Trip Description
Everest Base Camp Trek
Trip Overview
The Everest Base Camp Trek is more than just a checkmark on a trekker's bucket list—it’s a journey that transcends expectations. As you trek to the base of the world’s tallest mountain, Mount Everest (8,848.86m), you not only embrace the grandeur of nature but also connect deeply with the Sherpa people, who have lived in the shadow of the Himalayas for centuries, offering an authentic and enriching experience.
You’ll trace the historic path of legendary mountaineers Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa, walking in their footsteps through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sagarmatha National Park. This protected area is home to incredible wildlife and unique flora and fauna. Along the way, you’ll immerse yourself in the simplicity of remote mountain life, Sherpa culture, and awe-inspiring landscapes.
The Everest trek introduces you to iconic landmarks like the Hillary Bridge, ancient Buddhist monasteries, the stunning Khumbu Glacier, and the perilous Khumbu Icefall. Every step you take in the Everest region offers breathtaking mountain views, with the striking presence of Ama Dablam—a mountain often referred to as the “Mother’s Necklace”—accompanying you throughout much of the journey.
Trekking through this region isn’t just about scaling altitudes; it’s about experiencing the contrasts of life in the Himalayas—from the modest, traditional Sherpa homes to the towering, majestic peaks that dominate the skyline. The trek’s highlight includes witnessing an unforgettable sunrise from the highest viewpoint, Kala Patthar, which offers panoramic views of Everest and its surrounding giants.
The Everest Base Camp trek is an emotional journey for many, filled with moments of reflection, especially when passing through the Everest memorials, where stories of courage, sacrifice, and adventure are honored. Despite its challenges, the region holds a magical appeal that draws trekkers back time and again.
To complete the Everest Base Camp Trek is to feel the joy of accomplishment, joining the ranks of those who have experienced one of Nepal’s most iconic and life-changing adventures.
Top 10 Highlights of the Everest Base Camp Trek:
- Thrilling Flight to Lukla: Your adventure begins with a dramatic flight to Lukla Airport, known for its short runway and high-altitude setting. Also called Tenzing Hillary Airport, it’s a thrilling start to the trek.
- Explore Sagarmatha National Park: Trek through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sagarmatha National Park, home to exotic wildlife like snow leopards, Himalayan Tahr, yaks, and the colorful Himalayan Monal.
- Tenzing Hillary Suspension Bridge: Cross the iconic Tenzing Hillary Suspension Bridge, named after the legendary Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa. This scenic bridge, adorned with prayer flags, offers breathtaking views of the valley below.
- Namche Bazaar - Largest Sherpa Village: Stay at Namche Bazaar, the largest Sherpa village in the Khumbu region. Enjoy stunning views of Kongde Ri, Thamserku, and Ama Dablam, along with distant views of Everest from this bustling village.
- Hike to Hotel Everest View: Take a side trip to Hotel Everest View (3,880m), listed by the Guinness Book of World Records as the highest luxury hotel in the world. It offers a fantastic panorama of Everest and surrounding peaks.
- Tengboche Monastery: Visit the Tengboche Monastery, the largest Buddhist monastery in the region, and take part in the daily rituals. Its setting against the backdrop of Ama Dablam and Everest is unforgettable.
- Nangkartshang Peak Viewpoint: Hike to Nangkartshang Peak, the only viewpoint on the trek where you can see Mt. Makalu (8,485m), the world’s fifth-highest mountain. The views here are simply spectacular.
- Khumbu Glacier and Surrounding Peaks: Trek through Lobuche and Gorakshep villages to reach Everest Base Camp, passing by the awe-inspiring Khumbu Glacier with towering peaks all around.
- Conquer Everest Base Camp (5,364m): Reach the ultimate goal of the trek at Everest Base Camp, standing at 5,364 meters. From here, you get an up-close view of the dramatic Khumbu Icefall, where climbers begin their ascent.
- Sunrise at Kala Patthar: Witness an unforgettable sunrise from Kala Patthar (5,545m), one of the best viewpoints in the region. The sight of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam bathed in morning light is a breathtaking experience.
- Everest Base Camp Route Overview:
- The adventure of the Everest Base Camp Trek begins when you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. A representative from the trekking team warmly welcomes you and arranges your transfer to the hotel.
- You’ll spend two nights in Kathmandu before taking a scenic flight to Lukla Airport (Tenzing Hillary Airport). Depending on the season, your flight may depart from Kathmandu Domestic Airport or Manthali Airport in Ramechhap.
- Upon landing in Lukla, the trek starts with a hike to Phakding, passing through the village of Chheplung. From there, you’ll continue toward Namche Bazaar, the largest Sherpa settlement in the Khumbu region, crossing the famous Tenzing Hillary Bridge along the way.
- Namche Bazaar is a lively village where you’ll stay for an acclimatization day. This day includes short hikes to Hotel Everest View, the Sagarmatha National Park Headquarters, the Sherpa Culture Museum, and a photo gallery that showcases the beauty of the region.
- Next, the journey continues to Tengboche, home to the largest Buddhist monastery in the Khumbu region, the Tengboche Monastery. Along the way, you’ll pass through Deboche, the Pangboche village (which has the oldest Gompa in the region), and Somare, before reaching your stop in Dingboche.
- You’ll spend an extra day in Dingboche to acclimatize, with a rewarding hike to Nangkartshang Peak, the only viewpoint on the trek where you can see Mt. Makalu (8,485m), the fifth-highest mountain in the world.
- As you ascend higher, you’ll pass the Everest memorials at Thukla Pass, honoring climbers who lost their lives on the mountain. After this reflective moment, you’ll continue to Lobuche, which offers a deeper connection to the history and challenges of mountaineering.
- From Lobuche, you’ll trek toward Gorakshep, with breathtaking views of the Khumbu Glacier along the way. This leads you to the highlight of the trek, the Everest Base Camp.
- Reaching Everest Base Camp is an incredible achievement. You’ll celebrate this milestone with your fellow trekkers and Sherpas, taking in the magnificence of the Himalayas before returning to Gorakshep for the night.
- The following morning, you’ll hike to Kala Patthar, the best viewpoint for an unforgettable sunrise over Mount Everest, along with views of Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumori, Lingtren, and Khumbutse.
- After this magical experience, you’ll descend back through Pheriche, revisiting Tengboche, Namche, and Phakding, before concluding your trek in Lukla. You’ll then return to Kathmandu for a well-deserved rest, followed by your departure flight—until the next adventure!
If you need any adjustments for your Everest trek, the Nepal Hiking Team is here to help. Feel free to reach out to us anytime!
Alternative Options for Everest Trek
The 16-day Everest Base Camp Trek is undeniably captivating, but if the classic route doesn't quite fit your preferences, we offer several other exciting options worth considering!
- 14-Day Everest Base Camp Trek: This is a shorter version of the 16-day trek. The primary difference lies in the duration of your stay in Kathmandu. Both treks follow the same route, but the 14-day option is designed for those with limited time. It cuts out one night before and one night after the trek in the city, making it a more time-efficient adventure.
- Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return (12 Days): For an exhilarating mix of trekking and a thrilling helicopter ride, this 12-day trip is perfect. After trekking to Everest Base Camp, you’ll enjoy a scenic helicopter flight from Gorakshep back to Lukla. It’s an excellent option for those who want a unique experience while saving time on the return journey.
- Everest Base Camp Luxury Trek (14 Days): This option is ideal for trekkers seeking both adventure and comfort. The Luxury Trek offers overnight stays in luxury mountain lodges (where available) along the trek, and your accommodation in Kathmandu will be in a 5-star hotel both before and after the trek. It’s a perfect blend of high-altitude adventure with a touch of indulgence.
Everest Base Camp trekking Itinerary
Day 1: Your arrival at Tribhuvan Intrenational Airport (TIA) (1345m) and you will be meet our airport representative then transfer to hotel. we will disscuss the trekking plan and last minute arrangements.
Day 2: From kathmandu to Lukla (2886m) flight 30 to 35 minutes and trek to Phakding (2610m) walking 3/4 hours. overnight at lodge.
Day 3: Trek from Phakding to Namchhe Bazar (3440m) walking 6 hours. overnight at lodge.
Day 3: Explore day in Namchhe Bazar.
Day 4: Trek from Namchhe Bazar to Tyangbouche (3867m). walking 5 hours. overnight at lodge.
Day 6: Trek from Tyangbouche to Dingbouche (4440m) walking 6 hours. overnight at lodge.
Day 7: Explore day in Dingbouche.
Day 8: Trek from Dingbouche to Lobuche (4920m) walking 6 hours.overnight at lodge.
Day 9 : trek from Lobuche to Gorekshep (5152m). walking 4 hours. after lunch trek to Everest base camp (5363m) and back to Gorekshep overnight at lodge.
Day 10: Hiking up to Kalapatthar (5545m) then trek back to Pherichhe (4250m) walking 8 hours. overnight at lodge.
Day 11: Trek from Pherichhe (4250m) to Namchhe Bazar (3440m) walking 7 hours. overnight at lodge
Day 12: Trek from Namchhe Bazar(3440m) to Lukla (2886m) walking 8 hours. overnight at lodge.
Day 13: Early in the morning flight from lukla to Kathmandu . overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 14: Transfer to international airport for your final flight depature
What's Included ?
- Comprehensive ground transportation in a private vehicle, encompassing airport transfers.
- Four nights of lodging with breakfast at a reputable 3-star hotel in Kathmandu.
- Three meals daily (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), complemented by tea or coffee during the trekking expedition.
- Superior twin-sharing lodges for accommodations throughout the trek, featuring private bathrooms and hot showers available at Phakding, Namche, and Lukla.
- Seasonal fruit snacks provided during the trek.
- An exceptionally skilled, amiable, and supportive guide to enhance your experience.
- Porters (one for every two travelers), with all expenses covered, including their food, lodging, salary, equipment, and accident insurance for all staff members.
- Round-trip airfare to and from Lukla, including necessary transfers (please note: flights may be routed through Ramechhap Airport during peak season).
- Provision of a down jacket and sleeping bag for the trek.
- A duffle bag designated for your trekking gear.
- A trekking map along with a trip achievement certificate to commemorate your journey.
- A first aid kit equipped with an oximeter for monitoring oxygen levels and heart rates.
- All requisite documentation and permits, including the entry permit fee for Sagarmatha National Park (please provide two passport-sized photographs for the permit).
- Applicable government taxes and office service charges.
What is not included ?
- Meals, including lunches and dinners, during your stay in Kathmandu.
- Individual travel insurance.
- Airfare for international flights.
- Visa fees for entry into Nepal.
- Snacks and miscellaneous personal expenditures.
- Availability of hot showers throughout the trek, with the exception of locations such as Phakding, Namche, and Lukla.
- Personal trekking gear and equipment.
- Internet access via Wi-Fi and phone call charges, unless provided free of charge.
Gratuities and tips for trekking staff and drivers.
Detailed Itinerary for Everest Base Camp Trek
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
- Morning: Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, where you will be greeted by a representative from your trekking company.
- Transfer: You will be transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. Take time to relax and acclimate to the new environment.
- Afternoon: You can explore Thamel, the bustling tourist district, visit local shops, or enjoy some traditional Nepali cuisine.
- Evening: Attend a pre-trek briefing where you’ll meet your guide and fellow trekkers. Confirm your trekking gear and finalize any last-minute details.
Day 02: Fly to Lukla or Drive to Manthali/Ramechhap & Trek to Phakding
- Early Morning: Enjoy breakfast at your hotel.
- Flight to Lukla: Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla, a scenic flight with breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Upon arrival, your trekking journey begins.
- Alternative Route: If you choose to drive to Manthali/Ramechhap, you will take a scenic road trip before flying to Lukla.
- Trek to Phakding: After landing, begin your trek to Phakding, a picturesque village situated along the Dudh Koshi River (approximately 3-4 hours of trekking).
- Accommodation: Arrive in Phakding and check into a teahouse for the night. Enjoy dinner and rest.
Day 03: Trek to Namche Bazaar from Phakding
- Morning: After breakfast, begin your trek to Namche Bazaar. The trail will take you through beautiful pine forests and cross several suspension bridges.
- Afternoon: The trek will be approximately 6-7 hours, leading you up to Namche Bazaar, the gateway to the Everest region.
- Accommodation: Check into your teahouse in Namche Bazaar. Take some time to explore the town, which has shops, cafes, and stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at the teahouse and prepare for acclimatization activities the next day.
Day 04: Acclimatization Day at Namche
- Morning: Have breakfast and enjoy a leisurely morning.
- Hike to Hotel Everest View: Take a short hike to the Hotel Everest View, known for its stunning vistas of Mount Everest and surrounding peaks (approximately 3-4 hours round trip).
- Afternoon: Return to Namche Bazaar. Use the afternoon to rest, explore the local market, or visit the Sherpa Museum to learn about the culture and history of the region.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner and a good night’s sleep to prepare for the next trekking leg.
Day 05: Trek to Tengboche from Namche Bazaar
- Morning: After breakfast, set off on your trek to Tengboche, which will take approximately 5-6 hours.
- Trail Highlights: Enjoy panoramic views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and other peaks as you trek through beautiful landscapes and forested paths.
- Tengboche Monastery: Upon arrival in Tengboche, visit the famous Tengboche Monastery, the largest in the Khumbu region.
- Accommodation: Check into a teahouse for the night and enjoy dinner with fellow trekkers.
Day 06: Trek to Dingboche from Tengboche
- Morning: After breakfast, begin your trek to Dingboche (approximately 5-6 hours).
- Trail Details: The trail offers magnificent views and passes through lush forests and traditional Sherpa villages.
- Accommodation: Arrive in Dingboche and settle into your teahouse. Take in the spectacular views of the surrounding peaks.
- Evening: Have dinner and prepare for acclimatization activities.
Day 07: Acclimatization Day in Dingboche
- Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast.
- Hike to Nangkartsang Peak: Take a day hike to Nangkartsang Peak for breathtaking views (approximately 4-5 hours round trip).
- Afternoon: Return to Dingboche. Spend the rest of the day resting, hydrating, and eating well to aid acclimatization.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner and discuss the upcoming trek with your group.
Day 08: Trek to Lobuche from Dingboche
- Morning: After breakfast, set off for Lobuche (approximately 5-6 hours of trekking).
- Trail Highlights: The trail offers stunning views of the Khumbu glacier and the surrounding peaks.
- Accommodation: Arrive in Lobuche and check into your teahouse. Enjoy the spectacular views.
- Evening: Have dinner and prepare for the trek to Everest Base Camp the next day.
Day 09: Trek to Everest Base Camp and Back to Gorak Shep
- Early Morning: After an early breakfast, trek to Everest Base Camp (approximately 7-8 hours round trip).
- Base Camp Experience: Take in the incredible sights and experience the atmosphere at base camp.
- Return to Gorak Shep: Trek back to Gorak Shep for the night (approximately 2 hours).
- Accommodation: Check into a teahouse and enjoy a well-deserved dinner.
Day 10: Morning Hike to Kala Patthar and Descend to Pheriche
- Early Morning: Rise early for a hike to Kala Patthar, renowned for its spectacular sunrise views over Everest (approximately 2 hours).
- Descent to Pheriche: After soaking in the views, descend back to Gorak Shep for breakfast before continuing your trek to Pheriche (approximately 4-5 hours).
- Accommodation: Arrive in Pheriche and settle into a teahouse for the night. Enjoy dinner and relax.
Day 11: Trek to Namche Bazaar from Pheriche
- Morning: After breakfast, begin your trek back to Namche Bazaar (approximately 6-7 hours).
- Trail Highlights: Enjoy familiar landscapes and views, reflecting on the journey you’ve completed.
- Accommodation: Check into a teahouse in Namche Bazaar and enjoy dinner with your fellow trekkers.
Day 12: Trek to Lukla from Namche Bazaar
- Morning: After breakfast, trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla (approximately 6-7 hours).
- Celebration: Celebrate your trekking achievements with your group upon reaching Lukla.
- Accommodation: Check into a teahouse in Lukla and enjoy a farewell dinner.
Day 13: Flight back to Kathmandu
- Morning: Enjoy breakfast before your flight back to Kathmandu.
- Flight to Kathmandu: Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu. Alternatively, if you drove to Manthali/Ramechhap, you’ll take a flight from there.
- Drive to Kathmandu: Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel.
- Afternoon: Spend the rest of the day exploring Kathmandu, shopping for souvenirs, or relaxing.
- Evening: Celebrate your successful trek with a farewell dinner.
Day 14: Departure
- Transfer: Depending on your flight schedule, transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure.
- Farewell: Bid farewell to the beautiful country of Nepal and the memories of your adventure.
We have prepared the trip departure dates in small groups departure for group fun and enjoyment trekking. Our group size start from 2 peoples (Even for solo travelers, we organize single trip on supplement cost of US$- 200 additional) and maximum group size will be 8-10 travelers. But in general, our every date will have small groups of 4- 6 peoples, which is good group size for safe and flexible & comfortable trekking. We have listed our group departure dates based on every season as below.
Start Date | Availability | Trip Cost | Booking |
2024-12-03 | Guaranteed | USD 1500 | Book Now |