Everest Base Camp Trek From Kathmandu

On average, it takes 12 days to do the entire Mount Everest base camp trekking. It usually starts from Lukla, where you land from Kathmandu on a 35-minute flight. Commencing from Lukla, you will trek through Kumbhu region and then to the Everest Base Camp. This takes around 09 days of hiking and descending down back to Lukla takes around 04 days.

The best season for Everest Base Camp trek is autumn, from September to November. During this time, the weather is clear with mild temperatures, offering stunning views of the Himalayas. The colourful landscapes and vibrant flora add to the beauty of the journey. Trekkers can witness breathtaking sunrises over Everest and explore attractions like Namche Bazaar and Tengboche Monastery. Additionally, the festive atmosphere during autumn enhances the overall trekking experience, making it a favourable time for adventurers.

If you are starting your trek from the south East Ridge than your Base Camp will be 5,380 m (18,513 ft) on the south side of Everest in Nepal. If you are trekking via Gorakshep below the Kala Pathar then your base camp will be is 5,545 metres.

The altitude of the Everest Base Camp trek varies as you hike up. At the starting point Lukla, the altitude is 2800 meters. Going up to Namche Bazaar in Kumbhu region, the altitude further ups itself to 3400 meters. When you reach the Everest Base Camp, you will be at a whopping altitude of 5364 meters. Further up, as you go to Kala Patthar for a clearer view of the Everest peak, you will reach at an altitude of 5643 meters.

The inclusions of the Mount Everest Base Camp trek are as follows:

- A round trip by flight between Kathmandu and Luka

- All accommodations during the trek, in guest houses, tea houses and mountain lodges

- Sightseeing tours in the areas covered by the trek

- Mandatory trekking permits for Sagarmatha National Park and TIMS

- Entry permit for the Khumbu region

- All government and local taxes required during the tour

- Porters for carrying baggage weighing up to 10 kgs

- An expert trekking guide

- A basic medical kit

The Everest Base Camp trek is not recommended for beginners. It's a moderate to difficult level trek lasting 12-15 days, demanding good fitness, stamina, and prior trekking experience. The challenging terrain and high altitudes make it unsuitable for beginners. However, with proper training and preparation, adventurers can conquer this iconic trek and savour its breathtaking views.

Trekking up to the Everest Base Camp is one of the exhilarating experiences one can have in their lives. It is an uneven trail with snow-capped mountains in the background. A lot of trek enthusiasts all over the world have successfully completed this trek.

Sometimes, the unpredictable weather conditions and the high altitude may hinder you to fully enjoy the hike, but it is quite manageable with a few precautions and alertness. So, if one plans, prepares and packs properly, he/she will definitely be able to finish this iconic trek.

Yes, it is safe to trek to the Everest Base Camp as it guarantees a secure and adventurous journey. You should consider booking your Everest Base Camp trek package with Thrillophilia as it is known for organising such experiences throughout the different terrains of India. We work with seasoned guides, and trek leaders, ensuring safety. Our dedicated on-ground team and round-the-clock customer support prioritise your safety throughout the adventure. 

The month of May at Everest Base Camp is the transitional period from the spring season to the summers. While the days during this month remain hot around 22 degrees Celsius, the temperatures drop drastically at night, sometimes reaching 0 degrees Celsius. 

The total approximate distance to be covered to reach the Everest Base camp is around 130 KM, out of which, 65 KM needs to be covered on each side - ascending and descending. Having a difficult level of trekking, this route can take up to 12 to 14 days to get complete, depending on the speed of your group. 

Though training is not required for the Everest Base Camp Trek, prior trekking experience is essential due to its challenging terrain and difficulty level. The Everest Base Camp trek itinerary spans 12 long days, demanding good fitness levels. With proper training and preparation, you can conquer this iconic trek and indulge in its breathtaking beauty.

Trekking in the Himalayas is a moderate-level trek. It is of course comparatively challenging than other mountain ranges. But it is not at all impossible. People ranging from the age of 7 years to 70 years have successfully completed Mt Everest base camp trek.

The Everest Base Camp lies at the foot of the highest mountain in the world. There will be unpredictable weather conditions and high altitude, but all this thrill will be worth it when you finally reach the base camp.

A lightweight pair of “Gore tex” will be the best for your Everest Base Camp trek. These boots provides you with great ankle support and also helps you to keep your feet dry. You can get these boots in all shapes and sizes. You can also opt for gumboots as this will help you with your grip and keep off the ice from entering your shoes.

Veg and egg dishes and safe drinking water throughout the trek is available.

To plan an Everest Base Camp trek, start by researching routes, permits, and gear. Consider your fitness level and acclimatisation needs. Book your trek package from Thrillophilia ensuring accommodation, meals, permits, and experienced guides. Pack essentials like sturdy boots, warm clothing, and a first aid kit. Train beforehand to build endurance and prepare for high altitudes. 

To reach the Everest Base Camp, you first need to reach Ramechhap by taking a 5 hour long car, jeep or Hiace bus ride from Kathmandu. Lukla, which is the starting point of the Everest Base Camp trek, is accessible by flight from Ramechhap. From Ramechhap Airport, you can take a short flight to Lukla and begin your Mount Everest Base Camp trek towards Phankding.

Walking to Everest Base Camp requires you to travel across rugged terrain, spanning approximately 130 kilometres round trip. The trail presents challenges like steep ascents, rocky paths, and high altitudes reaching up to 5,380 metres. The climate varies from mild to freezing, with unpredictable weather conditions. Stamina and good fitness levels are required for enduring long hours of trekking each day.

1) Bring enough money: There are no ATMs in Lukla, so one is advised to carry enough money with them in case of need for an emergency. And even for buying trekking equipment in Kathmandu. It is one of the best and cheapest place to buy the same.

2) Bring your own Tea: Yes, tea is very expensive at Everest. But getting hot water won’t cost you much. Carry your own tea bags to be used while on the trek.

3) Mentally prepare yourself: As this is not an easy trek, you should prepare yourself mentally for the task that is ahead of you. This means, be prepared for extreme weather conditions, All accommodation on the trek to Everest Base Camp is in small tea houses, run by the local Sherpa people or Mountain Lodges. There are options for showers lower down on the trail, if you decide to use them, however, many people keep clean by using baby wipes and a bowl of warm water each day. The toilet situations can be difficult at times, as in the tea houses they are generally not Western-style toilets, rather just a hole in the ground instead of a toilet bowl. 

4) What to Carry: Warm clothes, sunglasses, trekking boots, gloves, trekking stick, woollen caps among other trekking equipment you want to carry. However, the most important thing to bring is a good pair of trekking shoes that you have hiked in previously. Kathmandu is a great place to buy trekking clothes that are both cheap and of decent quality. If you can bring your own sleeping bag otherwise you can rent one for about 500-600 rupees a day.

5) Prepare for extreme weather: If it’s sunny you might be surprised at how warm it can get during the day. Most trekkers wear t-shirts and shorts for the first few days while the elevation is still low. When the sun sets the temperatures drop quick. Wear a warm hat while sleeping and take a Nalgene bottle filled with hot water and keep it in your sleeping bag to stay warm. 

6) Stay Hydrated: Make sure to drink plenty of water while on the trek. Do carry extra water bottles with you at all times.

7) Altitude Headaches: A headache can be one of the first signs of altitude problems. Do carry suitable medications for the same. Small headaches are common and should not stop you from trekking or worry you. However, if it persists or increases, it might be advisable to ascend or even trek down.

8) Avoid the Sun: Taking care of your skin and eyes are important. Sunburns happen much quicker at high elevation so make sure to apply sunscreen a few times a day and wear a hat. Sunglasses are a must-have and if you wear prescription glasses it’s good to come to Nepal with a pair of prescription sunglasses or at least a clip-on.

9) Dress in Layers: Layering allows you to easily regulate your body temperature and stay comfortable while trekking. It’s even better if your layers have zippers so that you have even more control of your body temperature. 

10) Bring a camera: This trek is one of the most beautiful Himalayan Treks. So much so, that one would want to stop at every step and take pictures to make memories for life.

11) Bring Extra Batteries/Charging Packs: In the cold, your batteries will die much quicker than they do at home. This holds true for basically every kind of electronics you'll be using from phones to cameras to kindles. While some of the tea houses allow you to change things, they all charge you for it (some more than others). An easy way to avoid this is to bring spare batteries and a portable charger.

While the ideal duration for the Mount Everest Base Camp trek is 12-15 days, it varies based on fitness and stamina levels. Trekkers with good endurance can complete it in 7-10 days. However, the time frame ultimately depends on the chosen route's distance and individual capabilities. It also ensures a rewarding experience for those seeking the adventure of a lifetime in a shorter duration.

Day 1: 2.5-hour long trek from Lulka to Monjo

Day 2: 2 to 3 hours from Monjo to Namche Bazaar 

Day 3: 20-minute long additional trek towards Namche Museum

Day 4: Namche to Phunge Tenga for 3.5 hours, Phunge Tenga to Tengboche Monastery for 2.5 hours, and Tengboche Monastery to the village of Deboche for 20 minutes

Day 5: Deboche to Shomare via Pangboche for 3 hours and more 2.5 hours to Dingboche

Day 6: No trek on this day, you can further choose to hike around Dingboche to keep pace on

Day 7: Dingboche to Lobuche for a few hours in which will also get a chance to cross the Dudh Koshi River

Day 8: A 5 to 7 hours long trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep to Everest base camp and then back to Gorak Shep. 

Day 9: Hiking/trekking from Gorak Shep to Kala Pathar for around 3 hours and descend back to Kala Pathar

Day 10: A few hours-long treks to Namche Bazar while crossing places like Tengboche and Phungi Thanga.

Day 11: 5 hour long trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla

Day 12: No trekking on this day

• Pashupatinath Temple: Located on the banks of the Bagmati River, the Pashupatinath Temple is a sacred hindu temple complex. Serving as the seat of lord Pashupatinath, the temple houses various idols dating back to several centuries. 
• Thamel: A visit to any new destination is incomplete without visiting a market, and similar is Thamel. From cafes to local craft stores and hotels, this place is loaded with all basic necessities required for enjoying a full fledged vacation. 
• Garden of Dreams: The Garden of Dreams or the Swapna Bagicha is the perfect respite to relax and experience the epitome of rejuvenation. From a small pond to various rare species of plants, one can find everything here.
• Hanuman Dhoka Temple: Covering an area of 5 acres, this temple complex houses various small buildings as well as pillars. The temple was built by Malla Kings and Shah Dynasty and imprints of which can still be seen in its architecture. 
• Kumari House: Originally belonging to a local family, this place is famed for housing a girl which is believed to be the incarnation of goddess Durga. People from all over the world visit here to get just a small glimpse of this girl. 
• Indra Chowk: Loaded with the hustle and bustle of locals and crowded with tourists from various countries, this place is one of those spots where you can get everything ranging from souvenirs to local delicacies. 

• Head to the top of the Swayambhu Temple: Dating back to many centuries, the Swayambhu Temple, also known as the Monkey Temple is one of the most important religious sites in Kathmandu. On your visit to the city, climb over 300 rock stairs to the top of the temple and soak in mesmerising sights of the valley of Kathmandu. 
• Explore Bhaktapur: Also known as the City of Temples, Bhaktapur is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to some of the most ancient temples known to man. In addition to the Pagoda style tramples, you can also see many delicate Thangka paintings, stone masonry and other traditional handicrafts here. 
• Paragliding:Enjoy soaring high up above in the sky whilst awaking the adrenaline in you with a thrilling paragliding experience in Kathmandu. Soak in scintillating views of the snow-capped mountains and the valley as you get a bird’s eye view of the tiny hamlets, colourful monasteries and Himalayan lakes here. 
• Gorge on local snacks and delicacies:When in Kathmandu, don’t miss out on the wide range of local delicacies that you can tuck into here. Some of the things that you can try on street-side or local restaurants in Kathmandu include Chatamari (pancakes with spicy filling), Sekuwa (kebab), Choila (spiced and grilled meat), momos, the Nepali thali and more. 

While Kilimanjaro is situated at an elevation of 5,895 metres from the sea level, the Everest Base Camp is located at the foothills of Mount Everest, and has an elevation of 5,364 metres. However, owing to the varied terrains and extreme weather conditions, Kilimanjaro is much harder to climb.

Here is the list of other best Nepal treks that you can book from Thrillophilia:

1. Annapurna Base Camp Trek
2. Mardi Himal Trek
3. Poon Hill Trek
4. Langtang Trek
5. Manaslu Trek