Mount Everest, also known ‘Sagarmatha’ in Nepal is the tallest mountain in the world. Its peak is 8,848 meters (29,029 feet) in height. This measurement is officially recognized by both Nepal Government and the Government of China.
Everest Base Camp trekking in Nepal is one of the most famous treks in the world. Mt. Everest attracts many trekkers for only the best reasons. At the end of the trek, you will get to see the entire Himalayan range up close. The beauty of this view is the most captivating part of the whole journey.
There are two climbing routes, one from the southeast in Nepal which is also known as the “standard route” and the other from the north in Tibet, China. Tenzing Norway and Edmund Hillary made the first official ascent of Everest in 1953, using the southeast route. After their successful ascent, the Everest Base Camp routes continue to be explored by people from all over the world.
The Everest Base Camp trek on the south side is one of the most popular trekking routes visited by thousands of trekkers every year. The trek begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. The exciting trekking trail starts from Lukla followed by the Sherpa village of Namche Bazaar, at 3,440 meters (11,290 ft), via the valley of Dudh Koshi River.
During the trek to Everest Base Camp, you will get the opportunity to visit several villages of Tengboche, Pangboche, Dingboche, and Lobuche. You will get enough time to acclimate yourself throughout the trails. On the way, you will explore ethnic Buddhist culture and meet friendly and warm Sherpa locals.
The trekking trail will lead you to Gorakshep located at the base of Kala Patthar (5,545m/18187ft,). After a short hike up to the highest spot (Kala Patthar), you will enjoy the breathtaking views of different high altitude peaks; Mt. Everest (8,848m/29,028ft), Lhotse (8,516m/24,940ft), Nuptse (7,855m/25,772ft) and Mt. Pumori (7,161m/23,488ft).
One of the most important factors that will determine the success of your trek is the weather conditions. As bad weather can cause a big obstruction in your trek, it is wise to choose the best trekking season. However, it is difficult to predict the weather condition in the mountains.
April to May (Spring season) is the best time to visit the Everest Base Camp because the weather is not too cold and you will be able to see the mountains very clearly. The other good time to visit is from September to November, during the autumn season. In this season, there will be more climbers than in spring season.
Trip Highlights
- Everest Base Camp, the base camp of the highest mountain in the world.
- View of Kusum Kangguru mountain (6367m).
- Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- The main trading center of Khumbu region- Namche Bazaar.
- Mesmerizing view of Khumbu Glacier and Khumbu Ice Fall from Kala Patthar.
- Ethnic Sherpa villages like Namche, Khumjung, Dingboche, Lobuche, Tengboche, and Pangboche.
- Highest peaks like Mt. Pumori, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Makalu and Mt. Nuptse
- Sherpa people’s lifestyle, unique cultural and hospitality.
Outline Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu airport (1380m)
Day 02: Sightseeing around Kathmandu valley
Day 03: Fly to Lukla and trek to Phakding (2610m)
Day 04: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3445m)
Day 05: Day Acclimatization in Namche Bazaar (3445m)
Day 06: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3860m)
Day 07: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche (4360m)
Day 08: Day Acclimatization in Dingboche (4360m)
Day 09: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche (4930m)
Day 10: Trek from Lobuche to Gorakshep (5160m) and Hiking to Everest Base Camp (5545m), and return back to Gorakshep.
Day 11: Trek to Kala Patthar (5545m) & trek back to Pheriche (4280m)
Day 12: Trek from Pheriche to Namche Bazaar
Day 13: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla
Day 14: Fly to Kathmandu from Lukla and transfer to Hotel
Day 15: Departure to Home
Everest Base Camp Trekking Cost
The Everest Base Camp is very affordable. The cost for the Everest Base Camp trek is mostly depended on the season, the number of days of the trek and other additional requirements. There are many costs such as accommodation, meal, transport, permits, guides and porters that you will need to consider while preparing your budget for the trek.
Everest Base Camp Trek Accommodations Costs
Everest Base Camp is a tea house trek which means that there is lodging facility along the way. Most of the teahouses offer two single bedrooms with blankets. But, you are recommended to bring a sleeping bag as well since it might get very cold at night.
The cost of accommodation varies according to the teahouse throughout the trail. At low elevation, the price can be as low as USD 1-2. However, the prices can rise up to around USD 10 at a higher elevation.
The prices also change with peak seasons and off seasons. During off seasons, the rooms are easily available and the price of the single room is also low. It is also easier to negotiate for better prices.
But, during peak seasons, the price of the single room is high. In this season, many trekkers get their guides to book ahead.
Everest Base Camp Trek Food Costs
During the Everest Base Camp trek, you can enjoy authentic Nepalese food such as Dal Bhat (rice and lentils), as well as a variety of other items such as noodles, potatoes, handmade bread, soup, and pizza. You will get full freedom to choose food items from the menu provided by the lodge.
However, as you move up the higher altitudes, the price of goods will also start to rise. The price of eggs, rice, potatoes and western food increases. As these items need to be carried up, the extra costs are added.
Everest Base Camp Trek Transportations costs
Everest Base Camp trek starts from the scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. The flight cost is around USD 160 per person for a one-way trip. From Lukla, your entire trek will be on foot.
Another option is to take an 8 hours bus ride from Kathmandu to Jiri. The bus fair is around USD 8 per person. For this trip, you need to add extra budget for 6 days accommodation, meal and transport costs.
Everest Base Camp Trek Permits Costs
Everest Base Camp trek requires two different permits:
- Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
Trekkers need to obtain Sagarmatha National Park permit to enter in the Solo Khumbu region. There is a check post along the way in Monjo. You will need to verify your obtained permits there.
This permit can be issued by Kathmandu or Monjo and the total cost is USD 20 including government tax. The cost is the same for individual trekkers and organized trekkers.
- Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit
Trekkers also need to obtain Rural Permit which cost 2000 NPR before entering the Khumbu region.
- Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit (Optional)
If you are taking the classic route to Everest Base Camp from Jiri, you need to obtain Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit as well.
Everest Base Camp Trek Guide and Porter Cost
For a successful trail, professional guides and strong porters play a significant role. Without a guide or a porter, journey on a trail can be difficult. Trekking with a local Sherpa guide can help gather memorable experiences related to trekking, culture, and travel.
Price for hiring the guide is around USD 25 per day which will include wage, accommodation, meal, and insurance. Likewise, the cost of hiring a porter is comparatively less at around USD 18 per day. With the help of a porter, you can manage your backpack and even share the load. It will be difficult to carry around 12-15kg bulk and walk for a whole day.
Physical Condition & Experience Requirements
Everest Base Camp is considered as one of the most challenging treks. However, even though this trek does not require much experience, trekking in higher altitude still demand a good physical condition. If you are physically fit, you can accomplish this trek successfully.
See: How to Train for Everest Base Camp Trek
Hence, to enhance your strength you can do regular cardio exercises such as jogging, cycling, swimming and lots of walking. You need to be mentally prepared to walk 5-6 hours in the hills daily. Thus, you can practice by walking up and down the stairs at your home or office.
Prior experience for this trek can be an advantage but cardio training can enhance your stamina and endurance as well. Before taking this trip, you need to consult with a doctor about your medical condition and altitude sickness. A doctor might advise you on altitude sickness prevention and treatment.
Equipment lists for Everest Base Camp Trek
This adventure trekking trip needs various kind of equipment and hiking gears. Some essential gears are listed below. All the gears might not be required, you can choose according to your need:
- Head: Sunglasses, Scarf, and woolen caps.
- Lower Body: Lightweight thermal pants or trousers or wool pants, Waterproof Pants, Hiking shorts and Under Garments
- Upper Body: Lightweight thermal T-shirts or tops, Waterproof jacket, Down Jacket and Vest
- Hands: Light weight gloves and Heavyweight gloves with waterproof outer shell
- Feet: Thin, lightweight inner socks, Thick, warm wool, Hiking socks and Hiking boots
- Extra: Sleeping bag, Headlamps, Trekking Bags, Water Bottles, Wet Wipes, Hand towel, Face and body moisturizer and Female Hygiene Products
See: Packing list for Everest Base Camp Trek
Note:
Everest Base Camp trek explores high altitude, scenic view of the high Himalayas and cultural diversity. Trekking at the high Himalayan region also brings in exciting adventure and challenges. Sometimes you will have to be prepared for irregular weather conditions, health issues, and unexpected natural disasters as well.
If you want to discuss any details of this trip, we will release any necessary information and change the itinerary as per your requirement. For more information about this trip, you can also visit our website. You can talk to us through: Contact Nepal Eco Adventure
