Everest Base Camp Trekking

The Everest Base Camp Trek costs USD 770 per person for a 14-day itinerary. This price generally includes essential services such as accommodation in tea houses, meals, and a professional guide. However, you should be aware of additional costs that may arise during their journey.

Additional Expenses

Several extra expenses may arise in addition to the basic costs associated with the Everest Base Camp Trek. If you prefer luxury accommodation, prices can range from USD 150 to USD 300 per night. It is essential to budget for travel insurance, which usually costs between USD 50 and USD 100 and covers high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation. Furthermore, anticipate additional costs for beverages, snacks, and energy bars, which can range from USD 1 to USD 5 each.

Other potential expenses include gear rentals, such as sleeping bags and trekking poles, costing approximately USD 10 to USD 20 per item per week. Tipping your guides and porters is customary, with a typical range of USD 10 to USD 20 per day for each staff member. You should be mindful of these additional expenses during your budget preparation. With consideration of these budgets, you can make plans more effectively and smoothly.

Accommodations along the Everest Base Camp trek primarily consist of tea houses. They provide a cozy and basic environment. The room features twin beds with simple mattresses, clean sheets, and warm blankets. Offering a communal dining space, you can socialize with fellow trekkers while enjoying hearty meals. You will get squat toilets in almost every teahouse. As you ascend to higher altitudes, the amenities become more basic, and the availability of running water may be limited.

In addition to tea houses, you may find some higher-end lodges offering extra services, such as hot showers, for an additional fee. While electricity is available in many tea houses, it may be limited to specific hours. You are required to pay an extra charge for charging devices. Wi-Fi access can be found in some locations, but it may be slow and intermittent. Camping is another accommodation option, but you must arrange this through a trekking agency. No matter your accommodation choice, your trekking experience for this reason is unmatchable.

During your Everest Base Camp trek, meals are typically provided by tea houses. You can expect options like tea or coffee, eggs (boiled, fried, or scrambled), bread or traditional Tibetan bread, porridge or muesli with milk, and pancakes or chapati. Many tea houses also serve local honey or jam to add sweetness to your morning meal.

For lunch and dinner, hearty local dishes await you, with Dal Bhat (a combination of rice, lentil soup, vegetables, and pickles) being a staple favorite among trekkers. You will also find options like noodles (chow mein or thukpa), fried rice, momos (delicious dumplings), pasta, and even pizza in some areas. Although the choices are limited, these meals are perfect for keeping your energy levels up during the trek. If you have specific dietary requirements, inform your guide beforehand, as they can help arrange suitable meals.

Tea houses are lodges that offer basic but comfortable amenities for trekkers. Here’s what you can generally expect:

Breakfast:

• Tea or coffee
• Eggs (boiled, fried, scrambled)
• Bread or Tibetan bread
• Porridge or muesli with milk
• Pancakes or chapati (flatbread)
• Local honey or jam

Lunch and dinner:

• Dal Bhat (rice with lentil soup, vegetables, and pickles)
• Noodles (chow mein, thukpa)
• Fried rice
• Momos (dumplings)
• Pasta
• Pizza (available in some places)
• Yak steak or buffalo steak (at higher altitudes)

Depending on your taste and preferences, you can order anything you need. Although few options are available, these foods are best for energizing you. But if you are on your diet, you must inform your guide beforehand. They help you arrange the meal accordingly.

Drinking water is essential to staying hydrated. Most tea houses provide boiled or filtered water for a small fee. However, bringing a refillable water bottle and water purification tablets is advisable to minimize waste. As an extra tip, consider bringing quick energy bars or lightweight snacks, such as nuts or dried fruits. Having these snacks during breaks will keep your energy up between meals.

Our trek days will start with a fantastic sunrise from wherever we stay. We will freshen up and enjoy breakfast with delightful views. Breakfast in the teahouses typically includes bread, eggs, tea, coffee, and cereals. We usually trekked between 7 and 8 am to reach the next destination before dark. We will walk for about 5 to 6 hours each day.

Remember, there’s no rush; you can go at your own pace. Bring some snacks to munch on while resting along the trail. We will pass through beautiful landscapes, stunning scenery, and many chortens, Mani walls, and other Buddhist symbols. After walking for a few hours, we will stop at a teahouse for lunch. Sometimes, we can choose our food, but other times, we eat what’s offered.

After our long walk, we will rest at a local teahouse or hotel. We can enjoy some light snacks and later have dinner. We can also interact with other trekkers and climbers. The teahouses have warm blankets, but you can use your sleeping bag. After dinner, we can play board games and cards or other activities.

The total distance from Kathmandu to Everest Base Camp is approximately 200 kilometers (125 miles), one way if you take a flight. Similarly, if you opt for roadways, the total distance you will cover is approximately 429 kilometers (267 miles) one way. However, the total trekking distance can vary depending on the specific route taken and any side trips made along the way.

Here’s a general breakdown of the trek:

• Kathmandu to Lukla (flight): The distance is about 138 kilometers (86 miles) by air. The trek typically starts from Lukla after a short flight from Kathmandu.
• Kathmandu to Lukla(road): You will cover a total distance of 367 kilometers (228 miles). The ride takes 8 to 9 hours to reach Thame Danda. From there, you trek for 14 kilometers to reach Lukla.
• Lukla to Everest Base Camp: This segment of the trek is approximately 62 kilometers (39 miles) one way. The hike passes several picturesque villages and breathtaking landscapes.

When planning the trek, it is essential to consider the return journey as well, which would double the distance covered. Therefore, the total round-trip trekking distance from Lukla to Everest Base Camp and back is approximately 124 kilometers (77 miles). We offer a 14-day package to complete the round-trip journey. This allows for acclimatization and rest days, particularly in places like Namche Bazaar and Dingboche.

PS: Due to air traffic, there is no direct flight from KTM to Lukla. You will take a 135-kilometer ride towards Ramechhaph, which takes around 4 hours. From there, you will take a short 20-minute flight towards Lukla.

Lukla is a village in Nepal that serves as the gateway to Everest Base Camp. A 40-minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla is the quickest and most popular way. There are frequent flights connecting Lukla to Kathmandu, making it convenient for travelers. The flight itself is memorable, offering stunning views of the Himalayas.

• Flight Cost: A one-way flight from Kathmandu to Lukla ranges from $150 to $200.
• Where to Get It: Flights can be booked online through various travel websites or at the Kathmandu airport.

From Lukla, you can start your trek through the Sagarmatha region unless you choose to take a helicopter.

By Bus

Another way to reach Lukla is by road, though it takes longer. You can take a bus from Kathmandu to Jiri. From Jiri, you will trek to Lukla, which takes about 5-6 days. This route is more time-consuming but can be an adventure in itself. It offers beautiful scenery and a chance to acclimatize gradually.

• Bus Cost: The bus ride from Kathmandu to Jiri costs around $10-$15.
• Where to Get It: Buses to Jiri can be booked from the Kathmandu Bus Station.

This road journey is an excellent option for those who have more time. It is also perfect for those who want to experience Nepal’s landscape and culture in a more immersive way.

As mentioned earlier, the Everest Base Camp Trek covers a round trip of approximately 124 kilometers (77 miles). Depending on the route and acclimatization stops, you will typically spend around 12 to 14 days on the trail. The most popular route begins with a flight to Ramechaaph, which takes around 20 minutes. Besides, if you want to add some extra adventure with the cheapest mode of transportation, you can travel via jeep, which takes about 7 to 8 hours to ride, and trek for about 4 hours to reach Lukla.

Upon reaching Lukla, your trekking journey starts. Before reaching Everest Base Camp, you will follow the well-trodden path through Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, and Gorak Shep. This standard route offers a mix of challenging terrain, breathtaking views, and cultural encounters along the way. The inclusion of everything, along with the challenging yet manageable terrain, has made the EBC Trek a favorite for trekkers worldwide.

Off-beaten options exist for those seeking alternative or less crowded routes. One alternative is the Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass. It adds more days to the trek but rewards with stunning glacial lakes and fewer crowds. Another option is trekking from Jiri, following the original path taken by early Everest expeditions. However, it is longer and more physically demanding. These alternative routes provide a chance to explore different landscapes and avoid the busier sections of the traditional route.

Transportation Available

By Flight

Lukla is a village in Nepal that serves as the gateway to Everest Base Camp. The quickest and most popular way is to take a 20-minute flight from Ramechhaph to Lukla. You can also take a short ride towards Ramechhaph from KTM and then take this memorable ride towards the Everest Region, witnessing the diverse landscapes and mountain views.

Flight Cost: A one-way flight from Kathmandu to Lukla ranges from $150 to $200.
Where to Get It: Flights can be booked online through various travel websites or at the Kathmandu airport.

By Bus

Another way to reach Lukla is by road, though it takes longer. You can take a jeep from Kathmandu to Thame Danda. From there, you will trek to Lukla, which takes about 4 hours and covers approx 14 kilometers. This route is more time-consuming but can be an adventure in itself. It offers beautiful scenery and a chance to acclimatize gradually.

Bus Cost: The bus ride from Kathmandu to Jiri costs around $10 to $15.
Where to Get It: Buses to Jiri can be booked from the Kathmandu Bus Station.

The best time to trek to Everest Base Camp falls within two main seasons. It is pre-monsoon (spring) from March to June and post-monsoon (autumn) from September to November. Besides these two seasons, it is generally not recommended to trek during summer and winter unless you are experienced.

Spring (March to May):

Spring is considered one of the best times to trek to Everest Base Camp. Its mild temperatures, clear skies, and blossoming rhododendron forests are perfect. During this season, the weather is stable, making the terrain easier to navigate with minimal snow on the trails. The views of Everest and the surrounding peaks are crystal clear, especially in the mornings. The trails and teahouses can be busier because this is a popular trekking season. Thus, it is recommended that you make your booking prior to your arrival.

Summer/Monsoon (June to August)

Trekking during the summer monsoon season presents unique challenges. You will encounter heavy rains, which often make the trails muddy and slippery. Also, clouds and fog can make the mountains’ visibility difficult. Similarly, leeches on lower-altitude trails can be scary. Accommodations are more available due to the reduced number of trekkers. However, it is important to be prepared for weather-related delays in flights to Lukla and carry waterproof gear in case of rainy conditions.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is another peak season for the Everest Base Camp trek. It offers the best combination of clear skies, stable weather, and moderate temperatures. After the monsoon, the air is fresh, and the views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and other Himalayan peaks are clear. Also, the two major festivals of Nepal, Dashain and Tihar, fall in this season. Autumn, however, brings in the largest crowds, so teahouses can fill up quickly. It is recommended you secure your stay prior to your journey. Despite the crowds, trekkers favor autumn.

Winter (December to February)

Winter trekking to Everest Base Camp is for those who are well-prepared. You have to face cold temperatures, especially at higher altitudes. Most of the higher altitude sections are covered with snow, making some parts of the route more challenging to navigate. The cold weather can keep you away. However, winter is the time to go for a quiet, uncrowded experience. Accommodations are easy to find, but not all teahouses will remain open, especially at higher altitudes, due to extreme cold.

Two main permits are necessary to trek to Everest Base Camp: the Sagarmatha National Park Permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit (known as the Khumbu permit).

Sagarmatha National Park Permit:
This permit is necessary because the Everest Base Camp trekking route lies within the Sagarmatha National Park. You can get it in Kathmandu or Monjo, which is the entry point to the national park. The permit costs approximately NPR 3,000 (about USD 30) per person. The price may vary slightly and is subject to change.

Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit (Khumbu permit):
This permit is necessary as you enter the Khumbu region beyond the Sagarmatha National Park boundaries. Depending on your trekking route, you can obtain the Khumbu permit in Lukla or Monjo. Lukla is a common place where you can obtain this permit. The Khumbu permit costs approximately NPR 2,000 (about USD 20) per person. Like the Sagarmatha National Park Permit, prices can vary slightly and may change over time.

Obtaining these permits through registered agencies or directly from the respective permit offices is essential. This ensures they are valid and supports the development efforts in the region. Having these permits also allows you to enjoy the trek legally and without issues.

Getting travel insurance is essential if you are trekking towards the Everest Region. Although it is not mandatory, having one provides financial protection and gives you peace of mind. The insurance can provide you with an emergency evacuation. This can be very necessary if you have some health-related issues or injuries on the journey. The remote location may not be able to provide you with emergency treatment.

Not just that, the insurance will also cover your medical expenses that arise during the trek. Similarly, it also offers protection against trip cancellations, interruptions, lost or stolen luggage, travel delays, and liability for accidents involving others. Thus, when selecting travel insurance, it is essential that you choose the right one. Your insurance policy should include adequate medical coverage for high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation services.

Also, do not just jump for the first one. You should compare different policies to find one that meets your specific needs and budget. Furthermore, you should carefully review the fine print to understand what is covered and any exclusions that may apply. Prioritizing your safety with comprehensive travel insurance is essential for a worry-free trekking experience.

The Everest Base Camp Trek is moderately complex. Trekking through this trial, you will have to pass through several difficulties, which are listed below: Its high altitude and rugged terrain are the significant reasons for its difficulty. Reaching an elevation of 5,364 meters, the trek increases the risk of altitude sickness and can affect anyone, regardless of fitness level. The trek typically spans 14 days and requires walking for several hours daily, which demands physical fitness and mental resilience.

High Altitude: The trek reaches up to 5,364 meters (17,598 feet), which can cause altitude sickness. The higher the altitude you climb, the lower the oxygen level can get. Thus, it is widespread to get altitude sickness, no matter your fitness level. Some significant symptoms include headaches, nausea, and dizziness.

​Long Duration: It typically takes 12-14 days to complete the trek. This means you will walk several hours daily for nearly two weeks. The continuous physical effort over this period can be exhausting and demands good physical and mental stamina.

Harsh Weather: The weather in the mountains can change quickly and can be very cold. Temperatures can drop below freezing, especially at night. Strong winds and snowstorms can occur, making the trek more difficult. Trekkers need to be prepared with warm clothing and gear.

Limited Facilities: Accommodation and food options are basic and can be scarce in higher altitudes. Teahouses may have limited heating and no hot water. Food choices are simple and repetitive. Trekkers need to be prepared for a lack of comfort.

Remote Location: The trek is in a remote area with limited access to medical facilities. If someone gets injured or very sick, help can be far away. Communication can also be difficult with poor or no cell signal. It’s important to trek with a guide and carry a first aid kit.

Trekking to higher altitude destinations like Everest Base Camp Trek requires a perfect acclimatization plan. The higher the altitude, the lower the temperature gets. Thus, getting a perfect rest day ensures you have time to adjust to the lower oxygen levels with each breath. Proper acclimatization is essential for you to protect yourself from altitude sickness. If your itinerary does not include proper acclimatization, you can experience symptoms such as headaches, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. It can worsen into more serious conditions like High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) or High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE).

To avoid these, it is important for you to follow slow and steady ascents. Two of the major acclimatization locations while taking the EBC trek include Namche Bazaar (3,440 meters) and Dingboche (4,360 meters). Booking with us, we offer you a two-day acclimatization plan in our 14 Days Everest Base Camp Trek:

Day 4: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar
Day 7: Dingboche: Acclimatization

Steps for Acclimatization:

1. Climb Gradually: Take your time and ascend slowly to let your body adjust. A good rule is not to climb more than 300-500 meters (1,000-1,500 feet) daily. This gradual approach helps reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
2. Rest Days: Plan rest days during your trek to give your body a chance to acclimate. Popular rest spots include Namche Bazaar and Dingboche, where you can relax and enjoy the surroundings.
3. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help your body handle the altitude. Staying hydrated is key because dehydration can make altitude sickness worse. Aim to drink enough water throughout the day.
4. Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine: Avoid drinking alcohol and too much caffeine, as they can dehydrate you and hinder the acclimatization process. Stick to water and herbal teas to keep your body in top shape.
5. Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to your feelings, and don’t push yourself too hard. If you start to feel severe symptoms of altitude sickness, such as intense headaches or dizziness, descend to a lower altitude immediately. Your health and safety come first.

Physical Fitness

Preparing for the Everest Base Camp Trek involves focusing on physical fitness. A good fitness level is required to meet all the challenges related to high-altitude trekking. In a day, you will have to hike upwards for more than a couple of hours on uneven terrain, which itself requires strength.

You may engage in cardiovascular workouts for endurance: running, cycling, and swimming. Also, do at least 30 to 60 minutes of cardio exercises three to five days a week. You can also indulge in strength training, such as squats, lunges, and core workouts. This strengthens your overall stamina and stability on the trail.

Mental Fitness

Equally important as physical fitness for a successful trek is mental fitness. You should prepare yourself for the mental challenges of long hours of walking and the potential discomfort of high altitudes. You can opt to practice mindfulness techniques such as meditation or deep breathing, which helps you cope with stressful parts of the trek.

You can try to visualize your successful completion of the journey and try to maintain a positive mindset. You can gain as much knowledge about your adventurous journey to become more confident. You should research the itinerary of the trek, the nature of the terrain, and the various problems you are likely to face. With this kind of preparation of both body and mind, you will be better prepared for a lifetime adventure at Everest Base Camp.

Clothing

• Base Layers: 2 thermal tops and bottoms
• Insulation Layer: 1 fleece or down jacket
• Outer Layer: 1 waterproof and windproof jacket and pants
• Trekking Pants: 2-3 pairs
• Hiking Socks: 4-6 pairs
• Hat
• Gloves

Footwear

Trekking Boots: 1 pair of sturdy, waterproof hiking boots
Camp Shoes

Backpack

Trekking Backpack: 1 (40-60 liters with a rain cover)
Daypack: 1 smaller pack for day hikes and essentials

Sleeping Gear

• Sleeping Bag (-10°C to -20°C recommended)
• Sleeping Pad

Personal Items

• First Aid Kit
• Sunscreen
• Toiletries: Biodegradable soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, and personal hygiene items
• Trekking Poles
• Water Bottle
• Water Purification

Navigation and Safety

• Map and Compass
• Headlamp/Flashlight
• Emergency Whistle

Miscellaneous

• Camera
• Power Bank
• Snacks: Energy bars, nuts, and dried fruits for quick energy boosts

Best Dramatic Takeoff/Landing at Lukla Airport

Taking a flight to the starting point of the trek, Lukla, can be quite an adventure. You should be ready for this thrilling adventure: landing in one of the most dangerous airports in the world. The airport is popular for its short and steep runway. As you approach the runway, you will notice some beautiful buildings and breathtaking Himalayas views. The sudden drop and immediate halt during landing or the sharp climb during takeoff will surely get your adrenaline pumping.

Tradition and Sherpa Culture

Most of the people residing in this region are Sherpa. They have strong connections to mountains. As you take this trail, you will pass through many traditional Sherpa villages such as Namche Bazaar, Dingboche, and Tengboche. You feel the people’s hospitality as they welcome you with an open heart. Namche Bazaar has this huge, vibrant market that is worth exploring. You get to see various types of architecture from the Sherpa people, interact with the locals, and taste some local food. This will give you quite in-depth insight into the culture and living.

Tibetan Buddhism and Practice

Almost every person residing here follows Tibetan Buddhism. While taking the EBC trail, you will pass by beautifully adorned chortens, prayer wheels, and Mani walls. These symbols are deeply rooted in the faith of local people there. You can also try spinning mani walls for safe travels and good fortune. Each village you pass will give you glimpses into how this spiritual practice is woven into everyday life. The adventure will allow you to see and respect their dedication in person.

Highest Base Camp of the Tallest Mountain

The EBC trek will take you to the base camp of the highest mountain in the world, Mount Everest (8,848.86 meters). Upon reaching this iconic destination, you will be surrounded by towering peaks and a vast glacier. This is the gateway for climbers who attempt to summit Everest Everest, and it is a monumental achievement for trekkers like you. Reaching Everest Base Camp, situated at 5,364 meters, will fill you with a sense of pride and awe as you will be standing before the tallest mountain on Earth.

Sunrise and Sunset from Kala Patthar

The sunrise and sunset views from Kalapatthar are the major highlight of the Everest Trek. You will see the magic of the sun unfolding before your life. As the sun rises or sets, the peaks of Everest, Nuptse, and Lhotse will be bathed in golden light, creating a stunning panorama that is truly unforgettable. Kala Patthar offers a view of Mount Everest, which is considered one of the best. There will be enough time to shoot the moment and get engrossed in your fascinating journey. This serene and amazing moment is what you will carry with you for long after the end of the trek.

Are you planning your trip towards the Everest Base Camp Trek and looking for the best travel agency? Consider us for your next booking. With the motto of safe and enjoyable travel to any destination in Nepal, booking your trek with Nepal Base Camp Treks will make your trip memorable and offer you the most budget-friendly trekking packages. Here’s why you should book with us:

Experienced Guides: Our guides know the trails well. They are trained to keep you safe and share interesting facts about the area.

Flexible Plans: We can adjust our trekking plans to fit your needs and schedule. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced trekker, we have options.

Full Support: We help you from start to finish. This includes getting permits, planning your trek, and answering any questions.

Good Accommodations and Meals: We work with trusted teahouses to provide comfortable places to stay and good food.

Safety First: Your safety is our top priority. Our guides carry first aid kits and know how to handle altitude sickness. We also monitor the weather and trail conditions.

Eco-Friendly: We care about the environment and follow practices that help protect the area’s natural beauty, such as managing waste properly and using reusable water bottles.

Last-Minute Booking: If you are planning a spontaneous adventure, we offer last-minute booking options for your trek to Everest Base Camp. Our flexible scheduling allows you to join our trekking groups even with little advance notice.

Booking Procedure

If you are finally considering our package and wondering how you can make your booking, we offer you the most straightforward booking process. Make your trip booking with some of the simple steps:

Contact Us: Reach out via email or phone to express your interest in the trek. Our friendly team will assist you with any inquiries.

Choose Your Trek: Discuss your preferences and select the trek that best suits your experience level and schedule.

Payment: We will provide you with the necessary payment details to secure your booking. For your convenience, we offer various payment methods.

Prepare for the Trek: After booking, we will provide you with detailed information on preparation, including packing lists and safety guidelines.

Join the Trek: On the day of the trek, meet our guides and fellow trekkers, and embark on your unforgettable journey to Everest Base Camp.