Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek or the High Himalayan Mountain Range, the Everest region lies on the border between Nepal and Tibet. Mt. Everest can be beheld in splendor from this grand sentinel-like location at the world’s highest peak, Everest Base Camp.
Almost everyone in the world has heard of this place of lore. And equally as many dreams of someday ascending through the towering pines, crossing roaring rivers, and passing by isolated monasteries to visit and explore the base of the most incredible mountain in the world. Those with an adventurous heart will feel their heart beat a little louder whenever they think of trekking to Everest Base Camp. Maybe you have this dream? Perhaps you’re ready to make it a reality.
The adventure begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. This will in itself make you feel like an explorer of old. Leaving behind the intensity of Kathmandu, you quickly escape to a world of snow, rock, and deep green valleys. And as you approach the Lukla airstrip, your excitement continues growing because you know this is where you will begin your trek.
The Lukla airstrip will not disappoint even the most seasoned traveler. It clings tightly to the side of the mountain as the skills of the seasoned pilot are revealed, landing perfectly and gliding to a stop in front of the town of Lukla. Already high enough to be in the clouds at times, you start to see shimmering peaks far above and deep valleys plummeting below.
Along your trek, you will come to the famous Namche Bazaar. This is where you will leave behind the forested valleys for good and enter the Khumbu region. You will also join the Sagarmatha National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Namche Bazaar is the unofficial capital of Khumbu, and it is the land of the Sherpa people.
The Sherpas are Tibetan, which is evident in their delicious food, art, culture, and language. Try local foods like Thukpa (a Tibetan noodle soup). This warming soup is excellent on a cold day. Or Rigi Kur (pancake made with potato), topped with female yak butter or cheese. The Sherpa trading market on Saturdays is a must-see for small souvenirs, and the Tibetan ancient system, Museum showcases, which Medicine still enjoys widespread popularity.
You will visit a famous monastery called Tengboche Monastery in a small village along your trek. Typical of this area is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery, where a Rinpoche (an extraordinary lama or monk) is known to bestow blessings on pilgrims and trekkers alike who visit Chomolungma (Mt. Everest in Tibetan).
It is the largest monastery in the Khumbu region and integral to the religion of the Sherpa people, where they congregate for religious festivals, particularly Mani Rimdu.
During this festival, lamas or monks dance in the courtyard between October and November amid clashing cymbals and undulating horns. This festival lasts three days as bonfires fueled by cypress and yak butter burn throughout the night.
The monastery is situated in a village of the same name, and here, you will get incredible views of Ama Dablam towering high above the monastery and the town. Both Lhotse and Mount Everest can be seen in full view as well.
Kalapatthar is a must-do in your quest for Everest Base Camp. Along the trek, it is customary to stay in Gorakshep. You can climb a small knoll from this outpost called Kalapatthar, which means black rock in Nepalese.
Although a short hike, most people don’t give it due respect and quickly try to climb to the top. All trekkers at Gorak Shep are still acclimatizing and should take their time with extra hiking. But the effort is worth it! You will see Mt Everest from the summit, along with Nuptse, Changtse, and Lhotse. Could you make sure you leave Gorak Shep early enough in the morning to watch the sunrise behind Everest?
The trek has its triumphant climax in the hike to EBC (Everest Base Camp). It is a strenuous climb through the glacial moraines to Everest Base Camp; however, standing at the foot of the mighty Everest and having the skyline filled with snow-capped Himalayas is the experience of a lifetime.
Everest Base Camp is the destination, but for others, it is the starting point of a more remarkable journey of conquering the highest peak in the world. During April and May, EBC is a hive of activity as climbers and guides attempt to summit the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest.
Our company, My Everest Trip, will help you achieve your lifelong dream of visiting this mythical realm full of beauty and splendor. Our years as a reputable company will ensure a seamless experience, and our trips are all designed and staffed by seasoned professionals. Bring your adventure and curiosity for the unknown; we will do the rest!
Mt. Everest lies between Nepal and Tibet. Everest Base Camp offers to behold the splendor of mountain views and Sherpa culture with Everest Base Camp and others.
