Everest Base Camp Trek

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Everest Base Camp Trek
  • Duration 13 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • CountryNepal
  • Maximum Altitude 5550 m
  • Group Size 10 Person
  • Starts Lukla
  • Ends Lukla
  • Activities Trekking
  • Best Time March-May, Septmeber-November

Everest Base Camp Trek: An Incredible Himalayan Journey

Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek is a moderate and  rewarding trek in Nepal's Everest region with spectacular panoramic Himalayan views include Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, and Makalu. You will experience Sherpa culture, visit isolated valleys, and marvel at the world's highest peaks.

Highlights

  • Trek to the foot of the world's tallest mountain, Mt. Everest.
  • Witness a breathtaking sunrise from Kala Patthar with a different perspective of Mt. Everest.
  • Experience the Sherpa culture and lifestyle.
  • Visit ancient monasteries and stupas.
  • Cross thrilling suspension bridges.
  • Enjoy breathtaking mountain vistas and varied landscapes.
  • Walk along picturesque villages and rhododendron woods.
  • Best EBC itinerary for novice trekkers and travelers who want to do a short trek.
  • A full day of trek preparation in Kathmandu and two days of acclimatization on trekking

Tour Overview

The Everest Base Camp Trek is a classic Himalayan trek that attracts trekkers from all over the world. The trek typically starts with a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. Trekkers ascend from Lukla via valleys, passing by Sherpa villages, suspension bridges, and diverse landscapes. Acclimatization days are part of the trek to enable trekkers to adjust to the high altitude. The last destination is Everest Base Camp, located at the foot of Mount Everest. Most trekkers also trek up Kala Patthar for panoramic views of Everest. The return normally takes the same route back to Lukla.

Bookings are open for the Everest Base Camp trek on 2025 spring/summer/autumn/winter departures.

Why do the EBC trek?

For several reasons, the Everest Base Camp Trek has achieved its legendary status. First and foremost, it provides the unparalleled experience of being at the base of the world's tallest mountain, Mount Everest. The trek also opens up breathtaking landscapes to the trekkers, with the finest mountain views that include Everest and the towering Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam. Aside from the mountains, the trek is an adventure in itself, culturally, as one gets to witness the distinct culture and hospitality of the Sherpa people. Lastly, reaching Everest Base Camp is a great personal fulfillment, a great feat that challenges one's physical and mental boundaries.

What to Expect During the Everest Base Camp Trek?

The Everest Base Camp Trek can be described as a tough but highly rewarding experience. Travelers undertaking the trek can expect several factors that characterize the experience. The trek normally entails beginning with flights to and from Lukla, which is the gateway to the Everest region. Trekkers can expect, on average, to walk for 5 to 7 hours a day. The trek also includes a lot of altitude gain, with trekkers reaching very high altitudes, the highest of which is 5,545 meters at Kala Patthar, a popular vantage point. The trek's lodging is mainly in teahouses and basic guesthouses along the route. Hikers should also be ready for uncooperative weather, as mountain weather can be unpredictable. Last but not least, the terrain itself is uneven and rocky, and some physical stamina and careful walking are needed.

Trekkers should be prepared for basic accommodation and the challenges of high altitude.

Everest Base Camp Trek Distances and Elevations

Trekking RouteDistance (Kilometers)Duration (Hours)Altitude (Meters)
Flight: Kathmandu to Lukla14040 mins2860
Trek Lukla to Phakding83 to 42610
Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazar105 to 63440
Trek to Namche Bazaar (acclimatization hike)variesvaries3440-3900+
Trek Namche Bazaar to Tengboche105 to 63860
Trek Tengboche to Dingboche115 to 64410
Trek Dingboche (acclimatization hike)variesvaries4410-4900+
Trek Dingboche to Lobuche125 to 74940
 Trek Lobuche to Gorak Shep52 to 35164
Trek Gorak Shep to Everest Base Camp32 to 35364
Trek Gorak Shep to Pheriche (or similar)8-124 to 64240
Trek Pheriche (or similar) to Namche Bazaar20-2510-123440
Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla187-92860
Lukla to Kathmandu14040 mins1440

Our useful information section has more information about the best time, accommodation, meals, travel insurance, tips, etc. Please check that as well.

Everest Base Camp Trek Itinerary

Possible Flight Delays: The weather has a significant impact on Lukla flights. Cancellations and delays are frequent, particularly in windy or overcast weather. Before taking any international flights after the trek, please allow one or two buffer days in your itinerary.

Flights from Ramechhap (Manthali Airport): All flights to Lukla depart from Ramechhap, not Kathmandu, during the busiest trekking seasons (spring, March–May, and autumn, September–November).

To get to Ramechhap for early morning flights, you'll need to leave Kathmandu between one and two in the morning.

To rest and avoid a long nighttime drive before your flight, we advise leaving for Ramechhap on Day 3 of your itinerary.

Starts from: Lukla Ends to: Lukla
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Top of the World Adventure is the only travel agency with an official presence inside the arrivals area of Tribhuvan International Airport. As soon as you land in Kathmandu, our friendly team will be there to greet you. After you collect your baggage, our representative—holding a sign with your name. Then you will receive a detailed briefing about your upcoming 14-day Everest Base Camp Trek.

We will drop you to the hotel after a meeting and brefing at our office. 

Spend your first night in a comfortable hotel in Kathmandu as you prepare for the adventure of a lifetime in the Himalayas.

  • Max Altitude: 1300 m
  • Accommodation: Hotel

You will fly to Lukla early in the morning. In the spring and autumn seasons, Lukla flights are operated from Ramechhap Airport. Reaching Ramechhap Airport by car takes around 5 hours from Kathmandu.

So, you leave your hotel around 1:00 AM. During the flight, you will see a heavenly view of the Himalayas. Land in Lukla and meet the rest of the crew (porters).

Walking through the narrow streets of Lukla, you will descend to Phakding village. While trekking, you will cross several suspension bridges on the Dudh Koshi River.

  • Max Altitude: 2610 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahosue

Begin your trek from Phakding after breakfast, crossing the Dudh Kosi River and venturing into the beautiful area of Rhododendron forests. As you pass through the scenic trails, you'll enjoy breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains such as Kusum Kanguru (6,369 meters) and Thamserku (6,623 meters). The trail takes you through lovely pine trees and charming villages.

You'll encounter the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park at a checkpoint after traveling through some communities. Your permits will be checked at Jorsalle, ensuring a smooth journey as you continue. Walking alongside the Dudh Koshi River and Bhote Koshi River confluences, you’ll marvel at the pristine beauty of the region.

The trek then becomes more challenging as you undertake a steep climb. After crossing one of the suspension bridges above the river, you will ascend to Namche Bazaar. The climb can be tough, but the stunning views of Mount Everest, Lhotse (8,516 meters), and Nuptse (7,861 meters) greeting you upon arrival make it worthwhile. Overnight stay will be at a hotel in Namche Bazaar.

Take a deep breath and bask in the serene beauty of your surroundings!

  • Max Altitude: 3440 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Today is set aside for acclimatization at Namche Bazaar, the largest village in the Khumbu region. This day is essential for helping your body adjust to the altitude, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable trek ahead. You have the option to rest or explore the nearby villages of Khunde and Khumjung. Khumjung, being the largest village in the Khumbu region, provides a wonderful insight into local Sherpa culture.

Enjoy lunch before hiking back to Namche Bazaar. Namche offers various amenities such as ATMs, Internet cafés, restaurants, and bakeries, making your stay comfortable.

Make use of the acclimatization day to do a short trek to nearby viewpoints such as Everest View Hotel, Thamo, and Khunde. Take a tour of the area, including the Tourist Visitor Center, where you will learn about Everest climbers, Sherpa culture, and the flora and wildlife of the region.

  • Max Altitude: 3440 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Today's journey begins with our guide leading you through the Khumjung community before joining the main path to Tengboche. You'll pass through Trashinga and descend to cross the Dudh Koshi River at Phunke Tenga (3,250 meters).

The trek continues with a challenging ascent through forests of Fir, Black Juniper, Pine, and Rhododendron, ultimately reaching the Tengboche Monastery. Here, you'll be greeted by stunning views of Ama Dablam, Kantega, and Mount Everest, making the climb to Tengboche a truly rewarding experience.

The trek to Tengboche is dusty and winding, but the panoramic views from the monastery make it all worthwhile. This segment of the trek offers some of the most picturesque and serene landscapes, allowing ample time for photography. You'll have the opportunity to photograph stupas (Buddhist temples), prayer flags, Mani walls (walls with Buddhist prayers engraved onto them), mountains like Ama Dablam (6,812 meters), and the Tengboche Monastery itself.

You'll spend the night at a teahouse in Tengboche, perfectly placed to take in the breathtaking scenery of the surrounding peaks.

  • Max Altitude: 3867 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Today’s trek begins with a gentle descent through a forest of Birch, Juniper, Fir, and Rhododendron as you head towards Debuche. It's important to pace yourself given the elevation throughout the day. After crossing the Imja Khola, the trail leads to Pangboche, offering stunning views of Ama Dablam.

The route ascends through open alpine hillsides, passing Shomare, Orsho, and Tsuro Wog villages. While traveling through the Khumbila Khola valley to the ridge top, you can take in breathtaking views of rising mountains such as Taboche (6,495m), Thamserku (6,608m), Ama Dablam (6,812m), Nuptse (7,861m), Cholatse (6,440m), and Lhotse (8,516m).

The trek continues past Upper Pangboche, a significant settlement, eventually crossing the Imja Khola once more before reaching Dingboche. This segment showcases the striking beauty of the Himalayan landscape, with varied terrains and elevation gains. You'll spend the night at a teahouse lodge in Dingboche, nestled among the majestic peaks.

  • Max Altitude: 4410 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

It is your second acclimatization day. In the morning, you will hike to Nagarjuna Hill or Chhukung Valley. The hike will be amazing. You will see a gorgeous sunrise and breathtaking mountain panorama. After the hike, you will return to Dingboche village to spend the rest of the day.

  • Max Altitude: 4410m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

On the 8th day of your trek to Everest Base Camp, you have two routes to reach Lobuche. The first option is the Kongma La Pass (5,535 meters), the first of the three high passes. This route is more challenging, requiring 8-9 hours of trekking. The second route via Pheriche is shorter, taking around 5-6 hours to reach Lobuche. You’ll spend the night at a teahouse in Lobuche.

This segment of your journey offers both challenging routes and rewarding views, leading you closer to the heart of the Himalayas. The trek begins with a climb through the Khumbu Khola valley to Duglha. As you get closer to Dusa, the valley begins to shrink. The route is difficult, with various massive boulders and mountain yaks going by at a high height nearby.

You'll encounter many memorials with praying flags and stones in remembrance of climbers who died on the way to Mt. Everest. You will then arrive at the path that connects Gokyo Lakes and Cho-La Pass. Peaks like Khumbuste (6,636 meters), Lingtren (6,749 meters), and Pumori (7,161 meters) may also be seen.

In a typical hike towards Lobuche, you might easily become fatigued walking across the mountainous terrain. Only a few residences exist in Lobuche, providing a tranquil stop amidst the stunning scenery.

  • Max Altitude: 4910m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Today begins with a trek from Lobuche (4,910 meters) to Gorak Shep (5,160 meters), the nearest teahouse location to Everest Base Camp. You will arrive at Gorak Shep around lunchtime. After enjoying a meal, our guide will lead you to Everest Base Camp (5,364 meters). Following your visit to the base camp, you will return to Gorak Shep for an overnight stay, as there are no teahouses at Everest Base Camp.
This day marks a significant milestone as you reach the iconic Everest Base Camp, experiencing the awe-inspiring grandeur of the highest peak in the world up close.

  • Max Altitude: 5160m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

The journey today takes you from Pheriche to Namche Bazaar. As you descend, the walk offers a mix of downhill paths and short uphill climbs, making it relatively easier. You will walk downhill with fewer ascents, passing Pangboche and then reaching a bridge. After a two-hour climb, you will arrive at Tengboche.

You'll stop for lunch in Tengboche, savoring the serene environment and breathtaking views. After lunch, continue your trek to Namche Bazaar. Overnight stay will be at a hotel in Namche Bazaar, where you can relax and enjoy the amenities.

  • Max Altitude: 4240 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

The return journey is much easier as the trek descends in altitude with every few hours of walking. You'll head downhill with a few short ascents to Pangboche, continuing to a bridge before a two-hour climb to Tengboche. Here, you will stop for lunch, then proceed onwards to Namche Bazaar for your overnight stay.
This leg of the journey offers a more relaxed descent, allowing you to enjoy the stunning landscapes and Sherpa villages you pass along the way.

  • Max Altitude: 3440 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

On this day, the trail descends steeply through the Rhododendron and Pine forest to Jorasalle, which will take about two hours. Following this, you will embark on a 6-hour walk to Lukla, passing through Monju, Benkar, Phakding, Ghatkhola, Chaurikharka, and Chheplung along the way. Upon arriving in Lukla, you will stay overnight at a guesthouse.

This descent brings you back through the picturesque villages and landscapes you trekked through, allowing for a reflective and scenic end to the trekking portion of your journey.
 

  • Max Altitude: 2860 m
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Accommodation: Hotel

Your day begins with an early morning flight from Lukla back to Kathmandu. This scenic and joyful flight marks the end of your trekking adventure. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is reserved for rest and relaxation after your long journey through the Khumbu Himalayas. You are treated to a delightful dinner in the evening accompanied by a traditional Nepali cultural show.

This day offers a perfect opportunity to unwind and reflect on the incredible experiences of your trek while enjoying the vibrant culture of Nepal.
 

  • Max Altitude: 1350m
  • Meals: breakfast
  • Accommodation: 3 star hotel

Congratulations on completing your 14-day journey in Nepal! As per your flight schedule, our staff will transfer you to Kathmandu airport for your international departure.

Still Confuse?

Download brochure or customize your trip.

Route Map

Everest base camp trek map

Altitude Graph

Everest base camp trek altitude Graph

Everest Base Camp Trek Cost Details

Includes

  • All airport arrivals and departures by private vehicle
  • 2 nights at a 3-star hotel in  kathmandu with breakfast 
  • Kathmandu to Lukla to Kathmandu flight fare OR Ramechhap Lukla Ramechhap flight fares. 
  • Kathmandu to Ramechhap  transportation (If applicable)
  • All necessary permits for the trek (Sagarmatha National Park permit, Local Government permit)
  • Meals during trekking time (Breakfasts, Lunches and Dinners)
  • 11 nights of mountain accommodation
  • Purified drinking water
  • Company Duffel Bags
  • Government-licensed trekking guide
  • Transportation, accommodation, insurance, and salary of the guide
  • Farewell dinner at a Nepali restaurant before departure
  • Free luggage storage
  • Trekking completion certificate
  • Taxes and service charges

Excludes

  • Porter service
  • Travel Insurance
  • Mineral water during trekking
  • Trekking equipment
  • Tips for the guide/porter (tips are expected)

Add-ons and Options

  • Kathmandu to Lukla /Lukla to Kathmandu helicopter : Ignore the flight departure uncertainty from/to Lukla 
  • Porter Service: Get a porter to reduce your luggage burden
  • Attached toilet option except gorakhshep
  • Electric blanket option except lobuche and gorakhshep
  • Travel Insurance
  • 5 star hotel in kathmandu

Dates and Availability

Select month and year
Departure Dates
Price
Status
Departure Dates
Starts:18 Aug, 2025Ends:30 Aug, 2025
Price
US$1399US$1450Save US$51
Status
Guaranteed
Departure Dates
Starts:25 Aug, 2025Ends:06 Sep, 2025
Price
US$1399US$1450Save US$51
Status
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Additional Info

Everest Base Camp Trek Permits

For the Everest Base Camp Trek, you will need to obtain the following permits:

  • Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit: This permit is required to enter the national park where Everest Base Camp is located.
  • Khumbu pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Fee

You can typically obtain the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and local government permit at Monjo. Our package includes the necessary permit fees, and we can assist you in obtaining them.

Everest Base Camp Trek Difficulty

The Everest Base Camp Trek is considered a challenging trek. Your physical fitness, mental determination, and prior trekking experience significantly influence your experience.

While the distance to Everest Base Camp isn't exceptionally long, the high altitude is the primary challenge. The trail involves several ascents and descents, and you'll be trekking for multiple days at altitudes above 4,000 meters.

Trekkers should be prepared for:

  • 5-7 hours of trekking per day on average
  • Rocky and uneven terrain
  • High altitude and potential altitude sickness

Being in good physical condition is essential to fully enjoy the trek. While teahouse accommodations are available, they are basic. Be prepared for simple amenities.

Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness is a serious concern on the Everest Base Camp Trek. It's crucial to acclimatize properly as you ascend to higher elevations.

To minimize the risk of altitude sickness:

  • Ascend gradually, allowing your body to adjust.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
  • Avoid alcohol and smoking.
  • Include acclimatization days in your itinerary.

Our Everest Base Camp Trek itinerary includes built-in acclimatization days to help prevent altitude sickness.  If you experience any symptoms of altitude sickness, inform your guide immediately. Our guides are trained to recognize and manage altitude sickness and carry basic first-aid supplies.

Symptoms of altitude sickness may include:

  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue
  • Shortness of breath
  • Loss of appetite
  • Difficulty sleeping

Packing List for Everest Camp Trek

Clothing:

  1. Base Layers:
    • Moisture-wicking long-sleeved tops and bottoms
    • Thermal underwear for colder days
  2. Insulation:
    • Insulated jacket or down jacket
    • Fleece or soft-shell jacket
  3. Outer Layers:
    • Waterproof, windproof, and breathable jacket
    • Waterproof, windproof, and breathable pants (full-zip for easy layering over boots)
  4. Headwear:
    • Warm hat (covering ears)
    • Buff or neck gaiter
    • Sunglasses with UV protection
    • Sun hat or cap
  5. Handwear:
    • Insulated and waterproof gloves
    • Thin liner gloves for dexterity
  6. Footwear:
    • Mountaineering boots suitable for crampons
    • Gaiters to keep snow out of boots
    • Thick, moisture-wicking socks

Equipment:

  1. Backpack:
    • A comfortable and durable backpack with a capacity of at least 40-50 liters for day trips and summit push
  2. Sleeping Gear:
    • Clothing Accessories:
    • Lightweight trekking pants
    • Trekking shorts
    • Moisture-wicking underwear
    • Sports bra (for women)
  3. Personal Hygiene Items:
    • Personal toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.)
    • Quick-drying towel
    • Wet wipes and hand sanitizer
  4. Medical Kit:
    • Basic first aid supplies
    • Prescription medications
  5. Navigation:
    • Map
  6. Lighting:
    • Solar-powered or portable charger
  7. Sun Protection:
    • High SPF sunscreen
    • Lip balm with sunblock
  8. Water and Hydration:
    • Water bottles or hydration system with a minimum capacity of 3 liters
    • Water purification tablets or filtration system
  9. Miscellaneous:
    • Trekking poles for balance and support
    • Kinesiology tape and repair kits

Everest Base Camp Trek FAQs

The Everest Base Camp Trek is a legendary journey that brings you face-to-face with the world's highest peak, Mount Everest. It's more than just a trek; it's an immersion into the awe-inspiring beauty of the Himalayas and the unique culture of the Sherpa people. It's a challenging yet profoundly rewarding experience.

The trek is considered moderately challenging to strenuous. While you don't need to be an elite athlete, a good level of fitness is essential. You'll be trekking for several days at high altitude, over uneven terrain, with daily ascents and descents. Prior trekking experience is beneficial, but with proper training, most reasonably fit individuals can complete it.

You'll reach Everest Base Camp at an altitude of 5,364 meters (17,598 feet). Many trekkers also make the climb to Kala Patthar, a nearby viewpoint that offers arguably the best panoramic views of Everest, reaching an elevation of 5,545 meters (18,192 feet).

While it's not strictly mandatory, having some previous trekking experience is highly recommended. You should be comfortable with hiking for multiple days in a row. If you're new to trekking, it's crucial to train beforehand to build your endurance and get used to hiking uphill and downhill.

Focus on building your cardiovascular fitness. Activities like hiking, running, cycling, and swimming are excellent. Strength training, particularly for your legs and core, is also beneficial. Train with a weighted pack to simulate the weight you'll be carrying.

Altitude sickness is a common concern at high altitudes. It's caused by your body not getting enough oxygen as you ascend. Symptoms can range from mild (headache, nausea) to severe (HAPE, HACE).

To minimize the risk:

  • We follow a carefully designed itinerary with built-in acclimatization days.
  • We emphasize the importance of staying hydrated, ascending slowly, and avoiding alcohol and smoking.
  • Our experienced guides are trained to recognize and manage altitude sickness.

 

Yes, you can see Mount Everest from Everest Base Camp, but the view is partially obstructed by other mountains. For the most spectacular and unobstructed views, a hike to Kala Patthar is highly recommended.

You'll be staying in teahouses, which are simple guesthouses run by local families along the trail. Rooms are typically basic, with twin beds. Bathrooms are often shared, and hot water may be available for an extra charge.

Teahouses provide simple but hearty meals to fuel you for the trek. You can expect dishes like dal bhat (rice and lentils), noodles, potatoes, bread, and some Western options.

It's not safe to drink tap water. We recommend using water purification tablets or a filter, or purchasing boiled water. This helps prevent waterborne illnesses.

Key items include:

  • Sturdy trekking boots
  • Warm layers (including a down jacket)
  • Sleeping bag
  • Waterproof jacket and pants
  • Trekking poles
  • Headlamp
  • First-aid kit We'll provide a detailed packing list before your departure.

Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory. It must cover medical expenses, emergency helicopter evacuation, and repatriation in case of an emergency.