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Everest Base Camp Trek

[ 17 Nights / 18 Days ]

Trip Overview

Rated one of the best treks in the world – The Everest Base Camp Trek takes you into the heart of the Himalayas, offering stunning views of the world’s highest peaks and a deep dive into Sherpa culture. Walk through picturesque villages, ancient monasteries, and glacier-carved valleys within the magnificent Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park – a true adventure at the top of the world.

Your unforgettable journey begins with a drive to Ramechhap, followed by a thrilling flight to Lukla (9,185 ft). Begin the trek with a short, pleasant walk on the first day, then a steady ascent through lush forests, picturesque valleys, and rugged mountain trails. As you follow in the footsteps toward Everest Base Camp, each day reveals new adventures, cultural encounters, and awe-inspiring scenery.

After reaching the legendary Everest Base Camp (17,550 ft) and summiting Kala Patthar (18,190 ft) for panoramic views of the world’s highest peaks, you’ll retrace your steps to Lukla and return to Kathmandu with your spirit uplifted, your heart full, and your mind brimming with unforgettable stories.

A few important things to know – and that we carefully consider to make your Everest Base Camp trek smooth and rewarding:

It's Not a Luxury Trip
The Everest Base Camp trek is not a luxury journey but an adventure that reveals your courage, adaptability, and endurance. It’s an opportunity to embrace the spirit of adventure and discover the joy and confidence that comes from stepping outside your comfort zone.

Who Can Join?
You don’t need prior trekking experience, but you should have a reasonable level of fitness. Porters will carry your duffel bags, so you only need to bring a small daypack with the essentials you’ll need for the day’s hike. With a slow, steady pace and proper acclimatization, almost anyone can reach base camp.

Smart Acclimatization
Our thoughtfully crafted itinerary includes three nights of initial acclimatization in Namche Bazaar (3,440 m / 11,286 ft), instead of the usual two, giving your body ample time to adjust to the altitude. These acclimatization days offer the perfect opportunity to explore vibrant Sherpa villages and enjoy short, refreshing hikes amid stunning mountain scenery. This extra day greatly improves your acclimatization, ensuring a safer, more comfortable, and more enjoyable onward journey.

Flight Cancellations and Buffer Days
Even during the best seasons, flights to and from Lukla may occasionally be cancelled or delayed due to weather conditions, as Lukla Airport operates strictly on visual flight rules. To ensure a smooth journey and accommodate such situations, we have included two buffer days in Kathmandu at the end of the trek – giving you time to relax, explore, or simply unwind before your return flight.

Helicopter Flight Options
You can book helicopter flights to and from Lukla, though it’s best to have a group to share the cost, as the fare can be quite expensive.

Mountain Lodges & Cuisine
During the trek, you’ll stay in simple, family-run mountain lodges that offer a warm insight into authentic Sherpa hospitality. While accommodations are basic, we carefully select cozy and comfortable lodges to ensure a pleasant stay. As you climb higher, bathrooms are often shared, and hot showers are available, though not always recommended due to the cold weather. Enjoy freshly prepared meals along the way – we suggest hearty, high-carb dishes to keep you warm and energized.

Experienced & Caring Guides
Our guides are more than just trekking professionals – they’re trusted companions who ensure your comfort, safety, and well-being every step of the way. With years of high-altitude experience, they are skilled in managing altitude-related issues and offering personal care tailored to your needs.

Commitment to Service
We understand that reality doesn’t always match expectations. That’s why we are dedicated to delivering personalized service, careful planning, and meticulous attention to every detail, making your journey both comfortable and unforgettable.

Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is mandatory for this trek, and the policy should cover emergency medical care, trip interruptions or cancellations, and evacuation. We recommend that you purchase travel and medical insurance independently, based on your preference and convenience. It can be easily arranged online. We keep a copy of insurance with us and provide it to the relevant authorities if required during your journey.

Best Season and Dates:
The ideal seasons for the Everest Base Camp trek are March to May and October to November, when the weather is generally clear and the mountain views are at their most spectacular. You can plan a private trip on your preferred dates or join one of our fixed departures – whichever best fits your schedule and travel style.

Brief itinerary

Day 01: Arrive in Kathamndu (4,430 ft): Pick up at airport and transfer to hotel

Day 02: Drive to Ramechhap in the afternoon / 4 ½ hours drive

Day 03: Fly to Lukla (9185 ft) / trek to Phakding (8,700 ft), 3 ½ hours trek

Day 04: Trek to Namche Bazaar (11,300 ft), 6 hours trek

Day 05: Rest Day at Namche Bazaar for acclimatization / explore village

Day 06: Rest Day at Namche Bazaar for acclimatization / day hike to Thamo

Day 07: Trek to Deboche (12,500 ft), 6 hours trek

Day 08: Trek to Dingboche (14,470 ft), 5 hours trek

Day 09: Rest at Dingboche for acclimatization

Day 10: Trek to Lobuche (16,175 ft), 5 hours trek

Day 11: Trek to EBC (17,550feet) – Gorakshep (16,930 ft), 8 hours trek

Day 12: Climb Kala Patthar (18,190 ft) / return to Pheriche, 8 hours trek

Day 13: Trek to Namche Bazaar (11,300 ft), 8 hours trek

Day 14: Trek to Lukla (9,185 ft), 7 hours trek

Day 15: Fly to Ramechhap, then drive to Kathmandu

Day 16: In Kathmandu: Sightseeing to World Heritage sites in Kathmandu

Day 17: In Kathmandu: Sightseeing to World Heritage sites in Kathmandu

Day 18: Depart from Kathmandu: Transfer to airport for return flight

Detailed Itinerary ↓

Itinerary

Day 01 : Arrive in Kathamndu

Arrive in Kathamndu (1350m / 4430ft): Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), Kathmandu, our representative will welcome you and transfer to your hotel. After check-in, you will be briefed about the trek and answer any last-minute questions. If time permits, step outside your hotel to explore the surrounding area. In the evening, you will be picked up from the hotel for a short walk to a local restaurant, where you will enjoy a Welcome Dinner.

Highlights: Vibrant Thamel streets, bustling local markets, traditional Nepali dinner.

Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: At a Hotel Kathmandu

Day 02 : Drive to Ramechhap

Drive to Ramechhap (4 ½ hours’ drive): Flights to Lukla operate from Ramechhap Airport, which is about a 4 ½ hours’ drive from Kathmandu. After a leisurely breakfast and taking some time to change Nepali currency and checking the trekking gears, you will take a scenic drive to Ramechhap in the afternoon. Upon arrival at Ramechhap, chek in at the local lodge for one night.

Highlights: Scenic drive.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Overnight: Local Lodge

Day 03 : Fly to Lukla / trek to Phakding

Fly to Lukla (9185 ft) / trek to Phakding (8700 ft) – 5 miles / 3.5 hours: In the morning, take a short but scenic flight to Lukla on a small 18–20-seater plane. Upon arrival at Lukla, take a moment to reorganize your backpack and duffel bag in preparation for the trek. Make sure you carry everything you need for hiking in your backpack, as your duffel bag will be carried by porters who usually walk ahead. The trek begins by passing through Lukla town and following the Dudh Koshi River through the charming Sherpa villages of Chheplung and Ghat before reaching Phakding.

Highlights: Scenic flight, Sherpa villages, prayer wheels, mani stones.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Local Mountain Lodge

Overnight: At mountain lodge
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Day 04 : Trek to Namche

Trek to Namche Bazaar (11,300 ft) – 6.5 miles / 6 hours: The day begins with a scenic walk along the river, passing through the charming villages of Benkar, Jorsale, and Monjo, where you will enter Sagarmatha National Park (UNESCO site). Cross the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge, then climb steadily through pine forests. From here, the trail climbs about 2,000 feet uphill to Namche Bazaar. This section is considered one of the difficult ascents of the trek, but walking at a steady pace and taking regular breaks makes it more manageable and also supports proper acclimatization. Though steep, the first glimpse of Everest and Lhotse enroute is unforgettable.

Namche Bazaar, known as the Sherpa capital and gateway to Everest, has a rich history as a trading hub. For centuries, Tibetan traders brought yak caravans over the Nangpa La Pass (19,000 ft), carrying wool, butter, salt, dried meat, and Chinese goods to exchange with locals. Today, Namche retains its importance – though now as a vibrant trekkers’ hub. You’ll find everything from trekking equipment shops, banks, and ATMs to internet cafes, bakeries, pubs, and restaurants, making it a lively and fascinating stop on your journey.

Highlights: Hillary Bridge, Everest viewpoint, Sherpa culture, bustling mountain market.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Local Mountain Lodge

Day 05 : Acclimatization at Namche

Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazaar: After breakfast, set out on a short acclimatization hike up to Syangboche (12,200 ft), which offers breathtaking views and helps your body adjust to the higher altitude. The trail begins with a steep climb from Namche, winding past stone steps and switchbacks. As you ascend, views gradually open to Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Kongde Ri. It is about 1 hour 15 minutes uphill to Syangboche, and takes about 30-40 minutes to return. The airstrip of Syangboche Airport (one of the highest in the world, though not in regular use) is the highlight. Upon returning to Namche, visit the Sagarmatha National Park Museum to learn about the region’s ecology, towering peaks, mountaineering history, and Sherpa culture. Afterwards, take a stroll through Namche Market, known for its bakeries, trekking shops, cafes, and handicrafts.

Highlights: Panoramic views from Syangboche, learning about mountain ecology.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Local Mountain Lodge

Day 06 : Acclimatization at Namche

Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazaar: Take a pleasant hike to the picturesque village of Thamo, a quieter Sherpa settlement known for its centuries-old Buddhist nunnery and traditional yak pastures surrounded by alpine scenery. The trail follows the Bhote Koshi River valley, on the old trading route to Tibet. Along the way, enjoy serene forested trails with chances to spot wildlife such as Himalayan thar, musk deer or colorful pheasants. Return to Namche by afternoon and unwind at a cozy cafe or explore the local shops. This second acclimatization day plays an important role in adjusting to the altitude, ensuring that your onward journey is safer, more comfortable, and more enjoyable.

Highlights: Pleasant walk, authentic Sherpa village life, peaceful monastery.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Local Mountain lodge

Day 07 : Trek to Tengboche

Trek to Tengboche (3870 m / 12700 ft), distance (11 km / 7 miles) 6 hours: Begin the day with a scenic walk along a winding trail to Sanasa, offering spectacular views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and Nuptse. Descend to the Dudh Koshi River at Phunki Tenga, then make a steady climb through pine and rhododendron forests to Tengboche. Visit the Tengboche Monastery – the largest and most important monastery in the Khumbu region, and gain insight into Tibetan Buddhism.

Nestled in the lap of Mt. Ama Dablam, Tengboche, which translates to ‘great high place’ in the Sherpa language, holds deep spiritual significance. Here, climbers receive blessings before attempting Everest, preparing themselves to face the sheer magnitude of the formidable challenges on the route to the summit. After exploring the monastery, continue downhill through rhododendron forests to the peaceful village of Deboche, known for its tranquility and surrounding beauty.

Highlights: Tengboche Monastery, striking view of Mt. Ama Dablam.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Local Mountain lodge

Day 08 : Trek to Dingboche

Trek to Dingboche (4410 m / 14470 ft) distance (10 km / 6 miles) 5 hours: You will walk through the alpine forest and Imja River and start to see the change in the vegetation. The yellow shrubs replace the lustrous green trees. Journey towards Dingboche is picturesque. The trail drops down to the riverbed, crossing the Imja River before climbing up to Dingboche – a typical Sherpa village that offers spectacular mountain views.

Highlights: Pangboche village, wide valley views, unique high-altitude farming village.

Overnight at mountain lodge.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Day 09 : Acclimatization at Dingboche

Spend the day resting for acclimatization. Today you can go for a short hike on a ridge top to have even better views of the Himalayas or can do a day hike to Chukung Valley.

Highlights: Himalayan panoramas, acclimatization hikes.

Overnight: At mountain lodge
Meal: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Day 10 : Trek to Lobuche

Trek to Lobuche (4930 m / 16175 ft), distance (7.5 km / 4.5 miles) 5 hours trek: The trail to Lobuche climbs the ridge above Dingboche, passing a chortens (Buddhist shrines), then descends to Thukla – a broad terrace above the Khumbu Khola valley. From Thukla, the steep trail climbs onto the terminal moraine of the Khumbu glacier. When you reach the pass, you will see a line of memorials in tribute to the climbers who have died on Everest. The panorama of the peaks from this point is beautiful. From the memorial the route descends a little and follows the side of the valley to Lobuche.

Highlights: Climbers’ memorials, glacier moraine landscapes, awe-inspiring mountain amphitheater.

Overnight: At mountain lodge
Meal: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Day 11 : Trek to Everest Base Camp

Trek to Everest Base Camp (5350 m/17550 ft) / return to Gorakshep (5160 m /16930 ft), distance (15 km / 9.3 miles) 8 hours trek: Today is the both hardest and rewarding day of the trip. From Lobuche, keep climbing for approximately two hours to arrive at Gorak Shep where you are treated to yet another beautiful view of the highest mountains of the world. After a short rest, head towards the Everest Base Camp. It is about 5 hours’ round trip from Gorakshep to Base Camp. Enjoy the blissful moment of standing at the base of Mt. Everest! You can enjoy amazing views of the highest mountains of the world such as Nuptse, Khumbuste, Pumori etc. After soaking in the atmosphere of Everest Base Camp, you will walk back to Gorakshep to spend a night.

Highlights: Everest Base Camp, Khumbu Icefall.

Overnight: At mountain lodge
Meal: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Day 12 : Climb Kala Patthar

Climb Kala Patthar (5,545m / 18190 ft) and trek to Pheriche (4370m / 14340 ft), distance (13 km / 8 miles) 8 hours trek: This is another important day. After early breakfast, climb to Kala Patthar peak for one of the close-up and formidable views of Mt. Everest and several other highest peaks. The world’s highest peak is barely 6 miles from the Kala Patthar. This rocky peak offers an unbelievable 360-degree panoramic view of Skyscraping Mountains and vast glaciers. After observing the oustanding scenery, descend back to Lubuche, Thukla, and then to Pheriche.

Highlights: Unrivaled panoramic views.

Overnight: At mountain lodge
Meal: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Day 13 : Return to Namche

Return to Namche Bazaar (3440 m / 11287 ft), distance (15 km / 9 miles) 7 hours: Today is one of the longer trekking days, so an early morning start is essential. From Pheriche, begin your descent on familiar trails, gradually leaving behind the high alpine terrain. The path leads you down through Pangboche and Tengboche, After Tengboche, descend steeply through shaded forests, cross the Dudh Koshi River on suspension bridges, and then climb gradually along the valley trails. Passing through smaller Sherpa villages, prayer wheels, and mani walls, the path eventually brings you back to the vibrant hub of Namche Bazaar.

Highlights: Returning greenery and vibrant Namche Bazaar.

Overnight: At mountain lodge
Meal: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Day 14 : Return to Lukla

Return to Lukla (2800 m / 9185 ft), distance (18 km / 11 miles) 7 hours: Today marks the final day of trekking on your Everest Base Camp adventure. After breakfast, begin your descent from Namche, retracing the familiar trail that winds steeply down toward the Dudh Koshi River. Cross several suspension bridges draped with colorful prayer flags, and pass through the charming villages of Monjo, Jorsale, and Phakding, each offering one last glimpse into the Sherpa way of life. The trail, though mostly downhill at first, includes a few short uphill climbs before finally leading you into Lukla, where the journey began. Upon arrival, take time to relax, refresh, and reflect on the incredible experiences of the past two weeks.

Highlights: A rewarding sense of achievement, and the feeling of returning closer to civilization.

Meal: Breakfast
Overnight: At hotel in Kathmandu

Day 15 : Fly to Ramechhap, then drive to Kathmandu

Fly to Ramechhap, then drive to Kathmandu: This morning, bid a heartfelt farewell to your guide and porters before boarding the plane for your flight back to Ramechhap. Enjoy the scenic drive to Kathmandu, taking in spectacular landscapes and views of Nepal’s middle hills. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free for rest, relaxation, or independent exploration. You may also choose to indulge in a well-deserved massage or spa treatment at the hotel.

Highlights: Scenic flight and drive, comfort of luxury accommodation.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: At a Hotel Kathmandu

Day 16 : Sightseeing in Kathmandu

Sightseeing in Kathmandu: After a leisurely breakfast, take a short drive to Swayambhunath, a sacred Buddhist stupa perched on a hillock overlooking the Kathmandu Valley. Well known as the ‘Monkey Temple’ because of the many monkeys inhabiting the site, Swayambhunath, crowned by its golden spire, is the most ancient and mystical of all the holy shrines in the Kathmandu Valley.

Then visit Patan (Lalitpur) – the oldest city in the valley. Patan Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its medieval palace, intricate wood and stone carvings, pagoda-style temples, and golden statues. The Patan Museum, housed inside the former royal palace, is small but considered one of the finest museums in Nepal, showcasing Nepal’s Hindu and Buddhist art in a beautifully restored setting.

Highlights: Monkey Temple, outstanding palace courtyards.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: At a Hotel in Kathmandu

Day 17 : Sightseeing in Kathmandu

Sightseeing in Kathmandu: Begin with a visit to the ancient city of Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site often regarded as the cultural capital of Nepal for its well-preserved traditions and heritage. The square is one of the most captivating architectural showpieces of the Kathmandu Valley, showcasing some of the finest examples of medieval Nepali art and craftsmanship.

Continue to Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world and an important center of Tibetan culture in Nepal. Explore the surrounding monasteries and a traditional thangka painting school to gain deeper insight into Tibetan Buddhist philosophy and way of life.

Highlights: Medieval palaces, old squares, traditional houses, and Tibetan culture.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: At a Hotel in Kathmandu

Day 18 : Departure from Kathmandu

Departure from Kathmandu: Transfer to International Airport for your onward journey.

Meals: Breakfast

Includes & Information

Includes:
1. Round-trip domestic flights: Ramechhap – Lukla – Ramechhap
2. Private land transportation for sightseeing, trek transfers and airport transfers
3. 4 nights at upscall 3-star hotel in Kathmandu on a twin/double sharing with breakfast (single supplement applies)
4. One dinner in Kathmandu on arrival day
5. Guided sightseeing tours of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu on day 16 and 17
6. Entrance fees to UNESCO Heritage Sites
7. 1 night at local lodge in Ramechhap on a twin-sharing during the trek (single supplement applies)
8. 12 nights at selected local lodges on a twin-sharing during the trek (single supplement applies)
9. Three meals a day at local lodges during the trek
10. Professional trekking guide
11. Sherpa assistant above the group of 4 persons
12. Porters (one porter for every two trekkers)
13. Trekkers' registration and entrance fees
14. Insurance coverage for guide and porters
15. First aid kit carried by the guide
16. All currently applicable taxes

Excludes:
1. International airfare
2. Nepal visa fee (currently USD 50 for a 30-day tourist visa)
3. Travel and health insurance (mandatory)
4. Costs arising from flight delays, cancellations, or early return from the trek
5. Expenses related to medical emergencies, or evacuation
6. Beverages and bottled/mineral water (boiled and cooled drinking water is provided during the trek)
7. Personal expenses such as laundry, hot showers (typically at higher-altitude locations), internet, telephone, etc.
8. Tips and gratuities for guides and porters