Everest Base Camp Trek – a perfect cup of tea for trekkers. Trekking in Nepal certainly is an option included in the bucket list of many trekkers, especially Everest Trekking. Every year, there are thousands of visitors traveling to Nepal in order to explore and discover the beauty of Nepal. The majority are trekkers and among those trekkers, most of them prefer Everest Base Camp Trek as their sole dream destination. Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the most selected packages for trekking in Nepal. With the beginning of spring season, the bookings of Everest Base Camp Trek rises abruptly. Trekking in the Everest region is a trip of the lifetime and spending an unforgettable time at the lap of the highest mountain in the Earth i.e. Mount Everest aka Sagarmatha (in the Nepali language) is the feat of a lifetime.
Home to the eight highest peaks in the world, no trekkers can keep themselves away from the mesmerizing effect of the mighty Himalayan ranges. The adrenaline rush of the adventure lovers and thrill seekers always make them step on the Himalayas with the determination to reach the summit. The enthusiasm for discovering the amazing nature of the exquisite Everest region and the traditional culture, which is untouched by the modernization of the 21st century is appealing. An organized Everest Base Camp Trek for 14 days is an exclusive offer that led to the top of the World. The packages are tailored in different ways such as Solo trek or Group trek (assisted or unassisted). Various agencies are there to provide multiple packages and do the complete documentation required to do the trekking in the Everest region. A hassle-free trekking package to Everest Base Camp is the sole motto of Step on Himalaya so that the valued guests can have a satisfying experience.
Everest Base Camp Trek itinerary:
Day 01: Flight to Lukla (2,800m) from Kathmandu and then Trek to Phakding (2,652m)
Day 02: Phakding (2,652m) to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
Day 03: 1st Acclimatization at Namche Bazaar
Day 04: Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,860m)
Day 05: Tengboche to Dingboche (4,410m)
Day 06: 2nd Acclimatization at Dingboche
Day 07: Dingboche to Lobuche (4,949m)
Day 08: Lobuche to Everest Base Camp (5,364m) via Gorakshep and back to Gorakshep (5,164m) (You've made it!!)
Day 09: Gorekshep to Kala Patthar (5643m) and trek to Pheriche (4,371m)
Day 10: Pheriche to Namche Bazaar
Day 11: Namche Bazaar to Phakding and Lukla
Day 12: Flight Back to Kathmandu from Lukla
Ways to reach Everest Base Camp
Everest Base Camp is one of the famous trekking routes in the world. Likewise, there are options on how to choose to do the trekking to Everest Base Camp. Walking is the major part of the trekking. The standard route is one can take a flight to Lukla and then walk ahead towards the destination which is the package for Everest Base Camp Trek for 14 days. The other choice is the classical trail through Jiri. This is the longest route. The expensive and shortest but exciting alternative is Helicopter tour to Everest Base Camp.
Independent or Assisted Everest Base Camp Trek
There is always a question about going solo trek trip to Everest Base Camp or in a group. It is actually possible to go independently to EBC but if you are a stranger to the place, it is always better to ask for assistance through trekking agencies. The main benefit of the hiring agency is safety together with the accomplishment of all the necessary documentation required for trekking to Everest Base Camp. Accommodation and meals will be arranged by the trekking guide. Porters will help you carry the luggage.
If you want a solo trek, you will be spending a day or two for the paperwork. You have to book the flight or bus or jeep for land transportation by yourself. There is a chance of being misguided if you do not know the place. The language barrier sometimes also can be an issue in the mountains. Self-trekking is possible and recommended to those who already know the mountains, the rugged pathways, and the unexpected alterations in the climate or weather of the mountains.
If you join a group, the cost might be cut down to some extent and can be more entertaining rather than walking alone. If you end up getting sick in the mountains, you will really appreciate the trekking guide or the company that you are with.
Cost of Everest Base Camp Trek
The cost of Everest Base Camp Trek differs if the trek is independent or organized by agency. If totally depends accordingly to the services provided by the trekking agency.
Like, the package for EBC trek with an international agency will be costing a little higher than that with the local agency. However, the hiring guide and porter also might add up to your package cost. Independent trekking will definitely be low in cost. Solo trekkers can look into Everest Base Camp Budget Trek which is quite feasible.
Weather / Climate on Everest Base Camp Trek
Everest Base Camp trekking can opt at any time of the year, however, March to May and Mid-September to December are considered the best time to visit. Monsoon months (July to mid-September) give you muddy, slippery roads, and the views are almost always covered with clouds. So, it is better to avoid the trek during the rainy season. The normal temperature during the winter season i.e. December to March is usually – 10 to – 15 degrees Celsius in the morning hours and 15 to 18 degrees Celsius during nights. Likewise, the temperature during Mid-September to December is – 05 to – 10 degrees Celsius in the morning hours and 15 to 20 degrees Celsius during nights.
Alterations in weather are always expected. There are downpours sometimes during a perfect sunny day too. So you have to be ready with raincoats and warm clothes.
Permits for Everest Base Camp Trek
Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the popular tourist hubs. Permits to explore the region is a must. There are several permits and a bunch of paperwork to clear to get those permits to trek in the Everest region. Initially, TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management Systems) was only required but this is now optional. There are other three essential permits for Everest Base Camp Trek which were made compulsory after the new decentralized system. Those permits are for the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural area, Sagarmatha National Park, and Gaurishankar Conservation area.
The permit for the Gaurishankar Conservation area is only required if you are taking the classical route through Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek.
Carrying all the primary identification proofs like passport, Identity card, Visa, etc. is just as they are regularly checked at the check-points and sometimes you have to fill up some forms for identification purposes.
To Hire Guides and Porters or not on Everest Base Camp Trek
Assistance is always a boon. Trekking alone is sometimes risky as the place is unknown and the communication barrier might be a halt while trekking to Everest Base Camp. Trekking guides are well-experienced, English speaking, and know how to handle any critical situations. Most of the locals running restaurants, lodges, guest houses, tea houses along the porters know English very well but sometimes a misunderstanding can create an issue. Hiring trekking guides and porters actually help in the trekking experience and to deal with any problems. It is just you have to bear their expenses and the insurances once you employ them. A porter can carry 25 kgs maximum for two persons.
Insurances while on Everest Base Camp Trek
Medical Insurance is a must for travelers. Wherever you go, it is always beneficial. God forbid you mustn't feel ill during the trip but if ever you will, medical insurance means a lot at that time of crisis. Emergency Evacuation Insurance is always recommended as the sick or injured person will have to be evacuated by helicopter due to a lack of proper land transportation in the mountains. Read the Insurance policy in detail before buying it. Make sure the Insurance covers the evacuation, injury, loss of equipment or gear, trip cancellation, or delays during the trekking to Everest Base Camp.
Expenses during Everest Base Camp Trek
There are some extra expenses during Everest Base Camp Trek such as the internet, hot showers, snacks, bottled water, laundry, extra blanket, charging electronic devices, etc. If you are a solo trekker, you will be spending on rooms and meals by yourself. If you have hired us, we will take care of accommodation and food during the trekking period as it is included in the package of Everest Base Camp Trek. The prices in the Everest Base Camp route will surely be higher than the normal rates and it gets higher as you rise up.
Prevention of Altitude Mountain Sickness (AMS)
The basic definition of Altitude Mountain Sickness is the condition caused by rapid exposure to a low amount of oxygen at the high elevations. The usual symptoms of AMS are headache, vomiting, fatigue, trouble sleeping, drowsiness, and dizziness. It is very common during the Everest Base Camp Trekking as some of the trekkers do not wait for acclimatization and try to attain higher elevations quickly. This gives the negative effect of the inability to breathe adequately as the amount of oxygen gets less as you go up high. One must climb slower and if any symptoms are seen, you must wait until you be able to walk further without any health issues. Acclimatization for a day or two is a must during trekking to Everest Base Camp. The stop-by for acclimatization for Everest Trekking is mostly Namche and Dingboche. Hydration is a must. Stay hydrated. Carry a water bottle along with. Do not ignore and push yourself for further trekking if you have any of the symptoms of AMS.
Packing tips for Everest Base Camp Trek
Lightweight clothes, essential items, and required documents should be carried along with the trekking. Duffle bag will be a better option to pack all the necessary items like clothes, shoes, socks, toiletries, chargers, binoculars, cameras, etc. Passport and other essential documents are safe to keep in a belt bag or personal backpack. Basic medicines and a first aid kit are also useful.
Go through the Complete List for Equipment and Gears during Everest Base Camp Trekking.
More Information about Everest Base Camp Trek
FAQs About Everest Base Camp Trek You Need to Know
Everest Base Camp Trek Route on Google Maps
How to Reach the Everest Base Camp
A warm welcome at Tribhuvan International Airport by the representative of Step On Himalaya followed by transfer to the Hotel and then briefing about the program in the evening. Overnight stay at the hotel in Kathmandu. Dinner included
An early morning flight from Kathmandu to Lukla which will take about 30 – 35 mins. After landing in Lukla, you will trek about 3 – 4 hours towards Phakding via Chaurikharka village following the trail of Dudh Koshi river. We will wander around the Phakding or take rest at the hotel. Overnight stay in Phakding with 3 meals.
After taking breakfast in Phakding, we will gear up ourselves and head towards Namche Bazaar, the buzzing trade center of Everest region. It will take about 5 – 6hours to reach Namche Bazaar from Phakding passing via dense pine forest to Monjo. Then we will reach Sagarmatha National Park and then to Jorsale. We will take lunch here at Jorsale then reach Namche Bazaar crossing the Hillary suspension bridge. As soon as we reach Namche Bazaar, our eyes will be retreated by the sight of Mt. Everest and other adjoining snowy peaks. Overnight stay with 3 meals.
Acclimatization is necessary to avoid the bad weather and to prevent the acute mountain sickness. So, the acclimatization must be done. We will explore the Namche Bazaar(3440m) and surrounding areas today. There is a Sherpa Museum where we can see the equipment for trekking and mountaineering and the antiques of Sherpa culture. Namche Bazaar is the central hub for the trades so it is always buzzing. Rest or explore. A choice is yours. Overnight stay at Namche Bazaar with 3 meals.
We will start our journey from Namche Bazaar(3440m) to Tengboche(3870m). We will fuel ourselves by eating breakfast and then begin the walk enjoying the scenic views of Himalayas. Embracing the cool weather, we will pass by small settlements, chortens, fields, and forests of pines and fir. The gradual ups and downs will lead us to Tengboche, another beautiful village of Everest region. There is a Tengboche monastery where we can visit and enjoy the spirituality. The pious environment of the monastery will give us peace. Overnight stay with 3 meals.
We will start trekking from Tengboche (3870m) to Dingboche (4400m) passing via Deboche and Pangboche. The trail will pass through the bridge over the Imja Khola river. On the way, we will pass by Sherpa settlements and have lunch. There is a Pangboche monastery on the way where we can spend some time. The walk will end at Dingboche after walking for about 6 – 7 hours. Overnight stay with 3 meals.
Another day for acclimatization at Dingboche (4400m). This day gives us the opportunity to relax and stretch the legs before the hike up to Everest Base Camp. We can utilize the day exploring the natural and geographical beauty of Dingboche. Enjoying the majestic views of the Himalayas with Island Peak, we will take rest for the day and be prepared for tomorrow’s ascent.
After enjoying the breakfast, we will hike up gradually to an elevation of 4900m i.e. Lobuche from Dingboche (4400m). On the way, we can see many memorial stupas built in the memory of the trekkers and mountain climbers who lost their valuable lives on the way to Everest. Walking for about 6 – 7hours and enjoying the attractive views of Mt. Pumori, Mt. Lobuche, Mt. Nuptse, etc, we will finally reach our destination. Overnight stay at Lobuche with 3 meals.
The day of triumph – reaching Everest Base Camp (5364m). We will walk from Lobuche passing via the settlements, rocky trails, amazing moraines, the glaciers and the stunning slopes of Everest. We will slowly reach the Everest Base Camp after walking for about 6 – 8hours. We can take unlimited photographs of breathtaking scenes of the mighty Himalayas for the lifetime memory. As the sun gradually sets down, we will return to Gorakshep (5180m) and rest there at the teahouse in Gorakshep. 3 meals included.
From the elevation of 5180m, we will hike up at dawn to reach Kala Patthar (5545m) for the mesmerizing view of the sunrise over the snow-capped Himalayas. Kala Patthar is the best vintage point for the view of the Mt. Everest and other neighboring peaks like Mt. Changtse, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Nuptse, etc. The first light of the sunrise over the gigantic Himalayas is the one-time opportunity to capture the moment in the camera for the lifetime memory. After spending some time here in Kala Patthar, we will head back to Gorakshep, have our breakfast and ready again to walk towards Pheriche (4320m). The walk will be much faster as we descend down to Pheriche and stay overnight here with 3 meals.
Early morning walk from Pheriche to Namche via Tengboche is descent. It will take about 7 – 8hours and we will arrive at Namche Bazaar by late afternoon. After dinner, we will take rest for the day.
Last day of trekking on the mountain, we will walk from Namche Bazaar to Phakding and then to Lukla. We will cross the Hillary Suspension Bridge as before and then we will slowly walk down to Lukla. The dream of conquering Mt. Everest is achieved. Last Overnight stay and 3 meals in the mountains.
The same thrilling flight from Lukla to Kathmandu enjoying the scenic views of the Himalayas from the flight. After landing in Kathmandu, the representative of Step On Himalaya will transfer you to the hotel for freshening up. Then you can either rest or walk around or do shopping of souvenirs or gifts. A farewell dinner from the team of Step On Himalaya.
The final day in Nepal with the early morning breakfast. You will be then transferred to the Tribhuvan International Airport at least 3 hours before the scheduled time of the flight. Here ends the service of the Step On Himalaya but we will always be ready to welcome and serve you again.