Everest Base Camp Trek

Your journey starts with a short flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. It’s a thrilling 30-minute trip with stunning views of the Himalayas. If departing from Manthali, the drive takes 3 to 4 hours, followed by a 20-minute flight to Lukla. A flight of 138 kilometers from Kathmandu (or 74 from Manthali) will land you at the Lukla airstrip. It’s at 2,860 meters (9,370 feet). It’s one of the world’s most exciting airports.

Upon arrival in Lukla, you’ll meet your trekking crew and start your Trek towards Phakding. The trail then descends through the Dudh Koshi Valley. It passes small villages, forests, and rice fields. It also falls annually due to landslides. The trekking distance is moderated at 6 km and about 3 hours.

When trekking, you must cross several suspension bridges with blue prayer flags. By late afternoon, you get to your first teahouse destination for the day, Phakding village, at an elevation of 2650m (8690ft). Here, we also use a comfortable lodge with a private attached bathroom. Today, you get your first glimpse of the Everest region. All three meals, breakfast, lunch, and dinner, will be taken; therefore, it is ideal that the hiker rest after the first day on the trail.

Today, you’ll trek to Namche Bazaar from Phading, covering 9 kilometers (5.7 miles) over 6 to 7 hours. The trail is easy to moderate. It is a mix of flat and gradual uphill sections. This allows one to enjoy the untouched views of the mountains and explore Sherpa culture.

Namche Bazaar is in the Khumbu region at 3,440 meters (11,280 feet). It is reached after a four-day trek. This beautiful town is a vibrant hub for trekkers in a natural bowl. You can see Sherpa culture and stunning mountain views.

You will spend the next two nights in a simple room with a bath at the lodge. You may now explore the town’s shops, cafes, and markets. As the lodge serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, today is free for leisure and prep for tomorrow. It is usually for acclimatization and exploring the lovely town of Namche Bazaar.

On the third day of the Trek, you will focus on acclimatization, a critical trek stage since you will rise in the altitudes. You’ll start with a hike to the Everest View Hotel at 3,880 meters (12,900 feet). This Trek covers 5.4 kilometers or 3.4 miles in distance and about 4 hours trip. The trail offers a great view of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. It’s the best spot for photographers and those testing their fitness.

After soaking in the views, you’ll hike to Hidden Valley in Khumjung for lunch. This charming village, rich in Sherpa culture, offers a chance to explore traditional homes and local lifestyles. Following your visit, you’ll retrace your steps back to Namche Bazaar. The rest of the day is yours to unwind, explore the vibrant town, or rest at your lodge with an attached bathroom. With all meals provided, breakfast, lunch, and dinner, you can enjoy a well-deserved break while preparing for the Trek ahead.

On Day 4, you’ll trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche, covering a distance of 9.8 kilometers (5.7 miles) over 6 to 7 hours. The day begins with a descent from Namche Bazaar. Then, a pleasant walk through lush pine forests. Finally, we cross the Dudh Koshi River via a suspension bridge. The trail climbs steadily. It offers views of the Himalayas and the village of Phunki Thanga.

At 3,867 meters (12,684 feet), Tengboche offers stunning views of Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, and other peaks. It’s a serene place. Tengboche’s highlight is its famed monastery. It’s one of the most important in the Khumbu region. It’s known for its vibrant murals and Tibetan Buddhist ceremonies.

After settling into your lodge, explore the monastery. Enjoy the calm of this high-altitude village. We will provide breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This will let you relax and adjust to the altitude while enjoying the views.

Today, you’ll trek from Tengboche to Dingboche, covering a distance of 12 kilometers (7.55 miles) in about 6 hours. It involves trekking down from Tengboche. Then, cross the Imja Khola River. Finally, climb a steep hill through forest and meadow. You’ll find a vast valley at Dingboche, 4,400 meters (14,300 feet). Towering mountains, including Lhotse and Ama Dablam, surround it.

Dingboche is a charming village known for its unique stone-walled fields and the stunning vistas it offers. After settling into your lodge, you can take the rest of the day to relax and acclimate to the altitude. Enjoy all meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, at the lodge. Soak in the serene environment and prepare for the higher altitudes of the coming days.

This day is dedicated to acclimatization in Dingboche, a crucial step to prepare your body for higher altitudes. You’ll embark on a short yet rewarding hike covering about 3 kilometers, which will take approximately 3 hours. The Trek will take you to the ridge above Dingboche, where you’ll reach an elevation of 5,085 meters (17,018 feet). 

This acclimatization hike offers stunning views of Makalu, the Imja Tse, and other snow-capped peaks. It will also help the body adapt to the new climate. Hike to Dingboche and spend the rest of the day resting as the legs recover from hiking. It is a brilliant place to relax and enjoy the scenery.

All the meals, breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be taken at the lodge, where you will be well accommodated. This is the most important day to ensure you are physically ready for the next day, which will be more challenging hikes.

On the seventh day, you will trek from Dingboche to Lobuche, 8.6 kilometers (5. 3 miles) for the next 5 hours. The trail starts gently climbing the hillside. It offers a breathtaking view of the mountains, including the Taboche peaks and Cholatse. The trip causes the vegetation to thin and the terrain to steepen. This may be due to the higher elevation and proximity to the Khumbu Glacier.

Naturally, the Trek goes uphill, taking you to the poignant but beautiful place of Thukla Pass. Here, you will come across the memorial of climbers who lost their lives in the Everest region. The trail gets easier as you walk in. You have a small break at the pass before you descend to the mountain village of Lobuche at 4950 meters (16150 feet). Upon arrival in Lobuche, you’ll go into your lodge and spend the night. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be provided, giving you time to rest and prepare for the exciting Trek to Everest Base Camp in the days ahead.

Today, you’ll trek from Lobuche to Gorakshep on a 15-kilometer (9.3 miles) and then continue to Everest Base Camp (5,364m/17,598ft). The day begins with a gradual ascent along the Khumbu Glacier, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks. After a few hours, you’ll be at Gorakshep (5,190m/17,100ft), resting and having lunch before setting off for the final leg to Everest Base Camp.

The Trek from Gorakshep to EBC is arduous. It involves rocky terrain and glacial debris. But, the joy of reaching the base camp is immense. Surrounded by the world’s peaks, this moment is truly unforgettable. After spending time at Everest Base Camp, you’ll go to Gorakshep for the night. All meals, breakfast, lunch, and dinner, are provided. You’ll find a lodge in Gorakshep, resting after a day of incredible accomplishments.

On Day 9, you’ll trek from Gorakshep to Kala Patthar, the highest point of your journey at 5,555 meters (18,208 feet). The trekking to the Kala Patthar is tiring but worth it because it provides the best view of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and many other peaks. After soaking in the sunrise and taking photos, it will be time to descend to Gorakshep for breakfast.

Following breakfast, you go down to Pheriche, covering a total distance of 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) over 7 to 8 hours. The trail descends through the rocky and rugged terrain of the Khumbu Valley, passing by memorials and yak pastures. As you descend to Pheriche, at 4,280 meters (14,050 feet), the air has more oxygen. It’s a more comfortable, relaxing stop for the night. You’ll end the night in a lodge with all meals, breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided, allowing you to rest after a long and eventful day.

Like most days on the Mount Everest Base Camp Trek, you will be climbing from one village to another on Day 10, from Pheriche to Tengboche, a distance of 9 km (5. 5 miles), taking 5  to 6 hours. The trail starts relatively quickly with steep descents down the alpine pastures and meadows by lovely villages and dense rhododendrons. While on the Trek, you will find yourself surrounded by the different peaks of the mountain, including the profiled Ama Dablam.

Today’s walk resumes to Tengboche with a gradual ascent after seeing the largest monastery in the Khumbu, Tengboche Monastery. This unique place provides the best views of Mount Everest and other mountains. If you have booked your stay at one of the recommended lodges, you will have the evening to visit the monastery. Lunch and dinner are included each day, and breakfast is included; accommodations are in a comfortable lodge in Tengboche.

On Day 11, you’ll trek from Tengbovhe to Namche Bazaar, covering 9.8 kilometers (5.7 miles) in about 5 hours. The trail starts with a steep decline through dense rhododendrons and pine woods, where one might see a few Himalayan pheasants or a blue bull. You’ll pass through small villages and cross suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River as you go down.

The trail then gradually ascends towards Namche Bazaar, where you’ll once again be surprised by the lively atmosphere of this bustling Sherpa town. Upon arrival, you can relax in the comfort of your lodge, which offers a private attached bathroom. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be provided, allowing you to unwind and enjoy your evening in Namche Bazaar.

On Day 12, you’ll trek to Phakding from Namche Bazaar, covering a distance of 9 kilometers (5.7 miles) in approximately 5 hours. The trail descends steadily, retracing your steps through dense pine and rhododendron forests. You’ll cross several suspension bridges. You’ll traverse the Dudh Koshi River, passing by familiar villages and mani stones along the way.

When walking at lower heights, the air is warmer and has more oxygen, making hiking and trekking more comfy. You’ll arrive in Phakding, situated at  2,640 meters (8,540 feet), and stay in a lodge with an attached bathroom for the night. All meals, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided, giving you time to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings as you near the end of your Trek.

On Day 13, you’ll trek from Phakding to Lukla, covering 6.3 kilometers (3.9 miles) in about 3 hours. The trail gently ascends through the forested Dudh Koshi valley, passing through small Sherpa villages and crossing a few final suspension bridges.

As you approach Lukla, you’ll have a chance to reflect on your incredible journey to Everest Base Camp. Once in Lukla, you’ll settle into your lodge, get a private attached bathroom, and spend your last night in the mountains. All meals, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided, giving you a chance to relax and celebrate the completion of your Trek.

You’ll take a morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu on your final day. The 30-minute flight offers a last glimpse of the Himalayan peaks as you return to the bustling city. With a flight distance of 138 kilometers to Kathmandu, or 74 kilometers if flying to Manthali, you’ll be back in the city’s warmth within a short time.

Once in Kathmandu, you’ll have the rest of the day to relax and reflect on your incredible journey to Everest Base Camp. Breakfast is provided, and you’ll have the opportunity to explore the city or unwind after your Trek.