The Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek is one of the world’s most famous and iconic treks, and it is on nearly everyone’s bucket list. During this trek, you will be able to see the breathtaking views of the Khumbu region’s chain of mountains, which includes Mt. Makalu, Mt. Cho Oyo, Mt. Lhotse, and Mt. Lhotse Shar. Beautiful rice terraced fields, waterfalls, and Sagarmatha National Park (UNESCO world heritage site) are all found in the well-worn path. You may also come upon Syangboche Airport, where you will be treated to some spectacular vistas. This 14-day remote path route takes you to Kala Patthar’s stunning high point, from which you can see the panoramic views of the Himalayas.
A flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, Nepal’s capital, is the first phase of the journey. Trekkers begin their ascent from Lukla to Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa capital at an elevation of roughly 3400 meters. On your route through mountain valleys, you’ll pass through the lively settlement of Namche Bazaar and the famed Tengboche monastery. The EBC trek also provides views of the world’s deepest glacier.
Namche is the key acclimatization site, where trekkers can relax, take in the view, and prepare for the Everest Base Camp journey ahead. On the Everest Base Camp route, a typical day of hiking will last roughly six hours. A short trek to the top of Kala Pattar affords amazing views of the world’s tallest mountain before retracing our steps back to Lukla.
Trekking from Khumbu Valley to Everest Base Camp during the spring season is the most ideal (March-May) as the skies are visible and provide an amazing view throughout the journey. You will have drained about half of the oxygen in the air by the time you arrive at base camp. That is why you must train before commencing your trek. Because altitude sickness is so common in high elevation areas, it is prudent to take the necessary precautions in the event of any symptoms.
Best season for Everest Base Camp Trek
Pre-monsoon season, from March to May, is the optimum time to trek to Everest Base Camp where the weather is pleasant and sunny. Trekking in the post-monsoon season, which runs from September to December, is another popular option. During this season, the sky is clearer, and the views of the Himalayan splendor are more consistent. If you travel in October, you might be able to see the well-known Mani Rimdu festival.
Rain falls practically every day during the monsoon season, from June through August, making the trek up the EBC slippery and dangerous. This seasonal change has a significant impact on the trek’s route. The passes are closed during the winter season, from December to February, with heavy snow and snowstorms. Although the Everest Region’s scenic splendor and snow-capped mountains appear to be breathtaking, severe winter makes this path tough to access.
Accommodation and Meals during EBC Trek
On the EBC trek route, the grade of accommodation includes all the amenities, such as hot water, indoor restrooms, and electricity. In most rooms, there are two single beds with a thin mattress. You will be accommodated in a beautiful and clean basic trekking lodge on a twin-sharing basis for the climb. Internet access, charging stations, and hot water is available for an additional fee. The lodges get more rudimentary as you travel further into the mountains.
The Namche acclimatization site has several fantastic lodges where you can get all the refreshments and coffee you want. Most lodges have a diverse selection of options ranging from the most basic to the most complex. The food on the tour is diverse, with all the regional delicacies available. The cuisine offered in the Tea Houses is delicious and reasonably priced, especially considering the high altitude at which it is served.
Everest Base Camp Trek Difficulty
The trek’s difficulty is determined by height, topography, and weather conditions. A climb to Mount Everest Base Camp is physically demanding due to most of the climbing being done above 3,500 meters, but it is doable by anyone in good health. Trekkers must be physically capable of hiking for an average of six to seven hours each day through difficult terrain. It is highly recommended that you spend a few months doing upper body strengthening exercises, climbing fitness (such as trekking with a rucksack), and integrating breathing exercises. With the right gear and the right mindset, you will be able to make the climb to Everest Base Camp.
With shifting weather, temperatures at high elevations are expected to be exceptionally low. This necessitates physical fitness on the part of the trekkers. It’s a task even if you don’t have 20 kg of gear on your back.
Mountain sickness symptoms will develop if you continue walking at a rising altitude, thus it’s best to acclimate in the lower region. Altitude sickness can be avoided by taking a respiratory stimulant. Once you reach the upper viewpoints, your efforts will be rewarded by the region’s stunning scenery. Your fatigue fades, leaving you with a vivid memory. Trekking alone in the Everest region is also possible but it is not encouraged due to the potential of unforeseeable accidents at Everest base camp.
Everest Base Camp Trek Cost
The tour option, mode of transportation, and lodging all have an impact on the cost of an EBC Trek. The price will also be influenced by your budget and the number of people in your group.
You will obtain the aforementioned when you choose the EBC tour package:
- Airport transfer (Arrival/Departure)
- Briefing and cultural show the night before the trek
- Awe-inspiring flights to and from the mountains
- Teahouse accommodation for the duration of the trek
- Full course meals throughout the trek
- English speaking, skilled trekking guide
- Local porters for extra need help with the gear
- Insurance of all staff
- Local village tax
- Medical kit for emergencies
- Sagarmatha National Park entry fees and necessary trekking permits.
- Full pre-departure trip information
Before embarking on the journey, trekkers must also obtain the permits listed below.
- Entry permit for the Sagarmatha National Park
- Fee for the Khumbu Pasang Lamu Rural Municipality
- Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS)
To obtain the necessary permits, a government-registered local trekking agency will be required.
You can tailor your trip to your specific requirements. It is recommended that you purchase insurance to help you in the event of an evacuation or other unforeseen circumstances.
How Long Does The Everest Base Camp Trek Take?
On an average Everest Base Camp Trek takes around 11to 14 days. We have 2 days for acclimatization, one at Namche and another at Dingboche. But if you wish to shorten the trekking duration you can. Acclimatization is done so that the trekkers can get used to the high altitude conditions and adapt to the changing environment. But if one day of acclimatization is enough for you, then you can use another scheduled day of acclimatization for trekking itself.
Even if you are an experienced trekker and have a fit body, at least one day of acclimatization is mandatory. So we strongly suggest having at least one day of acclimatization planned in your trekking itinerary. However, if you wish to lengthen the trekking period by adding a few days more for acclimatization or just for spending some more time in places like Namche or Tyangboche then such adjustments can also be made.
What to pack for EBC Trek?
- Torch- and headlamp to travel in the dark
- Rucksack/Backpack
- Water filter
- Strong boots (Waterproof)
- Sunglasses, sunhat
- Dry Towel
- Camera and Portable Charger
- Mosquito repellent
- Shampoo and soap
- Thermal insulation Layer
- Sleeping Bag
- Hiking Poles: Assists in keeping the ascent going while traversing high terrain.
- Windproof mittens
- Water bottle that can be refilled
- Rain gear for Monsoon season
