Everest Base Camp Trek

Everest Base Camp Trek


Location: Nepal
Trip: 16 Nights 17 Days
Max People: 2-15
Duration: 16 Nights 17 Days
Start Location: Kathmandu
End Location: Kathmandu
Region: Khumbu
Max Altitude: 5,364 m
Group Size: 2-15
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

Nepal is home to eight of the world’s tallest mountains and some of the oldest Hindu and Buddhist sites. The Kathmandu Valley is a treasure trove of ancient cities, each filled with captivating medieval palaces, pagodas, temples, statues, and stupas. Beyond the valley, the country offers unmatched adventure opportunities, with rich flora and fauna in every corner. The people of Nepal are equally extraordinary—whether it’s the Tharu communities living alongside majestic Asian elephants in the plains, or the resilient Yak herders of Dolpo. In its tropical jungles, the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger roams, while higher up, the legend of the Yeti persists. Despite the influence of modernity, the spirit of ancient Nepal endures, woven deeply into the lives of its people.

Short Itinerary

       Day

Itinerary

Accommodation

Meal

Day 01

Arrive in Kathmandu

Hotel 

[-/-/-]

Day 02 

Briefing and Full-day Sightseeing at Kathmandu

Hotel 

[B/-/-]

Day 03

Fly to Lukla and trek to Phakding

Simple Lodge

[B/-/-]

Day 04

Trek to Namche Bazar

Simple Lodge

[B/-/-]

Day 05 

Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazar

Simple Lodge

[B/-/-]

Day 06 

Trek to Tengboche

Simple Lodge

[B/-/-]

Day 07

Trek to Dingboche

Simple Lodge

[B/-/-]

Day 08

Acclimatization Day at Dingboche

Simple Lodge

[B/-/-]

Day 09 

Trek to Lobuche

Simple Lodge

[B/-/-]

Day 10 

Trek to EBC and back to Gorekshep

Simple Lodge

[B/-/-]

Day 11 

Trek to Kalapathar and back to Phireche

Simple Lodge

[B/-/-]

Day 12

Trek to Kyangjuma

Simple Lodge

[B/-/-]

Day 13 

Trek to Phakding

Simple Lodge

[B/-/-]

Day 14 

Trek to Lukla

Simple Lodge

[B/-/-]

Day 15 

Fly back to Kathmandu from Lukla

Hotel 

[B/-/-]

Day 16 

Full-day Sightseeing at Kathmandu

Hotel 

[B/-/-]

Day 17 

Final Departure

 

[B/-/-]

Tour Program

Expand All

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will meet and assist you, then transfer you to your booked hotel.


Overnight at Hotel [-/-/-]

After breakfast, complete your check-out procedure at the hotel, and then head out for sightseeing at Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath, and Patan Durbar Square.
 
Kathmandu Durbar Square is an ancient royal residential area and home to the Kumari (Living Goddess). It was once the royal palace complex for the Malla and Shah Kings of Nepal. The square is surrounded by historic palaces, courtyards, and temples, blending Hindu and Buddhist architectural styles. The Hanuman Dhoka Palace, known for its intricate carved wooden windows and doors, stands as a remarkable example of the craftsmanship of the Malla kings. The Kumari Ghar, where the Living Goddess resides, adds a mystical touch, and visitors may even catch a glimpse of her during certain times.
 
Next, we will visit Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. According to legend, around 2,000 years ago, when the Kathmandu Valley was a lake, a single lotus flower bloomed at its center. Saint Manjushree, the Bodhisattva, drained the lake with a single stroke of his sword, and the lotus settled atop a hill, transforming into a stupa. This ancient stupa is one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in Nepal.
 
Finally, we’ll visit Patan Durbar Square, located in the heart of Lalitpur. This square is a prime example of traditional Newari architecture and reflects the cultural and historical richness of the Kathmandu Valley. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Patan Durbar Square is renowned for its detailed wooden carvings, stone sculptures, and grand courtyards. The square features the ancient royal palace, now housing the Patan Museum, known for its impressive collection of bronze statues and sacred artifacts. Key landmarks in the square include the Krishna Mandir, famous for its beautiful stone carvings of Hindu epics, and the Hiranya Varna Mahavihar, or Golden Temple, a revered Buddhist monastery.

Overnight at Hotel [B]

Early in the morning, after breakfast, you will be transferred from the hotel to the domestic airport. It's a short drive to the airport where you'll board a small twin-otter or a similar aircraft for a scenic panoramic flight to Lukla. Upon arrival, you will begin your trek to Phakding, which will take about 3-4 hours. The trail is mostly pleasant, with a few steep climbs as you cross Tarhe Khola, offering a spectacular view of Kusum-Kangru (6,369m). Afterward, a short climb brings you to Ghat village, and after another 1½ hours of trekking, you’ll reach Phakding village for an overnight stop by the Dudh-Kosi River.


Overnight at Simple Lodge [B]

Today, we will trek for approximately 6-7 hours. From Phakding, after crossing the suspension bridge over the Dudh-Kosi River, the trail is enjoyable with a few brief uphill climbs followed by gentle descents. You will cross the river again and get magnificent views of Thamserku (6,608m). Continuing on, you'll pass the village of Benkar and cross another long suspension bridge over the Bhote-Koshi River. The trail is busy with trekkers, Ghopkyo, and porters as you make your way towards the small village of Monjo. Here, you can see an interesting water mill grinding roasted corn and barley for Tsampa, a traditional food staple of the Sherpas, Tibetans, and other mountain people.
 
Monjo lies beneath the towering Thamserku peak and near the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park. A short walk from Monjo will bring you to the park’s entrance, where your trekking permit and parking ticket will be checked, recording the details of all trekkers entering and exiting, along with their local trekking staff.
 
From here, you’ll descend briefly to Jorsalle village, the last settlement before Namche Bazaar and the only place to shop before reaching the famous market. The trek continues along the river until you reach the last bridge over the Imjatse River. After crossing, the trail winds uphill to Namche Bazaar, offering stunning views of Kwangde Peak and its neighboring peaks to the east, with Kusum Kangru behind you. Along the way, you'll catch glimpses of Mt. Everest, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Lhotse, and a closer view of Taweche Peak. As you approach Thop Danda, a resting stone wall for trekkers and porters offers a break before the final 1-2 hour walk to the renowned Namche Bazaar, nestled in a U-shaped amphitheater with its vibrant houses.

Overnight at Simple Lodge [B]

Suggested activities for today include a short uphill walk to the Sagarmatha National Park headquarters, which offers a fantastic vantage point above Namche Bazaar with breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks and the valleys below. You can also visit the fascinating museum located here, which provides valuable insights into the history, geography, culture, and mountaineering heritage of the Himalayas. The museum also showcases information about the region's unique flora and fauna. Afterward, you can relax and enjoy a leisurely afternoon in Namche Bazaar.

Overnight at Simple Lodge [B/L/D]

Approx walking time: 5hrs. 


The trail today winds along a scenic path offering breathtaking views of Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and a close-up perspective of Thamserku. You will reach Sagnasa, a bustling area with a good chance of spotting the vibrant Danphe pheasant (Impeyan Pheasant), Nepal's national bird, as well as the elusive musk deer. You might also see a herd of Himalayan Thar (mountain goats) in this area.
From Sagnasa, the trail descends to the Imjatse River at Phungitenga (3,250m), a small settlement with a couple of teahouses and a small Royal Nepalese Army barracks, nestled among alpine woods of silver fir, blue pines, rhododendrons, magnolia, and birch trees. At Phungitenga, you’ll find an interesting water-powered prayer wheel, turned by nearby streams. The walk from here becomes a bit challenging for about an hour as you navigate a winding trail through shaded woods, leading to a small religious monument decorated with prayer stones covered in rhododendron leaves and junipers.
From this monument, the trail climbs uphill for another hour, offering views of Thamserku and Kangtenga, which from this angle resembles an icy Sphinx or a large cat. Once you reach Tengboche, you'll encounter a striking Buddhist gate signaling the end of your day’s walk. Tengboche is one of the most stunning locations in the Himalayas, where you'll first see a large Ghompa (monastery) followed by a spacious field dotted with campsites and teahouses. All of this is set beneath the awe-inspiring Ama Dablam, with Everest towering above and the Nuptse wall to the north, alongside Mt. Lhotse and Lhotse Shar to the northeast, surrounded by numerous other majestic peaks.


Overnight at Simple Lodge [B]

Trekking time: 5-6hrs. 


The trail descends through a forest of birch, fir, juniper, and rhododendron, emerging at the beautiful spot of Deboche (3,650m), where you'll enjoy stunning views of Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Everest, Nuptse, and Lhotse. From Deboche, you’ll pass a long prayer mani wall, following a gentle path that leads to a small bridge over the narrow gorge of the Imja-Tse River. The trail continues to gradually ascend, taking you to a large mani wall gate. Just beyond this point, the route splits into two: the upper path leads to the upper Pangboche village, home to the old monastery, while the lower path is the main trail to Dingboche, Pheriche, and beyond. It’s recommended to take the upper path for the incredible views and to visit the upper Pangboche village (3,900m), known for its monastery, which once housed a Yeti scalp and a hand believed to be from a Yeti—these were stolen in the early ‘90s and have never been recovered.
After visiting the monastery, there is a gradual downhill walk that brings you back to the main trail. From here, Kantenga Peak appears differently from its northern face. After a pleasant break, your journey continues eastward. After about an hour, just before a small wooden bridge, the trail splits again: the northern route leads to Pheriche, while the eastern path passes beneath the towering north face of Ama Dablam. The trail climbs slowly, winding above the Imjatse River until you reach a large mani Stupa.
From here onward, the walk is fairly moderate as you enter the Imjatse Valley, with incredible views of Ama Dablam, Nuptse, Lhotse, and the eastern snow-capped mountains, including Island Peak (Imjatse, 6,189m), a popular trekking peak in Nepal. Dingboche is a picturesque village with fields surrounded by stone walls that protect crops like barley, buckwheat, and potatoes from cold winds and grazing animals.


Overnight at Simple Lodge [B]

Today is an important acclimatization day, allowing your body to adjust to the altitude. The day will begin with a visit to the monastery in Dingboche, famously known for its Yeti scalp and hand, before heading out to explore the Imja Khola. As you trek through this beautiful valley leading up to Island Peak, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the north face of Ama Dablam and the Lhotse-Nuptse ridge.
The day’s walk will be relatively short, providing a great opportunity to relax in the afternoon. You can either take some time to do laundry, rest, or simply enjoy the sunshine and the surrounding stunning landscapes.


Overnight at Simple Lodge [B]

Approx trekking time: 06 hrs.

Our onward journey leads north, and the path heads up for about 40-50mins until you come to a mani-prayer stupa. The trail is gentle as it descends, offering views of Pheriche village below. Today's walk offers views of Mt.Tawache, Ama Dablam, and the north-Pokalde (5,741m), Kongma-Tse (5,820m), and the great wall of Nuptse. After a walk of 1 ½ to 2 hours, the trail from Pheriche joins near Dugla (4595m) before a small wooden bridge over the river of Khumbu glacier. You’ll stop at Dugla for lunch before continuing for an hour up a steep hill to the summit, where you can enjoy views of Mt. Pumori and other peaks west of Everest. This makes for a great spot to take a short break. Afterward, it's another 1.5 to 2 hours of trekking to Lobuche, which is tucked away and sheltered from the wind.


Overnight at Simple Lodge [B]

After an early breakfast, you’ll begin your trek to the final destination at the foot of Everest Base Camp. The path takes you up the valley along a rocky moraine trail, offering views of the icy glacial pond and the icebergs of the Khumbu Glacier below. As you navigate the last of the rocky moraine dunes, a short downhill walk leads you to Gorakshep, located on a flat expanse beneath Kalapatthar (5,545m) and Mt. Pumori (7,145m). Gorakshep is the site of the original Everest Base Camp, and here you’ll feel the thrill of being close to the towering Everest.


Overnight at Simple Lodge [B]

After a brief refreshment break, you’ll continue your walk towards Kalapatthar from Gorakshep, which will take about 1.5 to 2.5 hours. The path is gradual at first, but after about an hour of walking, you’ll reach a rocky spot. From here, a final uphill climb of about half an hour brings you to the top of Kalapatthar (5,288m).
The views from Kalapatthar are beyond imagination—Everest appears almost within reach, nestled between the summit of Mt. Nuptse and Lho-La, with Lhotse towering in the background. The panoramic vista from this vantage point is truly breathtaking, making the challenging climb feel worthwhile. Surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks, it’s an incredible moment to experience, especially on a clear, sunny day.
After soaking in the magnificent views, you’ll begin your descent back to Gorakshep, and then continue to Pheriche for the night, where you can rest after this unforgettable day.


Overnight at Simple Lodge [B]

Today, we’ll make our way back from Pheriche to Khumjung, which lies at an altitude of 3,867m (12,687 ft). The trek will take about 6 hours, offering beautiful views along the way. Once you arrive in Khumjung, you’ll be transferred to the lodge where you can relax and unwind after the day’s walk.


Overnight at Simple Lodge [B]

Today, we’ll take an easy high trail before descending to Namche. From there, we’ll retrace our steps back to Phakding, which will take about 6 hours. The walk is relatively relaxed, and you'll have the chance to enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way as you make your way back to Phakding.


Overnight at Simple Lodge [B]

Today we trek along the Dudh Kosi River through Jorsale and Chourikharka On the trail there are up and downs and flats as we ascend to Lukla, which will take about 3-4 hrs.


Overnight at Simple Lodge [B]

Today you fly back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival at Kathmandu check in to the hotel and rest.


Overnight at Hotel [B]

After breakfast, we’ll head out for a day of sightseeing in Kathmandu. Today, you will visit Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square.
Pashupatinath, located along the sacred Bagmati River in Kathmandu, is one of the most revered Hindu temples, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Amid the bustling atmosphere, you can witness cremation rituals along the riverbank, offering a profound insight into Nepalese customs and spiritual beliefs.


Next, we’ll visit Boudhanath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its impressive Tibetan Buddhist stupa. Its massive dome, adorned with prayer flags and intricate carvings, radiates a sense of tranquility. As you walk around the stupa with pilgrims, you’ll feel a deep sense of reverence, and the nearby monasteries provide a deeper understanding of Buddhist philosophy and practice.


Our final stop is Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a historic plaza in the heart of Bhaktapur. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a stunning example of Newari architecture, with courtyards, temples, and palaces dating back to the medieval period. The 55-Window Palace, once the royal seat of the Malla kings, stands as a testament to Nepalese craftsmanship with its intricate wooden carvings. Other notable sites include the Vatsala Temple, with its impressive stone facade and barking dog bell, and the towering Nyatapola Temple, which symbolizes strength and protection.


These sites offer a captivating journey through Nepal’s cultural and spiritual heritage, giving you a glimpse into the rich history of the region.


Overnight at Hotel [B]

It’s time for your final departure from Kathmandu. After having breakfast and completing the checkout procedure, we will take you to the TIA around 3 hours before your flight time. Farewell with the hope of seeing you again in Nepal for your next vacation.

Tour Includes

  • Meet at the airport with our representative and transfer to the hotel as booked.
  • 04 night’s accommodation at Hotel – Kathmandu Single Room on BB plan.
  • 12-night/13-day stay in simple lodges during the EBC trek.
  • Trek is accompanied by a local English-speaking sirdar and porter for the solo traveler Aparna Levine
  • All surface transfers as per the itinerary by private a/c vehicle equipped with bottled water & wet tissues.
  • In Kathmandu Sightseeing, English-speaking guide included. 
  • Everest Conservation fees, VDC Tax, and TIMS card.

 


Tour Excludes

  • Nepalese Visa Fee.
  • Domestic and International airfare and taxes. Quoted Separately.
  • Meals that are not mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Refreshments, tips, bottled drinks, and bar bills.
  • Insurance and rescue of any form.
  • Cost arising out of flight cancellation/road blockades/landslides and reasons beyond our control.
  • Expenses of a personal nature and any other expenses not mentioned in the above cost.
  • Gratuities to trek staff, trek leader, city guide, and driver.
  • Excess baggage charges
  • Personal insurance policy - suggested comprehensive travel insurance covering tour and flight cancellations, loss of valuables, thefts, illness, accidents, and hospitalization.
  • Supplement food supply during the trek. Freshly ground coffee & Darjeeling Tea were carried.

 

The best time for the Everest Base Camp trek is pre-monsoon (March to May) and post-monsoon (September to November). During these months, the weather is clear, and the temperature is more favorable for trekking.

The EBC trek is considered moderate to challenging. The trek involves long days of walking, and the altitude can cause discomfort due to the high elevations. Proper acclimatization is essential to avoid altitude sickness.

You should be in good physical condition, as the trek involves walking for several hours each day, often on steep terrain. Regular cardio exercises like hiking, running, or cycling will help you prepare for the trek.

The highest point of the trek is Kala Patthar at 5,545 meters (18,192 feet), with the Everest Base Camp itself located at 5,364 meters (17,598 feet).

The trek lasts around 12 to 14 days, depending on acclimatization and the pace of the group. The total trekking time is usually around 6–8 hours per day.

While prior trekking experience is helpful, novice trekkers can also attempt the trek with sufficient preparation and stamina. However, you should be prepared for cold weather, long days of walking, and high-altitude trekking.

Essential items include:
  • Warm clothing (layering system)
  • Good trekking boots
  • Sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat
  • Water bottle with purification system
  • First aid kit and personal medications
Detailed packing lists will be provided before the trek.

There are basic medical facilities in Namche Bazaar and other major towns along the way. However, for serious conditions, evacuation may be required, and Helicopter rescue services are available for emergencies.

Most of the trek is in remote areas, but some lodges provide Wi-Fi (for a fee) in higher villages like Namche Bazaar. You may also use local SIM cards for mobile connectivity in major settlements.
 

The itinerary is designed with enough acclimatization days (like in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche) to help reduce the risk of altitude sickness. It’s important to drink plenty of water, avoid overexertion, and inform the guide if you experience symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, or nausea.

Accommodation is typically in simple lodges/tea houses along the route. They provide basic amenities like beds, blankets, and shared bathrooms. Hot water, electricity, and Wi-Fi may be available in higher settlements, though they may incur extra charges.

Yes, the lodges along the trekking route provide local food like dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momo (dumplings), noodles, and pancakes. Western food options like pizza, pasta, and French fries are also available in some areas, though they may be limited at higher elevations.

While it’s not mandatory, hiring a guide and porter is highly recommended for safety, navigation, and carrying your luggage. The guide can help with local knowledge, and the porter can carry up to 15 kg of your gear, allowing you to trek comfortably.

Yes, there is a dedicated rest day at Namche Bazaar and Dingboche for acclimatization. These are important for your body to adjust to the altitude and ensure a safe journey to higher elevations.

If the trek is interrupted due to bad weather or illness, alternative arrangements such as heli-rescue or return flights from Lukla to Kathmandu will be made as needed. You will also be offered support and assistance in the event of illness or injury.

Consult your doctor for recommended vaccinations. Generally, vaccinations for hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus, and malaria prevention (for lower altitudes) are suggested. Also, bring any personal medication you may need.

Yes, you can extend your trip in Nepal by exploring Kathmandu, the Pokhara valley, or even taking part in other trekking adventures. Speak with your tour operator for assistance in customizing your itinerary.

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