Everest Base Camp Trek

The cost of the Everest Base Camp Trek package usually ranges from USD 2,055 to USD 5000 per person. The package’s cost varies depending on the duration of the trek, the season, group size, and the services provided. The price is usually higher during the peak season (spring and autumn). Similarly, the higher the luxury, the more expensive the trek package.

Booking a trekking package with a local and registered trekking agency is more reliable and affordable. These packages include services such as accommodation, transportation, meals, guides, and porter fees. You can add extra services and customize the trek packages. However, the prices will rise accordingly. Many trekking agencies even provide group discounts. These trek packages do not include additional and personal charges. You can plan your itinerary in a way that best fits your budget and preferences.

Himalayan Leaders offer affordable 18-day Everest Base Camp Trek packages. We also offer group discounts. Here are the costs of our trek package:

Spring | March to May

Spring is one of the best times to explore the beauty of the Everest region. It brings life with blooming rhododendrons and vibrant landscapes. The weather during this time is generally mild and pleasant. With warmer temperatures and clear skies, you can enjoy stunning views of the Himalayan peak and immerse yourself in the beauty of the surrounding nature.

Summer/Monsoon | June to August

The summer months in Everest coincide with the monsoon season, which means heavy rainfall and cloudy skies. Trekking in these months can be challenging due to slippery trails, frequent rainfall, and the risk of landslides. However, Everest offers lush green landscapes and fewer crowds for those seeking a quieter and more serene experience.

Autumn | September to November

Autumn is the best time to visit Everest Base Camp, with clear skies, mild temperatures, and stunning views of the Himalayas. The weather is stable, making it ideal for trekking and outdoor activities. The colorful autumn foliage adds to the beauty of the landscapes, creating a picturesque backdrop for trekkers. This season also coincides with major cultural festivals in Nepal, providing opportunities to experience.

Winter | December to February

Winter brings cold temperatures and snowfall to the Everest region. Thus, trekking to Everest Base Camp is challenging and snow-covered, requiring proper gear and experience for navigation. However, for adventure trekkers looking for a quieter and more enjoyable experience, winter can offer breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains and serene landscapes.

The Everest Base Camp Trek’s highest point is at Kalapather. It is at an elevation of 5,644 meters (18,520 feet). The high elevation results in trekkers getting altitude sickness or acute mountain sickness. It is because the higher you go, the lower the oxygen level in the atmosphere. The lower oxygen levels in the bloodstream lead to altitude-related symptoms. The best way to avoid altitude sickness is to take rest days during the trek to acclimatize. Acclimatization helps your body adjust to higher elevations and its surroundings.

In other words, it helps with physiological adaptation, which reduces the chance of altitude sickness. It is crucial to take acclimatization days during high-altitude treks like Everest Base Camp. Despite it being a rest day, you must stay active. It helps your body to get used to the growing altitude and changing surroundings.

During our 18 Days Everest Base Camp Trek, we take two days as rest days for acclimatization. These two days are:

Day 04: Rest day in Namche Bazaar

We will spend the first rest or acclimatization day at Namche Bazaar. As it is important to stay active, we will take a short excursion around the village. Namche Bazaar is a trading hub of the Khumbu region. Hence, there are many activities and things you can do to keep yourself busy. We will visit the Tourist Visitor Center, which is close to the headquarters of the Sagarmatha National Park. You will learn about the Sherpa culture along with the Everest region’s flora and fauna.

We can also take a side trip to Khumjung and climb the airstrip at Syangboche. The Everest View Hotel lies just above Syangboche, one of the highest mountains in the world. Similarly, we can tour a sacred monastery, Khumbila, which houses a yeti scalp. The famous Hillary School, also close to the monastery, is worth visiting. In the evening, we can explore around Namche Bazaar.

Day 07: Rest and hiking to Chukung Ri(5546 m /18195 ft) and back to Dingboche

We will take our second acclimatization day at Dingboche. On this day, we will take a short excursion to Chukkung. The village is about 5.3 kilometers (3.1 miles) from Dingboche. The rocky peak of Chukkung Ri, at an elevation of 5,546 meters, is on the outskirts of Chukkung. It is a physically demanding uphill climb. It takes 2 to 3 hours to climb the peak one-way. The top of the peak offers a rewarding view of Mount Imja Tse, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, and Makalu. Then, you will head back to Dingboche village.

Absolutely! Beginners can take the Everest Base Camp Trek with proper preparation. However, they must have reasonable health and fitness levels. They must be able to trek uphill and downhill on steep and narrow trails for 5 to 6 hours on average. Physical and mental preparation plays a significant role in the Everest Base Camp Trek. Similarly, beginners are highly advised to ascend to higher elevations gradually. The trek’s highest point is 5,644 meters. This helps to acclimatize the body, lowering the risk of altitude sickness.

Exercise and training are other crucial factors beginners must consider during the Everest Base Camp Trek. While on trek, you must walk several hours on varied terrain daily. Thus, it is important to undertake exercise, running, and hiking activities. It is also essential to consult with healthcare professionals before trekking if you have any pre-existing health conditions. The physically demanding route can also be mentally strenuous, so mental preparation is also important. Proper equipment and gear are also crucial for beginners, so it is highly recommended that they invest in quality gear. Beginners should research and consult with trekking agencies before embarking on the journey. They can get valuable information and guidance to help beginners take the Everest Base Camp Trek challenge.

The Annapurna Base Camp and Everest Base Camp are two of the most popular trekking destinations in Nepal. Both treks are moderately challenging and offer rich and thrilling trekking experiences. So which one is the best for you?

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek begins in Pokhara and travels to the rural areas of the Annapurna region. It is one of the easily accessible trek destinations of the country. Similarly, the trail passes picturesque Gurung and Magar settlements, terrace farms, and diverse landscapes. You will also come across several monasteries and temples. Annapurna Base Camp is a rich and adventurous trek. The highest point of the Annapurna Base Camp is 4,130 meters above sea level, which is relatively lower than the elevation of Everest Base Camp. The trails of Annapurna Base Camp are also comparatively less demanding.

Each trek has its charm and uniqueness. Both are moderate journeys suitable for beginners. Everest Base Camp is comparatively more demanding and costlier than the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. You can choose to trek based on your requirements and preferences. Whichever trek you choose, you will achieve an unforgettable and rewarding trek experience.

Lukla is the gateway to the Khumbu region. Flying there is the most popular and common way of starting the Everest Base Camp Trek. You can fly from the domestic terminal of Tribhuvan International Airport or Manthali Airport, Ramchhap.

A flight from Kathmandu to Lukla takes around 20 to 30 minutes. Meanwhile, to catch a flight from Mathali Airport, you must first drive to Ramechhap. It takes around 4 to 5 hours of driving. Hence, many trekkers take an early morning drive to catch their flight to Lukla from Manthali Airport. You will land at one of the world’s most dangerous airports with a short mountain-side runway, Tenzing Hillary Airport, Lukla.

The Lukla flight usually costs around USD 180 to USD 300 per person. It is usually expensive during peak tourist seasons (spring and autumn). The weight limit for the Lukla flight is 15 kg. You will get a 5 kg weight allowance for hand carry and 10 kilograms of luggage. The airlines usually charge an additional USD 1 per kg for extra luggage weight. The Lukla Airport is known for its volatile weather. The weather changes rapidly and can cause flight delays or cancellations. Therefore, if you are taking a Lukla flight, consider adding extra days to your itinerary in case of flight delays or cancellations.

For the Everest Base Camp Trekking, you will require two permits. These include:

Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit

The Everest Base Camp Trek route passes through the Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its diverse and rare flora, fauna, and ecosystem have made it a protected area. Therefore, trekkers must obtain a national park entry permit, which they can acquire in Kathmandu or at the Sagarmatha National Park entrance gate.

The costs of the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit are as follows:

• SAARC Nationals: NPR 1500 per person
• Non-SAARC Nationals: NPR 3000 per person

Note: Children below ten years old are eligible for free entry.

Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit

Everest Base Camp is in the Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality of the Khumbu region. Therefore, trekkers must obtain the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit. You can get this permit in Lukla or from the Sagarmatha National Park Counter if you arrive from Jiri or Salleri.

The costs of the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit are as follows:

• SAARC and Non-SAARC Nationals: NPR 2000 per person for the first four weeks and NPR 2500 per person afterward.

When you book the 18-Days Everest Base Camp Trek with Himalayan Leaders, the package includes permits.

Classic Trails

The trails of Everest Base Camp are famous for being one of the classic ones of Nepal. It is the same trail that Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa took to reach the summit of Mount Everest. Hence, many trek enthusiasts and mountaineers walk the trails to Everest Base Camp or the summit. You will travel from the subtropical dense forests of rhododendrons, oaks, and firs to highland meadows. Moreover, the trails are adventurous and offer beautiful scenery. You will come across diverse landscapes on varied terrains.

Breathtaking Mountain Views

One of the major highlights of this trek is the opportunity to witness panoramic views of majestic mountains, including the world’s highest peak, Mt. Everest, standing tall at 8,848 meters (29,028 feet). However, it’s important to note that the view of Mount Everest is not visible from the base camp. To catch a glimpse of the iconic summit, trekkers must ascend to Kala Patthar at an altitude of 5,644 meters (18,520 feet). From there, they can marvel at the awe-inspiring sight of Mt. Everest and the surrounding Himalayan peaks.

Rich Biodiversity

The Everest Base Camp region beyond the mountains is well-known for its rich biodiversity. Trekkers can explore the Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This national park is home to a wide range of fascinating wildlife. This includes elusive snow leopards, Himalayan Thars, musk deer, Himalayan Black Bears, and various species of birds. The chance to encounter these unique animals in their natural habitat adds to the excitement and wonder of the trek. Hence, it makes the journey a truly unforgettable experience for wildlife enthusiasts.

Immersion in Sherpa Culture

One of the unique aspects of the Everest Base Camp trek is the chance to immerse oneself in the rich Sherpa culture. The Sherpa people, known for their mountaineering skills and warm hospitality, inhabit the villages along the trekking route. Interacting with the Sherpa community offers a glimpse into their traditional way of life, customs, and beliefs. Trekkers can visit monasteries, witness traditional ceremonies, and better understand the Sherpa heritage. This cultural exchange adds a profound dimension to the trekking experience, creating lasting memories and fostering a greater appreciation for the Himalayan region.

It is common for trekkers to suffer from altitude sickness during the Everest Base Camp Trek. Since the base camp lies at a high elevation, the low oxygen level leads to altitude sickness. So how can you prevent this?

Here are a few ways you can prevent altitude sickness during the Everest Base Camp Trek:

• Ascend gradually to allow your body to adjust to the higher altitude, temperature, and surroundings.
• Take rest days to acclimatize as you move to higher elevations, but stay active.
• It is important to stay hydrated, but avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol intake and smoking while on a trek.
• Carry medications like acetazolamide to help prevent altitude sickness. However, consult with health professionals before using them.
• Be attentive to your body and symptoms. If you notice symptoms, take immediate action, such as taking medication.
• If the symptoms continue to persist, climb down to the lower elevation.

Thrilling Challenges

Trekking to Everest Base Camp comes with its fair share of challenges. The high altitude and rugged terrain require physical fitness and proper acclimatization. However, the infrastructure and trekking facilities in the region have been extensively developed to ensure the comfort and safety of trekkers. Along the trekking route, you will find plenty of teahouses and lodges. These provide accommodation, warm meals, and a place to rest and rejuvenate. These establishments also offer opportunities to meet and connect with fellow trekkers worldwide, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared adventure.

Scenic And Diverse Landscapes

Be ready to trek through the dense subtropical forests of rhododendrons to highland meadows and glacier moraines. The scenery changes as you move from the lower altitude regions to higher ones. You will come across several rivers, wooden bridges, cascading waterfalls, icefalls, and glaciers. Similarly, you will cross diverse terrain while on your way to Everest Base Camp and back. The trekking trails are one of the most scenic and diverse ones in the country.

Traditional settlements

You will come across several picturesque and charming Sherpa villages along the way. Similarly, as you move to the higher region, you will come across numerous small and traditional Tibetan settlements. You will spend a night at these small and cozy teahouses and lodges in these villages. It offers an excellent opportunity to experience the warm hospitality of the locals. Likewise, it is a window to glimpse the local culture, customs, and lifestyles. These villages and settlements house ancient monasteries and gompas. You can visit them and connect with your spirituality.

Unpredictable Weather

While on the Everest Base Camp Trek, you will experience significant changes in weather and temperature. So, expect unpredictable weather changes as you move to the higher region. The temperature is relatively colder in high-altitude areas. Similarly, high winds are common at noon. Despite the season, the weather changes rapidly. It can create problems for trekkers, who must prepare adequate clothing and gear for the trek.

Mountain Views

The Everest Base Camp Trek offers grand views of the world’s highest mountain and other surrounding peaks in an up close and personal matter. You will witness some of the highest mountains in the world, like Makalu, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Cho Oyu, Thamserku, and many more. The Everest Base Camp, at an altitude of 5,364 meters, serves as a great vantage point. Likewise, Kala Pathar, at 5,644 meters, is another popular vantage point that offers breathtaking mountain views.

The Everest Base Camp trek is popular worldwide as one of the most famous and challenging treks. Each year, countless trekkers embark on this journey to reach the Everest Base Camp at 5,364 m (17,598 feet). The journey starts with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. From here onwards, you will begin your trek to the Everest Base Camp. Along the way, trekkers pass through picturesque Sherpa villages, immersing themselves in the local culture and enjoying the warm hospitality of the Sherpa people. You will travel past picturesque and famous villages like Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, Gorak Shep, and many more. Throughout the journey, the spectacular mountain views will keep you awe-struck.

Similarly, the scenic trail lies within the Sagarmatha National Park. Hence, you will be able to observe the unique Himalayan flora and fauna. Along the way, you will cross rivers on wooden suspension bridges and pass by cascading waterfalls, glaciers, icefalls, and moraines. Overcoming these challenges gives a sense of achievement and boosts your morality. You will climb up to the base camp and a high-altitude viewpoint of Kala Pathar. Then, you will retrace your step back to Lukla, the ending point of the trek. The Everest Base Camp Trek is an extraordinary adventure that combines breathtaking natural beauty, awe-inspiring mountains, and unique wildlife encounters. It offers an unforgettable opportunity to explore the Himalayan region. It provides a perfect blend of adventure, nature, and cultural experiences.

It is best to start training for the Everest Base Camp Trek two or three months before the journey. As you move to a higher altitude, the journey becomes more physically straining and stressful. Hence, you must have reasonable strength, stamina, and endurance. It also requires strong mental resilience and positive motivation. There are various exercises and training one can undertake to prepare for the EBC Trek.

You can join a gym and hire a fitness trainer. They will provide you with valuable advice on building your fitness. You can also undertake training and exercises on your own. Focus on exercises like cardiovascular, strength building, and endurance building. Exercises such as running, jogging, hiking, cycling, and swimming. Similarly, you can undertake exercises like push-ups, pull-ups, squats, plants, deadlifts, lunges, etc. Start with easy workouts and gradually increase the intensity. Also, be consistent with your exercises. For mental preparation, you can undertake yoga and meditation. It helps to build a strong mentality to tackle the stress during the journey. Research about the trek and its challenges. It helps you to be better prepared for the unforeseen events.

Everest Base Camp Trek is a moderate journey that requires reasonable health and fitness. There is no need for prior experience, but you must be physically and mentally prepared. The starting of the trek is easy, with a scenic 30-minute flight to Lukla. However, from Lukla, you will have to cover a distance of approximately 130 km (round trip). It takes 12 to 14 days to complete the journey. Similarly, the average walking hours per day is between 5 to 6 hours. Hence, Everest Base Camp is a demanding venture.

With proper preparation, the trek can be easier and more comfortable. Trekkers should prepare physically and mentally for the journey. As you go higher, the trails become more demanding due to the high altitude. Similarly, the weather becomes more unpredictable, and the temperature drops. Trekkers can also experience altitude-related sickness. If trekkers can understand the physical and mental toll of the trek, they can easily overcome them in the most effective way. It makes the Everest Base Camp Trek more enjoyable.

Tea houses, lodges, and guesthouses are standard accommodations along the Everest Base Camp route. Our itinerary includes accommodation options tailored to meet your needs and preferences. From cozy teahouses to comfortable lodges, we have got you covered. Each accommodation is carefully selected to provide a safe and relaxing environment after a day of trekking. You can expect clean rooms, warm blankets, and hearty meals provided with care.

On your Everest Base Camp adventure, you will stay in cozy places called tea houses or lodges. They offer simple amenities yet a comfortable stay. You will share bathrooms and dining areas with other trekkers. Decorated with Nepali charm, they provide a cozy retreat after a day of trekking. Most of the teahouses provide hot showers and Wi-Fi, catering to the needs of every individual for additional charges.

These tea houses also offer meal services, but the menu can be limited. It mostly features Nepalese and a few Western, Indian, and continental cuisines. The staple Nepali food, Daal Bhat, is available everywhere. It is a high-carb and high-protein food that consists of rice, lentil soup, curries, vegetables, and pickles. The other food items include bread (Tibetan/ chapati), porridge, cornflakes, soups, eggs, oats, momo (dumplings), chowmein, pasta, thukpa, spaghetti, sandwiches, burgers, fries, Sherpa stew, and other local delicacies. You will find options like tea (black/ milk/ green), coffee, hot chocolate, soft drinks, etc. In higher altitude regions, it is best to avoid caffeine, chocolate, and alcoholic beverages.

You must understand that accommodation can vary, and you will get more basic amenities as you ascend to higher elevations. Including accommodation on our tour package ensures that you can focus on enjoying the breathtaking views without worrying about where to spend the night.

Everest Base Camp Trek is not only a journey but also a rewarding and unforgettable experience. It is the ultimate destination for trek enthusiasts around the world. Additionally, it is also an excellent option for adventure seekers, naturalists, and cultural explorers. Its moderate trails are also perfect for beginners and seasoned trekkers alike. You should trek to the Everest Base Camp at least once for many reasons.

You will fly and land at one of the most dangerous airports in the world, the Tenzing Hillary Airport. It gives you a thrilling taste of what is to come ahead on your journey. You will get an aerial glimpse at the Everest region landscapes and towering mountains. From here, you will trek on diverse trails on varied terrains within the Sagarmatha National Park. If you are lucky, you can witness rare and endangered Himalayan wildlife species like musk deer, red panda, and Himalayan monal. Similarly, you will pass by traditional villages and monasteries and stay at locally run teahouses. As you get close to the Everest Base Camp, you will come across the spectacular Khumbu Glacier and Khumbu Icefall. Upon reaching the base camp, you will witness the grand mountain views from a close range.

The Everest Base Camp Trek is an enriching and fulfilling venture that mesmerizes you. The enchanting mountain views and serene trails allow you to connect with your inner spirituality. It is a surreal adventure that gives you a taste of something extraordinary. It is also a cultural tour that immerses you in the rich and unique Sherpa and Tibetan culture. Therefore, you must take the Everest Base Camp Trek at least once.

The Everest Base Camp is 5,364 meters above sea level. However, the highest point of the trek is Kala Patthar, which is 5,644 meters above sea level. To provide you with clear information on how high the Everest Base Camp is, take a look at the elevation gain of each day:

Travel insurance is mandatory for Everest Base Camp Trek. It is a high-altitude trek with some risks. Travel insurance provides financial protection against unexpected events while traveling. It covers medical expenses, trip cancellations or interruptions, lost or delayed baggage, and emergency evacuation like helicopter rescue. Travelers can choose the insurance coverage based on their needs and travel plans.

For Everest Base Camp, you must have travel insurance that covers an altitude of up to 5,500 meters. Similarly, it must cover medical expenses for altitude-related sickness and injuries. The insurance must also cover helicopter evacuations. In an emergency, your trekking agency will use the travel insurance to provide immediate rescue operations and medical assistance. Travel insurance ensures you have the right level of protection for your dream trips. It gives you peace of mind and allows you to enjoy your travel worry-free.

Nepal is a safe country for travelers. Many trek destinations lie in remote areas but have well-designated trekking trails and routes. Trekkers must follow proper precautions and safety guidelines when trekking. For a safe traveling experience in Nepal, take a look at some tips:

• Plan your itinerary carefully with adequate rest days.
• Hire a well-reputed and registered trekking agency. Also, find an experienced and licensed guide and porter to accompany you.
• Always research local customs and cultural norms to respect the traditions of your destination.
• Consider other minor details such as electricity, internet, ATM, tipping, and other personal expenses.
• Pack the right plugs of your electronics so you can charge them.Find out about internet options, like getting a local SIM card or
• portable Wifi to stay connected throughout the trek route.Pack light and smart to avoid paying extra for luggage.
• Learn about tipping tricks and customs to thank people properly, and make a daily budget for food and transportation to keep track of your spending.

The mountain views during the EBC Trek are breathtakingly spectacular. As you travel through the Khumbu region, breathtaking vistas of towering peaks, including Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and countless others, will accompany you. The rugged beauty of the Himalayas stretched out before you, with snow-capped summits piercing the deep blue sky. As you hike through valleys and over mountain passes, each turn in the trail reveals a new vistas.

The crisp mountain air and clear skies further enhance the EBC Trek experience. It allows for uninterrupted views of some of the world’s highest and most iconic mountains. It’s an adventure that will leave you spellbound. Moreover, the majestic nature of the mountain will forever remain memorable. You will come across several vantage points that offer glorious views of some of the world’s highest points. Some of the famous vantage points along the Everest Base Camp Trek routes are:

• Namche Bazaar
• Everest View Hotel
• Chukkung Ri
• Tengboche Monastery
• Nangkartshang Peak
• Everest Base Camp
• Kala Patthar

Similarly, here is the list of mountains you will see while trekking up to the Everest Base Camp:

• Everest (8,848 meters)
• Lhotse (8,516 meters)
• Makalu (8,485 meters)
• Nuptse (7,861 meters)
• Ama Dablam (6,812 meters)
• Thamserku (6,608 meters)
• Kangtega (6,782 meters)
• Pumori (7,161 meters)
• Cho Oyu (8,188 meters)
• Island Peak (6,189 meters)

Every viewpoint offers a different perspective of the mountain panoramas of the Everest region. The sunrise and sunset are incredibly stunning. You can witness the red, orange, and pink-hued sky as the golden sun rises or sets with the glistening mountains on the backdrop. These truly spectacular sights make your Everest Base Camp Trek more memorable and rewarding.

Trekking with Himalayas Leaders offers you with numerous benefits. Here are a few reasons why trekking with us is an excellent decision:

• We are a government-registered trekking company and a leading agency in the field. We provide you with local expertise, cultural insights, and safety.
• Our experienced guides are typically Sherpas or locals intimately familiar with the region’s terrain, weather patterns, and traditions.
• We offer personalized attention, considering your preferences and abilities, to tailor the journey to suit you best.
• Trekking with us is often more affordable than other trekking agencies.
• We offer the best deals at the most affordable prices with hassle-free booking. A portion of our profit goes to social development.
• Our dedication, expertise, and commitment to customer satisfaction ensure that we exceed your expectations.
• Himalayan Leaders is committed to eco-friendly tourism.

Clothing

• Long-sleeved and lightweight trekking shorts
• Insulating top and bottom layers
• Windproof/ waterproof jacket
• Down or fleece jacket
• Lightweight trekking pants
• Hiking shorts for hot days
• Warm trousers
• Moisture-wicking inner wear
• Moisture-wicking trekking socks and warm socks
• Sturdy and comfortable trekking shoes
• Sandals and camp shoes
• Gloves
• Scarves
• Hats
• Gaiter

Equipment And Gear

• Trekking back (40 to 50 liters)
• Rucksack
• Trekking poles
• Thermal water bottle
• Sleeping bag
• Rain cover

Miscellaneous

• Toiletries
• Headlamp or Flashlight
• Power bank
• Adaptors and plug
• Extra batteries
• Personal items
• Medicines