How to trek to Everest Base Camp

Bradley Mayhew

Jun 20, 2023 • 10 min read

travel her way everest base camp

From permits to teahouses, here's everything you need to know about trekking to Everest Base Camp © Mint Images / Getty Images

Top of many people's travel bucket lists, the trek to Everest Base Camp is often the first thing people think about when they start dreaming of a trip to Nepal . 

The walk takes trekkers past Sherpa villages and Tibetan-style monasteries, right up into the heart of the high Himalaya, into a breathtaking world (literally) of iconic glaciers, lakes and the tallest peaks on earth. It's probably the world's most famous trek.

But what is it actually like to trek to Base Camp? Is it something within your capabilities or budget? What should you bring? And, most importantly, can you get a proper coffee en route? 

I just returned from trekking to Everest Base Camp for Lonely Planet's Nepal guide . Here’s what I think you need to know.

A couple with trekking poles and backpacks follow a trail through the mountains

What's so great about the Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek anyway?

Firstly, the mountain scenery surrounding the world's highest peak is truly spectacular. The sublime views of Ama Dablam, Pumori, Nuptse and Thamserku peaks are unbeatable and constantly change as you progress along the walk. The Sherpa villages and monasteries are fascinating places to visit and the lodges (called teahouses) are the best in the world. 

The knowledge that you are walking in the expedition footsteps of Hillary, Tenzing, Messner and others is a thrill. Anyone who has read Into Thin Air will be moved by the memorial stupas of Rob Hall, Scott Fischer and others who have lost their lives on the mountain. And then there's the fact that you will have reached the base of the world's highest peak; whether you call it Chomolongma (Tibetan), Sagarmatha (Nepali) or Everest, it’s a rush all the same.

And what’s not so great about the Everest Base Camp trek?

Well, if you force us to play devil's advocate… EBC is one of the busiest trails in Nepal. In the high season months of October and November you'll be walking with thousands of other trekkers, competing with them to get a bed, a lunch order or an airplane seat. There will be lines at checkpoints and even at moments on the trail itself. In bad weather you might be stranded at Lukla airport with hundreds of other trekkers, all trying to get on the first flight out. It's not quite the Zen-like wilderness experience you may have been imagining.

Bear in mind also that even after a solid week of walking, your view of Everest will be partial at best (for infinitely more dramatic Everest views visit the northern Everest Base Camp in Tibet ). If you trek outside of May's expedition weather window you won’t actually find much to see at Base Camp beyond a boulder hastily spray-painted with "Everest Base Camp".

If this has put you off, don’t worry; there are dozens of other fantastic treks in Nepal .

Crowds gather outside traditional teahouses (lodgings) on the trail to Everest Base Camp with colorful flags fluttering in the breeze

How long does it take to trek to Everest Base Camp?

The walk from the airport at Lukla to Everest Base Camp and back takes a minimum of 15 days. Several of the days are surprisingly short, but this is because you have to figure in time to acclimatize to the high altitudes.

If you can, it's definitely worth adding on a couple of extra days to this basic itinerary. Some of the most dramatic (and least visited) views are from detours off the main trail. I always add two days to visit Thame, two days to visit Chhukung and, if possible, three or four days to visit the lakes of the Gokyo Valley – probably the most beautiful scenery in the Everest region.

Be sure to also budget an extra day or two as a transport buffer. Weather-related flight delays in and out of Lukla are not uncommon (I had to wait six days for a flight to Lukla on my recent trip) so you need some buffer time if heading back for an international flight home.

How challenging is the trek to EBC?

In terms of physical effort, the EBC trek itself is not especially tough. There are only a couple of steep climbs, lasting about an hour each, and most days involve less than four hours of walking.

The thing that makes the EBC trek tough is the altitude. Base Camp is at 5600m (18,373ft) and you will need to spend one or two nights above 5000m (16,404ft). Above 4000m (13,123ft) you are going to feel increasingly lethargic and out of breath as the amount of oxygen in the air decreases. Combine this with the cold, the discomfort of being at altitude and the compounded tiredness from walking for two weeks straight, and you can see why the whole trek experience is definitely a physical challenge.

While you don't need to be an athlete to walk to EBC it is still a good idea to start a fitness regime in the weeks leading up to your trek. You'll enjoy the walk so much more if you are in decent shape.

When is the best time to trek to Everest Base Camp?

October and November bring the best weather and the clearest skies but these are also the most popular months. The second most popular season is April to early May, when spring blooms and expedition traffic bring extra interest to the trail. To avoid the crowds but still enjoy clear views, pack an extra thermal layer and come in December or March.

A female trekker stands on a high point looking down towards a mountain settlement

What can I do to avoid altitude sickness?

The majority of people who fail to reach Base Camp do so because they failed to acclimatize properly to the altitude. It's essential not to gain altitude too quickly by following the recommended overnight stops and limiting your daily altitude gain to a maximum of 400m (1312ft) when above 3000m (9843ft).

Be sure to add in acclimatization days at both Namche Bazaar and Dingboche, during which it's a good idea to hike to higher altitudes during the day, returning to sleep lower at night.

What are the teahouses like?

At lower altitudes the Everest lodges are the most comfortable in Nepal. Private rooms are the norm, many of which have private bathrooms. Showers are available at most places, though the hot water supply can be patchy. All have cozy dining rooms with tables arranged around a central dung-fueled stove. There are even a few luxury lodges along the trail.

In budget lodges, or when you get above Dingboche, things get simpler, with rooms offering little more than a collection of plywood walls, a solar light and a foam mattress. Toilets are a mixture of seats and squatters; sometimes outdoors, always freezing. A blanket is normally supplied but be sure to bring a four-season sleeping bag rated to well below 0°C (32°F).

What's the food like?

Menus in teahouses range from pasta and pizza to spring rolls, fried potatoes and soups, though the most popular meal is a daal bhaat , a set Nepali meal of rice, lentil soup and fried vegetables, normally served with a papad and pickle, and with a refill included. It's the most filling and environmentally sustainable meal you can order.

In villages such as Namche Bazaar and Dingboche you will also find bakery-cafes serving espresso and slices of delicious apple pie, plus shops selling everything from Snickers bars to bottles of beer. This is one trek where you might actually gain weight!

Can I get wi-fi or phone coverage?

Most lodges offer wi-fi, either free of charge or for a few dollars per day (at higher elevations). Above Namche Bazaar you will likely have to buy a scratch card, giving you unlimited data for twelve hours (AirCell) or a specific amount of data over a month (Everestlink). Depending on your network provider you'll likely get data and a phone signal at lower elevations, and possibly even at Everest Base Camp, but not at other high altitudes. So yes, in theory, you can Skype all your friends from Base Camp!

What should I bring?

Warm clothes are a must, and you should pack thermal underwear, a down jacket and fleece hat. Comfortable hiking boots and good, padded socks are also essential. Sun block, a sun hat with a brim and good sunglasses are important against the strong high-altitude light. 

Morale-boosting snacks like chocolate and salami are always helpful, as is a book and smartphone with mapping software like Maps.me. Bring water purification of some sort. If you forget something, don’t worry, you can buy almost anything you might want in Namche Bazaar these days (from ice axes to cans of Pringles), though at prices higher than in Kathmandu .

A person, carrying a large loaded basket on their back, heads up a mountain trail with huge snow-covered peaks in the distance

Do I need a porter and guide?

In terms of finding your way you don't need a guide if you are an experienced walker, as the route is clearly marked and well-trod. A guide can be useful for smoothing your way at teahouses, making sure you get your food on time and helping you pay your bill. It's important not to trek alone, so solo trekkers should find a companion or take a guide or porter.

A porter will carry a bag of around 15kg, freeing you up to pack a few extra chocolate bars and enjoy the walk with little more than a day pack. Not having the strain of carrying a full pack is worth its weight in gold for anyone over the age of 50. Trust me.

How much does the Everest Base Camp trek cost?

For a room in a lodge and three meals a day, figure on US$20–25 per person per day, a bit more if you want a room with a private bathroom and the occasional slice of apple pie. Add on another US$5 every time you want a shower. Figure on an additional US$20 per day for a porter, and US$25–30 for a guide, and budget 10–15% of that fee for an end-of-trip tip.

You'll pay a bit more to have a Kathmandu-based trekking company arrange your entire trek, and a lot more for the convenience and backup of an international trekking tour.

Do I need any permits?

You will need to buy an Everest region permit (US$20) at Lukla, as well as a Sagarmatha National Park entry ticket (US$30) at Monjo. Currently that's all you need.

How can I trek more sustainably?

With 60,000 trekkers and guides headed to the Everest region, it’s important to minimize your impact on the region. Firstly, don't buy bottled water on the trek, as the bottles are nonrecyclable and are a huge problem throughout the region. Bring a system of water purification, like a Lifestraw or Sawyer filter, a Steripen or chemical purification.

Secondly, carry all your trash out (especially batteries), and sign up for the Carry Me Back program, whereby you carry a 1kg bag of trash from Namche Bazaar to Lukla, for it to be recycled in Kathmandu.

Finally, be polite to the Sherpas and porters you meet en route, as well as your fellow trekkers. Walk clockwise around stupas and be respectful at monasteries and shrines.

How do I get to Lukla to start the trek?

Flights run multiple times daily between Kathmandu and Lukla, taking around 30 minutes. During high season however you may have to drive five hours from Kathmandu to Ramechhap airport to catch your Lukla flight there.

It's also possible to fly or drive to Phaplu and walk two days to Lukla from there, or walk from Shivalaya to Lukla in seven days as an excellent pre-trek warm-up.

This article was first published January 2013 and updated June 2023

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Trek to Everest Base Camp

Everything You Need to Know About Trekking to Everest Base Camp

travel her way everest base camp

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Everest Camp II

Trekking to Everest Base Camp in Nepal's Sagarmatha National Park is the adventure of a lifetime. Although actually climbing Mount Everest is out of reach for many of us, anyone with enough grit and good enough fitness can reach EBC and the Khumbu Icefall, the starting point for climbing Mount Everest. (You’ll need an $11,000 permit and some serious equipment to go any higher from there!)

The Himalayan scenery here is unrivaled on earth. Snowy sentinels will witness your struggle toward the top of the world , while stupas, prayer flags, and Sanskrit tablets will remind you of the spiritual significance of the area. Sadly, the numerous memorials to hikers who perished along the trail underscore the seriousness of your undertaking.

You’ll battle freezing cold, thin air, weather changes, and your own body as you ascend. Once at Everest Base Camp, you won’t even get to see the famous mountain itself unless you take a day to climb Kala Patthar (18,519 feet), an adjacent prominence that affords views of the “Holy Mother” when weather permits.

Read on for our complete guide to the Everest Base Camp trek, with information on what to pack, when to go, EBC tours, and more. Note that we’ll only cover getting to South Base Camp in Nepal, not North Base Camp in Tibet .

What to Expect

Trekking to Everest Base Camp involves hiking between lodges (or “teahouses”) found in villages along the trail. Some days may only consist of four hours or so of uphill trekking, depending on how much elevation is gained that day. Sometimes, you’ll have the option of pushing on to another village higher up—but no matter what, you will never gain more than 1,312 feet (500 meters) in a day.

Once above the tree line, the common rooms in your lodges will invariably be heated by yak dung-burning stoves. Weary hikers will hang around these stoves, warming themselves and socializing before retiring early to their unheated rooms. The shared toilets are sometimes located in snowy outhouses.

The village of Namche Bazaar (11,290 feet) is considered the last fully “civilized” stop on the trek to Everest Base Camp. Here, trekkers can enjoy treats from a German bakery while watching screened documentaries. You’ll find last-minute gear and souvenirs for sale along with the last ATM on the trail. You can even indulge at the “highest Irish pub in the world” on your way down after a successful trek!

When's the Best Time to Trek to Everest Base Camp?

The best time for trekking to Everest Base Camp is in either spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). If you want to see the camp in full form with climbers, support teams, and film crews, you’ll need to time your trip with spring climbing season, usually late April or early May. This is also the busiest time to be in Nepal .

For less traffic on the trails, consider making your trek to Everest Base Camp in September or October. Unfortunately, this means hiking in cooler weather with even less daylight than usual.

Avoid making the trek during monsoon season in summer. Humidity reduces beautiful views at lower elevations, and snowfall closes trails at higher elevation.

Adisorn Fineday Chutikunakorn / Getty Images

Should I Book a Tour or Go Independently?

There are three options for completing a trek to Everest Base Camp:

  • Book a group tour and have all arrangements made for you.
  • Make the trek to Everest Base Camp independently .
  • Arrive in Nepal, then hire a guide and/or porter yourself.

No matter which option you choose, try to spend an additional day at Namche Bazaar. The extra time at 11,290 feet reduces some of the effects of elevation later; you’ll enjoy a better overall trekking experience and suffer less. The extra day isn’t “wasted”—many day hikes around Namche Bazaar provide beautiful views while giving your body time to adjust. Your chances of successfully reaching Base Camp vastly improve if you spend more time at Namche Bazaar.

Everest Base Camp Tours

Although the most expensive option by far, having everything organized before you arrive provides peace of mind. You’ll be taken care of all along the way, with access to better safety measures such as supplemental oxygen. Bigger companies use yaks to take your gear ahead; you’ll find it waiting for you in your teahouse room at the end of each hiking day.

You can book an Everest Base Camp tour online from home, or if time permits, do so after arriving in Kathmandu . Booking on the ground through a Nepalese agency saves money and better helps the local economy. You’ll find trekking agencies on every corner in Thamel, but unfortunately, not all are reliable. Choose a reputable agency that’s a member of the Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal . You can see in the member directory how long an agency has been in operation, and hopefully, make a better informed decision.

Independent Trekking

First, independently trekking to Everest Base Camp doesn’t necessarily mean solo trekking. Trekking alone in the Himalayas is dangerous no matter your experience level. A simple slip or unexpected weather change could keep you from reaching the next teahouse before temperatures plummet at night.

Independent trekkers can save a lot of money by foregoing organized tours and simply teaming up with other trekkers they meet along the way. (Everyone you meet in the lodges is going in one of two directions: up or down!) The well-marked trail to Everest Base Camp is busy during peak trekking seasons, giving you the best chance of meeting new friends who match your speed and fitness level.

Going independently does carry some risk, of course. You’ll be responsible for your own well-being and making important decisions. On the other hand, you’ll be able to set your own pace and make adjustments based on how well your body acclimatizes. A majority of hiker deaths on the trail each year occur when people in group excursions are suffering from Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) but don’t speak up. They fear slowing everyone down, or don’t want to forfeit reaching Everest Base Camp.

If guiding yourself, pick up a good trail map in Kathmandu. Don’t rely solely on electronic devices for making survival decisions! You’ll also need to store your luggage at a trustworthy guesthouse or hotel in Kathmandu. Locking duffel bags and padlocks can be purchased in local shops; some owners will buy them back once you return from your trek.

Hiking Guides and Porters

Rest assured: Your pack is going to feel heavier at 15,000 feet than it does at home! Even as an independent trekker, hiring a local guide and/or porter are options. Hiring directly ensures money goes to the Sherpas instead of a Western tour agency that managed to rank well online. Expect to pay between $15 to $20 a day for a porter or $25 to $30 a day for a guide.

You’ll need to negotiate terms and contingencies before hitting the trail. Paying up to half of the porter’s fee up front is common, and you will also be expected to tip guides and porters after the trip. Finalize details and other expenses to avoid a potential disagreement. The agreed daily rate should include their meals, drinks, and accommodation so you aren’t asked for money later.

Guides will approach you on the street in Thamel, however, you should hire only a credible and licensed guide through either a trekking company or your accommodation. You may still be able to hire a porter later on the trail by speaking to the staff at your lodge.

How Much Does It Cost to Trek to Everest Base Camp?

The cost of trekking to Everest Base Camp depends entirely upon your needed level of comfort. One indelible rule holds on the trail: Prices rise as elevation rises. That 50-cent candy bar from Kathmandu is worth $7 at 17,000 feet!

Extremely basic accommodation in teahouses can be found for as low as $5 per night. You’ll be expected to have your meals where you stay. A hearty Nepalese meal of dal bhat can be enjoyed for $6 or less, but expect to pay much more for Western food. A can of Coke can cost up to $5; remember, it’s heavy and had to be carried up by a porter.

Other luxuries add to the cost of life on the trail. A (somewhat) warm shower can cost $5. Charging electronic devices and accessing the internet, if available, cost several dollars an hour, and the solar charging systems are often slow and provide only a weak charge. Depending on your food and drink indulgences, plan to spend $20 to $30 a day living on the trail. This excludes any fees you pay to porters and guides.

If not already covered, your greatest expense will be the short flight to and from Lukla. The 30-minute flight can cost around $180 each way.

Do You Need a Permit for Everest Base Camp?

You’ll need at least two permits for trekking to Everest Base Camp. Your tour organizer will probably provide these, but you’ll need to arrange them yourself if trekking independently.

  • Sagarmatha National Park Permit: Get this at the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu (approximately $25).
  • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit: You will get this permit from a checkpoint in Lukla; it isn’t available in Kathmandu (approximately $17).
  • Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit: You only need this permit from the Tourism Board if doing the longer trek to Everest Base Camp from Jiri instead of flying to Lukla (approximately $17).

The permit system changed in 2018. Disregard any information you read elsewhere about needing a TIMS card for the trek to Everest Base Camp.

Greg Rodgers

What to Pack

Kathmandu, particularly in Thamel, has more than enough outfitting shops for gearing up. Unfortunately, those same shops are stacked with counterfeit gear that probably won’t survive the hardships of the trek. Sifting through the piles of used gear in dark shops requires patience. Prices are inflated, so put your game face on and start haggling !

If you booked a guided tour, find out what your tour company plans to provide (e.g., hiking poles, down jackets, etc) before shopping. Consider bringing mission-critical items from home so that equipment failure doesn’t affect your experience. For instance, you’ll need quality sunglasses to prevent eye injury. Sunglasses for sale locally may have “UV Protection” stickers on them but don’t offer much actual protection.

  • Good hiking boots. You should invest in high-quality, waterproof hiking boots and break them in properly before you leave home; painful blisters can ruin an otherwise-excellent trek.
  • Lightweight sleeping bag. Rooms along the trek are unheated. Lodges provide weighty blankets for the freezing nights, but you'll appreciate having a layer between you and the unwashed bedding. Even a lightweight silk “sleep sheet” will do the trick.
  • Alternate footwear. After removing your muddy hiking boots, a pair of lightweight shoes or sandals comes in handy for wearing around lodges and shared bathrooms.
  • Water purification: As elevation increases, so does the cost of bottled water and need to reduce plastic waste. You’ll be drinking more than ever to counter dehydration in the dry air. Although there are many options, the two-bottle, chlorine dioxide system from Aquamira is a reliable solution.
  • Trail snacks: Candy bars and nuts provide a much-needed boost to energy and morale while on the trail or in the lodge.
  • USB power bank: Keeping batteries charged in the extreme cold is a challenge. If you plan to use a phone for photos or communication, you’ll want to bring along a rugged power bank.
  • Diamox tablets: Diamox (acetazolamide) is medication for countering the dangerous effects of AMS. Guides should have some on hand, but independent trekkers will want to buy Diamox to carry. Beware of fake tablets for sale in Kathmandu. Purchase only from legitimate pharmacies—not from shops—and discuss how to use them.

If you won’t be taking your poles and other gear home after the trek, consider giving it directly to the Sherpas you meet in Lukla.

John Elk III / Getty Images

How to Get There

Fly into Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) and plan to spend a few days resting and preparing for the trek. Unless you’ll be starting the trek in Jiri—which requires a seven-hour bus ride and an additional five to seven days of trekking—you’ll need to book a flight to Lukla.

Taking the small prop plane from Kathmandu to Lukla (LUA) is one of the scariest and most scenic aviation experiences many travelers will have. Although not the highest airport in the world , weather and visibility changes have caused enough crashes at Tenzig-Hillary Airport in Lukla to earn it the title of “most dangerous airport in the world.”

The trek to Everest Base Camp begins in Lukla and finishes at the infamous Khumbu Icefall!

How Dangerous Is Everest Base Camp?

Although frostbite and rock slides are hazards along the trail, the biggest danger—by far—comes from the high elevation. Once symptoms of AMS begin (severe headache and nausea), you need to descend as soon as possible. Ideally, you’ll ascend slowly enough to minimize altitude sickness in the first place.

The CDC recommends never gaining more than 500 meters in one day and taking a rest day for every 1,000 meters gained. Whenever possible, you should descend to sleep at a lower elevation than the highest point reached during the day. Track and do the elevation math as though your life depends on it.

The high elevation and thinner air introduces additional risks. For one, your body will increase its production of red blood cells, causing excessive urination; be sure to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Many trekkers will also experience the dry, hacking "Khumbu cough" from panting heavily in the thin air and breathing in the dust of the region. You can cover your face with a bandanna or balaclava for some protection. The cough usually goes away after time. Ultraviolet rays, too, are more damaging in the thinner air, so protect your skin, lips, and eyes by applying high SPF sunscreen and lip balm, wearing long sleeves, and donning sunglasses.

Finally, yak trains always get the right of way! Never share a bridge crossing with one, and always pass them on the “inside” of the trail. Startled yaks are unpredictable and sometimes knock trekkers off the trail.

Additional Tips

  • Take your stocking up on snacks seriously. Pack candy bars, even if you wouldn’t ordinarily indulge at home. You’ll experience strong cravings at higher elevation. Hikers are willing to spend $7 or more for Snickers bars near Everest Base Camp!
  • The weather in the Himalayas changes quickly and unpredictably. Flights to and from Lukla frequently become delayed by a day or two, maybe longer if a winter storm system sets in. Add some buffer days to your Kathmandu itinerary just in case this happens.
  • Before retiring to bed, ask your teahouse staff to pour boiling water into your bottles and use them as bed warmers. Fair warning: They’ll probably be frozen next to you in the morning!
  • Sleep with your phone and any batteries in the bed with you. Your body heat will protect battery life a little.
  • Weight limitations imposed by airlines that fly to Lukla are strictly enforced. If an airline says 33 pounds (15 kilograms), that includes all baggage , stowed or carried. Don’t risk having to forfeit gear in Kathmandu Airport because you’re a pound or two over the allowance. You can stuff some items into your pockets, within reason.

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Mount Everest Base Camp Trek: Nepal EBC Trekking Guide

The Mount Everest Base Camp Trek in Nepal is one of the world’s best bucket list hikes. In less than 2 weeks, you can trek to the foot of Mt Everest and other snowy peaks in the Himalayan mountains.

The good news is that it’s not a super difficult hike, and you don’t need a big budget to do it. The EBC trek is worth it for the fun and accomplishment alone, but you also get views of the Himalayas that are out of this world.

This travel guide will explain how you can do the Mt Everest Base Camp hike independently (with or without a tour guide), along with a recommended packing list and everything else you need to know before you go!

Best Everest Base Camp Tours

First of all, if you’d rather skip the hassle of planning your own EBC Trek, Klook has Everest Base Camp Tours starting as low as $900 USD for a full 12-day trek.

You may be able to find something cheaper than this once you land in Kathmandu, but booking online with a vetted tour company has some big advantages, and the reviews on their website are very positive.

We’ve used Klook for lots of tours and activities around the world, and they’re great! Highly recommended.

Book Now: Everest Base Camp Tours

Mount Everest and other snowy peaks on the EBC Trek in Nepal

When To Do The EBC Trek

The Mt Everest region has 4 different trekking seasons:

  • March – May: High season. Best weather, with stable temperatures and bright sunny days, but the trails can get crowded. During these months you may share the EBC trail with pro climbers on the way to go summit Everest.
  • June – August: Monsoon season. There’s a lot more rain during these months, and the trails are mostly empty.
  • September – October: Clear days and busy trails. This is one of the most popular trekking seasons.
  • November – February: Coldest season, but the weather is stable and dry. The trails are mostly clear.

I trekked in early February, and even though it was nice having the trail mostly to myself, the cold in the evenings and mornings was straight up misery.

My home state of Missouri can get very cold in the winter, but the cold has just never been my thing. If I could go back and change it, I would definitely do my Everest Base Camp hike later in the season.

Prayer wheels near Lukla on the EBC Trek in Nepal

Everest Base Camp Weather

Temperatures on the Mt Everest Base Camp Trek can range from 5 °C (40 °F) to 20 °C (70 °F) depending on month, and as low as -30 °C (-22 °F) at night during the winter months.

If you trek during the warmer months (Mar-May and Sep-Oct), the cold is not a big problem and shouldn’t be hard to cope with. Winter is a different story. Your snot will freeze in your nose at Gorak Shep.

Sunshine is key for winter trekking in Nepal, and thankfully you should have lots of sun in most months outside of the monsoon season. On my February hike, I often found myself shedding all my layers while trekking because I was heating up in the sun.

If you do your Everest Base Camp hike during the winter, the biggest issue is staying warm in the evenings and at night. For this, you’ll definitely want a top quality down jacket and sleeping bag.

Ama Dablam mountain and stupa on the Everest Base Camp Trek in Nepal

All About Everest Base Camp Trekking

My everest base camp itinerary.

  • Day 1: Kathmandu to Lukla to Benkar .
  • Day 2: Benkar to Namche Bazaar .
  • Day 3: Namche Acclimatization Day .
  • Day 4: Namche to Deboche .
  • Day 5: Deboche to Pangboche .
  • Day 6: Pangboche to Dingboche .
  • Day 7: Dingboche Acclimatization Day .
  • Day 8: Dingboche to Thukla .
  • Day 9: Thukla to Gorak Shep .
  • Day 10: Everest Base Camp .
  • Day 11: Kala Patthar to Gorak Shep to Pheriche .
  • Day 12: Pheriche to Namche .
  • Day 13: Namche to Lukla .

Porter with a huge pack on the EBC trek in Nepal

If you ever need motivation to keep going on the Everest Base Camp hike, just look at how much the porters are carrying!

Hikers near Pumori Peak and Kala Patthar on the Everest Base Camp trek in Nepal

Mount Pumori as seen from the Kala Patthar viewpoint, just a short distance from Mt Everest Base Camp.

Ama Dablam and another mountain range on the EBC trek in Nepal

Ama Dablam, one of my favorite mountains on the Mt Everest Base Camp Trek.

EBC Trek Packing List / Gear

This isn’t a complete list of everything to bring on a Mt Everest Base Camp Trek, and you may have to change things up a little depending on what month you go, but these are just some of the basics.

You can find most of this gear in Kathmandu, but in my opinion you’ll get higher quality and a wider selection if you order online.

  • Beanie: I only wore this at night, but it definitely helped keep my ears warm.
  • Down Jacket: Bring the biggest, warmest DJ possible. This is your most important piece of gear. You can use it as an extra cover at night.
  • Fleece Sweater: This is the only jacket you’ll need to wear while trekking most days, especially if it’s sunny.
  • Shirts: Something comfy with quick dry material.
  • Trekking Pants: Something lightweight and breathable.
  • Thermal Underwear: May not be needed if you trek in the warmer months.
  • Gloves: I only wore these at night, but they definitely helped keep my hands warm.
  • Socks: Merino wool is best for staying warm and stopping moisture.
  • Headlight: Smart to have at least a small one, just in case.
  • Tumbler: 1 liter water bottle to refill daily on the trek.
  • Sunblock: It’s easy to sunburn at high altitudes. A small bottle is plenty.
  • Sunglasses: Good for snow. May not be necessary unless you plan to hike a mountain pass like Cho La.
  • Hat: I wore old faithful throughout the hike.
  • Watch: An altimeter watch would be fun to play with here.
  • Camera: Duh. You can’t do the Mt Everest Base Camp Trek without taking lots of pictures.
  • Power Bank: Bring a big power bank and you might only need to recharge it once on the whole trek.

Stupa and mountain near Dingboche on the Everest Base Camp Trek in Nepal

Everest Base Camp Trek Cost

For a 13 day trek, I paid about $21 USD per day for food, drinks, and room. Porter/guide was an extra $25 per day, although it’s not a requirement. Flights to Lukla were $330 return, but again not a requirement if you hike in.

You can read the sections below for more info on the daily trekking costs and what you get for your money. It’s not a very expensive trek, all things considered!

Keep in mind, these numbers are from 2020. They’ll go up a little over time. Exchange rates may also vary, so check the latest rates .

Stupa and mountains near Namche Bazaar on the EBC Trek in Nepal

The flight to Lukla from Kathmandu is $165 USD each way. You can shop for flights to Lukla at Skyscanner.

If your budget is tight or you have extra time, you can skip this flight by hiking from Jiri to Lukla rather than flying. It only adds a couple days to the itinerary.

Planes at the Lukla airport on the EBC Trek in Nepal

Guide / Porter / Solo

You can do the EBC trek with a guide, porter, OR independently (solo).

A guide will show you the way to Mt Everest Base Camp and help with lodging, navigation, advice, taking pictures for you, etc. A porter-guide will do these same things and also carry a 20 kg (45 lb) pack for you.

A porter or guide is NOT a requirement to do this hike, especially if you go in the warmer months when you may not need as much gear. In 2023, they were supposedly introducing a guide requirement for EBC, but so far that has not been enforced at all, thankfully.

With that said, there are some good advantages to hiring a guide, and it’s pretty cheap by Western standards. A porter is only $15 or $20 USD per day, and a porter-guide is $25 per day. A popular arrangement is to hire one porter for two hikers, splitting the cost and still making things easier for both of you.

In the end, this all depends on your budget and hiking preferences.

Hiker at the Tengboche monastery on the EBC Trek in Nepal

Hiking Fees

If you’re hiking EBC independently, you’ll need to be aware of two fees you have to pay near the start of the trek.

There’s a local government tax that they’ve now started collecting in Lukla. This one is currently 2,000 Rupees ($17 USD).

There’s also an Everest park fee/ticket you have to pay at the Sagarmatha National Park entrance just beyond the small village of Monjo, Nepal. This one is currently 3,500 Rupees ($30 USD).

No TIMS card is needed anymore for independent hikers. That fee has been retired for the Mount Everest Base Camp Trek.

Prayer flags with the Ama Dablam mountain on the EBC Trek in Nepal

Accommodation & Amenities

Throughout the Everest Base Camp hike, you’ll stay and sleep at small guesthouses along the way, called teahouses.

This is where you get your meals and drinks for the trek, along with the occasional amenities like showers, charging, or WiFi. The teahouses start out decent, but quickly get more shabby as you go further up the trail.

You have to pay for everything you use, of course, and the prices get quite high as you go, because everything has to be hauled up on the backs of the poor porters.

Mountains and pine trees near Lukla on the EBC Trek in Nepal

Guesthouses

The teahouses on the EBC trek are cold and dingy, with drop toilets and cracks in the walls. Don’t expect luxury.

Most rooms are free as long as you buy your meals there (the meals are how they make their money). If you stay at a lodge and don’t eat there, you’ll be expected to pay for the room.

In some cases, I was charged 500 Rupees for a room on top of my meal costs. I’m not sure why some teahouses do this and others don’t, but I never paid more than 500 Rupees for a room, and most were free with the meals.

Sleeping bag inside a teahouse on the EBC Trek in Nepal

Food & Drink

I’m happy to report that the food and drinks on the Everest Base Camp hike are top notch, especially after you’ve worked up an appetite trekking.

You have western food choices, or the standard local staples like veggie fried rice, steamed momos (dumplings), and mushroom soup. Everything was hot and fresh. Meal prices for these ranged from 250 to 750 Rupees depending on altitude. Not too bad.

For drinks I tried hot chocolate, lemon/apple/mint tea, and occasionally bottled water for my tumbler. These ranged from 100 to 400 Rupees. If you want to avoid plastic bottles, there’s usually boiled water available and this is safe to drink too.

Getting enough water on the trek is never a problem. Just fill up a 1 liter tumbler in the morning, and this will last you until evening, especially since you’re likely to pass more tea houses along the trail as you’re hiking throughout the day.

Mountains near Lukla on the EBC Trek in Nepal

Showers are only available at a few lodges, depending on the season and how high up you are, and they cost 600 to 1200 Rupees. In the winter, water higher up will be frozen most of the time.

I never had a shower on my February EBC trek, and that seems to be the norm (although I got one or two opportunities in Namche). Yes, it’s gross. I could smell myself by trek’s end, and it wasn’t pretty.

But aside from the fact that I hate to fork out money for something as basic as a shower, I also never really got close to other people for very long on the trek, so I didn’t feel too guilty about it.

Most days were cold enough that the thought of stripping down for a shower was not really appealing, either. Your best bet is baby wipes and deodorant.

Namche Bazaar houses and mountains on the EBC Trek in Nepal

WiFi / Cell Service

WiFi costs anywhere from $5 to $10 USD per day if you buy it from the teahouses.

Alternatively, you can buy a 10 GB/30 Day Everest Link WiFi card in Namche Bazaar and use this for the entire EBC trek. During my Mount Everest Base Camp Trek the WiFi was down across the whole region, so unfortunately I wasn’t able to use either of these options.

I bought an Ncell local SIM card in the Kathmandu airport and had 3G service for half the days of the Everest Base Camp hike. Coverage is still improving in the area, so if you need to stay connected I’d definitely bring a local SIM.

Snowy peak on the EBC Trek in Nepal

Electricity

All of the teahouses on the way to Mt Everest Base Camp sell outlet charging for electronics, and the prices range from $2 to $10 USD for a full charge, depending on how far up the trail you are.

The key is to bring a big power bank and then use this to charge all of your other electronics (phone, camera, etc). I did this and only paid once to recharge my power bank on the whole trek.

Nepali prayer flags on the EBC Trek in Nepal

How Much Cash To Bring

Everything you buy during the Everest Base Camp hike (meals, WiFi, charging, etc) will have to be paid for with cash. Credit cards won’t work. There are no ATMs outside of Lukla and Namche Bazaar (Days 1-4), and even the ATMs there are not reliable.

What this means is that you’ll have to withdraw enough cash (Nepalese Rupees) at an ATM in Kathmandu to cover your entire trek. The ATM fees will bite you, and I hate to carry large amounts of cash, but it’s not really avoidable here.

All up, I spent about $20 USD (2,400 Rupees) per day on the Mount Everest Base Camp Trek, and never spent more than $25 USD in a single day. With that said, I didn’t splurge on WiFi, showers, charging, or alcohol. The only things I bought were the bare necessities: room, food, and drinks.

If you hire a porter/guide, you don’t need to factor that into your daily cash carry. That’s paid before the trek starts. But do reserve a little cash for a decent tip.

Mountains and valley on the EBC Trek in Nepal

Mount Everest Base Camp Trek Difficulty

I’m not going to lie, this is a difficult trek. And if you do it in the winter like I did, it’s even harder. With that said, if you are in decent shape, determined, and obey the guidelines for altitude sickness prevention (more on that below), then you’ll have no problem reaching base camp.

There is a lot of elevation gain and loss on this hike. At times near Lukla, the constant ups and downs will make you feel like you’re hiking a roller coaster, but the trail is never too steep or dangerous. After Namche, it’s mostly a slow uphill plod.

This trek has been completed by old seasoned hikers in their 70s, and young kids in their pre-teens. It’s also been flunked by healthy 20-30 somethings who try to push through it quickly without enough acclimatization to altitude.

Patience and discipline are key for trekking to Everest Base Camp. Slow and steady wins the race here.

Prayer flags with white Nepal mountains in the distance at the EBC trek

Trekking Distance

The one way trekking distance from Lukla to Mt Everest Base Camp is about 65 kilometers (40 miles).

That means the total roundtrip distance of an EBC Trek is about 130 kilometers, even if you don’t do any of the detours.

Don’t let that scare you off. It’s a lot of hiking, but every step is worth it.

Stupa face and mountain near Dingboche on the EBC Trek in Nepal

Altitude Sickness

By far your biggest danger on the Mount Everest Base Camp Trek is altitude sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).

No one is immune to this, and it doesn’t matter how fit you are. If you gain altitude too fast, you can get sick and in some cases even die. Plenty of people have died from AMS on the EBC Trek.

The problem is that overzealous hikers push the envelope on this hike all the time, and a lot of them end up needing a very expensive helicopter evacuation to lower ground.

The best way to avoid altitude sickness is to go slow . At altitudes above 3,000 meters (10,000 feet), don’t increase your sleeping elevation by more than 300-500 meters (1,000-1,500 feet) per night.

Every 1,000 meters (3,000 feet) you should also spend a second night at the same elevation. If you get a bad headache, dizziness, or nausea, descend to a lower altitude until you feel better. As long as you follow these general guidelines, you shouldn’t have any issues.

You can take Diamox (acetazolamide) on the trek for extra AMS prevention. This medication can be found in Kathmandu or Namche. I bought mine in Namche and it seemed to help my headache and slight foggy feeling. I didn’t have any side effects aside from the usual tingling toes/fingers.

Porter walking on a steep mountain bridge on the EBC trek in Nepal

Everest Base Camp Altitude

The Mount Everest Base Camp altitude is 5,364 meters (17,598 feet). At this elevation, there is 50% of the oxygen at sea level.

However, most treks also go to Kala Patthar, a viewpoint even higher than base camp where you can get the best views of Mount Everest.

The elevation at Kala Patthar is 5,644 meters (18,519 feet). From there, you’ll be rewarded with an incredible panorama of Mount Everest and other icy peaks like Pumori, Lhotse, and Nuptse.

Happy travels!

Sunrise near Mt Everest as seen from Kala Patthar on the Everest Base Camp Trek in Nepal

If you’d rather skip the hassle of planning your own EBC Trek, Klook has Everest Base Camp Tours starting as low as $900 USD for a full 12-day trek.

You may be able to find something cheaper than this once you land in Kathmandu, but booking online with a vetted tour company has some big advantages, and the reviews on their website are very positive for this Mt Everest Base Camp tour.

More Nepal Travel Tips

Hopefully you were helped by this guide for the Everest Base Camp Trek. Let me know in the comments below if I can help answer any questions.

Don’t forget to check out my complete Nepal Travel Guide with tips, info, photos & more!

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Perfect Everest Base Camp Trek Itinerary

Home » Blog » Nepal » Perfect Everest Base Camp Trek Itinerary

Perfect Everest Base Camp Trekking Itinerary

The Everest Base Camp trek can be dangerous, even fatal, if you don’t plan it out correctly. Before we laced up our hiking boots and began our hike to Everest Base Camp, we did some planning. A lot of planning.

We read blogs, compared itineraries, and looked at maps. We downloaded the Lonely Planet’s Trekking in the Nepal Himalaya travel guide and memorized their suggested route. We scoured TripAdvisor forums and read long-winded explanations of the best villages to stay in along the way. And after all that research, we narrowed our findings down to a route that was perfect for us.

This 16-day itinerary will bring you to Everest Base Camp, across the infamous Cho La Pass, and to the beautiful Gokyo Lakes. It has buffer days built in, so you have plenty of time to acclimatize.

This itinerary will give you an idea of what each day looks like, its difficulty level, and the name of the teahouse we stayed at (and if we’d recommend it).

We trekked at a slow to average pace (some may say a “turtle pace”), and we carried our own packs (without a porter). Take a look at our EBC packing list . To learn more about what life is like on the trail and how to do it yourself, check out our Ultimate Guide to Trekking Everest Base Camp . 

Note: We did our trek from April 6th – 22nd, 2016.

Who is the Everest Base Camp Trek for?

We saw people of all ages and abilities making this trek. But be warned, it’s not easy. And even the fittest people can suffer from altitude sickness and fail to make it to base camp. We didn’t do much training for this trek at all, but we met several people who trained hard for an entire year before attempting EBC. 

Can children trek to Everest Base Camp?

We wouldn’t recommend it. Come to think of it, the youngest person we encountered was maybe 16 years old, and that was a rarity. If you are planning on trekking in Nepal with kids , there are many other, less intense hikes that would be more suitable for young children.

EVERYTHING you need to plan your EBC trek!

Everest Base Camp Guide | Two Wandering Soles

There are a few trekking routes around Everest National Park (Sagarmatha National Park). We trekked the Everest Base Camp & Gokyo Lakes Itinerary shown below. Click the links to jump to that day on the trek. 

Everest Base Camp & Gokyo Lakes Itinerary

Day 1: lukla to monjo, day 2: monjo to namche bazaar, day 3: namche bazaar acclimatization day, day 4: namche bazaar to tengboche, day 5: tengboche to dingboche, day 6: dingboche acclimatization day, day 7: dingboche to dugla, day 8: dugla to lobuche.

Day 9: Lobuche to Gorak Shep to Everest Base Camp, back to Gorak Shep

Day 10: Gorak Shep to Kala Pattar to Lobuche

Day 11: lobuche to dzongla, day 12: dzongla over cho la pass to gokyo, day 13: gokyo sacred lakes and rest day, day 14: climb gokyo ri then gokyo to dole, day 15: dole to namche bazaar, day 16: namche bazaar to lukla, last day: fly lukla to kathmandu.

*Note 1: If you are looking for the classic Everest Base Camp and back route, you would start heading back down from Day 10 from Kala Pattar – Pheriche – Namche Bazaar – Lukla. 

*Note 2: Staying in Dugla on Day 7 is commonly skipped but we decided to stay here because we both got sick. Read more about what happened to us on Day 7 .

If you have even more time, try looking into the Three Passes Trek. Check out the route in the Lonely Planet’s Trekking in the Nepal Himalaya travel guide .

Before starting your Self Guided Trek to Everest Base Camp

You’ll need to purchase travel insurance with high altitude coverage, which is not common on most policies. We saw far too many people get helicoptered off the trail because they got sick from the elevation. We purchased a policy from World Nomads , which high altitude coverage comes standard. We were at ease knowing that if anything happened, we were insured. 

travel her way everest base camp

Total trekking time: 5 hours 15 minutes + Rest time:  45-minute lunch in Phakding

Description: Once your flight lands grab breakfast and coffee in Lukla (we ate at Everest Coffee Cafe), and then began hiking. Trek through beautiful scenery, crossed suspension bridges, passed by yaks, and smelled the cherry blossoms and rhododendrons.

Note: If you are flying to Lukla, it’s not uncommon for your flight to be delayed or even cancelled. Be prepared to get a later start than you were expecting.

Difficulty Level: 4 – Today was easy, with mild uphill and downhill portions.

Teahouse: Monjo Guesthouse

Cost: 200 rupees

Warm dining room, simple rooms, good views

Recommended: Yes

Tip: Many people spend their first night in Phakding, but we skipped it for a few reasons. First, Phakding is full of large lodges with big trekking groups, whereas Monjo is a bit smaller. Also, Monjo is at a higher altitude, which will help you acclimatize better and make your transition to Namche easier.
Lastly, the second day of the trek is long and tiring. By staying in Monjo the first night, you’ll get ahead of the crowds and cut significant time since you are closer to Namche. If you have time, we would recommend pressing on until Monjo for your first night.

Namche Bazaar Perfect Everest Base Camp Trekking Itinerary

Total trekking time: 4 hours 30 minutes + Rest time:  30 minutes at the Namche check point

Description:  Start the day crossing suspension bridges and easy walk, but after the last suspension bridge it is 2 hours or more of uphill hiking. 30 minutes before Namche there is a check point you must sign in at. Ours took 30 minutes because the power got shut off and had to reboot everything. Make sure to drink lots of water, at least 3 liters.

Difficulty Level: 7 – Easy first few hours, but the hill to Namche is a killer.

Teahouse: Khumbu Lodge

Cost: 300 rupees

Rooms have soft beds and good views (ask for a room facing the valley). It’s in a central location of Namche and has a big restaurant with tasty food.

This well-known lodge is popular with big expedition groups, and some famous climbers have stayed here throughout the years. The owner seemed to be well known in the climbing community. U.S. President Jimmy Carter and his wife stayed here as well in 1985.

Tip: Try the fried potatoes with veggies and an egg. Good for breakfast or dinner!

Hiking Perfect Everest Base Camp Trekking Itinerary

Total trekking time: Depends on day hike. 2 – 3 hours. We hiked to the Sherpa Museum for a view of Everest, about 1 – 1.5 hour round trip. Then we hiked up the hill over Namche to the Sherpa Village Lodge, about 1 – 1.5 round trip.

Difficulty Level: 4 – Pretty relaxed, easy slope to the Sherpa Museum. The hike up to the Sherpa Village Lodge was a steep climb but not too bad.

Teahouse: Khumbu Lodge (same as Day 2)

Tip: Next to Khumbu Lodge is Himalayan Java Café, which is a great spot to relax on your “rest day” after a morning hike. Make sure to get the walnut chocolate brownie, I dare you to try to only eat one!

Tengboche Perfect Everest Base Camp Trekking Itinerary

Total trekking time: 5 hours and 10 minutes + Rest time:  15-minute snack break in Khyangjuma and 45 lunch break in Phunke Tenga

Description: It’s a steep climb out of Namche and then a level walk for about 1 hour with views of Everest and surrounding mountains with river valley below. Then downhill for an hour before the 2 hours and 15 minutes zig-zag uphill through the pine forest before Tengboche.

Difficulty Level: 6.5 – Early easy walk on flat trail, but the down and then up were challenging.

Teahouse: Tengboche Guesthouse

We had a small room and the bathroom cleanliness could be better, but the common area was warm and cozy.

Tip: Once you’re settled in your room, visit the Tengboche Monastery. It’s the oldest in the region and had blessed Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay before their summit on Everest.

Dingboche Perfect Everest Base Camp Trekking Itinerary

Total trekking time: 4 hours and 40 minutes + Rest time:   15-minute snack time

Description: After leaving Tengboche, there’s 30 minutes of downhill hiking within a woody forest. You’ll walk on a flat trail for what seem like hours, stepping over boulders along the way. Once you get above the tree line near Somane, the landscape make you feel like you stepped into the Lord of Rings film set.

Difficulty Level: 6 – Simple hike on a well walked trail, but by now the altitude can start to take an effect on your breathing. 

Teahouse: Snow Leopard Lodge

Cost: 100 rupees

The rooms are simple and quite large. The common room is comfy with a great restaurant. The best part the attached bakery where you can order a strong coffee, cheesecake and apple pie!

There’s also a small pharmacy where it’s your last chance to stock up on medications or cough drops before heading to higher altitudes.

Recommended: Yes, highly recommended!

Tip: There is no cell service in Dingboche and the WiFi options are terrible. Just enjoy being off the grid for a few days and eat some cheesecake.
Tip: Many people spend their night and the next day resting in Pheriche, however we found more benefits to staying in Dingboche. It’s at a higher altitude so your body can adjust better. This could allow you to travel to Lobuche on Day 7 if you would like (we didn’t because we wanted to take it slower due to us getting a little sick). Dingboche also has the amazing bakery that we could spend days relaxing and eating.

Dingboche pagoda Perfect Everest Base Camp Trekking Itinerary

Total trekking time: 2-4 hours depending on day hike 

Description: We were not feeling great with a tooth infection and a bad cold so we only hiked an hour up the hill overlooking Dingboche. There are some sweet views of Ama Dablam and other Himalayan giants with prayer flags at the viewpoint. If you wish, you can climb another hour or so to the top of the hill for even better views, but bring a wind breaker jacket.

Tip: Spend the rest of your acclimation day in the Snow Leopard Bakery. Order the cheese cake or the apple pie, you won’t be disappointed.

Difficulty Level: 6 – You get to hike without your packs, but the altitude really starts to hit you as you climb up the hill.

Teahouse: Moonlight Lodge

The family running the lodge is extremely kind and welcomes you into their cozy family circle around the central stove. However, the rooms were pretty small and cold and the food was nothing special.

Recommended: Yes, only if the Snow Leopard Lodge is full

Travel+Insurance+Skydiving

EBC Video Diaries

Watch Part 1 of our video diary from Day 1 through 6 of our trek. This will show you what life is like on the trail, plus we included some funny scenes for your entertainment. 

YouTube video

Dugla Perfect Everest Base Camp Trekking Itinerary

Total trekking time:  2 hours and 15 minutes

Description: It’s an easy gradual slope that leads into Dugla. There are epic views throughout the entire hike to the south. Take the rest of the day to rest and recover, there is not much to do in Dugla.

Note: Most trekkers continue on to Lobuche on this day. However, Katie had a bad cold and Ben had a tooth infection, so we both needed an easy day with lots of rest (and medication). This shows the importance of going at your own pace and not pushing your limits. After one night in Dugla, we felt much better and continued on our regular route.  

Difficulty Level: 5.5 – One of the easiest and shortest days on the trail.

Teahouse: Yak Lodge

The rooms were simple and the food was mediocre with prices starting to increase. It was enough to fill your tummy, but not that tasty.

Recommended: Yes, if you stay in Dugla there are only two choices, and this is the cheaper option.

Trekking Perfect Everest Base Camp Trekking Itinerary

Total trekking time: 2 hours and 30 minutes

Description: Leaving Dugla, the extremely difficult uphill climb takes about 1 hour. Once you’re at the top breathing is difficult, but luckily it’s pretty flat the rest of the day trekking over rocks and boulders.

At the top of the hill, there are numerous memorials for climbers who’ve lost their lives climbing Everest, including one for Scott Fisher who perished in the 1996 disaster.

Hiking 30 minutes past the top of the hill, you can see the trail to the west that leads to Dzongla. Keep that in mind for Day 11 when you’ll be heading down that way.

Difficulty Level: 8 – Hardest day so far. The uphill climb in the morning is a bitch and you’ll be so happy once you’re at the top.

Teahouse: Mother Earth Lodge  

Cost: 200-500 rupees

The rooms were a decent size, but not very cozy. There are different prices depending on which room you choose, but from what we saw there is no difference in the rooms (the only difference was that the more expensive rooms has trash bins, ours did not).

Recommended: No, go stay at Oxygen Altitude instead (We stayed there on Day 10 and liked it a lot more).

Day 9: Lobuche to Gorak Shep to Everest Base Camp!

Everest Base Camp Perfect Everest Base Camp Trekking Itinerary

Total trekking time: 6 hours and 25 minutes + Rest time:  1 hour lunch and 1 hour at Base Camp

Description: From Lobuche it’s an easy stroll for about 1 hour and then it gets pretty steep. Climbing over boulders and crossing glacial streams would be fun it wasn’t for the whole struggling to breathe thing.

Once at Gorak Shep, grab a quick lunch, because it’s only another hour and a half to EBC. You’ll be happy to drop off your big pack, which now feel three times as heavy, for the last hike to Base Camp.

The trail from GS is full of short ups and downs over loose rocks, but there are a few flat parts. You’ll know when you’re at EBC because there will be a few people gathered around the famous rock and flag pile. Time to celebrate! You made it to Everest Base Camp!!

Everest Base Camp Itinerary: Sitting at Everest Base Camp

Tip: Don’t forget to pack extra batteries because it would be the worst if your camera died for this once in a life time moment. It’s also nice to have a celebratory Snickers bar to have once you reach the top!

Difficulty Level: 8 from Lobuche to Gorak Shep, and 7 from Gorak Shep to EBC – We were surprised on how (relatively) easy the hike is from Gorak Shep to Base Camp. It’s probably because we didn’t have packs on, which was really nice.

Teahouse: Buddha Lodge

The guide book says “cozy” but I say cramped and busy. There’s hardly any place to sit during meals because the tour groups have reserved tables. Room is simple and cold, but what do you expect at 5180 meters?

Recommended: Yes, but don’t really expect much.

Tip: The potato veg with cheese is pretty good, but maybe the altitude was messing with my taste buds too.
Tip: Many people don’t sleep well at Gorak Shep because of the altitude. To counter that, we both drank about a half liter of electrolyte water before bed and again once we woke up. Surprisingly, we slept like babies up there, expect for the mandatory midnight bathroom run thanks to Diamox side effects.

Kala Pattar Perfect Everest Base Camp Trekking Itinerary

Total trekking time: 5 hours and 45 minutes + Rest time:  30 minutes at the top of Kala Pattar and 1 hour for lunch in Gorak Shep

Description: Don’t have too high of expectations for Kala Pattar, it’s honestly just a massive rock pile. But the views from the top are incredible!

Make sure you have a decent breakfast before you start otherwise you risk being a baby like Ben was because he was low on sugar.

At the top, you will have 360 degree views of Himalayan giants like Khumbutse, Changtse, Lhotse, Nuptse and of course Everest, which looks like a black diamond peering over the shoulder of the other mountains.

Once you have taken it all in at the top, head down and grab your pack and start heading back to Lobuche. You’ll feel like you could run a marathon as you come down from the mountain, it’s a pretty cool feeling. The hike from Gorak Shep to Lobuche is about the same difficulty as coming up the day before.

Tip: Bring other candy bar to celebrate at the top, or if you are Ben, you eat it 20 minutes in because he was low on blood sugar and could barely walk.
Tip: If for some reason you cannot make it to the top of Kala Pattar, like if you’re not feeling well or running short on time, it is totally okay. Honestly, the views are about the same at the one hour mark up the hill as the 3 hour mark at the top. The only difference is some mountains appear more visable and the glacial lakes show up below.

Difficulty Level: 10 – Kala Pattar is one of those hills that just seem to get higher and higher the further you climb. At that altitude, you need to take your time. It seriously took us 3 hours to reach the top of KP and only 40 minutes to get down. 

Teahouse: Oxygen Altitude  

This place has really done a good job on making you feel at home. The rooms are huge and the beds are really comfy. The veg momos, veg curry and veg pasta are all good (and us fattys ordered them all in one meal)

Recommended: Yes, it’s the best accommodation in Lobuche.

Watch Part 2 of our video diary from Day 7 through 10 of our trek. It shows you what Everest Base Camp is really like and the incredible views from Kala Pattar.

YouTube video

Hiking Cloud Perfect Everest Base Camp Trekking Itinerary

Total trekking time: 3 hours

Description: Heading south from Lobuche you will come to a fork after about 25 minutes. Instead of veering left on the same trail you came up on from Dugla, take the path to the right and stroll along the side of the mountain with great views of Cholatse to the south and Ama Dablam to the east.

Tip: As you make your turn to the west,take the path that leads down into the valley and not up the hill. Follow the river upstream and you’ll be fine. We got a little lost and had to scale down a couple hundred meters to find the correct path.
Tip: Make sure to leave early in the morning because around 11 a.m. thick clouds are commonly roll in the valley and it’s difficult to see the route.

Difficulty Level: 6.5 – Pretty flat trail that gradually slopes downward and then a small uphill right before Dzongla.

Teahouse: Mountain View Lodge

Simple lodge with basic rooms, but has really good food.

Tip: Tell the hotel owner the night before your breakfast and take-away lunch order for the next day because you’ll be leaving really early.

Cho La Pass Perfect Everest Base Camp Trekking Itinerary

Total trekking time: 8 hours + Rest time: 1 hour at the top of Cho La Pass and 1 hour in Thangnak for lunch

Description: It’s recommended to reach the top of Cho La pass before 9 a.m. because the glacier ice at the top can start melting later in the day, making it dangerous to cross.

So an early start around 5:30 a.m. is required to make it in time. It’s an easy stroll leaving from Dzongla and then there’s a steep climb up a rock hill.

As you approach the rock face, turn right, and go up at a 45 degree angle climbing over boulders. You’ll be rewarded with an excellent view behind you once you make it up the top. Continue hiking and stay to the left, traversing boulders as you can see the tongue of the glacier to your right.

Once the boulders end, cross the glacier with a wide angle, not going uphill too much. You don’t want fall in the glacier pool right before the pass. When you reach the top of the pass, celebrate and rest for a bit, you deserve it.  

Once you had your fill of the view at the top, hike down the slippery rocks, loose gravel and traverse massive boulders. Next, trek uphill over a short mound and then back down again a narrow valley that leads to Thangnak.

After lunch in Thangnak, hike north, parallel with the glacier on the east side of the moraine wall, until you see a white flag signaling you to climb into the glacier field. Try your best to follow the maze of stone cairns while admiring the turquoise pools until you reach the west wall of the glacier moraine. Hike over the wall and down into your final destination of Gokyo. Wow! What a day!

Difficulty Level: 9.5 – It’s a difficult climb up to the pass, but your body should be acclimatized after coming from Everest, so it’s not too bad. Trekking from the other direction would be a much more challenging task. Also, take your time hiking down the steep rocks leading down from the pass. We slipped a few times and it could create a “rocky” situation for anyone below you.

Teahouse: Gokyo Resort

Try to snag a room on the second floor with nice views of the lake. The restaurant has good food and the staff is extremely friendly.

Tip: Try to restrain yourself from buying every pastry item from the attached bakery because you’ll run the risk of spending your last rupees. But you do have to try the apple pie and brownies, you might never leave Gokyo.

Gokyo Sacred Lakes Perfect Everest Base Camp Trekking Itinerary

Total trekking time: 3 hours and 50 minutes + Rest Time:  40-minute stop at the 4th lake and 45 minutes at the 5th lake

Description: Relatively easy gradual slope heading north with some ups and downs. The route can be a little tricky, but just stick to the lakes and hills and away from the glacier, because we came across a trail that fell into the glacier.

Make sure to climb up to the glacier moraine just east of the fifth lake for a great view of Everest and surrounding mountains.

Tip: If you are really crazy, bring a towel and a change of warm clothes after taking a freezing dip into one of the lakes. If you want to play it safe, try dunk yourself in the 3rd lake that is right next to Gokyo so you can thaw out next to a stove.

Difficulty Level: 6.5 – Pretty easy with a few ups and downs, but there are many trails crisscrossing so stick to the hills.

Teahouse: Gokyo Resort (Same at Day 12)

Tip: After your day hike, spend the rest of the day in the bakery with coffee and yummy baked goods, you won’t regret it.

Gokyo Ri Sacred Lakes Perfect Everest Base Camp Trekking Itinerary

Total trekking time: 8 hours and 15 minutes (3 hours return up Gokyo Ri) + Rest time: 1 hour lunch break

Description: Gokyo Ri is challenging straight uphill hike, but you’ll be impressed with the views from the top. After climbing back down you’ll finally start heading downhill. Whao-hoo!!

You’ll get to see the remaining Sacred Lakes (which the 1st lake is more like a puddle) as you walk down into the valley. Passing through many small villages, take a lunch break at any one of them. Continue until you reach Dole.

Difficulty Level: 5.5 – Gokyo Ri is like Kala Pattar, but since your body is more use to the altitude you should be fine hiking it. Don’t get me wrong, it sucks, but you’ll be rewarded once you reach the top.

Beside the Ri, the rest of your day is easy. You’ll enjoy getting more oxygen back into your lungs and body as you go lower and lower.

Teahouse: Yeti Lodge

Cost: Free, but had to eat dinner and breakfast.

The dining room was the cutest on the entire trek with big pillows and cozy decorations. It looked like a café back home. Try the organic veg soup with fresh herbs, it was the best soup we had on the entire trek.

Flowers Rhododendrons Perfect Everest Base Camp Trekking Itinerary

Total trekking time: 5 hours and 15 minutes + Rest time:  15-minute snack break in Mong La

Description: If you’re like us, you might start to get a little goofy as more oxygen hits your body. You’re going downhill all day except for the hour climb up from Phoete Tenga to Mong La. 

The rest of the day is walking on well-groomed paths with many places to stop and rest along the way. Enjoy the beautiful greenery that surrounds the valley.

Difficulty Level: 6.5 – Going downhill is great! But the hour steep up hill is kind of a buzz kill.

Teahouse: Khumbu Lodge (Same as Days 2 & 3)

Tip: Don’t forget to stop by Himalayan Java Café next door to Khumbu Lodge and eat as many walnut brownies as you can!
Tip: Time to celebrate! Congratulate yourself with a drink at the highest Irish Bar in the world. But don’t have too many, you have a long day tomorrow.

River Perfect Everest Base Camp Trekking Itinerary

Total trekking time: 6 hours and 15 minutes + Rest Time:  45-minute lunch in Phakding

Description: Reverse your steps from Days 1 & 2 from the beginning of your trek as you head down the massive hill before Namche. Cross suspension bridges and pass through the small villages as you see other bright-eyed trekkers heading the opposite direction.

Difficulty Level: 5 – You should be feeling like an Olympic athlete as you stroll back through the small villages in the valley. 

Teahouse: Sunny Garden Lodge

It’s had a small room and not the best food. I also heard mice in the middle of the night. But hey, it was just our last night.

Recommended: No, there are plenty of other places in Lukla.

Airplane Propeller Perfect Everest Base Camp Trekking Itinerary

Description: Grab a quick breakfast and head to the airport. Make sure to get there early, because it gets crazy in the one room terminal. Once your plane arrives, it’s a quick turn around and you’re boarded. Say one last prayer to the Khumbu gods as you take off on what can be the scariest flight in the world.

Watch Part 3 of our video diary from Day 11 through 17 of our trek. It shows our trek over the challenging Cho La Pass and our final decent out of the Himalayas. We added bloopers and even a Snickers commercial we made for your enjoyment!

YouTube video

Are you planning a trek to Everest Base Camp? We can help!

We have TONS more resources on trekking EBC. Check out our Nepal Homepage for more resources and some of our favorite articles on Everest Base Camp below.

Ultimate Guide to Trekking EBC Independently

How Much Does an Everest Base Camp Trek Cost?

Perfect Everest Base Camp Packing List

Everything You Need to Know for Your First Trip to Nepal

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Perfect Everest Base Camp Trekking Itinerary

We want to hear from you!

What do you think about our itinerary? Have you trekked to Everest Base Camp or Gokyo Lakes? Do you have any additional tips? Share in the comments below.

Comments (36) on “ Perfect Everest Base Camp Trek Itinerary ”

Hey! What a fantastic guide! Thank you. Just one question – is it possible to prebook the tehouses? Thanks Stuart

Hey Stuart! We did not have to prebook teahouse and we went in the busy season of April. I think you can book hotels in Namche Bazaar, but anything further than that you might have to just wing it or call them in advance to see if they take reservations.

Hi! So I am in the mountains of Vietnam right now and I’ve been reading through your Everest Base Camp articles because I’ve decided since I am already in this part of the world and the flights from Hanoi to Kathmandu are not expensive I am going to do both Annapurna and Everest Base Camp alone. Here is my question and it may sound silly…. For Everest Base Camp are there road signs telling you which direction to go in for each stop? Like ya know… "This way to Monjo" "This way to Goyko" are there road signs to Everest Base Camp? and it’s the same question for Annapurna. If there are road signs to Everest Base Camp I am 1,000 percent gonna do it on my own, but if I were to have to sole rely on a map, it might make be think differently or well, I’m not THAT great with maps….. Road signs???

Hi Mykki, not a silly question at all. There are signs leaving each town pointing you in the direction of the next town/village. The trail is pretty well marked and you won’t have any issues. And if you do get turned around, you can always ask a fellow hiker or a local to point you in the right direction. Hope that helps! Have fun trekking!

Hi Folks! Great article! We’re prepping to do EBC this April. I really like the Steripen idea. Where were you getting the water to purify? Out of rivers or is there ‘tap water’ of some sort to be found? Did you actually find that you got 150 liters out of a set of lithium batteries? Cheers- Matt and Jen

Hey Matt and Jen! We love our Steripen and it really came in handy on the EBC trek. There will be spots to fill up at tea houses every hour or two. No need to fill up from rivers. And then you just sterilize that water with the Steripen. If you get the good lithium batteries, the Steripen does work for a long time (I didn’t exactly count it out, but I would be very confident with the stats on how long it lasts). Just make sure to bring spare batteries just in case. Happy trekking!

Hi Katie and Ben, Thanks for such a detailed guide! Me and my boyfriend will be doing EBC in September and plan to follow your guide almost exactly. When looking at travel insurance with World Nomads it states that "You must be with a professional, qualified and licensed guide, instructor or operator". Was this the case when you purchased insurance via World Nomads?

Hi Louise, I just checked our World Nomads insurance policy and it doesn’t say anything about needing to be with a professional or guide. Have you contacted World Nomads about this question?

This seems strange that you would come across this, because World Nomads gives out these policies for any type of traveler (whether you are trekking EBC or not) and when you travel you will not always be with a guide. Let me know what World Nomads says 🙂

Hi Ben & Katie, Your Journey is really inspiring me. I’m planning to do EBC trek on coming October. May I follow the same Itinerary for October or should I have to change the itinerary. And also I’m totally new to mountain trekking. Can you please tell me about what dress have to wear during day & night time.

Hey Boobalakannan, it’s the same route to follow whether it’s in the spring or fall. We have a whole series of articles on how to trek in EBC and what to pack on our Nepal Page.

Let us know if you have any more questions! Happy planning!

Ben & Katie, My daughter and I are gearing up for EBC/Gokyo and was wondering a couple of things. Did you have to sanitize coffee at the tea houses or does general processing kill the parasites? Did you acquire all snacks in Kathmandu or purchase along the way? Also, did you use diamox or just trust your acclimatization schedule? We’ve trekked high country in the Rockies, climbed Rainier, but this will be our first go at sustained altitude and I’m afraid of my old man disease. BTW, your blog is very well done and informative; I see so much of my daughter in your lives….consider that envy.

Hey Gary, thanks so much for the compliment 🙂

Here are the answers to your questions:

1) For coffee/tea at the teahouses, they provide you with a thermos of hot water, which is safe to drink. Any water that hasn’t been boiled needs to be sterilized (we recommend the Steripen).

2) We had been traveling for 6 months prior to our trek, so we bought our snacks in Kathmandu. There are a few stores in the Thamel neighborhood that have a decent selection of trekking snacks, but if you are coming from home, we’d definitely recommend purchasing your snacks prior to your trip. You’ll have a way bigger selection! (Plus, we weren’t easily able to find things like protein bars, beef jerky, or a good selection of trail mix and dried fruit in Kathmandu.)

3) We took Diamox (purchased in Thamel). We’ve done high altitude hiking before, but never that high for such a long period of time. And I’ve gotta say it affected us much more than any other hiking we’ve done. We don’t like taking medicine very much, but are happy we did in this case.

Best of luck. We’d love to hear about your experience! What a special thing to share with your daughter.

Hello Katie and Ben! Just discovered all of this wonderful info, thank you so much! Planning a trek for this fall, and although the route that you took looks perfect, not sure we will have the time to do the whole loop. That said, we may need to choose between out and back to EBC or out and back to Gokyo Lakes. I’ve been reading that the EBC trek can become quite crowded and even a bit ‘touristy’, where the Gokyo trek is a bit more remote. Gokyo offers glimpses of Everset, but of course doesn’t get you to base camp. With the ‘touristy’ thing in mind, (and us not interested in big crowds) wondering what your advice might be. If you had to choose one of the out and back treks, which one would you do, having experienced what you did? We have 3 weeks total, that’s with travel from the states, so I’m guessing a total of 12-14 days on the trail. Any thoughts very much appreciated! Thanks and cheers -Kelly

Hi Katie and Ben,

My boyfriend and I are planning a 6 month trip around south east Asia next year starting with the base camp trek in April. Your blog has been an absolute dream with regards to our planning, we love it and it’s been so useful.

I wanted to ask you how much money you think is sensible to have on us for the trek? Also i’ve read that it is not safe to do the part of the trek to base camp itself without a guide as it is really easy to get lost. Did you find this to be a problem or do you think it is reasonable to attempt it without a guide?

Thank you in advance 🙂 Jo

Hi Joanne! That’s so exciting your going to go to EBC! If you check out our EBC Budget article it describes how much you should bring on the trek.

To be honest, we did not have a problem finding any of the trails along the way to EBC. The paths are well defined and there are always a handful of people within site so you can follow in their direction. If you’re fully prepared and know how to acclimate properly then you will be fine without a guide, we were 🙂

yes we have done many times trek to Gokyo, Chola pass, Renjola pass, Ebc base camp.Island peak. The trekking destinations are very popular and highly demanded Treks in Nepal

Glad to hear you’re getting out on the trail.

We are heading to Nepal next Saturday and plan to follow your route almost exactly as will plan to trek independently. Your blog is excellent and we’ve found each page really helpful with our preparation! We haven’t booked our Lukla flights yet as we figured it would be easier to do this in Kathmandu after doing lots of research. I just wondered how you found this process and if you found getting a seat on the planes difficult without a guide or porter-guide to get you to the front of the que? We have done a few long distance treks before and a relatively experienced, but I’ve read that the Cho La Pass can be dangerous. I just wondered how you found it and if you would recommend getting a guide for this section (if this is possible)?

Any tips/advice would be greatly appreciated. Sally & Dave

Hi Sally & Dave, I’m so glad you’ve found our site helpful! Great questions, we’ll do our best to answer.

1) Yes, waiting until Kathmandu should be just fine (at least it was in our experience!). You might want to plan to have a couple extra days just in case the exact day you want isn’t available, but we got our first choice, so you might be lucky, too. Also, just something to keep in mind – if the weather isn’t good the flights won’t go as scheduled, so you’ll have to go later than planned (everyone – even people who had their flight reserved far in advance). And you don’t really get seat number assignments. It’s a small plane and you just kind of walk on first come first serve. It doesn’t matter if you had a guide or not (at least that was the case on our plane).

2) We were a little nervous for Cho La Pass too, but it turned out to be fine. We didn’t have any special equipment and most people we saw didn’t (except for the big organized groups). I’m sure you could get a guide for that leg if you really sought it out, but I don’t think it’s super necessary unless you’re feeling really apprehensive. When you start the trek, you’ll kind of run into other people doing the same thing (there’s only one path, after all haha!), so follow them, stick together and use each other for encouragement. There’s a great place to stop after you cross the pass where lots of people gather and kind of encourage each other – it’s fun! And after the pass, you’ll want to be careful scrambling down the rocks, but if you take it slowly you should be fine. Next, you’ll cross a glacier and when you reach Gokyo after a long day, you’ll be so happy!

I hope these ramblings help! Have SO much fun and let us know how it goes. We’d love to hear how you like it.

best & detailed. i’m planning to trek lukla – tengboche with my wife & 8 years old daughter. my concern is – is this trek route is suitable for my daughter. where should i book the guide – at katmandu or at lukla.

cheers sampen

Hey Sampen! Sounds like a fun family trip you have planned. That’s a tough question – it truly depends on your daughter. I’m assuming you’ve brought her trekking before if you’re planning to go to Nepal with her, so if she has done some big hikes she may be just fine. We did see a handful of children along the trek (mostly at the lower towns), but definitely not a ton. If you are confident in your daughter’s stamina and trekking abilities I would say go for it! The only thing is that everyone (adults and super fit people included!) reacts to the altitude differently. So I’d be sure to pay attention to how your daughter is handling the change in altitude and build in some extra days so you can take it slowly. Best of luck. Let us know how it goes.

The cost per tea house you have mentioned in surprising very low. What time of the year did you do EBC?

We did the EBC in April of 2016. Yes, tea house prices are low, but typically you must eat at their adjoining restaurants if you stay there. This is how the tea house owners really make their money. Some are even free to sleep in, but you must eat there. Your food bill plus the charge for your room is the price you pay for a bed, but still isn’t bad 🙂

Hey Katie, great post! Are your prices quoted including the food you purchased or just the bed cost? There are so many "averages" on the interwebs…can you give us an example of the breakfast, lunch, and dinner costs you two experienced? Thanks!

Hey Daniel, we’re happy to clarify! The meals were on average $3-5 USD per person (roughly 300 – 500 rupees). You can definitely spend more or less per meal, and the prices do tend to increase as you get higher in elevation. Considering that many ingredients need to be trekked in, we thought the prices were very reasonable.

We actually made an entire post about how much our trek cost us and broke down the expenses by accommodation, food, etc. I think the article will give you a much better idea

(Just as a side note: We trekked independently – no porter or guide service – so our costs will be cheaper than if you go through an organized group or hire a porter.)

A Great Post!

Thanks so much!

Awesome article with day to day itinerary with description and pictures of Mount Everest trekking area Khumbu

Thank you so much, Shankar. That’s very kind of you to say 🙂

I love your guys’ blog and have read it multiple times! We are doing this trek in March and one of the biggest questions I have is about the flight to Lukla – did you book your flights before you got there? Who did you book your flights through? I want to book our tickets before but unsure of who to do it through. Thanks!!

Hey, I’m so happy to connect 🙂 That is a great question, and certainly one we were a bit concerned about. There’s not a ton of info on it out there. But there’s good news – you really don’t need to worry about this for a while! While you can certainly purchase your flight in advance, it’s not always necessary. If you are going to be really pressed for time and will only have a day in Kathmandu, I’d recommend getting your flight ahead of time. You won’t be able to purchase it like a regular flight on Kayak or Skyscanner. Instead, you’ll have to contact a tour company in Kathmandu via email and pay them using PayPal. It usually costs a bit more to arrange this in advance with PayPal fees, etc. (It’s not super significant – maybe around $30.)

Remember when you buy a flight to Lukla, it is really smart to have a few days of wiggle room since flights only leave when weather permits. We were super lucky and only got delayed a couple hours, but we met a guy on our flight who had come to the airport 3 days in a row because they weren’t able to fly due to poor conditions.

We bought our flights through an agency in the Thamel neighborhood (can’t think of the name at the moment). We walked into the shop 2 days before we wanted to leave and bought them on the spot. It is right across the street from the biggest supermarket in Thamel, so it was very convenient when we were stocking up on snacks to bring with 🙂 I think prices are relatively similar all around town (the flight to Lukla stays pretty much the same price at all times), and most of the agencies are the same – we chose this one mainly because of convenience and also because our friend was picking up his there as well.

The great thing about the flights to and from Lukla is that your return date is flexible. If it takes you longer to do the trek, you can call the agency and they’ll switch your date. And vice versa – if you finish early, they can get you on an earlier flight.

I hope this helps. Please don’t hesitate to ask if you have other questions when planning. I know it can be a bit overwhelming, but it is SO worth it!

Thank you so much! I connected with an agent that was recommended on a couple blogs so hopefully that all pans out! I’ll let you know how it works out! Your blog is super helpful by the way!

I’m glad you got it sorted out, Courtney! Let us know if you like the agent and we can recommend them to others who ask 🙂 Have the BEST time! We’d love to hear about your experience. (And thanks for the kind words!)

Love your blogs on EBC – the description and pictures are awesome. My husband and I are planning to do the EBC trek in Mei 2017 (with guide and porter) ….. we are reaching 50’s. We will most likely walk like a snail but we hope our journey will be as interesting as yours…..and hope the weather will be kind to us. Thanks for sharing your experience. Azian Malaysia

Hi Azian, You’ll love the EBC trek! We would love to go back. Trust me, we walked like snails the whole way, but I think that is best 🙂 The weather in May should be good. Keep us posted on how it goes! Trek on!

Hi Katie…nice to meet you Im Raj from Malaysia, I’m on a quest to EBC in Nov2017 accompanied with my friend.. we are going solo, without a porter or a guide..which i find the Gokyo circuit a little tricky and a little hesitant to do it without a guide as i do not know what to expect, and we could get lost in the dangerously unforgiving terrain.. So i was scouring the web for ton of info as im already planning meticulously.. yet i was still pondering some things as i could not get much info of incorporating the Gokyo circuit into my EBC trek until i came across your video in Youtube which eventually led me to your blog. By far your blog is the most comprehensive one i’ve come across, and im very glad i spotted it. Now i know how to get there and what to expect. One of my concerns are the frigid temperatures and snowfall as im from the tropical southeast Asia at sea level, i haven’t really experienced weather below 18’C. Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience to fellow first-time trekkers like us. I would be extremely glad if you could share any other valuable advise for me. Drop me a msg at [email protected] . Thanks a million. Cheers!!

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Torn Tackies Travel Blog

The Ultimate Everest Base Camp Trek Itinerary: How to Get from Lukla to Everest Base Camp

Are you planning a trip to Everest Base Camp? Sitting at 5 380 m, the EBC trek in Nepal is one of the most iconic hikes in the world and tops any adventurer’s bucket list!

But walking over 130 km from Lukla to Everest Base Camp is tough! Mentally, physically and emotionally. Every day of your expedition will push you to your limits.

The reality is that no matter how intense your preparation is, it’s not your fitness levels or even your age that will determine whether you reach Everest Base Camp. It’s about how your body adjusts to a higher altitude.

Some people struggle, others don’t. This is why the acclimatization schedule in your Everest Base Camp trek itinerary is so crucial.

After successfully reaching base camp, I put together this comprehensive guide which includes step-by-step details of the best Everest Base Camp route to take, including the trekking time, the highlights, the best tea houses, how to deal with altitude sickness and so much more!

What to pack for Everest Base Camp

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When to plan your Everest Base Camp Trek itinerary

April to May (Spring) and October to November (Autumn) are the most popular hiking months in Nepal offering perfect conditions for your Everest Base Camp trek.

But these months also attract scores of travelers looking to take on the Himalaya mountain ranges and so the trail does get busy.

Everest Base Camp tour itinerary

Everest Base Camp Trek Route

If you follow my Everest Base Camp trek itinerary, you’ll need 12 days to start and return to Lukla. You will reach Everest Base Camp on day 9 which is enough time for your body to adjust to the higher altitude.

Day 1: Kathmandu to Lukla to Phakding

Day 2: phakding to namche bazaar, day 3: namche bazaar (acclimatization day), day 4: namche bazaar to khumjung, day 5: khumjung to phortse, day 6: phortse to dingboche, day 7: dingboche (acclimatization day), day 8: dingboche to lobuche, day 9: lobuche to gorak shep to everest base camp to gorak shep, day 10: gorak shep to kala patthar to pheriche, day 11: pheriche to namche bazaar, day 12: namche bazaar to lukla.

I did not take altitude sickness medication such as Diamox but I walked slowly, extremely slowly – probably the slowest anyone’s ever walked to EBC. This Everest Base Camp trek itinerary offers the best acclimatizing schedule to allow your body to naturally adjust to a higher altitude.

14 Day Everest Base Camp trek itinerary

The start of your Everest Base Camp itinerary: Kathmandu

Your first few days in Nepal will be in the capital city, Kathmandu. Sitting at 1 400m above sea level, it’s recommended to spend at least 2 days here.

This allows your body to get used to the higher elevation, especially if you’re coming from sea level.

Kathmandu is a dynamic city with a rich culture and tradition, and you can easily spend a few extra days exploring if you have the time. Most tour operators include a day excursion to the nearby sights and temples within the city.

Make sure you stay in Thamel. It’s the hiking hub of Kathmandu with lots of eager trekkers choosing to base themselves here.

You can buy all your Everest Base Camp hiking gear in Thamel so don’t worry if you’ve forgotten something behind. Or if, like me , you arrived in Nepal with no hiking gear – only a pair of hiking boots! Thamel has got you covered.

Lukla Airport in Nepal

Altitude: Kathmandu (1 400m) – Lukla (2 860m) – Phakding (2 610m).

Trekking time: 3-4 hours | 7,4 km.

Difficulty: Easy with only a few uphill sections.

Highlight: Flight into Lukla.

Overview: The first day of your Everest Base Camp trek itinerary will start bright and early with a flight out of Kathmandu to the infamous Tenzing Hillary Airport in Lukla. From there, you’ll hit the ground running and hike just over 3 hours to Phakding, your stop for the night.

Tea house: Royal Sherpa Resort.

Everest Base Camp trek itinerary day 1

The day has finally arrived – The first day of your Everest Base Camp itinerary!

The flight from Kathmandu to Lukla is only 36 minutes but it relies heavily on the weather. Even if there’s slight cloud cover, the flights are delayed or worse, canceled. Lukla Airport is one of the most dangerous airports in the world after all.

My flight with Summit Air was due to leave at 9 am, but we only left after 3 pm due to the weather conditions. The planes are tiny, and you’re allowed no more than 15kg of luggage – in total!

The flight itself was thrilling but not as frightening as I anticipated. Although I did freak out every few minutes when there was a slight bump.

Lukla to Phakding

Views on Everest Base Camp hike

Once you’ve arrived in Lukla, grab a quick bite to eat before starting the afternoon trek to Phakding.

This section from Lukla to Phakding is an easy one and it’s the perfect introduction to the Himilaya mountain range. It’s an incredibly scenic trail that hugs the mountain and runs alongside a stream.

You’ll pass through several villages and will set your sights on the first yaks and mules of your Everest Base Camp trek.

Before you know it, you’ll have reached Phakding where you’ll spend the night in your first tea house. Don’t get too used to these comfortable conditions though. The further up you go from Lukla to Everest Base Camp, the more basic the amenities become!

Tip: There are ATM’s in Lukla (and Namche) but draw cash in Kathmandu as a back-up.

Tip: There’s cell reception (NCell) in Phakding and most tea houses offer free power to charge up your phone or camera here.

Tip: Try to eat well during the first few days as you’ll start losing your appetite from day 3 of your Everest Base Camp itinerary. Remember: “Dal Bhat Power – 24 Hour”

Namche Bazaar

Altitude: Phakding (2 610m) – Namche Bazaar (3 440m).

Trekking time: 7-9 hours | 10,4 km.

Difficulty: Easy for the first section, steep and difficult for the second half.

Highlight: The views from the suspension bridges.

Overview: Day 2 is when the real hiking starts! You’ll begin with a slow hike before climbing a steep section leading to Namche Bazaar, one of the most iconic stops on your Everest Base Camp trek itinerary.

Tea house: AD Friendship Lodge.

Everest Base Camp packing list female

Day 2 is one of the most picturesque days of your Everest Base Camp trek itinerary. But you have a long day of hiking ahead of you so try to leave Phakding by 08:00 am.

The first part is an easy trek alongside pine forests and the excitement will begin to set in as you pass fellow trekkers making their way back down from Everest Base Camp to Lukla.

The glacial rivers are an impressive sight and you’ll cross several suspension bridges throughout the course of the day. These offer gorgeous views but they’re also terrifyingly high! Take in these beautiful surroundings as the landscape changes dramatically over the week.

After lunch, there is a sharp gain in elevation and the easy path suddenly becomes steeper. Take it slow to allow your body to adjust to this higher altitude.

En route to Namche Bazaar, you’ll also get your first glimpse of Mount Everest (If the weather conditions are on your side). You’ll also need to sign in at a checkpoint.

Namche Bazaar

Namche Bazaar is a picturesque village with a lively atmosphere. It’s the main trading center of the Khumbu region and a sherpa village. From Namche Bazaar it starts to get chilly but luckily there are plenty of tea houses with fireplaces to warm you up.

Tip: After you’ve arrived in Namche, pop into Hermann Helmers for their chocolate carrot cake. It’s life-changing!

Tip: Take a warm shower in Namche ($5) as it’s the cheapest you’ll find for the next 10 days!

Tip: Avoid eating meat after Namche Bazaar. Just think of it being carried up the mountain, during the heat of the day with no refrigeration. Don’t do it!

Day 3 of your EBC trek itinerary is your acclimatization day, a supposedly “rest day” to allow your body to slowly adjust to the high altitude. But that doesn’t mean you’ll get to sit inside and relax all day. Today, you’ll do an acclimatization hike to Everest View Hotel.

Boots for hiking in Nepal

Altitude: Namche Bazaar (3 440m) – Everest View Hotel (3 880m) – Namche Bazaar (3 440m).

Trekking Time: 3 hours | 2.5 km.

Difficulty: The path itself isn’t too difficult, but with the elevation gain, you’ll begin losing your breath quickly.

Highlight: Watching Everest documentaries at Liquid Bar in Namche Bazaar (3 pm or 7:30 pm).

Overview: A short hiking day to Everest View Hotel and back, followed by free time to explore Namche Bazaar.

Acclimitization hike to EBC

Even if you’re not feeling up to it, it’s important to get out and hike to a higher point, before coming back down to sleep at a lower altitude.

Today is also your second chance to get a glimpse of Mount Everest if you didn’t the day before. The trek is a tough one, and if you have not yet felt any symptoms of the higher altitude, you’ll soon begin to experience them.

Tip: There are many pubs and bars which show Everest documentaries. Make sure you watch one during your time in Namche Bazaar (But don’t drink alcohol on your way up – save that for when you return).

Khumjung in Everest Base Camp itinerary

Route: Namche Bazaar (3 440m) – Khumjung (3 780m).

Trekking time: 4 hours | 4 km.

Difficulty: Moderately easy as it’s a short trekking day but from today the cold sets in.

Highlights: Playing card games in front of the fire, wrapped up in my sleeping bag because it was so cold.

Overview: You’ll go off the standard trekking route from Namche to Khumjung.

Tea House: Hill Top Lodge.

nights at the tea house

This is where most Everest Base Camp trek itineraries differ. From Namche Bazaar, there are two routes you can take both of which link up again in Dingboche on day 6 of your trek.

The first option (and most popular) is from Namche to Tengboche, before reaching Dingboche .

The second option (and my chosen route) is from Namche to Khumjung and Phortse which are on the other side of the river.

I chose the Khumjung route as it’s the less popular option. As a result, the hike isn’t as crowded, yet it offers the same sweeping views of the valleys below. But don’t worry, you’ll still get to experience the Tengboche route on your way back down from Everest Base Camp to Lukla.

Today was the first day that I layered up as it did get quite cold. You’ll pass a small local hospital as well as the famous Sir Edmund Hilary School before arriving in the small village of Khumjung.

When you get to Khumjung you’ll notice the change in the landscape. It’s far more arid and drier, with very few green luscious trees.

Tip: Ensure you have a pack of playing cards and a book with you. They’ll come in handy on short trekking days like today.

Day 5 Khumjung to Phortse Everest Base Camp route

Route: Khumjung (3 780m) – Phortse (3 900m).

Trekking time: 6 hours | 7 km.

Difficulty: Although there isn’t much altitude gain today, there are still many sections where you walk downhill, before climbing back uphill so this constant up/down is strenuous.

Highlights: Today was the first day I began to feel the effects of the high altitude and I lost my appetite.

Overview: The trail from Khumjung to Phortse is incredibly scenic and you’ll walk alongside all the Himalaya giants.

Tea house: Phortse Resort.

Gopro Camera for Everest Base Camp

Day 5 of your Everest Base Camp trek itinerary will start with a 2-hour climb to Mongla (3 975m). You’ll then go back down to 3 800m which is the elevation of your next stop, Phortse.

You’re still on the “quieter” route so enjoy this path as it gets busier from tomorrow when you head to Dingboche.

Today is the day I started to feel the effects of altitude sickness and by the time I reached our lunch stop, I had lost my appetite and a terrible headache was setting in. I wrote this detailed guide to how hard Everest Base Camp is and it includes these moments where i felt horrible!

There is also a considerable drop in temperature – It was 4 degrees celsius when we started walking today. The pipes in Phortse were frozen and the guides start to give you hot water in the evening which will be your drinking water from here on out.

Tip: When you’re given hot water in your drinking bottles, put one inside your sleeping bag to act as a hot water bottle.

Tip: I took a headache tablet at lunchtime and after a good night’s rest, I was feeling much better. If you’re not feeling well, don’t be afraid to take a pain killer but make sure you communicate with your guide so that he knows to keep an eye on you.

Day 6 walking to Dingboche

Altitude: Phortse (3 800m) – Dingboche (4 360m).

Trekking time: 8 hours | 9 km.

Difficulty: Today is a long, tiring day and breathing is difficult. The first few hours are tough, followed by an easier trek as you get closer to Dingboche.

Highlights: Arriving in Dingboche – today was a hectic day and I was so happy when it was over!

Overview: You’ll trek the entire day with a constant gradual incline until you arrive in Dingboche, where our EBC itinerary will meet up with the others who are coming from Tengboche.

Tea house: Sonam Friendship Lodge.

Tea houses at Everest Base Camp

Today is a long trekking day!

When I woke up on day 6, I was feeling fit and strong (unlike the afternoon before) . I was extremely aware of how sick I had felt yesterday and despite feeling better, I took precautionary measures and walked extra slow with many breaks.

The first 5 hours involve constant uphill climbs, followed by downhill treks, before going uphill again! You’ll eventually pass the tree line, and the entire landscape becomes bare and rocky and resembles a desert.

Today you’ll be surrounded by all the Himilayan giants: Ama Dablam, Nuptse, and Cholatse, with unspoiled views of Mount Everest.

Throughout the day you’ll hear the sounds of helicopters making emergency rescues as trekkers begin struggling with the higher altitude and need to be taken back down to Namche Bazaar from Everest Base Camp. It’s quite scary to see how frequently people require this emergency assistance!

Luckily, the final stretch to Dingboche after lunch isn’t as tough as the section before.

Tip: There’s no cell reception as you get closer to Dingboche so enjoy the next few days going off the grid.

Tip: On day 6 of our Everest Base Camp itinerary, a few trekkers started taking altitude sickness medication as a precautionary measure. I didn’t take Diamox but my guide had in case I needed it. As always, be cautious of the altitude.

Tip: You’ll lose your appetite, but order boiled potatoes to get some food into your stomach.

Today is the last of your acclimatization days so you’ll spend a second night in Dingboche. Again, it’s important to do an acclimatization hike from Dingboche .

Everest Base Camp trek tours

Altitude: Dingboche (4 360m) – viewpoint (4 900m) – Dingboche (4 360m).

Hike time: 3 – 5 hours | 3 km.

Difficulty: Short, but steep climb so take it slow and steady.

Overview: Today is a short acclimatization hike to a viewpoint and back.

Highlight: Views of the Chukhung Valley and Island Peak.

How hard is Everest Base Camp

I woke up on day 7 of my EBC trek and I was feeling terrible. The Khumbu cough had really set in, I was freezing cold, my nose was constantly running and I was beginning to lose my voice.

When you reach Dingboche, the luxuries of warm water, comfortable beds, and flushing toilets are long gone, and this is when the mental challenge begins. But listen to your body and be honest with your guides about how you’re feeling.

During my time in Dingboche, a porter from a different tour group (who had hiked to EBC many times before) had gotten sick and had to be airlifted back to Lukla. This was a harsh reality of the effects of high altitude climbing and how it can happen to anyone, no matter your experience, fitness level, or age.

Dingboche Acclimatization Hike

Today you’ll go on an acclimatization hike to a viewpoint overlooking the Chukhung Valley. Going to this higher altitude, and then returning to Dingboche will make you feel so much better (as it did for me). So, gear up, pack your day bag, and head outside for a few hours.

The acclimatization hike from Dingboche to the viewpoint is pretty steep and rocky, but you’ll be hiking at a much slower pace than the previous days. All around you, you’re surrounded by towering mountains and peaks, and it’s a sight you won’t easily forget!

Once at the viewpoint, you’ll have the best views of Ama Dablam and Island Peak, as well as the symbolic prayer flags.

I added Island Peak to my Everest Base Camp itinerary (and I HIGHLY recommend you do the same). It’s 4 extra days of trekking after you’ve reached Everest Base Camp, and it was one of the best and most thrilling experiences of my life!

Tip: After returning from your acclimatization hike pop into Cafe Himalaya Bakery to watch their daily Everest movie.

Higher altitude trekking at EBC

Altitude: Dingboche (4 360m) – Lobuche (4 930m).

Trekking time: 7 hours | 10.7km.

Difficulty: Hard! The section from the bottom of the icefall to the Everest memorial is brutal. It’s steep, and it’s far.

Highlight: The climb to the Everest memorial. It’s painfully steep and I struggled!

Overview: As you leave Dingboche, the first part of your trek is relatively easy. Until you reach Dukla! This is where the trail becomes steep. From there it’s an excruciating 2-hour climb before the path becomes flat again. You’ll walk alongside the Khumbu Glacier, the longest glacier in Nepal.

Tea house: Sherpa Lodge.

Day 8 EBC itinerary in Nepal

I kept a day-to-day journal of my Everest Base Camp trek itinerary, and in it, day 8 is highlighted (in capital letters with several exclamation marks) “ The hardest day EVER! ”

And thinking back to this day, it really was!

The first 3 hours include a gradual incline before crossing to Dukla which will be your lunch stop for the day. Enjoy the break, because you are going to be hating life for the next 2 hours – it’s a killer of a climb. Breathing at an altitude of over 4 500m doesn’t make it any easier!

You’ll pass many trekkers who are making their way back from Everest Base Camp. I was shocked to see the condition most of them were in. Many people were even getting carried down by mules! They looked like they had really taken strain – coughing, no voice, chapped lips, and no energy.

I was hoping and praying that wouldn’t be me in a few days (but unfortunately, it was – except I didn’t need to be carried down!)

Everest Memorial

At the top, you’ll reach the Everest Memorial for climbers who’ve lost their lives in their attempt to reach the summit of Mount Everest. There is a somber mood, and I get goosebumps thinking about all those climbers and their families.

From the memorial, it’s about a 1-hour trek alongside the Khumbu Glacier to Lobuche. This last section is far easier than the previous one. Again, take it slowly!

Tip: At this stage, everyone is feeling the effects of the altitude and the cold. You’re not alone! Just keep pushing through, it’s nearly over! (says me who wanted to turn back countless times) .

Everest Base Camp trek difficulty

Altitude: Lobuche (4 930m) – Gorak Shep (5 160m) – Everest Base Camp (5 360m) – Gorak Shep (5 160m)

Time: 10 hours | 12 km.

Difficulty: Moderate with a steep climb towards Gorak Shep and an easy trail to Everest Base Camp. The difficulty lies in hiking time and the high altitude.

Overview: Today is the day you reach Everest Base Camp! You’ll arrive in Gorak Shep, drop off your bags and have lunch before departing north along the Khumbu Glacier to Everest Base Camp.

Highlight: It should be reaching Everest Base Camp, right?

Tea house: Buddha Lodge

Whilst the previous day’s hike from Dingboche to Lobuche was certainly the toughest and most physical section, getting to Gorak Shep, and then on to EBC and Kala Pattar were the most emotionally and mentally challenging sections of my entire Everest Base Camp trek itinerary.

Your day will start with a moderate hike leading to Gorak Shep from Lobuche. After about an hour into your hike, the path becomes steep with numerous boulders to pass. Whilst it isn’t a strenuous climb, the altitude will affect you and you’ll be walking very slowly.

Gorak Shep and Everest Base Camp

Everest Base Camp hike in Nepal

You’ll reach Gorak Shep at lunchtime where you’ll drop off your bags and prepare for the afternoon hike to EBC.

You don’t actually stay at Everest Base Camp. Gorak Shep is your base with the closest tea house to EBC.

After lunch, you’ll trek to Everest Base Camp. The path is made of rocky sections and loose stones. You’ll be exhausted at this point. But the adrenalin rush will keep you going. The excitement to finally reach Everest Base Camp will get you to the end.

Arriving at base camp is surreal. You can see the Khumbu Icefall in the distance, one of the most notorious sections leading up to the Everest summit.

It’s an eerie feeling reaching Everest Base Camp but absolutely gorgeous standing at the foot of the highest mountain in the world.

You’ll then make your way back to Gorak Shep which is where you’ll spend the night.

The reality

How tough is the EBC trek

The most vivid memory I have of my entire Everest Base Camp trek is sitting in the tea house in Gorak Shep after returning from Base Camp.

The communal area of more than 60 people was quiet. You could only hear the sounds of loud coughing. There were no celebrations by those who had made it to Everest Base Camp and the atmosphere was not jovial.

Everyone was feeling sick and looking worse for wear. People were being helivaced from Gorak Shep to Lukla, others were on oxygen. You could see trekkers struggling to take a bite of their food.

I was so emotional because I was just so incredibly exhausted. You could sense that everyone was at their breaking point and had been pushed to their limits. Including me.

Tip: Don’t rush! Remember that you’re breathing in air with 50% oxygen. Many trekkers get excited as they’re so close to Everest Base Camp, but you still need to be careful. From what I saw, several people got sick and had to be put on oxygen AFTER they’d successfully reached EBC, perhaps this is because they’d taken it too fast.

Kala Patthar in Gorak Shep

Altitude: Gorak Shep (5 160m) – Kala Patar (5 643m) – Pheriche (4 370m).

Trekking time: 7 hours | 13 km.

Difficulty: This day is difficult, only because of Kala Patthar! The rest is easy as you’ll be going down the mountain to a lower altitude.

Highlight: Everything about the trek up to Kala Patthar. The 5 am wake-up call, the ice-cold temperatures, the steep trail, the incredible view!

Overview: The day starts with an early morning trek to Kala Patthar for the best views of Mount Everest. After returning to Gorak Shep, you’ll head back down to Pheriche.

Gorak Shep to Periche on your EBC itinerary

You can’t actually see Mount Everest from Everest Base Camp or Gorak Shep as Lhotse sits in front of it and blocks the view.

This is why people trek to Kala Patthar, which is a nearby viewpoint next to Gorak Shep.

Be prepared for a long and tiring day! Just when you thought it couldn’t get any tougher, day 10 of your Everest Base Camp trek will really push you to your limits.

Sitting at 5 643m, Kala Patthar is a small, rocky peak with a rewarding view of Mount Everest, Changtse, Lhotse, and Nuptse.

Your morning starts with a 5 am wake-up call as you prepare to hike to Kala Patthar. Some trekkers choose to skip this part of the itinerary because they’re too sick and just do not have the energy to make it to the top.

The main goal is Everest Base Camp, right? You’ve made it!

You don’t have to climb Kala Patthar. Listen to your body and if you’re not feeling well, don’t do it! I was incredibly slow, fatigued, and sluggish and only got about ¾ of the way to the top before our guide advised that we turn back.

If we didn’t, we’d fall behind on the day’s schedule.

After climbing Kalla Patthar, we arrived back at our tea house at Gorak Shep at about 9 am, had a quick breakfast then began our long trek past Lobuche and on to Pheriche.

My day hadn’t got off to a good start and I was feeling very weak hiking Kala Patthar, but as soon as we began our downhill climb, I regained my strength and felt like a different person!

Tip: If you’re feeling sick at Gorak Shep, make sure you monitor this but the moment you go to a lower altitude, you will feel stronger.

Tip: If you’re continuing to Island Peak, you can check out my Island Peak guide. To sum it up, from Gorak Shep, you’ll go to Dingboche ( and not Pheriche as this route goes) . After spending the night in Dingboche, you’ll go in a different direction to Chukhung and Island Peak Base Camp.

Last day of my Everest Base Camp itinerary in Nepal

Altitude: Pheriche (4 280m) to Namche Bazaar (3 440m).

Trekking time: 14km | 8 hours.

Difficulty: Easy but a long day of hiking.

This day (and the next) are particularly long and you’ll want to get off the mountain ASAP!

You’ll be running down from Pheriche to Namche Bazaar as it’s so much easier to breathe as the elevation decreases. You’ll also be craving a hot shower, clean clothes, a proper meal, and a warm bed.

Soon, you’ll hit the tree line once again, cross over suspension bridges, and pass scores of mules.

After every corner, you’ll think you’ve reached Namche Bazaar, but it’s further than you expect, and the trail seems to go on forever. On your way down you still have sections where you climb up and down (yes, more climbing), but there’s no altitude gain so who’s complaining!

You’ll pass Tengboche, which is home to the largest monastery in the Khumbu region and the village where most trekkers stop on their way up the mountain (But we chose a different route on this Everest Base Camp trek itinerary).

Namche Bazaar to Lukla

Altitude: Namche Bazaar (3 440m) – Lukla (2 860m).

Trekking time: 18 km | 8 hours.

Difficulty: Same as yesterday! A long day of hiking.

You’ve made it to the last day of your Everest Base Camp trek itinerary! Today you’ll retrace your steps from Day 1 and 2 (except this time you’ll cover the same distance in 1 day, and not 2!)

You’ll also see other trekkers ascending to EBC looking bright-eyed and bushy-tailed. If only they knew what was in store for them over the next few days! You’ll smile at them, and offer words of encouragement, but deep inside, you’ll just thanking your lucky stars that it’s them going up, and not you!

Enjoy your last lunch on the mountains in the village of Phakding before taking on the last section to Lukla. Spend the night in Lukla where you’ll celebrate with a delicious meal and a few cold beers!

Last day of your Everest Base Camp itinerary: Lukla to Kathmandu

Flight from Kathmandu to Lukla

On the last day, you’ll be ready to say goodbye to the mountains! Once again your flight isn’t guaranteed to leave on schedule so one last bit of patience is required.

After I landed in Kathmandu, I went straight to my hotel, had the best hot shower EVER, ordered takeaways, hopped into bed, and didn’t leave my room for 24 hours! Those 24 hours of doing nothing were absolutely incredible!

Pictures speak a thousand words! After going through my EBC trek itinerary, check out my photo diary with includes all the highlights of my trek to Everest Base Camp.

Is Everest Base Camp trek worth it

Absolutely – But it’s not easy! From the terrifying flight into Lukla to the long trekking days, freezing cold tea houses, weeks with no showers, dealing with altitude sickness, and all the aches and pains that come along with it – It’s brutal.

But the experience is incredible and you’ll gain memories that will last a lifetime!

Should you plan your Everest Base Camp Itinerary with a tour or not

Everest Base Camp trek itinerary for 12 days

This one’s debatable!

In 2014 I summited the highest mountain in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro . For this trek, you have to book a tour through an organized trekking company. I thought the same would apply to Everest Base Camp and wrongly assumed that attempting to conquer EBC independently was only for broke backpackers or highly experienced hikers.

I was wrong! You can definitely navigate the Everest region without a guide and many people do so.

However, I don’t regret booking through a trekking company, Mountain Monarch . Here’s why.

Why I booked my EBC trek with a tour group

Everest Base Camp and Island Peak Lunch Stop

Firstly, I added Island Peak to my Everest Base Camp itinerary. For this extra section of the trek, a guide is required. Whilst Everest Base Camp requires no technical climbing, Island Peak does and it’s intense.

If you’re up for the challenge, I highly recommend you add Island Peak to your Everest Base Camp tour. You can read about my climb to Island Peak here!

Secondly, I had previous experience with high altitude climbing and if it wasn’t for my skilled guide, I wouldn’t have made it to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. As with Kili, getting to Everest Base Camp is tough and reality is that it can be fatal. You need to pace yourself. Many people are put on oxygen and need assistance and those who trek independently don’t have immediate access to these emergency services.

And lastly, the fellow trekkers that I met on my Everest Base Camp tour were the best teammates anyone could ask for. I loved the support, the humor, the motivation, and having a small group of people who were there for me through thick and thin. As you get to the end of your Everest Base Camp trek, you’re going to need all the support you can get.

Final thoughts on how to plan a trek to Everest Base Camp

Trekking to Everest Base Camp is tough. Looking back, there are so many moments where I was thinking “ Why the F$%# did I sign up for this ” and “ With this money, I could’ve spent an extra 3 months backpacking instead of putting myself through this torture “.

But, challenging myself, my mind, my body – and crushing my goal and STILL going on to summit Island Peak – man, you cannot beat that feeling!

Are you planning a trip to Everest Base Camp? Looking for more information on how to get from Lukla to Everest Base Camp? Drop me a question in the comments section below!

Psst… Looking for epic adventures to add to your bucket list? Check out my other posts!

  • Complete Guide To Island Peak Climbing in Nepal
  • The Perfect Everest Base Camp Packing List
  • 10 Things You Need To Know For Your Kilimanjaro Trek
  • Everest Base Camp Trek Difficulty: 11 Key Things You Need To Know
  • Everest Base Camp Trek with Island Peak Climbing: My Highlights and Photo Diary

Everest Base Camp Trek Itinerary - Torn Tackies Travel Blog

Hi, I'm Carryn. I’m an adventure travel blogger trying to figure out my way through life by traveling and exploring. Join me as I share my travel guides and tips for life abroad. Find out more about me here .

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Everest base camp trek difficulty: 12 key things you need to know, 24 thoughts on “the ultimate everest base camp trek itinerary: how to get from lukla to everest base camp”.

Wow! Sounds like such an adventure. I loved reading your in depth post about your Everest base camp itinerary. It sounds like there is so much that goes into preparing but definitely sounds like you had the adventure of a lifetime.

Thanks Ann. It sure was an adventure I’ll never forget!

Ok, this post was epic – so much information I have to save it. Thanks for sharing!

Thanks Laura! Glad you found it helpful.

this is absolutely breathtaking! i honestly don’t know if I would ever be prepared to do this myself, but your day by day break down was really helpful!

Thanks Claire! Looking back at the photos I’m still in shock that I managed to get to Everest Base Camp!

Amazing. What a trek and journey for your mind, body and soul!

It was indeed!

This is epic! Im going in April and I’m so excited. Ive done Annapurna base Camp and loved it so I’m sure ill love this too!

Hi Emma, Good luck for your trek! I’d love to hear how EBC compares to Annapurna.

So interesting to read about your experience! I’m going to Nepal soon to do the Annapurna base camp and mardi Himal. They have a lower altitude but I’m still a bit nervous because of the altitude sickness 🙆🏼‍♀️

Hi Nina, I’m sure you’ll love it. Just take your time and don’t be afraid to walk super slow (like I did)!

WoW! This sounds like one amazing trip and one I’m sure that you will never forget! Really inspiring

Thanks Lori. EBC tops my bucket list so now I’m looking for the next adventure to conquer!

Wow! This sounded so intense! What an experience to say that you’ve done it.

It was tough, but everyone goes through a different experience. I thought about turning back so many times, but I’m so glad I stayed strong and kept going!

Wow! What an incredible experience, I don’t know if I’m ready for it but you definitely gave me some things to think about, thanks for sharing!!

Thanks Meghan!

Amazing!!! Wonderful recap! EBC isn’t easy! That was my first dance with altitude! Need to get back to do Island Peak!!!

Hey Bridget, Island Peak is incredible and I’m so glad I added it to my Everest Base Camp itinerary. Congrats on making it to base camp!

BADASS! I love that you mentioned a longer itinerary to acclimatize (is that the right word? lol) naturally and a way to get off the beaten path for this popular trek! I hope to make the Everest Base Camp Trek in the coming years and this is definitely a guide I will come back to help plan (: AND CONGRATS on killing it on this hike! So epic!

Hay Aaren, thanks for the kind message! I’m so stoked that I made it to base camp. And you can to! If you ever decided to trek to EBC, let me know!

Congrats on choosing the High Scenic Trail via Mong La and Phortse instead of the crowded Tengpoche route 95% of trekkers use. The best kept secret in Khumbu is finally leaking out!

About helicopter traffic: Google [helicopter rescue scam Nepal] and be educated. Multimillion dollar business now, thousands of EBC trips destroyed every year with this insurance fraud.

Hi Petrus, Agree – the less crowded route is far better!

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Journey Era

Everest Base Camp Trek: The Ultimate Guide

Jackson Groves

Posted on Last updated: August 10, 2023

Categories NEPAL , HIKING

Everest Base Camp Trek: The Ultimate Guide

Mt. Everest is the highest mountain in the world and trekking to the base camp is no easy feat either. It’s a journey through some of the most spectacular mountain views but also through a number of beautiful villages along the way. The Everest Base Camp Trek takes anywhere from 9 to 15 days depending on your route and itinerary but also how well you acclimatize.

travel her way everest base camp

In this article, I will cover everything you need to know about the logistics of the Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek but I will also share with you my experience on each day of the trek. A short journal entry with a vlog from my experiences from each day will give you an idea of what to expect and you can see how the journey went for me. After sharing my experience, I will then include all of the information you need to know in this complete guide about trekking to Everest Base Camp.

BEST TREKKING COMPANY IN NEPAL

a person standing on top of a mountain

Interested in trekking in Nepal or doing the Everest Base Camp Trek? I recommend booking your trek with Himalayan Masters , which is the company I use for all of my treks in Nepal. Use my code  JACKSON5  when you book to receive a 5% DISCOUNT .

Table of Contents

EVEREST BASE CAMP TREK DETAILS

  • Distance : 120 km round-trip from Lukla to Base Camp and back to Lukla (You will fly to Lukla from Kathmandu)
  • Days required : 12 -14 days
  • Total Incline : (Undulation) – 6015 m
  • Total Decline :(Undulation) – 5821 m
  • The highest point on the trek : 5640 m/18 500 ft, this is actually at Kala Patthar, which you will hike to in the morning after reaching Everest Base Camp. This is where you get the best views of Mount Everest.
  • Difficulty : It’s hard for an average hiker but the altitude is definitely more difficult to manage than the distance with several rest days and acclimatization days.
  • Permits : Your tour operator will take care of these but in case you do the trek independently it’s good to know that you will pay a Local Government fee and Sagarmatha National Park permit, which totaled together cost about $40-$50
  • Cost per day : This will depend on your tour price and whether you do the trek with a group, a porter, a guide, or independently. Somewhere between USD $40 (without flights) $60 per person per day with all meals, transport, and guides included.
  • Guide : It isn’t required but highly recommended. You can do the Everest Base Camp Trek in a few different ways such as by yourself with no guide, with an experienced guide or in a group with a guide.
  • Accommodation : Guest Houses, also known as Tea Houses along the way where you will sleep in a comfortable bed and have access to showers (extra charge) and restaurant facilities. Very comfortable accommodation and great after a long day of hiking.

travel her way everest base camp

TRY THE 3 BEST TREKS IN NEPAL

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Manaslu Circuit : My personal favorite 2-week trek through Tibetan villages and stunning scenery. Less crowded and more authentic.

Annapurna Circuit : The most beautiful & scenic 2-week trek in Nepal although can be crowded at times.

Everest Base Camp Trek : The most iconic 2-week route reaching the famous (EBC) Everest Base Camp at 5,300m.

BOOKING A GUIDE FOR THE EVEREST BASE CAMP TREK

The Everest Base Camp Trek doesn’t require a guide but it’s great to have a guide managing the logistics such as directions, tea-houses, distances, medical issues, and the overall organization. I’d say 90% of trekkers go with a guide. I highly recommend booking with Himalayan Masters which is one of the top trekking companies when it comes to the Everest Base Camp Trek. I’ve trekked many different routes in Nepal with them and I’m a big fan of their attention to detail.

The trek costs around $1500 USD with Himalayan Masters as of 2022 and includes all transfers, accommodation, meals, drinks, permits, and even the hotel stay before and after the trek at a high-quality hotel. I honestly had a great time on this trek and I can wholeheartedly recommend Himalayan Masters.

You can use my discount code ‘ JACKSON5 ‘ for 5% off the total price of your trek with Himalayan Masters which is a pretty handy saving.

Email: [email protected]

travel her way everest base camp

TOP 3 PLACES TO STAY IN KATHMANDU

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  • Ultimate Luxury: The Dwarika’s Hotel – Luxury, Spa-service, Pool
  • Best Value : Aloft Kathmandu Thamel – Swimming Pool, Gym & Great Restuarant
  • Budget Choice: Hotel Jampa is easily the top cheap hotel in Kathmandu

MY EXPERIENCE ON THE EVEREST BASE CAMP TREK

I’d like to share with you my experience and photos from my two weeks of trekking to Everest Base Camp. I hope you enjoy recounting the journey as much as I did.

Day One, Two & Three: Kathmandu to Lukla to Phak Ding to Namche

Day one began with an incredible flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. Unfortunately for me, I had come down with food poisoning the night before the trek so it was a rough start for me but I decided to battle on. The flight gives you incredible views of the Himalayas before you touch down at Lukla Airport, one of the most famous and scariest airports in the world. The landing strip is on a downwards slope and gives passengers a heart-in-mouth moment on take-off and landing.

After landing, we had a quick coffee and look around Lukla before making the short and relatively flat trek through the villages and forest to reach Phak Ding. Day one is a short trek but you have made your way up pretty high even just by landing at Lukla Airport so it is not a bad idea to take the first day easy, given that your biggest battle on this trek will be the altitude, not the distance or speed.

Day Two for me was actually a day of recovery in Phak Ding where I spent the entire day sick in the guesthouse. There is usually one day scheduled on your itinerary for sickness or rest day so I had used mine early!

Day three was a tough day as I was still recovering but we made the climb up to Namche, which is a winding climb through the forest and out above the tree line. Namche  Bazaar is located at an altitude of 3450m inside the Sagarmatha national park, a UNESCO world heritage site and it is actually known as the last frontier for trekkers and climbers before the trek to Everest Base Camp starts to get serious.

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Day Four & Five: Namche to Tengboche to Dingboche

Day four is a big day of climbing. Namche Bazaar is 3,440 meters and Tengboche is 3,860 meters but the constant undulation on the trail means you will climb almost 900 meters of incline throughout the day.

The day begins by following the valley wall as you get some great views of the Everest mountain range out in front. The path then heads down into the valley floor as you lose a lot of elevation. However, you will then cross over the river and gain all the elevation back as you approach Tengboche where you will stay for the night.

Expect to have views of the mighty mountain Ama Dablam as well as Lhotse, Nupste, and even the peak of Mount Everest. Interestingly this will be one of the best views you have of Mount Everest until you reach Kala Patthar in a few days’ time.

travel her way everest base camp

On day five of the Everest Base Camp trek, you say goodbye to the village of Tengboche and head towards Dingboche. It is a stunninng day as you voyage through the valley as the glacier river flows down below while snow-capped peaks loom in the distance. Along the trek, you will stop for tea in the village of Pangboche with lots of views of Ama Dablam mountain .

The elevation gain on day five is 700 meters and the entire journey will take about 5-6 hours at a moderate pace. Dingboche is 4,400 meters above sea level so it’s common to start to have a couple of symptoms of altitude sickness at this stage of the trek.

When you leave Tengboche, you begin a descent into the beautiful forest and can enjoy the shade as you pass through the village of Deboche. After you pass through Deboche, the trail gains some elevation and you will cross a suspension bridge, which guides you to the left side of the valley. Ama Dablam is still in view as you navigate the steep sections of the incline.

travel her way everest base camp

Day Six & Seven: Chuukhung Ri Acclimitization and Dingboche to Lobuche

Day six was an acclimatization day up to Chukhung Ri viewpoint, which was actually one of my favorite days. Because we would stay a second night in Dingboche, we left our bags in the tea house and did the climb up and down Chukhung Ri to help our bodies adjust to the altitude. The idea is to hike high and sleep low, which helps the body adapt.

Chukhung Ri is actually at 5500 meters, which is more than 1000 meters above Dingboche. This is a steep climb and you don’t need to go all the way to the summit. However, with spectacular views, isolation from other hikers, and a good chance to help your body adapt to the altitude, it’s a great day excursion with incredible scenery.

travel her way everest base camp

On day seven of the Everest Base Camp trek, we hiked from Dingboche to Lobuche, which is actually the second-highest village on the entire trail. Today is also the first time we will see the Khumba Glacier, which is one of the highlights of the trip.

The total elevation change for day seven is 500 meters in altitude but you will climb 600m in total for the day taking into account a few downhill sections on the trail. It’s a shorter day taking just four hours to reach Lobuche from Dingboche.

travel her way everest base camp

Day Eight: Lobuche to Gorak Shep to Everest Base Camp

On day eight of the Everest Base Camp trek, it is finally time to reach Everest Base Camp. From Lobuche your first trek to Gorak Shep, which is the highest village you sleep at throughout the trek.

Gorak Shep is a small village, and it’s the closest to Everest Base Camp is also the closest village to Everest Base Camp. Basically, you will trek to Gorak Shep, have an early lunch, and drop off your bag before doing the round-trip trek to explore Everest Base Camp. Then you will return to Gorak Shep where you will stay the night before heading to the nearby Kala Patthar in the morning.

The journey from Lobuche to Gorak Shep is along a rocky path, which slowly gains elevation as you walk next to the Khumbu Glacier. From Gorak Shep to Base camp, you will reach an altitude of 5,364m, which won’t be the highest on the trek as you will go higher the next morning at Kala Patthar.

When you leave Gorak Shep you walk next to the Khumbu Glacier with the Everest Mountain Range looming behind. The glacier is covered in dust and rocks due to the sediments, which have been falling from the surrounding peaks over the last years.

The trail continues alongside the glacier until you reach Everest Base Camp. It’s interesting because you actually can’t see Mount Everest from the base camp, which surprised me but the surrounding peaks are still very impressive and dramatic. Depending on if you come during the climbing season or off-season will alter how the base camp looks. I visited in the low season so there were no tents set up and it was pretty barren.

The trail continues past some Sherpa prayer flags as the rocky terrain leads you towards the famous Everest Base Camp rock, which is covered in hundreds of prayer flags. We’ve made it!

travel her way everest base camp

Day Nine: Kala Patthar

The highlight of the Everest Base Camp trek was the climb up to Kalapathar (also spelled out as Kala Patthar). It’s a 5,540-meter peak, which looms over the small village of Gorak Shep where you have just spent the night. It’s worth the freezing wake-up call in the morning as it is one of the best spots in Sagarmatha National Park to take in the views of Mount Everest.

It’s only a 3-kilometer round-trip trek from Gorak Shep with 300 meters of incline but at such high altitude, it can be quite difficult. I suggest starting 1.5-2 hours before sunrise so you are at the summit when the morning glow begins. After enjoying the sunrise with epic views of the cloud-filled valley and Mount Everest, we began the trek back down to Lukla.

It would take us another two days to reach Lukla, which is less than normal but going down is much easier.

travel her way everest base camp

Day Ten & Eleven: Heading back down

Heading back down is now at the pace of your choosing. We were keen to get back to Kathmandu so we took just two days to head back down the mountain. With altitude sickness no longer an issue, you can really make some good time.

If you are ahead of schedule you can keep going to the next village as there are no pre-made bookings. Heading down is a great feeling as you have accomplished reaching the base camp and you can now just breathe in the mountain air and enjoy the descent.

EVEREST BASE CAMP TREK: THE ULTIMATE GUIDE

In this section of the blog post, I will share with you the logistics and everything you need to know about trekking to Everest Base Camp.

HOW TO TREK TO EVEREST BASE CAMP

You have a few different options depending on your experience and requirements:

  • Book a package through an agency to join a tour group
  • Do the trek independently (not with an agency) but still hire a guide and/or porter
  • Do the Everest Base Camp Trek entirely independently

If you are alone and don’t want to do the trek independently then it is a great idea to join a group. There are lots of free time and chill moments at the teahouses to play cards and chat with your group.

Doing it entirely independently means you are in charge of all the logistics and it can be quite stressful if you aren’t experienced at managing all flights, maps, costs, negotiations, food, language barriers, first-aid and more.

BOOKING AN EVEREST BASE CAMP TREK IN ADVANCE

These are the most popular routes and are organized by the top tour companies who have a global reputation.

The Everest Base Camp Trek doesn’t require a guide but it’s great to have a guide managing the logistics such as directions, tea-houses, distances, medical issues, and the overall organization. I’d say 90% of trekkers go with a guide.

I highly recommend booking with Himalayan Masters which is one of the top trekking companies when it comes to the Everest Base Camp Trek. I’ve trekked many different routes in Nepal with them and I’m a big fan of their attention to detail.

travel her way everest base camp

CHOOSING THE RIGHT TOUR AND A GUIDE

Trekking to Everest Base Camp can be done without a guide although I suggest hiring one. Here are 3 reasons why:

  • Directions : The route isn’t incredibly hard to follow but there are many twists and turns I would have missed had I not had a guide. The route is available on many maps and map applications but it isn’t a clear trail throughout and some previous experience following a trail in a foreign country would be necessary.
  • A guide is relatively cheap to hire : Included in your trekking package will be a qualified guide. However, in your package is also meals, accommodation, flights, etc. The guide him or herself will only cost $10-15 per day.
  • When things go wrong : My guide helped me through food poisoning, altitude sickness and was as much a nurse as a guide. I rarely get sick at normal heights but altitude sickness is uncontrollable. I am pretty fit and it still smashed me hard. You can go it alone and be fine but it’s comforting to have a guide there when you come into trouble, especially with altitude sickness. My guide had seen it all before so his calm made me feel better about feeling sick for four days straight.

If you think you will get a guide like the majority of people on the Everest Base Camp, you have a lot of options and things to consider. Pictured below is my guide, Lapsang, who was a legend and someone who became a good friend. When I left Nepal he waited at the bus stop for two hours with me and gave me a Nepali scarf as a gift.

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I suggest going with a small group of friends. We saw a few big groups and it looked like a Contiki tour compared to the experience I had with just myself and my guide. Only get a porter if you really need it. You should be able to carry your bag for 4-5 hours of trekking each day.

My guide, Lapsang Tamang, had done the trek multiple times as a porter and now many times a guide. He said he has lost count but somewhere over 20 times, he has been hiking the Everest Base Camp Trek. The best thing to do is to contact my guide and arrange to meet him first in Kathmandu so you can chat and decide if you want to go ahead. You will be together for 12 days after all!

You can directly contact my guide Lapsang by emailing him here: [email protected]

Lapsang is an awesome guy and I had too many chai tea hangouts with him before and after the trip. Lapsang and I became friends during the trip and afterward, we went bungee jumping, cooked Dal Bhat at his apartment, and visited Swayambunath Temple.

travel her way everest base camp

EVEREST BASE CAMP PACKING LIST

I had no winter clothes or even trekking shoes before getting to Kathmandu and bought it all for under $200 brand new (Likely fake North Face). But just as a guide you can get all the gear new for under $200. Bargaining/second hand etc. may help you get it a bit cheaper but this was one time I didn’t want to be so tight with money then freeze my ass off later on top of a mountain.

Keep in mind you won’t be doing any washing. Clothes that dry quickly and are lightweight are key. I showered once… Here is a list of what I took:

  • 2 pairs of pants that rip off into shorts ($15 each in Kathmandu) (Super Safari style but actually handy in this situation.)
  • 2 long sleeve quick-dry material shirts ($10 each in Kathmandu)
  • 5 Pairs of Thermal North Face socks ($2-3 per pair in Kathmandu)
  • 1 Fleece pants and sweater. ($25 for top and bottom in Kathmandu)
  • 1 Thermal Lycra long sleeve and pants ($20 in Kathmandu)
  • 5-6 pairs of quick-dry underwear
  • 1 huge waterproof down jacket (Rented for $1 a day in Kathmandu)
  • Beanie ($1 in Kathmandu)
  • Neck Buff ($2 in Kathmandu)
  • Gloves ($5 in Kathmandu)
  • Water Purification pills and 1L bottle
  • Camera gear and electronics (Not necessary but up to you. Obviously I carried a lot)

All of this should fit into a backpack no bigger than 50L and be less than 15kg. I used my 60L backpacking bag because I didn’t want to buy a new bag for a two-week trek. It worked out fine and weighed about 13kg including all of my lenses, chargers, and power banks.

What are my favorite pieces of trekking gear?

There are six pieces of gear that I simply never forget when I go trekking. These are five items that I using right now and this list gets updated every year! Here are my trekking essentials.

  • Arcteryx BETA AR Rain Jacket : This is my go-to rain jacket. It’s super light, folds down into a tiny ball, and protects brilliantly in a storm. This one never leaves my backpack.
  • Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Hiking Boots : For the best ankle support, waterproofing, and durable exterior I’m a fan of tough but light hiking boots like these Salomons for my adventures.
  • Black Diamond Head Torch : I can’t tell you how many times, I’ve arrived back from a hike unexpectedly late. I always keep this lightweight but strong headtorch in my bag for the unexpected.
  • Darn Tough Socks : These are the most comfortable hiking socks I’ve ever worn and last for years. They also have a lifetime warranty and you just send them in with a hole and they replace it no questions asked.
  • Osprey Atmos AG 65L Backpack : I’ve never had a more comfortable 65L pack than this one. I got it in the Navy Blue and have trekked with it through many a mountain.
  • Bl ack Diamond Trekking Poles : They might feel weird at first, but on a long trek with incline and decline you’ll begin to love these.
  • Grayl GeoPress Water Filter Bottle : I’ve used this for three years. It filters your water with one press and you can drink directly from it. Never buy a plastic water bottle again!

travel her way everest base camp

EVEREST BASE CAMP TREK COST

I paid $900 USD for my package all the way back in 2016 but you can expect to pay anywhere from $1400 to $2500 these days.

What’s included in the package for trekking to Everest Base Camp:

  • Taxi from Thamel to Kathmandu Airport
  • Flights from Kathmandu Airport to Lukla Airport
  • Flights from Lukla Airport to Kathmandu Airport (Regular price $320 round trip)
  • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner from the guesthouses you are staying at. I could pick anything on the menu, which had western options or Nepali options. You can eat pancakes, pizza, and burgers or you can go for the 24-hr Nepali Power Dal Bhat. I could also choose any hot drink with each meal.
  • Your guide throughout the trip.

What’s not included:

  • Water. You can buy bottled water like me if you are playing it safe. It is $1 per bottle at a lower elevation and $3 per bottle at the highest elevation. Or lots of people use purification tablets and they seemed to be fine.
  • Electricity

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EVEREST BASE CAMP TREK: WIFI/ELECTRICITY AVAILABILITY.

Wifi: Costs anywhere from $3 to $10 to use wifi at the guesthouses. Buy a Ncell Sim before you go. Ncell works at 50% of the guesthouses. Electricity:  You will have to pay anywhere from $2 at low elevation to $8 at high elevation to charge your power banks, cameras, and phones. The key is to get a fat power bank. Pay to charge that then charge everything from your power bank. My power bank lets me charge my phone and four camera batteries before it would be done.

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EVEREST BASE CAMP TREK: BEST TIME OF YEAR

This is an interesting question. Do you want snow, reliable weather or to get away from crazy crowds?

February to May – Peak season, clear bright days, very busy trails, lots of people attempting Everest ascent June to August – Monsoon season, no crowds and empty guesthouses September to October – Most stable and clear weather, trails are quite busy November to January – Coldest period, can reach -25, some routes closed

I trekked in the first week of June and was lucky to escape the rain. I didn’t get wet once. Normally it rained in the afternoon or at night if at all but we trekked in the morning and usually only heard the rain as we slept. The trails were open and some days we didn’t even see anyone.

My guide showed me a photo of Namche on a busy morning and I couldn’t believe it. The path looked like the start of a marathon. After seeing that I was so glad to have gone in the off-season.

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EVEREST BASE CAMP TREK TEMPERATURE

During June when I trekked it was sunny in the days and I actually wore shorts every day. However as I mentioned above about when the best time to be trekking to Everest Base Camp is, it can get very cold at high elevations during November to January (-20 to-30)

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EVEREST BASE CAMP TREK DIFFICULTY

Trekking to Everest Base Camp takes some serious effort. But do you need to be in great shape to complete the journey? The simple answer is NO.

You can go at a slow pace, your own pace, and still make it to Everest Base Camp. In fact, going slow will help you to acclimatize better. I am all about speed but this is not a race. Some days we only trekked for just over three hours but we gained 500m in altitude so we rested for a day and then went again in the morning.

Having said all of that you should be able to walk 10-15 km in a day. Be able to walk up intense inclines for at least an hour. Be able to carry a bag while doing all of this unless you plan to hire a porter.

It’s hard to measure if you are ready. It isn’t like a marathon or anything else you have ever done most probably. I didn’t train at all and was fine. I’m in pretty good shape and played sport my whole life. There were people on the trail who were overweight and going incredibly slow but they were right there with us at base camp to celebrate the achievement.

EVEREST BASE CAMP ALTITUDE

The base camp is 17,600 ft or 5,380m. However, you will probably also trek to Kala Patthar, which looks over the base camp. Kala Patthara is 5,644m high.

travel her way everest base camp

EVEREST BASE CAMP TREK DISTANCE

The distance from Lukla the first town to Everest Base Camp is 38.58 miles or 62 kilometers. Most people take 8-9 days trekking to Everest Base Camp and 3-4 days trekking back to Lukla. It took 8 days to trek to Base camp and two days to trek out.

EVEREST BASE CAMP ITINERARY

Your itinerary will vary depending on your speed and your guide. However, most people follow a somewhat similar trail and timeline. This was my timeline. Note that I spent one extra day in Phak Ding due to sickness. Most people spend that extra day in Namche.

  • Day 1.  Kathmandu flight to Lukla Lukla to Phak Ding (3-4 hrs)
  • Day 2. Phak Ding rest day (sickness)
  • Day 3.  Phak Ding to Namche (5 hrs)
  • Day 4.  Namche to Tenboche (4 hrs)
  • Day 5.  Tenboche to Dinboche (3 hrs)
  • Day 6.  Dinboche to Chukhung Ri (2.5 hrs) Chukhung Ri back to Dinboche (1.5 hrs) (Acclimatization day)
  • Day 7.  Dinboche to Lobuche (3 hrs)
  • Day 8.  Lobuche to Gorak Shep (2 hrs) Gorak Shep to Everest Base Camp (1.5 hrs) Everest Base Camp to Gorak Shep (1.5 hrs)
  • Day 9.  Gorak Shep to Kala Patthara (2 hrs) Kala Patthara to Gorak Shep (1 hr) Gorak Shep to Tenboche (7hrs)
  • Day 10.  Tenboche to Lukla (8 hrs)

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I hope you enjoyed my guide to the Everest Base Camp Trek and you have a great adventure.

HAVE YOU READ MY OTHER NEPAL BLOGS?

I’ve been lucky enough to have many awesome adventures in Nepal, which you can check out below where I’ve listed some of my favorite blog poss from Nepal.

  • The Most Iconic route: Everest Base Camp Trek
  • The Most Scenic Route: Annapurna Circuit Trek
  • My Favorite Trek in Nepal: Manaslu Circuit Trek
  • An Easy Nepal Trek: Langtang Valley Trek
  • A great beginner peak: Island Peak Climb (6,165m)
  • My Favorite Climb in Nepal: Climbing Ama Dablam (6,812m)
  • My first 8000er: Climbing Manaslu (8,163m)
  • My toughest climb in Nepal: Climbing Makalu (8,463m)
  • Where to stay: 16 Best Places to Stay in Kathmandu

a group of people sitting on top of a snow covered mountain

Tuesday 31st of October 2023

Sunday 17th of September 2023

So much informative articles which helps people to trek Everest Base Camp Trek

Inge Winkler

Saturday 3rd of June 2023

Hello, thank you for posting all the great infos, this will be very helpful for us. Could you please update me if the requirement of a Professional Guide is in place now or is there a way around it. Thank you so much in advance. Happy Trails, Inge

Sunday 18th of June 2023

I believe you need a guide now to trek anything above 3000m

Monday 21st of November 2022

Thanks for sharing such an adventurous trip experience with us. I read your blog. It feels like I was personally enjoying this trip.

Friday 12th of August 2022

Hi Jackson,

This was a helpful and informative guide. Kudos!

I had a small suggestion: You could have a small sections box right in the beginning and link each sub-section directly to the relevant content below, for ease of navigation!

travel her way everest base camp

The Ultimate Everest Base Camp Trek Guide

travel her way everest base camp

Everest Base Camp Trek is a  remarkable journey to the foot of the Mighty Everest  which has managed to boggle and captivate the minds of thrill seekers all across the world.

Admit it – you’ve always dreamt of climbing Mount Everest. Who wouldn’t want to brag about having been at the top of the highest mountain on Earth?

Mount Everest has captivated brave guys and gals since the 1920s. The ventures of legends such as George Mallory, Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay put the mighty mountain on the map; thousands have followed, making huge sacrifices – lots with their lives – in their own attempts to the summit.

But today, the  Everest Base Camp Trek has actually become a possible goal for people from all walks of life . In 2012, between 35,000 and 37,000 people trekked in the Everest area. And trust me, I dream of climbing it too.

Aside from the awesome scenery, travellers to the region experience special Sherpa culture by seeing abbeys and museums along the way. Days are filled with walking for the pure pleasure of it, past vibrant prayer wheels and across swing bridges, while nights are rewarded with hot food and discussion with like-minded people around the dining-room fire.

Thamserku

Everest Base Camp Trek, Nepal

Namche Trek, Nepal

Namche Trek, Nepal

Everest Base Camp Trekking

Mt Everest Base Camp Trek  is designed to get real close–up to see Sagarmatha, literally meaning ‘The Head of Earth or Sea’, internationally known as Mount Everest. 

To reach this part of the Himalayas in Nepal within a short period of time, we have devised this short trekking tour itinerary to hike to Everest Base Camp, which directly starts and ends at Lukla.

The Beginning of the Everest Base Camp Trek

The Mt Everest Base Camp trek, a very world famous mountain trek, starts after 35 minutes of a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. We follow the Dudh Kosi River valley which climbs up to the Sherpa capital of Namche, a bustling market that is a junction for trekkers, the local Sherpa and Expeditions en route to the mighty Mt. Everest. All along this part of the trail, villages are interspersed with magnificent forests of rhododendron, magnolia and giant firs. In both the early autumn and late spring, the flowers on this portion of the trek make it the kind of walk you will remember for a long, long time.

Mesmerizing View of Everest from Tengboche Monastery

From Namche, we trek along a high traversing path where we have our first good views of Everest and then head towards Tengboche Monastery, which is a 2 hour climb. The monastery stands at the height of 3870m in a clearing surrounded by dwarf firs and rhododendrons where Mani Rimdu Festival is held in October/November full moon days. The monastery is structurally located on a ridge top with commanding views of the Everest landscape. The view from this spot, seen to best advantage in the morning, is absolutely mesmerizing and stunning and is rightly deemed to be one of the most magnificent in the world.

Trekking Kala Patthar

We also have the opportunity to trek Kala Patthar (5,554m) from where we can get some awesome views of the Himalayan giants which literally numb your senses with breathless admiration; and makes up for the lung-bursting climb that took you up there. You soon realize it was absolutely worth it. This also includes fantastic views of the south west face of the colossal Mt. Everest. We then trek down to Everest Base Camp at the foot of the Khumbu ice fall before finally making our way back down to Lukla. 

Trekking Mount Everest, Nepal

Trekking Mount Everest, Nepal

Trekking Mount Everest, Nepal

Everest Base Camp Trek Tours

There are many tour operators ( G Adventures and GetYourGuide ) who organizes Mount Everest trips with local expert guide and porters. Basically 11 /11 days are possible, but I would like to recommend you 13 days. It will be better to have a couple of days extra to get back to Kathmandu, in case of a delay of your flight due to weather.

Example of a 13 day Everest Base Camp trek itinerary:

Day : Arrival & trekking preparation day in Kathmandu.

Day 01 : Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,800m) -30 munities, trek to Phakding (2,640m) -3 to 4 hours

Day 02 : Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,430m) -5 to 6 hours

Day 03 : Acclimatization in Namche Bazaar and visit Khumjung Village (3,790m)

Day 04 : Namche Bazaar to Tyangboche (3,867m) -5 to 6 hours

Day 05 : Tyangboche to Dingboche (4,300m) -5 to 6 hours

Day 06 : Acclimatization day at Dingboche

Day 07 : Dingboche to Lobuche (4,930m) -5 to 6 hours

Day 08 : Lobuche to Gorakshep (5,140m) – 3 hours & Everest Base Camp (5,364m) -2 to 3 hours

Day 09 : Gorakshep to Kalapater (5,550m) -2 hours & Stroll back to Pheriche (4,240m) -5 to 6 hours

Day 10 : Pheriche to Tyangboche (3867m) – 4 to 5 hours

Day 11 : Tyangboche to Namche Bazaar (3430m) – 4 to 5 hours

Day 12 : Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,800m) – 6 to 7 hours

Day 13 : Fly back to Kathmandu. Then final Departure to your Destination.

Note:  (if you wish to make the changes during treks, you can also discuss about this with your Guide. The itinerary should be quite flexible.)

Things that are usually included

  • Three times meals (breakfast, Lunch, Dinner), tea coffee in a cup each meal & accommodation.
  • Trekking permit for Sagarmatha National Park.
  • TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) Card for the Trekking.
  • Air ticket Kathmandu to Lukla and Lukla to Kathmandu & Airport Tax.
  • Trekking equipments (down jackets, slipping bag etc.) during the trekking in you needed.
  • Two nights’ accommodation at Kathmandu.
  • Long range experience friendly & helpful a Guide.
  • Helpful & strong a porter.
  • A Guide and porter salary, accommodation, meals, all transportation.
  • Guide and potter insurance for the happy journey.
  • Other fee and taxes if necessary.

Things that are often not included

  • All kind of beverage including mineral water, Phone calls, laundry, hot shower during Trek.
  • Clients travel insurance and evacuation (compulsory).
  • If incase, flight cancel and charter helicopter or plane.
  • Tipping for Guide and Porters.
  • Personal expenses like Shopping, souvenirs or gift. Personal mountaineering gears.
  • Optional trips and sightseeing if extend.
  • International airfare, airport departure tax and Visa fee.
  • Things which not mention above our services.

Everest sunset from Kalapat

Everest sunset from Kalapat

Everest Base Camp Trek tour

Everest Base Camp Trek tour

Everest Base Camp Trek tour

Tips for doing the Everest Base Camp Trek

Here are some tips to help you have the most unforgettable experience with your Everest Base Camp Trek.

1. Go during a friendly season

The best times are from  March to May  and from  September to December.  It gets hot between May and August, and December reaches below-zero temperatures.

2. Get in shape before the trek

This is the most essential if you want to make your Everest Base Camp Trek a successful one. Though you may not need any previous technical climbing experience, you still need to be physically fit enough to bear the continuous strain in the high altitudes. Absolutely nothing can really prepare you for the trek’s extreme hillsides and altitude of approximately 5 545m. But, do not be put off — individuals with average physical fitness levels can do this expedition. Slow and steady is what ensures a successful and enjoyable trek.

You are advised to start training approximately 3 to 4 months prior to the trekking.  Prepare with cardiovascular training many times a week : biking, swimming, hillside climbing and strolling. Go for a five-hour walk at least once a week. Find hillsides or tall stairs and repeatedly walk up and down on them.

3. Get a competent guide

During the trek, people sometimes die or disappear due to inexperience and not having a guide. In June 2012, some lone travelers disappeared and a Belgian trekker died in the Langtang area.

So while it’s possible to solo trek, it’s not recommended. It’s best to  hire a trustworthy and competent guide . They will arrange everything for you, help you stay safe, enjoy your trek, and learn much about the local culture and natural environment.

Tips for trekking Mount Everest, Nepal

4. Get the proper kits

Everest base camp trek is a trip of a lifetime. You need to prepare well for it. But don’t go overboard. Aim for loads of between for 10kg and 15kg. Get a fleece coat, down jacket and thermal underwear, as the Himalaya gets cold above 3000m at any time of the year.

Several pieces of gear are essential for your own safety in the higher altitudes of the Everest Base Camp Trek. Make a checklist of these items and identify whether or not you need to carry all of these from your native place to Nepal. Never compromise on the footwear when you are walking several hours a day in difficult terrain. A pair of good, tough and waterproof trekking boots will save you from many problems that you may encounter during the trekking expedition. A good down jacket with at least  650 fill  down is a must. Have a  platypus water carrier  and a  Nalgene  styled bottle along with a sun hat, good quality sunglasses among other things.

Also, take 2 pairs of long trousers, and two or three synthetic fabrics T-shirts. Also, get boots, trekking socks, and sneakers or shoes for nights. A good sleeping bag (rated to -20 ° C/0 ° F) is necessary; if it’s winter season, a thermal liner makes it extra warm. You will also need a raincoat, gloves, woollen hat, sunhat and polarized sunglasses . Also go with travel-size toiletries, including a good sunscreen, lip balm, travel towel and tissues.

5. Prepare for first aid

Altitude sickness can affect any person — even the very healthy. Look for indicators of altitude sickness: signs include headaches, dizziness, insomnia, and loss of hunger and shortness of breath. Be well aware of the dangers of climbing Mount Everest .

6. Mental Endurance

Besides the physical training and preparation you also need to be mentally prepared for living life in the mountains for some days . The adaptation to the difficult life in the hills and mountains needs enduring mental strength. Prepare yourself for what may come ahead in your trekking expedition.

Accommodation in the teahouses run by the Sherpas may not be as decent when compared to the accommodation in your country of origin. Be prepared not to have facilities like a western-style toilet. Be prepared to use the great outdoors at times or use bottles to pee in during your trek. Be prepared for these small things and have moderate expectation in terms of physical facilities . However, the display of natural wonders will be beyond your expectation throughout the Everest Base Camp Trek ,  making the inconveniences well worth it.

7. Arrival Info

Get all the necessary information related to travel, to and from Nepal. Be informed of the visa requirements for Nepal  and other necessary formalities. Working on this matter with the travel agency might be a good idea as they can give you some practical information regarding your travel arrangement as per your need. Independent trekking may not be a good idea, especially if you are a novice trekker.

8. Stay Hydrated Always

This is the other vital life saving tip in the high altitudes of the Everest region. At higher altitudes the  rate of dehydration is quicker than at sea level.  Fill up the bottles before you begin the day and make sure that the water is either boiled or treated with proper water purification tablets. Make sure you monitor your hydration levels on a regular basis to make sure your trekking experience a positive one. The imbalance in the hydration level of your body can create problems for you especially when you are at higher altitudes and eventually limit the chances of your success.

9. Have a Proper Medical Kit

This saves you a lot of problems especially if you are prone to health related problems, ranging from mild headache to altitude sickness. A mild headache is not a big issue up there. Have other medicines that counter the altitude sickness or stomach related problems. To combat the mild headaches you have to listen to Tip 4. Drink plenty of water in the mountains. Another way to combat such headache is to add a  Disprin  to the water every morning. This will help to slightly thin out your blood and thus reduce the headache due to the thickening of the blood at higher altitudes.

10. Slow and Steady Completes the Trek!

Take your time when it comes to a challenging trekking experience like that of the Everest Base Camp Trek. This is not a marathon or a race for some prize money. Listen to your body and follow the rules as conveyed by your trekking guide. Acclimatize well in the higher altitudes. All the research suggests that acclimatization is needed at 3,500m / 11, 500ft.  Namche Bazaar  (3440m) is one of the best acclimatization spots along the EBC trekking trail. Pay close attention to the schedule to make sure the itinerary gives proper time for acclimatization. Also, make sure that the trekking schedule is flexible.

11. Adapt to Local Culture

Respect the local culture, tradition and lifestyle when you are in the Everest region. Circumambulating in a clockwise direction or putting your shoes or slippers outside the holy shrines are some of the cultural values that should be paid attention. Make sure your clothing style and other habits don’t offend the locals. It is advised that you pay proper attention to these small details so as to get good cooperation from the locals and learn more about the rich cultural legacy these inhabitants carry from their past.  Making compromises with these issues for few days to help you create memories for the rest of your life.

Everest Base Camp Trek, Nepal

12. Stay Out of the Sun When Possible

The level of protection you have from the UV rays decreases with the increasing altitude. Some days on the trek might be tough due to the brutal radiation from the solar rays. So it is advised that you remain out of the sun whenever possible to minimize the wrinkles you have on your skin, the chances of developing skin cancer and to reduce the impact of dehydration caused due to the sunburn.

13. Enjoy It!

This is the most common advice given by experienced people. You are on vacation so relax and enjoy yourself. On a trekking trip like the Everest Base Camp, you try hard to successfully complete an adventurous expedition and create memories. This trekking adventure gives you a lot of spare time so that you can go slow and live each and every moment of the trip. Except a few longer trekking days you can always find time to rest, enjoy and laugh with your fellow trekkers. Have an open and positive mind while interacting with the locals. Keep in mind that these people are there to make your adventure a successful one despite all the cultural differences. Be focused, calm, open minded and positive!

The below video from Blank Canvas Voyage shows the experience of doing the Everest Base Camp Trek with no guides or porters. Yes – they trekked to Everest Base Camp Independently !

Frequently Asked Questions About The Everest Base Camp Trek

If you are planning to embark on the Everest Base Camp trek sometime in the near future, we are sure that you will have plenty of questions about what to bring and what to expect.

We have compiled this handy list of frequently asked questions in the hopes of providing you with some of the answers that you seek.

What is the best season to plan a Everest Base Camp trek?

The best time to trek is in the pre-monsoon season (which occurs in March, April and May) and the post-monsoon season (which occurs in September, October and November). You can choose to travel at other times of the year, just be aware that rain might be an issue.

Is there an age limit for this kind of trek?

Whilst there is no minimum or maximum age for climbing to Base Camp, you will need to ensure that you are in good physical shape and have a positive attitude. As such, young children and the elderly often do not meet the fitness requirements of the endeavour.

What sorts of meals can I expect to enjoy?

When dining at teahouses, you will be served meals that consist of rice, pasta or potato with vegetables and egg, chicken or meat dishes. Some of the breakfast foods you might enjoy include porridge, muesli and toast with peanut butter or honey to spread.

What sorts of clothing should I wear?

You can basically wear whatever you want, but we recommend warm clothing (such as a down jacket, thermal underwear, comfortable pants, t-shirts, fleece, a windproof jacket, hats, scarves and gloves). If you would prefer, you can purchase these items when arriving.

What problems can arise due to altitude?

Altitude sickness (known as Acute Mountain Sickness or AMS) can start to occur when you reach 3600 meters and higher. To ensure that you don’t become a victim to AMS, you will need to trek slower and at a gradual pace to help acclimatise your body.

Is there any communication available?

You will find landline telephones in most of the villages along your route and mobile phone service is available, but reception will vary from location to location. Internet can be find in a few of the villages, but it can be quite expensive. All guides carry mobile phones.

What kind of weather should I expect?

Unfortunately, weather in the mountains is notoriously difficult to predict but you can rest assured that nights are generally colder than days. The coldest time of year is definitely winter (which occurs in December, January and February) and you can expect snowfall.

Will I have access to clean drinking water?

Lodges will serve bottled, boiled and filtered water that is generally safe to drink (although you will have to pay extra for it). Even so, we encourage all trekkers to use iodine and other water purifying agents to ensure that the water is clean.

Prayers on the Everest trek, Nepal

Prayers on the Everest trek, Nepal

Mt Amadablem, Nepal

Mt Amadablem, Nepal

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Everest Base Camp Trek – Ultimate Guide For 2024

Written By: The Planet D

Adventure Travel , Nepal

Updated On: January 5, 2024

Trekking to Everest Base Camp is different than other treks around the world. Nowhere else on earth will you experience trekking as you do in Nepal and nowhere quite compares to the majesty of the Himalayas. Villages dot the landscape filled with restaurants, markets, bazaars, and tea houses (mini-hotels) where you can stop for lunch, buy supplies, and have a piece of apple pie while surrounded by the highest mountains in the world.

Every hundred meters or so there is a hotel, restaurant, or cluster of buildings making up a small village. The villages are stunning reminding us of something out of the Swiss Alps on steroids. Well-built lodges and brick homes line the trail with the magnificent setting of the Himalayas draped in the back.

Table of Contents

Trekking to Everest Base Camp

What is it like trekking to Everest Base Camp in Nepal? The EBC Trek is life-changing, it’s exhilarating, and it is challenging. We share everything you need to know from planning your trek to Everest to packing for your trip. This guide to the Everest Base Camp Trek breaks down each day. So sit back and take a journey with us through Nepal’s legendary Sagarmatha National Park.

Everest Base Camp Trek Itinerary

On the map, the Everest Base Camp trekking route distances look fairly easy to hike from village to village through the Khumbu Valley. Eight days may seem like it would be more than enough time to cover a mere 63 km (39 miles) one way, (128 km return) but with several sustained days in a row above 4000 meters (13,000 feet), the walk is slow and steady.

It is important not to push too fast to avoid altitude sickness which is a very real possibility. When trekking to Everest base camp, expect to hike anywhere from 7 – 17 km (4.5 – 10 miles) per day with the entire trek taking 12 – 14 days.

Hiring a Guide for the EBC Trek – Mandatory

In April 1, 2023, Nepal has banned solo trekking. Foreigners must hire a guide for treks in high-altitude trekking regions of national parks. According to the Kathmandu Post in March “ solo or independent trekkers have to mandatorily hire a guide or a porter before setting off to Nepal’s mountains.” However, after an updated article in the Kathmandu Post, it seems that the Everest Region is an exception. Before booking, we would check with local companies and authorities as rules are constantly changing.

Book Locally

Many people book ahead of time with a tour company located outside of Nepal such as Intrepid Travel or GAdventures, but we hired locally and it saved a lot of money.

Plus, you know your money is going directly to the local economy and you have a more intimate experience by trekking with a local guide. We spent a couple of days in Kathmandu looking for a guide to Everest and found Simrik Real Nepa l owned by Kathmandu resident Dipendra Simkhada.

Dipendra planned the entire trip for us, and all we had to do was wait for him to pick us up at our guesthouse in Kathmandu to take us to the airport to board our Tara Air flight to Lukla Airport. Book your Trek to Everest Base Camp with Simrik Real Nepal – A Locally owned and operated tour company, Simrik is located in Kathmandu.

Kathmandu – The Hub of Nepal Treks

We spent a few days in Kathmandu picking up supplies and doing some sightseeing before trekking to Everest. We suggest not spending too long here as it can be very polluted in Kathmandu and by the time we were ready to trek, I was already quite congested.

Our recommendation is when you arrive in Kathmandu, only spend two to three days to get yourself organized and instead do your sightseeing at the end of your trek. Read more: Top Places to visit in Kathmandu, Nepal

Day 1: Fly from Lukla Trek to Pakhding

Flights to Lukla no longer leave from Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu Airport)  in Kathmandu due to congestion. Flights are now out of Ramechap airport which is a 4 1/2 hour drive from Kathmandu. You can book private helicopters from Tribhuvan International Airport.

The flight from Ramechap airport is much shorter than the flight from Tribhuvan International Airport. Flights to Lukla are only 12 minutes so more flights can get through when the weather is clear making flights less likely to be canceled or delayed for too long.

The flight to Lukla is a scary flight and is considered one of the most dangerous in the world. We flew from Kathmandu but flights now are much shorter from Ramechap. I think I would like it better as we sat at the front of the plane and saw the pilot’s instruments constantly flash “ obstacle ahead. ” It looked as if we were about to crash into a mountain at any time. Read all about our flight to Lukla and watch the video here

Watch Us Fly to Lukla Airport

The Lukla airstrip at Lukla Airpot is a short landing strip at only 525 meters (1,729 feet long.) Built on the side of a mountain it is also a very steep grade that is needed to slow the planes down quickly. Needless to say, we held our breath during the landing.

We survived that flight, but it was the flight back to Kathmandu I was nervous about. Taking off on that short of a runway was a hair-raising experience. One false move and we’d drop thousands of feet into the valley below. Lukla Airport is actually called Tenzing Hillary Airport named after the first two men to summit Mount Everest.

Hiking from Lukla to Pakding

The trek begins officially in Lukla. Lukla is a busy town with plenty of accommodation, shops, and eateries. If you forgot anything for your EBC trek, you can pick up supplies in a pinch. But we suggest purchasing all your gear in Kathmandu. It is much cheaper.

From Lukla, we immediately started our Everest Base Camp hike. After a quick snack and a cup of tea in Lukla, we set off on an easy three-hour trek along trekking trails that were easy to follow weaving through villages, crossing rivers, and stumbling over stony paths.

Entering Sagarmatha National Park

A permit is needed to hike to Everest Base Camp as it is located in Sagarmatha National Park. We checked in with the national park headquarters and Dipendra took care of everything. He had all our paperwork in order so all we had to do was start walking through the beautiful Khumbu Valley to make our way to Everest base camp.

Sagarmatha National Park has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1976. At 1148 square km (443 square miles) in area, it is one of the most beautiful places we have ever visited.

We felt giddy stepping through the welcome gates located just outside of Lukla. This was it, we were following in the footsteps of the great adventurers of our time. It was awe-inspiring to hike through the Khumbu region surrounded by the Himalayas.

As we hiked out of Lukla, Dipendra pointed out the surrounding jagged white peaks named Kwangde, Mumbu, and Kishumkongara. At 6000+ meters, (19,000+ feet) these are the “little guys” of the world’s highest mountain range. It wouldn’t be long until we were among the famous 8000-meter (26,000 feet) peaks.

Our first day was filled with a relaxing walk while learning about the Khumbu region. It was quite early in the day, so we had plenty of time to take our time to learn about the customs of climbing and learn the names of the mountains found in this beautiful region of Nepal.

For the rest of the day, we followed the Dudh Koshi River Valley at a steady but leisurely pace to the village of Pakding. Temperatures were warm and the first day of trekking was comfortable. Lukla to Pakding actually has an elevation loss, so it is a good introduction to hiking through the region as we had a lot of downhill trekking.

After about 5 hours, we came to our first night on the trek where we spent the night in a comfortable teahouse in the village of Phakding.

Our First Night on the EBC Trek

The accommodation in Pakding was a quaint little hotel/teahouse that looked like a cottage. The wood-burning stove smelled delicious as it warmed the restaurant while they prepared our meals.

Our porter “Sher” carried all our supplies including the sleeping bags that we borrowed from our trekking company. We each rented a sleeping bag that was included in the price of our EBC trek. The beds were comfortable and Dave and I had private rooms. Some tours use dorm rooms but we had private rooms. Toilets were shared, but everything was clean and comfortable. The rooms were clean and we slept like rocks snuggled up in our thick down sleeping bags.

Heated Lodges – Teahouses on the EBC Trek

During the EBC Trek, you don’t stay in tents. You stay in charming teahouses with cozy beds, wood-burning stoves, and fully stocked restaurants that serve dinner.

The teahouses are a welcoming sight after a long day of trekking helping to make the trek to Everest one of the most memorable experiences of our lives. If you are planning to trek to Everest Base Camp in Nepal, read on for all the information you’ll need to help you prepare.

The main lodges of each teahouse we stayed in during the first half of our EBC trek were cozy and warm. At the lower elevations, woodstoves burned wood in the dining room and common areas and our rooms were a comfortable temperature with heating as we were wrapped up in our sleeping bags. We ate hearty meals of pasta and meat and enjoyed a relaxing night soaking in the amazing day we just had on the mountain.

  • From Lukla – Elevation 2869 meters (9,350 feet)
  • To Pakding – Elevation 2610 meters ( 8563 Feet)
  • Length – 7.7 km (4.78 miles)
  • Elevation loss – 79 meters (259 feet)
  • Duration – 3 Hours

Day 2 – Pakding to Namche Bazaar

On day two, we checked in at another gate of the Mt. Everest park headquarters to show our documentation. We had to show our passports and give them extra passport photos to go into the log. (So make sure you have extra passport photos with you) Once we signed in, we were officially in the Khumbu region and officially on our way trekking to Everest Base Camp.

We covered a lot of terrain on day two making it the longest day of the Everest Base Camp trek. The trail up the mountains was steep and challenging but it was a memorable day.

Day two of the EBC trek was a hike of almost 10km (6.2 miles) with an elevation gain of 800 meters (2624 feet). But throughout the hike, there was a lot of elevation loss mixed in so it felt like a lot more.

We would lose elevation as we descended into the valley only to have to climb back up again to a higher elevation. Today was a lot of fun though because we crossed several suspension bridges over Dudh Kosi River Valley.

Suspension Bridges on the way to Everest

If you have a fear of heights, crossing suspension bridges may not be your favorite moment, but the suspension bridges while trekking to Everest Base Camp are well constructed, made of steel, and in excellent condition.

I was nervous about the suspension bridges. The Lonely Planet Guide said, “ Grit your teeth and climb onto a drooping suspension bridge floating at a dizzying height .” That sentence freaked me out.

I had built the suspension bridges of the EBC trek in my head as something monstrous. But by the time we reached the first bridge, I wondered what all the fuss was about. Once I crossed my first bridge, my confidence was up and I was ready for anything the Everest trek was ready to throw at me.

Donkey Trains

Today we also started to see a lot of donkeys, cows, and goats taking supplies to the villages. Traffic can get very heavy on the Everest Base Camp hike. When animal trains go by, make sure to get out of their way and stay to the side.

They are loaded down with heavy gear and they have a mission to keep on walking until they are done. They can easily nudge you right off the side of a cliff as no matter what is in their way, they just keep walking.

The trail is a highway, but instead of transport trucks or trains carrying cargo, people and farm animals carry everything from lumber and building supplies to food and kitchen appliances.

Safety Tips on the Everest Base Camp Trek for yaks and donkeys

  • Important Tip: When a yak, donkey, or cow train passes you during the EBC trek, be sure to stand on the mountainside of the trail so they can’t push you over the edge !
  • It is better to be squished into a mountainside than to go tumbling over the edge!

Final Stretch to Namche Bazaar

Right after crossing the last bridge, the hardest part of day two of trekking to Everest base camp started The last push of the day consisted of 2-hours straight uphill to Namche Bazar.

We were drenched with sweat but the air was cool. Whenever we stopped for a break, we would get a chill so we just kept on chugging away.

Large tour groups passed us quickly, only to be caught a few minutes later as they rested. We realize that we were the tortoise and they were the hare! Slow and steady is the way to climb at high altitudes and in the end, we made it to Namche Bazaar with plenty of time to spare in the day.

Arrival to Namche Bazaar

We checked into the security post and cringed when we found out that our lodge was an uphill walk for another 20 minutes. Rest had to wait a bit longer.

When we arrived at our accommodation, we were thrilled to see our porter Sher’s smiling face. He had already checked us in and put our bag in our room. We immediately went for a nap and then did a little walking around town in the evening to do some shopping and grab a bite to eat before turning in for an early night.

There are plenty of shops and restaurants at Namche Bazaar, this town is bustling and we spent two nights of our EBC Trek here which was awesome.

Pakding – Elevation 2610 meters ( 8563 Feet) Namche Bazaar – 3440 meters (11,286 feet) Elevation Gain – 830 meters (2723 feet) Distance – 10km (6.2 Miles) Duration – 6 hours

Day 3 – Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazaar

We had two glorious days at Namche Bazaar. Dipendra chose great accommodation for us throughout our EBC trek and we had a good rest in this splendid teahouse where we enjoyed delicious pasta, meats, and of course dhal baht. We spent the morning enjoying coffee and doing a bit of shopping.

What to do in Namche Bazaar

We explored Namche Bazaar and checked out its many shops. The streets are packed with shopping stalls and markets. We searched for gear that we missed getting in Kathmandu and got some great deals. We were surprised the prices weren’t inflated at Namche Bazaar.

We bought some down booties to keep our feet warm at night, a couple of sherpa hats, and a warmer set of gloves. The Everest Bakery was a highlight with delicious apple pie, fresh coffee, and WiFi. We had two pieces each!

But we took it very easy, making sure to stay hydrated and to eat enough food to stave off altitude sickness. Namche Bazaar is located at a high altitude of 3440 meters (11,286 feet). We already saw a woman suffering from altitude sickness. She was having her blood pressure taken and heart rate monitored and when she got up, she was staggering as she leaned on her guide.

Her Everest base camp trek had already come to an abrupt end. It reminded us to relax because the days ahead were going to be tough. So we went back to our teahouse to relax and prepare for the rest of our journey

The Acclimatization Hike for EBC Trek

Most high-altitude treks have at least one acclimation day . The Everest Base Camp trek is no exception. An acclimatization day consists of hiking to a higher altitude and then coming back down to sleep at a lower elevation. It gives your body a chance to adjust to the altitude but you don’t stay for long.

As you will be constantly gaining altitude on the Everest Trek, it is good to have at least one day to climb higher and sleep lower to help prevent altitude sickness.

Our acclimation hike took us to the Everest View Hotel. With an elevation gain of only 400 meters, it wasn’t too much higher than our hotel in Namche Bazaar, but it is enough to help acclimate to the high altitudes. Everest View Hotel offers amazing views of Mount Everest (hence the name). Plus it holds the Guinness book of world records as the highest hotel in the world.

It is not an easy day off though. Just walking through town takes your breath away. As we made our way up the steps, I wondered if I should have just stayed in bed and skipped the viewpoint to relax. When we started the climb I was breathing heavily just walking up a few flights of steps. We hadn’t even left Namche Bazaar and I was pooped!

Once we got on the trail, things became easier. The steep grade gave way to a sloping trail and I started to feel better. After one and a half hours of climbing, we reached what has to be the world’s highest airstrip at 3700 meters (12,139 feet). We arrive just in time to see a small plane take off.

First Views of Mt. Everest

It was here that we got to see our first breathtaking views of Mt. Everest and the surrounding mountains. We hiked a bit farther and there it was, standing quietly behind the other highest peaks of the earth. 

Lhotse, Changri, Ama Dablam, and Nuptse surround the mighty Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak. At 8414m (27,604 feet), 6027m (19,773 feet), and 7861m (25,790 feet) they are the little sisters of this sacred mountain. Mount Everest stands at 8848 meters (27,716 feet).

The deep Khumbu valley views were magnificent. The river wove far below, carving through the panorama of the white mountain tops. We walked a narrow trail snaking along the side of a steep mountain and suddenly realize “this trek has become real.” We were high in the Himalayas and one false move could mean catastrophe falling into the abyss below.

The sky was a deep blue and the white summits reached toward the billowing clouds. The view was so awe-inspiring it brought me to tears. Everything was so crisp and clear. During the EBC trek, you feel as if you could reach out and touch heaven.

The clouds rolled in quickly so it was time to go. The weather conditions change quickly on the Everest base camp hike, so it is good to have the experience of a guide leading us through all terrain and conditions. We went back to Namche Bazaar to relax and gain strength for the rest of the trek.

Namche Bazaar – Elevation – 3440 meters. (11246 feet) Everest View Hotel – 3880 meters (12,730 ft.) Elevation – Bounce of 440 meters (1443 feet) Duration – 3 hours return Elevation Gain – 0 km

Day 4 – Namche Bazaar to Tengboche

We awoke earlier than usual on Day 4. Two large group treks (Intrepid Travel and G Adventures) had checked into our lodge and we didn’t want to have to compete for service or breakfast. We also didn’t want to have to wait in line for the bathroom.

Lodges become more and more sparse as you go higher on the Everest Base Camp Trek and fewer toilets are shared between more people. Up until now, we hadn’t encountered crowds of people. It had been pretty quiet on the mountain and we liked it that way.

Luckily, we were a day ahead of the other tours. They had to stay in Namche Bazaar for another day to acclimate to the high altitudes, So we moved on to enjoy our EBC Trek free from crowds of people – for now.

Tenzing Norgay Memorial Stupa

During day 4 of the EBC trek, we hiked along trails clinging to the side of the mountain. The narrow trekking trails along this route were a little scary. They wound along the edge of the cliff with nothing but a sheer drop to the abyss into the Khumbu Valley. But we kept our wits about us putting one foot ahead of the other until we reached the Sherpa Monument.

Tenzing Norgay Sherpa monument was erected by the Norgay family. It is a stupa honoring Tenzing Norgay Sherpa and all the Sherpas that risked their lives to help climbers reach the summit of Mt. Everest.

All treks pass this monument and it is an important stop on the journey to pay respect to the famous Sherpa of the Everest region. In case you don’t know, Tenzing Norgay Sherpa was the first man to summit Everest along with Sir Edmund Hillary.

What is a Sherpa?

Sherpas are the unsung heroes of Mt. Everest. They do all of the hard work and technical work on the mountain. They carry the heavy loads, set the ladders and ropes to cross the Hillary Step and Khumbu Icefield for mountain climbers, and they take care of setting up camp while climbers and trekkers catch their breath and try to survive life on the world’s highest peak.

Difference Between a Sherpa and a Porter

Sherpas and porters are very different from one another. We learned that a Sherpa is actually the name of an ethnic group from Tibet. The original mountaineers hired Sherpas as their guides in the Himalayas and the world has now adopted the name for porters in the Everest region. If you aren’t born into the Sherpa ethnic group, you cannot be called a Sherpa. Porters are porters and Sherpas are Sherpas.

We were told that some porters, especially commercial porters carry up to 60kg (150 pounds) of supplies and gear to businesses located along the EBC trek. That is a lot of weight and we were very surprised. When climbing Mount Kilimanjaro , porters had a mandatory weight limit of 35kg. (77 pounds).

Dipendra told us that they get paid per kilo so some people push it too far. The Nepalese are a strong bunch but this is a lot to carry at such a high altitude no matter what shape you are in.

We kept our pack as light as possible at around 22kg (48 pounds) for Sher and we even felt bad about that! We have heard there is a 30kg (66lb) limit for Everest, but judging by what we saw other porters carrying on the Everest Base Camp hike, people were pushing it well beyond that.

We saw men carrying stacks of plywood with heavy white sacks loaded on top. We saw men carrying propane tanks, doors, and huge packs. What could people possibly need on the EBC Trek that they packed their packs so full? Read more: Packing List for Everest Base Camp Trek

Approaching Tengboche

The final push of our EBC Trek day 4 was to Tengboche Monastery. It was a tough yet steady 2-hour steep climb. We are now gaining altitude climbing above the tree line. We put our heads down and huffed and puffed our way up. We didn’t stop for any photos or videos and were surprised to cut the climb down to just one and a half hours.

We reached the prayer wheels of Tengboche Monastery just in time for light snow to start falling. We made it into our camp at Tengboche by 1:30 pm and had the entire afternoon to ourselves at 3900 meters (12795 feet). This is an excellent place on the Everest Base Camp hike to have some extra time to relax as there are a few special things to see and do.

Tengboche Monastery

We warmed our feet with our new down booties that we bought at Namche Bazaar and changed into some dryer clothes before heading off to see the monks chant at Tengboche Monastery. Our guide Dipendra told us that this is the most important monastery in the region. All climbers summiting the mountains stop at this monastery to be blessed by the monks.

We were allowed to watch the ceremony and to take in the warmth and blessings from the monks. It is a sacred place and all climbers and trekkers stop here before continuing up the mountains.

The footprints of Lama Pagna Dorje from the 16th century are embedded in solid stone in front of the monastery.  A place where he mediated and raced through the Himalayas riding the wind with his mind.

Apparently, he sat on this stone for so long, his feet left their mark. He spent years traveling the world through the power of his mind and we believe the story. Especially after our yoga experience in Goa India. He predicted that a monastery would be built here and surprise surprise…here it is.

The View from Tengboche Monastery

The view is magnificent from Tengboche Monastery. The valley is wide and opens up to massive rolling hills giving way to the highest peaks on earth. Plus it has a clear view of Mt. Everest and the surrounding mountains.

We were told that Sir Edmund Hillary came back to survey the peak of Mount Everest from this spot because the view is so clear of the mountain and we can understand why.

Accommodation – Basic Tea Houses at Higher Altitude

At this high elevation of the EBC trek, accommodation became very basic and rustic. We felt like true adventurers as we sat by the fire warming our feet and bonding with our fellow trekkers over our shared experience by candlelight.

There were 10 of us staying in this teahouse. All are sharing electricity to charge our camera batteries. Meals were now vegetarian and wood stoves were heated by yak dung. At this high altitude, meat cannot be transported fast enough to stay fresh and regular wood is scarce, so yak dung it is.

When we went to bed, our room was freezing. Rooms are not heated at higher elevations. We had our own room, but I sometimes wonder if sleeping in a dorm would have helped with more body heat. The temperature easily dipped down to -10 Celcius (14 degrees Fahrenheit) and our plywood walls didn’t offer a lot of comforts.

We tossed and turned all night long trying to keep our noses warm in our sleeping bags wearing our down jackets, thick socks, and thermal mid-layers.

It was so cold the scoop bucket for the shared squat toilet froze over forming a patch of ice to form on the floor. It was a slippery trip to the outhouse. Sadly, we always have to pee a lot during the night when sleeping at high altitudes so we visited that toilet a lot.

Hot Tip: Pay for hots showers at lower elevations You won’t regret it! We realized that we should have paid the 250 Rupees for the hot showers offered at the accommodation in Namche Bazaar. Now that the weather was so cold there was no way we could face a bucket bath in a freezing shed. Dave and I set a new record in these mountains of Nepal, 9 days without a shower!

Namche Bazaar – Elevation – 3440 meters. (11246 feet) above sea level Tengboche – 3860 meters (12664 feet) Elevation Gain – 420 meters (1378 feet) Distance – 9.3 km (5.77 miles) Duration – 3 hours (without stopping) 5 hours for photos, lunch and rest.

Day 5 – Tengboche to Dingboche

Day 5 of the EBC Trek was freezing!  We had an early wake-up call and morning came too quickly on the Tengboche leg of the EBC Trek. But, we awoke to a winter wonderland of fresh snow at the Tengboche Monastery and clear views of Lhotse peak.

The snow from the night before made for more incredible views on the hiking trails. As we started out from the lodge, the sky was crisp and clear, showing Mount Everest in all its glory. It was stunning, and in between gasping for air, we admired the view.

Today we walked to higher altitudes and saw our first trains of wooly yaks.  Yaks cannot survive at low altitudes because it is too warm for them, so you don’t see yaks on the Everest Base Camp hike until at least 3000 meters. (9800 feet) They are beautiful.

Yaks on the Trek to Everest Base Camp

Woolly yak trains were more frequent and by day five of the EBC Trek, we had our system perfected to give them the right of way without letting them nudge us off the mountain.

As we said earlier, it is important to give yaks space. They will run you right off the mountain if you are in their way. Be sure to stand on the mountainside as they pass so you don’t get knocked over the edge. The yaks of the Everest Base Camp trek, have only one thing on their mind. To get to their destination.

On this day, signs of expeditions going up to summit Everest started to go by as large groups of yaks carried giant loads of climbing gear. It is exciting to think that we were walking the same route as so many great mountain climbers, like Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa.

The Trek from Tengboche is breathtaking

I conquered what little fear of heights I had left this day. Some of the narrow paths on the route dropped sharply into the deep valley below. Soon we found ourselves walking along the ledge not thinking at all about the dangers below. We hiked for a couple of hours before stopping for tea at a restaurant in Pangboche.

There are shops, teahouses, and restaurants along the route so we could buy lunch along the way and one of the more popular stops is in the village of Pangboche. After a tea stop in Pangboche, we met a sweet lady that walked with us all the way to the village of Dingboche. Her name was Yangshou and she waited for us as we struggled up hills and crossed the suspension bridge over the Imja Khola River.  

Her cute laugh and quiet prayers helped to pass the time. She stopped to talk to everyone on the trail while we plugged along. She’d fall far behind when she chatted with friends, only to quickly catch us and then scoot by us with ease. She must have enjoyed our company because we really slowed her down. “ Yangzhou, we will always remember your smiling face!

We spent the night in the village of Dingboche and wished that we had another night here. It is from here that you will see beautiful views of Island Peak and Lhotse, but it is also a good spot for another acclimatization day.

Tengboche – 3860 meters (12664 feet) above sea level Dingboche – Elevation – 4410 meters. (14468 feet) Elevation Gain – 550 meters (1804 feet) Distance – 10.8 km (6.71 miles) Duration – 3 hours (without stopping) 5 hours for photos, lunch, and rest.

Day 6 – Second Acclimatization Day at Dingboche

This is a day that most people spend acclimating to the high altitude. We did not do this day, but you should! So we are including it in the guide because it is a very important day when trekking to Everest Base Camp. If we were smarter, we would have spent 2 nights in the village of Dingboche where we would spend a day hiking up to Nagurjun Hill.

This is the best place for climbers looking to summit Everest, Ama Dablam (6812m), Lobuche peak (6,119 m), or Island Peak to do their acclimatization day. Dingboche is a small village in the Khumbu region with only a few guest houses, so it is a good time to relax, replenish and rejuvenate for the next push.

If we had brought our Lonely Planet Trekking in the Nepal Himalayas (which we forgot in Kathmandu and kicked ourselves about it every day) we would have realized that we should have taken an extra day to acclimate in Dingboche.

Dipendra was flexible so he would have easily added another day onto our trek, we just didn’t know any better to ask about it. Lucky for us, we felt strong, but other groups were complaining of headaches and dizziness.

In the end, we wish we spent the extra day here. Some people even spend two days here climbing to the surrounding peaks. We did suffer after reaching base camp and I believe that is because we didn’t spend time acclimatizing here.

Had we stayed, we would have done some light hikes to gain altitude and then come back down to rest at a lower elevation. Many people who are set to climb Island Peak or Kala Patthar stay here for a few days to get some practice climbs in.

Dingboche – Elevation – 4410 meters. (14468 feet) above sea level Nangkartshang Peak  – Altitude – 5050 meters (16568 feet) Climb – 640 meters (2099 feet) Distance – 10.8 km (6.71 miles) Duration – 4 hours Elevation Gain – 0

Day 7 – Dingboche to Lobuche

We walked with fellow trekkers we met at our guesthouse Martin and Richard from Slovakia during the morning hours. They carried their own packs and after watching them struggle, we were happy we hired a porter. (note: As of April 2023, you can no longer trek independently in Nepal) They were really starting to feel the altitude and we eventually left them behind.

We enjoyed our day taking photos of the stunning clear views of the Everest region. It may be a little colder trekking in Nepal at this time of year (Early March), but the skies are clear and blue. When we came across a small cluster of houses, we felt like we had entered the Kingdom of Middle Earth. Little Hobbit houses lined a valley with giant peaks looming overhead.

We had a front-row seat to some of the most breathtaking views on earth. An entire panorama of the mountains standing proudly overhead, reaching up to the deepest blue sky that I have ever witnessed. The scene took our breath away. The mountains looked more imposing with each corner we turned and we could not believe that we were fulfilling our dream of hiking to Everest.

We had to knock on the door to see if Bilbo Baggins happened to be in. Sadly, he wasn’t home. I ended up singing Leonard Nimoy’s Ballad of Bilbo Baggin s for the rest of the day. A bad idea since I only know a few words.

Weather Conditions

The wind picked up and we put on our outer layers for the first time. We were thankful to have them as we staggered through the high gusts. Weather varies greatly in the Everest Region and before you know it you can have inclement weather so be prepared with your layers. The sun can be shining one minute and then wind and clouds roll in the next.

After lunch, we faced quite the scramble up a steep hill littered with boulders. It looked like a tough climb, but we moved with ease and quickly made it to the top. Where we found our strength, I do not know.

Sherpa Monuments

At the top of the hill is a very moving sight. Several monuments and stupas are erected, honoring Sherpas and climbers that have lost their lives on Everest. The most notable of these is  Babu Chiri  Sherpa .

Babu Chiri Sherpa was the former world record holder of the fastest ascent of Everest, the most number of ascents up the mountain, and the quickest back-to-back summits of 2 in less than 2 weeks. He tragically lost his life on his 11th attempt when he fell into a crevasse.

It was a moving experience and a strong reminder to not take things lightly on Everest, even if you are only trekking to Everest Base Camp. It is still a serious trek.

Dingboche – Elevation – 4410 meters. (14468 feet) above sea level Lobuche  – Altitude – 4940 meters (16207 feet) Elevation Gain – 530 meters (1738 feet) Distance – 17.6 km (10.9 miles) Duration – 4 to 5 hours

Day 8 – Morning – Lobuche to Gorak Shep

Day 8 on the Everest Base Camp Trek takes you to 5000 meters (16404 feet). How did we feel at 5000 meters? Terrible. Before entering Nepal, I had been suffering for a few weeks in India. The pollution of Kathmandu didn’t help and my congestion was worse when I started the climb. I thought it would clear up in the fresh air, but it intensified with each increase in altitude.

Every morning my cough got worse and my nose was stuffed up to the point of being unbearable. Today, I felt the effects of the congestion and couldn’t catch my breath. It didn’t help that we had gone into such a high altitude. The air is thin and cold.

Dave suffered his first symptoms of altitude sickness when reaching 5000 meters as well. He had a slight case of diarrhea and wasn’t happy about having to wait for the toilet in the teahouses. I think many people were suffering from the same symptoms.

Our was a slow climb to Gorak Shep. We stopped regularly to catch our breath and today we took more breaks than usual. Luckily it was only a couple of hundred meters in elevation gain so we made it to our guest house in Gorek Shep by 12:30.

Lobuche  – Altitude – 4940 meters (16207 feet) above sea level Gorak Shep – 5164 meters (16942 feet) above sea level Elevation Gain – 224 meters (734 feet) Distance – 4.3 (2.6 miles) Duration – 4 Hours

Day 8 – Afternoon: Gorak Shep to Everest Base Camp

We took a break at Gorek Shep before making out way to Everest Base Camp. We sat in the sun marveling at the fact that we made it this far. After eating a hearty lunch of vegetarian Sherpa stew (Dal Bhat) on the terrace, (yes, we ate outside in the warm sun above 5100 meters) we set out for Everest Base Camp. The sun was shining brightly and it was quite pleasant outside so we were very excited.

We were lucky and had clear skies. Up until today, the clouds had rolled in by early afternoon every day. Today the sun shone and the skies were blue until sunset. So, it was our perfect morning to make the push.

The trek to Base Camp from Gorak Shep is an easy one. It’s two hours of walking with only a small elevation gain, and we made it with ease. That break for lunch really helped our spirits.

Reaching Everest Base Camp

People can summit Mount Everest from Tibet, but the main Everest Base Camp expedition route is in Nepal, and it is busy when the season is in full swing. Even those climbing to the peak of Mt Everest hike the route we took along the Everest Base Camp trek.

We arrived just a week or two before the season, so it was still quiet on the mountain. In fact, we were the only people at Base Camp that afternoon. We saw another group coming down on our way up, but once there we had it all to ourselves. It was thrilling.

To reach Everest base camp, you will hike out from nearby Gorak Shep and then hike back the same day to spend the night in the village. You do not spend the night at base camp.

Khumbu Glacier

The Khumbu Glacier is the first thing to come into view, and it is unbelievable to think that we are actually standing there. The Khumbu Glacier is the largest glacier in all of Nepal and is famous for the Khumbu Icefall. This treacherous sheet of ice is the most dangerous obstacle that climbers face when summiting Everest.

We witnessed an avalanche that reminded us just how precarious the climb to Mount Everest is. It is an intimidating sight and I cannot imagine having the courage to cross that field of ice. Climbers walk across ladders that shift and move as the ice is alive and constantly settling. It has taken many lives, and we were happy to look at it from afar.

With an elevation of 7600 meters at its source, the Khumbu Glacier is the highest glacier in the world and the Khumbu Icefall is one of the most dangerous portions of the climb to the summit of the world’s highest peak. We were happy to look at it from afar.

Everest Base Camp’s elevation is 5,364m (17,598 feet) so you will feel the high altitude. But, if you have taken your time you should feel pretty good. We had been at this elevation now for a while and stayed hydrated, so we could enjoy the experience.

We stood at a rock covered with prayer flags announcing that yes, we had made it to Mount Everest Base Camp at 5364 meters. We stayed for almost an hour taking videos, celebrating, and snapping photos. If you can bear it, don’t rush the experience, take it in and enjoy every minute. This will be the only time you’ll see it.

Trekking to Everest may be more exciting later in the season when Everest expeditions are there, but we really liked having base camp to ourselves. There wasn’t a soul on the mountain except for the three of us. We stayed for almost an hour taking videos, celebrating, snapping photos, and marveling at the massive Khumbu Glacier. Can it really be true that we are here? It felt like a dream.

We finished our climb about two weeks before the high season began and we wouldn’t have it any other way. We stood at a rock covered with prayer flags announcing that yes, we had made it to Everest Base Camp.

When it’s high season, base camp is filled with expeditions and tents spanning the valley. We only saw one expedition so far. They may have been here to climb Island Peak as base camp is also a place to acclimate for that peak.

We started to make our way back to Gorak Shep from Everest Base Camp at about 3:30 pm. Even though it was an easy trek back, there are narrow paths atop high ledges and it just so happens that while we were walking back, an ice bridge broke off after I stepped on it leaving Dave with a sticky situation of having to take one giant leap over a gorge. We made it back to Gorak Shep safely but it was a reminder just how dangerous the Himalayas can be.

Back to Gorak Shep

By the time we made it back to Gorak Shep, the excitement of reaching Everest base camp had worn off. We had reached our final destination Base Camp, but there was still a lot more trekking to go.

We were happy to have seen it, but we were exhausted. We felt the same when we climbed Mount Kilimanjaro. The thrill of reaching your destination is over and there is nothing more to look forward to, but there are still so many days to go.

That night I had serious sinus congestion and felt like I was suffocating in my freezing bed. It was quite scary to already be short of breath because of the altitude and then be completely congested. I really was terrified. Our guide Dipendra brought me hot tea all night and I slathered myself in Vicks Vaporub but nothing helped me to breathe easier.

I was afraid as we had the Gokyo Lake trek ahead through the Cho La Pass. We were also planning to trek up to Kala Pattar for the best views of Everest in the morning. I hope I could make it but I was also dreading the day ahead. I barely slept a wink but I finally drifted into a not-so-peaceful slumber.

Gorak Shep – 5164 meters (16942 feet) above sea level Everest Base Camp Elevation – 5,364m (17,598 feet) above sea level Elevation Gain – 200 meters (656 feet) Distance – 3.5 km one way (2.1 miles) Duration – Three Hours Round Trip

Alternative Gokyo Lake Via Cho La Pass

The next morning after a terrible night, we gave up our plans of climbing Kala Patthar and then on to the Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass trek. Even though I wasn’t feeling dizzy, nauseous, or lightheaded anymore, the sinus congestion was really getting to me. At altitude a cold can turn serious quickly, you just can’t take a chance when altitude is involved.

But, if we were going to trek on, this would be the next stop. It is supposed to be beautiful and if you are feeling up to it, we highly recommend it. This makes the trek much more interesting as you get to take a different way back to Lukla.

Cho La Pass: Altitude 5420 meters (17,782 feet) Gokyo Ri: 5357 Meters (17,575 feet) Gokyo Lakes: 4,700–5,000 m (15,400–16,400 ft)

Day 9 – The Descent and Kala Patthar

Kala Patthar is a hill above Gorak Shep that offers the best views of Everest and is a must-stop on anyone’s Everest Base Camp trekking route. We had planned to climb to the summit of Kala Patthar, but my congestion was so bad, that we decided it was safer to get to a lower elevation quickly.

Kala Patthar is a quick two-hour trek to add to your descent back to Lukla. It is a good option if you are feeling up for it as it gives a great view of Mt. Everest. Make sure to start early morning before dawn as there is still a long day of trekking after summiting Kala Pattar. Plan on another five or six hours to your next overnight stop at Pheriche.

Kala Patthar to Pheriche – Afternoon

By the time you reach your accommodation at Periche, you should be feeling a lot better. Dave and I find that we are fine in the 4000-meter ranges of altitude and experience very few symptoms of altitude sickness. It is at 5000 meters and above that, we start to feel our symptoms. Periche is a much more manageable 4371 meters.

Kala Pattar: 5643 metres Pheriche: 4371 Meters Altitude Loss : 1272

Days 10 to 11 – The Descent from Everest Base Camp

It took us two days more to trek back from Everest Base Camp to our final destination on the EBC Trek. I started feeling better on the second day as the dryness of the Everest base camp disappeared. My sinuses cleared and soon I was breathing easily. I started to feel guilty about turning around, but in hindsight, I know it was the right choice. You never want to take a chance with altitude sickness.

Even though we were heading down, there is still a lot of altitude gain as the EBC trek doesn’t continuously go downhill. I was feeling really fatigued and we still had a tough couple of days ahead of us. But knowing there was light at the end of the tunnel made everything easier.

It takes a lot of mental stamina to climb back down as the euphoria of reaching the Everest base camp has worn off, but we made the most of it, by chatting with other trekkers and getting to know our guides better.

During our decent we could actually take our time to smell the roses or should I say enjoy the trekking trail that ran through the stunning rhododendron forest.

Rhododendrons are beautiful flowering plants that bloom in different shades of pink, red, white, and purple. The rhododendron forest is particularly prominent in the areas of Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Dingboche which we really didn’t notice until we made our way down the mountains.

We followed the route we came up with, but it was much faster and we stayed in different villages. The beauty of booking organized trips with a local guide is that our guide Dipendra knew the routes like the back of his hand, so he could change accommodations easily to suit our speed.

Day 12 – Lukla

We were back in Lukla early on day 12 of our EBC Trek and had an evening booked in a guest house here to catch the first flight from Lukla back to Kathmandu in the morning. As much as we loved our trip to Everest, we were excited to be moving on to explore more of Nepal.

The accommodation was pleasant with a lovely restaurant, hot shower, and warm and cozy beds. It was a great way to end the trip.

Day 13 – Return To Kathmandu Flight from Lukla Airport

It is very important to give yourself an extra cushion when booking your return flight not only home from Kathmandu but from Lukla. We stayed overnight in Lukla on the final night of our trek and booked a flight to Kathmandu for first thing the next morning.

It is not uncommon for flights to be canceled or delayed flying out of Lukla Airport. Weather conditions change quickly. So give a bit of a cushion when booking your flight home from Nepal after you’ve finished your trek to Everest Base Camp. Many a traveler has missed their connecting flights home from Kathmandu because of delays in Lukla. It is safer to plan to spend a night or two in Kathmandu after your trek.

We were delayed an entire day. Even though we were booked on the first flight from Lukla, the weather made us wait until near sunset. We were the first (and only) flight out that day, so everyone else who was waiting for their flights all day was stuck another night.

It was a bumpy flight back to Kathmandu and we almost wished that we didn’t make it on the flight. The turbulence was so bad, I was sure we were going to drop out of the sky.

Everyone on the flight was silent as we were tossed about dropping huge amounts of elevation at a time. But we landed and we have never been so happy to arrive in Kathmandu. We kissed the ground, thankful to have trekked to Everest Base Camp, but vowed to never do it again.

Accommodation – Tea Houses on Everest Base Camp

The main lodges of each teahouse we stayed in during the first half of our trip were cozy and warm. At the lower elevations, woodstoves burned wood in the dining room and common areas and our rooms were a comfortable temperature as we were wrapped up in our sleeping bags.

But as we ventured higher, the stoves were less abundant and instead of wood, they burned yak dung. You heard me, Yak Dung. Wood can’t burn in thin air, so they use yak dung to heat the teahouses at high elevations. Rooms are not heated so when we went to our rooms, we had to wear hats, thick socks, puffy coats, and long johns.

There were charging stations at the accommodation for electronics and we paid by the hour for electricity.

  • We highly recommend taking a portable USB charger to charge your own electronics.
  • We also used a solar USB charger that recharged during the day as we hiked.

Meals on Everest Base Camp

Because we booked an all-inclusive Everest Base Camp trek with Simrik Real Nepal tour company, all meals and snacks were included with our accommodation. Each evening, hearty meals were served that included pasta, rice, or Dal Bhat. Dal Bhat is the staple food of Nepal consisting of lentils, vegetables, steamed rice, and curry.

For the first few days, meat was served at meals, but as you climb higher, meals turned to vegetarian as it is more difficult to get the meat up the mountains.

Prayer Flags and Prayer Wheels – EBC Trek Etiquette

We saw many prayer wheels, prayer flags, and prayer rocks (mani stones) all along the trail to Everest. Everest is a sacred mountain and these monuments help give luck to the climbers on the mountain. There are customs to be followed when approaching prayer rocks or prayer wheels.

How to properly trek around prayer Wheels and Prayer Rocks

  • When approaching a prayer rock, it is important to walk to the left of the prayer rocks (mani stones) in a clockwise direction. The stone on the right means you are on the “right hand of God.”
  • When using prayer wheels, you walk along and spin them to ask for blessings for the climb ahead.
  • Sherpas and locals spin prayer wheels saying the mantra “ Om Mani Padme Hum” giving blessings to the climb ahead.
  • The prayer flags have prayers and mantras written on them which are believed to carry messages of positivity and to spread goodwill and compassion they are carried by the wind.

Altitude Sickness

Altitude Sickness is a very real possibility on the EBC Trek. On average 3-5 people die each year doing the trek to Everest base camp. Make sure to keep an eye out for signs of Acute Mountain Sickness. Acute Mountain Sickness is life-threatening and early symptoms include nausea, headache, and vomiting. It can lead to death. The Best way to alleviate symptoms is to go down to a lower elevation.

If you start to feel dizzy, have a pounding headache, or if you start to vomit go down to a lower altitude as quickly as possible. Take your time climbing, stay hydrated, and listen to your body.

Drink plenty of fluids, try to eat, and rest regularly. It is better to walk slowly and steadily rather than rushing at high altitudes. And when you get to your accommodations each day, relax as much as possible.

It can be dangerous trekking to Everest Base Camp from falling off the mountain to succumbing to altitude sickness. Some people have simply disappeared. Hiring a guide is a good option (and now the only option) for safety and it is very important to look for signals of altitude-related sickness.

But the Everest basecamp trek isn’t nearly as dangerous as climbing to the summit of Mt Everest. In 2019, 11 people died while trying to summit Mount Everest.

The village of Lukla is located at a high elevation so you will feel the effects of the thin air as soon as you land. The elevation of Lukla, Nepal is 2869 meters (9,350 feet). We were short of breath and already feeling fatigued upon landing. So instead of immediately starting our trek, we had a hot breakfast at one of the many restaurants in Lukla.

Travel Insurance for Everest Trek

We always travel with travel insurance on our travels, but hiking to Everest Base Camp will not be covered by regular insurance providers. It is highly recommended to get supplemental comprehensive travel insurance that offers trip cancellation insurance, and medical evacuation insurance.

Medjet is a good option for medical evacuation insurance and is a good addition to your regular travel insurance. There is a very real possibility of altitude sickness and we knew of two people that needed helicopter rescues during our trek.

World Nomads offers specific Everest Base Camp Insurance. You can check them out to get a quote. I would suggest a combination of World Nomads travel insurance and Medjet medical evacuation insurance. Regardless of what travel insurance you choose, be sure to call them directly to ask for specific advice about trekking to Everest Base Camp.

For a trip like Everest Base Camp, you will want to make sure to have trip interruption and trip cancellation insurance as well as lost luggage. This is a trip of a lifetime, so make sure you have a backup plan.

Can you Trek Independently to Everest Base Camp?

As of April 1, 2023, Nepal has banned solo trekking. Foreigners must hire a guide for treks in high-altitude trekking regions of national parks. According to the Kathmandu Post in March, “ solo or independent trekkers have to mandatorily hire a guide or a porter before setting off to Nepal’s mountains.” However, after an updated article in the Kathmandu Post, it seems that the Everest Region is an exception. Before booking, we would check with local companies and authorities as rules are constantly changing.

Regardless, we loved hiring a local guide to make oure experience richer, to support the local economy and to feel safer hi

  • Our all-inclusive Everest Base Camp Trek through the Simrik Real Nepal included return flights from Lukla, food, lodging, guiding, and all permits and paperwork.
  • We didn’t have to search for accommodation at the end of each day of trekking
  • We had English-speaking guides and a porter.
  • We had our own room, but you can also share rooms on the EBC Trek
  • We never worried about the cost of meals. They were all prepaid.
  • And our guide (Dipendra) and porter were part of the package for the trip.

Costs for Everest Base Camp Trek

Prices can vary greatly for trekking to Everest Base Camp. You can contact Simrik Real Nepal for up to date prices.

  • Booking with an international agency can cost from $1800 – $5000 USD
  • Booking with a local agency and be anywhere from $1400 – $2500

W hen is the Best time to Trek to Base Camp?

The high season for treks is April to May and October to November. We climbed in early March and felt that it was the perfect time of the year. The weather was beautiful, the skies were clear and the official climbing season hadn’t picked up yet. So we had a lot of the mountain to ourselves. We had heard stories of how busy the trail is, but at this time of year, it was quite deserted.

But a week and a half after our trek started as we made our way back to Lukla, it was already busier. We saw a lot of parties climbing up and the trail was getting congested. I can only imagine how packed the trails are during the high season.

What to Pack For Your Everest Base Camp Trek

Layering is extremely important when trekking to Everest Base Camp. This is a quick guide for clothing but we wrote a complete packing guide for base camp here .

Make sure to have a day pack to carry the important items and layers that you will need for your day of trekking for the entire trek. Your porter will carry everything else.

  • 2  quick drying long sleeved  base layer shirts
  • 2 trekking shirts short sleeve
  • 2 Thermal Base Layer – 2 leggings/2shirts
  • 2 liner socks
  • 3 pairs of  woolen blend trekking socks
  • 2 pairs of trekking pants with zip-off bottoms
  • 2 fleece sweaters – one lightweight, one heavier
  • Outer windproof jacket and pants
  • 2 water bottles to fill regularly
  • Steripen or Lifestraw – this is great for purifying water
  • Portable USB Charger
  • Basic First Aid Kit – A first aid kit is important to have but your guide, they will have one as well.
  • Warm sleeping bag. If you don’t have a sleeping bag rated to below zero, we recommend renting one from your guding company.

Treats and Medication

  • Tang – I was glad we packed Tang for our water. It made it taste better, keeping us well-hydrated. We didn’t really want to drink just water, but the Tang (which we bought in Kathmandu) was actually delicious. Gatorade or another electrolyte-replenishing drink is a great idea.
  • Diamox – (You can buy this in Kathmandu without a prescription) I highly recommend using Diamox tablets for altitude sickness as well. We met so many people suffering from headaches, dizziness, and fatigue and they weren’t taking anything. We’ve always used Diamox when climbing to altitude and it has worked beautifully for us.
  • Chocolate – When we were feeling ill, we were happy to have chocolate to eat. It was the only thing that we could eat at times.

How to Get Fresh Water on An Everest Trek

We recommend two refillable water bottles per person that can be refilled along the way. You can fill up anywhere for free along the Everest Base Camp route, but make sure you have a SteriPen or some other form of water purification with you. We love the SteriPen for purifying water, see our review here.

You can also use the LifeStraw or water purification tablets , but once we discovered the SteriPen , we never went back. See our complete Packing a Travel First Aid Kit here

Do You Need Climbing Experience for Everest Base Camp Trek?

There is no need for any technical climbing experience to make it to Everest Base Camp. If you are relatively fit, it is very doable. But it is a full two weeks at a sustained altitude of over 4000 meters.

We didn’t train for our Everest Base Camp Trek but we had been to altitude before and had spent a lot of time backpacking leading up to the months prior. It’s good to know how your body reacts to altitude. We suggested doing a couple of treks above 3000 meters (9000 feet) to see how your body reacts.

Hot Tips for Trekking to EBC

  • Keep your camera batteries close to your body when not in use. The cold and altitude really eat up battery life, so you will want to keep them warm for as long as you can.
  • Bring USD, ATM Fees are high and you are limited to the amounts you can take out of the ATM, so have ISD to exchange instead.
  • Pack handi wipes and Gold Bond Powder – it’s a lifesaver when you can’t get hot showers.
  • See our Full list of Everest Base Camp Tips here.

How to Get to Everest Base Camp

There are daily flights to Kathmandu International Airport from international hubs around the world.

Where to Book Your Everest Base Camp Trek

We booked our trek in Kathmandu with Local Guide Dipendra of Simrik Real Nepal.  If you are looking for a local guide he is an excellent choice with nearly 20 years of experience in the mighty Himalayas.

Prices for the Everest base camp trek cost can vary depending on where you book. Group tours booked in North America will charge more. Ranging from $1500 – $5000 USD

You can save a lot of money by booking a local guide as you will cut out the middleman prices. Having a local guide let us know our money was going directly to the Nepal economy. Check with Simrik Real Nepal for current prices.

How Much to Tip Guides and Porters for an EBC Trek

Guides and porters in Nepal do not make a lot of money and rely on tipping. When we take tours of any kind, we (ourselves) tip 15% – 20% but that is a part of our culture in North America, we are quite large tippers and realize that others are not comfortable with that. We’ve done a lot of research and gone by what our tour companies have suggested on other tips, what we feel is a fair tip and what the average is across the internet.

For tipping in Nepal we have broken down the cost for a guide and porter.

Guide – Tipping – 10% – 15% of the total cost of the trip. We find this the easiest to figure out. If you paid $2000 for your trek, the lead guide should receive $200 – $300

Guide per day – Some suggest $10 – $15 per day per person for guides – For a 14 day trek that means you would tip your guide $140 – $210.

Porters per day – $5 – $10 per day per person for porters. – $70 – $140 for your porter.

We like to start at 15% of the total cost of our trips to give to the guides and then pay the porters a daily fee of $10.

If you can afford to trek to Everest Base Camp, you should be able to tip your guides and porters who have worked so hard accordingly.

Daily Life in the Everest Region of Nepal

While trekking to Everest we passed through many picturesque villages. The people are friendly and life goes on as it would in any community in Nepal. People do well in the Khumbu Region and they respect the tours passing through because the tourists are what keep them going. 

There is electricity from the water that they harness from the Imja Khola River and Dudh Kosi River; two rivers that run through the trek. They also have solar power for electricity as well. There are schools, fresh running water, televisions, a health clinic, and bars.

That is not to say that life is all roses. It is a remote region of Nepal and it is difficult to get any supplies in. Food and equipment need to be carried into villages on foot. Porters carry heavy loads on their backs and women and children also do the heavy lifting. Everything needs to be carted in by hand or by animals. Check out our tips for climbing to Base Camp

How Long Does it Take to Trek to Everest Base Camp?

The Everest base camp trek takes 12 – 14 days to climb including two acclimatization days. Treks can be done in 11 days and it is not uncommon for trips to take 15 days to allow for more acclimatization.

How Difficult is it to trek to Everest Base Camp?

Trekking to Everest Base Camp requires good fitness. You spend several days at a sustained altitude of more than 4000 meters (16,404 feet). Altitude sickness is a genuine possibility, it is important to take your time, stay hydrated, and listen to your body.

Can you trek to Everest Base Camp on your own?

As of April 1, 2023 the government states that all high altititude treks require a guide, but then after some backlash, they made an exception for the Everest region. However, we highly recommend hiring guides and porters . You can trek the region yourself carrying your own packs and gear, but you have a much better chance of making to base camp (and enjoying the experience) if you hire guides.

How Long is the Everest Base Camp Trek?

The trek is 63km (39 miles) each way . 126 km (78 miles) round trip from Lukla. Expect to hike anywhere between 7 to 17 km per day.

And that is a day-by-day breakdown of our experience on the Mount Everest Base Camp Trek. If you plan ahead and understand what to expect on the EBC Trek, you will be sure to have an amazing journey.

It’s an experience we’ll never forget and highly recommend it to everyone. The Himalayan Mountains are the most beautiful and spiritual place on earth and this trip will change your life.

Read More about travel to Nepal and things to do in Kathmandu before your trek

  • Flight to Lukla
  • Packing list for Everest Base Camp
  • Remarkable Everest Base Camp Trek in Photos
  • 30 Tips for Trekking to Everest Base Camp
  • Nepal Travel Guide
  • Top 6 Places to visit in Kathmandu, Nepal
  • Where to Eat in Kathmandu – Eight Great Spots to Indulge After Your Trek
  • The Ultimate Travel Songs Playlist to Inspire Wanderlust

Dal Bhat photograph courtesy of Wikimedia – I don’t know why we never took a photo of our Dal Bhat. We ate it nearly every day while trekking to Everest Base Camp. You’ll either learn to love it or despise it.

  • Inca Trail – Machu Picchu Hiking Tips – How To Hike the Inca Trail
  • Complete Guide to Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro – How Hard is It?
  • Top 13 Best Treks in Nepal to Help you Choose The Right Trek for you
  • Trolltunga Hike – Trekking to Norway’s Most Famous Landmark
  • The Complete Guide to Climbing Mount Fuji

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

  • Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
  • Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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53 thoughts on “Everest Base Camp Trek – Ultimate Guide For 2024”

Beautiful article! You have shared a thrilling journey with us till the end. It will definitely be useful for us trekkers. Thanks for the great pictures, videos, and useful tips!

This is a fantastic and unique post! After reading it, I learned a lot about Basecamp that I didn’t know before. Excellent article! That is true adventure, and conquering Mount Everest is without a doubt the goal of all hikers around the world. Keep up the excellent work. Thank you for providing this information.

Wow, the content has got all the details about the trek. Thank you so much for sharing your Journey experience of Everest Base Camp Nepal.

Hi There, Great Article! That’s the real adventure and especially climbing Mount Everest is the dream for all hikers across the globe without any doubt. Keep up the good work. Thanks for sharing.

Wow, the content has got all the details about the trek. Thank You so much for writing such an efficient article on Everest Base Camp Trek.

That’s the real adventure and especially climbing Mount Everest is the dream for all hikers across the globe without any doubt.

Thank you for taking the time and effort to produce such an awesome post with amazing pictures. Loved reading all your posts, really good insights here into Everest Base Camp ! Looking forward to read more.

Nice article on trekking best of luck for your new journeys

Dear Dave and Deb Namaste It is really beautiful article regards of Everest base camp trek in Nepal. Your article provides a lot details of the EBC trek. I’m sure your blog helping lot to organize other trekkers.

Excellent article. Everest Base camp is in my bucket list but I haven’t attempted because I’m prone to sickness quickly. Reading this article has triggered the interest even more. Thank you so much for explaining in detail about EBC trek. I hope One day I too can share my experience 🙂

Hey, I love trekking, I went last month with my friends in Nepal after reading your blog the memory are refreshed Thank you for sharing

Namaste, Dave and Dave, Thank you so much for sharing your Journey experience of Everest Base Camp Nepal. And also glad to read that why not support the local economy by hiring a guide and porter… I salute to your positive view. Visit Nepal anytime.

It is very interesting to read this Everest base camp trekking. I love trekking and i am excited very to do this base camp trekking once. Thanks for sharing.

This popped up in my inbox I love the way you break down your travel itinerary this way. I’m one of those people that love to know every detail of a place before travelling there myself. Another place to add to the list, thanks to you guys! Beautiful photographs.

Thank you for taking the time and effort to produce a terrific blog of your trek to EBC. I really appreciate being able to experience what it is going to be like before I actually arrive.

Everest is the highest mountain. It is at the Zenith. Most of the people just a dream of it.Very useful information. Thanks for sharing with us.

Excellent article !! Thanks for sharing such a great informative post it really helpful and amazing so keep it up and all the best………….

this was just amazing… keep sharing

The post was very informative. If you love adventure and treks you should definitely visit Nepal, it’s gonna be a life time experience. This post will really help people who are planning their next trek to Everest base camp. If you are planning your next trek to Nepal, North Nepal Trek can help you to make your trek much easier and will give you unique experience.

All of your photos are just awesome. Information is perfect.

Such an awesome post with amazing pictures. Thanks for sharing your experience with us.

This is really a very good blog post and thanks for sharing it with the community

It’s an informative post and I was thinking how you backpack for the weather? There are many things that somewhere can’t be cope at altitude like a sickness. I remember I scare when I attempt sky diving in Dubai. It’s was a wonderful experience but I have a fear of altitude places.

I have read about it but never tried. I am glad that at least i am reading such an informative article that clearly shows experience of treking over there. It might so much exciting and filled with happiness because seeing something like that would always be more of fun and achieving some of our own. Would love to try it once for sure!

Hi guys. Nice blog. Very informative. I just wonder, how did you prepare for the weather? How did you acclimatise so that you can cope with thr danger of altitude sickness? It is the ine thing that scares me to try to trek on high altitude places. To climb Kilimanjaro and to reach the EBC are in my bucket list. I’m hesitant because of my fear that I might die from cold temperature and altitude sickness.

Dress in layers, and drink plenty of water. You will want to bring DIamox with you and take it. You can get it in Kathmandu, or go to a travel clinic before leaving home. You won’t die from cold temperatures at Base Camp if you have a proper guide, and dress properly. The real dangers are if you are summitting Everest, that’s when you can get into problems, but Base Camp is very doable for anyone that is physically fit. If you don’t have the gear, you can buy winter coats, boots etc in Kathmandu. But we do recommend breaking in your boots beforehand, so you should buy those before you leave home and wear them a lot. Get warm, waterproof breathable boots with wool socks and bring several pairs. We have a guide to winter base layers to avoid the deep freeze here: https://theplanetd.com/layering-tips-for-cold-weather-travel/

Loved reading all your posts, some really good insights here into EBC! You mention putting your hair in braids, why is that? Is it because of the sweat? Is it windy so it gets knotted up? Just curious as I am doing this trek in a week and am open to all tips ?

Yes, hair can get really matted due to wind, dryness and lack of showering. The Braids kept it from matting up like dread locks. Have a great time!

Long hair can get very matted almost like dread locks. It’s becuase there aren’t a lot of chances to shower after Namche Baazar, the wind, sweat and dryness from altitude really takes its toll on both hair and skin and the braids, keep the hair from matting and breaking off.

Great read! Just curious. what time of year did you go to avoid the masses of tourists?

Thanks for sharing articles and videos it will be helpful to all people those wants to go Mount Everest.

This is just amazing and knowing each and every experience that we will have while travelling is another aspect that made me read this article fully. I am in Dubai now on a trip and would surely try to visit this place i could. I should consider the right time and other things roo. I must thank you for this wonderful piece.

Such a great journey you have shared from start to finish and your presentation is also impressive. I would love to follow these things when I will go for a camp tour.

Regards, Ronit

Your Video is superb, I feel your treking experience in this article. worth to read it.

Wow what an wonderful place is this. Want to trek this place in my life.

Great article, thanks, surprised at the early time of year you did the trek, but sounded ideal – any other good write-ups or links discussing the pros and cons of going in the spring vs fall? …weather, landscape, crowded w/ other trekkers, festivals, etc Thanks!

I am looking forward for this kind of base camp.

What an excellent post!! Thank you so much for an informative article and personal feel. This is very helpful and inspiring for my upcoming trek to Everest Base Camp.

There is so great view in pictures.it’s useful and helpful for the trekkers .i like these types of views .and tourist are also love these types of views.

Anyways amazing photos and love the videos! really gives you a feeling how it is there and must be just thrilling. Looking forward to read more about your travels.

Nice Articles and sharing a good details of Everest base camp and amazing photos. I will try to go this year Nepal and go to Everest Base Camp.

Great post. I am doing the Everest Base Camp trek in October. I completed the Annapurna Circuit in 2012 and loved it. Nepal is a such a lovely place and the people are amazing. Thanks for sharing!

Wow congratulations on your trip and everything looks really cool. I would love to do the same! Did you train a lot before you went there? Did you prepare physically? I don’t know how fit I have to be to be able to take on such a travel. Anyways amazing photos and love the videos! really gives you a feeling how it is there and must be just thrilling. Looking forward to read more about your travels.

Hi Marus, we didnt’ train a lot before. We were traveling a lot though. Before heading to Nepal we spent 4 months traveling Sri Lanka and India. We did a yoga retreat and a lot of hiking and walking, but we didn’t do any proper training. We were in relatively good shape. It’s mostly just a long uphill hike. The difficulty is being at altitude for a sustained amount of time. It affects everyone differently. Some people can be in tip top shape, but not do well at altitude and vice versa. So, it’s best to take it slow and steady, drink plenty of fluids and pay attention to how you are feeling.

All your photos are simple awesome and your posts are speaking a lot of useful information. Thank you for sharing this article.

Thanks for your beautiful video. I fell a little up lifted seeing this. I believe one of the prayer flags is for a lady I knew. Inspiring. I wish I would have done adventurous things like this when I was young. Young people don’t put off adventure.

I’m glad I read this. This is something I have always wanted to do but have been a little nervous to think about doing it when the climbing season is in full swing. The time of year you went and the company you chose make a lot of sense! Thanks for sharing.

The views are amazing!! I love adventure, but I would definitely need to build up my stamina to do the Everest Base Camp trek. It looks like it was an awesome experience for you!

Wow, what a beautiful experience. Your photos are amazing!

-Siggi The Voyaging Viking

Amazing! Can’t wait to check this off my list!

Thanks for writing this.

Thank you for sharing these helpful tips. Your post has given me some great ideas. Thanks again for the valuable information!

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Everything To Know About Everest Base Camp Trek: Route, Essentials, Cost And Other Important Details

Everest base camp trek is one of the most difficult treks that requires planning to the t. read here as we give you all the details..

By: Ayushi Anand Published: Mar 31, 2023 12:00 PM IST

Everything To Know About Everest Base Camp Trek: Route, Essentials, Cost And Other Important Details

Just the mention of Everest Base Camp Trek is enough to get avid trekkers and mountaineers excited. While some of them still have Everest Base Camp Trek on their bucket list, the ones who have been a part of this adventure remember it as one of the most exhilarating experiences of their lives. Everest Base Camp is located at the height of 17,598 feet above sea level, and this trek in the Himalayas is one of the most challenging yet picturesque routes to be on. Before setting on an adventure like this, thorough planning is a must so that you have the right gear, gadgets and equipment to carry during your climb.

There are two base camps for Mount Everest – The North Base Camp in Tibet and the South Base Camp in Nepal. The North Base Camp has been closed to tourists since 2019, making Nepal the only campsite open to people.

Everest Base Camp – History & Location

EBC

Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay were the first ones to have climbed Mount Everest in 1953. They both realised that it is important to have a safe space to store supplies at the base of the mountain instead of going back to Khumbu Valley (also known as the Everest region) every time they needed essentials for the trek, and that’s when Everest Base Camp was formed.

Best time to visit Everest Base Camp Trek

Weather conditions in March to May and mid-September to November are perfect for trekking as the skies are clear and there’s less chance of snowfall. During this time, the visibility of the mountain is ideal. Although it is possible to trek during the winter season from December to February, the majority of accommodations are closed during this time, and the trails are covered with snow making it extremely difficult to navigate.

A minimum of twelve to fourteen days is required to complete the 130-kilometre-round trip. This time frame includes walking and resting as being on a high-altitude path requires you to acclimatise. Most trekkers walk for eight hours a day and can stretch a little more depending on the weather conditions and personal strength.

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How to reach everest base camp trek.

Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla airport (also known as Tenzing-Hillary airport), and from there, you can walk the wooden path towards Namche Bazaar to begin the trek. If you are pressed for time, you can even take a helicopter from Kathmandu to reach the small town of Lukla just in 45 minutes. The only way to reach Namche Bazaar from Lukla airport is by foot, as there are no proper roads for vehicles.

Everest Base Camp Trek route

EBC trek

The trek route starts at Lukla and from here you go through Phakding to reach Namche Bazaar. Going ahead you reach Tengboche. Crossing Pangboche, Dingboche, Dughla, Lobuche and Gorakshep you make your way to the destination – the Everest Base Camp. The route remains the same while coming back.

Places to explore during the Everest Base Camp trek

EBC trek plaaces

Sagarmatha National Park Museum

Offering the first views of the Everest and Lhotse, Sagarmatha National Park Museum is only a 20 to 30-minute walk from Namche Bazaar and is located right above it. The museum is a great place to learn about the Sherpa culture and history, and everything about Everest’s history through its various exhibits. One of the highlights here is the Tenzing Norgay statue.

Tengboche Monastery (also known as Thyangboche Monastery or Dawa Choling Gompa)

Located in Tengboche village at an altitude of 12,687 feet, this is one of the biggest Buddhist monasteries in Nepal and often the first stop for trekkers who seek blessings before setting on this adventurous trail. This monastery houses exclusive murals and is home to sixty monks. If you plan to trek in the months of October-November, do stop here to catch glimpses of the vibrant Mani Rimdu Festival.

Nangkar Tsang or Dingboche Viewpoint

Nangkar Tsang is a spectacular viewpoint located right above Dingboche in Khumbu and has an easy ascent compared to other mountain peaks. This is the place where most trekkers rest before going to higher points such as Kala Patthar and Everest Base Camp.

Inside the Sagarmatha National Park, you will find the home of the Sherpas known as Gorakshep. It is a small town where modern amenities such as the internet is available and is usually the final stop on most treks to the Everest Base Camp.

Kala Patthar

To get one of the best views of Mount Everest, take a detour to the lookout point Kala Patthar (translates to Black Rock). At an elevation of 18,373 feet, Kala Patthar is located higher than four of the seven summits and is a moderate to strenuous level of trek. The path to this viewpoint is short with a difficult climb that comes with a risk of slipping and falling but is totally worth it as at Kala Patthar you will get a 360-degree view of Mount Everest and spot other mountain ranges such as Nuptse, Changtse and Pumori.

You may need to extend your itinerary to include Kala Patthar, depending on your speed and weather conditions.

How to pack for Everest Base Camp trek essentials: Gear, Kits & More

When it comes to trekking at a high altitude without a doubt you need to carry layers of clothes to keep yourself warm for the trek in the harsh cold weather. Keep the list below handy when you begin to pack your bags .

  • Clothes: Carry a jumper, thermal inners, full-length pants, track pants, woollen socks, sports socks, gloves – woollen and synthetic both, a warm scarf and muffler, a warm fleece jacket, and thermal underwear. Make sure you carry synthetic t-shirts as cotton ones absorb sweat faster and will make you feel cold.
  • Shoes: Keep warm high boots for trekking and pack soft pairs of slippers that you can use while visiting nearby places.
  • Get yourself a sleeping bag that has an inner lining that will help you keep warm.
  • Toiletries: There will be days when you won’t be able to shower, so for those days carry baby wipes. Add cold cream, tissues, a good sunscreen with high SPF, dry travel towels and lip balm to your bag.
  • Water: You will have to drink water from the lakes and rivers that you find on the way during your trek so make sure to carry water disinfectant drugs.
  • Medical kit: Carry medicines for diarrhoea, and antibiotics for chest, stomach, sinus and other infections. Keep a hot water bottle. Must carry adhesive bandages and duct tape.
  • Also carry a full-length raincoat along with a woollen hat, sun hat and polarised sunglasses.

Everest Base Camp Trek cost

The standard cost for one person ranges from USD 1,200 to USD 1,500 (INR 99,098 to INR 1,23,872; conversion done at the time of writing ) for a period of twelve to fourteen days. This package will mostly include round-trip flights from Kathmandu to Lukla, permits, accommodation and meals. This cost does not cover visa fees, trekking and travel insurance. Earlier, you could do the Everest Base Camp trek on your own, however, recently Nepal banned solo trekking for foreigners and one has to book the trek with a travel organisation.

Important things to keep in mind before planning Everest Base Camp Trek

EBC trek

An avid trekker who has climbed Mount Everest and a high-altitude filmmaker, Manish Maharjan shares insights on how to decide if you are fit for this trek or not. He says, “You don’t need to be a very strong person working out every day, having big muscles. I have had clients with two open heart surgeries, and they still managed to complete the trek.” He recommends doing a short half-day or a full-day trek nearby to figure out the distance you can walk easily. You should also monitor your speed along with the recovery time your body takes after the trek.

When asked about how to sign up for the Everest Base Camp Trek, Maharjan said, “The best way for trekking in the mountains is always by signing up with a group or company or you can hire a freelance guide.” He further shared the importance of having a guide on the trek and said that guides will help in acclimatisation as they are experienced and know the best.

Emphasising on hiring a guide, Maharjan shared that people who don’t hire one end up not completing the trek or losing their lives. He added, “If you are an experienced trekker who has already done 5,000 metres (16,404 feet) plus elevation trekking then you can do solo travel, but for people with zero experience of high altitude, it is strictly not recommended to do solo travel.”

When asked about the tour operators to book the trip with, Maharjan recommended Seven Summit Treks and 14 Peaks Expedition as they are one of the biggest operators in Nepal.

(Hero and feature image credit: Daniel Prudek/Shutterstock)

Related: Annapurna Base Camp: Your Guide To A Successful Trekking Experience

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Answer: The difficulty level of the Everest Base Camp trek is moderate and it does not require prior trekking expertise. However, it is important to be physically fit and determined to complete the trek.

Answer: It takes around eight days to reach Everest Base Camp and four days to return back.

Answer: Beginners can do this trek, but it is not recommended unless you have all your gear in place and learn the proper methods of using it. It is a difficult trek compared to other treks in Nepal because of the elevation you gain. On the first day, Kathmandu to Lukla is 1,400 metres (4,593 feet) plus gain where you reach 2,800 metres (9,186 feet) plus elevation. So proper acclimatisation is recommended, including proper rest days in places like Namche Bazaar, which is at the height of 3,400 metres (11,154 feet) plus. Don't make the mistake of trying to finish the trek in a short duration and cut out rest days from your itinerary. This can become a reason for you not being able to complete the Everest Base Camp trek.

Answer: Everest Base Camp trek is harder than Annapurna trek because of the high altitude that takes a toll on human body if one does not acclimatise properly.

Answer: Yes, climbers use approximately seven bottles of oxygen.

Answer: Everest Base Camp Trek is considered to be one of the hardest base camp treks because of the altitude it is at. The trek starts at the height of 3,000 metres (9,842 feet) and the base camp is situated at the height of 5,400 metres (17,716 feet) above the sea level.

Answer: No, you have to be incredibly fit to climb Mount Everest. Most people train for a year before they set out on this adventure.

Answer: March, April, May, mid-September, October and November are the best months for the Everest Base Camp trek.

Answer: The approximate cost for one person around USD 1,200 to USD 1,500 (INR 99,098 to INR 1,23,872 - conversion at the time of writing) for a period of twelve to fourteen days.

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Ayushi Anand

Ayushi Anand

A post-graduate in journalism and mass communication, Ayushi is a digital writer who has worked with several Indian media organisations, including Times Internet Limited and Zee Media Corporation Limited, in the news, lifestyle and entertainment space. When she's not on her desk, she can be found dancing, trying new restaurants or packing her bags to .. Read More explore a new destination. Read Less

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Meet the families who’ve taken children as young as 2 to Everest Base Camp

When her daughter, Arishka, was just 6 years old, Dimple Laddha took her to Everest Base Camp.

The camp sits at an elevation of around 17,600 feet, where the oxygen concentration is nearly 50% less than at sea level. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at night. The standard 80-mile hike from the town of Lukla to Base Camp and back is often attempted by athletes and adventure seekers over 10 to 12 days. It involves an elevation gain of more than 8,000 feet.

Dimple said that for two years before their trip in April, she and Arishka had been going on 5-mile walks near their house in Pune, India, and she decided her daughter was ready for a challenge.

“Kids in general have a lot of energy,” Dimple said, adding: “I find it’s the duty of the parents to channel that energy in the right direction.”

When planning the trip, Dimple Googled whether small children had gone to Base Camp in the past, and said she found that a 4-year-old girl had indeed completed the climb.

In fact, the Laddha family is one of at least a handful who have attempted the journey with young kids in recent years.

A couple from Scotland made headlines earlier this year for having reached Base Camp in the fall carrying their 2-year-old. David Šifra told NBC News that he took his two children, Zara and Alex, there in December, when they were 7 and 4. And Chris and Cindy Matulis did the trek with their four kids in 2022, when Chris’ job gave him six months off.

“We really needed to seize the moment,” said Cindy, who has traveled around the world with her family, now based in New Hampshire. She described the trip as “the ultimate bonding time.” Their youngest, Hazel, turned 2 during the trek.

Tens of thousands of people journey to Base Camp each year, but anyone who isn’t used to high altitudes faces a risk of acute mountain sickness, according to the Wilderness Medical Society. At elevations above 8,200 feet, reduced air pressure and low oxygen levels can cause headache, fatigue, nausea and shortness of breath. In rare cases, the condition can be life-threatening.

Dr. Scott McIntosh, a professor of emergency medicine at the University of Utah and a member of the Wilderness Medical Society, said the added weight of carrying a toddler could make parents more vulnerable to acute mountain sickness. Small children may also have trouble vocalizing if they’re struggling or in pain during a trek, and cold temperatures, even more than altitude, can be the main challenge for them.

“Usually young kids, especially in the age of 2 to 5, don’t have experience in the outdoors like their parents might, so that could get young children or families into trouble if they’re not prepared for adverse weather,” McIntosh said.

Dimple Laddha, who did the trek with Arishka as part of a mountaineering group, said she contacted the group for advice about whether a 6-year-old could handle it.

“They were like, ‘Generally we do not not suggest children less than 12 years of age to do it … but we can try,’” she said.

To gauge Arishka’s interest, Dimple said, she showed her YouTube videos of the climb.

“She was all excited, although she is too young to understand the importance of it. But she had given the go-ahead,” Dimple said.

On the trek, she said, Arishka needed breaks every 15 to 20 minutes, so the duo often trailed behind the group with a guide. But Arishka enjoyed crossing the high-cable bridges and witnessing her first snowfall, her mother said.

“Other trekkers who we met on the way, they all took inspiration from Arishka,” Dimple said. “They were like, ‘If a girl as young as her can do it, then we can certainly do it.’”

They made it to base camp in eight days.

The Matulis family took it more slowly — ascending over 19 days starting from a mountain town at a lower elevation than the traditional starting point in Lukla.

The journey had some setbacks, Cindy said: Carrying Hazel was sometimes a struggle, especially on a day when rain created slippery mud on the trail that rose to their knees.

“I was absolutely miserable,” Cindy said. “I had Hazel and I had to be so careful and it was so hard. I ended up crying that day. I was just like, ‘I can’t do this anymore.’”

At another point, she said, their son Hobie, then age 11, hit his head and had to be examined by a medic. Henry, who was 9 at the time, got a fever. And Hallie, then age 6, developed a deep blister that briefly prevented her from walking.

Then there was the day Cindy noticed blood on her shirt while carrying Hazel.

“I was thinking, ‘Oh, my gosh, there’s something wrong with Hazel. Did her leg chafe in the baby carrier? Did she get cut on something?’” Cindy said.

The blood turned out to be coming from a leech on Cindy’s stomach.

At another point in the trip, she said, the whole family pulled leeches off their feet.

Still, Cindy said, “You don’t have the distractions of cleaning your house, technology — you’re just in nature, walking and talking, and you learn so much about your kids.”

Now, she added, her children are proud of what they accomplished.

David Šifra, a 51-year-old adventurer who lives in Malaysia with his wife and kids, similarly said he watched Zara develop self-esteem on the trail as people congratulated her. The biggest challenge, he said, was getting his daughter to stay bundled in her sleeping bag.

“At night, she was always climbing out,” David said. “I just put her back and she screamed, ‘Let me go! Let me go!’”

His kids were used to doing 3-to-6-mile hikes every day, David said, so he wasn’t concerned about their strength. But a doctor told him to be careful about the temperature, which was just above freezing at night at that time of year.

The Šifra family took 18 days to reach Base Camp, after starting farther West than the standard hike, in a town called Jiri.

David said Zara is "so strong now mentally — she talks directly to the adults."

Overall, McIntosh said, there’s no real threshold for how old kids have to be before going to Base Camp: “Children are fairly resilient.”

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com

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Meet the families who’ve taken children as young as 2 to Everest Base Camp

Hazel Matulis at Everest Base Camp in 2022.

When her daughter, Arishka, was just 6 years old, Dimple Laddha took her to Everest Base Camp.

The camp sits at an elevation of around 17,600 feet, where the oxygen concentration is nearly 50% less than at sea level. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at night. The standard 80-mile hike from the town of Lukla to Base Camp and back is often attempted by athletes and adventure seekers over 10 to 12 days. It involves an elevation gain of more than 8,000 feet.

Dimple said that for two years before their trip in April, she and Arishka had been going on 5-mile walks near their house in Pune, India, and she decided her daughter was ready for a challenge.

“Kids in general have a lot of energy,” Dimple said, adding: “I find it’s the duty of the parents to channel that energy in the right direction.”

Dimple Laddha took her daughter, Arishka, last year when Arishka was just 6 years old.

When planning the trip, Dimple Googled whether small children had gone to Base Camp in the past, and said she found that a 4-year-old girl had indeed completed the climb.

In fact, the Laddha family is one of at least a handful who have attempted the journey with young kids in recent years.

A couple from Scotland made headlines earlier this year for having reached Base Camp in the fall carrying their 2-year-old. David Šifra told NBC News that he took his two children, Zara and Alex, there in December, when they were 7 and 4. And Chris and Cindy Matulis did the trek with their four kids in 2022, when Chris’ job gave him six months off.

“We really needed to seize the moment,” said Cindy, who has traveled around the world with her family, now based in New Hampshire. She described the trip as “the ultimate bonding time.” Their youngest, Hazel, turned 2 during the trek.

Chris and Cindy Matulis with their kids at Everest Base Camp in 2022.

Tens of thousands of people journey to Base Camp each year, but anyone who isn’t used to high altitudes faces a risk of acute mountain sickness, according to the Wilderness Medical Society. At elevations above 8,200 feet, reduced air pressure and low oxygen levels can cause headache, fatigue, nausea and shortness of breath. In rare cases, the condition can be life-threatening.

Dr. Scott McIntosh, a professor of emergency medicine at the University of Utah and a member of the Wilderness Medical Society, said the added weight of carrying a toddler could make parents more vulnerable to acute mountain sickness. Small children may also have trouble vocalizing if they’re struggling or in pain during a trek, and cold temperatures, even more than altitude, can be the main challenge for them.

“Usually young kids, especially in the age of 2 to 5, don’t have experience in the outdoors like their parents might, so that could get young children or families into trouble if they’re not prepared for adverse weather,” McIntosh said.

Dimple Laddha, who did the trek with Arishka as part of a mountaineering group, said she contacted the group for advice about whether a 6-year-old could handle it.

“They were like, ‘Generally we do not not suggest children less than 12 years of age to do it … but we can try,’” she said.

To gauge Arishka’s interest, Dimple said, she showed her YouTube videos of the climb.

“She was all excited, although she is too young to understand the importance of it. But she had given the go-ahead,” Dimple said.

On the trek, she said, Arishka needed breaks every 15 to 20 minutes, so the duo often trailed behind the group with a guide. But Arishka enjoyed crossing the high-cable bridges and witnessing her first snowfall, her mother said.

Dimple Laddha took her daughter, Arishka, last year when Arishka was just 6 years old.

“Other trekkers who we met on the way, they all took inspiration from Arishka,” Dimple said. “They were like, ‘If a girl as young as her can do it, then we can certainly do it.’”

They made it to base camp in eight days.

The Matulis family took it more slowly — ascending over 19 days starting from a mountain town at a lower elevation than the traditional starting point in Lukla.

The journey had some setbacks, Cindy said: Carrying Hazel was sometimes a struggle, especially on a day when rain created slippery mud on the trail that rose to their knees.

“I was absolutely miserable,” Cindy said. “I had Hazel and I had to be so careful and it was so hard. I ended up crying that day. I was just like, ‘I can’t do this anymore.’”

At another point, she said, their son Hobie, then age 11, hit his head and had to be examined by a medic. Henry, who was 9 at the time, got a fever. And Hallie, then age 6, developed a deep blister that briefly prevented her from walking.

Then there was the day Cindy noticed blood on her shirt while carrying Hazel.

“I was thinking, ‘Oh, my gosh, there’s something wrong with Hazel. Did her leg chafe in the baby carrier? Did she get cut on something?’” Cindy said.

The blood turned out to be coming from a leech on Cindy’s stomach.

At another point in the trip, she said, the whole family pulled leeches off their feet.

The Matulis kids at Everest Base Camp in 2022.

Still, Cindy said, “You don’t have the distractions of cleaning your house, technology — you’re just in nature, walking and talking, and you learn so much about your kids.”

Now, she added, her children are proud of what they accomplished.

David Šifra, a 51-year-old adventurer who lives in Malaysia with his wife and kids, similarly said he watched Zara develop self-esteem on the trail as people congratulated her. The biggest challenge, he said, was getting his daughter to stay bundled in her sleeping bag.

“At night, she was always climbing out,” David said. “I just put her back and she screamed, ‘Let me go! Let me go!’”

His kids were used to doing 3-to-6-mile hikes every day, David said, so he wasn’t concerned about their strength. But a doctor told him to be careful about the temperature, which was just above freezing at night at that time of year.

The Šifra family took 18 days to reach Base Camp, after starting farther West than the standard hike, in a town called Jiri.

David said Zara is "so strong now mentally — she talks directly to the adults."

Overall, McIntosh said, there’s no real threshold for how old kids have to be before going to Base Camp: “Children are fairly resilient.”

travel her way everest base camp

Aria Bendix is the breaking health reporter for NBC News Digital.

travel her way everest base camp

10 Essential Tips For A Successful Everest Base Camp Trek

A sk any experienced traveler who's trekked through the Everest Base Camp trail, and they'll claim it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience just not worth missing out on. And they wouldn't be wrong. The grandeur of the Nepali Himalayas can elicit a sublime experience and humble any globetrotter.

Stretching across 130-KM in roundtrip, the Everest Base Camp trek is one of the most challenging trekking trails. Reaching the base of the world's tallest mountain is no easy feat. But it's not impossible either. Put one foot after another, enjoy the view, and remember to follow these 10 tips for a successful Everest Base Camp trek.

RELATED: Pennine Way: Hiking The U.K.’s Most Famous Three-Week Trek

Pack And Equip The Right Gear

The importance of having the right gear for the Everest Base Camp trek cannot be overstated. The trekkers must carry enduring trekking shoes and try them out before the hike to avoid blisters and chafing. A down jacket is a must to fight off the chilly wind during the night, but a light jacket layered with a warm t-shirt should suffice during the day's walk. Apart from that, pain and antidiarrheal medications, toilet papers, trekking poles, light gloves, torchlight, power bank and thermos, and raincoats are essential.

Acclimatize To Avoid Altitude Sickness

The major reason most Everest Base Camp treks go unfinished is because of altitude sickness. Trekkers need to acclimatize their bodies by staying in moderately elevated locations like Namche Bazaar and Lukla for a day or two. Carrying medications against altitude sickness can also come in handy. Despite the preparation, though, some trekkers may encounter altitudinal illness. Its recognizable symptoms include headache, dizziness, nausea, loss of appetite, and vomiting, among others. It's crucial that trekkers begin descending at the first sign of altitudinal sickness to avoid any further risks.

RELATED: Trekking Nepal: 10 Best Routes Besides Everest Basecamp

Train Prior To The Trek

The trek to Everest Base Camp begins at a staggering height of about 2,900 m. and only gets higher thereon. The high altitude, combined with steep uphill paths, rocky terrain, and gradually diminishing oxygen levels, can make the trek quite tricky. But it doesn't necessarily have to be this difficult. In order to ease the journey, trekkers need to train for about a month before the trip, building stamina and endurance and strengthening their legs through training.

Don't Forget Your Sunscreen

The weather at the Everest Base Camp trail can be quite deceiving. While the path and the destination remain at a freezing cold temperature, it's important to remember that the sun also burns intensely. Unfortunately, most trekkers ignore the rather unintuitive heat of Everest and head off without packing sunscreen. Big mistake! The risk of sunburn on the path to Everest can be very severe. It can cause swelling, blisters, and immense pain and increase skin cancer probability. It is recommended that trekkers carry sunscreen with SPF 50 and apply it multiple times a day.

Prepare To Remain Off-Grid

Most trekkers visit the Everest base camp to experience the ultimate Himalayan wilderness. And that's what they should expect. However, this sublime wilderness does come at the cost of compromised cell phone reception. While the trekkers will find phone reception and WiFi in some lodges and resting points, provided they're lucky, the network is primarily unpredictable and unstable.

Bring Your Own Snacks And Beverages

Having a good snack in-between extensive hikes can feel like the ultimate luxury. While the shops and lodges throughout the trail will have refreshments, they will be expensive. And the cost only goes on to increase with the elevation. This isn't a scam, though. Since there are no roads, most of the goods need to be transported by animals or humans, which can be very expensive. This is why carrying a few chocolate bars and tea packers will help bring the cost of the trek down significantly.

RELATED: She’s Summited Everest 9 Times: Meet Lhakpa Sherpa, A World Record-Holder

Know When To Give Up

The harsh truth about the Everest Base Camp trek is that not everyone is going to complete the journey. And there's no shame in that. After all, the trail is known for being among the most challenging trekking routes. Everyone has their own limits. It's important that they recognize it and listen to their body. If one feels strained and unable to continue, it's crucial that they rest and head back. The Everest Base Camp isn't going anywhere. The trekker can try again after recovery or even next year.

Since the trekkers will be hiking along the Himalayan wilderness, they won't have easy access to cash. There are only two locations throughout the trail that have ATMs — Namche Bazar and Lukla. So, the trekkers must carry adequate cash with them to ensure they have enough money for lodging and food. Besides that, they might also want to purchase snacks and souvenirs or tip their guides and servers, all of which will require cash.

Go Vegetarian For A Week

Trekkers might be tempted to end their day of the hard walk with a hearty meal filled with red and white meat. But it is strongly recommended that they avoid meat of any kind throughout the trekking trail. As mentioned earlier, the lack of roads makes logistics at Everest Base Camp Trial quite difficult, and it's not unusual for meat to remain in an unrefrigerated condition for days until reaching the trekking region. But rest assured; the lodges will have plenty of delicious vegetarian meals to satiate your hunger.

RELATED: 10 Amazing Facts To Know About Everest Base Camp

Have A Few Days Of Flexibility In Your Itinerary

The adventures in the Himalayas can be unpredictable and treacherous. Lukla Airport, the starting point for the Everest Base Camp trek, is known for being one of the most dangerous airports in the world. So, it's not uncommon for flights to get delayed by a few days due to poor weather conditions. And even after reaching the trail, the journey might get obstructed by landslides or other unfavorable natural hurdles. Therefore, Trekkers should be flexible with their plans and prepare to extend their trip by a few days if necessary. There is much to see throughout the Everest Base Camp trek , and visitors would want to slow down and absorb all sights to make the best of their trip.

10 Essential Tips For A Successful Everest Base Camp Trek

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travel her way everest base camp

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IMAGES

  1. Women Adventure Travel: Everest Base Camp Trek

    travel her way everest base camp

  2. Women Adventure Travel: Everest Base Camp Trek

    travel her way everest base camp

  3. Everest Base Camp Trek: The Ultimate Guide

    travel her way everest base camp

  4. Women Adventure Travel: Everest Base Camp Trek

    travel her way everest base camp

  5. Everest Base Camp Trek

    travel her way everest base camp

  6. Women Adventure Travel: Everest Base Camp Trek

    travel her way everest base camp

COMMENTS

  1. Women Adventure Travel: Everest Base Camp Trek

    Day 10: Lobuche (4,940m/16,207ft) - Everest Base Camp (5,380m/17,600ft) - Gorakshep (5,164m/16,942ft) Today is the day we will finally reach our ultimate destination! The higher altitude makes today's trekking quite challenging. ... Travel HER Way exclusives: One-hour Complimentary Spa. Accommodations & Meals: Accommodations: Kathmandu Guest ...

  2. POV: You Trek to Everest Base Camp

    This adventure starts well before the actual trek itself. It requires long-term planning, training, strengthening, and packing. But from the moment we step on the plane for that international flight, the excitement rushes in and doesn't stop. Join us for the journey of Everest Base Camp with Travel Her Way, from absolute start to finish…

  3. Everest Base Camp Helicopter Trek

    Everest Base Camp Trek. Length: 15 Days Price (USD): $2,199. Reserve your spot by making a $400 deposit which will never expire! Learn more about our lifetime deposit. Care He

  4. Trekking to Everest Base Camp

    Three months ago, I made it to the base camp of Mount Everest in Nepal. It is taking me so long to blog about it, primarily because I don't know where to start. I like to write, but when I write, organization is a huge struggle. The fact that there is so much to say and so hard to organize

  5. Travel Her Way

    1440 W. Taylor St # 623, Chicago, IL, 60607, United States. [email protected]. Travel Her Way is an adventure travel company for women. We provide small group tours to bucket-list destinations for women. Our dream is to help women connect, grow, and share authentic experiences. We don't just sightsee - we touch, feel, and taste, too!

  6. Remaining Balance: Everest Base Camp

    Everest Base Camp Trek. Length: 15 Days Remaining Balance: $1,799 Care Her Way: One Trip, One Kid. For every trekking group that we bring to Nepal, we will cover a year's worth of education for one child. Let's do something great together! ... Travel Her Way. 1440 W. Taylor St # 623, Chicago, IL, 60607, United States. [email protected] ...

  7. Tours

    Tiffany's Private Group Adventure Deposit: Everest Base Camp Trek. $400.00 Deposit: Cathy's Private Inca Jungle Machu Picchu Trek . $400.00 Deposit: Kilimanjaro. $500.00 Remaining Balance: Kilimanjaro. ... Travel Her Way. 1440 W. Taylor St # 623, Chicago, IL, 60607, United States. [email protected]. Hours. Mon 9am to 5pm.

  8. How to trek to Everest Base Camp

    The thing that makes the EBC trek tough is the altitude. Base Camp is at 5600m (18,373ft) and you will need to spend one or two nights above 5000m (16,404ft). Above 4000m (13,123ft) you are going to feel increasingly lethargic and out of breath as the amount of oxygen in the air decreases. Combine this with the cold, the discomfort of being at ...

  9. The Everest Base Camp Trek: The Complete Guide

    Khumjung 56000, Nepal. Phone +1 682-558-3926. Web Visit website. Trekking to Everest Base Camp in Nepal's Sagarmatha National Park is the adventure of a lifetime. Although actually climbing Mount Everest is out of reach for many of us, anyone with enough grit and good enough fitness can reach EBC and the Khumbu Icefall, the starting point for ...

  10. Mount Everest Base Camp Trek: Nepal EBC Trekking Guide

    Trekking Distance. The one way trekking distance from Lukla to Mt Everest Base Camp is about 65 kilometers (40 miles). That means the total roundtrip distance of an EBC Trek is about 130 kilometers, even if you don't do any of the detours. Don't let that scare you off. It's a lot of hiking, but every step is worth it.

  11. The Everest Base Camp Trek in 12 Days

    12 Day Everest Base Camp Trek Itinerary. Day 1: Fly to Lukla, Hike to Phakding. Day 2: Phakding to Namche Bazaar. Day 3: Acclimatization Day. Day 4: Namche Bazaar to Tengboche. Day 5: Tengoche to Dingboche. Day 6: Acclimatization Day. Day 7: Dingboche to Lobuche. Day 8: Lobuche to Gorak Shep to EBC to Gorak Shep.

  12. How to Trek to Everest Base Camp: Your Questions, Answered

    The entire trek is 130 km (80 miles) round trip. This is the distance from Lukla to Everest Base Camp and then back to Lukla. However, there are several acclimatization days added to the itinerary. On these days, you will walk roughly 3 - 8 km, depending on the schedule. The bigger story is the elevation gain.

  13. Perfect Everest Base Camp Trek Itinerary

    Day 8: Dugla to Lobuche. Day 9: Lobuche to Gorak Shep to Everest Base Camp, back to Gorak Shep. Day 10: Gorak Shep to Kala Pattar to Lobuche. Day 11: Lobuche to Dzongla. Day 12: Dzongla over Cho La Pass to Gokyo. Day 13: Gokyo Sacred Lakes and Rest Day. Day 14: Climb Gokyo Ri then Gokyo to Dole.

  14. The ULTIMATE Everest Base Camp Trek Itinerary [2024]

    Altitude: Kathmandu (1 400m) - Lukla (2 860m) - Phakding (2 610m). Trekking time: 3-4 hours | 7,4 km. Difficulty: Easy with only a few uphill sections. Highlight: Flight into Lukla. Overview: The first day of your Everest Base Camp trek itinerary will start bright and early with a flight out of Kathmandu to the infamous Tenzing Hillary Airport in Lukla.

  15. Everest Base Camp Trek: The Ultimate Guide

    EVEREST BASE CAMP TREK DETAILS. Distance: 120 km round-trip from Lukla to Base Camp and back to Lukla (You will fly to Lukla from Kathmandu); Days required: 12 -14 days; Total Incline: (Undulation) - 6015 m; Total Decline:(Undulation) - 5821 m; The highest point on the trek: 5640 m/18 500 ft, this is actually at Kala Patthar, which you will hike to in the morning after reaching Everest ...

  16. The Ultimate Everest Base Camp Trek Guide

    Example of a 13 day Everest Base Camp trek itinerary: Day: Arrival & trekking preparation day in Kathmandu. Day 01: Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,800m) -30 munities, trek to Phakding (2,640m) -3 to 4 hours. Day 02: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,430m) -5 to 6 hours. Day 03: Acclimatization in Namche Bazaar and visit Khumjung Village (3,790m) Day ...

  17. Everest Base Camp Trek

    On the map, the Everest Base Camp trekking route distances look fairly easy to hike from village to village through the Khumbu Valley. Eight days may seem like it would be more than enough time to cover a mere 63 km (39 miles) one way, (128 km return) but with several sustained days in a row above 4000 meters (13,000 feet), the walk is slow and steady.

  18. Everest Base Camp Trek: Planning, Location, Cost & Route Guide ...

    Everest Base Camp Trek cost. The standard cost for one person ranges from USD 1,200 to USD 1,500 (INR 99,098 to INR 1,23,872; conversion done at the time of writing) for a period of twelve to fourteen days. This package will mostly include round-trip flights from Kathmandu to Lukla, permits, accommodation and meals.

  19. Meet the families who've taken children as young as 2 to Everest Base Camp

    When her daughter, Arishka, was just 6 years old, Dimple Laddha took her to Everest Base Camp. The camp sits at an elevation of around 17,600 feet, where the oxygen concentration is nearly 50% ...

  20. Families have taken children as young as 2 to Everest Base Camp

    When her daughter, Arishka, was just 6 years old, Dimple Laddha took her to Everest Base Camp. The camp sits at an elevation of around 17,600 feet, where the oxygen concentration is nearly 50% ...

  21. 10 Essential Tips For A Successful Everest Base Camp Trek

    RELATED: Trekking Nepal: 10 Best Routes Besides Everest Basecamp Train Prior To The Trek . The trek to Everest Base Camp begins at a staggering height of about 2,900 m. and only gets higher thereon.

  22. Partizanskaya (Moscow Metro) to Elektrostal

    The cheapest way to get from Partizanskaya (Moscow Metro) to Elektrostal costs only RUB 358, and the quickest way takes just 54 mins. Find the travel option that best suits you. Travel within Russia is: Unrestricted. See details. I want to see hotel recommendations when using Rome2rio

  23. Metro

    This free independent travel guide to Russia exists thanks to the commission we get when you order these hand-picked trusted third-party services or when you buy our book. Please, support us! ... Way to Russia is the leading travel guide to Russia, established in 2001 and visited by more than 1.5 Mln people every year. It is recommended by The ...

  24. Elektrostal' Travel Guide 2024

    何游天下. The Red Square is located in the center of Moscow, Russia, is a famous square in Russia. It is also the venue for major events in Moscow and is one of the famous landmarks in Moscow. There is also Vasili Ascension Cathedral nearby. . St. Basil's Cathedral. เด็กน้อยในมอสโก. Very beautiful, give full marks.

  25. The flag of Elektrostal, Moscow Oblast, Russia which I bought there

    Its a city in the Moscow region. As much effort they take in making nice flags, as low is the effort in naming places. The city was founded because they built factories there.