Nepal · Everest Region
Everest Base Camp Trek
Trip Highlights
Trip Overview
Everest Base Camp Trek Overview
The Everest Base Camp trek combines well-maintained Himalayan trails with the raw beauty of the Khumbu region — home to the world's highest peaks and the welcoming Sherpa people who have lived among them for centuries. This 14-day journey brings you to the foot of Mt Everest (5,364m) and the summit viewpoint of Kala Patthar (5,545m), offering panoramic views of Pumori, Lhotse, Nuptse, Lobuche, Ama Dablam, Makalu, and Cho Oyu along the way. No climbing experience is required.
The trek begins with a flight to Lukla — 35 minutes from Kathmandu (January, February, June–August, December) or 20 minutes from Manthali/Ramechhap with a 4–5 hour drive from Kathmandu (March–May, September–November). From Lukla, the trail follows the Dudh Koshi River through Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to the bustling trading hub of Namche Bazaar — the main acclimatisation stop for all Everest region treks.
After a rest day in Namche, the HSJ Everest Base Camp trek continues to Tengboche, home to the highest and most famous monastery in the Khumbu Valley, with Ama Dablam towering directly above. The route then climbs through Dingboche and Lobuche, where the landscape shifts from green valleys to high-altitude glacial terrain and the air grows noticeably thinner.
From Lobuche, you hike to Gorak Shep and walk alongside the Khumbu Glacier — one of the world's largest — until you reach Everest Base Camp. Standing here, you are surrounded by the Khumbu Icefall and the same glacier where summit expeditions begin their climb. After returning to Gorak Shep for the night, you rise before dawn the next morning to hike Kala Patthar for sunrise over Mt Everest — the most iconic mountain view on earth.
The descent retraces your steps through Pheriche, Tengboche, and the rhododendron and juniper forests back to Namche, then Lukla. A flight back to Kathmandu concludes the Everest Base Camp trek with HSJ — 14 days that take you from the foothills to the roof of the world and back.
During March–May and September–November, Lukla flights depart from Manthali Airport (4–5 hours from Kathmandu). Hotel pickup is typically 1:00–3:00 AM. HSJ briefs you on exact timing at your pre-trek orientation.
Don't want to risk weather delays or the early morning Ramechhap drive? Add just USD 300 per person for a direct helicopter flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. No flight cancellations, no 1 AM wake-ups — fly on your schedule with spectacular aerial views of the Himalaya on the way in.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, our representative will meet you at Tribhuvan International Airport, extend a warm welcome, and transfer to your hotel. Take advantage of this day to adjust to the new time zone and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Kathmandu. Orientation Program will be at 5 PM. After orientation program welcome dinner with guide.
Today is the beginning of your journey to Everest Base Camp Trek. You will take early flight to Lukla. Upon reaching Lukla enjoy the stunning mountain views. Start your Everest Base Camp trek to Phakding, descending through pine forests and picturesque Sherpa villages. Reach the delightful village of Phakding and settle into a tea house for the night. Make the most of the remaining daylight to explore Phakding. Wrap up your day with a satisfying dinner at the tea house
Today's trek takes you further into the heart of the Khumbu region as you ascend along the Dudh Koshi River. Start your trek after breakfast, crossing suspension bridges and journeying through pine forests. Pass through the small check point of Monjo, verification of your entry into Sagarmatha National Park. Keep trekking alongside the Dudh Koshi River, passing through the village of Jorsalle. Commence the challenging ascent to Namche Bazaar after crossing Tenzing Hillary Suspension Bridge, featuring a steep climb with breathtaking views of Thamserku, Everest, and other peaks. Reach Namche Bazaar, a bustling market town and the commercial hub of the Khumbu region. Check into a tea house for your stay.
Acclimatization is vital for a successful trek to Everest Base Camp, and Namche Bazaar serves as an ideal spot for this purpose. Today is designated for relaxation and exploration, enabling your body to adapt to the higher altitude. Take a short hike to Everest View Hotel for better acclimatization. Explore Namche Bazaar and the Sherpa Museum in the afternoon. Stay hydrated by drinking lots of fluids. Have a taste of local Sherpa cuisine for dinner. Ensure a good night's sleep by going to bed early.
Today trek takes you deeper into the Khumbu region, passing through picturesque landscapes and traditional Sherpa villages. You'll continue your ascent, reaching the village of Deboche, known for its serene monasteries and breathtaking views. Embark on your trek after breakfast from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche, trek uphill for panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam, explore the peaceful Tengboche Monastery upon arrival, then move towards Deboche, cross the Imja River, and finally, check into a tea house for your overnight stay in Deboche.
After staying overnight in Deboche, we head to Dingboche in the morning. The Everest Base Camp trek continues through the alpine forest to Deboche, where you cross Imja Khola (River) using a suspension bridge.
Later in the day, you'll enjoy a stunning view of Ama Dablam. You will climb to the village of Pangboche and follow the trail to Imja Valley. Finally, Reach Dingboche and check into a tea house in Dingboche for your overnight stay.
Acclimatization is essential for a safe and enjoyable trek at higher altitudes. Today is all about resting and exploring Dingboche, helping your body adapt to the rising elevation and getting you ready for the upcoming challenges.Start your day with a breakfast. For additional acclimatization, hike to Nangkartshang Peak, which provides views of Makalu, Lhotse, Cholatse, Tawache, and Ama Dablam. Stay hydrated, take it easy, read, or enjoy light activities during the day, then have dinner at the tea house.
As you trek from Dingboche to Lobuche, you get closer to the Everest Base Camp. The landscape becomes rougher, and the air gets thinner as you travel through the high-altitude terrain. Begin the day with breakfast, get ready for the trek, ascend towards Thukla Pass to enjoy panoramic views of Pumori and Nuptse, take a lunch break in Thukla, continue trekking towards Lobuche. Check into a tea house for your overnight stay, and have dinner and sleep.
Today is an important day as you finally reach Everest Base Camp. Start your morning trek after a filling breakfast in Lobuche, navigate rocky terrain as you ascend to Gorakshep, the last settlement before Everest Base Camp luxury trek. Check into the tea house for a quick lunch, then embark on the journey to Everest Base Camp through the Khumbu Glacier. Take time to capture memories with photographs at this incredible spot. After enjoying the Everest Base Camp luxury trek experience, trek back to Gorakshep, have dinner at the tea house in Gorak Shep, and rest early.
Begin your day early to catch a stunning sunrise over the Himalayas at Kala Pathar and spend time taking photographs. Afterward, descend from Kala Patthar to Gorakshep, trek back down towards Pheriche, stop for lunch in the familiar spot of Lobuche, and finally, reach Pheriche to check into a tea house. Spend the evening resting and enjoy dinner at the tea house.
Today, you'll continue your descent, making your way back to Namche Bazaar. Going down to lower altitudes brings a welcome relief, and you'll encounter familiar landscapes along the way. Check in at Hotel Sherpaland and have dinner.
Today is the last part of your Everest Base Camp trek as you come down from Namche Bazaar to Lukla. The path goes through familiar villages and landscapes, giving you a chance to think about the amazing journey you've been on. Start your descent from Namche Bazaar after breakfast. Take breaks for tea, enjoy the scenic beauty, and catch glimpses of the mountains one last time. Have lunch in the charming village of Phakding. Continue your Everest 3 passes trek, crossing suspension bridges and passing through forests. Finally, arrive in Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region, and check into a tea house. Have a dinner celebration dinner with all crew members and sleep.
Take a morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu. Once you land at the airport, you'll be transferrred to the hotel. Explore Kathmandu, enjoy dinner and enjoy your last night in kathmandu. Please note that flight operations are solely determined by the airline and may be influenced by the weather.
Use your last morning in Kathmandu according to your flight time. Pack your things, check out of the hotel, Head to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure. Wishing you a safe and pleasant journey back home!
What's Included
Altitude Profile
Weather & Best Time
Average temperatures are indicative for Everest Region (~3,500–5,500 m). Actual conditions vary with altitude and year.
Recommended Equipment
Available Departures
Frequently Asked Questions
The Everest Base Camp Trek typically takes 14 days, including arrival in Kathmandu, acclimatization days, trekking days, and return flights from the Everest region.
The total distance of the Everest Base Camp Trek is approximately 130 km (80 miles) round trip, starting and ending at Lukla. On average, trekkers walk 8–15 km per day, depending on the itinerary and acclimatization schedule.
The Everest Base Camp Trek is rated moderate to challenging. No technical climbing skills are required, but trekkers should be physically fit and prepared to walk 5–7 hours per day at high altitude.
Previous trekking experience is helpful but not mandatory. With proper preparation, acclimatization, and guidance, first-time trekkers can successfully complete the Everest Base Camp Trek.
Trekkers require two permits: • Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit These permits are mandatory for all trekkers entering the Everest region. Himalayan Social Journey will issue and provide permit
The best seasons for the Everest Base Camp Trek are: • Spring (March–May) – mild temperatures, blooming rhododendrons • Autumn (September–November) – stable weather and clear mountain views These months offer the best trekking conditions in the Everest regio
Accommodation is in local tea houses (lodges) along the trail. Rooms are simple and mostly twin-sharing. At higher altitudes, bathrooms may be shared, and heating is usually available only in dining areas.
Meals typically include breakfast, lunch, and dinner during trekking days. Menus consist of Nepali meals such as dal bhat, soups, noodles, rice, pasta, and vegetarian options. Special dietary needs can be accommodated with advance notice.
Yes, altitude sickness (AMS) is a potential risk above 3,000 meters. HSJ itineraries include proper acclimatization days, gradual ascent, and trained guides to minimize risks. Following guidelines and staying hydrated is essential.
If serious altitude symptoms occur, immediate descent is required. In emergencies, helicopter evacuation can be arranged. All trekkers must have insurance covering high-altitude trekking and evacuation. ⸻
Yes. Travel insurance is mandatory and must cover trekking up to at least 5,500 meters, including emergency helicopter rescue and medical treatment.
Trekkers should have good cardiovascular fitness and stamina. Regular walking, hiking, stair climbing, and light strength training before the trek are highly recommended.
Yes. HSJ provides licensed, experienced trekking guides. Porters are available and recommended to make the trek more comfortable. One porter usually carries 20–25 kg for two trekkers.
The standard baggage allowance for the Lukla flight is 15 kg per person (including hand luggage). Excess baggage may incur extra charges or may not be accepted depending on flight conditions.
Electricity and Wi-Fi are available in most villages but become limited at higher altitudes. Charging devices and internet access usually require additional payment.
Temperatures vary by season and altitude: • Daytime: 10°C to 15°C at lower elevations • Nighttime: Can drop to –10°C to –15°C at higher elevations like Gorakshep Proper cold-weather clothing is essential.
Yes. With good preparation, a guided itinerary, and acclimatization days, beginners can successfully complete the Everest Base Camp Trek.
Flights to Lukla are weather-dependent, and delays or cancellations are common. HSJ recommends keeping buffer days or considering helicopter alternatives when necessary.
Tap water is not safe to drink. Trekkers should use boiled water, purification tablets, or water filters available along the trail.
ATMs are limited beyond Namche Bazaar. Trekkers should carry sufficient Nepali cash (55000) NPR for personal expenses, Wi-Fi, charging, drinks, and tips.
Tipping is not mandatory but is customary in Nepal. Tips for guides and porters are appreciated based on service quality and group siz
Yes. HSJ offers customizable Everest Base Camp itineraries, including extra acclimatization days, helicopter return options, and luxury lodge upgrades.
If Lukla flights are cancelled due to weather conditions, an alternative overland route by road can be used. Trekkers can drive from Kathmandu to Salleri (approximately 8–10 hours) and stay overnight. The following day, a 4-hour drive from Salleri to Surkey allows the trek to begin from there. This option adds 2–3 extra trekking days to the itinerary but ensures the journey can continue safely. Himalayan Social Journey provides full assistance with transportation arrangements, route adjustments, and itinerary management in the event of flight disruptions.
Yes. Solo travelers are welcome, and guaranteed departures are available even for one person. Solo trekkers may join a small group or choose a private trek with a licensed guide, in accordance with Nepal trekking regular. Solo travelers opting for a private room throughout the trek are subject to a single supplement of USD 300, depending on availability at the lodges.
The Everest Base Camp Trek operates with a minimum group size of 1 person and a maximum of 10- 12 trekkers per group to ensure safety, comfort, and a personalized trekking experience.
Solo travelers opting for a private room throughout the trek are subject to a single supplement of USD 300, depending on availability at the lodges.
Most nationalities can obtain a tourist visa on arrival at Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport or at land border crossings. A 30-day visa costs USD 50 and a 90-day visa costs USD 125. Citizens of India do not require a visa. Bring passport-size photos and USD cash for the fee.
Yes. The 12-day Everest Panorama Trek reaches Tengboche Monastery (3,860m) and offers stunning Everest views without going to base camp. For those wanting EBC but with less time, a 10-day helicopter-assisted option flies from Lukla to Namche and back, completing the trek in fewer days.
Meet Your Guides
Mingmar Sherpa
Lead Trekking GuideSantosh Dhakal
Trekking GuideIndra Bahadur Bam
Trekking GuideDipak Magar
Trekking GuideTraveler Stories
Traveler Reviews
"EBC Trek, Fantastic experience"
Truly fantastic experience on my April 2025 Everest Base Camp trek… Santosh ji was a professional and incredibly knowledgeable mountain guide.
Read More"EBC and Gokyo Ri trek with Indra!"
Amazing trek guided by an amazing guide named Indra… very flexible and took good care of us.
Read More"Great November EBC Trek"
Group of 8 family and friends did the EBC trek with helicopter back from Pheriche. Our guide, Mingmar, was the best.
Read More"Winter Everest Base Camp Trek"
Booked the 16-day Everest Base Camp Trek… highly recommend asking for Mingmar.
Read More"Thanks for Helping to achieve my Dream"
Thanks to my guide Mr. Santosh… because of his guidance I was able to summit Mount Everest Base Camp.
Read More"Third time and always amazing"
Did the EBC trek with Mingmar — looked after us like family.
Read More"Three Passes Trek"
Two-person, private 16-day Three Passes trek in late Sept–mid Oct 2023. Guide Dipak Magarr was amazing.
Read More"Dream come TRUE with HSJ"
EBC was on my bucket list. Made possible by HSJ, especially guide Mingmar Sherpa.
Read More"Everest Base Camp Trek with Mingmar and Deepak"
One of the best experiences of my life… I reached EBC with no problem.
Read More"Had a great experience trekking EBC with HSJ"
Trek went very smooth — lodges booked in advance, guides & porter very helpful.
Read More"EBC — An experience of a lifetime thanks to Mingmar"
EBC was beyond my capabilities, so I thought, but Mingmar's encouragement gave me the confidence.
Read More"Definitely a Worthwhile Experience"
Did the 16-day Everest Base Camp expedition — one of the best travel experiences I've had.
Read More"Mingmar Sherpa is the best"
Did the 16-day Everest Base Camp expedition — the most amazing experience.
Read More"Trip of a lifetime. Mingmar is the best"
Everyone in our group made it to base camp… he even got us all official certificates from Namche.
Read More"Everest Base Camp Trek"
Small group trek to Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar with knowledgeable guide Bishnu.
Read More"12-day Luxurious EBC Trek with Heli Ride Back to Lukla"
Booked our EBC trip for 3 in May 2019, COVID-delayed until 2022. Run by guide Shankar with porters Deepak and Santos.
Read More"Luxurious EBC Trek With Heli Ride Back to Lukla"
Ask for Mingmar — he knew one of the monks at Tengboche Monastery who opened it just for us.
Read More"Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter back to Lukla"
Absolutely amazing experience with the best guide, Mingmar Sherpa.
Read More"Fantastic experience"
16-day trek to base camp… guide Ganga Thapa had over 45 base camp trips under his belt. Support Nepal, Trust HSJ — go to EBC.
Read More
