Taking the Everest Base Camp Trek by Road is one of the best decisions you’ll ever make to explore the Everest region, Mount Everest, and other Himalayas instead of taking a flight to Lukla. Since most people take flights to Lukla from Kathmandu and start their trekking from Lukla, but Nepal’s weather is unpredictable and the flight might get delayed, at this time, the Everest base camp trek by road can be the best alternative for you.
We provide you with an alternative to the Everest Base Camp Trek by road through Jeep or bus drive, allowing you to explore the beautiful Himalayas and Sagarmatha's UNESCO World Heritage Site. The trek begins at Thamdanda and ends at Thamdanda, where you can explore Sherpa culture, hospitality, and snowcapped mountains, including Mt. Everest.
The Everest base camp trek by road provides a more affordable alternative to the Lukla flight and allows for more experience of various landscapes, cultures, and people's livelihoods. The trek also provides a chance to acclimatize before reaching the base of the mighty peak.
The Everest base camp trek by road allows for a safe and scenic journey through beautiful villages and stunning views of Mount Everest and surrounding peaks. The diversified trail takes travelers to Tak Shindo, Paiya, Kharikhola, and Surke before Phakding and is more immune to altitude sickness than a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla.
Also worth reading: Last-Minute Booking for the Everest Base Camp Trek
Best Time To Go
Choosing the right time to go makes all the difference. Autumn (September-November) and Spring (March-May) are the best seasons for this trek.
Autumn (September - November): This is the most popular time. The skies are clear and give you the best views of Mount Everest. The weather is mild and pleasant. The trails are full of life and offer great photo chances. October is a favorite month because the weather is very stable.
Spring (March - May): The lower hills turn green and have flowers like rhododendron. The air is clear and the weather is warm. It’s a great time to see local festivals and cultural events.
Winter (December - February): It gets very cold. The days are crisp, and the nights are below freezing. The views are great, but the trek is much more challenging due to the cold and snow. It is not a good choice for most people.
Trek Details and Challenges
This trek is a demanding physical adventure. It is listed as moderate-to-strenuous. You need to be in good shape. The high altitude and steep paths make it a real test. Our plan includes rest days to help your body adapt. The slow climb by road gives you a significant advantage for acclimatization. A flight to Lukla starts at 2,860 meters, a fast jump. Starting at Thamdanda (~2,400m) with our road trip gives your body more time to adjust.
You will stay in local teahouses. They are basic but cozy and offer a place to rest and meet other trekkers.
Food on the Trek
We provide breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout the trek. You will enjoy a mix of local and world food.
Local Food: Try classic Nepali dishes like Dal Bhat (rice with lentil soup), momos (dumplings), and Sherpa Stew.
Other Choices: Teahouses offer simple pasta, pizza, and fried rice.
Stay Hydrated: Drink a lot of water and herbal teas. This is key to staying healthy at high altitudes. Try to avoid alcohol to prevent dehydration.
Vegetarian and vegan meals are available at most places.
What You Need to Know Before You Go
Good planning is key to a great trip. Here are the most important things to get ready.
Paperwork
Passport and Visa: Your passport must be valid for at least six months. You can get a Nepali visa when you arrive in Kathmandu.
Travel Insurance: This is a must. Your policy must cover high-altitude trekking, medical issues, and emergency rescues.
Permits: You must get two permits for this trek.
Sagarmatha National Park Permit: Get this at the park entry in Monjo. The cost is about NPR 3,000 for non-SAARC visitors and NPR 1,500 for SAARC visitors.
Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Trek Card: You get this card at the local entry points in Lukla or Monjo. It costs around NPR 2,000 per person.
The old TIMS card is no longer needed for this trek.
Gear and Clothes
The right gear makes your trip comfortable. You can buy or rent quality gear in Kathmandu for a fair price.
Layer your clothes. This is the best way to stay warm. Wear moisture-wicking materials like Merino wool next to your skin. Avoid cotton.
Outerwear: A waterproof jacket and pants.
Mid-layers: A warm fleece or down jacket.
Headwear: A sun hat, a warm hat, and sunglasses with UV protection.
Gloves: A pair of lightweight gloves and warm, waterproof gloves.
Footwear: Wear high-quality, broken-in trekking boots with ankle support. Bring a few wool socks to keep your feet dry and blister-free.
Other useful things: A good backpack, trekking poles, a headlamp, a water bottle, a small first-aid kit, and a sleeping bag liner for more warmth and cleanliness.
Hiring a Guide
As of the new rules from the Nepal Tourism Board, you cannot trek alone in Nepal. Hiring a licensed guide is now a must for all foreign trekkers. Our experienced guides know the area well and will make your trip safe and fun.
Cash in the Mountains
The Nepali Rupee (NPR) is the only money you can use on the trail. You will need to bring enough cash for your entire trip. There are no ATMs or banks on the trek. You will need money for things like water, hot showers, phone charging, and tips for your guide and porters.
