Everest Base Camp

An epic journey deep into the heart of the Himalayas, stirring both soul and spirit.

Trip Overview

Price From

From $2000.00

Duration

17N/18D

Best Season

Mar, Apr, May, Sep, Oct, Nov

Difficulty

Strenuous

One of the most iconic journeys on Earth, the Everest Base Camp Trek takes you deep into the heart of the Himalayas, stirring both soul and spirit.

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.

The following are a few things we take into consideration for the EBC trek:

Who Can Join?

You don’t need prior trekking experience – just a reasonable level of fitness and the ability to walk 5–6 hours a day with a light daypack. Porters will carry your duffel bags, so you only need to carry a light daypack with the essentials you'll need during the day's hike. With a slow and 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 (11,300 ft), instead of the usual two, giving your body ample time to adjust to the altitude. During these acclimatization days, you can enjoy exploring Namche Bazaar – the trekkers’ hub, and take a scenic day hike to Thamo village, home to a peaceful nunnery. 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

Helicopter flights to and from Lukla are available. Prices are calculated based on 5 passengers, as each helicopter accommodates 5 people. If fewer than 5 people are available for the helicopter, the cost equivalent to 5 passengers must be shared among the available passengers.

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 the gap that sometimes exists between expectations and reality – that’s why we are committed to exceeding your expectations with personalized service, meticulous planning, and constant attention to detail.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is mandatory for this trek. Your policy should cover emergency medical care, trip interruptions or cancellations, evacuation, and baggage loss. There are several reputable insurance providers in the U.S. suitable for this trip, such as World Nomads, Travelex, Allianz, Travel Guard, Travel Insured International, and Seven Corners, among others. We will keep a copy of your insurance and share it with the relevant authorities if needed during your journey.

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 

  • Included

    • Round-trip domestic flights: Ramechhap LuklaRamechhap
    • Private land transportation for sightseeing, trek transfers and airport transfers
    • 4 nights at 5-star hotel in Kathmandu on a twin/double sharing with breakfast (single supplement applies)
    • One dinner in Kathmandu on arrival day
    • Guided sightseeing tours of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu on day 16 and 17
    • Entrance fees to UNESCO Heritage Sites
    • 1 night at local lodge in Ramechhap on a twin-sharing during the trek (single supplement applies)
    • 12 nights at selected local lodges on a twin-sharing during the trek (single supplement applies)
    • Three meals a day at local lodges during the trek
    • Professional trekking guide
    • Sherpa assistant above the group of 4 persons
    • Porters (one porter for every two trekkers)
    • Trekkers' registration and entrance fees
    • Insurance coverage for guide and porters
    • First aid kit carried by the guide
    • All currently applicable taxes
  • Not Included

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

    𝗥𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲: We recommend that you purchase travel and medical insurance independently, based on your preference and convenience. It can be easily arranged online, and there are several reputable US-based providers suitable for this trip, including Travelex, Allianz, Travel Guard, World Nomads, Travel Insured International, Seven Corners, and WorldTrips, among others.

    We kindly request a copy of your insurance policy, which we will keep on file and provide to the relevant authorities if required during your journey.

Day 01 – Arrive in Kathmandu (4,430 ft): 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: Aloft Kathmandu

Day 02 – 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 (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

Day 04 – 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 Day in 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 Day in 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 Deboche (12,500 ft) – 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 (14,470 ft) – 7 miles / 5 hours: Pass through Pangboche, the highest year-round Sherpa settlement, where ancient monasteries and traditional stone houses adorned with colorful prayer flags sit against a backdrop of towering peaks. As you leave the village, notice the gradual change in vegetation: forests give way to an alpine landscape, with stone walls protecting terraced barley and potato fields. Cross the Imja River and continue the climb to Dingboche, a broad, picturesque valley offering stunning views of towering peaks.

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

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

Day 09 – Acclimatization Day in Dingboche: After breakfast, set out for a short hike to a ridge above Dingboche or continue to Chhukung (15,520 ft) for even more spectacular views of the surrounding peaks. The roundtrip hike to Chhukung takes about 4–5 hours. Along the trail, you will pass scattered Sherpa settlements, mani walls, and small chortens, while the landscape gradually transitions from cultivated fields to alpine meadows. Chhukung itself is a quiet Sherpa village, offering stunning 360-degree panoramic views of major peaks, making it an ideal spot to rest and take in the grandeur of the Khumbu region before returning to Dingboche.

Highlights: Himalayan panoramas, acclimatization hikes. 

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

Day 10 – Trek to Lobuche (16,175 ft) – 4.5 miles / 5 hours: The trail from Dingboche climbs a ridge, passing chortens (Buddhist shrines), before descending to Thukla – a broad terrace overlooking the Khumbu Khola valley. From Thukla, the trail steeply ascends onto the terminal moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. At the Thukla pass, with breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, you will find a line of memorials honoring climbers who lost their lives on Everest. From the memorial, the route descends slightly and follows the moraine of the Khumbu Glacier, leading to Lobuche. 

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

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

Day 11 – Trek to Everest Base Camp (17,550 ft) and Return to Gorakshep (16,930 ft) – 10 miles / 8 hours: Today is both the most challenging and the most rewarding day of your trek. From Lobuche, the trail climbs steadily for about two hours to reach Gorak Shep, where sweeping views of the world’s highest peaks greet you. After a brief rest, continue onward to the legendary Everest Base Camp – a round-trip of approximately five hours from Gorak Shep. Enjoy the blissful moment and feel the exhilaration of standing at the base of Mt. Everest! After soaking in the magic of Everest Base Camp, return to Gorak Shep for an overnight stay amid the dramatic Himalayan scenery. 

Highlights: Everest Base Camp, Khumbu Icefall.

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

Day 12 – Climb to Kala Patthar (18,190 ft), Trek to Pheriche (14,340 ft) – 9 miles / 8 hours: This is another remarkable and important day of the trek. After an early breakfast, make the steep ascent to Kala Patthar (18,190 ft), a legendary viewpoint renowned for its breathtaking mountain panorama. From here, the world’s highest peak, Mt. Everest, stands in striking proximity, barely 6 miles away, appearing close enough to touch. The summit of Kala Patthar rewards you with a 360-degree view of the Himalayan giants, including Nuptse, Pumori, Lhotse, and Changtse, along with sweeping vistas of the Khumbu Glacier snaking far below.

After experiencing this unforgettable sight, descend back to Gorak Shep, and then retrace your steps down the trail. Pass through Lobuche and the memorials at Thukla Pass, before reaching Pheriche, a tranquil village set in a broad valley surrounded by rugged peaks. Here you can enjoy a well-earned rest after one of the most exhilarating days of the trek.

Highlights: Unrivaled panoramic views.

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

Day 13 – Trek to Namche Bazaar – 14 miles / 8 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.

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

Day 14 – Trek to Lukla – 11.5 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.

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

Day 15 – 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: Aloft Kathmandu

Day 16 – 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: Aloft Kathmandu

Day 17 – 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: Aloft Kathmandu

Day 18 – Departure from Kathmandu: Transfer to International Airport for your onward journey. 

Meals: Breakfast