Everest Base Camp via Salleri

Duration 15 Days
Trip Grade Moderate
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude 5550
Starts Kathmandu
Ends Kathmandu
Activities Trekking

Everest Gokyo Trek via Salleri: Your Ultimate 15-Day Adventure

Set off on the Everest Gokyo Trek via Salleri, an alternative and budget-friendly trekking route in the Everest region. This journey offers an authentic experience through Rai and Sherpa culture, avoiding the expensive and bustling flight to Lukla. Perfect for those with longer holidays who seek a less-crowded and budget-friendly route, the trek starts from Salleri, offering stunning Himalayan views and rich cultural encounters.

Highlights

Traverse the trail used by Tenzing Norgay Sherpa and Edmund Hillary during their historic climb
Experience the pristine beauty of Solu and Khumbu regions
Enjoy lesser-known communities that showcase Rai and Sherpa cultures
Encounter breathtaking views of the Khumbu Icefall, glaciers, and peaks like Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Cho Oyu
Explore lush forests, vibrant rhododendrons, and stunning mountain valleys
Barn new cultural insights through interactions with friendly locals

A Journey Through History

Follow the classic trail of the Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek across Salleri, which offers a quiet and serene trek through remarkable landscapes. The journey begins with a jeep or bus ride from Kathmandu to Salleri, passing through stunning landscapes that include banded river banks and highland overpasses with mountain scenery.

Merging with the Jiri to EBC trek at Ringmu, the trek offers ample time for acclimation, starting from Salleri at an elevation of 2390 meters. Avoid altitude sickness and the dangers of flying to Lukla while benefiting from the warm, generous hospitality of locals along the trail.

Detailed Trek Experience

Starting from Salleri, pass through various villages such as Phaplu, Ringmo, Takshindo, Kharikhola, and Paiya. Descend to the Dudh Koshi River and rise again to reach Bupsa. From there, ascend to Paiya and Lukla before heading to Namche Bazaar, the gateway to Everest.

Continue from Namche to Dole, Machhermo, and finally Gokyo, where you can hike to the Fifth Gokyo Lake. Behold the panoramic view of Mount Everest from Gokyo Ri, surpassing even that of Kala Patthar.

What Awaits You

Journey from Gokyo to Dragnag, Dzonglha, and ultimately Gorakshep. Explore Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar before descending to Pheriche, then Namche Bazaar, concluding with a scenic flight from Lukla to Kathmandu.

Professional Guidance

Partnering with Top of the World Adventure, our meticulously crafted itineraries and expert guides ensure an exceptional trekking experience. Indulge in the unique cultural traditions of different ethnic groups while savoring mesmerizing mountain views and less crowded trails.

Everest Gokyo Trek via Salleri Distances and Elevations

Route	Distance (Kilometers)	Duration (Hours)	Altitude (Meters)
Phaplu to Taksindo	10	4 to 5	2930
Taksindo to Kharikhola	11	6 to 7	2040
Kharikhola to Paiya	11	6 to 7	2730
Paiya to Phakding	10.6	6 to 7	2610
Phakding to Namche Bazaar	11	6 to 7	3440
Namche Bazaar to Dole	10	6 to 7	4110
Dole to Machhermo	10	5 to 6	4470
Machhermo to Gokyo	7	4 to 5	4790
Gokyo to Dragnag	4.43	4 to 5	4750
Dragnag to Dzonglha	9.38	6 to 7	4830
Dzonglha to Gorakshep	10.8	5 to 6	5140
Gorakshep to Everest Base Camp	3.5	3 to 4	5364
Gorakshep to Kalapatthar	2	2 to 3	5545
Gorakshep to Pheriche	9.5	4 to 5	4240
Pheriche to Namche Bazaar	14.3	7 to 8	3440
Namche Bazaar to Lukla	13.5	7 to 8	2840

Preparing for the Trek

Physical and mental preparedness are essential for this trek. Start by engaging in regular physical activities like cycling, running, and walking. Ensure you have prior trekking experience and consult with your doctor regarding your respiratory condition. Carry appropriate gear and be mentally ready for the journey's demands.

Everest Base Camp via Salleri Itinerary

Day 01:Arrival at Kathmandu (1300m)

Upon landing at Kathmandu airport, you will find our agency inside the arrival tunnel. After meeting our representative and completing the necessary paperwork, you will be transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. After check-in, you can freshen up and visit our agency office to collect flight tickets and other information. If you missed bringing any trekking equipment, you can purchase it at a store next to the hotel. Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.

Max Altitude: 1300m
Accommodation: Hotel

Day 02:Drive from Kathmandu to Salleri (1138m), 8 hours Drive

Your 17-day Everest Base Camp trek begins early in the morning with a drive from Kathmandu to Salleri in a local jeep. The drive takes about 8 hours, crossing the bridge at Sunkoshi River and continuing through the Okhaldhunga District. Along the way, you can see the incredible peaks of Dudhkunda (Numpur Himal), Everest, and others. The drive continues up to the district of Solukhumbu. Overnight at a lodge in Salleri.

Max Altitude: 1138m
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel

Day 03:Salleri to Paiya (2730m) 5-6 hours Drive

Start your day with an early morning jeep drive through rough and rugged roads. The drive takes you through the beautiful villages of Taksindo, Kharikhola, and others. Along the way, you can see Numpur Himal, small streams, and hills reaching Fera. From Fera, you will drive through a pine forest until you reach Ringmo. From the hill of Taksindo, you can explore the picturesque scenarios of Salleri. Our guide will provide details about the monasteries in the village that represent the mystical touch of Tibetan Buddhism. From another ridge, you will see views of Lukla and Nunthala valley. You will descend through the alpine forest, pass Nunthala village, and continue to Paiya. Overnight at a local lodge in Paiya.

Max Altitude: 2730 m
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse

Day 04:Paiya to Phakding (2610m) Trekking Duration: 4-5 hours

Today, after walking for about 2 hours along the trail, you will descend to Surke through a steep downhill trail. You will then meet the main trail and trekkers who come by flight to Lukla. Exploring the local village and the wonderful surroundings, you will cross the grassy land and reach Phakding. Overnight at a teahouse in Phakding.

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

Day 05:Trek From Phakding to Namche Bazzar. (3440m) Trekking Duration: 5-7 hours

You will start the day by crossing the suspension bridge and walking through Benkar, enjoying the wonderful waterfall. After a few hours, you will see the fabulous mountain called Thamserku. You will then cross another bridge and walk through an undulating trail to reach Monjo and then the Khumbu valley. You will have lunch at Jorsalle and continue with gradual ups and downs. Today, you will cross a total of 5 bridges. After crossing the last bridge, you will climb gradually to Namche Bazaar. Overnight at a teahouse in Namche Bazaar.

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

Day 06:Acclimatization at Namche Bazaar

Today, you may rest or hike through the villages of Khunde and Khumjung. Khumjung is the largest village in the Khumbu region. After having lunch, you will hike back to Namche Bazaar.

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

Day 07:Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,867 m) Trekking Duration: 5-6 hours

Our guide will take you through the Khumjung community and connect with the main path to Tengboche. You will walk further to Trashinga and then descend to cross the Dudh Koshi River at Phunke Tenga (3,250 meters). The trail then ascends through fir, black juniper, pine, and rhododendron forests to reach Tengboche Monastery. Here, you can see the gigantic peaks of Ama Dablam, Kantega, and Mount Everest. Overnight at a teahouse in Tengboche.

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

Day 08:Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche (4,260 m) Trekking Duration: 5-6 hours.

Max Altitude: 4260 m
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Teahosue

Day 09:Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche (4,930 m) Trekking Duration: 5 hours

Today, there are two routes to Lobuche. The first route is via Kongma La Pass (5,535 meters), the first pass among the three passes. This route takes around 8-9 hours. The second route is via Pheriche, which is shorter, taking around 5-6 hours. Overnight at a teahouse in Lobuche.

Max Altitude: 4930 m
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse

Day 10:Trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5,164 m) and continue to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) Trekking Duration: 5-6 hours

On this day, you will start trekking from Lobuche (4,910 meters) towards Gorak Shep (5,164 meters), where you will find the nearest teahouse to Everest Base Camp. You will reach Gorak Shep around lunchtime. After lunch, our guide will lead you to Everest Base Camp (5,364 meters). You will then return to Gorak Shep to stay overnight, as there are no teahouses at Everest Base Camp.

Max Altitude: 5364 m
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Teahosue

Day 11:Early morning, hike to Kalapathar (5,545 m) and trek to Pheriche (4,240 m.) Trekking Duration: 4-5 hours

Early in the morning, you will hike to the top of Kalapatthar (5,545 meters), the highest point of the adventure, offering incredible sunrise views of the mountains, including Mt. Everest. After enjoying the moment, you will return to Gorak Shep for breakfast and continue the trek to Thugla, and then downhill to Pheriche on a windy valley for an overnight stop.

Max Altitude: 5545 m
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse

Day 12:Trek from Phireche to Namche Bazzar (3,440m) Trekking Duration: 5-6 hours

The return journey is much easier as the walk descends in altitude every few hours. You will walk downhill with a few short ascents to Pangboche and then to a bridge with an hour's climb to Tengboche. After stopping for lunch in Tengboche, you will continue to Namche Bazaar. Overnight at a teahouse in Namche Bazaar.

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

Day 13:Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,860 m) Trekking Duration: 5-6 hours

The morning walk leads back to Phakding and from there back to Lukla with the last and final climb of this fabulous adventure. Upon reaching Lukla, you will celebrate with a farewell dinner with fellow trekkers and staff. Overnight at a teahouse in Lukla.

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

Day 14:Take flight from Lukla to Kathmandu (45 minutes flight)

The day starts with an early morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu, followed by a transfer to your hotel. You will have the day to rest after a long journey in the Khumbu Himalaya. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with a Nepali cultural show. Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.

Max Altitude: 2860m
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel

Day 15:Departure for your onward flight

And here you are done with your 15 days of journey in Nepal. As per your flight schedule, our staff will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your international departure.

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Route Map

Altitude Graph

Everest Base Camp via Salleri Cost Details

Includes

Airport arrival and departure by private vehicle
2 nights at a 3-star hotel with breakfast
All necessary permits for the trek (National Park permit, Local permit)
14 nights of mountain accommodation
Purified drinking water
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

Food and drinks
Porter service
Any type of flight
Travel Insurance
Trekking equipment
Tips for the guide/porter (tips are expected)

Add-ons and Options

Upgrade your Everest Base Camp experience with better accommodations and services. This add-on focuses on making your trek more comfortable and luxurious.

Luxurious Upgrade: Better teahouses, gourmet meals, and porter service.
Dedicated Porter: Each trekker has a dedicated porter to carry their luggage, allowing for lighter daypacks.
Photography Focus: A photography guide goes along with the trek, offering advice and itinerary adjustments for the best photos.
Kala Patthar Sunrise: An additional day to hike to Kala Patthar for expansive views of Everest at sunrise.
Island Peak Climbing Extension: Expands the trek to include the ascent of Island Peak, with the required permits, guides, and equipment.

Additional Info

Everest Base Camp via Salleri Permits

We've Got You Covered for Permits

Prior to departing, you will require two official permits:

Entry Permit to Sagarmatha National Park: This permit is required to enter the national park where Everest Base Camp is located.
Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card: This card is required for all trekkers in Nepal.

We handle all the paperwork, so don't worry. Your package already includes these fees.

Everest Base Camp Trek Difficulty

Are You a Good Fit for This Trek? Let's Discuss Getting Ready

This is a moderately difficult trek. Long walks, some challenging climbs, and several days at high altitude are all part of the true adventure. You will enjoy this journey if you have experience trekking and are in a reasonable level of fitness.

Physical Expectations:

Five to seven-hour treks per day
Rough trails, steep climbs, and descents

How to Get Ready:

Four to six weeks prior to your trek, begin your training.
Concentrate on aerobic exercises (consider jogging, stair climbing, and brisk walking).
Develop core and leg strength.
To become accustomed to the weight, hike with a loaded backpack.

Altitude Sickness: Be Smart, Be Safe

Altitude sickness may become a concern once you surpass 3,000 meters. To aid in your body's gradual adjustment, our itinerary includes scheduled acclimatization stops, particularly in Namche Bazaar.

Ways to Avoid Altitude Problems:

Every day, consume three to four liters of water.
Avoid smoking and drinking while hiking.
Don't rush; instead, walk steadily and slowly.
If you feel uneasy, talk to your guide.

Typical Warning Signs to Look Out for:

A headache
Feeling queasy or not hungry
Fatigue or lightheadedness
Breathlessness or difficulty falling asleep

You'll be well taken care of during your trip thanks to the first aid and altitude care training our knowledgeable guides have received.

Packing List: Don't Forget These

What you'll need to stay cozy and safe is as follows:

Appropriate hiking boots (be sure to wear them out)
Windproof and waterproof outer shell
Warm gloves, a woolen hat, and trekking poles
Strong sunscreen and sunglasses that block UV rays
Refillable water bottles
Power banks and headlamps for gadget charging

Everest Base Camp via Salleri FAQs

What is the Everest Base Camp via Salleri trek?

This is a 15-day overland and trekking adventure to Everest Base Camp starting from Salleri, offering a budget-friendly and culturally immersive alternative to the classic Lukla flight route.

How is this trek different from the standard EBC trek?

Unlike the classic fly-in trek to Lukla, this route begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Salleri, avoiding flight costs and crowds, and offering a deeper cultural experience through less-visited Rai and Sherpa villages.

How difficult is the Everest Base Camp trek via Salleri?

This trek is considered moderately challenging. It includes multiple days of walking—typically around five to seven hours per day—over rugged terrain and at high altitudes. However, the itinerary is designed with acclimatization days, especially in places like Namche Bazaar, to help your body adjust. If you're reasonably fit and have some prior trekking experience, you'll be well-suited for the journey.

Do I need to worry about altitude sickness on this trek?

Altitude sickness is a real concern once you reach elevations above 3,000 meters, but the trek’s gradual ascent and planned acclimatization stops are there to help mitigate the risk. Staying hydrated, walking at a steady pace, and listening to your guide’s advice are the best ways to stay safe. Our team is trained in first aid and altitude care, so you’ll be in good hands if you start feeling unwell.

How do I prepare physically for the trek?

Getting ready for this trek isn’t just about packing your bags—it starts weeks before. A combination of aerobic exercises like jogging or cycling, strength training, and uphill hiking with a loaded backpack will help your body get used to the physical demands. Aim to start training at least four to six weeks ahead of your trek. The more prepared you are, the more enjoyable your journey will be.

What permits do I need, and do I have to arrange them myself?

You’ll need two permits: the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and the TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card. The good news? These are already included in your package, so our team will handle all the paperwork. You can simply relax and look forward to the adventure ahead.

Is porter service included in the package?

The standard package doesn’t include a porter by default, but you can easily add one for an additional fee. Having a porter means you’ll only carry a light daypack with essentials, while your main luggage is taken care of. If comfort and ease are important to you, this is definitely a worthwhile option.

What’s the best part of the trek via Salleri?

Many trekkers say that the best part is the journey itself—the quieter trails through villages like Phaplu, Takshindo, and Kharikhola, the breathtaking views of Everest from Gokyo Ri, and the sense of accomplishment when you finally stand at the base of the world’s tallest mountain. Along the way, you’ll make meaningful connections with fellow travelers and locals, and come home with stories you’ll tell for a lifetime.

What are the transportation options from EBC back to Kathmandu after completing the trek?

Following our Everest Base Camp via Jiri itinerary, you will trek back to Lukla from EBC and fly to Kathmandu in a commercial aircraft. Another option is a helicopter flight from Gorak Shep or Lukla to Kathmandu.

The final option is trekking back to Lukla and spending another 4 to 5 days descending to Bhandara or Phaplu to end the trek and drive back to Kathmandu.