For many people, doing the Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek is a once-in-a-lifetime dream come true.
Planning is essential, and preparing your body is sensible when the time for your trek comes near. No doubt you have read a lot of information about the trek: what the weather will be like, how far you will walk every day, where you will sleep at night, etc. Here we are providing some ideas of what to see and expect on the trail, which may be a bit out of the usual and light-hearted. It is one of the most popular treks in Nepal.
It needs lots of effort and planning, and I’m sure you don’t want to regret the things you missed at the end of your trek. I recently trekked to the base camp of Mount Everest via Lukla. On the basis of my experience and the things I have done, here are the lists of crazy things to do during your Everest Base Camp Trek. I’m sure you will enjoy the shortlisted things to do during your once-in-a-lifetime trip.
1. Getting There to Lukla
The old saying that ‘it’s not the destination but the journey’ is true when it comes to trekking in the Everest Region. But in addition, ‘getting there’ is also part of the journey: and you will immediately be introduced to the fact that nothing is ever straightforward in Nepal.
Pretty recently, the departure airport for Everest was changed to a small airport in the east of the country, around four hours of road travel from Kathmandu. Given there is very little accommodation at Ramechhap (which may change over the coming years), and flights leave around 6 am in the morning, getting there requires leaving your hotel in Kathmandu around 1 a.m. The adventure starts here.
2. Bird’s Eye View of Hillary Tenzing Airport
Assuming there were no hitches on the road (landslides or other delays) and your flight left Ramechhap on time, you arrive at Lukla in the early morning. After unloading your gear, you set off towards your first overnight stay at Phakding village. Turn left, head north…then look back.
There is a stunning bird’s eye view of the airport. Rated as one of the most dangerous airports in the world, when you view it from this angle, you get a clearer picture of why.
Known for its unique and challenging location, the airport is surrounded by dramatic landscapes that provide a perfect start to your Himalayan journey. The lush greenery of the valleys juxtaposed against the snow-capped peaks makes for an awe-inspiring scene. Keep your camera ready to snap this unforgettable moment as it’s a sight you’ll cherish forever.
3. Buy a blessing scarf (Khada) and tie it on the suspension bridge you pass by
Khata scarfs are long thin pieces of a silk-like material, usually white in colour. They have an auspicious meaning to Buddhists. You might have received one on your arrival at Kathmandu airport. They are available to buy everywhere and are inexpensive.
Tie a scarf to the suspension bridges as you cross them. There are five between Phakding and Namche Bazaar! The Sherpas believe this is a sign of good luck. And they do look very pretty, blowing in the wind.
As you cross these iconic bridges, adorned with fluttering prayer flags, you’ll feel a sense of peace and connection with the sacred mountains. The vibrant colors of the Khadas and flags add to the spiritual ambiance of the trek.
4. Hike to Everest View Hotel | Order your cup of tea and enjoy the view of Everest right in front of your table
You might have seen adverts for helicopter rides, ‘Breakfast on Everest.’ You, too, can enjoy that breakfast or at least a cup of tea or coffee with the same view.
Since you will be staying two nights in Namche Bazaar to acclimatize to the altitude, there is time to walk to the Everest View Hotel (approximately 1 hour away) for the stunning view of Everest from the dining room or outside terrace. Best cup of tea ever!
The panoramic views of surrounding peaks, combined with the luxurious setting, make this stop a highlight of the trek. It’s a place where trekkers gather to rest, soak in the views, and share stories, creating a sense of camaraderie among adventurers.
5. Enjoy the daily morning and evening praying ceremony in Tengboche Monastery
The highest monastery in the region is found at Tengboche. As with other monasteries, pujas (ceremonies) are held every morning and evening when the monks come together in prayer.
Since you will be staying one night in Tengboche village nearby, you may have the opportunity to attend one of these pujas. This is a serene affair and well worth joining if you have the time. Otherwise, you can also light prayer lamps (candles) during worship.
As you listen to the resonating prayers amidst the backdrop of towering peaks, you’ll feel a deep connection to the spiritual essence of the Himalayas. Don’t forget to explore the monastery’s intricate architecture and learn about its significance in Sherpa culture.
6. Buy rolls of prayers flag and place them on top of the pass you pass by
Prayer flags are different from Khata scarfs. Buddhist prayer flags have colors representing different elements: white for air, green for water, red for fire, blue for wind, and yellow for earth. You will see these colourful flags all over the Everest Region and in places like Boudha in Kathmandu. You can buy some rolls of smaller ones and place them when going over passes, such as the Chola Pass or Renjo La Pass. You will also pass memorials to climbers who died on the mountains; prayer flags can be placed there, too, in remembrance.
Watching the vibrant flags flutter against the stark mountain landscape is a deeply spiritual and moving experience. It’s a gesture of gratitude to the mountains and a symbol of your presence in this sacred region. Take a moment to reflect on your journey as you add your flags to the collection.
7. Photographing the Signboard ‘Way to Everest.’
At Gorakshep, you will find the iconic ‘Way to Mt Everest Base Camp’ sign. Great, if very popular, Instagram picture!
Stop for a quick photo at the famous ‘Way to Everest’ signboard. It’s a classic moment to document your journey and serves as a symbolic milestone on your way to the base camp. The signboard, surrounded by breathtaking views, is a favorite spot for trekkers to capture memories. Don’t miss this opportunity to commemorate your progress and share it with friends and family.
8. Take a selfie on top of Kalapatthar | If you don’t have a selfie stick, at least ask others for next to nothing
No doubt you are going to take a lot of selfies! Don’t forget to take one on top of Kalapatthar. This is the highest vantage point on the EBC Trek and is worth a dozen selfies!
The golden light illuminating Everest and its surrounding peaks provides a breathtaking photo opportunity. Make sure to bundle up as the early morning climb can be chilly, but the stunning panorama makes it well worth the effort. Ask a fellow trekker to help you capture the moment if you’re traveling without a selfie stick.
9. Explore Sherpa Museum | Sagarmatha National Park Headquarters
Something you may prefer to do on the way up to base camp, but it can be done on the way back if you have time: east of Namche is the Sagarmatha National Park Museum and, further on, the Sherpa Museum. Great views of Everest and Lhotse from here, and a statue of Babu Chiri Sherpa (June 22, 1965 – April 29, 2001). A trailblazer and record holder on Everest. Google him with the wifi in Namche and take a selfie with his statue.
Learn about the rich Sherpa culture, mountaineering history, and the biodiversity of the Everest region. The museum’s exhibits offer a deep dive into the lives of the Sherpa people and their connection to the mountains. You’ll leave with a greater appreciation for the resilience and traditions of the community that has thrived in this challenging environment for generations.
10. Rotate all prayer wheels along the way | Pass via the right side of the Mani Wall
Throughout the region, you will see mani walls with prayer wheels. Spinning the wheels brings good fortune and sends prayers and wishes to heaven. Always walk on the right-hand side of the prayer wheels, spinning them in a clockwise manner. These acts are believed to bring blessings and are a beautiful way to engage with Buddhist practices along the trek.
The soothing sound of the prayer wheels and the intricate carvings on the Mani walls create a calming atmosphere, reminding you to be present and mindful during your journey.
11. Watch the documentary at 3:00 o’clock in Namche | Café 8848 or Café Danphe Bar
A film is shown every day at 3 pm. Usually, a documentary about Sherpa’s lives, climbers, and mountaineering. ‘Into Thin Air’ is popular. Popcorn is served, so settle in and relax for a couple of hours. Best to book ahead for Café Daphne Bar as it can get busy!
Every day in Namche, at local time 3:00 o’clock, the entire bar hosts a movie show. Mostly, it is a documentary about Sherpa and Mountaineering. The big movie screen can be enjoyed with some drinks and popcorn. Look for a bar showing “Into Thin Air,” and you can enjoy the most sold mountaineer’s blogs visually. Better reserve your arrangement in advance at the “Café Danphe Bar, “where you can enjoy a free pool table and popcorn.
12. Try Hot Belgium Wafers in Namche Bazar
Tired of trekking food? Although the trekking lodges serve great food, at times, we need something a bit different. There is a shop selling hot Belgium wafers and coffee just in front of the Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee office. Ask for directions.
Treat yourself to delicious hot Belgium waffles in Namche Bazaar. It’s a delightful way to recharge and enjoy the comforts of civilization before heading into higher altitudes. Pair it with a hot drink for the perfect treat. The cozy ambiance of Namche’s cafés offers a wonderful respite from the rigors of trekking.
13. Buy the accomplishment certificate at the checkpoint below Namche
At the exit checkpoint of Namche, the guard will most likely ask if you want an accomplishment certificate. Don’t miss the opportunity – you might not be back! For around USD 4, get your name, country, and journey dates written onto a certificate. They will also tick off the places you have visited. Show that skeptical friend at home!
14. Build stone piles whenever you can
You will see dozens of stones piled on each other as you move along the trails. These are kilns or small stupas that send prayers to god to protect the builder on the trail. Another belief is that the stones can be used in the person’s next reincarnation. More usually, like in other countries, these stone kilns mark the route when the weather reduces visibility.
Leave your mark while appreciating the serene surroundings. It’s a simple yet meaningful way to connect with the natural beauty and spirituality of the Himalayas.
15. Check your oxygen level at Namche or Pheriche, or Dingboche
You can get your oxygen level checked at the HRA office in Pheriche. There is a talk every afternoon at 3 pm on altitude-related topics. Interesting to check your levels on the way up and then on the way back. Did you see any changes?
16. Visit the visitor center at Monjo | entrance of Sagarmatha National Park
There is a small office at the entrance of the National Park in Monjo. There is a small visitor room inside the building. An aerial sample of the entire Khumbu Valley is demonstrated in the 3D model. Apart from that, there are several pictures on a wall through which you can build some ideas regarding Khumbu and Sherpa People.
Take your time to understand the region’s ecological and cultural importance. Interactive displays and informative guides make it an enriching experience for trekkers of all ages.
17. Leave Your Mark at EBC
You can write your name on one of the many stones washed down by the Khumbu Icefall and glacier. Your picture will last a lifetime, but we can’t guarantee where your stone will end up. Glaciers move, albeit slowly!
18. Let’s keep Khumbu Clean
Please use the designated garbage dumping sites or take your rubbish back to Kathmandu in order to keep the Khumbu clean. Encourage others to do their part too.
Help maintain the environment for future generations. Participate in community initiatives that promote sustainability and responsible tourism.
19. Take a picture of your puppet with Everest in the background
If you have your puppet, then take it along with you to Everest Base Camp and Kalapatthar. Take a picture of it with Everest in the background. It’s a creative and lighthearted way to remember your journey and add some fun to your adventure.
20. Follow the old bridge route below Namche on your way to Lukla
There are two different bridges between Lukla and Namche. We don’t recommend you follow the old trail on your way up because of the many ups and downs. But on the way down to Lukla again, you can follow the old bridge route for some variety.
It’s a quieter, less-trodden path that offers a unique perspective and an opportunity to connect with the past. The tranquil atmosphere along this route is a welcome change from the busier sections of the trek.
21. Try to get your seat on the left row on your flight to Lukla and right on your flight back to Kathmandu
The Himalayas are on the northern border of Nepal. So when you fly from Kathmandu to Lukla, you need to stay on the left row. Similarly, on your way back to Kathmandu, sit on the right row. During clear weather, you will enjoy the view of the Himalayan ranges.
22. Donate to Pasang Sherpa for road construction
Between Namche and Kyanjuma, you will spot an old man with a donation box and some signboards. Read the information in your own language or English, and please donate at least a dollar that is nothing for you. Despite the government’s failure to construct a good hiking road in the Khumbu region, Pasang Sherpa locally maintained the trail in Khumbu.
23. Try unauthorized Starbucks Coffee at Lukla
There is no Starbucks in Nepal. But in Lukla, just next to The Irish Pub, you will be greeted by a signboard stating ‘Starbucks Coffee Lukla.’ Why not try some and compare them to the real deal?
24. Remember, STD doesn’t stand for Sexually Transmitted Disease | Instead, it’s a phone booth with some telephonic abbreviation
No, we are not implying you will catch a sexually transmitted disease on the trek. Instead, STD in Nepal means Standard Telephone Directory. It is the location where you can make landline phone calls. You will see this sign at bakeries and lodges with landphone line shifts.
25. Gifts
Finally, we suggest you do not give anything to the local children as it encourages begging. There are schools and organizations where you can donate. Please ask us or your guide about these. That said, guides and porters expect to be tipped, so bring money for them. From handmade jewelry to intricately woven textiles, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Enjoy the Experience!
And finally – enjoy your time on the Everest Base Camp Trek. Take home lots of memories and photographs. And hopefully, come back again!
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