Everest Base Camp Trek: A Journey to the Foot of Mount Everest.

Overview

The Everest Base Camp Trek is a 15-day adventure that takes you through some of the most iconic and breathtaking landscapes in the Himalayas. Starting from Kathmandu, this trek offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and the thrill of reaching the base camp of the world’s highest mountain, Mount Everest.

Your journey begins with a thrilling flight from Kathmandu to Tenzing-Hillary Airport in Lukla. From Lukla, you trek through picturesque Sherpa villages and lush forests, crossing high suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River. As you ascend, you enter Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.

In Namche Bazaar, the vibrant heart of the Khumbu region, you will acclimatize and explore local markets, visit the Hillary Museum, and learn about the rich Sherpa culture. The trail continues to Tengboche, home to the famous Tengboche Monastery, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and other peaks.

Further along, you reach Dingboche and Lobuche, trekking through high-altitude landscapes with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. At Gorak Shep, you make the final push to Everest Base Camp, standing at 5,364 meters. This iconic site offers an unparalleled close-up view of the Khumbu Icefall and the towering peaks that surround it.

One of the highlights of the trek is the hike to Kalapatthar, a viewpoint that offers the best panoramic views of Mount Everest and the surrounding peaks. At 5,550 meters, this spot provides a mesmerizing sunrise experience that is truly unforgettable.

Throughout the trek, you will stay in teahouses and lodges, experiencing the warmth and hospitality of the Sherpa people. The journey also includes visits to significant cultural and historical sites in Kathmandu, adding a rich cultural dimension to the adventure.

Highlights of Everest Base Camp Trek

Spectacular Views: Witness breathtaking views of the "King of Mountains," Mt. Everest, along with other towering peaks such as Mt. Makalu, Mt. Cho Oyu, Mt. Lhotse, and Mt. Lhotse Shar.
Kalapatthar: Take stunning photographs from Kalapatthar, a majestic viewpoint at 5,550 meters, offering panoramic views of Everest.
Tengboche Monastery: Visit the active Tengboche Monastery, one of the most significant spiritual centers in the Khumbu region.
Khumbu Glacier: Experience Nepal’s biggest Khumbu Glacier and the longest Ngozumpa Glacier.
Hillary Museum: Spend time at the Hillary Museum in Namche Bazaar, learning about the history of Everest expeditions.
Namche Bazaar: Stay two nights at Namche Bazaar, the bustling Sherpa capital known for its vibrant market and rich culture.
Sherpa Culture: Explore traditional Sherpa villages, their ancient monasteries, and the unique customs, traditions, and hospitality of the Sherpa people.
Sagarmatha National Park: Trek through this UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to diverse Himalayan flora and fauna.
World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu: Visit historical sites like Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa.

Day 1 :

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you'll be warmly welcomed by a representative from Mountain Discovery and Adventure. They will be holding a sign with the company's logo for easy identification. After a brief introduction and initial briefing about your trek, you'll be transferred to your hotel in a private vehicle. Take the remainder of the day to relax and recover from your journey. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 2 :

Day 02: Flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,810 m/ 9,219 ft) and trek to Phakding (2,640 m/ 8,661 ft). (14 km, 4-5 hr)

Early in the morning, you'll be transferred to Kathmandu airport for a scenic 35-minute flight to Lukla (2,810m/9,219ft). This flight offers stunning views of the Himalayas. Upon arrival in Lukla, you'll meet the rest of your trekking crew and begin trekking towards Phakding (2,640m/8,661ft). The trail descends through picturesque Sherpa villages and pine forests with views of Kusum Kanguru. After about 4-5 hours of trekking, you'll reach Phakding where you'll spend the night. Overnight in Phakding.

Day 3 :

Day 03: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazar (3,440 m/ 11,286 ft). (12 km, 5-6 hr)

Today's trek takes you from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,286ft). The path passes multiple prayer flag-draped suspension bridges as it traces the course of the Dudh Koshi River. You will enter the Sagarmatha National Park, home to Himalayan thars and musk deer, among other wildlife. The Everest entry point, Namche Bazaar, is reached after a strenuous climb. With markets, bakeries, and breathtaking views of the mountains, Namche is a bustling Sherpa town. Spend the night at Namche Bazaar.

Day 4 :

Day 04: Rest and Acclimatization day at Namche Bazaar.

Today is an acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar. Before continuing your ascent, it is imperative that you stay an additional day here to become used to the altitude. To get a broad perspective of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and other peaks, you can stroll a short distance to the Everest View Hotel. As an alternative, discover more about the Sherpa way of life and history of mountaineering by perusing the neighborhood market and stopping by the Sherpa Cultural Museum. Spend the night at Namche Bazaar.

Day 5 :

Day 05: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3870 m/ 12,696 ft). (10 km, 5-6 hr)

Leaving Namche Bazaar behind, today's trek takes you to Tengboche (3,870m/12,696ft). The trail offers stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam as you descend through forests of rhododendron and pine. You'll pass through the village of Phunki Thenga before ascending to Tengboche, known for its famous monastery with panoramic mountain views. Explore the monastery and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Overnight in Tengboche.

Day 6 :

Day 06: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche (4,360 m/ 14,304). (10.8 km, 4-5 hr)

Continue your trek from Tengboche to Dingboche (4,360m/14,304ft). The trail initially descends through forests before crossing the Imja Khola. As you ascend towards Dingboche, the landscape becomes more arid and the air thinner. Enjoy views of Island Peak and Lhotse along the way. Dingboche is a picturesque village with stone-walled fields, set against the backdrop of towering peaks. Overnight in Dingboche.

Day 7 :

Day 07:Acclimatization day at Dingboche.

Today is another acclimatization day in Dingboche. You can hike to Nagarjun Hill for breathtaking views of Ama Dablam, Makalu, and other peaks. Alternatively, explore Dingboche village, interact with locals, and learn about their traditional lifestyle and culture. Use this day to rest and prepare for the challenging trek ahead. Overnight in Dingboche.

Day 8 :

Day 08: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche (4,940 m/ 16,207 ft). (11 km, 6-7 hr)

Leave Dingboche behind and trek to Lobuche (4,940m/16,207ft). The trail ascends gradually with views of the Khumbu Glacier and peaks like Pumori and Nuptse. Pass through Duglha and ascend the steep terminal moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. Lobuche is a small settlement with basic teahouses, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks. Overnight in Lobuche.

Day 9 :

Day 09: Trek Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5,170 m/ 16,961 ft) & trek to Everest Base camp (5,363 m/ 17,595 ft). (8 km, 5-6 hr)

Today is a challenging yet rewarding day as you trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5,170m/16,961ft) and then continue to Everest Base Camp (5,363m/17,595ft). The trail winds through rocky moraine and glacial terrain alongside the Khumbu Glacier. Reach Everest Base Camp, where climbers gather for expeditions to the summit. Spend some time exploring Base Camp and soaking in the surreal surroundings before returning to Gorak Shep for overnight stay. Overnight in Gorak Shep.

Day 10 :

Day 10:Hike to Kala Patthar (5,545 m/ 18,192 ft) and trek to Pheriche (4,280 m/ 14,041 ft). (18 km, 6-7 hr)

Early morning hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m/18,192ft) for sunrise views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and other peaks. Kala Patthar offers one of the best panoramic views of Everest and is a highlight of the trek. After enjoying the sunrise, descend to Gorak Shep and continue trekking to Pheriche (4,280m/14,041ft). Pheriche is a small village with stunning views of Ama Dablam and the Khumbu Valley. Overnight in Pheriche.

Day 11 :

Day 11: Trek from Pheriche to Phroste village 3810m/12500ft

Today's trek takes you from Pheriche to Phortse Village (3,810m/12,500ft). The trail descends through alpine landscapes and passes through Pangboche, one of the oldest monasteries in the region. Enjoy the views of Ama Dablam and other peaks as you trek to Phortse Village, a traditional Sherpa settlement off the beaten path. Overnight in Phortse Village.

Day 12 :

Day 12: Trek from Phorste to Monjo 2835m 5-6 hours

Continue your trek from Phortse Village to Monjo (2,835m/9,301ft). The trail descends through lush forests of rhododendron and pine, following the Dudh Koshi River. Pass through Tengboche and Phunki Thenga before reaching Monjo, a village with a checkpoint for Sagarmatha National Park. Overnight in Monjo.

Day 13 :

Day13: Monjo to Lukla 2840m

Today's trek takes you from Monjo to Lukla (2,840m/9,318ft). Retrace your steps through villages like Phakding and Chaurikharka, crossing suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River. Enjoy the final views of the Himalayan landscape as you approach Lukla, where you'll celebrate the completion of your trek with your team. Overnight in Lukla.

Day 14 :

Day 14: Flight from Lukla to Kathmandu. 35 min flight.

Early morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu. Enjoy the scenic 35-minute flight back to Kathmandu, reminiscing about your adventure in the Everest region. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel. Spend the day at leisure, exploring Kathmandu or shopping for souvenirs. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with your trekking crew and celebrate your achievements. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 15 :

Day 15: Final Departure

A representative from Mountain Discovery and Adventure will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight. Exchange farewells and depart with unforgettable memories of your Everest Base Camp trek and the hospitality of Nepal.

FAQs

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I have never hike before, can I make it to Everest Base Camp?

Yes, you can. No matter who you are, as long as you are reasonably fit, can walk for 5-6 hours a day and trek/hike a few uphills, Sherpa Expedition and Trekking Trekking team will support you to the fullest to transform your dream of standing at Everest Base Camp into reality.

How long does it take to hike to Everest Base Camp?

The typical hiking route to Everest Base Camp takes between 7-12 days one way, depending on the starting point and the pace of the hiker

If the weather suddenly changes on the way, are there places to stay for safety?

Yes, there are numerous lodges in all villages along the route. So if you feel exhausted or find it difficult to trek, you can stay in any of these lodges.

what foods is best for Everest base camp trek?

Local vegetarian foods are the best for the Everest base camp trek rather than fried and meat foods. Nepal national dish Dal-bath( Rice-lantle soup, veg curry), noodle soup, garlic soup, and ginger tea are best for lunch and dinner.

Do I need to bring any bags for trekking? If yes, what kind?

During the Everest Base Camp trekking, you will be on a long journey for which you will need two bags to keep your belongings. A rucksack/duffle bag and a day bag for personal items. Sherpa Expedition and Trekking will provide you with a duffle bag (which is need to refund after the trek) that you can use throughout your entire journey and even afterward. These bags are durable and hence perfect for any kind of trekking journey. While the duffle bag will be carried by the potters, you will have to carry a day bag on your own. A day bag is a small backpack that has enough room for everything you will need on a day hike such as lunch, water, extra clothing, and perhaps a few personal items like a camera, battery chargers, etc.