The trek from Lukla to Everest Base Camp is one of the most exciting and famous treks in the world. It takes you to the base of the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest, also known as Sagarmatha in Nepal.
It’s on the bucket list of every trekker and adventure seeker. And why wouldn’t it be?
From the moment your plane lands at Lukla’s small mountain airport, the adventure begins. You’ll feel the cool mountain air and see beautiful views all around. As you walk, you’ll cross high suspension bridges over rivers, pass colorful prayer flags waving in the wind, and meet the friendly Sherpa people who live in this amazing Everest region.
And since the establishment of Lukla Airport in 1964, this has become the main and most popular trail to Everest Base Camp. If you want to learn more about the detailed itinerary of the Everest Base Camp trek from Lukla, what the trekking route is like, how much it costs, and how to get ready, this guide will help you with all of that and more. So, keep reading this blog.
Review of EBC Trek
Table of Contents
Key Highlights of the Trek
- Your journey begins with a short yet unforgettable scenic 30-minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla Airport.
- From Lukla, the trail winds through the traditional Sherpa villages where you will meet warm-hearted local Sherpas and learn about their rich Sherpa culture.
- Namche Bazaar, the vibrant trading hub of the region, is a highlight, and so is Tengboche Monastery, the largest and most important spiritual center in the Khumbu region.
- First panoramic view of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, etc from Everest View Hotel.
- Witness UNESCO World Heritage sites, Sagarmatha National Park’s diverse flora and fauna. Expect to walk through dense pine forests, cross high suspension bridges, and, if you’re lucky, spot Himalayan wildlife like musk deer or the colorful Danphe.
- Reaching Everest Base Camp itself and the Khumbu Glacier/Icefall.
- A pre-dawn hike to Kala Patthar (5,555 m) offers the best close-up view of Mount Everest, glowing gold as the sun rises.
Trek Duration
The EBC trek typically takes 14 days to complete. This duration covers acclimatization days and the return flights to and from Lukla. Extra: Some trekking companies also offer 12 day Everest Base Camp trek.
Trek Distance
The total distance of Everest Base Camp from Lukla and back is approximately 130 kilometers (about 80 miles). Expect to walk 6 to 8 hours a day, depending on the terrain and your pace.
Trek Difficulty
Wondering if the Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek is difficult? The answer is: yes, it’s moderately challenging. That being said, you don’t need to be a mountaineer, but a decent level of fitness helps.
The main challenge is the high altitude, with Kala Patthar being the highest point at 5,555 meters (18,206 ft). Take it slow, stay hydrated, and listen to your body for safe ascent.
Best Time to Trek
The best times for the Everest Base Camp trek are Autumn (September to November) and Spring (March to May). Spring offers clear skies, mild temperatures, and blooming rhododendrons along the way. Likewise, Autumn brings crisp air, clear visibility, and stable weather.
See what it’s like to trek to Everest Base Camp in October, learn through this blog: Everest Base Camp Trek in October.
Outline Itinerary of Lukla to Everest Base Camp
- Day 1: Short flight to Lukla from Kathmandu and trek to Phakding.
- Day 2: Trek to Namche Bazar from Phakding
- Day 3: Acclimatization day at Namche Bazar and hike to Everest View Hotel.
- Day 4: Trek from Namche Bazar to Tengboche.
- Day 5: Trek from Tengboche to dingboche.
- Day 6: Acclimatization Day at Dingboche.
- Day 7: Trek from Dingboche to Labuche.
- Day 8: Trek from Lobuche to Gorakshep and then to Everest Base Camp (EBC).
- Day 9: Trek from Gorakshep to Kala Patthar and then to Pheriche.
- Day 10: Trek from Pheriche to Tengboche.
- Day 11: Trek fromTengboche to Namche Bazar.
- Day 12: Trek to Phakding from Namche Bazar.
- Day 13: Trek from Phakgding to Lukla.
- Day 14: Fly back to Kathmandu.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Short flight to Lukla from Kathmandu and trek to Phakding
- Altitude: 2,860 meters (9,370 feet)
- Distance: 6.3 km
- Trek Duration: 3–4 hours
The trek to Everest Base Camp from Kathmandu begins with a 30-minute adventurous flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. The flight offers stunning views of the Himalayas and sets the tone for the journey ahead.
Once in Lukla, the trek begins with a relatively easy walk downhill through lush pine forests and small Sherpa villages. After walking for 3-4 hrs, you will reach Phakding. You will spend the night there.
Day 2: Trek to Namche Bazar from Phakding
Altitude: 3,440 meters (11,280 feet)
Distance: 9 km
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
The trail gets steeper and more challenging from today as you head toward Namche Bazaar. You’ll cross several suspension bridges, including the famous Hillary Bridge, and hike alongside the Dudh Koshi River.
The path winds through beautiful forests filled with rhododendron, pine, and magnolia trees. As you near Namche, you’ll begin to see snow-covered peaks in the distance. Namche Bazar is a vibrant town known for its bustling marketplace, traditional museums, and Sherpa culture.
Day 3: Acclimatization day at Namche Bazar and hike to Everest View Hotel
- Altitude: 3,880 meters (12,900 feet)
- Distance: 5.4 km
- Trek Duration: ~4 hours
Today is an acclimatization day, as you are at an elevation of 3440 meters. You’ll hike up to the Everest View Hotel, one of the highest hotels in the world. Here, you will see panoramic views of Everest and the surrounding peaks, such as Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and others.
The rest of the time, you can dedicate to visiting the Sherpa village of Khumjung, where you can learn about local life and visit a cultural museum. Also, don’t forget to get some good rest for tomorrow.
Day 4: Trek from Namche Bazar to Tengboche.
- Altitude: 3,867 meters (12,684 feet)
- Distance: 9.8 km
- Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
On Day 4, you’ll leave Namche Bazaar and head toward Tengboche. The trail includes some steep climbs, and you’ll notice the trees starting to thin out as you gain altitude.
Nonetheless, the view from Tengboche is something you will cherish for a lifetime. At 3867 meters, Tengboche offers panoramic views of various mountains, including Kwangde, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Mount Everest.
Another highlight is to visit Tengboche Monastery. Surrounded by mountains, it’s a peaceful place with colorful artwork, friendly monks, and a calming atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to take a break and soak in the spiritual side of the journey.
Day 5: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche
- Altitude: 4,400 meters (14,300 feet)
- Distance: 12 km
- Trek Duration: ~6 hours
Today’s hike takes you higher than 4,000 meters as you follow a steady uphill path. The trail is mostly rocky and follows the Imja Khola river. As you walk, the views of the surrounding mountains get better.
Eventually, you’ll arrive in Dingboche, a wide open valley surrounded by towering peaks. It’s a peaceful place and perfect for relaxing after the trek. Overnight stay in Dingboche.
Day 6: Acclimatization Day at Dingboche
- Altitude: 5,085 meters (17,018 feet)
- Distance: 3 km
- Hike Duration: 3 hours
Today is a rest day to help your body adjust to the altitude. You’ll go on a short hike, about 3 hours, to a ridge above Dingboche. It’s a gentle but steady climb, and from the top, you’ll see amazing views of mountains like Makalu and Imja Tse.
This hike helps your body adapt to the thinner air. After the hike, return to Dingboche and rest for the day.
Day 7: Trek from Dingboche to Labuche
- Altitude: 4950 meters (16150 feet)
- Distance: 8.6 km
- Trek Duration: ~5 hours
Today’s trek is more challenging due to the altitude. The trail becomes steeper and more rugged.
As you move forward, you’ll pass memorials for climbers who lost their lives on Everest and get your first clear views of Pumori and the Khumbu Glacier. Overnight in Lobuche.
Day 8: Trek from Lobuche to Gorakshep and then to Everest Base Camp (EBC)
- Altitude: 5,364 meters (17,598 feet)
- Distance: 15 km
- Trek Duration: 8 hours
The eighth is the big day. You’ll trek from Lobuche to Gorakshep and continue the hike to the Everest Base Camp trail.
You’ll start early and walk from Lobuche to Gorakshep. After a short break, continue towards Everest Base Camp. The path is rocky and uneven, but reaching the base of Mount Everest is a huge reward.
Spend time enjoying the view and taking photos. Later, head back to Gorakshep for the night.
Day 9: Trek from Gorakshep to Kala Patthar and then to Pheriche
- Altitude: 5,555 meters (18,208 feet).
- Distance: 15 km
- Total Duration: 7 – 8 hours
On the ninth day, you will start early for a sunrise hike to Kala Patthar, the best place to see Everest up close and neighboring peaks. Sunrise over the Himalayas from here is breathtaking.
After enjoying the view, descend through alpine meadows to the village of Pheriche. Overnight stay in Pheriche.
Day 10: Trek from Pheriche to Tengboche
- Altitude: 3,867 meters (12,684 feet)
- Distance: 9 km
- Trek Duration: 5 – 6 hours
Today’s trek is mostly downhill, which makes it less difficult. You’ll follow a scenic path back to Tengboche. Once there, you can revisit the famous monastery and take in the fantastic views of Everest and Ama Dablam once more. Overnight stay in Tengboche.
Day 11: Trek from Tengboche to Namche Bazar
- Altitude: 3,440 meters (11,280 feet)
- Distance: 9.8 km
- Trek Duration: ~5 hours
On day 11, you will retrace your steps through forests and river crossings to return to the bustling town of Namche Bazaar. Once in Namche Bazaar, it’s time to celebrate. Enjoy a hot shower, relax in a teahouse, or explore the lively shops and cafes. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
Day 12: Trek to Phakding from Namche Bazar
- Altitude: 2,860 meters (9,370 feet)
- Distance: 9 km
- Trek Duration: ~5 hours
As you continue descending to a lower elevation, you’ll walk through forests and cross suspension bridges again. The air becomes warmer and easier to breathe. You’ll reach the peaceful riverside village of Phakding, where you can unwind for the night.
Day 13: Trek from Phakgding to Lukla
- Altitude: 2,860 meters (9,370 feet)
- Distance: 6.3 km
- Trek Duration: 3 hours
Day 13 is your final trekking day. The trail descends through pine forests and past small villages. With the hard part over, enjoy the views and the fresh mountain air.
You’ll return to Lukla, where your journey began. Overnight in Lukla.
Day 14: Fly back to Kathmandu
Flight Duration: ~30 minutes
Book a short flight back to Kathmandu, Nepal. Weather conditions in Lukla can sometimes delay Lukla flights, so it’s wise to have a flexible travel plan. Once back in the city, you can rest or explore more of what Kathmandu has to offer.
Note: You can also opt for a 12-day itinerary trek to EBC if you are short on time, well-prepared, and in good shape. For a safe and unforgettable experience, trust the experts, Action Nepal Treks, with over 15 years of trekking excellence and top-rated local guides. You can also book the Everest Base Camp Trek with a Heli Tour with us.
Everest Base Camp Trek
Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour
Everest Base Camp Trek with Heli Tour
Everest View Trek
Essential Preparation for Your EBC Trek
Consider these tips to prepare effectively for the Everest Base Camp trek
- Follow a proper acclimatization plan for the Everest Base Camp. Spend at least 2 nights in Namche Bazaar (3,440m) and Dingboche (4,400m) to adjust safely to the altitude.
- Start EBC trek training at least 3–6 months in advance. Focus on hiking, hill climbs, and stair workouts to build endurance and leg strength.
- Train with a weighted backpack (6–12 kg) to mimic actual trekking conditions.
- Select high-quality trekking boots for your Everest Base Camp adventure.
- Pack the right gear for high-altitude trekking. Essentials include a down jacket, a -15°C sleeping bag, base layers, trekking poles, gloves, UV-protected sunglasses, and a hydration system.
- Drink 4–5 liters of water per day. Hydration is critical at high altitudes to avoid Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
- Eat high-energy meals and avoid alcohol.
- Pick the best time to trek to Everest Base Camp. Go during peak seasons: March–May or September–November for stable weather and clear views.
- Trek with a certified, experienced trekking company.
- You can hire a porter to help with carrying your stuff.
Permits Required for Trek to Everest Base Camp
You need two essential permits to access the gateway to Everest Base Camp. These include:
- Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit: You can obtain this at the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or purchase it at the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Gate in Monjo. It costs NPR 1500 for SAARC citizens and NPR 3000 for foreigners. You must present a valid passport to obtain this permit.
- Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Municipality Entry Permit/ Khumbu Trekking Permit: This permit was introduced following the implementation of Nepal’s decentralized system and eradicate the need for the TIMS Card. It became mandatory starting 1 October 2018. You can obtain this at the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Office in Lukla. It costs NPR 2000 for the first four weeks.
Lukla to Everest Base Camp Trek Cost
The Everest Base Camp Trek from Lukla costs between $1,200 and $4000 per person. The cost can vary depending on the service level and the trekking business.
A basic Everest Base Camp trek package with domestic flights, permits, a guide, and a porter usually costs about $1,400. If you want more comfort, like better accommodations or a helicopter return, the price can go up to $2,500–$4,000.
Please note that the package doesn’t include expenses for travel insurance, international flight tickets, extra stay in Kathmandu, etc.
Plan Your Perfect Everest Base Camp Trek with Action Nepal Treks
Looking for a trusted team to guide your trek from Lukla to Everest Base Camp? Action Nepal Treks has over 15 years of experience leading treks with friendly local guides and porters who know the trails inside out.
We offer a range of Everest Base Camp (EBC) trekking packages to match your time, pace, and travel style:
- 14 Days Everest Base Camp Trek – the classic experience to the base of Mount Everest.
- 10 Days EBC Trek – shorter but still full of amazing views.
- Short EBC Trek (10 Days) – great if you’re short on time.
- Everest View Trek (5 Days) – perfect for stunning views without going all the way to base camp.
- Everest Chola Pass Trek (15 Days) – includes beautiful high mountain passes.
- EBC Trek with Heli Tour (10 Days) – hike up, then enjoy a scenic helicopter ride back.
- Everest Three High Passes Trek (16 Days) – for those who want a more challenging adventure.
From permits and flights to accommodation and meals, we take care of everything, so you can focus on the trek and enjoy the journey.
Ready to start your Everest adventure?
Book Your Trek with Action Nepal Treks
