the Earth's surface.

2- Gamow/PAC HAPO Bag (Portable Hyperbaric Bag) - is a unique, portable hyperbaric chamber for the treatment of acute mountain sickness (AMS), also known as altitude sickness.

3- AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) -  are portable life-saving devices designed to treat people experiencing sudden cardiac arrest, a medical condition in which the heart stops beating suddenly and unexpectedly. 

Cancellation terms:

Cancellations prior to 25 days from the start of the Trip

Refund options

• 5% deduction of trek fee
• 100% cash voucher for any trip till one year
• Transfer your trek (any trek, any date) to your friend

Cancellation between 24 days and 15 days to the start of the Trip

• 30% deduction of trek fee
• 100% cash voucher for same trip till one year
• 85% cash voucher for any trip till one year
• Transfer your trek (same trek, any date) to your friend

Cancellation between 14 days and 10 days to the start of the Trip

• 50% deduction of trek fee
• 80% cash voucher for same trip till one year
• 70% cash voucher for any trip till one year
• Book the same trek, in the same season, with any other batch

Cancellation less than 9 days to the start of the trek

• No cash refund
• 20% cash voucher for the same trip till one year
• 10% cash voucher for any trip till one year
• Transfer your trek (same trek, same date) to your friend

Note- If a booking is made using a voucher or discount code, the policies related to vouchers and discounts cannot be modified.

In the unlikely event that TTH cancels a trek prior to the scheduled departure date:

While it is extremely rare for TTH to cancel a trek, we understand that unforeseen circumstances or natural disasters may occasionally require us to do so before the scheduled departure. These circumstances could include continuous rain or snow, thunderstorms, snowstorms, landslides, floods, earthquakes, or any other natural calamity that poses a risk to the safety of our trekkers. Additionally, unforeseeable events such as local riots, curfews, pandemics, lockdowns, government orders, or any similar situations that compromise the safety of the trekking experience may also necessitate a cancellation.

In the event of such a cancellation, TTH will provide you with a voucher equivalent to the amount you paid for the trek. This voucher can be redeemed for any of our treks within the next year, allowing you to still enjoy an adventure with us at a later date.

The issuance of a voucher is not applicable in situations where you are required to descend from the trek for any reason. The trek leader may make the decision to send you down from the trek due to factors such as insufficient fitness level, symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), high blood pressure, exceeding the designated turn-around-time, health concerns, or if you are found smoking, drinking, or violating the rules set for the trek. In such cases, the provision of a voucher does not apply.

In the rare event that TTH shifts a trek:

We would like to emphasize that weather conditions in high-altitude areas are highly unpredictable and can undergo sudden changes at any time, irrespective of the day. Additionally, circumstances beyond our control, such as natural disasters, political unrest, pandemics, and lockdowns, may impact the feasibility of conducting a trek. In cases where we are unable to proceed with an event due to such circumstances that are beyond our direct control, we will make every effort to provide you with an alternative trek that is safer and more suitable.

In such situations, we will issue a voucher to offset the cost difference between the originally scheduled trek and the alternative trek. This voucher can be redeemed at any time within one year from the date of issue. Please note that a refund fee or reimbursement of the cost difference is not applicable in these cases.

• Change of trek batch is dependent on the availability of seats in the batch
• In case of transferring a trek to a friend, he/she should satisfy all the mandatory requirements put forward by TTH
• TTH holds the right to change/cancel the policies, without prior notice
• Cash refund is applicable only in case of bookings made without using any promotional offer code or vouchers

Cash Voucher Terms:

• This is a non-transferable voucher
• The voucher cannot be merged with any other offer of Trek The Himalayas
• The voucher is valid for Trek booked directly with Trek The Himalayas in India
• To avail the voucher please use your register phone number or e-mail id
• All the other Terms of booking a trek with Trek The Himalayas are applicable to the voucher
• Trek The Himalayas holds rights to add/remove any of the Terms and Conditions without prior notice

Itineraries are based on information available at the time of planning and are subject to change. "Trek The Himalayas" reserves the right to change expedition dates, people or itineraries as conditions warrant. If a trip must be delayed or the itinerary changed due to bad weather, road conditions, transportation delays, government intervention, airline schedules, sickness, or other contingency for which TTH or its agents cannot make provision, the cost of delays and/or other changes are the responsibility of the participant. TTH reserves the right to decline, or accept, any individual as a trip member for any reason whatsoever.

Trek Essentials

PDF Of Trek Essential Download

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)

How to register/create an account with tth.

To register with TTH, visit our website - www.trekthehimalayas.com and create your account. To create your account you will need to use your email address and fill in all the details, set your unique password and your account is ready to use.

How to book a trek?

• To book a trek with TTH, you first need to register with us and create an account.
• Choose the trek that you want to do and click on available dates.
• You will land at the login page, fill in the required details.
• Add Participants, choose add-on services click on the Pay now button, choose your preferred payment method, and make the payment. TTH accepts multiple payment options, including credit/debit cards, net banking, and UPI.
• You will receive a confirmation email from TTH with all the necessary details about the trek, including the meeting point, transportation, accommodation, and other important instructions.

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Made a payment but did not receive any confirmation.

please send an email to us at [email protected] or reach out to the numbers provided in the Help and Support section of your Trek Page. We will ensure that your issue is promptly resolved.

How to book off-load luggage and transportation?

To book services such as off-load luggage and transportation, you can find them listed as add-ons. These additional services can be booked at the time of your initial booking. If you miss booking add-ons during the initial reservation, you can log in anytime and easily book 4 days before the departure date add-ons through the platform.

If I have booked the wrong trek or date, how can I make changes?

In such a situation, please log in to your account and transfer your trek or date to the desired one within 12 hours or drop us an email at [email protected] 10 days before the departure date of the trek. After the initial 12-hour period, any changes will be processed according to the cancellation policy.

I am a beginner and confused which trek to book.

We recommend visiting our "Suggest Me a Trek" page. By filling out the form, our experts will contact you with the best possible trek options based on your preferences and experience level. Alternatively, you can reach out to us via email at [email protected] or give us a call using the numbers provided on our website for personalized assistance and recommendations.

How is family trek different from regular trek?

Family treks differ from regular treks by focusing on ease of difficulty, offering shorter durations for younger participants, Kid-friendly and easily digestible foods, child-friendly activities, maintaining a higher guide ratio for diverse age groups, and implementing additional safety measures for families.

Ideal treks for children.

Family Trek with Kids recommendation Only Dayara Bugyal and Chopta Chandrashila Trek.

Minimum age for children to trek with TTH.

Minimum age for TTH treks is typically 7 years, though this may vary depending on the specific trek.

Can we take children to high altitudes with their guardian?

Yes, you can take a kids to a high-altitude trek with a parent. Discuss with a trek expert before booking a trek.

Can we send kids without Parents/guardian?

Medical & Disclaimer Form (Mandatory Documents) Click here to download medical and disclaimer form

How to prepare a child for a high altitude trek?

Physical Fitness: Ensure your child is physically fit. Engage them in regular exercise, outdoor activities, and hikes to build stamina and endurance. Hydration: Emphasize the importance of staying hydrated at high altitudes. Encourage your child to drink water regularly, even if they don't feel thirsty. Proper Nutrition: Provide a well-balanced diet with sufficient carbohydrates for energy and foods rich in iron to prevent altitude sickness. Adequate Sleep: Ensure your child gets enough sleep in the days leading up to the trek. Quality rest is crucial for altitude adaptation. Educate on Altitude Sickness: Teach your child about the symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headache, nausea, and dizziness. Encourage them to communicate any discomfort immediately. Appropriate Clothing and Gear: Dress your child in layers to adjust to changing temperatures. Ensure they have appropriate trekking gear, including sturdy footwear. Positive Mindset: Foster a positive mindset. Encourage your child, and let them know it's okay to take breaks when needed. Medical Check-Up: Schedule a medical check-up before the trek to ensure your child is fit for high-altitude activities. Consult with a healthcare professional about any potential health concerns.

Kind of food will be served during the trek for children.

TTH takes special care to provide wholesome and nutritious food for children on treks. Here are some of the foods that are typically served for children: Breakfast: For breakfast, TTH serves a variety of options like porridge, cornflakes, bread, butter, jam, honey, boiled eggs, omelettes, and pancakes. Children can choose from these options to fuel themselves for the day's trek. Lunch: For lunch, TTH serves lunch which includes rotis, vegetables, rice, dal, and salad. The rotis are usually made fresh on the trek and are a good source of carbohydrates. The dal and vegetables provide protein and other essential nutrients. Snacks: TTH provides healthy snacks like fresh fruits, dry fruits, energy bars, cookies, and biscuits to keep the children energized throughout the day. Dinner: For dinner, TTH serves a hot and wholesome meal which includes soup, rice, dal, vegetables, and a non-vegetarian dish (if requested in advance). Children can also choose from a variety of desserts like custard, jelly, and fruit salad. Dietary requirements: If a child has any special dietary requirements, TTH can cater to those needs as well. For example, if a child is lactose intolerant or allergic to nuts, the kitchen staff can make arrangements to accommodate those requirements.

How to choose the right trek?

Choosing the right trek for a beginner can be a bit overwhelming as there are many factors to consider such as distance, elevation gain, terrain difficulty, weather, and time of year. Here are some tips that can help you choose the right trek for a beginner:

1. Determine fitness level:  Assess the fitness level of the beginner to understand their physical capabilities. This will help you select a trek that is challenging but not too difficult.

2. Choose a well-traveled trail:  A well-traveled trail will have more amenities such as signposts, water stations, and shelter. It is also safer as there will be other hikers on the trail.

3. Consider the length of the trek:  For beginners, it is recommended to start with a shorter trek that can be completed in a day or two. This will help them get acclimatized to trekking and build their confidence.

4. Look for gradual elevation gain:  Choose a trek with a gradual elevation gain rather than steep ascents. This will make the trek easier and more enjoyable.

5. Check the weather:  Check the weather forecast before selecting a trek. Avoid treks during the monsoon season or winter when the trails can be slippery or dangerous.

6. Research the trail:  Read about the trail to get an idea of the terrain, altitude, and difficulty level. This will help you select a trek that is suitable for the beginner.

7. Consult with an expert:  If you are unsure about which trek to choose, consult our trek expert Mr. Nitin (+91 70600 59773) between 10 AM to 6 PM (Tuesday - Friday). Mr. Nitin will provide you valuable advice and guidance.

Overall, it is important to choose a trek that is enjoyable, challenging but not too difficult, and suitable for the beginner's fitness level and experience.

Can a beginner choose a tough trek?

It is not recommended for a beginner to choose a difficult Himalayan trek. Trekking in the Himalayas can be physically and mentally challenging, especially if you are not used to the high altitude, steep slopes, and rugged terrain. Choosing a difficult trek without the proper experience, fitness level, and preparation can be dangerous and put you at risk of altitude sickness, injury, and other hazards.

If you are a beginner, it is recommended to start with an easier trek and gradually build up your skills and experience. This will help you understand the challenges of trekking in the Himalayas, and also prepare you physically and mentally for a more difficult trek in the future. It is also important to choose a trek that matches your fitness level, experience, and interest.

What is the age limit for a beginner trekker?

There is no specific age limit for a beginner trekker. However, it is important to consider your physical fitness, health condition, and personal interests before embarking on a trek. Trekking in the Himalayas can be physically and mentally demanding, and requires a certain level of physical fitness and endurance.

If you have any pre-existing medical conditions or are above a certain age, it is recommended to consult with a doctor before embarking on a trek. It is also important to listen to your body and take breaks as needed during the trek to prevent exhaustion or injury.

If I am solo, can I join the trek in a group?

Yes, you can join the trek. We have fixed departure groups where you can simply book your trek and we will take care of curating a group.

How does my family get updated about my Trek?

Before you start the trek, it is recommended that you make all the necessary phone calls as during the trek you may or may not receive network coverage, once you come back to the Base Camp, you can reconnect with your family via phone once again. You can share your trek coordinator contact detail with your family members to get the latest updates about your trek batch.

What food can I expect?

At TTH, we provide wholesome and nutritious meals during the trek. The food is vegetarian and includes a variety of dishes such as rice, dal, vegetables, chapati, paratha, pasta, noodles, and soup. We also offer snacks such as biscuits, and salty, and dry fruits during the trek. Special dietary requirements such as vegan, gluten-free, or Jain food can also be arranged if informed in advance.

I am allergic to some foods.

If you are allergic to some foods, you need to let us know in advance so that we can make arrangements accordingly.

How safe is trekking with TTH?

TTH is a trekking company that prioritizes the safety of all its participants, including women trekkers. They have a comprehensive safety system in place, which includes a dedicated team of experienced and trained trek leaders and support staff who are equipped to handle emergency situations and provide first aid.

TTH also takes specific measures to ensure the safety and comfort of women trekkers. They have a separate tent accommodation for women trekkers, female trek leaders, and support staff. They also provide separate toilet facilities for women and encourage a safe and respectful environment for all trekkers.

Moreover, TTH has a strict policy against any kind of harassment and has a zero-tolerance policy towards such incidents. They have a designated Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) to investigate and address any complaints related to harassment or misconduct. Overall, TTH has a good reputation for safety and responsible trekking practices, and women can feel comfortable and safe while trekking with them.

How TTH will manage if I am the only woman in the group?

In case you are the only women in the group, we provide a single sleeping arrangement. Also, during the trek, the trek leader will always remain by your side to provide optimum safety and reassurance.

How can I know that other women are in the batch?

You can reach out to the trek coordinator to inquire about the number of female trekkers and their respective states who have booked the trek. Please note that the trek coordinator cannot disclose personal details of any trekker. Once you've confirmed your booking, a WhatsApp Group will be created for all the trekkers in your batch. This allows you to connect with fellow trekkers before the trek begins.

Can I know in advance, which trek is led by a women Trek Leader?

While many of our treks are led by female trek leaders, however, it is not possible to know which trek leader is assigned to which group. But nonetheless, whether the trek leader is male or female you can be completely assured of your safety and security with us.

Can I trek with periods? If yes, then where can I dispose of the sanitary pad?

Yes, it is possible to trek with periods. However, it is important to take some extra precautions and preparations to ensure a comfortable and safe trekking experience.

Here are some tips that can help you trek during your period:

1. Use menstrual hygiene products that you are comfortable with, such as tampons, pads, or menstrual cups. It is recommended to carry enough supplies for the entire duration of the trek.

2. Pack wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and plastic bags to dispose of used hygiene products.

3. Wear comfortable and breathable clothing that allows for easy movement and reduces friction. Avoid wearing tight or restrictive clothing that can cause discomfort.

4. Carry pain relief medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, in case of menstrual cramps.

5. Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet to support your energy levels and overall health.

6. Take breaks as needed and listen to your body. If you feel uncomfortable or experience any unusual symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

It is also recommended to consult with a doctor before going on a trek during your period, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition or are taking medication. By taking necessary precautions and being prepared, you can have a safe and comfortable trekking experience even during your period.

We provide proper disposal facilities for sanitary pad disposal during the trek.

How will the accommodation be during the trek?

We offer three person tents with twin-sharing for optimum comfort. A woman trekker will share a tent with another woman trekker and if you are the only woman in the group, you will be given a single accommodation for your comfort and privacy.

Are trek poles, Jackets and other equipment available for rent from Trek The Himalayas?

Yes, we do provide gears on rent. You can book it using you TTH account directly.

Who will be with us on the trek from Trek The Himalayas?

Mountaineering qualified Experienced and first aid certified Trek Leader, First Aid Certify local guide, Cook, helpers and supporting staff.

Who can not join the trek?

People suffering from Bronchitis, Asthma, High blood pressure, Epilepsy (got faints), TB , Heart problem or on higher BMI side are strictly not allowed to go on any Himalayan trek. Apart from this if you had any medical history, please let us know.

When it gets really cold can I consume alcohol?

No. Alcohol and smoking isn’t allowed while on trek. It is totally misconception that it will keep you warm. Your body need to acclimatize properly and for that eat properly and drink enough water; these things will keep you warm.

What type of toilet facility is TTH providing at the trek?

Toilet tents provide a convenient solution for answering nature's call in the great outdoors. Dry toilets, in particular, offer a highly sanitary approach. By digging a pit and utilizing mud and a shovel, you can easily cover up your waste. This method ensures cleanliness and hygiene while camping or exploring in the forest. 

Remember to pack essential toiletries to complete your outdoor bathroom kit and maintain proper personal hygiene during your adventures. With these practices in place, you can enjoy nature while also respecting it.

How do I manage the negative temperatures on the trek at higher camps? Do I need special jackets?

Layer Up From Head To Toe Eat Full Meals, never sleep empty stomach You can keep warmee (if you’re more susceptible to cold). Use sleeping bag in right way and don’t leave free space in sleeping bag.

For upper body – Thermal layer – T-shirt (full-sleeves) – Fleece T-shirt (for extreme colds) – Fleece layer – Thick Jacket/Down Jacket – Waterproof or Windproof layer (outermost layer, when it is snowing or raining) - For Lower Body – Thermal layer – Hiking pants (normal) or Winter hiking pants

Based on how warm you feel you can skip any of the above layers. Your outer later should be windproof since it is windy at high altitude. The idea behind layering is that the more insulation you have the less cold you feel, and instead of wearing a very thick jacket if you wear multiple layers, your body will be better insulated against the cold.

Do you provide crampon/micro spikes and gaiters?

Yes, we provide micro spikes and gaiters, if required.

What documents need to carry on trek?

Mandatory documents: 2 xerox of ID having address (addhar card/driving license), 2 Passport size photographs, hard copy Medical form signed & sealed by doctor, disclaimer form sign by trekker and high altitude insurance.

If we come prior the trek date, Do you provide accommodation?

No. We don’t but we can suggest you good hotel/Stay nearby pick up location.

Do we get enough water for drinking?

Yes, trekker must carry 2 water bottles 1 litre each so they can refill it at campsite for drinking and keep themselves hydrate.

What kind of shoes we should buy for the trek?

You should buy shoes which has these three features –Good grip, Ankle Support and additional water resistant layers. Generally, we advise Quechua Trek 100, MH 500 and MH 100.

What happens if some members of the team need to turn back before the summit?

No one is forced to go on. There is always enough staff to split the party according to need and regroup later at the camp. Most people have no trouble reaching the highest campsite. If some members decide not to climb the final distance they can wait for the climbers to come back down the same way or take a lateral path to the descent route.

What makes Trek The Himalayas Best Trekking Company in India?

Trek The Himalayas is the safest and most trusted trekking organization in India. Our deep expertise and commitment ensure that each trekker can fully immerse in the Himalayan beauty while experiencing a well-organized and memorable journey. We are proud to be recognized among the best trekking companies in India and have been awarded the PHD Samman Award two years consecutively for Best Adventure Tour Operator . Our founders, themselves are proficient mountaineers and belong to the hilly states of India. At TTH we follow all the safety protocols. Our Trek Leaders are expertly trained in First Aid and Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) management. The extensive experience is a key factor in establishing us as the best trekking company in India .

Explore the best trekking companies in India and see what sets them apart. 

What is the Everest Base Camp trek?

The Everest Base Camp trek  is a popular trekking route in Nepal that leads to the base camp of the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest. It  is located in the Khumbu region of Nepal, at an altitude of approximately 18,200 ft above sea level. The trek shows the stunning views of Mount Everest and surrounding peaks and also gives a wonderful opportunity for trekkers to experience the local Sherpa town and culture.

How long does the Everest Base Camp trek take?

The trek to   Everest Base Camp   usually takes about 13-14 days including acclimatization days. Trekkers start their adventure upon arriving in Kathmandu, then proceed through key destinations such as Lukla, Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, Gorakshep and finally Everest Base Camp, and Kala Patthar.

Lukla is one of the most adventurous and thrilling airports you will ever get to see. It is located at a high altitude with a very short runway. The further journey provides the beautiful experience of sherpa culture, Namche Bazaar, food, and a glimpse of Mountain peaks. In the high altitude, the area is rugged but still in some parts fertilization can be seen. There are monasteries where one can offer prayers and the Everest Memorial , dedicated to climbers who lost their lives during their ascent of Mount Everest. 

Which is the best time for the Everest Base Camp trek?

The best time for the Everest Base Camp trek is during Summer and Autumn . In these periods the weather conditions are at best and the views of the mountains are clear.   And if we talk about specifically the best months to visit EBC are March, April, May, September, October, and November.

Trekkers are treated to the best sunrises over Everest, in the early morning light. Along the way, they can explore vibrant local places like Namche Bazaar Sherpa town and monasteries. Namche  Bazar is a famous market for shopping and you can collect souvenirs. During the trek, you will go through Sherpa town and can experience the Sherpa culture as  well as the serene Tengboche Monastery, an important spiritual site with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. The people of Sherpa culture are very helpful and are considered superhumans, as they are very much acclimatized to that area and very well experienced in tackling any situation. 

What is the difficulty level of the Everest Base Camp trek?

Although the EBC trek is not challenging while trekking, it's difficult due to high altitudes. With every new spot, the altitude rises and the chances of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) are very common. It is strictly guided to have a regular exercise routine before going to the EBC trek  to ensure you're physically ready. Our Trek Leaders emphasize the importance of staying hydrated and provide continuous guidance to help you manage the altitude. With the right preparation and support, you can make the most of this incredible journey.

Our Leaders also guide trekkers to always inform them if they feel any uneasiness or discomfort during the trek. This proactive approach will help for early intervention to prevent minor issues from escalating. However, our trek leaders are highly trained and can often recognize signs of altitude sickness or fatigue through body language and symptoms before trekkers even mention them. They provide timely guidance to ensure a safe and enjoyable trek.

Some key points as trekkers, we should always be aware of and keep in mind for a healthy trek.

●  Keep drinking plenty of water. It is important in preventing Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)  and its symptoms, such as headaches and nausea.

●  Eat regularly. Consuming protein bars and other energy-rich snacks will help in keeping your energy levels up throughout the trek.

●  Keep using moisturizers and lotions to prevent sunburn and keep your skin healthy in the harsh mountain environment.

What is the altitude of Everest Base Camp trek?

The altitude of Everest Base Camp is approximately 18,200 ft. 

Is there a permit required for the EBC Trek?

Yes, trekkers are required to obtain permits for the Everest Base Camp trek . However, when you trek with TTH, all the necessary permit arrangements are taken care of on your behalf. This means you can focus entirely on enjoying your journey without the hassle of paperwork. TTH ensures that everything is in order, so you can embark on your adventure worry-free.

Is it necessary to have prior trekking experience for the EBC trek?

While prior trekking experience is not mandatory, it is highly recommended. The trek involves long days of walking at high altitudes, so a good level of fitness and some trekking experience can be beneficial. It is important to prepare well with physical fitness and exercise before going on the EBC trek.

One can also follow the TTH fitness chart, which includes essential exercises specifically designed for high-altitude treks . The chart outlines the recommended exercises along with the optimal time and duration for each, allowing you to plan your fitness routine effectively. This structured approach ensures you’re well-prepared for the challenges of trekking at higher elevations.

What kind of accommodation can I expect on the Everest Base Camp trek?

Accommodations along the Everest Base Camp trek are in teahouses or lodges, offering a unique and immersive experience. You'll be staying in some of the highest villages, and get a rare opportunity to witness the daily lives and customs of the local Sherpa communities. These lodgings not only offer a comfortable place to rest but also allow you to engage with the rich cultural traditions and lifestyles of people living in the remote corners of the Himalayas. Each stop along the route offers a chance to experience the warmth and hospitality of the mountain communities and adds a deeper dimension to your   trekking adventure .

How is the weather and temperature on the EBC trek?

At higher altitudes, weather conditions can be highly variable and unpredictable. You should be prepared for cold temperatures, as well as the possibility of snow and rain.

The temperature at Everest Base Camp (EBC)  varies significantly depending on the time of year. During the summer months, from March to May, temperatures at EBC are generally mild, ranging from 15-16°C during the day. However, nighttime temperatures can drop considerably, falling to around 0°C to -2°C, and sometimes even lower.

During the autumn months, from September to November, temperatures at EBC can plummet to around -7°C, and in some cases, they can be even colder. These lower temperatures can make the environment quite challenging, especially for those unprepared for the cold.

Given these temperature variations, trekkers must be well-prepared with appropriate warm clothing and gear. Layered clothing, including thermal base layers, insulated jackets, and high-quality gloves and hats, will help ensure comfort and protection against harsh conditions. Additionally, having proper sleeping gear and thermal liners will make nights at the base camp more bearable. Being prepared for these temperature extremes will enhance your trekking experience and help you enjoy more. 

How should I prepare for the trek?

Preparation includes physical training, obtaining necessary permits, packing appropriate gear, and acclimatizing to high altitude.

What should I pack for the Everest Base Camp Trek?

Warm Clothing:  Layering is key. Pack thermal wear, insulated jackets, and warm layers to keep yourself comfortable in varying temperatures. A good base layer, fleece jackets, and a down jacket are recommended to manage the cold.

Waterproof Jacket and Pants:  A high-quality   waterproof, and windproof jacket and pants will protect you from rain, snow, and strong winds.

Sturdy Trekking Boots: Go for well-fitting trekking boots with good ankle support. They should be waterproof and have a robust grip to handle rocky and uneven terrain.

Sleeping Bag:  Choose a sleeping bag rated for cold temperatures, with a temperature rating suitable for sub-zero conditions. This ensures you stay warm during chilly nights.

Trekking Poles: Trekking poles help with balance and reduce strain on your knees, especially on steep or uneven trails. Adjustable, lightweight poles are best for this trek.

Sunglasses, Sunscreen, and Lip Balm: Protect yourself from the high-altitude sun. Pack UV-protective sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen, and moisturizing lip balm to prevent sunburn and chapped skin.

Personal Medications and First Aid Kit: Bring any personal medications you may need, along with a basic first aid kit. This should include items for treating minor injuries, altitude sickness, and common ailments.

How do I deal with altitude sickness?

Altitude sickness is a risk on high-altitude treks. To minimize the risk, ascend gradually, stay hydrated, and allow time for acclimatization. If symptoms occur, it's important to update your trek leader and they will help you with the best guidance and might provide medical attention if needed.

What are the essential points to keep in mind when preparing for the Everest Base Camp trek?

Some essential points to keep in mind while preparing for the Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek:

1.  Physical Fitness : Ensure you are in good physical condition. Engage in regular cardio, strength training, and endurance exercises to prepare your body for the trek.

2.  Acclimatization : Allow time for proper acclimatization to high altitudes to prevent Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Follow a gradual ascent plan and adhere to rest days.

3.  Permits : Obtain all necessary permits and documents. TTH typically handles these permits for you.

4.  Packing : Pack appropriate gear, including warm clothing, waterproof layers, sturdy trekking boots, a high-quality sleeping bag, and trekking poles.

5.  Hydration and Nutrition : Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet. Carry energy-boosting snacks like protein bars and keep up with regular water intake.

6.  Health and Safety : Inform your trek leader if you feel unwell at any point. Follow their advice and be aware of AMS symptoms.

7.  Weather Conditions : Prepare for varying weather conditions. Even during favourable seasons, temperatures can drop significantly, especially at higher altitudes.

8.  Carry Sufficient Cash:  There are no ATMs in Lukla, so it’s crucial to bring enough cash for emergencies. Additionally, Kathmandu offers some of the best and most affordable options for purchasing trekking equipment, so ensure you have sufficient funds for both emergencies and any gear you may need.

What are some of the top Nepal treks?

The T op Nepal treks are   Khopra Ridge , Annapurna Base Camp Trek  & Mera Peak Expedition .  

Can I charge electronic devices during the trek?

Yes, most teahouses offer charging facilities, but there may be a small fee for using them. Bring a power bank as a backup to ensure you have enough power for your devices.

What is the cost of the Everest Base Camp Trek?

The cost varies depending on the trekking company, inclusions, and the length of the trek. Generally, it includes permits, accommodation, meals, guide and porter fees, and transportation. It does not typically cover international airfare or personal expenses.

Is it possible to trek solo?

While solo trekking is possible, it’s recommended to trek with a guide or as part of a group for safety reasons. Guides provide support, navigation, and help with local regulations and permits.

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