Highlights of Everest Base Camp Trek
- Visit the World Heritage Site recognized by UNESCO, Sagarmatha National Park
- Enjoy the panoramic view of Everest (8,848.68 m), Lhotse (8,516 m), Cho Oyu (8,201 m), Makalu (8,463 m), and many more peaks.
- Visit the nearby prayer wheels, prayer flags, and monasteries to purify your spirit.
- Many species of rare flora and fauna.
- Spend some time in the Sherpa people’s homeland.
- At 5,555 meters, Kala Patthar is one of the most breathtaking vistas in the world.
- Khumbu Glacier at 4,900 m high is the world’s tallest glacier.
- Lukla Airport (2,845 m) is the world’s most extreme airport.
15 Days
5545m
Moderate
2-12 People
Trekking and Cultural excursion
Hotel, lodge (tea house)
Everest Base Camp Trek Overview
Getting to the top of the world’s highest mountain is still out of reach for many adventure lovers who want to go on the Everest Base Camp trek. Thousands of people around the world set their sights on the Everest Base Camp Trek because they are determined and love nature. The Nepal Himalayas offer a feeling of grandeur.
Explore the stunning beauty of Sagarmatha National Park on this famous walk through the Khumbu Valley. Viewpoints of the world’s four tallest mountains—Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu along with Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Lobuche are truly amazing.
The hike is an extended experience of the beauty of nature. Sounds of birds, animals, and a rare sighting of Danfe (Himalayan monal), pheasants, and musk deer can be seen. You might also hear the rare snow leopards rumbling through Sagarmatha National Park.
You can see some of the world’s highest villages as you follow the paths of pioneers like Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay. You can learn about Sherpa culture and how they feel being connected to the Himalayas. Seeing the sun go down from Kalapatthar is an experience that will stay with you forever. The formation of golden color over the dazzling white mountains will bring tears of joy and an immense feeling of achievement.
The trek through the holy mountains is a magical way to find out more about yourself. The humming sounds coming from monasteries can be heard in the background of the trail. Their strong resonance has a deep effect. The Everest Base Camp trek is a life-changing experience that reconnects trekkers deeply with the majestic Himalayas. It includes visits to local villages and learning about Sherpa’s history and customs.
Everest Base Camp Trek Best Season
In the higher parts of this region, the weather can get really cold and tough. But, there are times when it gets milder which makes it great for trekking. It is important to know the weather patterns when you are planning for the Everest Base Camp Trek.
Spring is a super popular season to trek in the Nepal Himalayas. There might still be a bit of snow if winter is ending. But overall, the weather is stable and dry making this season perfect for trekking and climbing. It is also a great time for blooming rhododendrons, and many Everest summits happen in spring. So, in the spring season, you might likely meet lots of climbers.
Autumn is another fantastic season. It’s colder, especially at night, but you get amazing views. Plus, you can explore less crowded routes with equally stunning scenery.
Winter is very cold, but you can still trek. Days are shorter, there’s more snow, and you might cross big passes. The weather is stable and dry, so the classic route is doable. If you don’t mind the cold and want fewer crowds, winter trekking could be for you.
During the monsoon season, it rains a lot. The routes are quiet, with only the bravest trekkers facing the rain. Slippery trails, leeches, and poor mountain views usually discourage most people from visiting.
Everest Base Camp Trek Difficulty
Trek to Everest Base Camp is kind of like a moderate-level difficulty. It usually takes about two weeks to complete the trek. You don’t have to be a trekking expert but it is good to be determined and physically fit.
The tough part is dealing with the high altitude and low oxygen levels. The trek starts from 3,000 meters, and the base camp is 5,400 meters above sea level. It is smart to get advice from a doctor and read up on altitude sickness before you start the trek.
Even though the distance isn’t huge, the trek is on high ground and not on nice, smooth paths. It’s more like rocky, steep trails. To get up and down, people use yaks, porters, and Sherpas. They carry stuff, and these guys are like the taxis of Everest Base Camp.
Altitude sickness
Altitude sickness can happen when you go to high places like Mount Everest Base Camp without letting your body get used to it. A lot of people worry about how they would feel at such heights before going on a trek to Everest Base Camp. It is important to prepare for Everest Base Camp even if it is not the highest point.
If you are cautious and take the proper precautions, you should simply feel the normal effects of being in a high elevation. However, if you walk too fast then you risk suffering from extreme mountain sickness. This is when your body can’t adjust to the lower oxygen levels as you go higher. Dehydration, drinking alcohol, and not getting enough sleep can also bring altitude sickness.
Being aware of the symptoms and telling your trek leader is essential to avoiding altitude sickness during the Everest Base Camp trip. It is possible to reduce your risk of illness in addition to these additional measures. Making steady progress while taking enough acclimatization to allow your body to acclimate is important. Make sure to sleep in places that are lower than our daily walking routes. We’ll make sure you drink enough water along the way. Drinking at least five liters of water each day on your trek can help you keep hydrated and prevent altitude sickness.
Everest Base Camp Trek Permit
To do the Everest Base Camp Trek, you need two permits. One is the Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit, which costs NPR 2,000 per person for the first four weeks for foreigners. After four weeks, it becomes Rs. 2,500 per person. No VAT is added.
The second permit is the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit. For foreign nationals, it’s NPR 3,000 per person, while for SAARC nationals, it’s NPR 1,500. Nepalis pay NPR 100, and there’s an extra 13% VAT. Kids under 10 enter for free, and you need your passport for this permit.
Food, Accommodation, Transportation
It is crucial to eat the right foods to keep your energy up during the Everest Base Camp Trek. You will mostly find Nepalese food on your trek, which is full of flavors and spices. A common dish is lentil soup (Dal), rice (Bhat), and vegetables (Tarkari), providing the protein and carbs you need for long hikes.
What’s special about this trek is the variety of accommodations available. Small lodges are scattered along the trail, offering basic amenities and a unique cultural experience. Though simple, these lodges give you a cozy place to rest after a day of trekking. The rooms vary from more comfortable Western-style toilets to basic squat toilets, depending on the location.
The Everest Base Camp trek starts with a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. The flight takes about 30-40 minutes which is the quickest and most reliable transportation. If you’re on a tight schedule or prefer a more comfortable trek, you can even do an Everest Base Camp trek with a helicopter tour. For those with more time, there’s also the option of a longer trek from Jiri to Everest Base Camp.
Everest Base camp Trek packing list:
Clothing:
- Moisture-wicking long-sleeve t-shirts (3)
- Moisture-wicking short-sleeve t-shirt (1)
- Heavy fleece or down jacket
- Gortex or waterproof jacket with hood
- Windbreaker
- Rain poncho
- Fleece pants
- Trekking pants (2)
- Hiking shorts (2)
- Waterproof pants
- Hiking socks (10)
- Warm thermal socks (1)
- Long underwear (2)
- Underwear (10)
- Hiking boots with ankle support
- Camp shoes or tennis shoes
- Light inner gloves/glove liners
- Insulated wool or down mittens/gloves
- Sunglasses
- Broad-brimmed hat
- Neck gaiter or bandana (for sun protection)
- Wool hat or balaclava (should cover ears)
- Gaiters (needed Dec-Feb)
- Sweatshirt (optional)Sock liners (optional)
Trekking Gear & Supplies
- Duffel bag for carrying gear via porters (provided by Family Adventure Treks if you’re trekking with us)
- 40 Liter Day pack for carrying what you need on the trail
- Waterproof cover for day pack
- Water bottles or hydration bladder (i.e. CamelBak)
- Sleeping bag rated to -18°C/ 0°F (available for rental if you’re trekking Everest Base Camp through Family Adventure Treks )
- Trekking poles
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Lightweight water filter or iodine water tablets (personal preference)
- Hand warmers
- Travel pillow or pillowcase
- Sleeping bag stuff sack
- Dry bags in several sizes
- Stuff sacks for dirty clothes/shoes
- Camera with extra batteries and memory cards
- Small lock(s) for duffel bag and day pack
- Sleeping bag liner (optional)
- Quick-drying trekking towel (optional)
Food & Snacks
- Snacks (combine protein & carbs for well-balanced energy)
- Thermos (optional for hot beverages)
- Re-hydration gels or powder
Toiletries
- Sunscreen
- Lip balm with sunscreen
- Toilet Paper
- Moleskin, medical tape, and/or duct tape for treating/preventing blisters
- Advil or Ibuprofen
- Diamox (for altitude sickness)
- Personal prescriptions
- Antibiotics (Cipro for travelers’ diarrhea)
- Anti-chafe balm (e.g. Body Glide, to prevent chafing)
- Diaper rash cream (Can treat rashes or chaffing)
- Soap
- Deodorant
- Toothbrush/toothpaste
- Razor (as needed)
- Shampoo
- Wet wipes
- Hand sanitizer
- Feminine hygiene products (as needed)
- Face lotion
- Hairbrush
- Hair ties
EBC Trek Internet facilities
The easiest way to get on the internet is using your mobile phone, and you can do this on the Everest Base Camp Trek. Since 2010, there’s been 3G connectivity provided by a Nepalese company linked to a Swedish one. They’ve set up base stations along the trek, from Lukla to Gorak Shep. The mobile internet is fast, letting you browse and make video calls, which is much cheaper than using satellite phones. Many trekkers find this mobile internet good enough for their needs.
There are Wi-Fi connections during the trek, but they are limited to certain higher altitudes. Because of the high terrain, you might also experience a slow connection. Traditional Wi-Fi spots are there too, but they’re not free and not very common. That’s why we suggest getting a SIM card and using 3G.
Travel Insurance
It’s important to get proper insurance coverage if you plan on going to Everest Base Camp. Even small injuries like an ankle injury can become a big problem in this remote area. Insurance helps cover the costs and logistics of unexpected situations. Choosing the right insurance can be tricky because the details can be lengthy and confusing.
While accidents during mountain treks are not common, they can still happen. Being in a remote area and at high altitudes can turn minor injuries into serious issues quickly. Your insurance should cover the possibility of a helicopter evacuation in case of a severe injury or altitude sickness. Make sure this is included in the standard hospitalization coverage of your insurance policy.
Few FAQs
Can a beginner trek Everest Base Camp?
Everest Base Camp Trek is a challenging adventure that requires physical fitness, mental preparation, and the ability to acclimatize to high altitudes. It is a popular trek and many beginners complete it so it is important to be aware of the difficulties.
What is the maximum age for Everest Base Camp Trek?
There is no strict maximum age limit for the Everest Base Camp trek. The age can vary widely in your physical fitness and mental state. There is a history of people in their 60s and 70s completing this trek. However, it is also essential to consider your health, fitness fitness, and any pre-existing medical conditions.
How much does it cost to trek to Everest Base Camp?
The price for the Everest Base Camp Trek ranges from $800 to $5000. The price will fully depend upon what amenities you are looking for during the trek. The route you choose, duration, transportation, and time of year will influence the cost it takes for Everest Base Camp Trekking.
How many km per day do i have to walk for Everest Base Camp?
The distance covered per day during the Everest Base Camp trek can vary based on the specific itinerary chosen, the trekker’s pace, and the acclimatization schedule. On average, trekkers cover approximately 10 to 15 kilometers per day during the trek.
What is the hardest day at Everest Base Camp?
One of the most challenging days for many trekkers is often considered to be the day of the trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep, with an optional side trip to Everest Base Camp.
Is trekking to Everest Base Camp worth it?
Many people consider trekking to Everest Base Camp to be a greatly satisfying and changing experience. The scenery ranges from lush green forests and attractive villages to rough terrains and snow-capped summits. You may learn about Sherpa culture and hospitality. Visits to monasteries, prayer flags, and interactions with people offer insight into the unique Himalayan way of life.
What preparation should I do before the Everest Base Camp Trek?
Regular cardiovascular and weight training exercises should be done to increase stamina and endurance. Consult a physician to ensure you are physically healthy for high-altitude trekking. Make sure your plan includes acclimatization days to help your body to adjust to the higher altitude. Buy full travel insurance which includes coverage for high-altitude trekking, medical emergencies, and evacuation. You should also be sure about the proper trekking equipment, including a good-quality, well-fitting pair of hiking boots.
Is the Everest Base Camp trek crowded?
Yes, the Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek is known to be a popular and frequently traveled route, making it relatively crowded during peak trekking seasons.