Everest Base Camp Trek

In an ideal world, most of us would love to stand on the top of the world, 8,848m high on Mt Everest.

Realistically, most of us are not going to be able to achieve this! But if you are of good fitness and strong determination, you can make it to Everest Base Camp!

And between you and me, the views of Everest from Kalapatthar are the most spectacular you can get without having to spend weeks trudging up to the summit!

Hopefully, you have gone through our sections about the Everest Base Camp Trek and have gathered all the information you need to help you make the decision as to when you would like to do this trek, what to bring with you on the EBC trek and some of the highlights of the trek itself. We believe this is one of the best trekking routes in the world!

Everest Base Camp Trek Highlights

• Stand at the base of Mt Everest in awe of its majesty and size
• Witness the sun setting over Everest from Kalapatthar, known as the Everest viewpoint
• Fly into the high altitude Hilary Tenzing Airport at Lukla, an experience in itself
• Visit Sherpa villages with their Tibetan like peoples and yak herders
• Stay in Namche Bazaar, the starting point for all Everest expeditions
• Be stunned by the chilling beauty of the Khumbu Glacier and Khumbu Icefalls
• Use the essential acclimatization days to learn something of the lifestyle of the Sherpas
• Pass through Sagarmatha National Park with its unique flora and fauna
• Follow the footsteps of Sir Edmund Hillary and many other famous mountaineers
• Visit Tengboche Monastery with its strong spiritual connection

This is not a luxury tour, this is an experience of a lifetime!

Accommodation is on a twin-share basis. Hot showers, wifi, and power sources are provided, with a small charge. The rooms might not be luxurious, but where else can you get views of the Himalayas mountains from your window?

Enjoy fresh Himalayan foods in teahouses along the trail. Where else can you be part of such beauty that is the Khumbu Valley while enjoying steaming hot DalBhat?

A good level of fitness is required. But we will ensure you are well acclimatized to the altitude. We suggest you keep well hydrated on the trek, keeping alcohol to a minimum.

If you don’t want to trek but wish to see Everest, check out Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour.

Permits Required For Everest Base Camp Trek

Naturally, to preserve the beauty that surrounds Mt. Everest and the other mountains in the Himalayan range, the Government of Nepal imposes permit entrance fees.

All national parks in Nepal need a permit, and the Sagarmatha National Park is no different.  When you compare the cost of the permits to the overall cost of your trip to Nepal and the Everest Region, the amount is relatively small and is an investment in the future of this beautiful area with its snow, forests, ice, pastures, and culture.

Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay may have been the people to put the Khumbu on the map but since then countless mountaineers and trekkers have enjoyed the beauty of the likes of Mt. Everest, Ama Dablam, Goyko Lakes, and much more.  Let’s ensure this area stays as it is for future trekkers and Nepali people.

For the Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek you need entrance permits as explained below:-

1. Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit (NPR 2000 Per Person)
2. Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit (NPR 3000 Per Person)

Click here to know more about Everest base camp trek permits

Everest Base Camp Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Welcome to Kathmandu

• Accommodation: Hotel

On your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel.

Your hotel is in the center of the city, in the vibrant and colourful area known as Thamel. With its restaurants, bars, and shops with unique Nepali handcrafted items and trekking gear this is an interesting place to spend the afternoon.

There will be the opportunity to meet your guide today and ask any questions you still may have about your trip to Everest Base Camp.

Day 2: Kathmandu to Lukla (Flight) to Phakding

• Flight time: 35 to 40 minutes
• Trek time: 3 to 4 hours
• Accommodation: Tea House

Due to changes in the regulations and upgrading at the domestic airport in Kathmandu, it is very likely that flights to Lukla will operate out of Manthali Airport in Ramechhap District.

This involves a four-hour drive from Kathmandu during the night.  The flight from Manthali will depart early in the morning and take 20 minutes.

On arrival in Lukla our experienced, local porters will meet you. Heading down the trail to Phakding we already notice the fluttering Tibetan prayer flags and meet local people reciting Tibetan mantras as they walk.

Day 3: Phakding to Namche

• Trek time: 5 to 6 hours
• Accommodation: Tea House

Today the trail takes us through forests, traditional villages with their ploughed fields, and yak pastures. As we reach the entrance to the Sagarmatha National Park we can see Thamserku rising above us.

After lunch, we continue on to Namche Bazaar. This is the largest Sherpa village in the Khumbu Region and is the starting point for expeditions and trekking groups.

Here you can purchase a few last minutes items (such as chocolate) should you have forgotten to do so in Kathmandu.

Day 4: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazar

• Trek time: 5 to 6 hours
• Accommodation: Tea House

Today is an acclimatization day to allow our bodies to adjust to the high altitude.  But that doesn’t mean we do anything! The best way to acclimatize is to be active.

There is an opportunity to spend a few hours hiking around the area or visiting Visit the school set by Sir Edmund Hillary in the Khumjung village as a thank you for all the assistance the Sherpa people gave him in his successful ascent of Mt Everest.

Some of the mountains on view today are Kwangde (6,011m), Thamserku (6,623m), Kangtega (6,782m), Nuptse (7,861m), Lhotse (8,516m), Ama Dablam (6,812m) and, of course, Mount Everest (8,848m).

Day 5: Namche to Tengboche

• Trek time: 5 to 6 hours
• Accommodation: Tea House

Today, there are not many steep ascents and descents today which gives plenty of time to concentrate on photography!  Stupas (Buddhist shrines), prayer flags, mani walls (walls with Buddhist prayers carved into them), mountains, such as Ama Dablam, and Tengboche Monastery are all worth photographing.

The trail up to Tengboche is a dusty switchback route but the panoramic views from the monastery make it all worthwhile. If you are lucky you will be able to attend a service, for which a small donation would be appreciated.  Definitely, you can light some butter lamps.

Day 6: Tengboche to Dingboche

• Trek time: 4 to 5 hours
• Accommodation: Tea House

The trail is of course very scenic, but also quite challenging today.  We start off following the Imja Khola before climbing up to the windswept fields (mainly potato) of Dingboche.

This is the highest Sherpa settlement in the Khumbu Region.  The views of Ama Dablam from here are particularly spectacular and dramatic. As we will arrive at Dingboche in time for lunch. The rest of the afternoon is free to relax with a book or simply gaze at the surrounding mountains.

Day 7: Acclimatization Day in Dingboche

• Trek time: 4 to 5 hours
• Accommodation: Tea House

With the ever-rising altitude, it is important to take another day to acclimatize.  There are a number of options available for short hikes today.

Such as visiting the base of Nangkar Tshang Peak, with its sacred sites and views of Mt Makalu. This trip is a 3.5 to 5 hours round trip and the ascending altitude on this hike will help our bodies prepare for the high altitudes ahead.

Day 8: Dingboche to Lobuche

• Trek time: 4 to 5 hours
• Accommodation: Tea House

Today the trek begins with a gentle climb towards the Pheriche Valley.  Trekking above the valley floor we pass through alpine scrub and yak pastures.  On display are Tawoch and Cholotse, with Ama Dablam behind us. From here it appears Ama Dablam is rising directly from the valley floor.

The trail continues on to Thokla Pass where the ascent is challenging.  Again a photographer’s paradise as there are panoramic views of Nuptse, Lhotse, Lhotse Shar, and a few other 7,000 plus meter peaks!

After crossing the pass we reach Lobuche. Not a very attractive settlement in itself, the scenery surrounding it is both beautiful and dramatic.

Day 9: Lobuche to Gorakshep (Afternoon hike to Kalapatthar)

• Trek time: 6 to 7 hours
• Accommodation: Tea House

This is an exciting day!  Today we ascent to the viewpoint for Everest.  First, the trail takes us for about 3 hours over boulders and rough terrain to the small settlement of Gorakshep.

After lunch starts out for Kalapatthar from where the views of Everest are simply the best views you can possibly get. At 5,545m this is the highest altitude we can trek in Nepal without requiring climbing permits. Its name means black rock, and it is more of a ridge than a mountain.

If the weather is not clear, we may leave Kalapatthar for the morning as sunrise is over Everest is equally as awe-inspiring as sunset is.  Should we decide on this option, today we will hike to Everest Base Camp itself. Please be aware, trekking groups do not go right into the base camp where expeditions are set up.

This is so we do not disturb the activity of the climbers nor place their health at risk.  (We don’t want to give them our colds and flu when they are embarking on such an epic journey!) But we get a good view of all the on-going activity.

Day 10: Gorakshep to Pheriche (Morning Hike to EBC)

• Trek time: 7 to 8 Hours
• Accommodation: Tea House

If we didn’t make it to Kalapatthar yesterday, we will do this morning, returning to Gorakshep for breakfast.  Similarly, if we did not visit Everest Base Camp on day 09 we will do that this morning. Each trip takes 3 – 4 hours to return from Gorakshep.

After breakfast, we head to Pheriche, approximately 4 hours.  This little settlement houses the Himalayan Rescue Association Clinic.

Long established it is now a hospital but still remains focused on altitude sickness and altitude-related problems of trekkers and climbers as well as the health of the local people.  Staffed mainly by volunteer medical personnel, this is an interesting feature of the area.

Day 11: Pheriche to Namche Bazaar

• Trek time: 6 to 7 hours
• Accommodation: Tea House

The trail descends quite considerably today, but there are some uphills to be tackled also! As we approach Namche the forests and greenery return.

This is a long day of walking, made harder by the hard hiking the day before. But push on because a good dinner and a hot shower await! And now is the opportunity to celebrate your successful trek to Everest Base Camp with a beer!

And with wifi available now is also time to touch base with loved ones at home and perhaps upload a few pictures of your trip.

Day 12: Namche to Lukla

• Trek time: 5 to 6 hours
• Accommodation: Tea House

In the earlier part of the day, take a good final look at the magnificent Himalayan mountains, and say goodbye to the Khumbu Valley and Mount Everest. Then put your head down as we make a final long ascent into Lukla.

Day 13: Lukla to Kathmandu (Flight)

• Flight time: 35 to 40 minutes
• Accommodation: Hotel

This morning says goodbye to Mt Everest and the Khumbu Region as we board our flight back to either Kathmandu or Manthali Airport.  Depending on which airport is open at that time, and of course weather conditions, either we will be back in Kathmandu for brunch or in the early afternoon. Then there is time to do some shopping before our farewell dinner in the evening.

Day 14: Departure

After breakfast, our representative will take you to Tribhuvan International Airport in time for your onward flight.  Should you be staying longer in Nepal or have a late flight, please note hotel check-out time is 11 am.

Includes

Equipments

The following gives you a general idea of trekking equipment and clothing needed for the Everest Base Camp trek.

Everest Base Camp Trek FAQ

Everest Base Camp Trek Map

View The Map

When is the Best Time to do the Everest Base Camp Trek?

The generic answer to this question is ‘spring and autumn, but of course, we cannot guarantee the weather in such a uniquely high location.  While we do see trekkers and climbers coming pretty much year-round, there are definite times when the weather is more suitable for the average trekker.  

Spring (March to May) is a busy time on this trek as the sky and mountain views are clear.  Plus, the temperatures are the best you will get at this altitude – up to a maximum of 20 degrees centigrade in the day and around 5 degrees at night.

Monsoon (June to August) is when many folks in the west take annual leave, but this is not the best time to visit the Khumbu (Everest) Region.  Incessant rain can make the hardiest trekker miserable and the trails more slippery.  Flights into Lukla are frequently canceled due to the weather; you should build that into your plans.  On the plus side, the trails and guest houses are less busy, and it feels like a blessing when the sun is out. 

Autumn (September to November) is the second most popular time to come to the Everest Region, and the views are also stunning.  On the downside, lodges can be busy and colder on nights.  There is a possibility of snowfall, which can be a glass half empty, glass half full situation – either you love the added enchantment snow brings or dislike having to wrap up warmly.  As a bonus, this is festival time in Nepal, and your guides and locals will be in a celebratory mood, making your trip even more memorable. 

Winter (December to February) is definitely for the more experienced trekker.  The weather is unpredictable, and trails can change in a matter of hours due to snow. The sky will most likely be clear, and the scenery changes daily as snow drifts in.  On the positive side, fewer trekkers will be on the trail and lodges.  But if this is for you, let’s discuss the possibilities as lodges often close for the winter season as locals go down to lower altitudes to wait out the cold.  

What is the Accommodation Like on the Everest Base Camp Trek?

Hotels – Your adventure starts and ends in Kathmandu, where we offer you a good hotel standard on a twin-sharing basis.  If you would like something in the 5-star range, we can offer this at an additional cost.  Just ask us.

Teahouses – The lodges on the trekking trails are known as teahouses.  On the EBC trek, all the teahouses are of the same standard.  They provide a mattress and usually a blanket.  But we suggest you bring your own sleeping bag.  Teahouses offer twin accommodations as a rule.  

Luxury lodges – Some luxury lodges are at lower altitudes within the Everest Region. While these are not up to Marriott or Hyatt standards, they are extremely comfortable with a good range of standard amenities.  If this is something that interests you, we can point you to our Everest Luxury Lodge Trek for more information.  

What is the Food Like on the Everest Base Camp Trek?

There is plenty of good, multi-cuisine options on this trek, from pizza to chowmein and porridge to omelets. However, above 3,000m (basically above Namche Bazaar), we recommend you not to eat meat because, normally, teahouses do not have refrigerators. They do, though’ have a great selection of vegetarian meals. In the larger towns, such as Namche and Lukla, there are more options available – even bakery items fresh from the baker’s oven and a pub.   

Acclimatizing During the EBC Trek 

As soon as you arrive at the airport at Lukla, you are at an altitude of 2,860m – having left Kathmandu at 1,440m an hour earlier.  By the time you reach Namche, you have reached 3,440m above sea level.  At this height, some may begin to see their bodies react to the altitude.  Our guides are well trained in the signs of altitude sickness and what to do should any trekker suffer from this.  Our trek leaders and guides will also carry an oximeter to monitor your oxygen level should there be any questions. But avoidance is better than cure, so keep well hydrated and alert the guide to any changes in your body.  

To avoid problems, we have an acclimatization day at Namche Bazaar and another at Dingboche. 

Acclimatization days don’t mean you are doing nothing.  It means walking around at a higher altitude and sleeping at a lower altitude to accustom your body to the height.  On our EBC trek, we have built-in interesting things to do and see on these two days.  

Are There Hot Showers and Electricity on this Trek?

Yes, hot showers are available, but you must pay for them.  Why? Gas canisters are brought in from nearby cities and carried to teahouses.  That is an expensive journey.  You will be expected to pay around $3 to $5 per shower, depending on the height of your lodge. We recommend you conserve energy (and your money) and don’t shower too often.  And the effort to take off and put on clothes might be too much in the cooler weather.  

As for electricity, most teahouses now depend on solar power, installed at a considerable cost.  Therefore, they will ask you to pay to charge your equipment – $3 to $5 per item.  We suggest you carry your own power bank or portable solar charger. 

How High is Everest Base Camp?

Everest Base Camp sits at 5,364m (17,598 ft). 

However, you will go even higher – Kalapathar (the Everest viewpoint with astounding views) is 5,545m (18,192 ft).  As this is a day hike, this should not cause any problems as you will return to a lower altitude to sleep. 

Tell Me About the Flight to Lukla

Lukla Airport (actually called the Tenzing Hillary Airport after the first two men to ascend Everest) sits at an altitude of 2,846m (9,337 ft).  To safely fly into the airport, good weather is required at the starting and ending point.  We always recommend that our guests leave for two days at the end of their trek as a contingency plan in case the weather closes.  You don’t want to miss your international flight.  

As a result of this uncertainty about whether – the weather needs to be good at Kathmandu and Lukla as well as everywhere in between – and the fact that there can be a build-up of tourists waiting for flights should the weather turn bad, another airport has been recently utilized for flights to Lukla.

Namecheap Airport is situated on the Terai and is closer to Lukla than Kathmandu.  The weather at Namecheap is generally better than that at Kathmandu. Thus, there is less build-up of delayed flights.  On the downside, the airport is an hour’s drive from Kathmandu.  This requires tourists to drive (organized bus) through the night to reach Ramechap in time for their early morning flight to Lukla.  Departures by bus from Kathmandu are around  3 am.    We can look at this positively – another adventure to be had and new scenery to see on route.  If you have doubts, please ask us. 

Helicopters are sometimes used to reach the Everest Region more quickly. There are several options available.  For those not able to spend the time trekking, there is a short half-day tour, with a landing on Kalapathar for close-up views of Everest and Everest View Hotel for breakfast. Ask us about the Breakfast on Everest Heli Tour. For those who do want to trek, there is the option to arrive at Lukla by helicopter. Naturally, arriving by helicopter rather than plane adds to the expense, and there must be others in your group to make up the numbers (unless you want to charter a whole helicopter). Please ask us about this option.

Will I be Able to Communicate with Those at Home During the EBC Trek?

There is Wi-Fi and cellular signals at all stages of this trek.  This is weather-dependent, however.  And trickier as you go higher.  Let friends and family know you may be out of communication for several days so they do not worry.  

Related Trips in Everest Region

Everest View Trek | Gokyo Lake Trek | Gokyo Chola Pass EBC Trek | Everest Three Pass Trek | Jiri To Everest Base Camp Trek | Island Peak Climbing | Lobuche Peak Climbing | Mera And Island Peak Climbing | Mera Peak Climbing | Baruntse Expedition | Everest Helicopter Tour