Thousands of avid trekkers from all over the world are reaching out to Nepal to fulfill their dreams and to be on the top of the world. If you are also one of those who enjoy the challenges, then this trek is going to make your experience unforgettable! Get the views of the world’s highest peak – Mount Everest (8,848m). The sense of grandeur and victory you feel during this trek is what all the mountain enthusiasts crave for. So, here is your complete guide to trek safely for a successful Everest Base Camp trek in Nepal.
Overview
In the Everest Base Camp trek, you will lead from the Khumbu valley to experience the immense beauty of Sagarmatha National Park which has the breath-taking vistas of 4-6 highest mountain peaks like Mount Everest (8,8848m), Mount Makalu (8,470m), Mount Lhotse (8,516m), and Cho Oyu (8,201m). This classic trek got recognized after the first footsteps of Sir Edmund Hilary and Tenzing Norgay who created history after climbing the most challenging trails.
The entire journey from Kathmandu including the trek lasts between 14-16 days; with 12 days in the trail. In these 12 days, your 2-3 days are utilized for acclimatization purposes in the high-altitude and the rest of the 9-10 days are spent trekking.
If instead of Lukla, you decide to start your trek from Jiri by taking a bus from Kathmandu to Jiri, then this trekking route will add 5 more days to your overall journey.
How to Hike to Mount Everest Base Camp?
You can either opt for a package tour by consulting an agency, or you can take the risk of doing it yourself without the help of guides. We would suggest you be in the company of a guide or porter.
- If it is your first time and you are not confident about the route, you should be consulting an agency for assistance. This option is going to be easier, but expensive at the same time.
- If you wish to go alone, then at least hire a porter by going to any local agency in Kathmandu.
- The only thing you can organize is the bus or jeep tickets from Kathmandu to Lukla and back to Kathmandu because it is not required to book the teahouses since everybody stays in the same places.
- Independent trekking with a tight budget will cost you less than 600 USD.
- If you choose the option of flying to/from Lukla, then the cost would be around 730 USD.
- A well-planned tour including the flights will cost between 1000 USD – 2000 USD.
Everest Base Camp Trekking Route
The trekking route commences from Lukla, leading to Namche Bazaar, and then Pheriche or Dingboche. From here, the trek continues to Lobuche to GorakShep. The Everest Base Camp lies towards the east side and Kala Patthar can be seen on the west side.
The Kala Patthar variation is visible on the map with a short dotted line which leads from the north of GorakShep and provides you views of the Everest peak.
Everest Base Camp Trekking Altitude
In this graph, you can see the variations in the altitude. The regional stops are displayed in a horizontal axis depicting the progression of the hike, while the vertical axis denotes the changes in the altitude covering both ascent and descent.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival at Kathmandu
After arriving at Kathmandu, if you have an organized trip with a tour operator, then they will come and receive you to take you to the hotel in Kathmandu itself. If you are on your own, then you can hire a taxi from the airport. You can also stay at Thamel which at a distance of 15 minutes from Kathmandu airport.
Tip: Fix the taxi fare before sitting in the taxi to avoid higher fares.
Day 2: Fly to Lukla from Kathmandu
Keep in mind, that flights may get delayed to unforeseen weather conditions. So, take a morning flight so that you can trek to Phakding on time. The return flight tickets range between 250USD-300USD. If you have a guide, then you may be charged with the local rates i.e. 100 USD return. Enjoy the stunning views of the Himalayas from your flight to Lukla. After landing, start your trek to Phakding and pass the traditional Buddhist boulders.
Day 3: Trek to Namche Bazaar from Phakding
Trek to Phakding from mojo, and reach Namche Bazaar. On this day, you will be entering the Sagarmatha National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage site which requires some permissions and grants. Namche Bazaar is a small Sherpa market where you can use the ATM’s, buy the camping gear, etc.
Day 4: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar
Namche Bazaar is at 3500m and is an important step, where you can explore the surroundings and the villages. Acclimatize to the high altitude conditions at the Namche Bazaar and you can also go for short treks to look at the picturesque mountains. Visit the headquarters of Sagarmatha National Park to have a deeper look at the Sherpa culture and their traditional lifestyle. You have the option of booking a hike to Khumjung and to the airstrip at Syangboche.
Day 5: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche
After having your breakfast, start your trek to Tengboche, which is also home to the largest monastery in the region. Some variations will take you through the ancient Tibet-Nepal route over Nanpa La pass to Thami.
Day 6: Trek to Periche from Tengboche
Periche is known for its Himalayan Rescue Association. The route offers amazing views of Ama Dablam and takes you through Phangboche.
Day 7: Acclimatization Day; Trek from Pheriche to Dingboche
Tshola Tsho Lake is the most popular destination for trekkers in the region. The journey will take you via Imja valley, followed by a steep climb to Dingboche.
Day 8: Trek to Lobuche
The steep climb to Lobuche is exciting and thrilling. The trail offers amazing views of Pumori, Khumbutse, and Lingtren peaks. Follow the mesmerizing stream to reach the beautiful town of Lobuche. You can stay at the lodge for the night.
Day 9: Hike from Lobuche to Gorakshep to EBC and back to Gorakshep
Hike to Gorakshep from Lobuche – the highest inhabited village and the trail are relatively easy. Rest for a while and embark on the much awaited journey to the base of the world’s highest peak, Everest. You’ll slowly approach the much famed Khumbu Icefall after passing through a difficult trail with moraines and rocky dunes. Click your photos and also interact with climbers who are preparing to make their way to the top. After spending some, it’s time to say goodbye to EBC and return to GorakShep.
Day 10: Gorakshep to Kala Pathar to Dingboche
On this day, you will reach Kala Patthar which is the most highlighted and the highest point of this trek at 5,500m. The blissful views of Nuptse, Everest, and Lhotse will add more beauty to your challenging journey.
Day 11: Hike to Namche Bazaar from Dingboche
Descend back via Tengboche to Namche Bazaar. Enjoy the forest journey through rhododendron jungles and wildlife.
Day 12: Namche Bazaar to Lukla
Go back to Lukla and you can finally celebrate your victorious journey with the rest of your trekking mates.
Day 13: Fly back from Lukla to Kathmandu
Catch your return flight to Kathmandu from Lukla, to reach the international flight much before time.
What is the best time/season to go for EBC Trek?
There are two seasons for trekking to EBC- pre-monsoon, and post-monsoon.
- Pre-monsoon is from Feb-May. During this time, the weather is mostly dry and stable. March is suitable to visit Nepal as the landscapes are in spectacular conditions, although the trek might be hard and cold. From the month of April, the trek gets busier.
- Post-monsoon is from September to November. The trek is colder in these months, but it is a great time to cover Gokyo lakes.
- In the months of Dec-Feb, which is the winter season, the trek gets tougher and the temperature goes down up to -30 degrees Celsius. The passes can be closed due to heavy snowfall, and the altitude sickness increases.
Porters and guides (if any)
It is optional to tip your guides and porters if you hired an English speaking guide with a porter to carry the trekking equipment to help you in completing your trek. It is best to keep the company of a local person who has a good knowledge of the trekking route. 1 porter can carry the luggage of two trekkers for 20-30 USD/day. Keep in mind that porters and guides do expect a good tip from the trekkers.
How to Prevent Altitude Sickness?
Acclimatization days are important to get used to the altitude and avoid sickness. There are some other steps with which you can prevent AMS, that is, with hydration, climbing slowly during your trek, bring your dose of Diamox medicine after consulting the doctor.
Essentials for EBC Trekking
- Down Jacket
- Trekking shoes and trousers
- Sleeping bag (if you are going without a tour operator)
- Warm cap
- Rain jacket and windcheater
- Backpack
- Fleece Jacket
- Thermals
- Down Vests
- Balaclava
- Sunhat
- Camping shoes
- Hiking shorts
- Woolen socks and gloves
- Underwear
- T-shirts
- Personal medical kit
- Headlamp
- Large plastic bags
- Flashlights
- Documents and Identity proofs