Planning to trek to Everest Base Camp and still don’t know where to start? So, this Everest Base Camp Trek Guide and Information will help you not only plan your trek in the Everest region but also know about the area you will be trekking in and what to expect on the trek.
Trekking to Everest Base Camp is a bucket list adventure for many people. Many manage to complete their bucket list adventure safely and responsibly while many may not know from where to start. To help you plan and navigate your Everest Base Camp journey with ease, we have prepared this complete guide to Everest Base Camp Trek that will cover all the important aspects of trekking in the Everest region.
Below we have included the most important aspects of the Everest Base Camp trek that we believe will definitely help you achieve your goal. However, there are many aspects that we have not covered and it all depends on personal preferences as to which route you like and which route you don’t like.
Knowing the region you are going to Everest Base Camp tread
- Introduction:
Everest Base Camp – A trip to the base camp of the world’s highest mountain. Nepal’s most popular Everest Base Camp trek offers experiences unlike any other Himalayan trek across the entire 2,400 km stretch of the Himalayas. Close-up views of the highest mountains, panoramic views throughout the trek, insights into Sherpa cultures, old monasteries, etc. are what you will encounter on this trek. Geographically located in the northeastern part of Nepal, this region alone welcomes thousands of trekkers/climbers every season. A standard Everest Base Camp trek is 130km long from Lukla to Everest Base Camp and back.
- Trek Grade:
Physically challenging due to the high altitude above the Everest base camp (5000m), involves about 6-8 hours of trekking daily. No previous trekking experience is required but you should be moderately fit and adaptable to walking and high altitude conditions. The maximum altitude in this trek is Kalapathar (5,545 m) and (5,364 m) Everest Base Camp, while the maximum altitude (5,140 m) is at Gorkshep. Your journey will start from Lukla (2,800m) and reach the (5000m) in eight days, including two rest and acclimatization days at Namche and Dingboche.
- Start and End Place:
The start and end point of the Everest base camp trek is Lukla which is at an altitude of (2,800m). A 35-minute flight in a small plane connects Kathmandu and Lukla. There is currently only one international airport in Nepal which is the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Arrive at Kathmandu airport and fly to Lukla to begin your trek.
- The Perfect Time to Come:
Generally, the best time to visit the Everest region is spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). The weather is more stable during these times of the year. Spring offers an opportunity to interact with the climbers who are climbing Mt. Everest and you can also visit the Tent City at Mt. Base Camp. Post-monsoon autumn is the busiest time of the year. Don’t take monsoon season (June to August) as it will be affected due to poor visibility. So read more about the best time to visit Nepal for trekking.
- Climate of Everest Region:
As you climb higher each day the temperature will drop significantly. Nights are cold (-10°C to 5°C) and days are sunny and warm (10°C to 20°C). Mornings are usually clear, clouds form in the afternoon and disappear at night.
Now that you have a general idea of the trek, it all comes down to your trek plan. Below we have listed some important points that you should consider while planning your trip.
- Choose Independently or Guided:
First thing, plan whether you wish to trek independently or guided. It is much safer and easier to trek with a guide if you are alone and are not comfortable doing an unassisted trek. Going through organized trekking will have everything sorted out for you before your arrival. It is completely safe for you to trek if you want to trek independently. Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the most popular/busiest trekking trails in the world. You will meet many people on the road and in teahouses. If you can’t afford it but still need someone to help you, you can always request a guide so it’s best to book a guide you will be before exploring Kathmandu.
- Find a Reputable Company:
If you decide to go through an agency, find a reputable one you can trust. The internet can be a valuable tool for evaluating them, checking Reviews and experiences. If any of your acquaintances have traveled to Everest Base Camp before then consider a recommendation first as they will have prior knowledge and will be able to give you tips. Make sure you choose a reliable travel agency with a lot of credibility. Inquire thoroughly about the route, the experiences of the guide, the teahouses you stay at and more.
- All Inclusive or GAP Service:
Always check if the price you are offered is all-inclusive due to the rapid increase in the number of trekkers in the Everest region. Many are offering treks to Everest base camp for around US$1000 without meals on the trek. It is always better to find an all-inclusive trip as it will be more cost-effective for you and you will not need to bring extra cash with you. Make sure that food, accommodation, staff wages, flight, permits are all included. This is important.
- Travel with Friends / Private or Group:
Traveling is always fun when it’s with the people you love the most. If you are traveling with friends/family it is better to do it on a private tour rather than joining fixed departure tour. Traveling in a private group gives you and your friends/family members more leverage in decision-making. If you travel with people from all over the world on certain departures, not everyone will agree. If you are a solo traveler then joining a fixed departure tour will be just as fun as traveling with friends.
- Route variations:
There are many treks in the Everest region, from trekking to the base camp, doing high passes or climbing the 6000m or 8000m peaks. For an Everest Base Camp trek, the ultimate goal is the same for everyone – reaching the Everest Base Camp but the ways to reach the goal may be different. The itinerary varies according to the number of days available with a minimum of 11 nights 12 days for a standard trek duration of 12 nights 13 days. If you are in a hurry or have limited time then we advise you not to trek as it shortens the itinerary and ultimately leads to altitude sickness. Always have 2 rest and acclimatization days at Namche and Dingboche before going up.
- Include Contingencies Day:
Always keep a day for contingency after your trek. Kathmandu and Lukla weather, Flights, Illness, etc. can all lead to jeopardizing the itinerary and having a contingency day after the trek will allow you time to cope up with that. If all goes well then you can use that day to explore the UNESCO World Heritages sites of Kathmandu.
- Places To Be Covered On The Trek:
Make sure the places you want to visit are included in the itinerary. If not, you can always request to modify the itinerary. This is your right and if possible, we will be happy to Covered your area of interest.
- Book Your International Flight:
We advise you to book your flight tickets at least 3-4 months before your travel date. Nepal has only one international airport with sufficient number of flights. During the peak season, flights are available and tickets will usually be available only at higher fares. Booking flights early will avoid the possibility of unavailability and high fares and you will get to travel on your preferred dates.
- Visa And Passport:
Please ensure you have a valid passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining. Visas for Nepal can be obtained on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu or at diplomatic consulates or missions abroad.
- Get The Right Insurance To Cover Emergencies:
It is mandatory and highly recommended that all our clients have travel insurance covering emergency evacuation and medical expenses. Please you will takes sure your insurance covered the level of activity you are doing. More details: Click here and see about Travel Insurance.
- Buy/Rent Suitable Trekking Gears (try before actual trip):
If you don’t get yourself the right trekking gear your entire trip can end badly. You don’t have to spend a lot of money or get everything new for the trek but you do need to make sure your gear is adequate and of good quality. Before starting the trek, make sure that your gear (shoes, jacket, socks, sunglasses, water bottle, etc.) is in good condition and will not break during the trek. You also need to make sure your clothing is appropriate and warm enough as it will be cold on the mountain. If you have trouble finding trekking gear in your area, you can also get it in Kathmandu after your arrival.
- Consult Your Doctor Before Going If You have Any Past Medical Conditions:
If you have a pre-existing medical condition or any ongoing treatment, consult your doctor before traveling. Tell him in detail about the trip you are taking.
- Bring The Medicines You Need:
On a trek, we carry a comprehensive medical kit. You are encouraged to bring your medications too but please tell your leader about the medication you are taking and use the medications only if you are confident. Avoid sleeping tablets in higher point an altitudes.
- Training For Trekking:
Now about the trek is planned, it’s time to train yourself for the trek. Read more about how to train for the Everest Base Camp Trek.
In Kathmandu:
Kathmandu is the capital city of Himalayan country, Nepal and is Nepal’s only international airport. Upon your arrival at the airport in Kathmandu, you will be welcomed and transferred to your hotel. There will be a trip briefing and the rest of the time you will be free to explore and do any last-minute shopping.
- Get Brief:
After your arrival in Kathmandu, you will be briefed about the trek and all important aspects of Kathmandu. And equipment check will also be done at the same time. If your flight arrives late and you happen to miss the briefing, your leader will find a time to make it for you. - Last Minute Shopping in Kathmandu:
Make sure you have everything you need for the trek and if you miss or forget something, Kathmandu is the last place you can get it. But at twice the cost of Kathmandu. - Change money in Kathmandu:
While trekking, you will need local currency for your expenses and exchanging here in Kathmandu will get you a good conversion rate. - Carry a map:
Carry a trekking map so that you can visualize the places you are visiting. Maps will help you identify terrain, mountains and places. - Permission:
Make sure your permissions are sorted. You need two permits to trek to Everest Base Camp and both permits can be obtained in Lukla. If you are traveling guided through an agency your permits will be sorted before your arrival
On The Trek:
After all the planning and preparation, the journey to the base camp now officially begins as you board the STOL plane to Lukla. Your trek starts from the day you go to Lukla.
- Always follow the leader’s advice:
Always follow your guide’s advice on the trip as he knows best. Each evening before or after dinner, your leader will tell you about the day and provide information about tomorrow’s journey. You should tell your leader if you have any health problems. On the trek next to the leader, a group of staff (assistant guides and porters) will assist you. - When walking, find your pace and follow it:
Remember slow and steady wins the race. The most important thing when walking is to find your pace and keep moving. The on and off pace of walking tires you out easily so instead of walking fast and taking frequent breaks, build a rhythm and stick to it. Every morning before you start your day’s walk, walk slowly for 15 to 20 minutes as this warms up your muscles and helps you a lot for the day’s walk. - Maintain Hydration:
Avoid dehydration at all costs as it leads to various ailments that affect your journey. Drink plenty of water and carry a hydrating supplement/ORS will be beneficial. Drink at least 3 liters of water per day or hydrate yourself until your urine is clear and odorless. - Proper layers of clothing:
Check the weather forecast for the day and dress accordingly. Walking all day raises the body temperature and there is no need to wear a thick jacket. Proper layering of clothing reduces excessive sweating, protects against cold and wind. Need to carry a fleece/wind topper in your backpack. - Bring a buff, hat and good sunglasses:
Yes, wearing a buff can make breathing difficult but it helps a lot in moisturizing the air you breathe. As the mountain air is cold and dry, wearing a buff can mainly prevent colds and sore throats. Cap and sunglasses are another important thing that you need for a trek and you know why it is necessary. - Get started early:
Morning weather is good for walking as it will be neither hot nor cold. An early morning start not only provides good temperature for walking but also enough time to walk in the day, clear views and avoid the rain. In the hilly areas, generally after the temperature increases from noon, clouds start to appear and there is a high chance of rain in the afternoon. - Maintain harmony for at least 2 days in Namche and Dingboche:
Remember the golden rule of compatibility – climb high sleep low. These compatibility days climb and go back overnight. This allows your body to adapt to the altitude more effectively and also exposes your body to higher altitudes to prepare for the days ahead. - Let Yak/Zopkyo go first especially to the bridge;
Yak and Jopkyo (a cross breed of yak and cow) are often encountered while trekking Everest Base camp. These species are used for transportation purposes. Always let them pass first and don’t stand near the rocks when giving way to them because the weight they carry can knock you over. And since the bridges are narrow, let them cross the bridges first.
Others (Important)
- Accommodation:
Trekking in (Everest region) does not require great logistics in accommodation as there are many lodges along the trail varying from luxurious to clean and friendly lodges. Most teahouses/lodges have basic rooms, usually a bed with pillows and blankets. The rooms are very simple but comfortable enough to sleep off fatigue. All of them have electric lights and all have a spacious dining room-lounge. Please note that hotels at high altitudes (Lobuche, Gorkshep, Jongla) are basic and a sense of adventure is required. It will be more cost-effective to stay in a lodge than on a camping trek. - Food (Meals):
Food is available at every teahouse/lodge you stay at. You will find a variety of food that you can try during the trek. Breakfast and dinner will be served at the tea houses/lodges where you stay and lunch will be served en route. - Drinking Water:
Drinking water is available at every stop and at the tea house/lodge where you stay. A bottle of water (1 liter) will cost from 1.5$ to 2.5$ depending on the altitude. Hot water can be purchased at a relatively cheap rate. We advise you to carry a water bottle and fill it with boiled water instead of buying bottled water to reduce plastic waste. You can also add water purification tablets to boiling water. We recommend bringing 2 bottles of 1 liter each to have enough water for the day’s hike. - Power/Charge:
Electricity/charging option is available on Everest trek and you have to pay to charge your electronic devices. Each room will have electricity but no charging port. You will need to charge your devices in the dining area and you will pay a fee of 1.5$ to 2.5$ per device. - Internet/WiFi:
Internet facility is available throughout the trek and you can buy internet data from the teahouses you stay at. - Hot Shower:
Hot showers are available at every teahouse on the trek at an additional cost of 2$ to 3$. Don’t forget to ventilate the shower area as there have been cases of people fainting while showering due to the toxic gases from the gas geysers. Taking shower higher above from Dingboche is not advisable. - Toilet (Wash Room):
Most teahouses in the Everest region, especially from Namche up, have shared toilets. The toilets are western style but there will be no toilet paper so always carry toilet paper and hand sanitizer in the bag. Rooms with attached bathrooms are available on Everest treks but only in limited space and limited hotels. - Altitude Sickness:
Altitude sickness to know about the altitude sickness in detail – ways to identity, prevention, and medication. More Details: Altitude Sickness
Additional Information:
- If your sleeping bag/blanket is not warm enough, ask the hotel for more blankets.
- Bring a power bank because charging costs will be per device
- Ask your guide or ticket counter for left side seats on (Kathmandu to Lukla) flights and right side seats on (Lukla to Kathmandu) flights for mountain views.
- To dry clothes/socks more efficiently at night, place them under a blanket or mattress.
- Fill your bottle with hot water before you go to bed and put it in your sleeping bag for extra warmth. You can also use the same water to brush your teeth and wash your face the next morning.
- Allow the first 15 to 20 minutes of walking to slow down as it warms up your body and prevents you from tiring easily.
- Do not eat meat in high places because meat is not fresh and only in the refrigerator. Consume bakery goods only if they are prepared on the same day.
Equipment Checklist for Everest Base Camp Trek:
Equipment is recommended for the Everest Base Camp trek. We encourage you to get all the equipment for the trip and please make sure you check and you will try each piece of equipment. Can also be bought or rented in Kathmandu. For more checklist check click here: Equipment Checklist
Everest Base Camp Trek Itinerary:
All itineraries follow the same approach, compatibility and route to base camp. However, the total number of itinerary durations, trekking days and helicopter fly-out option varies rather than walking the same route.
We hope this Everest Base Camp Trek Guide and information will help you plan your trek.
