Everest Base Camp Trek
More Than a Trek—A Journey to the Heart of the Himalayas and the Spirit of Everest
Trip Overview:
Location
Nepal
Region
Everest
Max-Elevation
5,545 m
Duration
16 days
Accommodation
Hotel /Lodge
Best Seasons
Spring and Autumn
Group
Min. 1 Pax
Difficulty
Moderate
Start Point
Kathmandu
End Point
Kathmandu
Permit
Required
Food
Three Meals/Day
Introduction to Everest Base Camp Trek
Everest Base Camp Trek (EBC Trek) is a journey of a lifetime that takes you to the heart of the Himalayas—the foot of the highest mountain in the world, Mount Everest (8,848 m). The trek, it starts with a thrilling mountain flight to Lukla from Kathmandu or Ramechhap. Due to heavy air traffic at Kathmandu airport during peak trekking seasons, the flights now depart from Ramechhap (Manthali), about 135 km from Kathmandu—a 4 to 5 hour drive. From Lukla, the trek begins on the same route taken by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa. As you trek through valleys, across suspension bridges and into Sagarmatha National Park, you will be surrounded by mountains and immersed in Sherpa culture, the proud people of this high altitude land.
Nepal EBC Trek is approximately 130 km round trip and takes 12 to 14 days, give or take, depending on your time frame and acclimatization needs. Highlights are Namche Bazaar, the market town of Khumbu; Tengboche Monastery, set against a backdrop of giant mountains; Lobuche and Gorakshep’s glacial landscapes. The destination of the trek is Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) where climbers prepare to climb Mount Everest. A pre-dawn hike to Kala Patthar (5,545 m) rewards trekkers with a view of Everest and its surrounding giants—a scenery everyone considers as the emotional high of the trek.
It’s more than just a physical experience, though as much as your body is tested. It’s also a test of endurance and willpower as the altitude, bumpy trails and day by day vertical ascents demands good physical condition and mental toughness. Acclimatization stops at Namche and Dingboche are essential to help your body adapt to the thin air and to prevent altitude sickness. While challenging, the reward is worth it—each new day brings new scenery, from wild rhododendron trees to alpine landscapes, all under the watchful eyes of the world’s highest mountains. With proper preparation, Everest Base Camp Trek is doable and rewarding for both novice and experienced trekkers.
Besides its natural beauty, what makes this Himalayan trek unique is its cultural aspect. You get to experience Sherpa culture, visit centuries old Buddhist monasteries and see a life influenced by religion, hardship, and the mountains. Whether you are drawn to Everest or looking for a deeper connection to nature and culture, Everest Base Camp Trek in Nepal is a journey of a lifetime that combines adventure, discovery, and wonder in every step.
Highlights of the Everest Base Camp Trek
Best Time of the year for the Everest Base Camp Trek
The Everest Base Camp trek can be done all year round, but the best time to do Everest Base Camp trek throughout Autumn (September to November) and Spring (March to May). Let me inform you why:
- Autumn(September to November)
This season gives moderate temperatures and solid climate. The skies stay clear, presenting stunning views of the mountains. It’s a popular choice for trekkers.
- Spring(March to May)
Pleasant weather and beautiful vistas make Spring another excellent time. March to May is good for trekking to Everest Base Camp.
- Monsoon(June to August)Trekking during the monsoon season is a challenging task. Paths can be slippery and muddy, and flights to and from Lukla are often delayed or canceled due to poor visibility.
- Winter(December to February)The winter trek to Everest Base Camp is ideal for those who want a more adventurous. The weather is usually stable and skies stay clear, but sometimes heavy snowfall makes the journey more challenging.
Accommodation in Everest Base Camp Trek
Accommodation facilities in the Everest Base Camp Trek range from basic teahouses to better-equipped lodges. After all day long trekking, trekkers find a place to rest. Generally, teahouses are warm and cozy, with the availability of warm beds, blankets, and a dining area on a communal basis. The different types of accommodation facilities fall within a wide range of prices and comfort levels, so that trekkers may choose based on their preferences and budgets.
Availabilty of food in Everest Base Camp Trek
Another important factor in planning your Everest Base Camp trek is food availability. Most of the teahouses offer a variety of local Nepalese cuisine combined with international dishes like noodles, rice, pasta, and even pizzas. Common ingredients for the meals are lentils, vegetables, and rice; vegetarian options are also easily available. However, it would be advisable to remain flexible about the menu because selection may vary depending upon the season and the local ingredient factor.
Guides and Porters for Everest Base Camp Trek
Everest Base Camp trekking without a guide is against regulations and poses a risk to your safety and experience. Having a professional guide for the Everest Base Camp Trek really enhances your experience. Our team of highly qualified guides is government-licensed, meaning they have been through rigorous training to meet the required standards for safety and competence. Apart from the guides, there are also the competent porters who are important in your trekking. We hire local porters because they are accustomed to the Everest trails and can carry your belongings effectively, while you can just enjoy the fantastic scenery and celebrate your personal achievement. The guides and porters together will make sure that your trekking in the high Himalayas to Everest Base Camp is a non-forgettable yet safe adventure.
Photo Gallery
Itinerary
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, Nepal. Transfer to your hotel and a short travel briefing will be given at the hotel/office, and you will be requested to pay the travel dues. Overnight in Kathmandu.
After breakfast, Kathmandu visits Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Stupa, and Boudhanath Stupa which are all World Heritage Sites. Durbar Square throws light on the life of the royals in ancient times. Pashupatinath Temple is one of the most important pilgrimage places for all Hindus. Swayambhunath is also known as Monkey Temple and Boudhanath Stupa is one of the largest stupas in the world. Late in the afternoon, we introduced you to your mountain/trek guide. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Your guide arrives early in the morning to pick you up and drive you to the domestic airport. You will take a short and scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, where the trek begins. From Lukla, you will trek to Phakding, a small village located at an altitude of 2,610 meters. The trail offers beautiful views of the Dudh Koshi River. Overnight at Phakding.
You will continue trekking along the Dudh Koshi River and cross several suspension bridges. After a challenging climb, you will reach Namche Bazaar, the main trading center of the Khumbu region. Overnight at Namche Bazaar.
This day is reserved for acclimatization to the high altitude. You will take a short hike to higher elevations and then return to Namche Bazaar for rest and exploration. You can visit the local market, museums, and monasteries. Overnight at Namche Bazaar
The trail leads you through beautiful forests and offers stunning views of the Himalayas. You will reach Tengboche, a village famous for its monastery, which provides a panoramic view of Everest, Ama Dablam, and other peaks. Overnight at Tengboche.
The trek continues through rhododendron forests and open valleys. You will cross the Imja Khola River and ascend to Dingboche, a picturesque village with stone-walled fields and great views of the surrounding mountains. Overnight at Dingboche
Another acclimatization day is scheduled in Dingboche to help your body adjust to the increasing altitude. You can hike to Nangkartshang Peak (5083 m) locally known as Nagarjun Hill for breathtaking views of Makalu, Lhotse, and other peaks. Overnight at Dingboche.
The trail ascends gradually as you pass through Dughla (Thokla) and then climb up to Lobuche. The landscape becomes more rugged and barren, providing a sense of being in the high Himalayas. Overnight at Lobuche
Trek to Gorak Shep, the last settlement before Everest Base Camp. After a short rest, hike to Everest Base Camp where climbers gather for their ascent to the summit, and soak in the incredible surroundings. Return to Gorak Shep for overnight stay. Overnight at Gorak Shep.
Early in the morning, you will hike to Kala Patthar, the highest point of the trek, to witness the sunrise over Mount Everest. Afterward, you will descend to Pheriche, passing through Lobuche. Overnight at Pheriche.
The trail descends through forests and crosses several suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River. You will retrace your steps back to Namche Bazaar, enjoying the familiar surroundings. Overnight at Namche Bazaar.
You will continue descending, passing through Phakding, until you reach Lukla. This is your final day of trekking, and you can celebrate the completion of your journey with your fellow trekkers. Overnight at Lukla.
You will take a scenic flight from Lukla to Kathmandu, where you can rest, relax, and reflect on your incredible adventure. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Lukla gets occasional flight delays during the main season. This may cause missing your international flights as well, so we recommend you to prepare accordingly. Lukla suffers from quick weather changes and that may affect inbound and outbound flights. We reserved this day for possible flight delays. If we have a timely flight on DAY 03 or 14, we can use this day for rest in Kathmandu. You can shop around local markets and walk around the city. Overnight at Hotel.
We will drop you at the airport by our private vehicle according to your airport time. It is recommended to reach the airport at least two hours prior to departure.
Not Satisfied with the above itinerary? We also offer flexible, tailor-made trips according to your preferences and specification.
Cost Includes:
Cost Excludes:
Frequently Asked Questions
Customer Reviews:
Aine, Claire and Mary (Ireland)
We’re three Irish backpackers who loved our 12-day trek in Nepal. Binod Thapa was very helpful from the start, answering all our questions quickly. He welcomed us in Kathmandu and introduced us to our knowledgeable guide. The trek was tough but incredible, with great teahouses and support from our guide...
Roberto Rosi (Italy)
After careful thought, I can confidently say my unforgettable solo trip to Everest Base Camp wouldn’t have been possible without Alpine Adventure Club Treks & Expedition. From the warm airport welcome by my guide Bishnu, to Binod’s personal attention throughout, their professionalism and care made every challenge easier. They not...
