Everest Base Camp Trek - 14 Days

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The Everest Base Camp trek is "The It" trekking destination in the world. If you are into trekking or mountains, you gotta experience the Everest Base Camp trek at least once.

  • Duration 14 Days
  • Trip Grade
    Moderate
  • Country Nepal
  • Maximum Altitude 5,545 m.
  • Group Size 1-12 People
  • Starts Kathmandu
  • Ends Kathmandu
  • Activities Trekking and Hike
  • Best Time Autumn and Spring

The Everest Base Camp trek is one of the most adventurous, fulfilling, panoramic, and life-changing trekking programs in the Himalayas of Nepal. You will fly across the world to Kathmandu, a bustling Nepali city known for its ancient temples and palaces.

From Kathmandu, you will take a very uncomfortable but thrilling and scenic short flight to Lukla Airport. The Lukla flight is nothing less than an adventure in itself. Flying in a tiny-tinny propeller aircraft is something you do not experience every day.

The trek starts from Lukla. If you want to buy trekking clothes and essentials in Kathmandu (which we highly recommend), arrive here one day before the trek starts.

There are tons of shops selling all kinds of trekking clothes, gear, and other essentials in Thamel, the tourist hub in Kathmandu. You will find budget-friendly to mid-range and ample high-end trekking gear.

And trekkers who do not wish to invest a lot of money into high-quality gear but would love to use them can rent. Coming back to Lukla, you will meet your porter here. Trekking with a guide and porter is very normal.

We will arrange a friendly, expert guide and porter for you if you book the Everest Base Camp trek with us. The guide will most likely meet you in Kathmandu and join you for the journey.

From Lukla, you will trek all the way up to the Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar. Mind it, there is no road for vehicles along the Everest Base Camp trek route, so travelers have to walk.

In total, the Everest Base Camp trek distance is 130 kilometers. You will walk 65 km while ascending and follow almost the same route and distance while returning back to Lukla.

Trekkers who are on a short vacation or just want to skip the return 65 km walk can opt for a helicopter flight from Gorak Shep to Lukla or Kathmandu. Gorak Shep is the last settlement before EBC and also the way to Kala Patthar.

So, helicopter flights for trekkers are usually operated from here. In between Lukla and Everest Base Camp, you will spend seven nights in different Sherpa villages.

Our Everest Base Camp trek itinerary includes two acclimatization days that extensively lower the risk of altitude sickness. Sherpas are one of the major inhabitants of the Everest region (aka Khumbu region in Nepali words).

You must know them for their strength and resilience, but they are also very friendly, fun, and kind human beings. Every trekker who does the Everest Base Camp trek always raves about how nice Sherpas and other local communities are.

For us, reaching the Everest Base Camp is not everything about this trek. The journey, the interactions with the locals, the simple mountain lifestyle and delicious meals, beautiful sunrises & sunsets, the company of fellow trekkers from around the world, the strong trekking community, the mesmerizing landscapes and never-ending mountain vistas, the bustling evenings in lodges and peaceful moments in between the trekking hustle, and the rich cultural heritage makes more sense. These are the things that make the Everest Base Camp trek "Great"!

Highlights

  • Embark on the top trekking adventure and hike to the base of Mt. Everest, the tallest mountain on Earth
  • One of the most adventurous, fulfilling, panoramic, and life-changing trekking programs in the Himalayas
  • Explore Kathmandu, a bustling Nepali city known for its ancient temples and palaces
  • Experience the famous Lukla flights in a tiny-tinny propeller aircraft
  • Trek through rhododendron forests and cross several suspension bridges
  • Spend nights in beautiful Sherpa villages and meet many other mountain communities
  • Go on exciting side hikes during acclimatization in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche village
  • Visit ancient monasteries like Tengboche and Pangboche along the trail
  • Reach the Everest Base Camp and see the close view of the Khumbu Icefall
  • Witness a stunning sunrise and a surreal panorama of Mt. Everest from Kala Patthar
  • Enjoy a simple mountain lifestyle, delicious meals, and bustling evenings in lodges
  • Witness diverse landscapes and breathtaking mountain vistas throughout the journey

What to expect during the Everest Base Camp trek?

The Everest Base Camp trek is a full package. Adventure, cultural experiences, tranquility, challenges, wilderness, you name it, and this trek has that.

There is never a dull moment during the Everest Base Camp trekking!

  • Varying weather and climate conditions: You will traverse different climatic zones during the Everest Base Camp trek 14 days. So, you will experience varying weather and climate conditions. With the increase in altitude, the exposure to sun and wind increases, and the climate gets colder.
  • Lots of uphill and downhill walking: You cannot guess the amount of uphill and downhill walking the Everest Base Camp trek includes. For the entire 130 km, you will either ascend or descend. And the sections that have flat trails are also not normal flats. It's a "Nepali Flat". That's why your fitness plays a big role in making the EBC trek challenging or moderate for you. Check out our Everest Base Camp trek map below for an illustrated view of the trail.
  • Acclimatization days: Our Everest Base Camp trek itinerary has two rest days. One is in Namche Bazaar, and the other is in Dingboche village. These are rest days during which trekkers hike to high elevations and return to sleep at the same village to acclimatize. From Namche Bazaar, you will hike to Hotel Everest View, and from Dingboche, you will hike to Nangkartshang Peak.
  • Rugged terrain and diverse vegetation: The Everest Base Camp trail follows rugged mountainous terrain. You will trek through lush rhododendron and pine forests and gradually ascend to bushes and alpine pastures before making it to the glacier zone. Given this variation in elevation, you will discover diverse vegetation while trekking.
  • So many suspension bridges: You will be surprised to see the number of suspension bridges you cross, especially between Lukla and Namche Bazaar. Among all suspension bridges, the longest one is the Tenzing Hillary Suspension Bridge. It is 135 meters high and 600 meters long.
  • High altitude and potential risks of altitude sickness: The Everest Base Camp trek is a high-altitude trek that will take you above 5,500 meters above sea level. If you are not used to high elevations, trekking will become challenging. It doesn't only make the trek physically demanding but also contains the risk of altitude sickness. So, we take acclimatization breaks and ascend slowly.
  • Busy trails and bustling evenings in lodges: Spring and autumn are peak seasons for the Everest Base Camp trek. Thousands of trekkers do this trek in these two seasons. Therefore, the trails and the lodges are busy. The environment is quite delightful. If you love meeting new people, you are in heaven.
  • Extra charge for basic services: Life in the Everest region is not that easy. Everything costs money. Bringing food and other essentials up in the mountains is expensive, and there is no infrastructure for a stable electricity or mobile network. So, locals have extensively invested in alternatives like solar power, and therefore, little things like charging and hot showers cost extra money.
  • Unreliable network: Consider your Everest Base Camp trek a break from the digital world. Inform your family about your itinerary and share our contact with them. During the trek, do not think about the internet at all. Just enjoy nature and the journey.
  • Ancient monasteries, stupas, chortens, and prayer flags throughout the trail: As much as the Everest region is remote, the cultural heritage of the locals is equally rooted. Mountains, lakes, and valleys are sacred to the locals. The Everest Base Camp trail has many stupas, prayer flags, prayer wheels, etc. You will also visit ancient monasteries like Tengboche and Pangboche during hiking.
  • Diverse scenery and the uncountable number of mountains: Trekking at varying altitudes means you will enjoy diverse landscapes. From lush Himalayan foothills to the barren glacier moraines, the scenery will be unbelievable. Similarly, you will see mountains, including Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Thamserku, Ama Dablam, Pumori, etc.
  • Constant exhaustion from long walks yet never-ending motivation to move ahead: Trekking to Everest Base Camp is not easy. You will get tired, and your body will hurt. But the excitement of reaching the lap of the tallest mountain in the world and the adventure that it holds will not let you give up.

Are you ready for the Everest Base Camp trek trek?

The hype surrounding trekking to Everest Base Camp has somewhat overshadowed the challenge it poses. It's great that now we see more trekkers than ever before doing the Everest Base Camp trek, but not all of them are ready for this trek.

The Everest Base Camp trek is challenging, especially for a first-time trekker not aware of the amount of uphill and downhill walking required each day during the trek. You have to be physically fit to enjoy this multi-day trek in the Himalayas.

Likewise, trekkers have to be willing to push themselves and get out of their comfort zone. Trekking to Everest Base Camp involves adjusting to bare minimum services and accommodation (unless you are doing a luxury EBC trek).

On top of that, you will be barely connected to the digital world and spend most of your time enjoying nature and the company of fellow trekkers. Your bustling life suddenly sees a full break. You will be traversing rugged mountain terrain at high altitudes, experiencing varying climate conditions.

So, are you ready to do the Everest Base Camp trek?

Why do the Everest Base Camp trek with Walkers Expedition

The Everest Base Camp trek has always been a top trek, and these days, its popularity has increased even more. Trekking to Everest Base Camp is no longer just a dream. It has become a big part of people's lives who want to push their limits and achieve extraordinary things.

We, Walkers Expedition, are presenting one of the best Everest Base Camp trek packages and obviously very approachable pricing. Our expert team streamlines this incredible trek and makes it achievable for all ages of trekkers.

You can do the Everest Base Camp trek in a group or solo with us. 2025 autumn and winter EBC trek bookings are open. If you have the budget, combine a helicopter flight in your itinerary or upgrade to a luxury lodge trek.

  • Expert mountain guide: We have a very long-standing relationship with our guides. They have been assisting trekking from around the world for numerous years. So, you will truly trek with an expert who knows the ins and outs of the Everest region.
  • Guaranteed departure: Our Everest Base Camp trek departures are 100% guaranteed. You do not have to worry about the trip getting canceled. We only cancel the trip if an unseen situation arises that is beyond our control, such as a natural disaster or sudden political instability.
  • Group visibility: If you choose to join one of our fixed departures, we will share the details about the group. As we organize several fixed group departures every season, we have a lot of trekkers from different age groups. We will help you pick the group that will best suit your expectations and energy.
  • Personalized treks: Trekking with us will allow you to personalize the Everest Base Camp trek as per your budget, interests, duration, and fitness. It ensures maximum satisfaction and success rate.
  • 24/7 support: We understand trekking in a new country can get very scary. So, we make sure our trekkers have 24/7 access to our support. You can text or call us anytime for help.
  • Private airport transfers: For Lukla flights, we provide private airport transfers to/from Kathmandu.
  • Complementary duffel bag: If you are not a veteran trekker, then buying a duffel bag for a single trip does not make sense. So, we provide duffel bags for our trekkers to use during the trek.
  • Easy booking process: Trekking to Everest Base Camp is already challenging enough, and we do not want to make booking this trek challenging too. So, we have designed this user-friendly, easy website with the latest updates and a very safe payment gateway. You can book the Everest Base Camp trek in just two minutes with us.
  • No hidden charges: Our Everest Base Camp trek cost is transparent. We share all the possible expenses during this trek with our guests ahead of time so that they do not have to face any surprise expenses.

Everest Base Camp Trek - 14 Days Itinerary

  • Max Altitude:2,846 m/9,337 ft
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Duration:35 minutes flight & 3 hours trek
  • Distance:6.2 km/3.8 miles

Begin your day with a delicious breakfast and the warm hospitality of the locals. After that, you will start hiking to Namche Bazaar. Namche Bazaar is the tourist hub in the Everest region.

It is the biggest Sherpa village and a bustling market with museums, gear shops, cafes, souvenirs shops, bars, and pubs. The trail from Phakding continues through rhododendrons and pine forested hills.

You will cross several suspension bridges including the long Tenzing Hillary Suspension Bridge. After crossing this long bridge, you will arrive at Monjo. It is the checkpost of Sagarmatha National Park.

You will register the trek permits here and keep ascending. The final uphill walk to Namche Bazaar is steep, so you may find it a bit challenging. Tip: maintain your pace and ascend slowly.

  • Max Altitude:3,440 m/11,290 ft
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Duration:6-7 hours
  • Distance:7.4 km/4.6 miles

It is important that trekkers take an acclimatization break in Namche Bazaar before ascending any further to avoid altitude sickness.

For acclimatization, you will hike to the Hotel Everest View early in the morning and may visit Khumjung Monastery as well.

The hike will reward you with stunning views of Mt. Thamserku, Kongde Ri, Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Ama Dablam, etc.

Hotel Everest View is one of the highest luxury hotels in the world. Mt. Everest is visible from all of the hotel windows. After the hike, return to Namche Bazaar to spend the night.

Explore the local market and visit the Sherpa Culture Museum and Everest Photo Gallery. Likewise, if you happen to be in Namche Bazaar on Saturday, do not forget to visit Saturday Market.

  • Max Altitude:3,962 m/13,000 ft
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Duration:4-5 hours

After a good rest in Namche Bazaar, you will continue the hike to Tengboche village. Follow a flat path (Nepali flat) for a couple of hundred meters and reach Kyangjuma.

The view of Ama Dablam and Thamserku are breathtaking on the way. From Kyangjuma, you will walk downhill and cross a suspension bridge over the Dudh Koshi River.

The trail trail then goes through rhododendron and pine forests. You will pass by Sanasa and Phunki Tenga and ascend to Tengboche village.

In this village, you will explore the biggest monastery in the Khumbu region. Likewise, the views of Mt. Everest and Mt. Ama Dablam is also heavenly from here.

  • Max Altitude:3,860 m/12,660 ft
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Duration:5-6 hours
  • Distance:9.2 km/5.7 miles

Continuing the trek from Tengboche village, you will descend to Deboche. From here, you will keep descending to the Imja Khola Valley Floor. The trail goes through lush forests.

Cross a suspension bridge and ascend to Pangboche village. Visit an ancient monastery in Pangboche and then trek to Dingboche via Shomare and Orsho settlements.

Dingboche is known as the Summer Valley of the Everest region. Here, you will see terraced fields of buckwheat, barley, and potatoes.

  • Max Altitude:4,410 m/14,470 ft
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Duration:6 hours
  • Distance:12 km/7.45 miles

You will take another acclimatization break in Dingboche village. This rest day will ensure you are well adjusted to high altitude and further lower the risk of altitude sickness as you ascend to Everest Base Camp.

After a big breakfast, hike to Nangkartshang Peak. The hiking route will be steep and rocky. Upon reaching the top of the peak, you will be rewarded with a grand view of mountains like Cho Oyu, Everest, Makalu, Ama Dablam, etc.

Enjoy the view and descend back to Dingboche village to spend the night.

  • Max Altitude:5,100 m/16,732 ft
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Duration:5 hours

Leaving Dingboche village, you will walk down, enjoying views of mountains like Taboche, Lobuche, and Ama Dablam. In around two hours of walking, you will come across a river.

From here, you will follow a steep route to Thukla. Take a lunch break here and ascend to Dugla Pass. It will be a sharp ascent. You are well above 4,500 meters above at this point.

So, you can feel the high altitude effects quite strongly. From the passes, the trail continues alongside the Khumbu Glacier and passes by rocks and boulders trails.

Lobuche village is situated at the lap of Lobuche Peak. It is one of the famous resting points for trekkers doing the EBC trek.

  • Max Altitude:4,940 m/16,210 ft
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Duration:5-6 hours
  • Distance:8.5 km/5.2 miles

Today, you will reach the Everest Base Camp. There is no teahouse at EBC, so our goal is to hike to the base camp and return to Gorak Shep to spend the night.

After Lobuche, the trail continues along the Khumbu Glacier. The trail is rugged but flat. Enjoy stunning mountain views on the way. Soon, you will traverse a glacier and see the first sight of Gorak Shep.

Upon reaching Gorak Shep, leave your heavy luggage there and hike with a daypack to Everest Base Camp. You can see the iconic huge rock upon reaching the base camp of Everest.

Explore the EBC and enjoy a close view of the Khumbu IceFall that mountaineers climb during the Everest expedition. After spending some time at the base camp, you will follow the same trail back to Gorak Shep to spend the night.

  • Max Altitude:5,364 m/17,598 ft
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Duration:8 hours
  • Distance:15 km/9.32 miles

You will enjoy the last final hike to Kala Patthar today. Wake up before the sun rises and get ready for the excursion. Follow a rocky path behind the settlements of Gorak Shep and hike to Kala Patthar.

As you continue ascending, the ray of the sun slowly breaks, illuminating its golden rays on the surrounding snow-covered mountains. The scenery is breathtaking.

Upon reaching the top of Kala Patthar, you will see a gorgeous sunrise and an outstanding view of Mt. Everest. Along with that, you will also see mountains like Nuptse, Changtse, Lhotse, etc.

After enjoying the view, return to Gorak Shep and have breakfast. Then, you will retrace the same trail back to Lobuche village.

  • Max Altitude:5,545 m/18,129 ft
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Duration:5-6 hours
  • Distance:12 km/7.4 miles

You will leave Lobuche village early in the morning and descend to Thukla following the same trail. From Thukla, follow a different route to Pheriche village.

The trail then follows a less crowded route for a bit and descends to Pangboche village. From here, you will take another route to Phortse village.

  • Max Altitude:3,840 m/12,598 ft
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Duration:5-6 hours
  • Distance:13 km/8 miles

Phortse to Khumjung is a short walk. Enjoy beautiful scenery and stunning mountain vistas on the way. In Khumjung village, you will explore one of the oldest monasteries in the Everest region.

Unlike other villages on the EBC route, the Khumjung village is less crowded. You will enjoy peaceful surroundings and ample time with the locals.

  • Max Altitude:3,790 m/12,434 ft
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Duration:5 hours
  • Distance:10.1 km/6.2 miles

From Khumjung, the trail descends to Namche Bazaar. You will then follow a steep downhill trail and gradually descend to Jorsale. The trail goes through lush forests.

  • Max Altitude:2,740 m/8,989 ft
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Duration:6 hours
  • Distance:18.3 km/11.3 miles

Jorsale to Lukla, you will follow the same path. Trek through lush rhododendron and magnolia forests. Cross many suspension bridges on the way. From Phakding, the trail ascends to Lukla via villages like Cheplung and Ghat.

  • Max Altitude:2,846 m/9,337 ft
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Duration:5-6 hours
  • Distance:10.4 km/6.4 miles

Today, you will return to Kathmandu. A morning flight will take you back to Ramechhap Airport. At the airport, our driver and car will be waiting to receive you.

Our team will drop you at the hotel in Thamel. The remaining day is free. Rest and unpack. Explore Thamel and buy souvenirs.

Consider body massage or spa to recover from muscle pain. It is your last day in Kathmandu with us.

  • Max Altitude:1,400 m/4,600 ft
  • Meals:Breakfast only
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Duration:35 minutes flight

Cost Details

Includes

  • Two Lukla flights
  • Transportation between Kathmandu and airport
  • 1-night stays in Kathmandu in a 3-star hotel
  • Lodge accommodation during the trek
  • 3 meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek, accompanied by tea or coffee
  • Licensed, professional trekking guide who can speak your language (all of our guides can speak Nepali and English)
  • Assistant guide if the group has more than eight trekkers
  • One porter for two trekkers
  • Daily allowance, salary, permits, and insurance for our guides and porter
  • Sagarmatha National Park permit and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance permit
  • Company's service charge
  • All taxes incurred during the trek

Excludes

  • Lunch and dinners in Kathmandu
  • International flights to and from Kathmandu
  • Nepal travel visa fee
  • Travel insurance (must cover helicopter evacuation and medical bills)
  • Guide and porter tips (mandatory)
  • Shopping
  • Bar bills and extra food
  • Extra personal expenses during the trek, like hot showers, charging, WiFi, etc
  • Any expense not mentioned in our Cost Includes section

Everest Base Camp Trek - 14 Days Route Map

EBC Trek Route Map

Dates and Availability

Select your preferred date
Departure Date
03 Aug - 16 Aug
Days
14
Status
Guaranteed
Price
US$1600US$1650
Departure Date
31 Aug - 13 Sep
Days
14
Status
Guaranteed
Price
US$1600US$1650
  • Our Everest Base Camp trek itinerary is flexible. You can customize it as per your interests and budget.
  • 100% fixed departure unless unseen events like natural disasters, bad weather, or political issues disrupt the trip.
  • Private Everest Base Camp trek service available.
  • All ages of travelers can trek with us.
  • By booking the Everest Base Camp trek with us, you are agreeing to be bound by our Terms & Conditions.

Equipments

Everest Base Camp trek packing list

Follow the below packing list to pack for the Everest Base Camp trek:

Trekking gear:

  • Duffel bag
  • Daypack
  • Sleeping bag with liner
  • Trekking poles
  • Water bladder
  • Map

Clothes:

  • Breathable undergarments
  • Trekking t-shirt and pants
  • Thermal layers
  • Down jacket
  • Fleece
  • Windproof/waterproof jacket and pant

Accessories:

  • Trekking boots
  • Liner socks
  • Fuzzy socks
  • Gloves (touch screen compatible)
  • Scarves
  • Beanie
  • A casual pair of shoes to wear in lodges

Toiletries:

  • SPF
  • Wet tissues
  • Lip balm
  • Moisturizer
  • Deodorant
  • Handwash
  • Shampoo
  • Small mirror
  • Comb
  • Toothpaste and toothbrush
  • Toilet paper

Miscellaneous:

  • Reusable water bottle
  • Water purification tablets
  • UV sunglasses
  • Camera
  • Mobile
  • Power bank
  • Spare batteries
  • Universal charger
  • Snacks
  • Book
  • Journal and pen
  • Travelers game for time pass

Documents:

  • Trek permits
  • Passport
  • Passport-size photos
  • Emergency contact details
  • Travel insurance papers
  • Nepal travel visa
  • Cash
  • Debit/credit cards

First-aid:

  • Any medicine that you have to take daily
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Altitude sickness medicine
  • Normal medicine for cold and cough
  • Indigestion medicine
  • Electrolytes
  • Bandaid
  • Ointment

Essential Information

Everest Base Camp trek difficulty and altitude sickness

The Everest Base Camp trek difficulty is a challenge, but it is also achievable if the trekkers are well-prepared and physically fit. This trek tests your stamina, endurance, and willpower.

The trail is not technically advanced, but the physical, mental, environmental, and infrastructure demands are high. During the trek, you will walk 130 kilometers.

As mentioned above, the trail is rugged and not flat. Uphill climbing is challenging for all ages of trekkers. On top of that, increasing altitude builds more pressure on you. With the increase in elevation, every step will become tougher.

You will be not only physically challenged but also mentally. Then comes the roller coaster of emotions you will feel during the trek. You will have a lot of time to think about a lot of things during trekking.

You know the good, the bad. And this will definitely make you emotional. There will be moments when you will feel like giving up and returning. These are the moments when you have to push your limits and keep moving forward.

Despite the setbacks and challenges you will experience during Everest Base Camp trekking, at the end of the day, this trek will shape you for good!

Altitude sickness during the Everest Base Camp trek

Altitude sickness is something that trekkers suffer during the Everest Base Camp trek if they do not acclimatize. It can happen to anyone no matter how fit they are or what's their age.

The only way to avoid altitude sickness is by getting used to high elevation. You can do a few things such as ascend slowly, maintain your pace, drink plenty of water, get ample rest, etc, during trekking to acclimatize.

What if you suffer from altitude sickness?

If you suffer from altitude sickness, then our guide will provide first aid. Our guides are trained to provide first aid during trekking, so you can trust his judgment.

If your symptoms do not go away, you will descend to a few hundred meters. If descending also does not help you, you will be evacuated in a helicopter to a hospital in Kathmandu.

Symptoms of altitude sickness: Vomiting, feeling uneasy, dizziness, insomnia, headache, difficulty breathing, loss of appetite, etc.

How to prepare for the Everest Base Camp trek?

  • High altitude: The only way to deal with high altitude during the Everest Base Camp trek is by acclimatizing properly. That's why we have included two acclimatization days in our itinerary and also ascend slowly. You can also do day hikes or other shorter treks to experience high altitude before starting the Everest Base Camp trek.
  • Day walking hours: 5 to 6 hours of daily walking is difficult. If you are not used to walking this long, you have to make the habit before the trek starts. Go on regular walks for a few weeks or months before starting the EBC trek.
  • Stamina and endurance: Physically active individuals only have decent stamina and endurance for this trek. Strong stamina is a must for the EBC trek. You cannot walk even two hours on mountainous terrain without good stamina and endurance. So, focus on activities like swimming, cycling, running, hiking, jogging, etc.
  • Leg and core strength and stability: Long walks on rugged terrain require strong legs and core strength. If possible, we highly recommend training your calves, hamstrings, and quadriceps along with your back and shoulders.
  • Mental resilience: Trekking to Everest Base Camp is an extreme activity. You will face different environmental and infrastructural challenges that demand determination, patience, and a positive mindset.

The Lukla flights

Airport update:

Lukla is the gateway of the Everest region, and it can be reached in 35 to 30 minutes of short domestic flight from Kathmandu or Ramechhap airports.

Due to heavy air congestion at Kathmandu Airport in the spring and autumn seasons, the Lukla flights are operated from Ramechhap Airport.

It ensures on-time flights and fewer delays. The Ramechhap Airport is located around 128 km from Kathmandu and can be reached in a 4-hour drive.

You will leave your hotel in Thamel at around 2:00 AM to reach the Ramechhap Airport on time for the morning flight. In summer/monsoon and winter seasons, the Lukla flights are operated from Kathmandu Airport.

Weather update:

For a safe Lukla flight, good weather is necessary. If the weather is not stable, it leads to delays in the flight. Therefore, we see many tourists frequently waiting for the flights.

The weather in the Himalayas is unpredictable. So, trekkers must be well-prepared for flight delays. Have 1-2 contingency days expenses planned.

Likewise, we also recommend budgeting two helicopter flight expenses just in case.

How much does the Everest Base Camp trek cost? What are the additional expenses apart from the package cost?

The Everest Base Camp trek costs USD 1,550 per person. You can see our Everest Base Camp trek group discounts on the top right side of the page.

Apart from the package cost, travelers have to prepare the below additional expenses for the Everest Base Camp trek:

  • International flights to/from Kathmandu
  • Travel insurance
  • Nepal travel visa fee
  • Tips for guide and porter
  • Shopping
  • Accommodation and food in Kathmandu
  • Bar bills
  • Personal expenses like charging, WiFi, hot shower, etc, during the trek

The best time to do the Everest Base Camp trek in Nepal

The Everest Base Camp trek's best times are spring (March, April, May) and autumn (late September, October, November). These months have a comfortable trekking environment, beautiful scenery, great visibility, and stable weather.

On the other hand, summer/monsoon (June, July, August) and winter (December, January, February) are considered offseasons for Everest Base Camp trekking. Weather and climate are not preferable in these two seasons.

The Lukla flights are often delayed and canceled. Likewise, the mountain views are also not clear all the time. The trails between Lukla and Tengboche are highly affected due to heavy rainfall.

Contrary to the weather annoyances, summer/monsoon and winter have no crowd in the Everest region. The trails are peaceful, and the accommodation and meal prices are on the lower side.

You have to plan your trek at just the right time, keep 2-3 contingency days planned, and trek with a reliable trekking company like us. The Everest region is unbelievably pretty in monsoon and winter as well.

Accommodation and meals during the Everest Base Camp trek

We book a standard lodge along the Everest Base Camp trek route in this package. The rooms will be twin-shared. For single rooms, you have to pay more money.

There can be private washrooms in the rooms at lower elevations, but as the elevation increases, private washrooms become rare in the standard lodges.

Be prepared to use common washrooms. Western-style toilets are available in many places. The rooms are small but clean and cozy. It is now heated, so a sleeping bag is essential.

The climate gets quite cold at night throughout the year, so trekkers are advised to bring a sleeping bag during the EBC trek. They can rent a sleeping bag in Kathmandu. Lodges provide blankets, but it's not enough to get you through the night.

Similarly, you will get three meals a day in this Everest Base Camp trek package. Apart from breakfast, lunch, and dinner, trekkers can purchase additional snacks and drinks by themselves.

The meal options are great on the EBC trek. The food options are especially extensive in Lukla, Phakding, Namche Bazaar, and Tengboche.

You can literally get firewood pizza, bakery items, freshly brewed delicious coffee, biriyani, etc, in these places. We have even heard of someone selling sushi in Namche Bazaar.

Well, our staple meals during the trek are dal bhat, thukpa, momo, chowmein, thenduk, stew, fried rice, pasta, porridge, soups, sandwich, oats, eggs, Tibetan bread, paratha, etc.

Clean drinking water is also available throughout the trail. Do carry water purification tablets, just in case.

Charging, WiFi, and hot shower service during the Everest Base Camp trek

Charging and hot showers are available throughout the Everest Base Camp trail. However, you will be expected to pay USD 1 to USD 5. Hot showers cost a lot.

Likewise, WiFi is another paid service. Though WiFi is available in many places, the network will not be as reliable everywhere. Once you are above Namche Bazaar, WiFi is of no use.

Similarly, the mobile network is unstable throughout the EBC route. You can purchase a tourist sim with ample data in Kathmandu. Buy NCELL sim. It has a better connection than other network providers in the Everest region.

Travel insurance for the Everest Base Camp trek

Travel insurance is a must for the Everest Base Camp trek. At the moment, you have to buy travel insurance covering helicopter evacuation to do an EBC trek with any local trekking company.

Trekkers are advised to purchase travel insurance in their country. Make sure it covers trekking to Everest Base Camp. Most travel insurance does not cover trekking in Nepal.

Everest Base Camp trek permits

The Everest Base Camp trek requires two permits. Our package already includes both permits and their fees:

  • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance permit: Nrs 2000 per person
  • Sagarmatha National Park Entry permit: Nrs 3000 per person

Nepal tourist visa

A Nepal tourist visa is not included in our Everest Base Camp trek package. So, trekkers have to obtain it themselves. Your passport with at least six months of validity, passport-sized photos, and a visa fee are required for the Nepali tourist visa.

Indian travelers can enter Nepal with only their Voter ID card and one other ID card. Travelers from most countries can get a visa on arrival at Kathmandu Airport.

You can check more details about the Nepal tourist visa on this page.

Last-minute Everest Base Camp trek booking

Last-minute Everest Base Camp trek booking requires full payment, and it is non-refundable. To make a last-minute booking for an EBC trek, contact us. We will check Lukla's flights and other logistics and share what is possible.

    Everest Base Camp Trek - 14 Days FAQs

    Trekking to Everest Base Camp is moderately challenging. It is considered a beginner-friendly trek, but for a first-time trekker with no decent fitness, the journey can get quite difficult. Therefore, preparation is important.

    You can complete the Everest Base Camp trek in 14 to 16 days. If you are on a short vacation, combine a helicopter return from Gorak Shep to Kathmandu. It will save you three days.

    The Everest Base Camp trek cost depends on the services you will get in the package. A standard EBC trek costs USD 950 to USD 1,250. The price is higher for a luxury lodge EBC trek or if your package includes a helicopter flight.

    Trekkers do not have to worry about getting harmed by locals during the Everest Base Camp trek. However, this trek includes risks of altitude sickness or getting hurt if your ankle twists or you slip while hiking.

    A normal person can go to Everest Base Camp but he/she has to be well-prepared physically and mentally.

    Everest Base Camp is located 5,346 meters above sea level, and oxygen at this altitude is definitely lower than the sea level. You will feel heavy at this elevation, but breathing is not that challenging.

    Hiking to Everest Base Camp costs money. You will need money for the Lukla flights, to buy trek permits, accommodations, meals, etc. Likewise, if you hire a guide and porter, you have to pay their daily charge and tip. So, trekking to Everest Base Camp is not free.

    Foreigners are allowed to trek to Everest Base Camp alone. So, legally, you can hike to Everest Base Camp alone. But is it recommended? No. Trekking alone makes the journey more physically and mentally challenging.

    Some of the hardest parts of the Everest Base Camp trek route are the trails from Phakding to Namche Bazaar, Tengboche to Dingboche, and Lobuche to Everest Base Camp.

    These parts of the trails involve steep hiking. Likewise, you will also face major altitude effects while hiking to these villages.

    No, there is no age limit for the Everest Base Camp trek. You can make your dream of trekking to the lap of the tallest mountain on Earth at any age.

    Yes, the Everest Base Camp trek is still worth it. It is still one of the finest treks in the world. The trekking route has seen many developments over the years, so the journey is not as expensive as in the early days.

    During the Everest Base Camp trekking, you will eat meals in the lodges. The food options along the Everest Base Camp trail are excellent. From typical Nepali meals to Western dishes, the options are extensive.

    In villages like Lukla and Namche Bazaar, you will also have access to fresh coffee, cakes, pastries, pizza, burgers, etc.

    Usually, the price of a helicopter ride to Everest Base Camp depends on where you are taking the flight from.

    For instance, from Lukla to Everest Base Camp helicopter flight costs USD 450 to USD 550 per person.

    Likewise, a helicopter flight from Kathmandu to Everest Base Camp can cost USD 1,450 to USD 1,850 per person.

    You have to be able to walk 6 hours a day to do the Everest Base Camp trek. Not only that, but you also have to be mentally strong to push yourself on rugged, high-altitude terrain.

    Everest Base Camp trek without training is possible but only for those who are fit and have previous trekking experience. First-time trekkers will be gambling on the success of the EBC trek without physical and mental preparation.

    Till now, all of our trekkers have reached the Everest Base Camp. If you are well-prepared and follow our instructions, you can complete the Everest Base Camp trek successfully.

    Trekkers are not allowed to sleep at Everest Base Camp. It is a reserved place for mountaineers and their climbing parties.

    Foreigners need a passport to enter Nepal, obtain a Nepal tourist visa, and EBC trek permits. Your passport must have six months of validity from the day you enter Nepal.

    Indian citizens can do the Everest Base Camp trek without a passport, but they need their voter ID card and one other form of ID (Adhar Card, driver's license, etc).

    From Kathmandu, you can reach Everest Base Camp in seven days of hiking. Travelers on a short holiday in Nepal can opt for an EBC helicopter tour or combine helicopter flights in their itinerary to lower the traveling time.

    Yes, all trekkers have to obtain the required permits to go to Everest Base Camp. Trekking without the necessary permits is illegal.

    The Everest Base Camp trek distance is 130 kilometers. You walk 65 km on each side.

    The best months to do the Everest Base Camp trek are March, April, May, late September, October, and November.

    Trekkers usually lose 3 to 5 kg by doing Everest Base Camp trek. It is because of long walking hours and simple food consumption.

    Yes, there are toilets on the Everest Base Camp route. Lodges have clean and comfortable toilets for the trekkers. You can find both squat toilets and Western-style toilets.

    You can expect to spend USD 15 to USD 25 each during the trek for three meals and beverages. Our Everest Base Camp trek package includes three meals a day, so you do not have to pay extra. However, you can carry some money to buy more food and drinks.

    You have to dress in layers for the Everest Base Camp trek. Comfortable and breathable clothes should be your priority. You will need a base layer, thermal layer, and windproof/waterproof layer.

    If the Lukla flights are canceled, you have to wait for the next flight. Another option is you can take a helicopter flight by paying extra money.

    Yes, you can trek to Everest Base Camp without flying to Lukla. You can drive from Kathmandu to Jiri or Phaplu and trek from here to Lukla.

    It extends your Everest Base Camp trek itinerary by 3 to 5 days. On a good note, you will get to explore the lower part of the Everest region and spend more time with the locals.

    Our Everest Base Camp trek package includes the following services:

    • EBC trek permits
    • 1-night accommodation in Kathmandu
    • Three meals a day during the trek
    • Standard lodge accommodation during the trek
    • Guide and porter salary
    • 2 Lukla flights
    • Airport pick up and drop off
    • Company's service charge

    Yes, you can rent trekking gear for the Everest Base Camp trek in Kathmandu. We have a good relationship with many good trekking gear rental providers. Let us know if you want to rent any gear. We will get you the best deal.

    Yes, travel insurance covering emergency helicopter evacuation and medical bills is necessary for the Everest Base Camp trek.

    Yes, you can do the Everest Base Camp trek in December. It is the best time to trek to Everest Base Camp to avoid the crowd. The climate is not that cold yet, so you will enjoy the journey a lot.

    NCELL, a Nepali mobile company, has the best network compared to others along the Everest Base Camp trail. However, the network is not that reliable.