Everest Base Camp Trekking

Everest Base Camp Trekking is a once in a lifetime holidays experiences with an adventure of the highest sort. The trek takes you through the beautiful Khumbhu valley, spectacular Everest view points and stunning Sherpa Villages leading you towards the Base camp of the Mighty Everest at 5430 meters.You will appreciate the beauty of the Everest region with  stunning view of Everest Ice falls, stunning glaciers and panorama of majestic mountains while you make your way up to the Everest Base Camp. The dramatic view of the mighty Mount Everest after a hike to Kala Patthar (5555 meters) from the base camp, will make the ascend worthwhile. The trek to Everest Base Camp will treat you with marvelous scenery and fabulous cultural experiences.Parts of the Mount Everest  Trekking takes you over 2900 meters. It is common for travelers to experience some adverse health effects due to the altitude regardless of your age, gender and fitness.Climbing high altitude quickly without letting body acclimatize will lead to Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). AMS is caused due to reduced air pressure and reduced oxygen level at high altitude. The best way to avoid AMS is to let your body adjust with the thin air of mountains by acclimatizing.

Our itinerary is specially designed to let you acclimatize properly. Your safety and experience is the utmost priority to us. So our team and our expert guide are always attentive to take care of your Everest trekking holidays.

The trek Cost Includes

  • All the International Arrival and Departure Transfers
  • 4 nights Deluxe Hotel Accomodations in Kathmandu
  • Domestic airport Transfers
  • Flight to/from the Trek kathmandu to Lukla to Kathmandu
  • Half Day Guided Cultural Sightseeing in Kathmandu heritage sits
  • Comprehensive Trekking Map
  • Authentic Nepali Welcome Dinner
  • All the accommodations, full board meals and hot beverages on the trek
  • Everest Trekking permit, local VDC permit and TIMS permit
  • Our Expert Trekking Guide and porters services during the trek.
  • Field staff Insurances
  • Domestic Airport Taxes
  • Down Jackets, sleeping bag, walking poles, duffel bag, facilities during the trek
  • Extensive First aid medical kit
  • Quick Rescue supporting services in case of Emergency
  • Applicable Government taxes
  • Himalayan Eco Trek team management services

The trek Cost Excludes

  • All the personal expenses like Alcoholic beverages, Bottled drinks etc.
  • Medical and Travel Insurances
  • International Airfare and taxes
  • Visa Fees
  • Gratuities/Tips
  • Emergency Helicopter Rescue charges
  • Main Meals in Kathmandu

Day 01: Arrival Kathmandu

Namaste and Welcome to the beautiful Himalayan country Nepal. Upon Your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, we will be happy to welcome you and assist you to your Hotel. You will have a brief orientation about your trek. The afternoon is left open for you to rest and explore your surrounding areas. In the evening, you will be enjoying traditional Nepali welcome dinner and cultural program in an authentic Nepali Restaurant.

Day 02: Half Day Cultural guided sightseeing in Kathmandu:

After having breakfast at your hotel, you will meet your guide for the half day sightseeing tour around Kathmandu valley. You will visit various temples and palaces listed in the UNESCO World heritage site in Kathmandu valley. Kathmandu Valley flaunts rich Newari culture with unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist influence. The valley of Kathmandu is covered with numerous ancient temples, shrines and palaces. The elegant ancient architecture with intricately carved details shows the prosperous past of the city. The close proximity of the sites and easy transport facilities will give you ample of time to explore these sites at your own pace. After the tour, our Trek leader/Guide will meet you for briefing to help you for the final preparation of the trek.

Day 03: Flight to Lukla / Start Trek to Phakding(2650 m)

In the early morning, you will be picked from your hotel to be transferred to the domestic airport for incomparable first scenic flight to Lukla (2827m). The exciting 40 minutes flight to Lukla is filled with amazing Mountain View. We will be flying parallel to the Himalayan giants bordering Nepal and Tibetan before landing on an airstrip built by Sir Edmund Hillary and the Sherpa in the mid-1960s. After landing, you will meet our porters who will be carrying the equipment throughout the trek. You will have time to explore the village before hitting the trail. We will start our trek to Phakding passing through Sherpa farm villages filled with Prayers Stones and prayer flags. Our trail descends towards Dudh koshi River and join the main trail to Namche bazaar. The walk is easy and traverses the small village of Chheplung and Ghat (2550) before arriving at our lodge in Phakding. Total walking time for the day is around 3-4 Hours leaving you time to stroll around the village to explore the local life style.

Day 04: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3450m)

After a hearty breakfast, we start from Phakding towards Namche bazaar by crossing a suspension bridge over the Dudh Koshi River. We set out on the trail as it wanders through rolling terrain, past blue pine and rhododendron forest, traditional homes and fields. We cross the same River to encounter glorious views of the snow-capped peaks of Kusum Kanguru (6369m) and Thamserku (6623m). We then walk to Monjo(2835) to enjoy our lunch to fuel our rest of the walk for the day . The walk now becomes more exciting with uphill journey until we reach the entrance to the Sagarmatha national Park where our Trekking permits are checked. After we enter the national Park, we gradually walk downhill to cross another suspension bridge over the Bhote Koshi River to Jorsalle Village (2805m). The pleasant walk on the river bed gets exciting as we cross another suspension bridge followed by steep hike to the village of Namche Bazaar. Namche Bazaar is the largest Sherpa village with colorful panoply of houses, restaurants and lodges. It is nestled in a u-shaped amphitheater surrounded by mountain ranges on three sides and opening out to the Bhote Khosi on the other. A slow and steady pace is recommended on this section of the trek as we are encouraged to make the most out of the fantastic photographic opportunities of the first appearance of peaks such as Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse and Taweche. You may notice you are travelling a little slowly as the effects of altitude start to become apparent. Total walking for the day is around 6 to 7 hours.

Day 05: Rest Day at Namche Bazaar for acclimatization

We stay in Namche for acclimatization, as we plan to hike high to gain strength, then descend again to sleep low, enabling our bodies to better adjust to the altitude. Namche, a prosperous village gained its importance at the time when the trade between Nepal and Tibet flourished. The town is filled with colorful shops, restaurants, and bakeries. It is best to enjoy both the sunrise and sunset views of the Himalayas from the national park headquarters. The early hike above town rewards us with a spectacular Himalayan sunrise and views of Khumbu peaks including Mount Everest. After the breakfast you will have option to visit National park headquarters or to walk for beautiful mountains view. The visit to National park headquarter will take us to the Sherpa Museum with interesting information about the Sherpa lifestyle and culture, the great Himalayas and flora and fauna of this region. Alternatively, the steep walk out of the village bowl will reward you with beautiful view of panorama of mountains like Mount Everest, Aama Dablam, Lhotse, Tawoche, Peak 38, Thamsherku.

Day 06: Namche to Tengboche(3860m)

Our route of today to Tengboche weaves in and out of side valleys with many small ups and downs through village of Kenjoma to finally join the trail from Khumjung. The trek continues along the rushing glacial waters of the Dudh Kosi with magnificent views of the mountains. The views of Everest and Ama Dablam are excellent from this part of the trek. We pass through Tibetan village of Sanasa, after which the trail drops to Phunki Thanga (3250m). From here the trail climbs steeply through the forest filled with silver fir, blue pines, rhododendron, magnolia and birch. Upon passing several prayer stones, a steep ascent will bring us to the famous Tengboche monastery at 3870m, with awe-inspiring panorama of the magnificent Himalayan giants like Ama Dablam, Mt. Everest, Kwangde, Tawachee, Kantega and Thamserku. Visiting the Monastery is an exciting part of the journey. The view from here is rightly deemed to be one of the world’s most magnificent sights. We spend the night in this beautiful village of Tengboche. (5 hrs).

Day 07: Tengboche to Dingboche(4345m)

We begin our walk by descending through forests of birches, conifers and rhododendrons to a lovely village of Deboche. After crossing the Imja Khola on a swaying suspension bridge high above the rushing river, the trail climbs past some magnificently carved mani stones and rhododendron forest to Pangboche at 3901m. Pangboche is the highest valley to have a year-round settlement. Pangboche Gumba, the oldest Gumba in the khumbu region, is once said to have contained relics of the skull and hand of a yeti. Beyond Pangboche the route enters alpine meadows above the tree line, mostly consisting of scrub juniper and tundra. We pass through alpine meadows, yak herds and Imjatse River to finally arrive at Dingboche. Dingboche Valley is a labyrinth of walls and pastures made by Imjatse River that flows down from the Island peak. The valley is filled with its exquisite views of Island Peak, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam (“Mother’s Charm Box”) (5 hrs).

Day 08: Acclimatisation Day in Dingboche(4345m)

A slow ascend is very important for acclimatization. Our stop in Dingboche is designed to allow our bodies to adjust to the thinning air of the mountain due to increase in altitude. A good way to spend the day is to hike to the Nzagazong Parbat at the height of 5000m from where we can enjoy the spectacular view of the Himalayan range. We can enjoy the magnificent view of Island Peak (6189m), south face of Lotse, the giant of Ama Dablam and Mount Makalu(8030m). The hike should help the body acclimatize effectively for more challenging days of the trek. After enjoying the beautiful view, we return to spend our second night at Dingboche. (4 hrs)

Day 09: Dingboche to Lobuche(4930m)

Today the trail diverts towards the north. It is very important for us to be well hydrated for this challenging walk towards Lobuche. We start for lobuche with a gentle climb along the upper trail heading above Pheriche Valley. From Periche, we walk along the northwest side of the valley through alpine scrub and yak pastures, enjoying picturesque views of Tawoche and Cholotse on west. Following the trails through farmlands and meadows along the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier, we reach the small village of Duglha to enjoy our lunch. After the lunch we climb steadily to Thokla Passs where we see long strands of prayer flags and stone memorials dedicated to Himalayan climbers who have perished in pursuit of their Everest expeditions over the last 50 years. We can enjoy a spectacular view of Pumori (7145m), Lingtren (6697m), Khumbutse (6623m), Changtse (7550m) Nuptse and Lhotse from here. We continue walking beyond Thokla Pass to reach Lobuche where we’ll spend a night. (5 hrs)

Day 10: Lobuche to Gorak Shep(5200m)

The first section of today’s trail follows the western side of the broad Khumbu valley and ascends gently through meadows besides the glacial moraine. The ascend towards Gorak Shep becomes steeper and rougher as it crosses several side moraines. En-route to Gorak Shep the conical peak of Pumori comes into view. On the lower slopes of this mountain a ridge extending to the south and terminates in a small peak. This peak is called Kala Pattar (meaning ‘black rock’) known for the best vantage point for viewing Mt Everest. The trail then makes a short descend onto the sandy, flat expanse of Gorak Shep. After a hike of 3 to 4 hours we will reach the Everest Base Camp. The Base Camp is one of the greatest highlights of the trek in the Everest region. We will be returning to the small settlement of Gorak Shep after our visit to the base camp.

Day 11: Gorakhshep to Pheriche(4240m)

We retrace our steps back to Dughla heading down the glacier and enter the lush and beautiful valleys, surrounded by spectacular snow-capped peaks. You can view Lobuche Peak and the Cholatse in the distance to the left of Ngazong Parbat from here. Here we can find a trekkers’ aid post, supported by the Himalayan Rescue Association which although not manned year round is well worth a visit if open. The center attracts world-renowned physicians who acquire data to analyze the effects of high altitude on human physiology. Then we move to Pheriche for a long relaxing tea break (7 hrs)

Day 12: Pheriche to Tengboche(3860m)

We ascend a short steep trail to the top of a small ridge for great views of Imja Valley, Ama Dablam and Kantega, before taking lunch at Orsho. After the lunch we descend through Shomare, Lower Pangboche to reach the suspension bridge over the Imja Khola River. We re-trace our steps back to Debuche before finally reaching Tengboche for a relaxing night. (6hrs)

Day 13: Tengboche to Namche Bazaar

We descend steeply to the suspension bridge at Phunkitenga where we will enjoy our short tea break. After enjoying a warm cup of tea, we cross the roaring Dudh Koshi River and ascend to Tashing. The trail now moves high above the valley through Shanasa before returning to Namche Bazaar. We will spend our night in Namche bazaar where we can enjoy services like hot showers, internet access, local bars and souvenir shops.

Day 14: Namche to Phakdingma

Leaving Namche Bazaar, we have a big descent today to Phakding. After breakfast at the lodge, the trail drops downhill through the pine forest, over the bridge and continues towards Monju. We need to check out from the trekking check post of the National park at Monju. We will soon arrive at Phakding after a short descend from the Monju. (3hrs)

Day 15: Phakdingma to Lukla

After the breakfast at Phakding we slowly retrace our way back to Lukla. Lukla is famous for its end of the trek celebrations, but we should not overdo it as the plane ride back to Kathmandu is not best enjoyed with a hangover! (3 hours)

Day 16: Flight from Lukla to Kathmandu

We rise early in the morning to be ready for the flight back to Kathmandu. We fly back to Kathmandu as we bid farewell to the Himalayas, thanking them for the awe-inspiring experiences. We will be picked up from the Kathmandu Airport to our hotel where we can relax after our great adventure. Now we can enjoy the relaxing warm shower, spa, lounge and bars. If you feel like celebrating the success of wonderful trek with awesome night party, we can recommend you with some happening place.

Day 17: Leisure in Kathmandu

A Leisure day for shopping, lounging at the pool, strolling to Durbar Squares or perhaps catching up to the places we missed earlier. We provide extra drive and drop services to anywhere in Kathmandu for convenient travel around the city.

Day 18: Departure from Kathmandu

Our Tour officer meets you in Hotel and picks you up for the Departure flight from Kathmandu’s International Airport. Bid goodbye to the beautiful Himalayan country Nepal and new found friends behind after a life changing experience while trekking in Nepal. We are always happy to welcome you back to Nepal for various other stunning Trekking adventures in Nepal, Bhutan and Tibet.

How long does it take to climb Mount Everest Base Camp? 

According to our package, the climb to the Base Camp will take 8 days. That will be on the 10th day after your arrival because the actual trek begins only on the 3rd day. It is necessary to ascend at this pace as climbing to higher altitude without letting your body acclimatize can lead to Acute Mountain Sickness.

 

How high is Mount Everest Base Camp?

The South Base Camp is at the height of 5430m (17815ft). This is the camp we will be visiting. There are two base camps. The second one, the North Base Camp, is in Tibet at the height of 5150m (16900ft).

 

Is trek to the Everest Base Camp dangerous?

The most dangerous thing about trekking Everest Base Camp is altitude sickness or Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). This can be easily avoided by letting your body acclimatize. Keeping your body hydrated, avoiding alcohol and eating a good amount of carbohydrate are other preventive measures. Don’t push yourself and listen to what your body is trying to tell.

Other danger is the Yaks that have been known to push off the trekkers down a hillside thus always walk on the wall side when hiking uphill. Other than this the dangers are of minor injuries like sprained ankle, stomach problems etc. The path is quite risk free. Some stretches has even been widened and smoothened for trekkers.

There is no need to worry as our guides are well trained to detect AMS and in First Aid medication. We also provide an Extensive First Aid Kit. They know the paths well and it is always safer with someone guiding you.

 

What are the best seasons to go to Everest Base Camp Trek?

March to April in spring and November to October in autumn are the best times to trek the Everest Base Camp (EBC). The temperature at these time ranges from warm to moderate and moderate to cool. This is good for trekking. Also, the sky is clear most of the time offering a great view of the mountains. In spring, the mountains will be covered with variety of flora and fauna making the hike up very pleasant.

 

Do I really need to use a guide for trekking to Everest Base Camp?

The routes to the Everest Base Camp are well marked and there are tea house lodges on the way. There are many information and suggestions on the internet that can give you a certain idea of what you need and how to proceed. However, it is highly suggested to hire a guide, unless you are an expert and are going with friends. Travelling alone is never a good idea. If you don’t want to hire a guide, travel with friends who has high altitude trekking experience and knowledge. Still, it is always better to opt for a guide as with a guide, it is much safer. A guide is well- informed about necessary matters, from health issues to the dangers to look out for and their solutions. They are methodical and capable of proceeding according to your need. Also, they know the local cultures, legends and myths that can enrich your experience. These are things you can miss out when on your own.

 

How hard is Everest Base camp trek?

Though not a walk in the park, trekking Everest Base camp is not as difficult as one might think. The most difficult part about it is walking long distance. If you are used to trekking, hiking up and down a few miles, and love to walk, it is not going to be hard for you. Another difficulty is the cold. It is very cold. Then, though much of the facilities have been upgraded, living in not so city like condition can be considered a difficulty. However, it is worth the journey.

 

How do I train for Everest Base camp trek?

Best preparation for Everest Base Camp trekking can be to walk for an hour and slowly increase it to 3-4 hours. Everest Base Camp trekking includes walking for 6-7 hours a day at longest, not without breaks. Include a lot of ups and downs in your walks and also do this carrying the weight equal to what you would be carrying during the trek. If there are hiking trails around, you can practice there. Do a lot of steep uphill climbing if available. You could cycle for hours too. Make a habit of drinking a good amount of water and take in iron rich foods like apple.

However, you do not have to be especially fit. Most people have made it to Everest Base Camp and back. You should be able to walk long distance. That is all. What matters is stamina and will. But if you have some health issues, you should definitely consult with your doctor.

 

How many miles do we walk each day?

It is 38 miles from Lukla to Everest Base Camp (EBC). It will take 8 days to reach EBC according to our plan.

Longest (6-7 hours) and shortest (3-4 hours).

Actual trekking begins only on the 3rd day of your arrival. That day we will walk for 3-4 hours only. Next day, the hike will take 6-7 hours. We rest on the 5th day to acclimatize and on the 6th, the hiking will be of about 3 hours. Next three days consist of 4-5 hours of walk. We reach the base camp on the 10th day.

Day 11 and 12 will have 7 and 6 hours trek back and rest consist of 3 hours. Trekking ends on the 15th day. For detailed information check our itinerary.

 

Do you take proper acclimatization during Mount Everest Base Camp Trek?

Yes. Our itinerary is especially designed to let you acclimatize properly. We station at two places- Namche (on day 5) and Digboche (on day 8) to let our body adjust for the higher climb. For more information check our itinerary. Further, our guides are trained to detect Acute Mountain Sickness and in first aid medication.

 

Could I take hot shower or wash clothes during the trek?

Yes. Hot water service is not available everywhere but it is available. It can cost from $2 to $5 as the resources needs to be brought spending a lot of their own money. It can be relaxing to enjoy this luxury.

 

Is Internet connection available en route?

There are internet cafes in Namche Bazzar and Lukla and few villages further up. The connection may not be very smooth and a little expensive but reasonable considering where it is. There is 3g internet facility all over the Mount Everest. Again, the connection might not be very smooth and reasonably pricey.

 

How do I charge battery?

Batteries can be charged in the lodges for some amount of money. However, it cannot be relied on. It is better advised to carry extra batteries. It will be much cheaper to buy three four batteries than to charge them. Keep the batteries warm to make it last longer as cold can drain it.

Do I need a backpacking tent?

You don’t need to bring packpacking tent. We will mostly be sleeping in tea-houses. In case you want to get a backpacking tent, here are some best backpacking tents under $200 to look for.

What kind of hiking backpack do you recommend? 

We recommend you to carry a lightweight backpack as you will be walking a lot. Here are some best hiking backpacks under $100 of 2017 to look at.

How much money should I carry?

How much money to carry really depends on the kind of services you want to enjoy. It should be noted that the higher you go more expensive the things become. Like a bottle of mineral water that cost only NRs. 20 in the Kathmandu valley can cost NRs. 100 (about $1) in Lukla and NRs. 300 (about $3) higher up at an altitude of 4000-5000m. Carry purifying tablets to save money. It costs you to charge your battery and for hot water services as well because these use the resources not easily available there (Around $2). It would be cheaper to carry 3-4 batteries. Most of the things like food and lodging are included in the cost of the package. Check over tab to see what the cost of the package covers and does not cover. How much money to carry depends also on what souvenir to buy and on whether you choose to tip. In conclusion, carrying about $300 and plus ($25-$35 per day) would be good enough for trekking Everest Base Camp.

 

How are the tea-houses on the trekking route?

Except for one or two luxury hotels, most of the tea-house lodges are descent with basic facilities. Expect a basic room with two beds, thin mattress, a pillow and a blanket for each. It is very cold up there and a blanket will not suffice. Bringing a sleeping bag is advisable. Though some lodges offer western style flush toilets, most tea houses have squat toilets with a bucket of water to flush.Always carry a roll of toilet paper and hand sanitizer.As you go up, the facilities and quality decline. The water is very cold. Some places may offer hot shower but that will cost you an extra $4- $5. Everything gets more expensive at higher altitude. In food, they offer various local and international cuisines and a number of choices of beverage.

 

What type of food will be served during the trek?

In tea house or lodge trekking, the food will be served from lodge menu. It includes traditional Nepali food of dal-bhat (cooked lentil with rice and vegetable options), variety of local and international cuisine and beverage choices. It should be kept in mind though that caffeine and alcohol is not good for high altitude trekking. Also, most of the meat needs to be brought from the cities, from plane to a porter’s back, in an unrefrigerated condition. Thus it would be better to avoid meat unless it is yak meat, available at some places. To name the items- chapattis, vegetable items and salad, soup, eggs and pasta/ noodles prepared in different ways, porridge, momo (dumplings), pies, pancakes, sandwiches and different flavored hot drinks and tea. Foods like pizza and spring rolls, beers and other soft and hard drinks can be found as well.

In camp trekking to Everest Base Camp (EBC), we provide both cooking utensils and a cook who will cater to your choices.

 

Do I need insurance for Everest Base Camp Trek?

Yes. It is not mandatory, though many trekking agencies require you to have a proper travel insurance, but it is strongly recommended. Very few small medical facilities are available as far as Namche and Lukla, with a small hospital in Khumjung. These facilities are quite expensive and requires you to pay upfront. Also, if something were to happen at the height of 4000-5000m and above or in case of emergency, the only option is helicopter evacuation and without an insurance it is not only going to be very costly but difficult to arrange as well. So it is best to have an insurance. Make sure the policy covers “hiking” up to at least “6000m” as the Everest Base Camp is at the height of 5430m. The policy should cover a little over the height you will be trekking so know the maximum height you will be undertaking.

 

What happens if there is an emergency?

In case of emergency, we provide backup staff and helicopter rescue services. Our guides and leaders are well trained in first aid and mountain rescues. Any safety concerns are speedily dealt with.

 

Do I need to bring First Aid Kit?

No. We will be providing an extensive first aid medical kit. It is included in the cost of the package and therefore no extra money will be charged.

 

Which currency should I bring to Nepal?

Any currency can be exchanged into Nepali rupees and vice versa. There are numerous ATMs in big cities and few in the rural areas. ATMs accepts most of the international cards. There are banks and ATM services en route Everest Base Camp (EBC) as well, at NamcheBazzar and Lukla. There may be some technical problems at times in these two places. However, you can get cash through credit card by paying 4% to 5% surcharge. All the receipts of money exchanges should be kept. You might be asked to show it later to change Nepali currency back into your own currency.

 

How much should I tip my guide and porter?

In Nepal, tips are not compulsory but a common practice. The standard is around 20% of the actual pay. Around $6- $8 tip to be shared among the staff (depending on the number of members) is good. This does not include the guide whom you may tip at the end of the trek. Tipping is entirely voluntary and depends on your satisfaction. We discourage over tipping and individual tipping that favors the ones in the front.

 

What permits do I need for Mount Everest Base Camp trek?

No trekking permit is required for regions like Everest, Annapurna and Langtang. However, National Parks and Conservation Area permit is required. There is no need to worry as this will be arranged by us. Its fee is included in the cost of the package.

 

What essential documents/items should I bring with me?

Your passport, 4 recent photos (passport size), insurance paper and any medical papers that might be of help in case of emergency.

 

Are guides of Himalayan Eco Trek insured?

Yes. They are all insured.

 

Do you provide gear or do we need to arrange it ourselves?

We do provide a sleeping bag, down jackets, rain poncho, walking poles and a duffel bag. The rest, however, needs to be arranged by the trekkers. If you are not sure as to what is required, you can check here.

 

How many guides and porters are on a trek?

It depends on the number of people in the group. Currently, there are 8 guides and 20 porters working with us. They are assigned as required.

 

How early should I book Mount Everest Base camp trek?

It is not a big deal. We are open for booking any time. A proper time period would be 3 months before the trip starts, but last minute booking is also available.

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