Everest Base Camp is one of the highest trekking routes in the world. The ideal trek route starts from Lukla Airport at the elevation of 2,600 meters (8530 feet). And proceeds to the greatest altitude of 5,500 meters (18,044 feet) at Kala Patthar. The trail includes the treks at the high altitudes and very high altitude.
The route passes through the rugged landscapes with the varying altitudes. If you are planning for this trek collect proper information of the altitude. The basic information about altitude sickness and the trails helps you walk relaxed. Conquering the Everest region will be no difficulty at all.
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Altitude variation in the Everest Base Camp
Trekking in the Everest Base Camp is not like flying to Lukla by flight and the next day you reach the base camp. Actually, this trek is and must be a gradual trek because of the increment in altitudes. The higher the altitude, the lesser oxygen level in the air. When the altitude increases you may have health issues. You may suffer altitude. So it is better to take proper acclimatization before you start for next height.
Here’s an outline of Magical Nepal’s itinerary that shows the change in altitude as you proceed further.
Day 1- Kathmandu to Lukla- 2,600 meters (8,530 feet)
Day 1- Lukla to Phakding- 2,610 meters( 7086 feet)
Day 2- Phakding to Namche Bazar- 3,440 meters(11286 feet)
Day 3- Acclimatization day
Day 4- Namche Bazar to Tengboche- 3,860 meters(12664 feet)
Day 5 – Tengboche to Dingboche-4,410 meters(14468 feet)
Day 6- Acclimatization day
Day 7- Dingboche to Lobuche- 4,940 meters(16207 feet)
Day 8- Lobuche to Gorka Shep- 5,368 meters (17611 feet)
Day 9- Gorka Shep to Kala Patthar- 5,500 meters(18044 feet)
In this way, you start to new height every single day but slow and steady. And take rest( one or more days depending on your time-bound) in the tea-houses and the hotels en route. Adapt to the varying heights and weather changes and continue the next day.
What does it mean when you are coming from sea level?
Not every country are at higher altitudes than the normal sea level. Some countries stretch in the sea level with the altitudes 200 meters (656 feet).
For the people from such places, the altitude of the Kathmandu valley could be surprising. Their excitement increases while landing at Kathmandu, 1400 meters (4593 feet). Which continues even more as they take Lukla flight, 2,600 meters.
New trekkers may feel the altitude too much. So, if you have enough time you can take rest in Kathmandu. Habituate with the weather and altitude of the valley. Then proceed to Lukla for the trek.
While on the route, you must walk slow and careful. You may have difficulty walking in the slopes, rugged pathways. So you have to take a break for proper acclimatization in the villages en route. Spending time with the locals on the trail, you get chances to witness the mountainous lives.
If you have enough time you can choose to go on short and moderate treks in Nepal. And get familiar with the trails, the weather, and the altitude. After such treks, you will have much ease walking in the Everest Base Camp route. Also, your body becomes habituated with the changing altitude.
How to avoid high altitude sickness?
Whenever you travel to the higher altitudes chances are high that you suffer altitude. Some symptoms of the altitude sickness include a headache, nausea, lethargy, and shortness of breath. In case if you feel these symptoms you have to stop walking and rather go for acclimatization. It helps your body adjust to the surrounding.
And to avoid this problem, keep yourself hydrated along the route. The more you drink water the more your body freshens up. And you feel less tired. Most importantly, you should avoid using alcohol and smoking in the trek. Eat frequently, eat light but food rich in calorie.
If you feel sick, take anti-sickness medication like promethazine. You can continue walking once you get proper rest and recover completely.
Hiring a porter
Walking in the altitudes is not a problem if you have earlier trek experiences. But if you are on your first trek you should hire a porter. So that you can walk free, and adjust in the surrounding.
Hiring a porter is quite cheap in Nepal. You can pay them $20 to carry your belongings to the preferred destinations. When they help carry loads, you can walk relaxed and also adjust in the rugged road and altitudes.
Insurance
Travel insurance is a most for the treks in higher altitudes. You never know what comes along your way. So before you proceed, get insured.
In general, travel insurances cover up to the heights of 2,000 meters. But if you are planning for EBC trek, choose the policy that covers you up to 6,000 meters. Also, make sure your policy covers expenses for sickness, injury. Also, do not forget to add helicopter evacuations for immediate rescue.
Note
- Drink enough water and fluids to prevent dehydration
- Spare enough acclimatization days
- If you start feeling sick, presume it to be altitude sickness.
- If its altitude sickness, do not ascend further.
- Take rests and if you feel no change in health, then walk downhill.
- Carry along some basic medicines to prevent altitudes
Conclusion
If you are looking for further information related to the Everest Base Camp tour you can contact us. Or, you if are looking for the best itinerary for the EBC trek, you can give us a chance. We promise to design best travel guides to meet your expectations.
Alternatively, you can do Everest Heli tour to avoid any Altitude related problem.
