EVEREST BASE CAMP TREK
Trek to Everest Base Camp is quite simply the classic trek in Nepal. High in the priority list of trekkers, the Everest Base Camp is one of the most visited regions in the Himalaya. The two week trek starts and finishes at Lukla, an airstrip to the south of the region also known as the ‘Gateway to Everest’. Most trekkers fly to Lukla, to begin the trek.
Starting from Lukla, a gentle two-day trek up the Dudh Koshi valley leads to the famous Namche Bazaar. The route has an abundance of tea houses. Phakding and Monjo are the popular stopovers on the first day and just beyond Monjo is the entrance to the Sagarmatha National Park at Jorsale check point where permits are checked. The trail that followed the Dudh Koshi River starts going uphill from the suspension bridge just a few minutes from Jorsale and Namche Bazaar is reached after a 3 hour hike.
It is good to halt here for a few days to acclimatize by walking in the surroundings of Namche as it can’t be done in a hurry. A visit to Syangboche or some Sherpa villages such as Thame, Khumjung and Khunde just a few hours walk from Namche are good options for a hike to while away your time.
Leaving Namche Bazaar, the trail follows the valley of Imja Khola with spectacular views of Thamserku, Kangtega and Ama Dablam mountains, while dominating the skyline ahead are the giants, Lhotse and Everest. The most common night halt after Namche is at the top of a steep climb from the Imja Khola at Tengboche. The Tengboche Monastery is one of the most famous monasteries, probably because of its unrivalled backdrop, Mt. Ama Dablam.
Following the Imja Khola from Tengboche, the trail ascends through Pangboche until Pheriche or Dingboche is reached, where the day’s trek ends. Another day of acclimatization follows with a fascinating side trip to Chhukung which is about a 3 hour walk from Dingboche.
From Dingboche or Pheriche a 6 hour walk leads to Lobuche which sits on the lateral moraine of the Khumbu glacier. What follows is a roughly 3 hour hike from Lobuche to the last settlement on the trail known as Gorak Shep. The few tea houses at this place provide shelter for the night before one undertakes the final leg of the trek over the glacier to Everest Base Camp.
Above Gorak Shep is seen the popular view point known as Kala Patthar, from where many a trekker has captured the image of the world’s highest mountain and gazed up in awe. The trek along the glacier to base camp can take up to five hours. This is treacherous ground and one must walk through this area cautiously, as finding a route can be tricky and there’s always the risk of falling on the slippery ice. Being at Everest Base Camp is an out of this world experience.
SAGARMATHA NATIONAL PARK
Sagarmatha National Park is home to the highest peak in the world – Mt. Everest (8,848 m), Sagarmatha being the Nepali name for Everest. The area was designated a national park in 1976 and encompasses several other peaks all above 6,000 m. The park got recognition as a World Heritage Site in 1979.
With most of the park lying above 3,000 m, it is mostly rugged terrain made up of deep gorges, glaciers and massive rocks. The Park boasts of a wide variety of wildlife including more than 118 species of birds. While the forest is dominated by silver fir, birch, rhododendron and juniper trees, animals such as musk deer, the Himalayan tahr, the ghoral, the serow, the wolf, and the Himalayan black bear may be spotted by trekkers in this region.
Endangered species which are rarely seen include: snow leopard, red panda, and two kinds of dazzling pheasants – the crimson-horned and the Impeyan, Nepal’s national bird. Smaller animals like marmots, pikas and martens are also found in the park.
The region ranges in altitude from less than 2,000 m above sea level at Jiri to the high peaks of the Himalaya at over 8,000 m. Hence the park’s flora and fauna is diverse with dense forest of pine, oak and the flowering rhododendrons found up to 4,000 m above sea level. The latter are one reason to make a trip to Nepal in the spring when the hills between 2,000 m and 3,500 m are a riot of colors.
The Everest Base Camp Trekking (EBC Trek) is the most beautiful trail in the Everest Region and is indeed the most famous Himalayan Trek. Everest Base Camp Trek is famous for its spectacular mountain views and hospitality of its inhabitants, the Sherpa people. Mount Everest is also known as Sagarmatha in Nepalese language, which in English literally means “Mother Goddess of the World”.
The Everest Base Camp Trek begins with a short flight to Lukla from Kathmandu. Upon landing at the Lukla airport, which is one of the highest-located airports in the world, you can immediately feel the change in the environment. The Himalayan breeze coruscates down the peaks and brushes the hills with a refreshingly chilly patina. The trekking trail then branches off towards various ethnic Sherpa settlements and villages before finally concluding at the base camp of the world’s tallest Himalayan peak.
The trek strat from Lukla after the 30 min flight. On the way there are many tea houses in which you can stay and eat locally as well as Western food. The trail takes one through the green Dudhkosi Valley, which is rich in Flora and Fauna, Sherpa Villages, and Buddhist Monasteries. It leads one up to the legendary Sherpa village of Namche Bazaar where you spend two nights exploring and acclimating, an important factor for your safety and enjoy experience the Everest Base Camp trekking. Then you follow the trail to the villages of Tengboche, Pangboche, Dingboche, and Lobuche where Yaks can be seen grazing in the high meadows. Finally you reach the last human settlement, the village of Gorakshep, which is just two hours from Everest Base Camp. From here, you can see the Khumbu Ice Fall and interact with other mountaineers climbing the Everest. From Gorakshep your trail takes you to Kalapathar from where you have the best possible view of the Himalayan Range. This is your turn around point and you descend following the same trail with still more splendid, fascinating and breathtaking views that leaves you with a lifetime of wonderful memories.
Everest Base Camp trekking offers a unique experience with panoramic views of the world’s highest and most beautiful mountains. It is one of the most inspiring place in the world and trekking is possible all year round, but the best times to visit are March to May and September to December.
Highlights of the EBC trek!
You will visit the renowned Himalayan town of Namche Bazaar- also known as the Gateway to Everest. It was an ancient trading point between the Himalayan traders and low-land merchants. Views of Peaks like the Thamserku, the Kongdi RI, the Ama Dablam, Lhotse Himal, the Nuptse Peak, and the Kusum Kanguru and of course- Mount Everest among many others from the town are utterly mesmerizing.
Likewise, as you trek through the Dudh Koshi and Imja River valleys, you also come to the village of Tengboche, which harbors the famous Tengboche Monastery- one of the largest and oldest Buddhist monasteries in the region. As you near the base camp. Kalapatthar presents panoramic views of the entire Mount Everest massif in a spectacular fashion. Treks to the vantage point occur in the early hours of dawn as the point is known for its sunrise view amidst the ivory Himalayan peaks.
Is the Everest Base Camp Trek Difficult?
Everest Base Camp Trek is a moderate journey suitable for average people, so no previous trekking experienced is required. However, to get fit, we would recommend practicing regular cardio exercises in order to prepare for the trip. Exercises like running, jogging, walking or swimming all boost the stamina of the body, and can help you during the trip. Thus, for preparing for the trek, it would be our advice to do regular exercises.
We here at 8picktrek Team count ourselves as privileged that we get to witness the life-changing journey of so many travelers and be a part of their memories. With well-constructed itineraries, trained guides, and ample facilities we are sure of our capability to provide you everything you need in this incredible journey. Head up with us to explore the mesmerizing grandeur of the Himalayas for Everest Base Camp.
Trip Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu 1340m
Our representatives will be awaiting your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport from where you will be transferred directly to your hotel. You will be introduced to your guides who will brief you on the trek. We advise you to head down to the local bazaar for a taste of the bustling city of Kathmandu. Overnight stay at a hotel on bed and breakfast basis in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla 2840m/35 minutes and trek to Phakding 2610m/3-4 hours
Our adventure officially kicks off with a scenic flight to Lukla in the early morning. The Himalayan landscape illuminated by the rising sun before the morning fog rolls make for a pleasant flight. After landing at the most adventurous airstrip of the nation we begin our trek towards the village of Phakding. Overnight stay at lodge/guesthouse in Phakding.
Day 3: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar 3440m/5-6 hours
The peak of Thamserku (6,608m) glimmers in the sunlight ahead of us as we reach the village of Monjo. This denotes our entry to Sagarmatha National Park which is also the oldest national park of the nation. Surrounded by exquisite floras and faunas we continue our journey through the convergence of Bhotekoshi and Dudh Koshi Rivers to reach Namche Bazaar. Overnight stay at lodge/guesthouse in Namche Bazaar.
Day 4: Acclimatization Day
Namche is a perfect destination to acclimatize with its stunning views of Mt. Everest (8,848) and Lhotse (8,414m) on the horizon and eye-catching destinations all around. We begin with the village of Khumjung and Khunde. Located below the holy mountain of Khumbila (5765m) the village of Khumjung is famous for housing the skull of a yeti in the Yeti Skull Monastery. The hotel at highest altitude Everest hotel with stunning views of the Himalayan Region is next on our list. Overnight stay at lodge/guesthouse in Namche Bazaar.
Day 5: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche 3860m/4-5 hours
After letting our bodies properly acclimatize we head out to the village of Tengboche. Home to Tengboche monastery, the biggest monastery of the entire Khumbu Region, it is well known for the practice of Mani Rimdu Festival. Crossing Dudh Koshi River, we continue through pine forests filled with wildlife in the form of pheasant, musk deer, and others and arrive at Tengboche. Overnight stay at lodge/guesthouse in Tengboche.
Day 6: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche 4410m/4-5 hours
Having our fill of the spiritual and natural goodness from the Tengboche Monastery, we head towards the village of Dingboche. The trail squeezes past deep pine and oak forests filled with blooming rhododendron. Ama Dablam (6,856m) shoots towards the sky as we continue the journey through the slippery snowy trail to Dingboche. Overnight stay at lodge/guesthouse in Dingboche.
Day 7: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche 4910m/5-6 hours
The trail continues upward guided by the majestic peaks in the form of Cholatse (6,335m) and Taboche (6,367m). The trail winds through the stone cairns build in the memorial of the Sherpas who lost their lives while climbing Everest before shooting past the foot of Khumbu Glacier and eventually to Lobuche. Overnight stay at lodge/guesthouse in Lobuche.
Day 8: Trek from Lobuche to Gorakshep 5140m/3-4 hours
The journey continues towards Gorakshep which is also the last settlement before reaching Everest Base Camp. The trail climbs through the Khumbu Glacier before dipping down between hills and onto a ridge. We also cross the Lobuche pass (5110m) on the way to Gorakshep. The village of Gorakshep is a frozen lake bed with ample space for camping outside for those interested. Overnight stay at lodge/guesthouse in Gorakshep.
Day 9: Hike to Kala Patthar 5550m/2 hours and explore to Everest Base Camp 5364m/5 hours
Today, we head towards Kala Patthar viewpoint for views of the Himalayas at sunrise. The increasing altitude, combined with our ragged breaths and rocky steps can very well be the hardest journey of the entire trek. But the mesmerizing scenery from the top is worth the trouble. The sights of the Mt. Everest (8,848m) combined with countless other snow-capped Himalayas enveloped by the ethereal glow cast by the rising sun is not something you see daily. We head back to Gorakshep and continue our journey towards Khumbu Glacier eventually climbing towards Everest Base Camp. Finally, your foot on the foot of the world’s tallest mountain and the views of Mt Everest (8848m), Khumbu Glacier and icefalls welcome you to the base camp. Overnight stay at lodge/guesthouse in Gorakshep.
Day 10: Trek from Gorakshep to Pheriche 4240m/5-6 hours
Having arrived Gorakshep the earlier night we head back to Pheriche. The trail diverges from the village of Dingboche heading south from the village of Lobuche. Heading out through the Thokla Pass (4830m) we continue our journey through Thokla before descending to the valley of Pheriche. At 4240m stunning views of the mountains of the Everest Region crowd the horizon adding to a wonderful day of travel. Overnight stay at lodge/guesthouse in Pheriche.
Day 11: Trek from Pheriche to Phortse 3810m/ 5-6 hours
The journey to Phortse takes about five hours and the trail provides the truest examples of Nepali flat meaning through some ups and downs. The decreasing altitude helps us keeps a reasonable place as we continue our journey through rugged pastures. A leisurely trek surrounded by never-ending the Himalayas and the warming rays of the sun, today is the perfect day to relax our mountain weary bones. Overnight stay at lodge/guesthouse in Phortse.
Day 12: Trek from Phortse to Namche Bazaar 3440m/5-6 hours
After crossing the river, we head towards Namche Bazaar through an ascending path crossing through the hill. The trail continues upward for an hour or so before reaching the flat land on the summit. From there, an easy descend begins eventually reaching Namche Bazaar. The trail is packed with Mani stones and the widespread impact of Buddhism is evident through the culture and lifestyle of the locals. Overnight stay at lodge/guesthouse in Namche Bazaar.
Day 13: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla 2840m/6-7 hours
Our final day of Himalayan adventure we make our way back the town of Lukla. The final leg of the journey sees us passing through cool and shady forests of pine and oaks and eventually heading out of Sagarmatha National Park. The trail eventually breaks at Lukla our final Himalayan stop. Overnight stay at lodge/guesthouse in Lukla.
Day 14: Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu 1340m/35 minutes
An early morning flight from Lukla gives us the chance to bid goodbyes to the Himalayas and the stunning villages that have hosted us for the last fourteen days. Lifting off from the most thrill-inducing airstrips of the nation we head towards the hustling and bustling city of Kathmandu. Back at Kathmandu, we will head directly towards the hotel from where you are free to do as you wish. Overnight stay at a hotel on bed and breakfast basis in Kathmandu.
Day 15: Departure from Kathmandu
A company representative will drop you off at the airport as you head to next destination of yours. We wish you all the luck with your future endeavors.
Price Details
Cost Details
Our Trek Package Cost includes;
* Kathmandu Int’l Airport/Hotel/Airport pick up and transfer by private vehicle as per group size.
* 2 nights Accommodation in twin bed sharing basis with breakfast at standard hotel in Kathmandu.
* Round trip domestic flight ticket from Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu and airport tax.
* 3 Meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) with Tea & coffee during the trekking period.
* Best possible lodge to lodge accommodation during the trek.
* 1 experienced helpful and friendly guide, porters (1 porter for 2 peoples), their foods, accommodation, salary, equipment & insurance.
* All ground transportation by private vehicle.
* Sagarmatha National Park Permit.
* All necessary other permits.
* First Aid Medical Kit box.
* Office Service charge
* All Government Tax.
Our Trek Package Cost does not include;
* Any meals (Lunch and Dinner) in Kathmandu other than breakfast in hotel.
* Travel insurance.
* International air fare to and from Kathmandu, Nepal.
* Nepal Tourist Visa fees.
* Items and expenses of personal nature.
* Any kind of alcoholic drinks, cold drinks, snacks, laundry, phone call, Internet.
* Personal Trekking Equipment.
* Emergency Evacuation (Helicopter Rescue).
* Any costs which arise due to a change of the itinerary, because of landslides, domestic flight delays, political disturbance, and strikes etc.
* Any other costs whatsoever, that is not mentioned in the cost included.
* Horse renting and additional porters during the trek.
* Tips for guide, porters, driver…
