Everest Base Camp Trek trek in Nepal - Moderate to Challenging trekking route

Everest Base Camp Trek

Challenging

The Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the most iconic and sought-after treks in the world. This legendary journey takes you through the heart of the Khumbu region, offering breathtaking views of the world's highest peaks including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam. The trek combines challenging high-altitude hiking with rich Sherpa culture, ancient monasteries, and stunning Himalayan landscapes.

12-14 days

Duration

130 km

Distance

5,545m

Max Altitude

$800-1500

Cost Range

Trek Overview

Essential Information

Difficulty:
Moderate to Challenging
Duration:
12-14 days
Distance:
130 km
Max Altitude:
5,545m
Min Altitude:
2,610m
Cost Range:
$800-1500
Guides Required:
No
Solo Friendly:
Yes
Family Friendly:
No

Best Seasons

March-May
September-November

Required Permits

TIMS Card Permit required for this trek
Sagarmatha National Park Permit Permit required for this trek

Trek Highlights

Spectacular views of Mount Everest and surrounding peaks
Experience Sherpa culture and hospitality
Visit ancient monasteries including Tengboche
Explore the bustling Namche Bazaar
Reach Everest Base Camp at 5,364m
Climb Kala Patthar for panoramic views
Walk through the beautiful Khumbu Valley

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1

2,860m
Route: Kathmandu → Lukla
Duration: 35 min flight
Scenic flight to Lukla, the gateway to Everest region

Day 2

2,610m
Route: Lukla → Phakding
Duration: 3-4 hours
Gentle descent through beautiful valleys

Day 3

3,440m
Route: Phakding → Namche Bazaar
Duration: 5-6 hours
Steep climb to the Sherpa capital

Day 4

3,440m
Route: Namche Bazaar → Namche Bazaar
Duration: Acclimatization day
Rest day with optional hike to Everest View Hotel

Day 5

3,870m
Route: Namche Bazaar → Tengboche
Duration: 5-6 hours
Visit the famous Tengboche Monastery

Day 6

4,410m
Route: Tengboche → Dingboche
Duration: 5-6 hours
Enter the Imja Valley

Day 7

4,410m
Route: Dingboche → Dingboche
Duration: Acclimatization day
Optional hike to Nangkartshang Peak

Day 8

4,940m
Route: Dingboche → Lobuche
Duration: 5-6 hours
Trek through the Khumbu Glacier

Day 9

5,170m
Route: Lobuche → Gorak Shep
Duration: 3-4 hours
Reach the last settlement before Base Camp

Day 10

5,364m
Route: Gorak Shep → Everest Base Camp
Duration: 6-8 hours
Achieve your goal - Everest Base Camp!

Day 11

5,545m
Route: Gorak Shep → Kala Patthar
Duration: 2-3 hours
Sunrise views of Everest from Kala Patthar

Day 12

4,240m
Route: Gorak Shep → Pheriche
Duration: 5-6 hours
Begin descent back to lower altitudes

Day 13

3,440m
Route: Pheriche → Namche Bazaar
Duration: 6-7 hours
Return to Namche Bazaar

Day 14

2,860m
Route: Namche Bazaar → Lukla
Duration: 6-7 hours
Final day of trekking back to Lukla

Essential Tips

Start acclimatization early and take rest days seriously
Book flights to Lukla well in advance, especially in peak season
Carry warm clothing as temperatures drop significantly at higher altitudes
Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water to prevent altitude sickness
Respect local customs and ask permission before taking photos
Carry cash as ATMs are limited in the mountains
Consider hiring a porter to carry heavy loads

Travel Insurance

Protect your Everest Base Camp Trek adventure

High-altitude trekking above 4,000m requires proper insurance. Many standard policies don't cover emergency helicopter evacuation.

World Nomads Explorer

4.7
$80-150/month

Best for:

High-altitude trekking Adventure sports Helicopter evacuation

Coverage includes:

  • Medical up to $100k
  • Emergency evacuation
  • Trip cancellation
  • Equipment protection
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SafetyWing Nomad Insurance

4.5
$45/month

Best for:

Budget travelers Digital nomads Long stays

Coverage includes:

  • Medical up to $250k
  • Emergency evacuation
  • Travel delay
Get Quote from SafetyWing

Why travel insurance is essential for Nepal

  • Helicopter evacuation from high altitudes can cost $5,000-15,000
  • Medical facilities in remote areas are limited
  • Weather can cause unexpected trip delays or cancellations
  • Many trekking permits require proof of insurance

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Packing List

Warm sleeping bag (-10°C rating)
Trekking poles
Waterproof hiking boots
Thermal layers
Down jacket
Sunscreen and sunglasses
First aid kit
Water purification tablets

Emergency Contacts

Nepal Police: 100
Tourism Police: 1144
Lukla Airport: +977-38-540123
Namche Health Post: +977-38-540123
Weather Info

Quick Facts

Fitness Level
Good physical fitness required, previous trekking experience recommended
Altitude Sickness Risk
High risk above 3,000m, proper acclimatization essential
Accommodation
Tea houses, Lodges, Guesthouses
Transportation
Flight to Lukla, Domestic airport