Everest Base Camp Trek

Destination

Everest Base Camp Trek: Journey to Witness the Top of the World

Duration

14 Days

Trip Grade

Hard

Start/End

Kathmandu/Kathmandu

Best Seasons

Spring (April-May) and Autumn (October-November)

Transport

Private Car/Flight

Accommodation

Teahouses/Lodges

Permits

Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit, TIMS Card

Overview of Everest Base Camp Trek

Join the Everest Base Camp trek. It's an amazing journey through the Himalayas, right to the base of the tallest mountain in the world.

The Everest Base Camp trek is one of the world’s most iconic high-altitude adventures. Settled in the lap of the tallest peak in the world, Mount Everest has an elevation of 8,848.86 m (29,031 ft). The base camp sits at 5,364 meters (17,598 ft), offering a way to view the majestic Mount Everest and its towering neighbors.

This classic EBC trek journey starts with a scenic flight to Lukla. Then, you trek through Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar. You’ll pass through dense forests, cross high suspension bridges, and visit ancient monasteries. The camp is in Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its stunning mountain views and rich Sherpa culture.

Days of struggle feel worth it when you get a glimpse of Everest every once in a while as a motivation to move forward. Reaching the feet of Everest through luscious forests, cool breezes, and friendly people in the villages. Mount Everest's view from base camp is not so visible, so most folks who trek to Everest base camp in Nepal also climb Kala Patthar, a beastly little climb that affords you a great view of Mt. Everest.

Highlights of EBC Trek

Scenic mountain flight to Lukla from Kathmandu/Ramechhap
Trek past renowned Sherpa towns like Namche, Tengboche & Dingboche
Cross into Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Acclimatization hikes with great Everest vistas
See Tengboche Monastery, the spiritual center of Khumbu
Stand at Everest Base Camp (5,364m), a lifetime goal
Sunrise from Kala Patthar (5,555m) with Everest in view
Experience Sherpa culture, monasteries & traditional villages
Walk along the Khumbu Glacier and view the Icefall

Everest Alternative Names:

The traditional Tibetan name for Mount Everest is Chomolungma (also spelled Qomolangma), which means "Goddess Mother of the World." It's pronounced "CHOH-moh-LUNG-muh."
In Nepal, the mountain is called Sagarmatha, meaning "Goddess of the Sky."
Some people use Qomolangma to refer to the whole group of peaks (Everest, Nuptse, and Lhotse).
"Mount Everest" remains the most widely recognized name, being the highest peak in the world, often used to describe the massive, snow-covered mountain located on the border between Nepal and Tibet.

Everest Base Camp Altitude and Elevation Profile

Day	Route	Altitude	Trekking Duration
1	Arrival in Kathmandu	1300 m	–
2	Kathmandu – Lukla – Phakding	2,860 m (Lukla) 2,610m	3–4 hours
3	Phakding – Namche Bazaar	3,440m	5–6 hours
4	Acclimatization day in Namche	3,440 m	2–3 hours (hike)
5	Namche Bazaar – Tengboche	3,867 m	5–6 hours
6	Tengboche – Dingboche	4,410 m	5–6 hours
7	Acclimatization day in Dingboche	4,410 m	3–4 hours (hike)
8	Dingboche – Lobuche	4,940 m	5–6 hours
9	Lobuche – Gorak Shep + EBC visit	5,164 m (Gorak Shep) 5,364 m	7–8 hours
10	EBC – Kala Patthar – Pheriche	5,545 m (Kala Patthar) 4,280 m	7–8 hours
11	Pheriche – Namche Bazaar	3,440 m	6–7 hours
12	Namche Bazaar – Lukla	2,860 m	6–7 hours
13	Lukla – Kathmandu	1,300 m	35-min flight
14	Departure from Kathmandu	1,300 m	–

14-Day Everest Base Camp Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1300m)

Pick-up from Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA).
Transfer to a hotel in Thamel.
Trek briefing & last-minute gear shopping.
Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 2: Flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, Trek to Phakding (2,850m)- 40 min flight, 3/4 hour trek

Take a 40-minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla with amazing views of the mountains.
The distance from Kathmandu to EBC is about 153 km.
Your trek journey begins to Phakding through Sherpa villages
The first day trek is light, so you have plenty of time for exploration.
Overnight in Phakding.

Note: If there are flight issues at Kathmandu Airport, we may need to drive for 4-5 hours to reach Ramechhap and then take a flight to Lukla from Ramechhap Airport.

Day 3: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)- 6/7 hours

We’ll cross several suspension bridges, including the iconic Hillary Suspension Bridge.
The path leads us to the Sagarmatha National Park checkpost, where we'll complete our permit registration.
Continuing the trek, we’ll eventually reach Namche Bazaar and get the first glimpse of Mount Everest.
Overnight in Namche Bazaar.

Day 4: Rest Day and Acclimatization at Namche Bazaar (3,440 meters)

Explore the charming town with its peaceful cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops.
Short hike to Everest View Hotel for panoramic views.
Hike options include visiting Hillary School, Sherpa settlements, monasteries, Syangboche Airport, and yak farms.
Overnight in Namche Bazaar.

Day 5: Trekking from Namche (3,440m) to Tengboche/Deboche (3,860m)- 5 hours

Traverse through forests, encountering challenging ups and downs.
You may encounter wildlife like musk deer, pheasants, and Himalayan tahr.
Visit Tengboche Monastery, the largest monastery in the Khumbu region.
Stunning views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and Lhotse.
Overnight in Tengboche.

Day 6: Trekking from Tengboche (3,860m) to Dingboche (4,360m)- 5 hours

Begin the day with a hearty breakfast before setting off for Dingboche.
Pass by chortens, mani walls, and quaint villages, including Pangboche.
Enjoy breathtaking views of Mt. Ama Dablam from Pangboche.
Overnight in Dingboche.

Day 7: Acclimatization Day in Dingboche

After reaching Dingboche, it's crucial to allow your body to adjust to the higher altitude and thinner air.
To make the most of your day, hike up the ridge above Dingboche.
Overnight in Dingboche.

Day 8: Trekking from Dingboche to Lobuche (4,910m)- 5 hours

Follow the trail leading to a short uphill section near the ridge above Pheriche Village.
As you ascend, you'll soon find yourself alongside the impressive Khumbu Glacier.
Stunning views of Pumori, Nuptse, and Everest.
Overnight in Lobuche.

Day 9: Trekking from Lobuche to EBC (5,364m) and back to Gorak Shep (5,164m) - 6/8 hours

Today marks an extraordinary journey as you ascend to Everest Base Camp.
Experience the closest view you can ever get of the world's highest mountain, savor the moment, and mark it as one of your remarkable achievements.
Return to Gorak Shep, and along the way, witness the Khumbu Glacier, the highest glacier in the world.
Overnight in Gorak Shep.

Day 10: Hike to Kala Patthar (5,555m) viewpoint, trek back to Gorak Shep, then to Pheriche (4,240 m)- 5 hours

Hike to Kala Patthar to witness the awe-inspiring sunrise over Mt. Everest and other majestic peaks.
Trek back to Gorak Shep for a well-deserved breakfast and a brief rest.
Continue your journey, trekking to Pheriche.
Overnight in Pheriche.

Day 11: Pheriche to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m)- 6 hours

Descend through beautiful landscapes and Sherpa villages.
Enjoy one of the last days of EBC and reflect on your journey.
Overnight in Namche Bazaar.

Day 12: Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2860 m)- 7/8 hours

Final day of trekking, passing through Phakding.
Celebrate the completion of the trek in Lukla.
Overnight in Lukla.

Day 13: Lukla to Kathmandu (1300 m)- 40 mins

Today marks the conclusion of your trekking adventure.
Use this flight as a moment to reflect on your incredible achievement and cherish the memories of your journey.
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, we will head to our respective hotels.
The rest of the day is yours to spend; you can freely explore the city.
Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 14: Departure from Kathmandu

Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) for your international flight.
Reflect on your journey and be grateful for the memories.

Best Himalaya Base Camp Trek: EBC

It's a dream for most to be immersed in the beauty of the Himalayas, especially in Nepal. The country has 14 mountains of a height over 8000m high, giving it the name of “eight-thousanders.” The country does not just carry the name but means it with its whole heart, as the highest mountain peak in the world, “Mount Everest,” with a height of 8848.48 meters, also resides in Nepal, making it a most recognized tourist spot. Among all the iconic trails around the globe, the Everest Base Camp trek stands out as the best Himalaya Base Camp trek, offering unmatched views, cultural immersion, and a tangible brush with the world’s tallest mountain.

What To Pack For the Everest EBC Trek?

Head

Warm hat & cap
Sunglasses with UV protection
Headlight
Beanie
Earmuffs

Body

Thermal layers
Warm and Waterproof jacket
Thermal Gloves
Trekking Trousers and Shorts
Neck buff
Waterproof gloves

Footwear

Trekking shoes
Hiking boots
Warm Hiking socks
Gaiters

Essentials/Equipment

Sleeping bag
First aid kit
Trekking poles & Duffel bag
Water Bottles and Hydration Bladders
Raincoat
High-energy snacks
Reliable oxygen supply
Maps & Compass/GPS

Best Season For Everest Base Camp

If you're planning an Everest Base Camp trek, choosing the right time of year is key to having a safe, enjoyable experience. Here's a breakdown of the best and worst times to visit EBC:

Spring (March to May)- Peak Trekking Season

Spring is one of the best times to trek to Everest Base Camp. The weather is mostly clear, temperatures are comfortable, and the trails are alive with blooming rhododendrons. Visibility is excellent for mountain views, and this season overlaps with the main Everest climbing season, so Base Camp is full of energy and activity as climbers prepare for summit attempts. If you want clear skies, vibrant landscapes, and a lively trekking atmosphere, spring is ideal.

Autumn (Late September to November)- Clear Skies and Crisp Views

Autumn is another top choice for the EBC trek. The monsoon rains have cleared the air, leaving behind crystal-clear mountain views. The days are dry and cool, which is perfect for hiking. This season also gives you a chance to experience local festivals like Dashain and Tihar, adding cultural depth to your adventure. It’s a favorite time for many trekkers because of the stability and beauty of the weather.

Monsoon (June to August)- Less visible nature

The monsoon season brings heavy rain, cloud cover, and muddy trails. Trekking to Everest Base Camp during monsoon can be risky due to landslides, flight cancellations, and poor visibility. Mountain views are often blocked by thick clouds, and the trail conditions can be difficult.

Winter (December to February)- For Experienced Trekkers Only

Winter on the Everest Base Camp trail is harsh. Expect freezing temperatures, snow-covered paths, and fewer trekkers. While the skies are often clear, the cold can be extreme, especially at higher altitudes.

Choosing the time and season to visit EBC Everest is very important, as weather is very unpredictable in the Himalayan region, and anything can happen at time; therefore, necessary safety measures should be implemented.

Why Choose Everest Base Camp as Your Ultimate Trekking Destination?

Nepal is a dreamland for adventurers and trekkers. Even if you cannot climb the almighty Everest, you can still feel its cool breezes, majestic view, and surreal trails by visiting the most popular and best base camp, which is the Everest Base Camp. Located at an altitude of 5,364 meters (17,598 ft), the base camp is more than just a point on the map. This journey doesn’t just bring you to a high-altitude campsite; it brings you closer to Sherpa culture, breathtaking glaciers, and panoramic views of Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam.

It is the apex of days of walking through rhododendron forests, hanging bridges, and high mountain passes. With every step, you're enveloped by the pristine natural beauty and the uplifting energy of the Himalayas.

Here’s what makes Everest Base Camp one of the most sought-after adventures in the world:

Unbeatable Views: Witness Mount Everest, the tallest mountain on Earth, from iconic vantage points like Kala Patthar.
Rich Culture: Experience traditional Sherpa villages such as Namche Bazaar and Tengboche, and visit ancient Buddhist monasteries.
Thrilling Landscapes: Trek alongside Khumbu Glacier, cross swinging suspension bridges, and marvel at icefalls.
Teahouse Comfort: Stay in cozy mountain lodges and enjoy the warm hospitality of locals even at the highest altitudes.

Why Choose Everest Base Camp Trek Against Other Himalayan Routes?

The Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek stands apart from other Himalayan routes in several key ways. It offers the closest possible trekking view of Mount Everest, the highest peak on Earth. The height of Mt.Everest in feet is 29,031.7 ft, making it a dream destination for adventurers worldwide.

Unlike other treks, the EBC route is steeped in Sherpa culture and mountaineering history, with iconic stops like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche Monastery, and Everest Base Camp itself.

While treks like Annapurna Base Camp or Langtang Valley offer diverse scenery and are often less crowded or accessible, the EBC trek delivers unmatched altitude, global recognition, and the thrill of walking in the footsteps of Everest climbers. However, it’s more physically demanding and busier, especially in peak seasons, which adds both challenge and excitement to the experience.

History of Everest Base Camp

The history of Everest Base Camp is closely tied to the human quest to summit Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak at 8,848.86 meters. The South Base Camp in Nepal was first used during the 1953 British Expedition led by Sir John Hunt, when Sir Edmund Hillary of New Zealand and Tenzing Norgay, a Sherpa from Nepal, became the first confirmed climbers to reach the summit on May 29, 1953.

In the 1970s, as trekking tourism began to grow in Nepal, EBC became a destination in its own right, welcoming trekkers from around the world seeking to follow in the footsteps of mountaineering legends.

What's included:

All ground transport in private vehicles, including airport transfers.
Full board meals with tea/coffee (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
Best available twin-sharing lodge-to-lodge accommodation during the trek, we provide you with an attached bathroom with a hot shower at Lukla, Phakding, and Namche.
One highly experienced, helpful, and friendly guide; porters (1 porter for 2 people) and their food, accommodation, salary, equipment, and accidental insurance for all staff
Round-trip flight Kathmandu–Lukla and Lukla–Kathmandu, including departure taxes.
First aid medical kit.
All the required permits are provided.

What's excluded:

Travel insurance.
Snacks and other personal expenses.
International airfare.
Personal trekking equipment.
Nepal entry visa
Tips and gratuities for trekking staff and drivers

Everest Base Camp Trek for Solo Travelers: Is It Safe and Possible?

The Everest Base Camp trek is on nearly every adventurer's bucket list, but what if you’re going solo? Good news: Yes, it’s possible to do the EBC trek solo, but only with a guide, and for many, it’s a deeply rewarding experience. But it does come with risks and important considerations. Safety depends on how well you prepare. The Everest base camp trek isn’t technical, but it’s physically demanding and takes you into high-altitude terrain where things like altitude sickness, unpredictable weather, and injuries can quickly become serious.

Tips for a Safe & Enjoyable Solo Trek

Hire a local guide
Even if you're trekking solo, having a licensed guide is now required and adds safety. Guides know the trail, help with permits, and support you if you feel sick or get lost.
Train before your trek
Build your stamina by walking or hiking regularly before the trip. The EBC trek is long and can be tough, especially with the high altitude.
Take it slow and rest often
Don’t rush. Walk at your own pace and take rest days to adjust to the altitude. This helps prevent altitude sickness.
Bring the right gear
Pack light but smart. Good hiking boots, warm clothes, a sleeping bag, and a water purifier are must-haves for the trek.
Benefits of Solo Everest Base Camp Trek
Freedom to go at your own pace
A solo trekker’s main reason to go solo is the feeling of freedom, to walk as fast or as slow as you want. There is no need to match others.
Connect with the locals
Nothing beats the feeling of excitement and nervousness of being in a whole new place with unknown people, but talking to guides, teahouse owners, and locals can make the trip easier and enjoyable.
Meet other trekkers
Meeting new people from different cultural backgrounds with the same dream of exploring nature brings different souls to one destination.
Peaceful feeling
Every step you take as you trek solo gives you a different perspective on life. Enjoy nature, the mountains, and your thoughts.
Big achievement
Completing the Everest Base Camp trek solo is a big achievement. Embrace yourself with gratitude and grace.
Cons of Trekking EBC Alone
No help in emergencies
If you get sick or injured, there's no one to assist right away.
Can feel lonely
Walking alone for days might feel isolating, especially in quiet areas.
Flight or weather delays are stressful alone
Dealing with delays to/from Lukla without support can be frustrating.

Why Choose Hi Nepal Tours and Treks?

With decades of experience, Hi Nepal Tours and Treks is a trusted name in Himalayan travel. We take pride in delivering exceptional trekking and tour experiences, marked by meticulous planning, safety-first operations, and culturally enriching encounters. Our team comprises highly skilled, licensed guides and dedicated support staff, all of whom are passionate about sharing the majestic beauty and heritage of Nepal.

Would you like to learn more about our EBC trek package?

Cost Breakdown For Everest Base Camp

Budget: Since everyone has different needs, and each need has a different cost, there is no set budget. How luxurious you want your lodging, meals, and other services to be will determine how much it costs.

Transportation: Depending on the size of your group and the mode of transportation you select, the cost will change.

Meals and Accommodations: The price of your meals and lodging will vary depending on the area and your individual preferences. While trekking, you can consume traditional foods like thakali (rice, lentil soup, and vegetables), dal bhat, Momo, noodle soup, thukpa, pasta, local bread, etc. You are sleeping in a teahouse at the lodge.

Guide and Porter: The cost of the guide and porter will depend on their experience level.

FAQs

How hard is it to climb to Everest Base Camp?

The difficulty stems from the altitude, multi-day trekking, and basic conditions, rather than technical climbing.

Can a beginner trek to Everest Base Camp?

Yes, beginners can do it with proper preparation. You don’t need climbing experience, but you should train with long hikes, build stamina, and understand altitude sickness.

Is Everest Base Camp worth it?

Yes, absolutely. You get stunning Himalayan views, the thrill of being near the world’s highest peak,

Can I do Everest Base Camp alone?

Technically, yes, but it is not recommended and is increasingly discouraged by authorities and trekking agencies. High altitude, weather, and health risks are real. A guide or porter can be a literal lifesaver.

What is the full form of EBC?

The full form of EBC is Everest Base Camp. The elevation of Everest Base Camp is 5,364 meters (17,598 feet) above sea level.

What is the height of Mt. Everest?

Mount Everest stands at 8,848.86 meters (29,031.7 feet) above sea level.

Is it hard to breathe at Everest Base Camp?

Yes. At 5,364 meters (17,598 feet), the air has about 50% less oxygen than at sea level. Most people feel short of breath, especially when moving.

Is there a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla?

Yes, there is a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, which is about 40 minutes long.

What is the elevation from Lobuche to EBC?

The altitude elevation from Lobuche to EBC (Everest Base Camp) is 5,364 m.

What is the elevation from EBC to Kala Patthar?

The altitude elevation from EBC Kala Patthar is 5,555 m.

Is Mt. Everest visible from base camp?

No, you cannot see the summit from the base camp itself; to get the best view of Everest, you have to hike up to Kala Patthar.

Why is acclimatization necessary while climbing up in the mountains?

Acclimatization helps your body adjust to low oxygen at high altitudes. Without it, you risk altitude sickness, which can be dangerous.

What happens if there are flight delays or issues at Kathmandu Airport for the Lukla flight?

If flights from Kathmandu are delayed, you may need to drive 4–5 hours to Ramechhap and fly to Lukla from there.

When and who summited Mt. Everest?

Sir Edmund Hillary of New Zealand and Tenzing Norgay, a Sherpa from Nepal, became the first confirmed climbers to reach the summit on May 29, 1953.