Trip Duration 14 Days
Max, Altitude 5545m
Type Trekking
Best Season Sept - May
Meals Included
Accommodation Guest House
Activity Trekking
Difficulty Strenuous
The Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the most adventurous and spectacular treks which interests explorer and trekkers around the world. This amazing trail lets you stand at the base of the highest point on the earth’s surface, Mount Everest (8,848.86m) taking you through the Khumbu region of Nepal.
It starts with a thrilling flight to Lukla, and then moves up through various beautiful Sherpa settlements including, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Dingboche. While en-route incredible mountains like Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Nupse, and of course Everest welcome the trekkers.
Besides the natural beauty, the trek also offers a closer look at the life of Sherpas with opportunities to visit monasteries, to see prayer flags, Automatic praying wheels and friendly welcome amongst the local inhabitants in teahouses. The highlight is getting to the Everest Base Camp at 5,364 m, this is where climbers begin preparing to attempt to climb Mount Everest. Even closer and offering a most breathtaking views of the Everest and surrounding peaks like Kala Patthar (5,545m).
The trekking is comparative moderate, at some points with steep heights, which demands good health fitness and mental stamina to handle many hours of hiking. Usually it costs between 12-14 days with stops for acclimatization, for security and comfortable stay.
Trekking seasons include the early autumn and spring and those weather conditions offer clear troposphere, stable weather.
Everest Base Camp trek is not only a trek but it is a life altering experience, exploration through hostile geography, and exposure to the giants of Himalayas along with rich Nepalese culture.
The trekking to Everest Base Camp (EBC) is moderately difficult, thereby demanding a combination of physical strength and mental fortitude. This trek involves 12-14 days of walk (round about 130 km (80 miles)). Daily treks are between 5-8 hours long, with strenuous ascends,descends, rocky surfaces, and more rough surfaces.
Altitude is the major limiting factor, with trekkers reaching 5364 m at Everest Base Camp and 5545 m at Kala Patthar. Acclimatization plays a significant role in the prevention of altitude sickness with regular rest days in locations like Nāmche Bazaar, and Dingboche. The oxygen levels at these altitudes are lower, breathing is more difficult, and increases in fatigue.
Weather conditions can also add to the difficulty. Hence, temperatures can fluctuate dramatically during night and with fluctuations of weather. Appropriate clothing and equipment is important for cold condition.
Mental toughness is as important as physical fitness. The trek requires tenacity and endurance, particularly on longer and more arduous days. However, if there is enough preparation, reasonable physical fitness and a positive mindset, the Everest Base Camp trek is achievable and very satisfying for those who achieve this incredible feat.
Altitude Sickness
The main health risk that trekkers face during the EBC trek is of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Altitude sickness caused by inhaling thin air at high altitude. When you get to altitudes of 2,500 meters and beyond, you are more vulnerable to AMS and if you rush to ascend quickly without proper acclimatization you probably get AMS.
The symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness include; headaches, nausea and vomiting, dizziness, fatigue, loss of appetite, and difficulty in sleeping. HAPE may cause pulmonary hypertension and heart failure, whereas HACE leads to cerebral oedema and jeopardise the lives of affected individuals.
To avoid such an experience, there are number of precautions for altitude sickness could be taken. It includes, gradual ascents in the altitudes. Acclimatize days, for example, Namche Bazaar and Dingboche are important before proceeding with the trip. Stay hydrated, take nutritious meals; avoid alcohol or smoking if possible.
Symptoms of AMS will requires rest, hydration, and not continue with the climb to higher altitudes. If the symptoms worsen, which is rare, the best treatment is to go down to a lower altitude at once.Most of the trekkers, are able to successfully complete the EBC trek while enjoying the journey to the fullest.
On the Everest Base Camp trek, the food is plain, wholesome, and calculated to give trekkers enough energy for trekking. Food is available at teahouses along the way and varies from very simple to quite fancy; however, as you climb higher the food and service may be simpler and more expensive. Breakfast commonly consists of foods like Tibetan bread, pancakes, porridge, eggs and muesli, and beverage like tea, coffee and hot chocolate. Breakfast is usually Continental or English while the staple Nepali meal Dal Bhat Tarkari. Others are fried rice and noodles, dumpling (momos), potatoes, soups, some simple west dishes such as spaghetti, chow mein and pizzas etc.
Accommodation
There are few tourist standard lodges and majority of accommodations are tea-houses at the Everest Base Camp Trek that provide beds to sleep, food, and rest. These teahouses are situated along the trail in the villages of Lukla, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche and Dingboche offering a chance to the trekkers to relax during their several hours of trekking.
Rooms are very basic with basic amenities items such as a bed, a blanket, and a pillow. The rooms might be much colder depending on how high up in the mountains the place is situated, therefore you will need to have extra blankets or a sleeping bag. In the lower altitude, rooms may be slightly more comfortable as the trail advances towards the higher zones, the accommodations become more basic because the transportation of supplies to the tops is an ordeal.
The teahouses provide shared dining rooms so that you can take hot foods and having conversation with other tourists. The price depends on the level of service, and most accommodations have meals included in the price; however, the price goes up with altitude, and if the accommodation is in the wilderness. Whereas, in higher altitudes such as GorakShep the lodging is limited to small lodges, but staying in such lodges also makes the trekking even more exciting. Although, the place is quite basic but comforts of the accommodation are perfect for one to rest and recharge before going on with the tour.
Each day on the Everest Base Camp trek begins early, around 6:00 AM with trekkers preparing for the day’s hike. After a hot drink like tea or coffee, Breakfast around 7:00 AM which normally can be Tibetan bread, porridge or eggs. The trek usually starts between 7:30 or 8 am and trekkers walk for about 5 to 8 hours daily according to the trail chosen and its difficulty.
The trail again involves some inclines, steep slopes and rochy. Small intervals are made for water intake and snacks, so people can relax a little and have a look at the mountains. Lunch is normally taken between 12:00 P.M – 1:00 P.M enjoying the nepali organic foods and mountain view.
Continued by the afternoon trek, the trail progressively gets steeper as the elevation gains: After lunch the trek continues and the path gets steeper and the weather gets colder as the elevation arises. By 3:00-4:00 PM, trekkers reach next teahouse throughout the daytime, where they can idle around and get ready for night. Getting to the camp, trekkers have some time to explore walking around before the dinner.
Tea house have their dining hall where meal is taken for the day and remaining time of the day is spent in interaction with othesr trekkers. Afterward, trekkers head to their rooms around 7 PM for preparing to have a goodnight sleep and get some rest in order to go for the next day of trekking.
Permits
The EBC Trek requires permits because a variety of structures and guidelines are in place to protect both the physical and social landscape of the areas being visited. Here are the required permits:
1.Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit (GCAP): Required only if approaching the area through the Jiri-Salleri trail, this permit costs foreign individuals NPR 3,000 with the money used to support the conservation of the region’s bio-diversity.
2.Sagarmatha National Park Permit (SAP): Essential to access Sagarmatha National Park in which EBC is situated this cost NPR 3000 for foreigners and NPR 1500 for SAARC nationals to promote conservation.
3.Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit: Reported to have been introduced in a bid to phase out TIMS in the Everest region, this permit costs US$ 20 though the authorities aim to use it to foster local development and tourism management.
These permits aim at supporting conservation, development of infrastructure, welfare of the community and above all guarantee safe trekking adventure.
Travel Insurance
It can be highly advised that travelers take an insurance policy to guard against some of these occurrences when on an EBC trek. When travelling to high altitudes, one is at risk of getting altitude sickness, injury or getting struck by issues such as bad weather and insurance covers for such situations. Some of the areas that must be covered include health- real expenses, evacuation cost, trip cancellations and lost luggage.
Health insurance is paramount since access to a doctor by road is difficult in some of the desolate territories, and even if they are flown to a camp, the cost of flying a helicopter is extremely expensive. Check that the insurance will permit high altitude to 5,500 meters as several usual insurance policies may not allow this.
Also, for coverage for trip delay or cancellation is essential in case of their occurrence while in the itinerary. Remember to bring the copy of the insurance policy and emergency contacts number with you. Though not compulsory, having travel insurance help to ease the mind as well as makes the trekking expedition a safer one.
The trekking price is 1450 to 1850 Per person for an easy, comfortable and all-inclusive Everest base camp trek. This price encompasses all the required permits, round trip domestic flight ticket between Kathmandu-Lukla, full board meals, lodgings, and professional services of experienced guide and porter. Further, insured package also included airport transfers, first aid facilities, pre-trek briefing and briefing.
To this end, our fully inclusive itinerary means that you will not have to bother about the details of this wondrous area of the Everest region — you will be free to laugh and wonder at the spectacular sights! First-time trekkers or trekkers with experience, the EBC trek has the highest standards of comfort, safety, and customer service so that every step towards exhilaration is one less worry. We invite you to trek with us for a safe and unforgettable adventure to the Everest Base Camp!
Best Time
The optimal time to visit EBC is from March to May and from September to November respectively. These months have good climate with an absence of precipitations, and suitable temperature conditions. Spring is relatively warm with a number of wild flowers showing on the trees and the ground making it a good season for a trek. It is also the season, where many climbers try to get the Summit of Mount Everest thus making the trail very cheerful. Another season is autumn that has comparable weather with that of spring, with cool temperatures and clear skies, thus comes more suited for the trek. During this season, it is very dry making trail hiking much easier and the views over the mountains are spectacular. It is advised not to venture into trekking when monsoon is at its peak from June to August because of the wet and slippery trekking grounds and winter from December to February, because of cold weather making the trek challenging.
Drinking Water
Water is an essential on the Everest Base Camp trek, because water is crucial in high altitude regions. That means that, although bottled water can be purchased at the various teahouses along the way, it can be very expensive, especially when one reaches the higher altitude. To avoid expenses and the usage of plastics it is suggested to have a personal reusable bottle and using water purification tablets and a portable water filter. In most teahouses that sell food and beverages they serve boiled water and you can purchase a refill for your water bottle at a small charge.
At some higher altitudes water is scarce and the water storage must be protected from freezing. Do not take water from a stream or river that is not boiled or treated, since it can also contain bacteria. Taking water or purifying methods with you will guarantee that you have a supply to purify water to drink during your trek.
WIFI, Electricity And Communication
Almost all teahouses on the Everest Base Camp trek provide Wi-Fi service though there can be a huge difference in service quality and speed when ascending higher altitudes. There are chances that even in the lower villages like Lukla and Namche Bazaar internet connection is slightly better but overall beyond this place it gets really terrible. Internet, for the most part, is extra and by tariff, meaning that the higher you go, the more you are charged. As we know it is great for communication with the family or get some information it is not quite suitable for intensive browsing or streaming.
Electricity is available in the teahouses on the trail, though it is unpredictable, particularly where there is a distance between each teahouse. Teahouses depend on solar power or small generators mostly for lighting hence electricity supply is usually restricted for a few hours and preferably during the night. You may be charged for recharging your devices, and are advised to carry power banks to ensure your battery is charged throughout the day.
There is phone interaction in a lot of the region through the trek, especially the lower altitude villages such as Namche Bazaar as well as Lukla. Currently there are only two mobile operators that are available in Nepal and these includes Nepal Telecom and Ncell which has 3G signals in most of the places. However, as you go higher in terms of altitude, the signal strength is low or there is little or no signal at all. Teahouses provide satellite phones that clients can use during emergencies although these phones are limited.
Altitude: 1,300 m (4,265 ft)
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our dedicated team will be there to warmly greet you. You will be transferred to your hotel in the heart of Thamel. It is a vibrant district known for its unique blend of restaurants, shops, and local culture.
Our journey starts with a scenic flight to Lukla. There, we will meet up with the rest of the team and begin our trek. We descend towards the Cheplung village. At Cheplung we get to see beautiful views of Mt. Khumbila. Mount Khumbila (5761m) also known as “God of Khumbu” sacred mountain which has never been climbed. Our journey then continues towards Phakding. Overnight in Phakding.
The first part of the trail is easy, we cross the Dudkoshi and walk along the path west of the river. We pass through pine forests and small villages along the way. We continue up north the Benkar valley, we cross the Dudh Koshi again and continue forwards passing through the Chumoa and Monjo villages. Once we reach Jorsalle we verify our permits. Here, you will start seeing more sights of the snow-clad mountains ahead. The last parts of the trek get tougher as we must climb a steep incline to reach the Hillary Bridge. And then, continue hiking up a steep path leading up to Namche Bazaar. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
This day is primarily meant for an acclimatization trek to a higher altitude and then back to Namche to sleep one more night at the current altitude. We will be hiking up to Khumjung village. It is a small but vibrant Sherpa village. There we will be visiting the Hillary School and the Khumjung Gompa where the monastery claims to have a Yeti scalp on display. After our day of exploration, we make our way back to Namche Bazaar. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
With breakfast done, we prepare to trek up to the renowned Tengboche monastery at Tengboche village. It is the largest monastery in the region and one of the most significant ones as well. The monastery is perched in a beautiful spot on a high ridge with Mount Ama Dablam in the background. It is surrounded by pines, azaleas and colorful mountain rhododendrons, and the views are just fantastic; you can get good views of Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku! Overnight in Tengboche.
The trail to Dingboche promises an outstanding views of the mountains and an awesome experience as many claim. The first part of the trail is relatively moderate with river crossings along wooden bridges, climbing up large steps through colorful gateways, and the ever-existing views of the Himalayas. The climb to Dingboche begins once we reach the Imja Valley and the Lobuche River. The trek to Dingboche is as picturesque as the village itself. Overnight at Dingboche.
Today, we will do some hiking around Dinboche. We shall ascent a ridge behind the village, from where we can get views of six of the tallest mountains in the world that includes the Lhotse, Makalu and Cho Oyu, Cholatse, Taboche peak, and other snow-clad mountains rising above the Khumbu Khola Valley, particularly Lobuche West, Lobuche East and Lhotse. The spot also offers spectacular views of the Imja Khola Valley and the attractive Dingboche village. Overnight at Dingboche.
We continue on the trail along the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier and pass by stone memorials for climbers who perished in the mountains. We ascent further as we move towards the Lobuche village which is nestled under the massive Lobuche peak. Overnight at a guesthouse.
The trail to Gorak Shep is rocky and when paired with the elevation, it makes it very much tougher. Nonetheless, on Gorak Shep, you feel like you’re walking on a beach because Gorak Shep is a frozen lakebed covered with sand.
Once Gorak Shep is conquered, now it is the part of the journey you have actually been waiting for- Everest Base Camp! The trail to EBC is also very rocky and is filled with larger rocks as we move closer towards EBC. The rocky terrain, the ascents, and descents on a glacial path, and the elevation make this trail challenging. However, the views from there and the feeling of being there away from the “world” is incredible. It isn’t more about the views but it’s more about the personal sense of achievement you get and to realize that you’ve made it!
You can see the mighty Khumbu Icefall, the upper part of the Khumbu glacier, stunning views of Nuptse, Khumbuste and Pumori, and many other Himalayan giants from EBC. We will head back to spend the night in Gorak Shep. Overnight in Gorak Shep.
The trek starts early in the morning. We walk up a slope admiring great views of Lingtren, Khumbutse, and Changtse mountains to reach Kala Patthar is a famous landmark in the region, it literally means black rock. Some would say, Kala Patthar is the highlight of the whole trip. The top of Kala Patthar, offers the best views of Mount Everest. Hikers walk early in the morning to Kala Patthar to witness the sunrise from Kala Pattar. After spending some time at Kala Pathhar, we head back down to Gorak Shep and from there down to Pheriche. Pheriche is small Sherpa village made popular by the Tshola Tsho Lake. Overnight in Pheriche.
Now, that we’re done with all the climbing, it’s time to come down. And, by down, 2,000 feet down! We descend through rhododendron, juniper and pine forests, at one-point crossing over the Dudh Koshi over a wooden bridge. We make it down to Sansa where awesome vistas of Ama Dablam, Thamserku and Nuptse mountains await. Twisting and turning through the woods we finally make it to Namche Bazaar. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
It’s again all downhill from here. Enjoy the views and reflect upon what you just achieved in these last two weeks. It is a wonderful time to fully look back at the entire journey. After passing some rocky path, it is just a quick descent, crossing several suspensions bridges on the way until we reach our destination. We will also be passing by many monasteries, too. And finally, we make it back to Lukla. This will be the last day in the mountains! Time to rest, reflect and relax! Overnight in Lukla.
We will catch an early morning flight to Kathmandu, where we can do some last-minute souvenir shopping and some celebration! You can also check out some other places in Kathmandu, we will be assisting you with that as well. A farewell dinner is arranged to celebrate your success. Overnight in Kathmandu.
This is it, your last day in Nepal. It’s time to say goodbye, but we hope we’ll meet again! Our representative will escort you to the airport three hours before the scheduled flight.
The weather conditions in the mountain region of Nepal can change rapidly and aviation schedules are not as reliable as you might expect. The flight between Ramechhap/Manthali and Lukla is frequently delayed and maybe cancelled for the day or several days in succession. In the event your flight is cancelled we will either rebook your flight for the following day. It is recommended to apportion one or two extra days in case your flight gets cancelled and you are in short of scheduled time.
Trekking to Everest Base Camp’s difficulty varies based on your fitness, trekking background, and altitude adaptation. The journey includes tough uphill and downhill paths, rough terrain, and changeable weather. Altitude is vital, and altitude sickness is a concern. With good preparation, training, and expert guidance, most moderately fit individuals can accomplish the trek.
The Everest Base Camp trek takes about 12 to 14 days, including arrival and departure days. This gives time for adjusting to the high altitudes and resting, which is very important.
The cost of the Everest Base Camp Trek can vary widely due to factors like your chosen trekking company, service level, accommodation preferences, trekking season, and any added activities. On average, the cost can range from $1,000 to $1,800 USD or more per person. This generally includes permits, guides, porters, lodging, meals, flights, and essentials. It’s best to do research and pick a reliable trekking company that suits your budget and preferences.
Even if you’re new to trekking, as long as you’re reasonably fit and determined, you can make the Everest Base Camp trek. Being well-prepared physically and mentally is key. The altitude, steep trails, and changing weather might challenge newcomers. Picking an experienced trekking company with adept guides, enough acclimatization time, and a fitting itinerary significantly boosts beginners’ trekking success. Always consult medical experts and trek organizers before setting off.
To secure the Sagarmatha National Park Permit, you have a couple of options. You can visit the Nepal Tourism Board Office located at Pradarshani Marg, Kathmandu. Their official website is https://ntb.gov.np/ for further information. Or we can help you to get permit if you book this trip with us.
Entry Fees for Sagarmatha National Park for Foreign visitors: NPR 3,000 per person, and for SAARC nationals: NPR 1,500 per person. For Children under 10: Free entry You will need your passport with you to get this permit.
Yes, When heading on the Everest Base Camp Trek, it’s essential to obtain permits. Permits are a requirement for all national parks in Nepal, including the Sagarmatha National Park.
The Everest Base Camp trek provides a different mix of local and international flavors. It thus caters to various tastes. While the options might be limited compared to urban areas, the quality and variety are surprisingly good. Here’s what you can expect:
It is advisable to pack snacks and energy bars for convenience, especially during long trekking days. Additionally, it is a good idea to carry a water purification system or purchase bottled water from reputable sources to make sure of safe drinking.
Overall, the food on the EBC trek is a delightful part of the overall EBC experience. By exploring the local cuisine and trying new dishes, you will gain a deeper appreciation for Nepalese culture and the unique flavors of the region.
The EBC trek is considered moderately challenging. It demand physical fitness and mental fortitude. The main challenges you’ll face are:
No, you cannot go to Everest Base Camp alone. The Nepalese government has imposed a ban on solo trekking in the country, effective from April 2023. This ban is in place to ensure the safety and well-being of trekkers and to prevent accidents.
To trek to Everest Base Camp, you must be accompanied by a registered trekking company or guide. This will provide you with necessary support, assistance, and expertise throughout your journey.
The success rate for the Everest Base Camp trek is generally high, estimated to be around 95-96%. This is due to several factors:
However, it is very important to note that the trek still poses risks, such as altitude sickness, weather conditions, and personal health issues. Proper preparation, including physical fitness, acclimatization, and following the advice of experienced guides, is important for a successful and safe trek.
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