everest trek food

Food On Everest Trek

Ayush dahal.

Last Updated on Nov 26, 2023

If you are planning to trek to Everest, you might be wondering what food is available there. If you are a foodie trekker, you might raise this question first in your mind. We hope this blog clarifies your curiosity about food in the Everest Region.

Everest Trek is renowned for more than just its mountains, vistas, and scenery. One other thing that is well-known about the trek to Everest Base Camp is the authentic taste of Sherpa or Himalayan cuisine.

Food during the Everest base camp trekking is known for its unique flavors and its taste. The taste of the food is more delicious than the view of Everest Base Camp. Everest Hotel View is a living example of the best food and accommodation in the Everest region.

Now let’s discuss more about foods during trekking in Everest.

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Dal Bhat: “The Trekkers fuel’’

There is a common saying “Dal-bhat power for 24 hours”. Here, it means the Dal-Bhat dish can give you full energy for up to 24 hours. Dal-Bhaat is an offering of lentil soup with rice. It is a daily meal of half Nepalese. Dal-Bhat is one of the best nutritional diets for trekkers and foodies.

The Dal-bhat is also known as trekkers' fuel because it provides lots of calories for tired trekkers who come along with long-distance trekking. The lentil soup is served with Jimbu (Nepali aromatic leaf garlic), which is one of the healing elements for altitude sickness on the Everest trek.

Sherpa stew: (Shakpa)

Sherpa stew is also known as shakpa. It is a traditional dish of the Sherpa tradition. Shakpa is a good opener—hot, soft, and spicy—to overcome your cold in the Everest Region.

The flavored soup full of Tibetan noodles with strips, meat chunks, and green vegetables is one of the best dishes found on Everest and a perfect example of Sherpa culture.

Tibetan Bread or Gurung Bread

Tibetan bread is a popular dish in every trekking region in Nepal. Tibetan bread is popular for morning light and a simple breakfast. Tibetan Bread enriches the culture of Tibetan traditions and flavors of the Himalayas

Photo of Tibetan bread found in Everest region

Tibetan bread is made up of deep-fried bread and is also known as Gurung bread. It is served with honey or jam and is often taken at the tea shops during your trek break.

Suja: Tea of Himalayas

It is also known as Suja in the Everest Region. This food originated from Sherpa culture, which is one of the most unique tea styles in the world. Suja is served with hot water soaked in tea leaves and yak butter with the best flavor of salt. Butter tea is known for being the best source of warmth and energy in the cold weather on Everest.

Himalayan Dumplings ( Momo )

When it comes to Nepali or Tibetan food, everyone loves momo. Many people love and crave these tasty dumplings. These small packages are full of taste and can be filled with soft meats, veggies, or cheese. Momo is made by folding thin dough into different forms and then steaming or frying it until it's done.

Momo is a snack often served with a spicy dipping sauce and is a must-try for anyone who wants to learn more about the food of the Himalayas. It tastes great and can be used in many different ways, making it a great addition to any meal or hiking trip.

Other Snacks in Everest

There is a cross-point in food while doing the trek in the Everest region, like pizza and burgers, French fries, chowmein, macaroni, steaks, spaghetti, pancakes, and sizzler. The food varies depending on the different accommodations. Make sure, if you are doing a trek, you bring extra energetic supplements like chocolate, chocolate bars, energy bars, and energy drinks to gain energy for your trek.

Altitude sickness Food

There is no specific food that would help you prevent altitude sickness, but there are some extra food hacks to minimize your risk for altitude sickness symptoms.

Intaking high-calorie foods can help you boost your energy

Making your body hydrated all the time

High-energy snacks like nuts, dried fruit, and energy bars can quickly Increase your energy

Seasonal Fruits is also considered great, and vitamin C-enriched food are also a good alternative for oxygen supply in the body

Iron Rich food like spinach, Tofu, and dark chocolate also help boost your oxygen level

Locally, ginger and garlic are known as the best remedies for altitude sickness. It helps to reduce the symptoms.

Drinking Water

Staying hydrated requires consuming a lot of fluids, mainly water, throughout the day. The increased fluid loss that occurs as a result of increased respiration at high elevations may lead to dehydration, which in turn can make altitude sickness worse.

During the trek, mostly tap water is used for drinking, and it is mostly advised to take some purification tablets to purify the water. The water bottle at high altitude is more expensive than in the lower area.

Foods to Avoid During Trek

If you are an experienced trekker, you might know from your previous experience. But this is an informational point. Avoiding some foods will help you trek to Everest easily, like alcohol consumption, which will lead you to the worst scenario. Junk food during the trek might be a good source of energy. You should take care of your body by consuming a nutritious diet while doing the trek.

When you take a trek in Everest, not only will your eyes be treated to a feast, but so will your taste buds. The exploration of the local cuisine is an experience you won't want to pass up since it adds a cultural dimension to your voyage and is an opportunity you won't want to pass up. As you prepare to start on your adventure to the Everest area, make sure to sample these delectable meals and drinks native to the Himalayas so that you may create enduring memories of your journey across the highest mountains in the world.

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Food On The Everest Base Camp Trek – Food Guide

The spectacular Everest Base Camp trek is one of the most loved treks in the world. You will stay at the local tea houses, and lodges while trekking the rugged landscapes of the Everest region . Food is an essential part of the trekking journey as getting the right nutrition will ensure a comfortable trekking experience.

Every trekker must learn about the food on the Everest Base Camp Trek before they start their trek. The energy required for trekking the magical landscapes of the Himalayas depends upon your food intake. The tea houses along the trek offer homely meals and cozy accommodations. You will get a limited variety on the menu but the food is super delicious.

Moreover, these nutritious meals will keep you energized during the trek. The food service and incredible hospitality of the local Sherpa community will make you feel special. A warm meal after a taxing trekking journey in the rugged terrains of the region is essential.

Want to know more about the food facilities in the Everest region? Well, you have arrived at the right place. Read further for the complete description of the food on the Everest Base Camp trek in detail.

Food Facilities Along The Everest Base Camp Trek

What to eat during the trek.

The trails of the spectacular trek pass through the remote landscapes. Hence, the food ingredients need to get carried by Yaks and porters to the villages along the trail. The non-perishable ingredients like rice, grains, and cereals are widely used in the Everest region treks. Besides that, the lentil soup commonly known as Dal is also available in the region.

Since, rice is quite common in the region, the menu in the teahouses is rice-based and generally served with a staple side dish. You will get served “Dal Bhat” all along the trail. A limited variety of western cuisine including pizza, burgers, pasta are available along the lower elevation of the trail including Lukla, and Namche. You can find many cafes, pubs, restaurants, and bakeries in the commercial hub of Namche.

Is the food served fresh?

There is no guarantee in the freshness of the food in the Everest region. This stunning trek passes through the remote landscapes. All the food items get transported from outside the region. However, the tea houses that are busy and flocked with tourists ensure fresh food.

Is meat available along the trek?

The meat dishes are available at the tea houses along the region as well. However, you should not eat meat dishes at these high altitudes. Since, the meat products are generally carried on the back of a yak after being flown to Lukla, it is not properly refrigerated.

Hence, the meat products are not fresh or the freshness remains unknown. Since, the slaughtering of animals is not allowed in the region, all the meat products get flown from outside the Everest region.

How many meals get served in a day?

The trekkers will get offered three sit-down meals each day. For breakfast, you can have toast, tea, eggs, and porridge. It gets served at around 8 am which is ideal for the early morning trek. Trekkers can stop at various tea houses along the trail for lunch. Dal Bhat which consists of rice, dal (pulses), lentils, spinach, gundruk, meat, and others is a typical meal offered for lunch.

Garlic soup is a great dish that helps you tackle altitude sickness in the high altitude region . Furthermore, dinner gets served in the dining area around a large stove in the company of fellow trekkers. Dal Bhat gets served twice a day whereas you can drink hot soup just before bed. Trekkers can carry tea bags, milk powders, granola bars, protein bars, energy drinks, and others for quick trekking snacks.

How is the water along the trek?

The tap water along the trail is unsuitable for drinking. The bottled mineral water is quite expensive. You can boil the water from the local stream to drink and make tea, coffee, and others. You can also use various water purification tablets and chlorine solutions to purify the water.

Moreover, boiled water is also available at the teahouse. Regular hydration is essential during the Everest Base Camp Trek as it helps to tackle altitude sickness. You should drink at least 3 to 4 liters of water per day (including hot water drinks like tea, coffee, hot soups, and others).

Popular Food on the Everest Base Camp Trek

Dal Bhat is the common dish served in most of the tea houses along the trail. You will get served a generous portion of steamed white rice, lentils, vegetables, spinach, pickles, gundruk, and others. Dal Bhat is a nutritious meal that provides instant energy during the Everest base camp trek.

Yak meats are quite delicious and nutritious. The local guide will help you learn the freshness of the meat. The yak meat steak gets served with some cheese. It will provide you enough protein for the high altitude trek.

Garlic soup

The garlic soup is a popular food on the Everest Base Camp Trek. You can have this soup at various points along the trek and before you go to bed. It will help you to tackle altitude sickness in the region.

Chinese cuisine

Chinese cuisines are easy to make and popular along the tea houses. Momo and chow mein are available at the teahouses as well. You can have these dishes if you get tired of the staple Dal Bhat.

Food at Various Places Along the Everest Base Camp Trek

This food on the Everest Base Camp trek guide will give you an overall idea about the food facilities during the trek.

You will spend a couple of days in Kathmandu before starting on the Everest Base Camp trek. Many accommodation facilities are available in Kathmandu that range from luxurious five-star hotels to budget hotels. You can find a wide range of cuisines at the varied price in these accommodation facilities.

Moreover, there are many hotels, restaurants, pubs, and cafes where you can have western or other world cuisines in and around Kathmandu. Thamel is a tourist hub with a vibrant atmosphere. You can also have a celebration dinner after the completion of the trek in Kathmandu.

Lukla is the gateway to the Everest region. The trail of this spectacular trek takes you along the settlements of Phakding or Namche. Lukla has many hotels, guest houses, and lodges. The hotels and lodges cost you more than the teahouses.

Furthermore, the food facilities are better in Lukla as it has a direct supply. The Nepali and western cuisine along the trail are incredibly delicious. The food prices are higher when compared to Kathmandu. This is because all the food ingredients have to be flown by air to Lukla.

Phakding is our next destination from Lukla where we arrive after passing through the Dudh Koshi river valley. The village settlement is just north of Lukla and south of Monjo.

Phakding has many hotels, lodges, and guest houses situated on both sides of the pristine Dudh Koshi river. There are various luxury accommodations in the settlement as well. The food choices are also the same as that of Lukla.

Namche Bazaar is the famous Sherpa town of the Khumbu region. It is an incredible scenic acclimatization point with many tourist spots. Many trekkers and climbers also spend a couple of days acclimatizing in Namche to adjust to the high altitude weather and conditions.

Namche has a wide range of accommodation facilities that includes basic teahouses to luxury hotels. Namche has many luxury amenities that are not found in any other settlements along the Everest Base Camp. There are restaurants, pubs, hotels, cafes, and others. You will get a wide range of menu choices with varying prices at the accommodation facilities of Namche.

Moreover, meat items are also available in Namche and you should not have any meat items beyond Namche. Namche is the last place with any proper refrigeration along the trail. There is also a bakery at the high altitude settlement where you can have delicious freshly baked items .

Tengboche is a beautiful settlement and is famous for the religious Tengboche monastery . It is the largest monastery in the Khumbu region. There are few hotels and tea houses in Tengboche. The tea houses are basic with twin bed rooms.

Furthermore, there are facilities of attached bathrooms, toilets, and hot showers in some of the teahouses in the region. The food menu gets shrunk significantly in Tengboche. There is a bakery in Tengboche where you can gorge on freshly baked items.

Dingboche is an incredible Sherpa village where many trekkers stop for acclimatization during the Everest Base Camp trek. The tea houses and lodges are few and provide basic facilities.

Moreover, the food facilities are basic and shrink further in Dingboche. The basic food facilities include the staple dish of “dal bhat”. The nutritious meal will give you enough energy for the trek.

Lobuche is a beautiful settlement where we spend the night before arriving at the Everest Base Camp. The settlement has few teahouses that you need to pre-book during the peak seasons. There is a limited variety of food on the menu. However, the food gets made with extra care and is quite delicious in the local teahouses.

Gorakshep is the last stop before you arrive at the Everest Base Camp. It is also the base of the Kala Patthar and the original Everest Base Camp. They are basic tea houses for accommodation that are few. Hence, it can get quite crowded at peak seasons and you might have to share a room or sleep in the hall.

However, you will get the warm heating from the kitchen in the hall and you will also get to socialize. The food facilities in Gorak shep is basic as it is the highest point of the teahouses. You will get basic dal bhat in the limited food menu.

Cost of Food on the Everest Base Camp Trek

There is a wide-ranging food and accommodation facilities along this trek in the Everest region. In the peak season (Autumn and Spring), the trails get crowded and will cost you more in comparison to the off-season treks. A basic teahouse will cost you around $3-$5 per night on average.

Furthermore, the cost of accommodation and food on the Everest Base Camp trek drops significantly in the offseason. Some tea houses will offer free accommodation and will only charge you for the meals. Hence, you should book the accommodations facilities based on the menu of the teahouses.

The Final Say

The Everest Base Camp trek is an incredible adventure in the foothills of the highest mountain in the world, Mt Everest (8848 m). You will stay at the local teahouses and eat delicious meals along the trek. In the peak seasons, the accommodations get filled up early.

Therefore, you should pre-book all your accommodation and meal facilities to be safe from any hassle. This way you can get great deals, in accommodations and meals along the trail and you can enjoy the trek stress-free. I hope the above guide helped you to know more about the food on the Everest Base Camp trek .

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Ashish Niraula

Ashish Niraula is a seasoned trekker and professional tour consultant based in the country of the Himalayas. He has over seven years of hands-on experience in the sector, which has helped fortify his knowledge and expertise to craft the most iconic and memorable adventure packages in the Himalayas. Ashish’s passion for traveling and the unwavering drive that always pushes him toward excellency, have helped him earn a reputation as a trustworthy advisor in the tourism sector.

As a traveling enthusiast, Ashish has explored all the major trekking routes of Nepal. With years of experience exploring the mystical Himalayas and professional engagement in the field, Ashish honed his skills to design the most iconic adventure experiences in the Himalayas that cater to the adventure palate of every traveler. From organizing the challenging treks to the rugged Himalayas with incredible thrills to facilitating culturally immersive experiences across the traditional settlements in the country, Ashish’s commitment to excellence shines through every aspect of his work.

Food and Drinks in the Everest Base Camp Trek

For many travelers, the Everest Base Camp Trek is the experience of a lifetime. As with other expeditions in high-altitude regions, food is crucial in nourishing the body and learning the local culture. On the EBC trek, travelers will have a variety of foods available at the teahouses and lodges. This particular expedition is a remarkable journey in the Himalayas of Nepal, attracting thousands of trekkers and adventurers worldwide. As you chase the towering Mount Everest base camp, you will enjoy the distinct cuisine and beverages of the Khumbu/Everest region. The following blog will provide you with an overview of what you should expect regarding the foods and drinks in the Everest Base Camp Trek. The information we have provided will surely enhance your journey and improve your experience along the trail.

Food on the Everest Base Camp Trek

While trekking in high-altitude regions, your body needs a balanced and nutritious diet to replenish itself with energy. Along the trail, you will stay at teahouses and lodges, providing you with various dining options. The food options in these charming accommodation establishments range from local traditional to Western dishes. You must remember that the menu items might be limited and more expensive as you ascend higher in the trek.

Local Cuisine

During the Everest Base Camp Trek in Nepal , travelers must try authentic Nepali cuisine, such as dal bhat tarkari, which includes rice, lentil soup, vegetables, and meat. We also recommend you try other dishes such as dado, roti tarkari, and gundruk.

Western Taste

Most Khumbu/Everest region tea houses serve Western cuisines such as noodles, pasta, pizza, pancakes, burgers, and macaroni. While these dishes may vary in quality compared to the West, they offer familiar flavors for those who seek comfort.

During the EBC trek , you will walk for 5-6 hours daily, so you must boost your energy. We suggest you pack protein bars, granola bars, jerky, nuts, and dry fruits. You can portion the snacks accordingly to sustain the amount of proteins you intake along the trek.

Breakfast Options on the EBC Trek Route

Breakfast is an essential meal for trekkers, as it offers the energy and nutrients to start the day of hiking. A proper breakfast will maintain your energy levels, enhance your endurance, and fuel you throughout the journey. Usually, most teahouses and lodges provide breakfast around 7 a.m. to 8 a.m. Here are some popular options for breakfast on the EBC trek.

Oat porridge/Muesli
Rice pudding
Plain Toasts
Toast bread with honey
Plain Omelette
Scrambled egg
Cheese Omelette
Tibetan pancakes
Chapati with peanut butter
Tea/Milk tea/Black tea/Lemon tea/Ginger tea
Milk coffee/Black coffee

Lunch and dinner on the Everest Base Camp Route?

The teahouses along the trail offer various options for lunch and dinner. In the trek's daily routine, lunch is served in the afternoon from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. On the other hand, dinner is served from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. We have listed the dishes available in the trek, which you can choose for lunch or dinner.

Non-veg dal bhat
Veg dal bhat
Egg/Mix/Buff/Chicken fried rice
Egg/Buff/Chicken/Veg Chow Mein
Chicken/Buff/Egg Thukpa
Sherpa Stew
Buff/Chicken/Veg momo
Pasta with egg
Pasta with cheese and tomato sauce
Spaghetti with cheese
Spaghetti with tuna fish
Grilled egg/chicken/cheese/tuna sandwich

How much does food cost on the Everest Base Camp trek?

During the EBC trek, the food costs range from $20 to $30 per day, approximately $5 to $10 per meal. However, the cost depends on the food items you choose. The price remains consistent in most cases, but it will significantly increase as you ascend higher along the trek. The main reason behind this is the need for more sophisticated transportation access, leading to goods being transported by yaks and porters. Overall, the food costs in the EBC trek are lower than those of other trekking routes, such as the Manaslu Circuit trek and Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

Freshness and Hygiene: How Does it Work?

Suffering from food poisoning is the last thing a trekker could hope for while traveling to the Everest Base Camp. It could lead to stomach issues and severe health conditions. However, it would help if you did not worry; the teahouses along the trail ensure fresh and hygienic food.

How Freshness Is Maintained

When dining at the top of the world, the freshness of the food is maintained to cater to the needs and wants of the travelers.

Local Produce: The teahouses use locally grown vegetables and herbs, ensuring the food's ingredients are healthy and nutritious.
Limited Meat: The food items on the menu are limited in the higher elevations of the trek due to challenges regarding safe storage procedures.
Daily Preparation: The teahouse meals are prepared daily, and the stocks are checked to see if they have gone stale.

Hygienic Practices in Food Preparation

Apart from providing healthy meals, ensuring food safety is also a high priority for the teahouses in the Khumbu region.
Boiled Water: The water is boiled to kill harmful bacteria before serving you.
Clean Utensils: Utensils used to deliver food are cleaned and boiled to ensure they are germ-free.
Trained Staff: The staff are trained in food hygiene, including the importance of using clean utensils and washing hands.
Food Storage: Ingredients used to prepare meals are stored in sealed containers to avoid contamination from germs and pests.

Food For Altitude Sickness

As food items during the trek determine your health and well-being, choosing the proper meals will help you overcome illness, including altitude sickness. To avoid it, you must consume foods high in carbohydrates and proteins. Meals rich in carbohydrates need less oxygen for metabolism and reduce fatigue. This is why most trekkers consume dry fruits, nuts, sports drinks, and energy bars. As travelers can get dehydrated quickly at higher altitudes, staying hydrated is also a priority. We suggest you drink at least 2 liters of water daily and include soup, tea, and juices in your diet. Beetroot, garlic soup, or any nitrate-rich food will help you acclimate and keep your body warm and comfortable.

Balanced Diets during the EBC Trek

Maintaining a balanced diet will ensure your body has nutrients and protein. It also fuels your body for the long hike and recovers your muscles at the end of the day. Here are some food items which you must include in your daily diet.

Carbohydrate-rich foods for sustained energy
Veg pasta, Fried rice, Noodles, Oat porridge, Chapati, Rice.
Protein-packed foods for muscle recovery
Lentils, Veg-momo, Protein bars, Nuts, Tofu.
Healthy fats for nourishment and long-lasting fuel
Coconut, Avocado, Nuts and seeds, Olive oil.
Foods that aid acclimatization
Ginger tea, Garlic soup, Herbal tea, Foods rich in iron and vitamin C, and Hydrating fruits.

Sherpa Foods on the Everest Base Camp Trek

The EBC trek allows you to explore and immerse yourself in the traditional Sherpa cuisine. Here are some interesting Sherpa foods that you must try during the expedition.

Tsampa: The traditional Sherpa dish is made from roasted barley flour with butter tea.
Tingmo is a soft steamed bread from wheat flour served as a side dish with curries and stews.
Rildok: Rildok is a Sherpa stew made with mashed potatoes, garlic, onion, chilies, and tomatoes.
Riki Kur: A delicious potato pancake consumed as a carbohydrate source.
Kur: It is a form of Tibetan bread made from flour dough and is often consumed as a side dish or a snack.
Shyaphale: The dish resembles a spring roll filled with meat and vegetables. It is deep-fried, which gives it a crispy texture.
Butter tea: A traditional Sherpa beverage, butter tea is made from yak butter, black tea, and salt.
Yak cheese: Yak cheese is a local specialty of the Khumbu/Everest region. It is a nutritious, protein-rich snack that comes in various forms.

Special Dietary Requirements

The lodges and teahouses along the trail cater to the needs of vegans and vegetarians alike. Most regional establishments do not offer unique dietary options, so people with special requirements can also enjoy the trek. Vegans can choose from oat porridge, chapati, muesli, and mashed potatoes for breakfast. You can have pasta, macaroni, dal, bhat, tarkari, thukpa, and chowmein for lunch and dinner. These meals are not only filling but healthy as well and are a delight to your taste buds. Besides, inform the guide or the trek leader of any intolerances or food allergies. This will ensure the teahouse prepares your meal according to your needs and preferences. Some accommodations even serve dairy-free and gluten-free alternatives, but you must inform them beforehand. This way, the teahouses can accommodate your needs, making the trek experience more enjoyable.

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Everest Base Camp Food - A complete food guide to EBC Trek 2022/2023/2024

Everest Base Camp Trek is always challenging and adventurous. It demands average physical stamina and proper itinerary for the successful accomplishment of the trek. Besides, the selection of the Everest Base Camp food really matters the most. Food plays an important role in energy and nourishment during the long-strenuous trek. If you are planning for the Everest Base Camp Trek then you need to know about the Everest Base Camp food available in this region, what to eat, and what to avoid in the tea houses of the Everest Base Camp Trail. There are many tea houses and lodges in the Everest Region which serve comfortable accommodation and varieties of hygienic food. They even serve the international cuisine cooked by the trained chef at the tourist hubs like Lukla and Namche. But, while selecting the food item in Everest Base Camp Trek , maintain the proper diet plan. Try the typical, tasty, and heavy Nepali dal-bhat which keeps you energetic for 6-7 hours as you have to cover long distance after breakfast and lunch.

What type of food is served in everest base camp trek.

While trekking in the higher elevation, the tea houses serve three-time meals per day which are altitude friendly. The meals include energy giving food and liquid food like rice, cereals, lentils soup, noodles soup, hot tea, potato, etc. The people of this region also eat the same food so that they can overcome the coldness of the region. It is the food that makes the people of this region healthy, strong, and energetic. Better to follow the trekking experts’ advice for the healthy and hygienic Everest Base Camp food diet. Breakfast on Everest Base Camp Trek: According to the health experts, food in the higher elevation boosts energy and reduces the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness. Therefore, trekkers need to choose balanced and hygienic Everest Base Camp food. Most of the expert suggest for Porridge/Oats, potato, bread, tea, coffee, etc as healthy breakfast so that trekkers get stuffed until they reach at the next tea house for lunch. Here is the list of the breakfast available in the tea house along the EBC Trails: Porridge/Oats:

Oat porridge/Muesli
Apple Porridge
Cornflakes and milk
Tsampa Porridge
Rice pudding
Cinnamon Porridge
Honey Porridge

Bread Toasts:

Plain Toasts
Toast bread with eggs
Toast bread with Jam,
Toast bread with honey,
Toast bread with butter, and cheese
French Toast
Plain Omelette
Poached Omelette
Scrambled egg
Cheese Omelette

Chapati/Pancakes:

Plain Chapati
Chocolate Pancake
Regular Pancake
Chapati with eggs, jam, honey
Tibetan pancakes
Chapati with peanuts butter

*Note: These breakfasts maintain glucose, protein, and replenish your body with energy for a longer period of time.

Lunch on Everest Base Camp Trek:

Lunch is the main course of the meal which is served at 10-11 in the morning. The lunch must be healthy and heavy which will keep you energetic throughout the day as you have to depend on the lunch until 7-8 in the evening. The typical Nepal lunch includes boiled rice (Bhat), lentils (dal), vegetables (Tarkari), and pickles (Achar). And there is a saying, “Dal, bhat power 24 hours.” The lunch available on EBC teahouse includes:

Rice Main course:

Veg dal bhat (dal, bhat, achar, Papadum, vegetables, etc)
Non-veg dal bhat (veg dal bhat plus meat item)
Veg fried rice
Egg fried rice
Mix fried rice
Rice with veg curry
Rice with chicken curry
Fried rice with cheese
Fried rice with Tuna fish

Noodles item:

Veg Chow Mein (Fried noodles)
Chicken Chow Mein
Buff Chow Mein
Egg Chow Mein
Mixed Chow Mein
Veg Thukpa (Boiled noodles)
Chicken Thukpa
Buff Thukpa
Mixed Thukpa
Sherpa Stew
Garlic soup

MoMo fried or steamed (Dumplings)

Chicken Momo
Potato Momo
Cheese Momo

Pasta/ Macaronis:

Plain Macaronis
Veg fried Macaronis
Cheese fried Macaronis
Mix Macaronis
Pasta with egg
Pasta with cheese and tomato sauce
Spaghetti with tomato sauce
Spaghetti with cheese
Spaghetti with tuna fish
Chicken Pizza
Mushroom Pizza
Grilled egg sandwich
Grilled cheese Sandwich
Grilled Tuna sandwich
Grilled tomato sandwich

Dinner on Everest Base Camp Trek:

Dinner is served at the tea houses where you stay overnight. After the long day trek, trekkers need to be fueled with the delicious and heavy meal for the energy. Normally, every tea house on the trail offers the same meals for the trekkers which are similar to the lunch. Either you can go for the typical Nepali dal bhat or other mentioned food items for dinner. What to eat and what not to eat in Everest Base Camp Trek? Trekking in the higher altitude for more than 8-10 hours per day really requires adequate energy on the body. For this, trekkers need healthy and hygienic food along with plenty of fluid during the entire trek. What to eat?

Start the trek with the healthy breakfast which contains enough amount of Carbohydrate, vitamin, protein, etc.
Always eat balanced and hygienic lunch and dinner.
Drink plenty of liquid, fluids, soup, and water to keep hydrated during the trek. Drink at least 3-4 liters of fluid. It helps to avoid altitude sickness and muscle cramps.
Take chocolate bars and peanuts jam during the break for the instant energy. Add fruits on your meals item too.
Dry foods like cashew, almonds, walnut, raisins, etc provides vitamin, protein, fiber, minerals, and enough nutrition.

What not to eat during Trek?

Meat : Avoid meat items if possible. All the Everest Base Camp food is carried on the aircraft from Kathmandu to Lukla and supplied to the tea houses carrying on the back of mules/yaks. They don’t refrigerate the meat; rather, they dry it in the sun or in the smoke of the kitchen. So, for the health perspective, meat should be avoided during the trek.
Alcoholic beverages/Smoking : Consumption of alcohol is strictly forbidden in EBC Trek as it is fatal. Alcohol dehydrates the body which raises the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness . Also, smoking causes breathing problem. So, better to keep abstain from these things.
Junk food: Experts recommend us not to eat the food like chips, burger, pizza, raw noodles, etc which is wrapped in the packet or can. These foods increase the gastritis and inflammation in the body and make uneasy to walk.
Caffeine and sugary food: Eating too much sugary food, sweet chocolates, tea, or coffee can reduce the energy and makes lethargic. Avoid these unnecessary items from the list.

Everest Base Camp food cost:

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Food On The Everest Base Camp Trek: What To Expect

Food on the everest base camp trek, breakfast options, common breakfast foods.

Porridge/Oats : A warm bowl of oat porridge is a classic start to a chilly Himalayan morning. It’s rich in fibre and keeps you full for longer.

Toast Varieties : Whether it’s plain toast or toast with eggs, jam, honey, or even cheese, you’ve got options. It’s a quick and easy way to get some carbs into your system.

Eggs : Boiled, scrambled, or in an omelette—eggs offer the protein you’ll need for those strenuous climbs.

Tibetan Pancakes : A local delicacy, these are thicker than your average pancake and offer a unique taste of the region.

Tea/Coffee : A hot beverage is essential for waking you up and keeping you hydrated.

Importance of a Hearty Breakfast

Lunch to Keep You Going

Typical Lunch Options

Dal Bhat : This traditional Nepali dish is a powerhouse of nutrition. It includes rice, lentil soup, and various vegetable curries. Sometimes, it comes with a side of pickled vegetables or meat curry.

Fried Rice : Whether it’s veggie, egg, or even chicken fried rice, this dish is a quick source of energy that’s both filling and delicious.

Noodle Dishes : From Chow Mein to Thukpa (a local noodle soup), noodles are popular. They’re easy to digest and provide the carbs you need.

Sandwiches : For those who prefer a taste of home, grilled sandwiches with various fillings like cheese, egg, or even tuna are available.

Local Soups : Garlic soup is a local favourite for its taste and supposed benefits in helping with altitude sickness.

Timing and Why It’s Crucial

Dinner: The Final Frontier

Common dinner foods.

Dal Bhat : Yes, it’s back! This staple is often served for dinner as well, but sometimes with a twist—like a side of fried fish or a different type of lentil soup.

Pasta Dishes : From spaghetti to macaroni, pasta is a popular dinner choice. It’s filling and provides the carbs you’ll need to replenish your energy.

Momos : These Tibetan dumplings are a dinner favourite. Stuffed with meat or vegetables, they’re a tasty way to end the day.

Sherpa Stew : This local dish is warming and filling, a mix of vegetables and meat in a hearty broth.

Pizza : Believe it or not, pizza is available at some tea houses. It’s a comforting taste of the familiar in an unfamiliar landscape.

How Dinner Differs from Other Meals

What to do if you have dietary requirements.

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Vegetarian and Non-Vegetarian Options

Vegetarian : The good news is that many traditional Nepali dishes, like Dal Bhat, are naturally vegetarian. You’ll also find a variety of vegetable-based dishes like vegetable curry, fried rice, and even vegetarian momos.

Non-Vegetarian : While meat options are available, it’s essential to note that as you ascend, the freshness of meat can become questionable. However, dishes like chicken curry and fish are often on the menu at lower altitudes.

Special Dietary Needs

Gluten-Free : While the menu may not explicitly list gluten-free options, dishes like rice and lentil soup are naturally gluten-free. Always double-check with the tea house to ensure no cross-contamination.

Vegan : Vegan options are limited but possible to find. Lentil soup, vegetable curries, and rice are your best bets. Again, confirming with the tea house that no ghee or butter is used in the preparation is a good idea.

Nut Allergies : Nut-based dishes are uncommon, but it’s always better to specify your allergy to the tea house staff.

Lactose Intolerance : Dairy is commonly used in Nepali cuisine, especially in tea and some desserts. Make sure to ask for dairy-free alternatives where possible.

Local vs International Cuisine: A Culinary Journey from the Himalayas to Home

Availability of local nepali dishes.

Dal Bhat : This dish is the cornerstone of Nepali cuisine and is available at almost every tea house you’ll encounter.

Momos : These delicious dumplings are a must-try, often filled with either vegetables or meat.

Thukpa : This hearty noodle soup is a Tibetan dish that has found a home in Nepali kitchens. It’s incredibly comforting in the cold mountain air.

Sherpa Stew : Named after the famed mountain community, this stew is a mix of meat and vegetables, perfect for warming you up after a long day.

Where to Find International Cuisine

Pasta and Pizza : Surprisingly, Italian dishes are quite popular in the tea houses. They’re a comforting alternative if you’re craving something familiar.

Sandwiches : From tuna to grilled cheese, sandwiches offer a quick and easy Western meal option.

Chinese Dishes : You’ll often find fried rice and noodle dishes that are more Chinese-inspired than authentically Nepali.

Bakeries : In some larger villages like Namche Bazaar, you’ll find bakeries offering pastries and even apple pie!

Freshness and Hygiene: How Does it Work?

How freshness is maintained.

Local Produce : Many tea houses use locally sourced vegetables and herbs, ensuring the ingredients are as fresh as possible.

Limited Meat : As you ascend, you’ll notice fewer meat options on the menu. This is because storing meat safely at higher altitudes becomes increasingly challenging.

Daily Preparation : Food is often prepared daily to ensure its freshness. Leftovers are rarely, if ever, served to guests.

Hygienic Practices in Food Preparation

Boiled Water : Whether for cooking or making tea, water is always boiled to kill harmful bacteria.

Clean Utensils : Utensils are thoroughly cleaned and often boiled to ensure they are germ-free.

Trained Staff : The staff at tea houses are trained in basic food hygiene, including the importance of washing hands and using clean utensils.

Food Storage : Ingredients are stored in sealed containers to protect them from contamination and pests.

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LIVING THE DREAM

What is the Food on the Everest Base Camp Trek?

Published by Angie . Last Updated on August 5, 2022.

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As we were preparing for our recent trek to Mt Everest Base Camp, I was immensely curious as to what kind of food we would be eating for 12 days.

Given that practically every resource needed in the villages along the trekking route has to be carried in on the backs of an insanely strong Nepali or on a yak, I was expecting bland and inedible mush.

While the food on Everest base camp trek was obviously no five-star dining experience, it was much more satisfying and tasty than we could have ever expected. So, what should you eat and what should you avoid in the tea houses on the Everest Base Camp trek?

The following are our must haves and least favorites.

Drinks on the Everest Base Camp Trek

You probably know that you should avoid caffeine and alcohol while trekking at high altitudes, so what does that leave for your beverage choices?

Most tea houses have various fruit flavored powders that they mix with hot water. Hot lemon and hot orange were common, but hot mango was a rare treat. Hot water and sliced ginger is also usually an option, which is especially helpful if things aren’t quite right with your stomach.

Generally speaking, if the tea is called “Hot [Flavor]” it is just powder, but if it is “[Flavor] Tea” it will be flavored black tea and will be caffeinated.

We brought our own teas to drink on the trek, but after realizing that you still have to pay for hot water, we didn’t drink any of them. On the way down, in Namche and Lukla, we made sure to enjoy some celebratory Everest beers at inflated prices to match.

Breakfast for Everest Hiking

Swiss Rosti with Egg on Everest Base Camp Trek

Most tea houses offer a set breakfast which usually consists of toast, eggs, potatoes, and tea or coffee. It gets pretty monotonous but it’s a fairly good meal to keep you trekking for a few hours.

In some tea houses you can get freshly made chapati instead of toast, which is a nice change of pace. Jam and honey are usually available, but forgo the butter- it’s always frozen and impossible to spread.

Porridge is another breakfast item, but the topping options become meager as you get to higher altitudes. On one of our acclimatization days we tried the pancakes that are offered just about everywhere.

They’re fluffy and over an inch thick! The chocolate variety was not so chocolatey, but the apple version with honey on top was pretty good.

One final breakfast tip- if you want your eggs over easy or sunny-side up, ask for them “one side fried.” It’ll still probably be cooked the whole way through, but it is the best you can do.

Sherpa Stew

Sherpa stew is on nearly every menu, and each tea house has its own unique recipe. In some places it tasted like a spicy veggie curry, while in others it was more like a simple veggie stew.

Our favorite was at Hotel Everest in Namche- it was full of veggies (greens, carrots, green beans) plus several kinds of beans and thin, square noodles.

Carb it Up with Nepali Food

For lunch and dinner entrees, your best option is to carb it up with potatoes, noodles, pasta, or rice. You can add vegetables (usually carrots and cabbage), eggs, cheese, or any combination of these to your carb of choice.

Yep, it gets old pretty fast, but there is some evidence that consuming carbohydrates can help you acclimatize faster. For something a little different, try the rosti with eggs on top for an added protein boost.

Dal Baht Power for Everest Trekking

If you’re really hungry, then it’s gotta be dal baht: rice, lentil soup, curried potatoes with veggies, greens, and a papad. The best part? You can get seconds of anything you want (except the papad) for free!

As we went higher up in altitude the seasonings became more bland and the variety of veggies was less and less, but it was still decent for a quick fill that lasts.

Fried Mars Bars

Deep Fried Mars Bar Everest Base Camp Trek

As we started to descend on the trek we noticed our appetite increased dramatically (even though we hadn’t really noticed it disappearing on the way up). That can only mean one thing: we had room for dessert!

In Tengboche we eyed something the table next to us ordered and found out it was a fried Mars bar.

We promptly ordered one and it was seriously heaven. We never noticed it before on the menu because it’s called a “Mars roll” which we thought just meant candy bar. But no!

It’s a Mars bar wrapped in a chapatti-like dough and deep fried until the inside is a chocolatey, caramely mess.

What Not to Eat While Trekking

You probably know that all meat has to be flown in to Lukla and then carried up (without refrigeration) to its final destination, which can sometimes take days. Therefore, it’s best to steer clear of meat on the trek.

It’s also best to avoid anything on the menu that’s “western”- Jeremy got really sick after eating a pizza for lunch one day. Another menu item that was disappointing was the spring rolls.

We saw someone order them in Lobuche and they were huge and filled to the brim with veggies, but when I ordered them in Namche when I was starving they were tiny and oily and lacking in the veggie department.

Everest Beer on Everest Base Camp Trek (Going Down)

Overall we were pleasantly surprised by the food on the Everest Base Camp trek, especially when you consider everything is cooked using propane that’s carried up many miles by big hairy yaks.

Still, the food did get pretty repetitive, and we were especially happy to get back to a wider variety of fruits and vegetables in Kathmandu.

And of course, we couldn’t resist sinking our teeth into a nice juicy steak when we returned, too!

About Angie

About the Author: Angie is a contributing author. She has been to nearly 60 countries and seeks out the best restaurants, bars, bakeries, and other unique food items wherever she goes- often with her husband, Jeremy.

12 thoughts on “What is the Food on the Everest Base Camp Trek?”

What about vegemite???

I can’t say I’ve seen vegemite anywhere outside of the backpack of a few Australian friends. Maybe someone on the trail will have a jar with them!

Hi, We are planning our trek to EBC in Dec16 and are busy investigating which tour operator to trek with. As a family of 4 with kids age 12&15 we are trying to stretch our budget and wonder if you can offer any advise on weather you feel it will be better value to go with a company that include all meals at the teahouses. Based on the menu you have shown and taking into account higher prices further up the mountain it appears it may be better for us to go all inclusive. Any advise you can give would be appreciated. Many thanks Martyn South Australia

Hi Martyn, we definitely found value in the all inclusive options. I think we ended up saving more money than others who went with cheaper packages and paid as they went, but even if we didn’t we wouldn’t have been off by much and it was quite convenient to not have to worry about it during the entire trek as virtually everything was included with a few small exceptions. It was nice to not have to worry about paying for meals and other items while on the trek so we could focus on hiking and relaxing when at the teahouses.

We are going to trek to Base Camp in April and i’m so excited but weary of the food also. This post has made me feel a lot better about it so thanks for the advice!!

Happy to help! I thoroughly recommend getting mini candy bars to take with you too. One or two Mars or Snickers bars a day are perfect for when you need quick sugar too!

those dumplings look delicious! and did the prices for food go up as you got closer to base camp? on the annapurna circuit, prices for food were around double at the higher altitude towns than the lower ones

I’d say that is pretty accurate for Base Camp as well. That menu was from Namche which is the 2nd lowest city out of the 8 days you trek up. It may not be exactly double, but pretty close. Some things, like candy bars and sodas, become obscenely expensive where as meals only go up by the 2x figure.

Great info. This trek is something Jim and I still need to do…so we’ll tuck this info away…Do you think taking peanut butter would help?

Thanks for bringing that up, we forgot to mention it in the post. Many of the tea houses have condiments available for free, oftentimes including jam, ketchup, and chili sauce. Some have also had peanut butter and soy sauce, and many, but not all, had peanut butter on the menu items that you could pay for (like for pancakes). I’m sure if you asked they’d either charge a bit or give you some for free.

Having a condiment like that (or for me, chili sauce) made all the difference. We had also bought a bottle of honey to take with us but left it in Kathmandu because it was extra weight we had no room for. Many tea houses even had that available for free too (but again, not all)

Hey – how much did you spend in total on food across the 12 days?

Our costs were lumped into our guide price so we did not see the exact charges out of pocket. I’d imagine it would be around $200-$250 per person if I had to guess.

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Food and drinks on everest base camp trek.

24-Apr-2016

You think of the glittering and humongous mountains, the perennial rivers and dense forests, the blooming rhododendron flowers, and smiling locals when you think of Everest Base Camp Trek, isn’t it? There is something delicious to think about as well. Yes, the food! Whether a foodie that loves to explore new cuisines everywhere they go or someone with a lesser obsession for food, you just can’t ignore the importance of food while you go for a trek like that of Everest Base Camp Trek . Of course, you are on a trek and you need food to continue the trek. Pause. Not just food, rather proper food. In a trek like Everest Base Camp Trek, you have to follow some dos and don’ts before you savor the delicacy of cuisines available en route. Let’s consider some of the points related to food as you trek in the trails of Everest Base Camp.

What to eat (or drink)?

Anything that tastes good? No. Actually, the question should be what to eat so that you don’t get sick just because had the wrong dish. To name few food items, the following food items are popular among the trekkers, porters, and guides due to their suitability for the trek.

Rice and Lentil Dish

With the common name of ‘Dal Bhaat’, this is the most popular staple of Nepal and the most plentiful dish on the road to the Everest Base Camp. Generally served in lunch and dinner, this meal has rice (bhaat), lentil soup (dal), vegetables, and optionally some pickles. You can have it refilled on your rice, lentil soups, and vegetables. This makes it an easy food option for guides, trekkers, and porters. Ever heard of the tagline ‘Dal Bhaat power, twenty-four hour’? So, have this popular dish and fuel yourself on your dream trek.

Most of the teahouses serve you toast, eggs, and potatoes as your breakfast. Have it. You may find this dish monotonous during your entire journey but it is a good option to keep you charged for a couple of hours. You may have some variations in the form of chapatti instead of toast or you may have jam, honey, or butter with toast or chapatti. You may find porridge in some lodges. Have breakfast that helps you with trekking. Don’t underestimate the power of a good breakfast!

Have some ‘Carbo-loading’

You have another option for lunch and dinner entrees; in fact, the best option is to add up carbohydrates such as potatoes, noodles, pasta or rice and vegetables, eggs, cheese, or any combination of these. It is said that having carbohydrates can help you acclimatize faster. So why not try this?

How can we forget this when we go for a trek like that of Everest Base Camp Trek? Get hydrated properly during the trek as you will be thirsty pretty often while trekking and not getting enough fluid can hamper the success of your trek. To ward off the negative effects of dehydration and altitude sickness you need to keep ingesting yourself regularly with water. Be hydrated always.

What not to eat (or drink)?

You may ask is there something to refrain from when it comes to food. Yes, there are few items you should avoid eating or drinking. Here goes the list.

This popular recreational drink is a strict no when it comes to trekking in the Everest Base Camp Trek or any other trekking destination. Alcohol and other beverages slow down the acclimatization effort of yours and AMS is not something that can be taken lightly. A night of partying in Namche on your way to Everest Base Camp isn’t worth turning your adventure into an expensive nightmare. Say no to alcohol, especially when you are trekking up to mountains. Post-trek celebration is another thing.

Ask one reason to avoid meat and you can find couple more reasons. The first reason is the quality of meat as said earlier. You never know how old the meat is which might have spent few days in cold storage and many more days on the back of a porter. I’ll give another reason that has a more practical use. Meat is expensive up there in the lap of Mount Everest. So why spend unnecessarily? Thirdly, in Nepal, you don’t find many varieties. If you are fond of the meat of a cow, a big NO to you because Cow is the holy animal of the Hindus and the national animal of Nepal. Considering all these things, maybe you should go vegan for few days of trekking. Isn’t it?

We can, thus, say that enjoying different food tastes on a trek is fun but the main thing is to have the right choice of food that energizes you and does not hold you back. When you go for a dream trek like Everest Base Camp Trek, be wise while having food. Consult with the trekking guide, assess the impact of that food on your body, and make sure that the food you eat is healthy and hygienic. Have a tasty cuisine in the Everest region and a fun-filled trekking experience.

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Food on the Everest Base Camp Trek

For many, the Everest Base Camp Trek is the experience of a lifetime.

As with any trek in a foreign country, food plays a big role in learning the culture of the region as well as nourishing you for the long days spent trekking through the hilly, barren terrain.

Luckily for those on the Everest Base Camp Trek and its variants, food is readily available at the many tea houses dotted along the trails – small hotel-like dwellings that provide trekkers with a bed and a hot meal for the night. Our detailed article on tea houses will tell you all you need to know about them.

You might think that because you don’t have to worry about preparing food on the trek, there’s nothing more to know? Not quite.

The remoteness of the Everest region and the cultural traditions of the Buddhist Sherpas mean that eating breakfast, lunch and dinner is no longer the simple affair it may be back home.

There are considerations that must be taken into account, all of which will be detailed in this article in an FAQ approach.

EBC Trek Food – FAQs

What type of food is served in the tea houses?

Because the region is remote and all food has to be walked up to the various villages, most meals tend to be made up of non-perishable ingredients – cereals, rice and grains will form the staple of most dishes. The most common side to go along with the staple cereal is a cooked lentil soup called Dal. Along with steamed rice, this forms Nepal’s most famous dish – one sure to be found at all tea houses – Dal bhat.

Other dishes on the menu tend to be re-arrangements of dal bhat with a different staple side, or a soup made from different vegetables. You’ll soon see that range of food on offer is very limited!

What about meat?

You will find meat on the menus of most tea houses, although as a rule of thumb we recommend staying away from meat products, especially at higher altitudes. Because all the meat has to be carried, by foot or by yak, up from the lower reaches of the mountain to the villages, the freshness cannot be guaranteed.

There are animals which live on the mountain, such as yak – a common steak dish – but the religion of the locals prohibits the slaughtering of animals in the area. All meat is flown into Lukla , then walked up the mountain, adding to the risk of meat that is not fresh.

How fresh is the food in general?

The freshness of all food in the Everest region will never be great because of how remote it is and how limited access to the region is. A common complaint among trekkers is that the food was not as fresh as they would have liked, but this is largely unavoidable and is part and parcel of trekking in the Himalayas.

One way to try and ensure you are getting fresh food is to stay at tea houses that are popular or that look busy and crowded. They will usually accommodate the most people and so will get food delivered to their doors more frequently.

Will there be fish, eggs and fruit?

Seafood is very uncommon on the trek and it’s not hard to see why! If you’re lucky, your tea house will provide the option of a cooked breakfast with eggs and hash browns, but this can’t be guaranteed. Porridge, cereal and toast are more reliable members of the breakfast menu.

Fruit does not grow at such extreme altitudes so you won’t find much in the fresh fruit bowl. More common are vegetables, with the majority of dishes in the tea houses actually being vegetarian. That being said, the variety of vegetables is not world class – lentils and green veggies like spinach are common.

Will I get 3 meals a day?

Yes! For the majority of the trek, you will get three sit-down meals in tea houses with only the remote parts of the trek requiring you to skip the odd lunch. As said before, breakfast involves porridge, tea and possibly some egg to get you ready for your day’s trekking. Breakfast is usually eaten at around 8am, so get ready for some early starts!

For lunch you will stop at one of the tea houses you pass during your day of trekking. The lunch menu will closely resemble the dinner menu (if not exactly the same), so you can expect the familiar rice and lentil dishes such as Dal bhat as well as the popular garlic soup – thought to prevent the onset of altitude sickness .

Dinner is typically a communal affair in the Himalayas, so you will join many trekkers as you sit down around a large stove and chat about the day’s affairs. The usual meals will be on offer, as well as some tea and even beer to wash it all down.

How much is food on the Everest Base Camp trek?

The price of a meal in a tea house is about 600-900 rupees ($5-$7), depending on what you order. Prices tend to increase the higher you get as it is more difficult to source ingredients at these remote accommodations. You should budget between $500-$800 for food and drinks on the trek.

Be sure to bring cash (dollars or rupees) to pay the tea houses.

What can I drink while on the trek?

If you’re trekking with a tour operator , they will provide filtered water for the duration of the trek, however, bottled water can be purchased at most tea houses and other small shops along the route. The tea houses themselves will fetch water from the local stream, which is boiled and then used to make tea, coffee and for cooking purposes.

If you’re not comfortable with drinking boiled water from the streams, bring some water purification tablets with you. Drinking tap water without boiling it is not recommended, especially for foreigners to Nepal.

Staying hydrated at altitude is very important so we recommend drinking between 3 and 4 litres of water per day. This can be in the form of bottled water, tea and soup. Remember to bring your own tea bags, as tea houses will only provide 1 bag per tea pot – a travesty if I’m honest!

EBC Trek Food – Popular Dishes

This staple dish is what gets most travellers through their 2-3 weeks in the mountains! It is made up of a generous helping of steamed rice served alongside a lentil soup that contains spinach, chilli, garlic and ginger. It’s got a strong flavour but is very nourishing and will provide you with some much-needed energy.

Despite recommending that you stay away from meat, yak steaks can be very tasty and safe if fresh. If you check with your guide, they will be able to confirm the freshness of the meat. The steak is usually served with some cheesy sauce to give your body some essential protein!

Garlic soup

The popular dish is exactly what its name suggests – a soup made from garlic! This deceitfully tasty dish is thought to prevent the onset of altitude sickness and so is very popular mong trekkers and locals alike.

Nepalese bread

Almost a cross between a roti, naan and a pizza base, Nepalese bread is cooked in the local tea houses and is the perfect complement to most dishes. It’s also great to snack on while trekking so leave some space in your backpack.

Chinese food

In recent years, Asian (and specifically Chinese) cuisine has become increasingly popular in the tea houses. Chow mein and momo, a form of dumpling, are regulars on the menu and offer a welcoming break from the monotonous Dal Bhat after a few day’s trekking!

The food can get a little bit repetitive but that is a small price to pay to spend 2 weeks in one of the most beautiful parts of this earth. Enjoy trekking!

Mark Whitman

Hi, I'm Mark! Welcome to EBC Trek Guide - the Web's No.1 Trekking Guide to Everest Base Camp. I have trekked all over Nepal, but the Everest region remains my favourite. I hope you find all the answers you are looking for on this site. If you have any questions don't hesitate to drop a comment below! Happy Trekking!

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Food and Drinks on the Everest Base Camp Trek

September 4, 2022
Everest Base Camp

When you think of hiking or trekking to Everest Base Camp , the last thing that probably comes to mind is food. But just like on any other hike, your body needs nourishment along the way to keep up your energy levels. What kind of food can you expect on an

trek? And what are the best eating strategies for making the most of your trek? Read on for all the details!

Food and drinks in Everest Base Camp trek

Where do you eat?

You will be eating most of your meals in local teahouses . These are simple lodges that provide basic accommodation and food for trekkers. The teahouses are usually family-run businesses, and the food is prepared fresh using local ingredients.

Each tea house has a dining room where you will take your meals. Meals are typically served, family-style, at large tables with other trekkers. This is a great opportunity to meet new people and learn about their experiences on the trail!

Tea houses during everest trekking guide

However, it’s important to note that not all guesthouses are created equal. Some have better food than others, and some trekkers may find the food quality lacking. This is often because guesthouses are located in remote areas with limited access to fresh ingredients.

What kind of food can you expect?

The menu at teahouses is usually quite limited, with just a handful of dishes to choose from. The most common dish is dal bhat , a traditional Nepali meal of rice and lentils. You will also find some Tibetan dishes like momos (dumplings) and thukpa (noodle soup).

You can expect oatmeal, pancakes, eggs, and toast for breakfast. And, of course, no meal is complete without a cup of hot tea!

Dal Bhat-a traditional nepali food everest base camp trek

Drinking water on the Everest Base Camp Trek

It is very important to stay hydrated while trekking, especially at high altitudes. The best way to do this is to drink plenty of water throughout the day. You should aim to drink at least four liters (about one gallon) of water daily.

The tap water in Nepal is unsafe to drink, so you must purchase bottled water. You can buy water at most guesthouses, but it is more expensive than buying it in town. We recommend that you stock up on water before starting your trek.

Another option is to use a water filter or purifier. This is a great way to save money and reduce your plastic waste. The Sawyer Mini Water Filter is a great option for filtering water on the go.

What about other drinks?

In addition to water, you will also want to drink plenty of hot tea and fluids with electrolytes. These will help you stay hydrated and prevent altitude sickness. You can buy bottled or canned soda and beer at most guesthouses, but they are expensive.

A better option is to bring your own tea bags and instant coffee. This is a great way to save money and enjoy a hot drink after a long day on the trail.

Is meat available?

Yes, you can find meat dishes at most guesthouses. However, they are usually quite expensive. The most common meats are chicken and yak . Whether you are vegetarian or vegan, there are plenty of options available. Just be sure to let your server know in advance so that they can prepare a meal for you.

What about snacks?

You will probably get hungry between meals, so it’s a good idea to bring some snacks with you. Popular trekking snacks include energy bars, trail mix, dried fruit, and nuts. You can also buy snacks at most guesthouses, but they are usually more expensive than buying them in town.

When is the best time to eat?

You will be doing a lot of walking during your trek, so eating enough is important to keep your energy levels up. We recommend you have a big breakfast before starting your hike for the day. This will give you the energy to make it up steep hills and through tough trails.

You should also eat a big dinner because you will need to refuel after a long day of trekking. If you are hiking in the morning, we recommend having a light breakfast and packing some snacks for the trail.

How fresh is the food in Everest Base Camp Trek?

The food quality at guesthouses can vary depending on the location. The food might not be as fresh as you would like in remote areas because of limited access to ingredients. However, in general, the food is fairly fresh and tasty. You will just need to be prepared for some dishes that might not be as good as others.

What about food safety?

The food safety standards in Nepal are not as high as those in developed countries. This means you must be more careful about what you eat and drink. Always wash your hands often, and avoid eating raw fruits and vegetables. It is also a good idea to bring hand sanitizer and wipes before meals.

What Shouldn’t You Eat During a Trek?

You might wonder what food and drinks you should avoid during your trek. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Avoid drinking water from streams or rivers unless you have boiled it first. The water can contain harmful bacteria that can make you sick.
Don’t eat raw vegetables or fruits unless you have peeled them yourself.
Be careful of street food vendors. Ensure that the food is cooked fresh and that the vendor uses clean utensils.
Avoid dairy products, as they can be difficult to digest.
Lastly, limit your salt intake, as it can lead to dehydration.
Avoid eating meat that is not cooked all the way through. This is especially important if you are trekking in remote areas where food safety standards are not as high.

Costs of Food and Drinks on the Trek

Now that you know what to eat and drink let’s talk about how much it will cost you.

Water: You should plan on drinking at least four liters of water per day. A liter of water costs around $0.50 per liter.
Beer: Canned drinks and beer are also available, but they tend to be more expensive, costing around $7-$15 per can or bottle.
Meals: A basic meal of dal bhat (rice and lentils) costs around $0.50-$0.70 per plate. If you want something more substantial, such as chicken or mutton curry, expect to pay around $0.70-$0.90 per plate.
Snacks: Chips, candy bars, and other snacks are available for purchase along the trail. Prices range from $0.50-$15 per item.

Should you eat Meat along the Everest Trek?

There are many different opinions on whether or not meat should be eaten while trekking. Some people believe getting the protein and other nutrients the body needs is necessary. Others believe it is better to avoid meat because it is more difficult to digest and can cause gastrointestinal problems. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to eat meat while trekking is a personal one. If you do decide to eat meat, it is important to make sure that it is cooked properly to avoid any foodborne illnesses.

Altitude Sickness and Food

Food and drink are important considerations on the Everest Base Camp trek . The higher you go, the more difficult it is to digest food and stay hydrated. At high altitudes, your body needs time to acclimatize and adjust to the lack of oxygen in the air.

Most trekkers will experience some level of altitude sickness , especially if they are not used to hiking at high altitudes. The symptoms of altitude sickness can range from mild discomfort to severe and even life-threatening.

Eat more Carbs

Eating more carbohydrates is one of the best ways to combat altitude sickness. Carb-rich foods help your body process oxygen better and give you more energy.

Stay Hydrated

It is also important to stay hydrated on the trek. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol. Alcohol will dehydrate your body and can worsen altitude sickness symptoms.

Garlic soup:

If you are suffering from altitude sickness, garlic soup is thought to be helpful. This traditional Nepali dish is made with garlic, ginger, and onion.

Avoid alcohol and caffeine:

You should avoid alcohol and caffeine while trekking, as they can dehydrate you and worsen altitude sickness.

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Trekking to the Everest Base Camp can be a challenging but rewarding experience. It is important to be prepared for the trek’s physical and mental demands and to consider the effects of high altitude on the body. In this article, we have highlighted key points to remember when planning your food and drink intake while trekking in Everest Base Camp. We hope you find this information useful and helpful as you prepare for your journey. Thank you for reading!

If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to post them below. We would love to hear from you!

Happy trekking!

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Food During Everest Base Camp Treks

Last Updated on Apr 11, 2024

The Everest base camp trek is an amazing journey to the base camp of Mount Everest that offers a breathtaking view of the Himalayas as well as the delicious traditional food of Nepal. The food you eat along the way is just as interesting and gives you a look into the rich cultures of Nepal and the Sherpa people.

The food that you eat during your journey to Himalays isn't just something to eat but it's a way to connect with the land, the people who live there, and their traditions.

Nepali food, which is known for being simple but full of taste, is a big part of the trekking diet. The common lentil soup with rice, called Dal Bhat, is more than just a meal. It's a sign of kindness and plenty. After a long day of hiking, momos, which are steamed dumplings filled with meat or veggies, are a nice treat.

In the cold mountain air, thukpa, a hearty noodle soup, makes you feel better. When eaten in tea houses along the trail, these dishes feed both the body and the spirit, keeping trekkers going on their difficult trip.

There are cozy lodges called "tea houses" along the trekking route. At these houses, you can eat delicious local food and experience the friendly kindness of the Sherpa people. A hearty stew full of veggies and sometimes meat makes Sherpa Stew a healthy and filling meal.

Tibetan bread is a simple pancake that goes well with a hot cup of tea and a view of the mountains. Yak cheese is a specialty of the area and gives many dishes a unique taste. This shows how varied the food is in the Himalayas.

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Authentic nepalese food.

Nepal has a lot of different cultures and landscapes, and its food history shows this. As you move along the trails of the trek to Everest Base Camp , you will come across a wide range of tasty traditional Nepali dishes that provide food and a taste of the area's flavors.

Dal Bhat: The Staple Dish

In Nepal, Dal Bhat is more than just a meal. It's a way of life. It has steamed rice (bhat) and lentil soup (dal), as well as different veggie curries, pickles, and sometimes meat or fish. This food is good for you and has the right amount of carbohydrates, proteins, and important nutrients. It's a great choice for trekking in the Himalayas , which has some very rough terrain. Dal Bhat is a favorite among both locals and tourists because it is easy to make and can be used in many ways.

Momos: Nepali Dumplings

No trip through Nepal's food scene would be complete without trying Momos, the country's famous dumplings. You can either steam or fry these tasty dough balls filled with ground meat or veggies until they are just right. Momos are often served with hot dipping sauces that are made from tomatoes, chilies, and other spices. These sauces give the already tasty momos an extra kick. Momos are a must-try treat that perfectly captures the spirit of Nepali street food culture. They can be eaten as a quick snack or a hearty meal.

Thukpa: Noodle Soup

Originating from the Tibetan region, thukpa has become a popular comfort food across Nepal, especially in the mountainous regions. This hearty noodle soup is made with a savory broth, vegetables, meat (usually chicken or mutton), and hand-pulled noodles. Packed with warmth and flavor, Thukpa provides trekkers with much-needed sustenance and comfort, particularly on cold days or high-altitude nights. Its rich aroma and satisfying taste make it a favorite among locals and trekkers seeking a wholesome meal that warms both the body and soul.

Gundruk: Fermented Green Vegetables

Gundruk is a traditional soured vegetable dish that has a special place in Nepali food. Usually made from fresh greens like spinach, radish, or mustard greens, Gundruk goes through fermentation, which makes it taste better and gives it more nutrients. Along the Everest Base Camp Trek , trekkers may find Gundruk as a side dish or mixed into soups and stews. It adds a unique flavor and crunch to meals, and its probiotic qualities help with digestion, making it a popular choice among locals who want to keep their guts healthy.

Tea House Delicacies

The teshouse during Everest Trekking trial in the middle of the himalayas not only offer accommodation but also a taste of the unique food the the region. Here are some delicious foods that travelers must enjoy at tea houses along the way:

Sherpa Stew: Hearty and Nourishing

As hikers go higher into the mountains, they need food and clothing more than anything else. Sherpa stew is a hearty and healthy meal that makes you feel good inside and out. Sherpa stew is a comforting mix of flavors and textures. It is made with a rich broth, tender chunks of meat (usually yak or chicken), potatoes, and a wide range of local veggies. This healthy meal is full of nutrients that are important for high-altitude trekking. It gives you energy and keeps your body ready for the hard trip ahead.

Tibetan Bread: A Simple and Satisfying Snack

"Khapse," which is Tibetan for bread, is a simple but filling snack that you can find at tea houses along the trek. Tibetan bread is usually fried or cooked until it turns golden. It is made from simple things like flour, water, salt, and sometimes butter or yak milk. The dense texture and mild taste make it go well with hot drinks and make it easy for tired hikers to get something to eat quickly. Every bite of Tibetan bread is a treat, whether it's eaten by itself or with a drop of local honey or jam.

Yak Cheese: Unique Flavor of the Region

Yak cheese, which comes from the milk of the strong Himalayan yak, is very important in the food of that area. Along the trek, this unique treat can be tried at tea houses. It is usually given with Tibetan bread or mixed into other dishes. Yak cheese has a strong flavor and a unique sourness that make you think of the rough land it comes from. It gives trekkers a tasty and healthy snack that keeps them going on their trip through the Himalayas because it is high in protein and important nutrients.

Tsampa Porridge: Nutritious Breakfast Option

Tsampa is a traditional Tibetan food made from roasted barley flour that is known for being healthy and giving people energy. For trekkers getting ready for another day of adventure, Tsampa porridge is a healthy and filling meal that can be made with hot water or milk and sweetened with honey or sugar. Its earthy taste and creamy texture make it a comforting way to start the day, getting trekkers ready for the difficulties that lie ahead.

Hydration and Refreshments

During the difficult EBC Trek , drinking water and snacks are very important for keeping your energy up and staying refreshed. Trekkers come across different drinks along the way that not only satisfy their thirst but also help them feel better and re-energized as they deal with the difficult terrain and high altitude. Here are three choices that stand out:

Butter Tea: Traditional Himalayan Beverage

Butter tea, which is also called "suja" or "po cha," is an important part of Himalayan culture, and the Sherpa people drink it all the time. Strong black tea, salt, and yak butter are mixed in this unique drink to make a rich, smooth drink that keeps you warm and fed in the cold mountain weather. Adding butter makes it a great choice for trekking tired people after a long day on the road because it gives them energy when they need it. Even though it has a strange taste, butter tea quickly becomes a favorite comfort drink for many people starting the Everest Base Camp Trekking .

Lemon Tea: Refreshing and Rejuvenating

Even though the Himalayas are rough and high, a simple but refreshing drink like lemon tea can do wonders for waking up tired bodies and lifting emotions. When you steep fresh lemon juice and tea leaves in hot water to make lemon tea, you get a burst of citrus flavor and a small caffeine boost to fight fatigue. Because it's light and energizing, it's a great choice for staying hydrated during breaks on the trail or as a morning pick-me-up before starting the day's hike. Trekkers often feel better when they drink lemon tea after a long day of exploring the beautiful Everest area .

Hot Cocoa: Comfort in a Mug

A hot mug of cocoa is one of the most comforting things to have after a hard day of hiking through rough terrain and changing weather. Hot cocoa, which is made with rich cocoa powder, milk, and a touch of sweetness, brings comfort, warmth, and a sense of home in the middle of the Himalayas' remote wildness. Trekkers can take a break and rest by the fireplace or in the warmth of a tea house while sipping a cup of velvety hot cocoa. This gives them time to recharge before continuing their journey. During the Everest Base Camp Trek , hot cocoa is sure to make you feel warm and happy, whether you drink it as a treat at the end of a long day or as a way to relax before bed.

Through these options for staying hydrated and refreshed, trekkers can stay energized, hydrated, and at ease as they start the adventure of a lifetime through the stunning landscapes of the Everest area .

As we finish our food tour of the Everest Base Camp Trek , it's clear that the experience is more than just beautiful scenery and tough physical challenges. During our trip, we've explored the wide range of Nepali food, tried hearty Sherpa food, and enjoyed the warmth of traditional Himalayan drinks. From the warm warmth of Dal Bhat to the strange tastes of yak cheese, each dish has made our trip more interesting.

Enjoying the different kinds of food along the trail not only fills the body but also makes the soul happy. It shows how strong and creative the people in these areas are that they were able to make these delicious foods in some of the harshest settings in the world. We have a better understanding of the culture and habits of those who live in the shadow of Everest because we have tasted these foods.

Either you are doing the Everest Helicopter Tour , the EBC Short Trek or the Long Everest Trek , don’t miss the opportunities to taste the different authentic Nepalese foods of the Everest Region.

Everest Base Camp
Mount Everest
Trekking in Nepal

Manju Mahato

Manju Mahato is a content and blog writer with over 5 years of experience in the field. She has a passion for creating compelling and engaging content that resonates with readers. Her expertise lies in crafting informative and well-researched articles on a wide range of topics, including health, travel, and technology. She is a skilled communicator and enjoys connecting with her readers through her writing. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for storytelling, she strives to deliver high-quality and informative content that makes a difference.

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Food on Everest Base Camp Trek

The Everest Base Camp trek is one of the exciting and thrilling adventure treks in the world. To do this trek, you ‘ll need to be well-equipped with the correct gears & must fueled with correct food nutrition. Excessive or insufficient diet intake might also affect to your EBC trekking. As you consume too much food, your body will feel heavy & make it difficult to your trek. Furthermore, if you consume too little, your body will not receive the necessary quantity of energy. As a result, you’ll need to research and prepare how to stay on track with your nutrition while trekking. What kind of food on Everest base camp trek is available, and what is healthy? Everything must be planned from the beginning.

Every teahouse lodges provides comprehensive menu. However, you’ll find a comparable food choice throughout the trek. Some teahouses, still, provide a startling variety of choices. As a result, you may find yourself trying something new every day. The remoteness of Everest & Sherpa food, culture, lifestyle and traditions will make your schedule of eating breakfast, lunch, and dinner like at home.

Everest Base Camp Trek Food Time

Normally, you can start your days with breakfast around at 7 to 8 am . Typically, delicious & invigorating breakfast helps you lot during the EBC trek. Almost, every teahouse provides you hot breakfast consisting of Eggs (scramble, boiled, omelet, sun side, fried), Potatoes (Mash, fried, cake, boiled, chips), Coffee or tea, Toasts etc.

Lunch will be in afternoon, approximately 12:00 to 13:00 PM . During the day you need more carbohydrate meal. Therefore, during the EBC Trek, if you are very hungry then I would like to suggest you a Nepali food – Dal Vat which consist of dal (lentil soup), vegetable curry (carrot/potatoes/green veggies), pickle (spicy). While eating Dhal Vat – You will get more to add dal or soup. Besides, you will get all nutrition that you need for the EBC trek.

Actually, you will arrive at the lodge before sunsets. Time for the dinner in every teahouse is about 18:00 to 20:00 PM . You need to order for the dinner 1 hour before dining hall. You must have your dinner at the same tea house lodge where you stay for the night. The foods are similar to lunch and you’ll have many options to try from the menu; from Nepali Dish to Western cuisine.

What is the food on Everest base camp trek?

Normally, EBC trek is 12 to 14 days, depending on the route you choose to go & acclimatization days you are required. Everyday in average, you’ll walk 5 to 7 hours a day. In this challenging trek, your body should remain delightful & healthy. So, food & drink is very important. As a result, I have written below about ultimate everest base camp trek food guide that may help you to know about food when trekking into Himalayas.

Breakfast at Everest Base Camp Trek

Pancakes: Apple Pancake, Banana Pancake, Chocolate Pancake, Lemon Pancake, Plain Pancake with Jam & Honey etc.

Bread: Toasted bread, Toast with jam or Honey – French Toast – Cheese Toast – Toast the bread and add the egg and cheese, Tibetan bread, etc.

Eggs: Boiled Egg (two per person), Vegetable Omelets, Cheese Omelets, Scrambled Egg, Plain Omelets, Fried Egg etc.

Nepali Breakfast: Chapati with Jam / Honey, Chapati with Baked bean, Plain chapati, Chapati with fried Egg, Chapati with curry & boiled Egg etc.

Porridge: Apple Porridge, Oat Porridge, Plain Porridge with Honey, Porridge with Milk, Tsampa Porridge etc.

Other Breakfast: Muesli with Hot Milk, Cornflakes with Hot milk, Rara noodles etc.

Lunch & Dinner at Everest Base Camp Trek

Rice-based dishes: Dal Bhat veg, Veg Fried Rice, Egg fried Rice, Mixed Fried Rice, Veg curry with Rice, Rice pudding, Fried Rice with cheese, Tuna fried Rice etc.

Dumplings: Veg Momo, Potatoes Momo, Cheese Momo etc. (You’ll find both fried & steam Momo in the menus)

Noodles: Mixed Fried Noodles, Veg Fried Noodles, Egg Fried Noodles with Cheese, Fried Noodle with cheese.

Pasta: Pasta with cheese, Veg Fried Pasta, Pasta with tomato sauce & cheese.

Macaroni: Veg Macaroni, Plain Macaroni, Macaroni w/ cheese, Macaroni with Egg, Mix Macaroni.

Spaghetti: Spaghetti with cheese and tomato, Spaghetti with tuna – cheese & tomato sauce, Spaghetti veg tomato sauce, Spaghetti with tomato sauce

Pizza: Mushroom Pizza, Mixed Pizza, Vegetable Pizza, Tuna Cheese Pizza, Tomato Cheese Pizza

Sandwiches: Grilled – tuna and tomato sandwich, cheese tomato sandwich, tomato egg sandwich.

Potatoes: Fried potato with cheese, Mashed Potato, French Fries, Boiled Potato, Fried Potato with vegetables etc.

Others: Fried Chips with Egg, Sherpa Stew, Burgers, Spring Rolls, Yak Steak with Chips.

Dessert at Everest Base Camp Trek

Apple Pie with custard – Fried Mars Bars – German Bakeries – chocolate pudding – Rice Pudding with Sugar – Apple Filter – Fried Snicker Roll

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Keep in Mind that I am Government Certified Registered Tour & Trekking Guide in Nepal. We are socially responsible local guide in Nepal. However, certain percentage of profit from your trip in Nepal goes to school improvements, destitute people, old age people, education sector , orphan organization, women empowerment etc.

Kind of Soup in EBC Trek

Garlic Soup – Vegetable noodle soup – Chicken Soup – Tomato Soup – Dal Soup – Vegetable Soup – Mushroom Soup – Tomato veg soup – Veg Egg Soup.

What about the meat in Everest Base Camp Trek?

Actually, meat is available on the menus of most tea house lodges. Although, in my opinion, I advise you to avoid meat throughout Everest base camp trek, especially at higher elevation. The freshness of meat cannot be assured that it is hygienic.

The reason is that, the meat is carried from lower elevation or flown from Kathmandu. It is carried by a porters or yak without refrigerated. It takes at least 2 to 3 days or even more to reach the lodges. All meat is flown into Lukla and then carried up the mountain, increasing the risk of rotten meat. Therefore, avoid eating meat in EBC trek above Lukla.

Although there are animals that reside on the mountain such as yak. But, the inhabitant faith to forbids the butchering of animals in the region. If you are keen to eat meat in Mountains, then I suggest you to try in Lukla before or after the end of the trek. Yak steak is very popular in Lukla lodges.

Will I get 3 meals a day?

Definitely! you will get 3 meals a day. This is very popular treks in Nepal. Almost all tea house lodges offer you extensive variety of foods items from Nepali dishes to Western. They will provide you comprehensive menu, from where you have to pick and items are usually made quickly.

Just depends on crowd in the lodges. At least need to be patience for 1 hours after you orders. Simply, ask for some hot or cold drinks what you like, sit & sip by enjoying the surrounding. You will be served the food.

The Everest Base Camp trip is without a doubt Nepal’s best-known trek. The lodges have done everything possible to ensure that hikers have plenty of options available about foods and beverages.

Most of the teahouses are managed by Locals, though the food is cooked by local people trained to the high standard that meet the requirements of guest. That for sure, you will be able to enjoy different taste bud during the trek to Everest. There is no doubt, the food will be provided three times a day during the trek.

Food in Lukla

(Recommended Food: Yak Steak)

Suggested Breakfast: Sherpa Strew (Cooked soup including meat, vegetable, beans etc.) with plain toast.

Lukla is the first & foremost place where every imported products & food arrive, for Khumbu region tea houses. Almost every hotels or lodges meals are delicious. Everybody can afford the price for the food. You can get practically everything here, the typical meal Dal bhat (Trekking version) which comprises of rice, dal soup with fresh vegetable curry that are available locally.

Other dishes include the Roti, Flat bread with curry, fried rice, Momos & other small stuff dumpling that are serve with relish. You can taste the bud everything from pizza to sandwich, Burger to Yak steak etc. If you like to taste the typical local wine, then can try at Lukla.

Food in Phakding

(Recommended Food: Dal Bhat)

Suggested Breakfast: Red bean with chapati (flat bread).

The food on Everest Base Camp trek route – Phakding lodges are identical to those in Lukla & is comparably configured price. This is actually an official start of teahouse trek to Everest base Camp. It’s also where you’ll most likely to have your first dish of Dhal Bhat, Trekking version,” Dhal Bhat Power -24 hours.

This is actually a staple diet for if you are feeling very hungry. Because, when you order the dal vat, the quantity will be filling, you can add more if needed in one shot of price. Just you need to tell them that you need more Dal Vat.

Dal Vat is delectable & delicious food, prepared by everyone differently, so the taste different according the place. But I like the dal Vat of Phakding very much.

Food in Namche Bazaar

(Recommended Food: Mushroom Pizza)

Suggested Breakfast: Tsampa Porridge or Tzen (Sherpa cuisines).

Namche is the penultimate stop on the way to Everest Base Camp. There are more than 50 hotels, restaurants that offers different type of food to taste like; Chinese, Japanese, French, Spanish, Italian cuisine, typical Nepali, Dumpling, Sherpa food etc.

The price in Namche Bazaar is fair according to the place & height. But, slightly more than in Lukla food menu price. There are other bakeries, and cafes, where visitors can relax by sipping tea or coffee. Keep in mind that as you climb up & up, the price for the food in teahouse lodges are increased.

The must try Sherpa cuisines while you are in Namche Bazaar are Sherpa stew, Rigi Kur (Potato pancake), Tsampa Porridge & Tzen (millet bread), Sherpa Bread etc.

Sherpa cuisines such as authentic Sherpa delicacies such as Rigi Kur (potato pancake), Tzen (millet bread), Sherpa Stew and Tsampa Porridge are must try while you are in Namche.

Food in Tengboche

(Recommended Food: Ham Burger with French fries)

Suggested Breakfast: Chapati with Peanut Butter or Toast with veg omelet & cheese

Tengboche has a few lodges as well as a few small cafes that cater to trekkers. However, food is a little more expensive and there is less variety than in the lower region. Yaks transport all of the food ingredients to the lodges along the route.

As a result, non-perishable foods items such as rice, oats, cereals, grains, potato chips, Syrup & honey, dried goods etc. are in great demand in the region. Dal, a cooked lentil soup, is also available. These recipes are served with steaming white rice, which is also called Dal Vat.

There is also bakery shop behind the lodges. Do not forget to try hot chocolate in Tashi Delek lodge in Tengboche. Pizza is also another famous food in Tengboche.

Food in Dingboche

(Recommended Food: Egg Veg. Fried Rice)

Suggested Breakfast: Sherpa Bread (Rice flour bread fried on oil) with honey & Jam.

Dingboche is the last spot if you need some snacks to buy, even though the price for food is expensive in Dingboche. It will be almost double price to buy the things then in lower region. Therefore, you need to have sufficient money to buy plenty of food & water during Everest Base Camp trek.

The food on everest base camp trek route is basic with few western dishes and many varieties of Dahl Bhat, which you will find welcoming with its filling and warm spicy flavors.

There is one café called CAFÉ 4410, you can go to relish there for hot chocolate drinks & have some delicious cakes. This is only one Café which offers varies types of drinks with western flavor. I have never imagined such a facilitate café in that high altitude.

Food in Lobuche

(Recommended Food: Macaroni with Cheese)

Suggested Breakfast: Oat Porridge with Honey

Food provided is cooked by the local people trained to the high standard that meet the requirement of the guest. Comprehensive menus will be given to make a choice of food.

Everything you expect to find in lower elevation from Dal Bhat, Fried Rice to potato chips, spaghetti, spring rolls, momos, pizzas etc. are available. You also get variety of drinks like coke, fanta, sprite, beer etc.

Hence, the price of food & drinks around Lobuche are consistent. For example; The price of a single dish is estimated to be between 5 to 15 Dollar (USD). The price of beverages around 3-4 USD. A cup of hot water (1-2 USD).

However, food in Lobuche is better than it is in some other places. Do not expect high in the contest of food in Himalayas. Porters & helicopter are bringing foods that suit for the lodges. Keep in mind, food is simple & filling, portion is quite big that help to boost your energy.

Food in Gorakshep

(Recommended Food: Spaghetti with Cheese)

Suggested Breakfast: Toast with Jam / Honey & Cheese omelet or boiled egg

The food in Gorakshep is delicious. Due to high altitude, trekkers do not enjoy with good taste. I do not recommend trekkers to eat meat in whole EBC trek. The reason is that, animals are not allowed to kill in Everest Region, hence, porters or yak carries the meat from Lukla or Kathmandu without refrigerated since long days.

The price for the food is very expensive then other places in EBC trek. Due to the lack of sufficient water, you even cannot get refill water there. You need to purchase mineral water that cost 3 to 5 USD per liter. Therefore, you need to carry sufficient cash money to survive in the everest trekking in Nepal.

Every basic kind of food you get in Gorakshep, from Nepali dish to pizza rolls, spaghetti, cheese, sandwich, Chowmin, egg, toast etc. Reminder; do not forget to carry your favorite snacks too like chocolate bar, sinkers, dry food etc. Because, you will not have fixed time to have your lunch, anytime you need it for your energy.

Everest Base Camp Trek Food Cost

Day to Day Breakdown – (Total Cost: 30750 NPR)

01 Day: Kathmandu to Phakding – Food & Drinks Per Meal: 500 NPR to 1200 NPR X 3 = 3600 NPR 02 Day: Phakding to Namche Bazaar – Food & Drinks Per Meal: 500 NPR to 1200 NPR X 3 = 3600 NPR 03 Day: Namche Bazaar Acclimatization – Food & Drinks Per Meal: 600 NPR to 1200 NPR X 3 = 3600 NPR 04 Day: Namche Bazaar to Tengboche – Food & Drinks Per Meal: 800 NPR to 1200 NPR X 3 = 3600 NPR 05 Day: Tengboche to Dingboche – Food & Drinks Per Meal: 800 NPR to 1200 NPR X 3 = 3600 NPR 06 Day: Dingboche Acclimatization – Food & Drinks Per Meal: 800 NPR to 1200 NPR X 3 = 3600 NPR 07 Day: Dingboche to Lobuche – Food & Drinks Per Meal: 1200 NPR to 1500 NPR X 3 = 4500 NPR 08 Day: Lobuche to Gorakshep (EBC) – Food & Drinks Per Meal: 1200 NPR to 1500 NPR X 3 = 4500 NPR 09 Day: Gorakshep (EBC) to Pheriche – Food & Drinks Per Meal: 800 NPR to 1200 NPR X 3 = 3600 NPR 10 Day: Pheriche to Kyangjuma – Food & Drinks Per Meal: 600 NPR to 1200 NPR X 3 = 3600 NPR 11 Day: Kyangjuma to Chumoa – Food & Drinks Per Meal: 600 NPR to 1200 NPR X 3 = 3600 NPR 12 Day: Chumoa to Lukla – Food & Drinks Per Meal: 500 NPR to 1200 NPR X 3 = 3600 NPR

What about drinks during Everest Base Camp Trek?

All types of drinks are available in EBC trek. From mineral water to other alcoholic drinks. But here we are going to talk about all types of drinks that are available during the trekking.

Drinking water on EBC Trek

Suggest to drink a Treated Water, Boiled Water, Filter Water or Mineral water that are available in the lodges. Bring some water purification pills with you if you don’t want to drink boiled water or filter water or mineral water available in the lodges. It is not advisable to drink tap water without first boiling it.

However, bottle water can also be purchased at most of houses & small store along the way. Keep in mind that plastic bottle causes an environment problem. Some times you see a huge pile of plastic bottle behind the lodges. Therefore, highly recommend to carry your own bottle to refill water with you all the time. “Go Green, Avoid Plastic”.

At altitude, staying hydrated is critical, therefore we recommend consuming 4 to 5 liters of water each day. Drinking water, tea, and soups are examples of this. Forget about booze or any other gimmicks; all you need is water. Carry at least 1.5 to 2 liters of water with you all the time.

The higher you go in altitude; the more costly water becomes. The reason is that, all of the water you get up there was carried on the backs of human porters, the price includes the ridiculous amount of human effort that went into it.

The following is a cost estimate for 1 liter of treated filter water: 100 NPR to 150: Lukla, Phakding, and Namche 250 NPR to 300: Dingboche 300 NPR to 400: Lobuche & Gorakshep

During the trekking, Hot water is always expensive than regular mineral water, but it is a lifeline in the high altitude. Actually, most of the hot drinks are offered with different price ranges.

A Cup | Small Pot | Medium Pot (1 liter) | Large Pot (Thermos) On the EBC trek, the cost of hot water is estimated to be:

Lukla (2860 Masl): Cup (Rs. 70) – Pot (Rs. 300) – Large Thermos (Rs.800) Tengboche (3860 Masl): Cup (Rs. 100) – Pot (Rs. 500) – Large Thermos (Rs.900) Lobuche (4940): Cup (Rs. 120) – Pot (Rs. 800) – Large Thermos (Rs.1200)

Types of Tea During Everest Base Camp Trek

Hot Ginger Lemon Honey: This is best drink to keep your body warm & energetic in high altitude.

Sherpa Tea: If you can tolerate the salty taste. This is another hot drink that usually drink by local people to keep heat in the body. Nepali people like; Sherpa, guide & porters prefer to drink this Sherpa tea often. It is made up of cow milk, yak butter and salt. It helps to increase metabolism in your bodies.

Black tea: They give a hot water with a single Tea Bag.

Lemon tea: They use Squash Lemon that are available in seal bottle & tea bag with Hot water.

Milk tea: Milk Powder blend it in hot water & cooked with Tea bag.

Black Masala tea: Flour of cardamom, cloves & pepper, tea bag, Hot water

Milk Masala tea: Milk Powder blend it in hot water & cooked with Tea bag. Mix with cardamom, cloves & pepper

Ginger tea: They use organic ginger to cook with hot water & tea bag.

Mint tea: This is also good for your health in altitude. Mint plant available in mountains. But, not all places in altitude.

Coffee & Other Alcoholic Drinks

You will see almost every tea house along the route offers coffee & trade in alcoholic drinks. However, I do not suggest you to drink coffee and other alcoholic drinks while climbing up higher altitude. It’s not good when you are dealing with AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) in the altitude. Thus, you can absolutely try them on your way back down after Everest Base Camp.

Milk Coffee: Mixing Milk Powder & Coffee with Hot drinks in Lobuche, Gorakshep. But, most of the lodges even offer other different flavor of Coffee like; cappuccino, americano etc.

Black Coffee: Hot water mix with coffee in higher altitude Lobuche, Gorakshep. Most of tea house have their own coffee machine that offers with special decoration & taste.

Hard Drinks: Rum, Mustang Coffee, Local Raksi, Red Level, Black Level, Red Wine, White Wine, Vodka etc.

Everest Base Camp Trek

The food on everest base camp trek route is basic with few western dishes and many varieties of Dahl Bhat, which you will find welcoming with its filling and warm spicy flavors. However, trekking provide the excellent views of mountains and cultural lifestyle of everest regions. The views along the route & from the peak of Kala Patthar in the Everest area is beyond the imaginations.

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A trekker on the hike to Everest Base Camp admires the mountain views next to prayer flags

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.

dingboche-everest-base-camp-trekking-tour

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.

suspension-bridge-himalayas-trekking-tour

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.

stupa-namche-bazaar-everest-base-camp-trek

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.

khumjung-chukhung-everest-base-camp-trek

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.

kathmandu-thamel-market-ebc-trekking-tour

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 – Everything You Like to Know

Everest Base Camp Trek has been a goal of thousands of novice, independent and anxious trekkers all around the world. Here you can get the genuine and honest facts of this trek before you come to achieve it. So, feel easy to ask if you have any queries regarding this trek.

In this article, you’ll get general ideas of the overview of Everest Base Camp Trek along with itinerary, health requirements, packing list, permits, and frequently asked questions. Indeed, this article is especially for backpackers who want to trek to Everest Base Camp on their own path.

Basically, Mt Everest has two base camps – one is on the Nepal side and another is on Tibet, China side. But Everest Base Camp Trek is a wonderful trip that begins from Lukla to approach Mt. Everest closer to reaching Everest Base Camp (5364 m) and Kala Pathar (5545 m). It literally means the trek lies in Nepal and reaches to South Base Camp of Mt Everest. This iconic journey leads you through a few Sherpa villages in Khumbu, offering the beauty of the Sagarmatha National Park. Meanwhile, you will be delighted with a mesmerizing view of the dignified mountains above 8000 m. Mt Lhotse, Mt Nuptse, Mt Cho Oyu, Mt Makalu, and Mt Ama Dablam are the major peaks that you can observe on this trek. You can also observe the customs and traditions of Local Sherpa people along with their lifestyle.

The trek covers a distance of 130 Kilometers beginning and ending in Lukla. To find out more, you can visit our article Everest Base Camp Trek Distance .

To reach Kalapathar is this trek’s ultimate destination, which is elevated 5545 m above sea level. Therefore, Everest Base Camp Trek is also known as Everest Kalapathar Trek .

The trip begins from Kathmandu, however, the trek starts from Lukla. Alternatively, one can choose Jiri to EBC route to avoid the Lukla flight. But it requires 4-5 more days than Lukla to EBC route.

If you don’t wish to do such a long exhausting journey but want to see Mt Everest from closer, then Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour can be another best alternative way to see Mt Everest for you.

Check out 5 different trekking itineraries for Everest Base Camp

Everest Base Camp Trek Facts

Altitude: Everest Base Camp sits at an altitude of 5,364 meters (17,598 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest trekking destinations in the world.
Distance: The trek to Everest Base Camp typically covers a distance of around 130 kilometers (80 miles) round trip, starting and ending in Lukla.
Duration: The trek usually takes about 12-14 days to complete, allowing for proper acclimatization to the high altitude.
Sagarmatha National Park: The trek passes through Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its unique biodiversity and stunning mountain landscapes.
Tenzing Norgay and Edmund Hillary: In 1953, Tenzing Norgay and Sir Edmund Hillary became the first climbers to reach the summit of Mount Everest via the Southeast Ridge route, which starts from Everest Base Camp.
Sherpa Culture: The trekking route is dotted with Sherpa villages, where you can experience the rich culture and traditions of the Sherpa people, renowned for their mountaineering prowess and hospitality.
Kala Patthar: Kala Patthar, a prominent viewpoint near Gorak Shep, offers breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and surrounding peaks. It is a popular spot for watching the sunrise over Everest.
Weather: Weather conditions in the Everest region can be highly variable and unpredictable, with temperatures ranging from mild to extremely cold, especially at higher elevations. It’s essential to be prepared for a wide range of weather conditions.
Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS): Due to the high altitude, trekkers are at risk of experiencing symptoms of AMS, such as headache, nausea, and fatigue. Proper acclimatization, hydration, and gradual ascent are crucial for minimizing the risk of AMS.
Environmental Concerns: The increasing number of trekkers and climbers in the Everest region has raised concerns about environmental degradation and waste management. Responsible trekking practices, including proper waste disposal and eco-friendly trekking practices, are essential for preserving the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.
Trek Difficulty: Moderate
Accommodation: Teahouse
Guide and Porter: Both are not mandatory. You can go independently or can hire a guide and porter to support you and make your trip easy and joyful
Required permits: Local government tax and Sagarmatha National Park Permit
Best Time to Trek to EBC : March to May(Spring) and September to November(Autumn)
Start and End Point: Kathmandu to Kathmandu

Highlights of EBC Trek

Scenic Flight to Lukla: Your adventure begins with a thrilling flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, a small mountain town with a challenging airstrip carved into the mountainside.
Namche Bazaar: The bustling Sherpa capital of the Khumbu region, Namche Bazaar offers a vibrant atmosphere with colorful markets, bakeries, and stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
Sagarmatha National Park: Trekking through the UNESCO-listed Sagarmatha National Park, you’ll encounter diverse flora and fauna, including rhododendron forests, Himalayan wildlife like musk deer and snow leopards, and rare bird species.
Tengboche Monastery: Situated amidst awe-inspiring mountain scenery, Tengboche Monastery is one of the most significant Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in the Everest region, offering spiritual solace and breathtaking views of Everest and its neighboring peaks.
Dingboche: Nestled in a picturesque valley, Dingboche provides stunning views of Ama Dablam and neighboring peaks. It’s a great place for acclimatization and offers opportunities for short hikes to nearby viewpoints.
Lobuche: As you ascend higher into the Khumbu Valley, you’ll reach Lobuche, a remote outpost with incredible panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and the Khumbu Glacier.
Gorak Shep: The last settlement before Everest Base Camp, Gorak Shep sits at the base of Kala Patthar and offers stunning sunset views over Everest and the Khumbu Icefall.
Everest Base Camp: The ultimate destination of your trek, Everest Base Camp offers a surreal experience as you stand beneath the towering presence of Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak.
Kala Patthar: A viewpoint renowned for its breathtaking sunrise views of Everest, Kala Patthar offers an unparalleled panorama of the Himalayas, including Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Changtse.
Sherpa Culture and Hospitality: Throughout your trek, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in Sherpa culture, interacting with local villagers, visiting ancient monasteries, and experiencing the legendary hospitality of the Sherpa people.

Everest Base Camp Trek Route Map

Below, you can view an overall map of Everest Base Camp Trek.

There are several maps you can get on premium online. Instead, you can buy it after you arrive in Kathmandu.

Click here to see the pictorial map

Detailed itinerary of EBC Trek

Day 01 arrival in kathmandu (1350m/4429feet).

If you have booked your trip with us or any tour operator either local or international, there will be one of their members to pick you up as per your and the tour operator’s understanding. If not, then you can find a Taxi there. But you have to do an agreement on the price before getting into the Taxi. Meter is rarely used by them.

We can suggest you book a hotel around Thamel as there are many hotels that range from Budget to Standard level. If you arrive in Kathmandu earlier, then you can even visit around Thamel .

Elevation Gain: 1310 m

Day 02 Fly to Lukla (2880m/9448feet), then trek to Phakding (2610m/8563feet)

Flying in a short scary domestic flight to Lukla and following the bank of Dhudhkoshi River crossing a few quizzical suspension bridges, you arrive at a small Sherpa Village called Phakding by 2-3 hours walk. Here it will be your first mountain overnight.

Either your tour operator will arrange the flight ticket for you or you should purchase the tickets at the airport. However, the ticket can be unavailable during peak trekking and climbing seasons. So, it would be better to buy tickets earlier either through a travel agency or directly from the airline’s website. Basically, the Lukla flight ticket costs around 280 USD which includes a return ticket as well.

There are chances of cancellation of Lukla’s flight due to bad weather. So, we recommend you make a flexible itinerary as much as it is possible. Having one or two spare days would be better.

Elevation Gain: 2880 m Lukla, and 2610 m Phakding

Day 03 Trek to Namche Bazaar (3440m/11286feet)

2 suspension bridges on the way to Everest Base Camp Trek close at Namche Bazaar

Today, you will be trekking through some local villages like Monjo, Jorsalle, etc till reaching Namche Bazaar – The biggest Sherpa town in the region. You can cut your lunchtime in Monjo as many trekkers do. From here, you will be entering Sagarmatha National Park which is home to many endangered wild animals. It has been also enlisted in UNESCO WORLD Heritage Site.

You will take a steep hike to Namche Bazaar after passing Jorsalle. It will take you 2 hours approx to reach Namche Bazaar. You will have enough time to visit Namche Bazaar and see the small markets.

From Namche Bazaar, the Everest Three High Passes Trekking route separates and moves toward Thame village which follows the path to Renjo La Pass, while the EBC route goes to Tengboche.

Elevation Gain: 3440 m

Day 04 Acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar

Reaching 3440 m altitude above sea level, anyone could suffer from altitude sickness problems. So, Namche is a great stop for acclimatization for Everest Trekkers. It will offer an opportunity to explore the village from near.

Trekkers enjoying mountain view from Everest Hotel

In addition, many love to hike to Everest View Hotel to see a glimpse of Mt Everest and the surrounding mountains. You can chill here by having a cup of tea or coffee ; you also can snap awe-inspiring pictures of Mt Ama Dablam in the foreground while Mt Everest will be in the background if the sky is crystal clear. Besides that, the hotel provides WiFi that enables you to contact your relatives and share how you are feeling.

Day 05 Trek to Tengboche (2860m/12664feet)

Tengboche Monastery situated on the way to Everest Base Camp Trek

Today, you will be heading toward Tengboche, the home of one of the largest monasteries in Khumbu i.e Thyangboche Monastery. It is a mixture of great architecture and color that has a history of over 500 years.

Elevation Gain: 3860 m

Day 06 Trek to Dingboche (4410m/14468feet)

Spectacular view of Mt Ama Dablam 6812 m

On the 6th day, either you will head to Dingboche or Pheriche. The way follows the same path until it reaches Worshyo Village. It then separates – one way goes to Pheriche and another to Dingboche. I always advise choosing Dingboche when you are going toward EBC. If you are coming down, then staying in Pheruche would be good. From Dingboche, Ama Dablam mountain is very closer. A way goes toward Chhukung from Dingboche that traces a path to Island Peak Climbing . However, the next day, we will not take our path to Chhukung because the EBC trek moves toward Lobuche.

In fact, the EBC route from Dingboche or Pheriche, both meet at the same point i.e Dughla, then approach the Lobuche where you will spend your 7th overnight stay at the mountain.

Elevation Gain: 4410 m

Day 07 Trek to Lobuche (4940m/16207feet)

As I already mentioned that your path from Pheriche or Dingboche meets at Dughla village, and head toward Lobuche having extraordinary scenery of mountains. Within 5-6 hours, you will be at Lobuche village.

Elevation Gain: 4940 m

Day 08 Trek to Everest Base Camp (5364m/17598feet)

From Lobuche, you walk through a rough rocky terrain path passing Gorakshep. You will spend 40 minutes approx in EBC enjoying and collecting the view of Nuptse, Lhotse, Pumori, etc mountains. Thereafter you come back to Gorakshep for an overnight stay.

Elevation Gain: 5364 m

Day 09 Kalapathar Hike (5545m/18192feet) and trek back to Pheruche

Approximately 2 hours hike to Kalapathar will wonder you today when you reach there. Kalapathar is the optimal viewpoint of Mt Everest and its neighboring mountains. After spending 30 minutes, you then will come down to Gorakshep and may have lunch before moving down to Pheriche.

Elevation Gain: 5545 m

Day 10 Trek back to Namche Bazaar

When you will be coming down to Namche via Tengboche, keep your camera ready to capture beautiful photos of rhododendron forests.

Day 11 Trek back to Lukla

You will walk approximately 6 hours today to come back to Lukla. Then you may celebrate the night with your team as you succeed in the EBC trek.

Day 12 Fly back to Kathmandu

Take a short flight from Lukla to Kathmandu in the morning and the rest of the day will be on your hand. You can spend how you want to. You may visit around Thamel or may go for 1-day heritage sightseeing in Kathmandu valley.

Everest Base Camp Transport

Generally, you will take either taxi or a private vehicle to go to Tribhuvan International Airport as it is the only airport that conducts a Lukla flight. However, the roads of Kathmandu are very congested, so as you can say it is badly regulated and has the poor condition of transportation. In case you choose to trek Everest Base Camp via Jiri Route, then you need a standard vehicle and driver for all your transfers. In the monsoon season, the hilly roads of Nepal are prone to landslides and accidents.

Food on Everest Base Camp Trek

Unlike the luxury hotel in a city like Kathmandu, you will not get a wide variety of meal menus during the Everest Base Camp Trek.

You get to have a few options of food while Dal Bhat Tarakari will be the favorite of many people as it is also a common and national meal in Nepal. Dal Bhat is provided by a teahouse that also serves as accommodation for trekkers. Basically, they provide a twin-shared room with separate beds. Likewise, some lodge base teahouses do also provide hot showers, and can also serve laundry service charging a small fee.

During the Everest Base Camp trek, you’ll find a variety of foods available at the tea houses and lodges along the trail. Here are some common foods you can expect to encounter:

Dal Bhat: A traditional Nepali meal consisting of rice (bhat), lentil soup (dal), vegetables, pickles, and sometimes meat or fish. It’s a staple food for trekkers due to its high carbohydrate and protein content.
Momos: These are Tibetan-style dumplings filled with meat or vegetables and served with a spicy dipping sauce. They’re a popular snack or appetizer along the trekking route.
Sherpa Stew: A hearty stew made with potatoes, vegetables, and sometimes meat, simmered in a flavorful broth. It’s a warming and nourishing dish, perfect for replenishing energy after a long day of trekking.
Noodles: Whether in soup or stir-fried, noodles are a quick and comforting option available at most tea houses along the trail. You can choose from a variety of toppings, including vegetables, eggs, and meat.
Fried Rice: Another popular dish, fried rice is made with rice, vegetables, eggs, and sometimes meat, stir-fried together with aromatic spices. It’s a filling and satisfying meal for trekkers.
Pizza: Surprisingly, many tea houses along the Everest Base Camp trek offer pizza on their menus. While it may not be traditional Nepali fare, it’s a familiar comfort food for many trekkers.
Pancakes and Chapatis: For breakfast or a snack, you’ll often find pancakes (with toppings like honey or jam) and chapatis (flatbreads) served with butter or jam. They provide a quick burst of energy to start your day or refuel along the trail.
Porridge: A warm and nourishing option for breakfast, porridge (made from oats or other grains) is often served with milk, honey, and dried fruits. It’s a comforting choice, especially on chilly mornings.
Tea and Hot Beverages: Tea is a vital part of Nepali culture, and you’ll find a variety of teas available along the trekking route, including masala chai, ginger tea, and herbal teas. Hot chocolate, coffee, and other hot beverages are also available to warm you up after a long day of trekking.
Snacks: Along with meals, you’ll find a variety of snacks available at tea houses, including energy bars, chocolate, nuts, and biscuits. These are convenient for munching on during breaks or to carry as snacks for the trail.

Accommodation in Everest Base Camp Trek

Accommodation along the Everest Base Camp trek primarily consists of tea houses, also known as guesthouses or lodges. These are basic but comfortable accommodations located in villages and settlements along the trekking route. Here’s what you can expect from tea house accommodation during your Everest Base Camp trek:

Basic Rooms: Tea houses offer simple rooms with twin beds or bunk beds, basic bedding (usually blankets), and sometimes a small table or shelf. Rooms may be private or shared, depending on availability and your preference.
Common Areas: Most tea houses have communal areas where trekkers can relax, socialize, and enjoy meals. These areas often feature benches, tables, and sometimes a fireplace or stove to provide warmth.
Shared Bathrooms: Bathroom facilities in tea houses are usually shared and may consist of squat toilets or Western-style toilets. Hot showers are often available for an additional fee, although water availability and temperature may vary.
Dining Hall: Tea houses typically have a dining hall or communal area where meals are served. This is where trekkers gather for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, enjoying hearty meals and swapping stories of their trekking adventures.
Menu Options: Tea houses offer a menu with a variety of food and beverage options, including traditional Nepali dishes (such as dal bhat), Tibetan specialties (like momos), as well as Western comfort foods (such as pasta and pizza). Vegetarian and vegan options are usually available, and some tea houses can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice.
Electricity and Charging: While electricity is available in many tea houses, it may be limited or available only during certain hours. Charging electronic devices such as cameras and phones is usually possible, although some tea houses may charge a small fee for this service.
Altitude Considerations: As you ascend higher into the mountains, accommodation options may become more basic, with fewer amenities and shared facilities. It’s essential to be prepared for colder temperatures and thinner air at higher elevations.
Booking in Advance: During the peak trekking seasons (spring and autumn), it’s advisable to book accommodation in advance, especially in popular trekking villages like Namche Bazaar and Gorak Shep. However, during the off-peak seasons, you may have more flexibility in finding accommodation on the spot.

What type of hotel can we find in Kathmandu city?

There is a wide variety of hotels ranging from 2 star – to 5-star in Kathmandu valley. Even you can get a very normal hotel around Thamel – a tourist center of Kathmandu.

Is it possible to book a tea house room by yourself?

It is a little bit hard to book a teahouse room in advance by an independent trekker. There are a few reasons behind these conditions:

Trekkers might not have enough contact information about the teahouses
If trekkers try booking the room by contacting teahouses, there is no guarantee of room booking. Because it is a remote area where almost all of the teahouses do not have an online booking system. So, they can’t be sure whether it is an original or fake booking.

On the contrary, trekking companies and guides do have more and better relationships with teahouses. Hence, they can arrange teahouses in a better way.

Note: You can’t expect high facilities in the tea house.

EBC Trek difficulty and health requirements

It is considered to be a moderate trek although it accesses Kalapathar which is 5545 m above sea level. Nevertheless, you should not take it so easily as many people have got altitude sickness while trekking in Everest.

To overcome the chances of altitude sickness , you need to do some physical activities at least 10-15 days prior to the trek. It would have been far better if you have already hiked some mountains. It may be applicable for those people who have been living just close to the height of sea level.

Basically, you need to be physically and mentally fit to trekking to Everest Base Camp. It does not require any mountaineering skills as it only passes through terrain land and hikes to the steep hill.

Kathmandu to Lukla Flight Cancellation

Since the classic Everest Trail begins from Lukla, we need to take a short flight to Lukla from Kathmandu. It only takes 40 minutes approx to arrive at Lukla from Kathmandu. Nevertheless, no one can be 100% sure about the weather in the Himalayas. It might be changed anytime. Consequently, the Lukla flight may be canceled or can not be landed on Lukla.

Therefore, I would like to suggest everyone add 1 or 2 spare days in order to ensure your trekking on Everest. Alternatively, there is the possibility of helicopter service in a group joining spending some money. The helicopter service charges may range from $300 to $500 for each of the members. In a helicopter, there will be a maximum of 5 members at a time.

Everest Base Camp Trek Permits

The basic required permits for Everest Base Camp Trek are listed below:

Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Fee

Sagarmatha National Park Entry Fee

TIMS (Trekking Information Management System) fee

The first two permits are now the must-require permits. However, about the third permit – TIMS, there are a lot of controversies still going on. But you are allowed to trek just having Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance and Sagarmatha National Park Entry permits.

You can’t get this permit in Kathmandu. It is like a replacement of a TIMS permit which is directly collected by Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality. It can be obtained either in Lukla or in Monjo Village.

Cost: Rs 2000 per person

It is another must-required permit that can be obtained in Kathmandu at Nepal Tourism Board or in Monjo village just prior to entering the National Park.

Cost: Rs 3000 per person

Note: If you are planning to trek from Jiri to Everest, then you need an additional permit i.e Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit. Because you will be passing through Gaurishankar Conservation Area which also costs Rs. 3000 and it also can be obtained in Kathmandu.

What documents are required to issue Everest Base Camp Trek permits?

It is enough to have valid passport details to issue the permits to trek to Everest. But all permits are only for a single entry and once the permits are issued, they can not be refunded.

FAQs of Everest Base Camp Trek

How safe is it to trek to Everest Base Camp?

Safety concern on EBC Trek depends upon a variety of aspects. But In comparison to Everest Climbing, Everest Base Camp Trek is very safe. However, it still poses some risks due to the high altitude as written above.

Apart from the geographical scenarios, the political situation also matters in your safety zone while you are traveling to a particular place.

Before 2008, there used to be a Maoist problem – a form of a political party. But now they are also a part of the Nepali Government. After the comprehensive peace agreement, they are now in parliament. So that this problem no longer exists.

What to pack for trekking in Everest Base Camp?

Normally, you need to bring basic hiking gear, such as walking poles, hiking boots (preferably shoes), lightweight t-shirts, hiking pants, a down jacket, sleeping bags, and so on. For detail about the gears, just click here .

What is the Best time to trek to Everest Base Camp?

Basically, trekking in EBC is open all the time year. However, March to May and September to November are the best time to trek in Everest Base Camp because, in these months, the weather and climate in EBC become as good as a trip requires.

Why hire a local guide for Everest Base Camp Trek?

An interpretive local guide will enhance your valuable time in the mountain. They are very knowledgeable about mountain conditions, weather, avalanches, and other potential hazards. In order to keep you safe on the mountain, they will be passionate about sharing their knowledge of your surroundings.

Is Travel Insurance necessary for Everest Base Camp Trek?

To protect your travel investment, you must have travel insurance for Everest Base Camp Trek ; it should cover helicopter evacuation and medical repatriation. Although it is a moderate trek, it goes up to 5545 m above sea level. In such conditions, some trekkers can suffer from high altitude sickness which can be life-threatening too. Sometimes, trekkers need helicopter rescue. So, if you have travel insurance, it will save you money.

Will there be access to any communication medium in Everest Base Camp?

Definitely, you can take Nepali SIM cards – NCELL or NTC. It often works in most areas. You can enable Internet Data Service on your sim card which makes you unable to communicate with your international friends. In remote areas, the data service of NCELL is better than NTC. Otherwise, Paid WIFI service is available in some of the teahouses. They take nearly $1 USD to use the internet service.

“But keep in mind not to forget to bring a power bank for your mobile phone” Although teahouses do have the facility of electronic device charging, they may charge a few amounts for it.

Is a private trip possible for Everest Base Camp Trek?

Yes, you can book your private trip. But it may cost a little bit higher than the group trek. Almost all of the trekking agencies do organize private trips to Everest Base Camp.

Is it necessary to hire a guide and porter to trek to Everest Base Camp?

No, it is not compulsory to hire a guide and porter for Everest Base Camp Trek. However, a guide and porter can be good company for the whole trip as they will take care of you; help you to get safe, and get better teahouses and food. They can give detailed information and safety precaution about the trail and region. Even some of the guides and porters entertain tourists by singing and dancing.

A Porter will carry your luggage weight of up to 15 – 20 kg. It is not a joke to carry that much weight in such a king of rough trails and altitude.

Note: In Nepal, a guide is a must only for those trails which lie in certain areas called restricted zones by the government of Nepal. Such as Manaslu Circuit Trek , Upper Mustang Trek, etc.

Do I need a porter for the trek to Everest?

I never say that a porter is a must needed for the EBC trek. However, having a porter may let you enjoy the trip twice better than a porter-less trip. A porter will carry your luggage and let you enjoy your journey pleasantly.

Small earnings from you become helpful for them and it improves the income of local communities of the mountain area.

How much does it cost to hire a guide and porter?

The basic salary of a guide ranges from USD $15 – $25 per day. Likewise, it costs $12 – $15 per day to hire a porter. If you buy a complete package trip from a trekking agency, then they will provide a guide and porter accordingly.

Is natural water drinkable on Everest Trail?

We don’t suggest you drink tap water or any water from natural streams. However, you can use a water purifier if you really want to drink that. Instead, mineral water can be found in teahouses on the trail but that is nearly 10 times more expensive to buy than in Kathmandu.

What is the right cost to trek Everest Base Camp?

The cost of an EBC trek varies on the trip type, trekking trails, and the trekker’s own behavior. But the best reasonable cost of Everest Base Camp Trek is about $1400 – $1600. This cost can cover all your food, accommodation, guide and porter, permits, and domestic flights to Lukla. Follow this link for a detailed cost estimation of the Everest Base Camp Trek .

How much does it cost to trek to Everest Base Camp for Indians?

For Indians, it is not the budget of Everest Base Camp Trek that far different than any other nation. However, Indian nationals will get Kathmandu to Lukla flights at a cheaper price than any other nationals. And Sagarmatha National Park Entry fees are only Rs 1500 for an Indian citizen, whereas it costs Rs 3390 for each person.

Can I sleep at Everest Base Camp?

No, you can’t sleep in Everest Base Camp. There is no tea house in Everest Base Camp. On the other hand, trekkers are not allowed to stay at base camp. Only climbers who are summiting Everest can stay at Everest Base Camp.

Do I need to take Oxygen on this trek?

Generally, it is not necessary to take oxygen for this trek. You just need to walk at your own pace and should not get horrid while trekking to Everest Base Camp. However, a well-managed trekking company always brings oxygen as a medical backup to ensure first-aid support for their clients.

What is the temperature at Everest Base Camp?

The weather and temperature of Everest Base Camp are extreme. It ranges from 20 degrees Celsius in summer to -5 degrees Celsius in winter in the daytime throughout the year. But at night, it can reach up to -20 degrees in winter and 4 degrees in summer.

Once you reach Lukla, you will feel a decrease in temperature in the air as you are already at the height of 2800 m above sea level. Again when you go up and up, then the temperature further drops.

Is there any age limit to trek to Everest Base Camp?

Not exactly, the government of Nepal has not defined any age limit for Everest Base Camp Trek. All can plan to trek to Everest Base Camp. However, considering the high altitude and difficulty level of the trek, it is most probably best doable for those who are 14 to 65 years old.

Is there road access to South Everest Base Camp?

There are only trekking trails that take you to the Everest Base Camp. The road access has not reached to Khumbu region yet instead it only reaches the Solu region.

Can Everest Base Camp Trek be an educational trip?

Yes, it can be an educational trip because Everest Base Camp Trek is not only an adventure journey, but it also covers cultural and traditional aspects of the Khumbu region, Nepal. The region is the home of Sherpa communities. Throughout this journey, travelers can explore a few Sherpa inhabitants and the museum of Khumbu Region – Sagarmatha National Park Museum. Moreover, you can study the lifestyle of mountain people before and now.

How to book Everest Base Camp Trek?

To book Everest Base Camp Trek, you can contact us . We provide budget and luxurious both sort of Everest Base Camp Trek. We assure you that you will definitely love our service.

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Top 10 Sherpa Food to try in The Everest Base Camp Trek

Published on April 12, 2020 • Last updated January 11, 2022

Everest Region

Solukhumbu, the land of Mount Everest, is also the homeland of the triumphant mountaineers, the Sherpas. Ever wondered what Sherpa food culture and cuisine are like? To understand this, let’s dig a little deeper into the history and livelihood of Sherpas first.

Sherpas are the indigenous people who were the first to settle in Solukhumbu after migrating from Kham, a place in Eastern Tibet in the mid 16th century. They brought the food culture from Tibet along with them. And you can clearly see the similarities. Since not much grows in the mountains, Sherpa food is very simple, and the ingredients in most dishes are a few locally grown crops, potatoes, vegetables, and products derived from animal milk. Hence, the specialty of Sherpa food lies in its simplicity.

And the best part is, you can taste most of their dishes during your Everest Base Camp Trek . We have compiled a list of Sherpa Food and where you can eat them in the trails for you.

But first, a little tip for the trails: Although most authentic dishes have meat, we don’t suggest eating meat in the trails for two reasons. First, you don’t find yak or sheep meat in the trails, so the lodges replace it with other meat. And second, the meat is generally unrefrigerated and unhygienic. It is either brought from Kathmandu, then transported through porters/mules or carried all the way from the villages below Lukla on the back of mules for several days.

1. Shakpa/ Syakpa

Also known as Sherpa stew, Shakpa is a soupy noodle cuisine eaten by the Sherpas. The homemade noodles in the stew can either be round and thick or cut flat into squares. The ingredients in this soupy stew are dried or fresh meat (yak or sheep) and any locally grown vegetables like spring onion, potato, spinach, and carrots. You can add salt and spices as you want. Different households have their own version of Shakpa.

Where to Eat: All the hotels offer Sherpa Stew. You should try it as an alternative to the soup as it keeps your body warm and helps fight the cold. They have vegetarian options too.

2. Momo and T momo

Dumplings are eaten all around the world in one way or the other. And, momos are steamed dumplings filled with veggies or meat eaten in Nepal. You can also call it the unofficial national food of Nepal.

Even Sherpas cook steamed dumplings in a number of ways. The fillings in regular momos are either meat, potato, or vegetables, with added spices like spring onions, garlic, and salt. Sherpa momos have a slightly different taste than regular momos served in Kathmandu. T momo or Tingmo is another unique dumpling cooked in Sherpa households. They are popularly eaten in Tibet and Bhutan as well. These are the steamed fluffy buns made out of flour dough and rolled in a unique shape. Since T momo has a slightly bland taste, it is generally paired with either vegetable curry, pickles, or hot drinks.

Where to Eat: Don’t worry, you’ll not miss out on momos anywhere in the trails. Hotels offer a variety of meat and vegetarian options for momos However, T momos are rare, and only some hotels up to Namche Bazaar offer it on their menu.

Thukpa is a simple noodle dish with soup similar to Syakpa. While the noodles are flat and hand-pulled in Syakpa, Thukpa has long noodles as the main ingredient. It is then mixed with cooked meat and veggies like spring onions, greens, carrot, and chilies. Thukpa makes a delicious warm dish for the winters.

Where to Eat: You can find thukpa in the lodges’ menu during your trek. It is also served in several restaurants in Kathmandu but makes a perfect lunch or dinner on the trails. If you are a vegetarian, you can order the one without meat.

4. Riki kur

Riki kur is a popular Sherpa dish made from the staple crop- potatoes. The name translates to potato pancake as ‘Riki’ means potato, and ‘kur’ means pancake. It is a flat pancake made by mixing a batter of flour and grated potatoes. Sherpa people mostly serve it with yak cheese or butter.

Where to Eat: Some hotels in the lower section of the trails have Potato pancakes on their menu. Although some traditional touch may be missing, you can still enjoy the cuisine in the Sherpa village. 🙂

Tsampa is a staple cuisine that Sherpas have been having since their days in Tibet five hundred years ago. It is locally roasted barley flour and can be prepared easily. Because of its nutritious and filling nature, Tsampa makes perfect sense in these cold mountainous climates. You can either eat the powdered Tsampa dry or make porridge (Cham-dur) by adding salt, butter, and tea, milk, or hot water to it.

Where to Eat: Most lodges throughout the Everest Base Camp trail have tsampa or tsampa porridge on their menu. It’s a healthy alternative if you want to experiment with your breakfast.

Tibetean bread or ‘Kur’ is widely made in Sherpa households. These flatbreads are made by cooking the thick dough of flour with baking powder in a frying pan. Sherpas eat Kur with chili sauce, or butter, or potato soup.

Where to eat: You will find the Tibetan bread in the breakfast menu of most of the lodges. These bread are puffy with yeast or baking powder, cut in the center, deep-fried, and served with pickle, jam, or butter.

7. Shyaphale

Shyaphale is another local snack of the Sherpas. It is made by wrapping the mixture of minced meat and spices in bread or dough of flour and deep-frying the bread.

Where to Eat: I don’t think that any lodges serve Shyaphale on their menu. So if you wish to try this dish, you gotta go local. The small local eateries (or bhattis) in Lukla and Namche bazaar cook Shyaphale.

Rildhuk is a popular summer Sherpa food as it is light and not designed to preserve the body heat. It is basically a soup made with lumps of mashed potatoes, the taste of which is enhanced by fried onion, garlic, chilies and tomatoes.

Where to Eat: The local eateries in Lower Solukhumbu like Salleri , Phaplu , Chiwong, etc serve this dish. So to get the best taste of food, go local!

9. Su Chya (Butter Tea)

Let’s come to the beverage now. Butter tea or salt tea is a popular drink among the people across the Himalayan belt in Tibet, Nepal, India, and Bhutan. Traditionally, tea leaves were boiled in water, then poured into a wooden butter churn where butter and salt were added before transferring them to copper pots to warm. However, these days any vessel is used for cooking the tea.

Where to Drink: Since Sherpas run most hotels, you will find Su Chya all along the trails. We’d recommend you to try it in small hotels run by Sherpas in Lukla, Phakding, Monjo, Khumjung or Pangboche to make the experience even better.

In Sherpa communities, no social event is complete without alcohol. It is not only consumed for socializing but also considered sacred and offered to gods. A legend goes that Guru Padmasambhava first used Chang. And then, Tibetans started consuming and offering it as the drink of the Gods. Chang is a rice beer prepared by fermenting rice for several days. It has a milky color and sweet taste.

Where to Drink : The best places to drink Chang are the locally run small lodges or the local hooch places in the trails. As innocent as the Chang may look, we suggest you try the drink on your way back as alcohol causes dehydration and possesses a risk of altitude sickness. I’m sure it will make an excellent after-trek celebration drink to bring the singer or dancer in you!

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Everest Base Camp Trek Cost: Food Budget

Nepal Trip Cost , Trekking in Nepal / February 11, 2020 by fulltimeexplorer / 4 Comments

Before leaving for Everest Base Camp, I had so many questions. One of the big ones was how much does the Everest Base Camp trek cost? Specifically, how much money should I bring for food? Although there is an ATM in Namche Bazaar, it’s nearly impossible to get money out once leaving Kathmandu. I didn’t want to carry too much, and I definitely didn’t want to run out too early. My tour agency recommended I bring $600 for food which seemed pretty steep to me. I’d spent only $800 the entire month I spent in Nepal including accommodations and tourism. Note, that I did the Gokyo Lake route which was 18 days. I decided to keep track of all of my expenses so that I could help the next person plan.

Total Spent on Food – $407.85

Since I’m on a tight budget, I really chose the cheapest things on the menu. If you want more freedom, I’d recommend taking my advice with a grain of salt. That being said, I got sick halfway through the trek, and when I wasn’t feeling well, I threw my budget out the window and ordered whatever I wanted. Before getting sick, I was ordering chow mein and fried rice without any protein. I was often hungry after just an hour. I’d recommend adding a little to your budget so that you can have enough fuel to stay healthy and to increase your energy. Paying a little more to have a fried egg thrown into your rice will go a long way.

Breakfast – $129.55

Lunch – $117.50

Dinner – $160.80

Average Spent on Food Per Day – $22.66

I was actually surprised by how much breakfast costs per day in the Everest Region. At a lower altitude, breakfast only costs $1.50 and you get a giant plate of food. Since Everest is a remote area, supplies are flown in on a helicopter or carried up on a person’s back. As you can imagine, this makes the food really expensive. Simple things like two eggs costs close to $2 and toast, coffee, and other items were sold separately.

Breakfast – $7.20

Lunch – $6.53

Dinner – $8.93

Range of Prices on the Everest Base Camp Trek

The prices will increase as you rise in altitude. At first, this will be annoying, but once you see the porters who carry everything on their backs, you’ll understand the price increase. In some areas, it’s impossible to grow anything and very little livestock can survive.

I’d highly recommend bringing a water filtration system so that you don’t have to spend money on bottled water. It also helps to save the environment if you don’t dispose of plastic bottles every day. At altitude, you need to drink about 3L per day to avoid altitude sickness, so it can get very expensive.

Dal Baht – $4 to $7

Chow Mein – $2 to $4

Eggs – $2 to $4

Toast – $1.50 to $3

Hot Water – $0.50 to $1.50

Tea/Hot Chocolate – $0.60 to $3.00

Candy Bars – $2 to $4

Bottled Water (1L) – $1 to $5

I would definitely recommend taking the $600 my trekking company recommended. Besides food, I needed to buy things like throat drops, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, etc. that I had run out of on the way. It also costs money to charge your phone, do laundry, and shower. I never felt like I was running low on money which was good. Again, I kept to a tight budget, but I know people in my group who spent $50 easily each day.

Have you trekked Everest? What did you spend each day?

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Sandakphu Trek: Viewing four of the world's highest peaks, including Everest and Kanchenjunga

The Sandakphu trek, nestled in the eastern Himalayas on the border of India and Nepal, is a dream come true for trekking enthusiasts and nature lovers. Known as the ‘trekkers wonderland’, this trail offers unparalleled views of four of the world's five highest peaks: Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse and Makalu. With its stunning panoramas and diverse flora and fauna, Sandakphu is a must-visit for those seeking an unforgettable adventure.

A journey to the peaks

The trek to Sandakphu, the highest point in West Bengal at 3,636 meters (11,929 feet), spans approximately 32 kilometers (20 miles) from the base village of Manebhanjan. The journey can be undertaken over 6-7 days, providing ample time to acclimatise and soak in the breathtaking vistas. The trail passes through charming villages, lush forests of rhododendron and magnolia, and rolling meadows, creating a picturesque backdrop for trekkers.

Highlights of the trek

Panoramic views : Sandakphu is renowned for its sweeping views of the world's tallest mountains. On a clear day, trekkers can marvel at the ‘Sleeping Buddha’ formation of the Kanchenjunga range, alongside distant peaks of Everest, Lhotse and Makalu.

Flora and fauna : The trek traverses the Singalila National Park , home to a rich diversity of wildlife. Trekkers may encounter red pandas, Himalayan black bears and a variety of bird species. The region's unique flora, including blooming rhododendrons in spring, adds vibrant colors to the landscape.

Cultural encounters : The trail winds through quaint villages like Tumling and Gairibas, where trekkers can experience the warm hospitality of the local Sherpa and Nepali communities. Staying in tea houses and lodges offers a glimpse into their way of life.

Best time to trek

The ideal time for the Sandakphu trek is from April to May and October to November. During these months, the weather is clear, offering unobstructed views of the majestic peaks. The spring season brings blooming flowers, while autumn provides crisp, clear skies and panoramic visibility.

Essential tips for trekkers

Physical preparation : The trek involves steep ascents and descents, so good physical fitness is essential. Regular cardiovascular exercises and endurance training are recommended.

Proper gear : Invest in sturdy trekking boots, warm clothing, a reliable backpack and trekking poles. The weather can be unpredictable, so layering is crucial.

Acclimatisation : To prevent altitude sickness, acclimatise properly by taking regular breaks and staying hydrated. Ascend slowly and listen to your body.

Guides and permits : Hiring a local guide is advisable for navigating the trail and ensuring a safe journey. Permits for the Singalila National Park are mandatory and can be obtained at the entry points.

The Sandakphu trek offers an unparalleled adventure, combining the thrill of high-altitude trekking with the serene beauty of the Himalayas. Viewing the mighty peaks of Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse and Makalu from one vantage point is an experience that few treks can match. Whether you're an avid trekker or a nature enthusiast, the Sandakphu trek promises an unforgettable journey through one of the most scenic landscapes on Earth.

(Written by Manik Kichugari)

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Food On Everest Trek

Table of Contents

Dal Bhat: “The Trekkers fuel’’

Sherpa stew: (Shakpa)

Tibetan Bread or Gurung Bread

Suja: Tea of Himalayas

Himalayan Dumplings ( Momo )

Other Snacks in Everest

Altitude sickness Food

Drinking Water

Foods to Avoid During Trek

Ask a Question

Trek to Everest in Luxury: An Unforgettable Adventure

Permits for Everest Region Trekking

Best Time for Trekking in Everest Region

Heli Taxi Services

Top 7 Treks

Adventure Trips

Luxury Trips

Food On The Everest Base Camp Trek – Food Guide

Food Facilities Along The Everest Base Camp Trek

Is the food served fresh?

Is meat available along the trek?

How many meals get served in a day?

How is the water along the trek?

Popular Food on the Everest Base Camp Trek

Garlic soup

Chinese cuisine

Food at Various Places Along the Everest Base Camp Trek

Cost of Food on the Everest Base Camp Trek

The Final Say

Ashish Niraula

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Food and Drinks in the Everest Base Camp Trek

Food on the Everest Base Camp Trek

Local Cuisine

Western Taste

Breakfast Options on the EBC Trek Route

Lunch and dinner on the Everest Base Camp Route?

How much does food cost on the Everest Base Camp trek?

Freshness and Hygiene: How Does it Work?

How Freshness Is Maintained

Hygienic Practices in Food Preparation

Food For Altitude Sickness

Balanced Diets during the EBC Trek

Sherpa Foods on the Everest Base Camp Trek

Special Dietary Requirements

Everest Base Camp Compare to Kala Patthar

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Everest Base Camp Food - A complete food guide to EBC Trek 2022/2023/2024

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Chapati/Pancakes:

Lunch on Everest Base Camp Trek:

Rice Main course:

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MoMo fried or steamed (Dumplings)

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