Everest Base Camp Trek

ITINERARY

• DAY
  1

  Arrive Kathmandu Kathmandu 1,400 m / 4,593 ft

  Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA). Transfer to your hotel in Thamel. Meet your guide for a comprehensive trek briefing covering permits, gear, altitude sickness protocols, and the daily schedule. Use the afternoon to rest and adjust to the time zone. Visit a gear shop if you need last-minute equipment. Dinner at a local restaurant is recommended to begin building the guide-trekker relationship.

  Tip: Get a good night's sleep — you'll have an early-morning departure for Lukla. Confirm your Lukla flight the evening before; weather cancellations are common.

  
  

• DAY
  2

  Causal day sightseeing and trip preparation

• DAY
  3

  Lukla → Phakding Flight + trek 2,860 → 2,610 m ~9 km 3–4 hrs +120 / −370

  Distance ~9 km- Walking time 3–4 hrs: Elevation gain +120 m: Elevation loss −370 m

  
  

  Take an early 30–35 min flight from Kathmandu to Tenzing-Hillary Airport in Lukla (2,860 m) — one of the world's most dramatic runways, cut into a Himalayan hillside. After meeting porters and completing final packing, begin the trek. The trail descends gently through pine and fir forests, hugging the east bank of the roaring Dudh Koshi River. Cross several short suspension bridges before arriving at the small, pleasant settlement of Phakding. The comfortable walking time gives your body its first acclimatization impression.

  Tip: Lukla airport opens and closes with clouds — check the weather the night before. Fly early in the day; afternoon fogs are common. Keep your main pack with porters; carry only a daypack.

  
  

• DAY
  4

  Phakding → Namche Bazaar Ascent 2,610 → 3,440 m ~13 km 5–6 hrs +830 / −150

  Distance ~13 km Walking time 5–6 hrs Elevation gain +830 m Elevation loss −150 m

  
  

  The most demanding ascent of the lower valley. The trail crosses and re-crosses the Dudh Koshi on a series of high suspension bridges — the Hillary Bridge (the longest, at roughly 160 m) is the most memorable. You enter Sagarmatha National Park at Monjo and pay your TIMS and park permits here. After Jorsalle, the trail climbs a long, relentless spur for 600 m through pine and silver fir to emerge suddenly above Namche Bazaar — the 'gateway to the Khumbu' and the region's commercial and cultural hub. First views of Everest are possible from just above Namche if clouds permit.

  Tip: The climb into Namche is steep and unforgiving. Take it slow — many trekkers push too hard here and arrive already symptomatic. There is a first view of Everest from a gap in the ridge about 30 min below Namche; look for it.

  
  

• DAY
  5

  Acclimatization — Namche Bazaar Acclimatization 3,440 m (stay) ~7 km 4–5 hrs high point ~3,880

  Distance ~6–8 km (hike) Walking time 4–5 hrs (day hike) Elevation gain +500–600 m then back Elevation loss −500–600 m

  
  

  Do not rest entirely — the golden rule is climb high, sleep low. Take the classic acclimatization hike from Namche up the steep ridge northeast to the Everest View Hotel (3,880 m) for the most photographed Himalayan panorama: Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku all visible on a clear morning. Continue to Khumjung village (3,790 m) to see the Hillary school and the monastery that houses a supposed Yeti scalp. Return to Namche for the night. Afternoon: explore Namche's Saturday market (if it's Saturday), the Sherpa Culture Museum, and the well-stocked gear shops and bakeries.

  Tip: Drink 3–4 litres of water today. Mild headache in the afternoon is normal; a headache that won't respond to ibuprofen or paracetamol, or any dizziness, nausea, or loss of coordination, is a sign to descend immediately.

  
  

• DAY
  6

  Namche → Phortse Village Ascent 3,440 → 3,810 m ~11 km 5–6 hrs +600 /

  Distance ~11 km Walking time 5–6 hrs Elevation gain +600 m Elevation loss −230 m

  
  

  Leave the main EBC trail today and take the western branch toward the Gokyo Lakes route. The trail climbs steadily from Namche through rhododendron forests (spectacular in April bloom) and mixed birch forest, contouring the hillside above the Bhote Koshi valley. Musk deer are commonly spotted along this stretch. After crossing the ridge, descend slightly to the remote, exceptionally traditional Sherpa village of Phortse (3,810 m), perched dramatically on a bluff above the Dudh Koshi gorge with a commanding panorama of Thamserku (6,618 m) and Kantega (6,783 m). Phortse has produced more Everest summiteers per capita than any other village on earth.

  Tip: Phortse sees a fraction of the EBC trail's foot traffic. Teahouses are smaller, more personal, and often run by Sherpa climbing families. Ask your host about their family history — the stories are extraordinary.

  
  

• DAY
  7

  Phortse → Dingboche Ascent 3,810 → 4,410 m ~12 km 5–6 hrs +850 / −250

  Distance ~12 km Walking time 5–6 hrs Elevation gain +850 m Elevation loss −250 m

  This stage rejoins the main EBC artery via Pangboche. Descend from Phortse through juniper scrub to the Dudh Koshi and cross the river near Phortse Tenga. Climb steadily south to Pangboche (3,930 m) — worth a 15-minute detour to visit Lower Pangboche Monastery, the oldest in the Khumbu, believed to date from the 17th century and credited to the founder Lama Sanga Dorje. Above Pangboche the trail swings east up the wide Imja valley with increasingly grand views of the Lhotse-Nuptse wall. Arrive at Dingboche — an airy, windswept plateau at the junction of the Imja and Lobuche valleys, ringed by stone walls used for yak grazing.

  Tip: Wind picks up strongly at Dingboche from mid-morning. Mornings are generally calm and crystal clear. Book your teahouse for two nights when you arrive.

  
  

• DAY
  8

  Acclimatization — Dingboche Acclimatization 4,410 m (stay) ~8 km 4–5 hrs Nangka

  Distance ~8 km (day hike) Walking time 4–5 hrs Elevation gain +673 m then back Elevation loss −673 m

  
  

  Acclimatization hike to Nangkartshang Peak (5,083 m) — an essential altitude push before the higher camps. The trail climbs steeply northeast from Dingboche up a broad ridge for roughly 2.5 hours. At the summit you are rewarded with an unobstructed 360° panorama: Makalu (8,485 m) to the east, Ama Dablam's sweeping southeast ridge directly in front, Island Peak (Imja Tse, 6,189 m) to the northeast, and the Lhotse-Everest massif towering to the northwest. Return to Dingboche for the night. Afternoon: rest, rehydrate, journal, read.

  Tip: If Nangkartshang feels too ambitious, an alternative acclimatization hike goes to the Chhukhung Ri direction along the Imja valley floor to Chhukhung village (4,730 m) — flatter but still very effective.

  
  

• DAY
  9

  Dingboche → Lobuche Ascent 4,410 → 4,940 m ~10 km 4–5 hrs +600 /

  Distance ~10 km Walking time 4–5 hrs Elevation gain +600 m Elevation loss −70 m 

  
  

  Trek north up the wide glacial valley past the settlement of Dughla (4,620 m), where there is a good stop for tea. Just above Dughla, the trail climbs steeply to Thukla Pass (4,830 m), where a field of stone cairns and memorial chortens stands in memory of climbers who have died on the peaks of the Khumbu — among them Scott Fischer and others who perished in the 1996 Everest disaster. It is a deeply moving place. Beyond the pass, the trail levels along the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier, with Pumori (7,161 m) directly ahead and the jagged ridgeline of Nuptse filling the right horizon. Arrive at the small cluster of lodges at Lobuche.

  Tip: Thukla Pass is windy and cold even in October. Have a down layer accessible in your pack. The Lobuche teahouses are basic and nights here are very cold — good sleeping bag essential.

  
  

• DAY
  10

  Lobuche → EBC → Gorak Shep Ascent 4,940 → 5,364 → 5,164 m ~18 km 7–8 hrs +620 / −400

  Distance ~18 km total, Walking time 7–8 hrs, Elevation gain +620 m, Elevation loss −400 m

  
  

  The most memorable day of the trek. Leave Lobuche early (6:00–6:30 am). The trail follows the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier — the footing is rough and uneven, with large boulders. After 2 hours reach Gorak Shep (5,164 m), the highest permanently occupied settlement on the trek — deposit your bag and take only water, snacks, and warm layers. Continue 1.5–2 hours northwest along the glacier moraine to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m). In pre-monsoon season (April–May) the camp is a city of coloured tents, ropes, ladders, and the constant roar of the Khumbu Icefall above. In post-monsoon season (Oct–Nov) it is deserted but hauntingly beautiful. Spend time, take it in, then return to Gorak Shep to sleep.

  Tip: EBC is on unstable moraine — watch every step. The altitude here reduces oxygen to roughly half sea-level concentration. Take 10 steps, breathe, take 10 more. Do not rush. Return to Gorak Shep well before dark.

  Note: Gorak Shep is the hardest sleeping point on the trek. Many trekkers experience poor sleep, headaches, and nausea. This is mostly normal at 5,164 m. If symptoms are severe, descend immediately rather than sleeping at altitude.

  
  

• DAY
  11

  Gorak Shep → Kala Patthar → Pheriche Descent 5,164 → 5,545 → 4,288 m ~13 km 6–7 hrs +381 / −1,257

  Distance ~14 km Walking time 6–8 hrs Elevation gain +381 m Elevation loss −1600 m

  Begin before dawn (around 4:30–5:00 am) from Gorak Shep for the climb to Kala Patthar (5,545 m), the iconic viewpoint that offers the finest close-up panorama of Mount Everest, along with spectacular views of Nuptse, Lhotse, Pumori, and the surrounding Himalayan giants. Watching the first rays of sunlight illuminate Everest’s summit pyramid is one of the most unforgettable moments of the Everest region.
  

  After enjoying the sunrise and taking photographs, descend back to Gorak Shep for a well-earned hot breakfast. From here, begin the gradual descent through Lobuche and Thukla before continuing down the valley to Pheriche (4,371 m). The significant loss in altitude provides immediate relief from the thin air, and most trekkers notice increased energy levels and a more comfortable night's sleep.

  As you descend, the landscape changes from the barren high-altitude terrain around Everest Base Camp to the wider alpine meadows and yak pastures surrounding Pheriche. Arrive in the afternoon with time to relax and reflect on the achievements of reaching both Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar.

  Tip: The pre-dawn ascent to Kala Patthar is cold and often windy. Carry a headlamp, insulated gloves, warm hat, and multiple layers. Microspikes can be helpful if the trail is icy. Take the climb slowly, especially near the summit, where the trail becomes steeper and the altitude is at its highest.  

  
  

• DAY
  12

  Pheriche → Namche Bazaar Descent 4,288 → 3,440 m ~16 km 5–6 hrs +100 / −950

  Distance ~14 km Walking time 5–6 hrs Elevation gain +120 m Elevation loss −660 m

  After breakfast in Pheriche (4,240 m), begin a gradual descent through alpine meadows and yak pastures toward Pangboche, one of the oldest Sherpa settlements in the Khumbu. As the trail drops in elevation, the landscape transitions from the rugged high-altitude terrain of the upper valley to lush rhododendron and pine forests.

  Continue to Tengboche (3,867 m), home to the renowned Tengboche Monastery, the spiritual heart of the Everest region. Set on a spectacular ridge, the monastery is framed by some of the Himalaya's most iconic peaks, including Ama Dablam, Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Thamserku. If timing permits, you may attend the afternoon prayer ceremony (puja), offering a memorable glimpse into Sherpa Buddhist culture and traditions.

  From Tengboche, descend steeply through beautiful forest to Phunki Tenga before crossing the Dudh Koshi River. The trail then climbs gently through Sansa and continues toward Namche Bazaar, the vibrant trading hub of the Khumbu. Upon arrival, enjoy the comforts of civilization once again—a hot shower, fresh bakery treats, excellent coffee, and a well-earned celebratory meal after your journey to Everest Base Camp.

  Tip: Tengboche Monastery was destroyed by fire in 1989 and later rebuilt with support from the local community and international donors. Visitors are welcome inside the monastery, but shoes should be removed before entering, and respectful behavior is expected during prayer ceremonies

  
  

  
  

  
  

• DAY
  13

  Namche Bazaar → Lukla Descent 3,440 → 2,860 m ~22 km 6–7 hrs +150 / −

  Distance ~22 km Walking time 6–7 hrs Elevation gain +150 m Elevation loss −730 m

  
  

  The final walking day. Retrace the classic trail from Namche, descending rapidly through Jorsalle, Monjo, and Phakding, crossing and re-crossing the Dudh Koshi on its famous suspension bridges. At this altitude and after 10 days of adaptation, the walking feels almost effortless — a genuine joy compared to the uphill slogs of the first days. Arrive in Lukla by early afternoon. Celebrate the trek's completion with your guide and porters. Tonight is the traditional celebration dinner — tip your porter and guide generously, as this is their primary income.

  Tip: Pack your kit for the flight tonight — airlines weigh bags strictly at Lukla (usually 15 kg hold + 5 kg carry-on on Twin Otter). Enjoy Lukla's teahouses: they are warm, the Wi-Fi works, and the apple pie is famous.

  
  

• DAY
  14

  Flight Lukla → Kathmandu Flight 2,860 → 1,400 m ~140 km 35 min

  Distance ~140 km (air) Walking time 35 min, flight Elevation gain —Elevation loss−1,460 m

  
  

  Early morning flight back to Kathmandu. The views from the Twin Otter on a clear day — Everest, Cho Oyu, and the entire Khumbu massif — are a final spectacular reward. Transfer to your hotel in Thamel. After the rigours of altitude, Kathmandu feels almost overwhelmingly warm, oxygenated, and full of sensation. Use the afternoon for souvenir shopping in Thamel, a visit to Boudhanath Stupa or Swayambhunath temple, a massage, or simply a long, celebratory lunch.

  Tip: Build in at least one buffer day in Kathmandu before any onward flight — Lukla is notorious for weather delays that can strand trekkers for 1–3 days. Book flexible return flights if possible.

  
  

• DAY
  15

  Reserved and casual day in Kathmandu

  
  

• DAY
  16

  Transfer to airport for international flight

  Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your international departure. Allow ample time — TIA traffic is heavy and check-in queues can be long. If your flight is in the evening, use the morning for any remaining cultural visits: the Pashupatinath temple complex on the Bagmati River is the most sacred Hindu site in Nepal and is exceptional in the early morning.

  Tip: Keep one set of trekking clothes accessible in your hand luggage for the airport — checked bags with dirty gear can sometimes be delayed on international connections.

  
  

INCLUDES

• Ground transportation : All airport transfers and city-to-city transport throughout the trip are included and pre-arranged.
• 3 nights in Kathmandu : Comfortable hotel, twin-sharing basis with breakfast included each morning. Centrally located for easy sightseeing access
• Teahouse lodging on trek All nights in teahouses along the trail — from Lukla through Namche, Tengboche, Dingboche and beyond to Base Camp.
• All meals throughout the trek Breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day with hot beverages
• Domestic flights Round-trip Kathmandu–Lukla–Kathmandu.
• All permits — TIMS, Sagarmatha NP entry
• Experienced Sherpa guide A licensed, English-speaking Sherpa guide with deep knowledge of the route
• Assistance guide as required 4 trekkers = 1 assistance guide
• Dedicated porter One porter assigned to carry your main pack, so you trek comfortably with only a daypack
• Adventure Sherpa Tracks duffle bag A branded AST duffle bag provided for the trek
• 1-day guided Kathmandu sightseeing tour with entry fees Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Sites — Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), and Patan Durbar Square — with your guide. All entry fees covered.
• Refundable trekking gear Essential high-altitude gear (sleeping bags, down jackets, trekking poles) provided on loan for the trek duration. Fully refundable deposit system — return the gear at the end and get your deposit back.
• All government and local taxes

EXCLUDES

• International flight
• Nepal visa fees
• Rescue & travel insurance ,accident or health emergency and personal effects
• Major meals, Lunch and dinner during your stay in Kathmandu
• Personal expenses such as alcoholic beverage and drinks ,phone charge ,laundry and wifi
• Personal Trekking equipment
• Special Filming, Camera, and Drone permit fee.
• Tips & Gratuities to porters,guides
• Other items not listed in “Cost includes

MAPS

AVAILABLE DATES

GALLERY

REVIEWS

GEARS AND EQUIPMENT

The main emphasis while trekking is on keeping warm and dry while still being lightweight. You should bring a rucksack or backpack for the gear required during the day. Your pack should contain items such as warm clothes, a jacket, a camera, water bottles, a personal first aid kit, and snacks. The weight limit is 5kg. A porter will carry the rest of your personal equipment packed in a duffel or kit bag. The weight limit for your duffel bag is 15 kg however it is different in the case of peak climbing and expedition.

A Note on Packing 

For your international flights, we recommend that you pack all your equipment in your two duffle bags or suitcase. Do not simply pack your backpack (since the straps can be damaged by the baggage handling machines). It is important to lock these bags for their trip. Depending on the airport, you may be able to put your travel locks on after TSA has searched the bags. If not, Lock the bags with Zip Ties. If the TSA cuts off the zip-tie to search your bag, they will replace it. You will still need the travel locks to lock your bags in the hotel and during the trek. Generally, you will take one duffel on the trek , and leave one in the hotel in Kathmandu with your belongings for your time in the city. Your trek in duffel will only be accessible in the evenings (with items such as changes of clothing, sleeping bag), and your day pack will hold vitals such as water, layering, blister kit, and camera.

FOOTWEAR

• Hiking Boots with ankle support. Make sure they are comfortable and you have worn them in before arriving in Nepal.
• Camp Shoes or Tennis Shoes
• Thick, warm wool and day hiking  socks
• Camp Sandle
• Gaiters (Optional )
• Plastic bag to carry spare shoe

         CLOTHING

• Lightweight Trekking pants
• Synthetic T-shirts, long-sleeve shirts
• Synthetic hiking pants, Zip-off pants
• Trekking trousers
• T-shirts – Lightweight, quick-drying
• Long-sleeved shirt
• Fleece jacket with wind-Stopper (With wood)
• Down vest and/or jacket
• Rain jacket or poncho (Gore-tex or equivalent)
• Rain pants (Gore-tex or equivalent)
• Down jacket medium weight
• Fleece or wool pants
• Synthetic Underwear
• Women sports bras, synthetic(for women)
• Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell pants
• Long sleeve tops or shirts (not cotton).
• Microfleece.
• Mid to heavyweight fleece or synthetic/ Primaloft

     HEAD  & GLOVES

• Fleece gloves.
• Warms mittens and/or gloves.
• Wool or fleece hat.
• Sun hat
• Warm hat wool or synthetic that covers your ears
• Bandana or scarf (eg. Buff Headwear).
• Head torch. Bring extra batteries.
• Sunglasses with UV Protection

     ACCESSORIES

• Lightweight Sleeping bag
• Trekking poles
• Basic First Aid Kit
• Daypack (Ruck Sack):  Recommended size is around 30 litres. You need to have enough space to carry water
  bottles, camera, snacks, and extra clothing. The pack should have a good waist belt. It is also a good
  idea to bring a rain cover to keep the contents dry
• Fleece or silk liner for your sleeping bag
• Stuff sacks for keeping your gear dry and organized (Optional )
• Thermo-rest sleeping (optional)
• Water bottles
• Small wash towel
• Sunscreen and lip salve
• Water purification tablets (Pristine, Biox Aqua or Aqua Mira).
• Favorite snack food.(Optional)
• Books and cards etc.(Optional)
• Camera with spare batteries and memory cards.(Optional)
• Insurance certificate.
• Earplugs (optional).
• Hand sanitizer
• Any personal medications

TOILETERS

• Quick-drying towel (medium-sized)
• Soap (preferably biodegradable)
• Tooth brush/paste (preferably biodegradable)
• Deodorants
• Face and body moisturizer
• Nail clippers
• A small mirror (optional)
• Tissue paper/ toilet roll
• Anti-bacterial Hand wash etc ….

Conclusion:

As the weather condition is unpredictable in the Himalayan region, you need to be prepared at all times. A day can start sunny with clear skies and later become cold and windy at the high altitudes.

Sometimes, it can rain and snow during the trekking period.  You need to remember that for a successful trekking journey, your physical comfort must be the first priority.

Note:

Please note that these items listed above will vary according to the season, trek duration. Please remember that your luggage will be carried by the porter, but you need to carry a daypack on your own. We also suggest you pack only necessary items to keep the weight of your equipment to a minimum.

FAQ

• 1

  What is the best time for EBC Trek?

  The most popular months for trekking in the Everest region are March, April, May, October and November, as these months are when the conditions are at their best. The spring and the autumn tend to offer reasonable temperatures, clear skies, little-to-no rain, and less chance of problematic snowfall.

• 2

  Is Everest Base Camp trek worth it?

  The Everest region is a beautiful place to visit and a trek to Everest Base Camp is an ambition for many trekkers. Trekking to the base of the world’s highest mountain is a fantastic achievement and it is well worth the effort. Most people think the positives outweigh the drawback of walking on busier trails

• 3

  How difficult is Everest Base Camp Trek Trek ?

  Trekking to Everest Base Camp is an adventure of a lifetime. This trek can be a life-changing experience for many people. The difficulty level of the Everest Base Camp is moderate. The trekking time often requires two weeks. Even though the EBC Trek requires no prior trekking expertise, it is suggested that the trekker should be determined and be physically fit. Altitude is by far the most challenging aspect of the trek and is what makes it more difficult than your average trek of the same length

• 4

  Training for EBC Trek ?

  Most people will benefit from aerobic conditioning and strength endurance for Everest Base Camp. Although the trek is typically slow and steady, you will be trekking 5-8 hours per day and gaining on average 300m (1000 ft) in elevation each day