Everest Base Camp Trek
The Everest Base Camp trek is one of the most iconic treks in the world, taking you to the foot of Mount Everest (8,848.86m) through the legendary Khumbu region of Nepal, home of the Sherpa people.
Trek Overview
Classic EBC Trek Itinerary
| Day | Route | Altitude | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fly Kathmandu to Lukla, trek to Phakding | 2,652m | 3-4 hrs |
| 2 | Phakding to Namche Bazaar | 3,440m | 5-6 hrs |
| 3 | Acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar | 3,440m | Day hike |
| 4 | Namche Bazaar to Tengboche | 3,860m | 5-6 hrs |
| 5 | Tengboche to Dingboche | 4,410m | 5-6 hrs |
| 6 | Acclimatization day in Dingboche | 4,410m | Day hike |
| 7 | Dingboche to Lobuche | 4,940m | 4-5 hrs |
| 8 | Lobuche to Gorak Shep, visit EBC | 5,164m/5,364m | 6-7 hrs |
| 9 | Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar, descend to Pheriche | 5,545m/4,280m | 7-8 hrs |
| 10 | Pheriche to Namche Bazaar | 3,440m | 6-7 hrs |
| 11 | Namche Bazaar to Lukla | 2,860m | 6-7 hrs |
| 12 | Fly Lukla to Kathmandu | 1,400m | Flight |
Key Highlights
- Everest Base Camp (5,364m) - The base for Everest expeditions with views of the Khumbu Icefall
- Kala Patthar (5,545m) - Best viewpoint for Mount Everest panorama
- Namche Bazaar - Gateway to Everest, Sherpa capital with markets and museums
- Tengboche Monastery - Largest Buddhist monastery in the Khumbu region
- Sherpa Culture - Experience the unique culture of the legendary Sherpa people
Permits Required
- Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit - NPR 3,000 (foreigners)
- Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entry Permit - NPR 2,000
- TIMS Card - Trekkers' Information Management System
Essential Information
Altitude & Acclimatization
The trek reaches over 5,000m, making proper acclimatization crucial. The itinerary includes rest days at Namche Bazaar and Dingboche to help your body adjust. Signs of altitude sickness include headache, nausea, and shortness of breath.
What to Pack
- Warm layers (down jacket essential)
- Good quality hiking boots
- Sleeping bag rated to -20°C
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- First aid kit with altitude sickness medication
Best Time to Trek
Autumn (Sep-Nov): Best visibility, stable weather, moderate temperatures
Spring (Mar-May): Good conditions, rhododendrons bloom at lower elevations
Winter (Dec-Feb): Very cold at high altitude, fewer trekkers
Getting There
Most treks start with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (Tenzing-Hillary Airport). The 35-minute flight offers stunning Himalayan views. Alternative routes include driving to Phaplu or Salleri and walking to Lukla.