Everest Base Camp Trek

Yes, you can do the Everest trek with no experience. To complete the trek as a beginner-level trekker, you have to understand the trek and its challenges. They must have a proper understanding of altitude, distance, and duration, as well as the physical and mental preparations necessary, and the altitude-related risks. For safety measures, beginners should consider taking a guided trek and choose an itinerary that includes proper acclimatization. Proper packing, including the right pair of shoes, clothing, and trek gear, as well as prioritizing health essentials like a first-aid kit and water purification tablets, is also crucial for beginners.

Not preparing thoroughly can make the journey more difficult for novice trekkers. They may not be able to complete the trip successfully. While you may have the physical endurance, lacking confidence or not being mindful of your bodily needs, such as acclimatization, hydration, rest, and sleep, can hinder your overall journey. Being prepared is essential, especially for beginners. Not being underconfident or overconfident about your potential as a trekker is just as important. Also, do not underestimate the challenges of the Himalayas.

The adventurous trail, breathtaking panoramas, cultural richness, and the sense of achievement make the Everest Trek worth it. There is a reason the trek is considered one of the iconic and classic treks in Nepal. First of all, you will be following the footsteps of Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa to the base camp, the first people to reach the summit of Mount Everest. You will be aiming to reach the foot of the world’s tallest mountain, Mount Everest, when you’re on this journey.

Similarly, you will have the opportunity to interact with the guardians of the Himalayas, the Sherpa people, during the journey. The Sherpa people are professional mountaineers with excellent genetics that enable them to endure the harsh Himalayan climate. Moreover, they are very hospitable and make excellent guides and porters. You will gain insight into their culture and also take a closer look at their mountainous lifestyle.

The trek undoubtedly offers marvelous views of Everest and several other towering mountain peaks. The glacial beauty you will see along the way is just as fascinating. You will witness the exquisite beauty of the Khumbu Glacier and the Khumbu Icefall. The diverse and demanding trail will test you, but also offers you raw Himalayan adventure. You will also get to observe the diverse flora and fauna of the Sagarmatha National Park.

Besides this, you can visit the world’s tallest post office or even the highest bakery in the world. Further, you will even be able to dig some information about the mystical creature, the Yeti. The Sherpas may have some stories to share with you about this abominable creature and show you its scalp at Khumjung Monastery. Last but not least, you’ll be on the trek where you push your boundaries and disconnect from the rest of the world. It is an extraordinary journey that will remain unforgettable throughout your life.

You Can Also Check: Best Things To Do During The Everest Base Camp Trek

You will encounter various types of weather throughout the year, depending on the seasons. Additionally, you will discover variations in weather from day to day within the same season. During springtime, the temperature ranges between 10°C and 20°C (50°F and 68°F) in the lower altitudes and -10°C (14°F) in the higher altitudes.

You will get to see the bloom of the season along the Rhododendron forests and can enjoy calm skies most days. In autumn, you can expect the temperature to be 12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F) during the lower regions and -10°C (14°F) at the higher altitudes. Post-monsoon clarity does miracles for the surroundings during autumn!

Summertime weather can be extreme. With a temperature of 25°C (77°F) in the lower altitudes and 5°C (41°F) in the higher altitudes, you may even be at risk of facing rainfall as you trek. The possibility of delays during the trek is high. There may be just as many leeches on your trails that are waiting to feast on your blood.

The winter season, likewise, experiences its lowest daytime temperature of 5°C (41°F) in lower elevations, with the temperature dropping to –4°C to –10 °C (24.8°F to 14°F) at night in these areas. In higher-altitude regions, it can drop as low as -20°C (-4°F). Snow-covered trails are more likely due to the chilliness, icefall, and snowfall.

Several factors should be considered before taking the Lukla flight. But we don’t mean to scare you! You will get the most fantastic view of the Himalayas during this flight, and the transition from busy urban areas to one of the most remote places in Nepal within 25 to 30 minutes can seem magical.

The Lukla airport is also known as the Tenzing-Hillary airport because it was built at the initiative of the first Mount Everest summiteer, Edmund Hilary. The Lukla airport is also the only airport in the Everest region. Your flight allows for a maximum of 10 kg of checked luggage per person and 5 kg of hand luggage.

The flight is likely to be cancelled due to weather conditions, regardless of the season, but especially during the monsoon season. During the monsoon, the likelihood of flight delays or cancellations due to adverse weather conditions and the associated risks is significantly increased. Furthermore, you may encounter air traffic congestion for the Lukla flight during peak seasons, which can cause further delays and a shortage of tickets. Further, you can take a helicopter ride from Kathmandu to Everest Base Camp directly and vice versa within a single day.

The 12 Days Everest Base Camp Trek Cost range between USD 1100 and USD 3,500. Several factors influence the price of trekking to Everest Base Camp, including the chosen season. The Luxury Everest Base Camp trek offers suitable accommodation, meals, and a range of unexpected experiences. This figure includes the Cost of guides, porters, and entrance permits while trekking in the region. Trip costs include accommodation, meals, cross-country flights, ground transportation, and other essentials.

The cost of trekking with an international trekking operator ranges between USD 1,700 and USD 2,500. Meanwhile, the cost of Local Trekking ranges between USD 1,100 and USD 1700. It is often more cost-effective and beneficial to hire a local operator, as they offer better value for money and a more authentic experience. The trek cost can vary depending on the itinerary duration and services included. If you add services not included in the standard package, the price will change accordingly.

Flight and Helicopter Options to Lukla

We offer both regular flights and shared helicopter services from Kathmandu to Lukla.

Flight (One Way):

• Kathmandu → Lukla: USD 225 per person

Shared Helicopter (One Way):

• Kathmandu → Lukla: USD 500–600 per person
  (Price may vary depending on weather conditions)

The Everest region is full of wholesome and immersive trekking destinations. Adding a destination or two to your journey will make your trip all the more memorable. The Sherpa people, who dominate these trekking destinations, will ensure that your journey is comfortable, as they also make a living from mountaineering and the hospitality industry in their homeland. The following are some of the trips you can make around EBC as an addition or alternative:

Gokyo Lake Trek

The Gokyo Lake Trek is a popular trek that stands out as a distinct option in the Everest region. Compared to the EBC trek, most trekkers can complete this as it requires only a basic level of physical fitness.

With a less challenging route, the Gokyo Lake trek offers a captivating journey in the lower parts of the Everest Base Camp. The trail winds through Sherpa villages, lush valleys, the Gokyo Lakes, and the Cho La Pass, finally leading to Gokyo Ri.

Three Passes Trek

For a much more challenging adventure in the Everest region, the Three Passes Trek is an excellent choice. This trek leads to Everest Base Camp, and then you will cross three high mountain passes: Renjo La Pass (5,340 m), Cho La Pass (5,420 m), and Kongma La Pass (5,535 m).

The Three Passes Trek offers an unparalleled trekking experience by combining the iconic Everest Base Camp route with the thrill of crossing three high-altitude passes.

Pikey Peak Trek

The Pikey Peak trek is another rewarding route in the Everest region. It offers a wonderful and unique experience of ascending the popular Pikey Peak, which sits at an altitude of 4065m. Beginning at Bhandar, the trek ends at the village of Phaplu.

Winding through several small villages, including Namkhel and Nagur, among others, the Pikey Peak trek is a short yet exciting journey in the Himalayas. As part of the Everest region, the summit offers a panoramic view of Everest and other Himalayan giants.

Arun Valley Trek

Another simple trek in the Everest region is the Arun Valley trek, which leads to the beautiful Lukla village and meanders through the Arun River and the Makalu Barun National Park.

The valley lies between Everest and Makalu, lending it a unique character. It offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and a diverse array of flora and fauna. Ending at Lukla, the Arun Valley trek connects the route that leads to Everest Base Camp, providing trekkers with an option to summit, making the journey more interesting.

Everest Base Camp Trek is relatively more challenging than the Annapurna Base Trek. The involvement of high altitude, long day hikes, and diverse terrain makes the EBC trek harder than the ABC trek. Although both treks require good physical and mental fitness, trekking to EBC demands more preparation, fitness, and endurance. ​The remoteness of the Everest Base Camp trek adds another layer of difficulty. You will be trekking in a region with limited access to facilities, such as hospitals, making planning well and carrying the necessary supplies essential.

In comparison, the Annapurna Base Camp trek offers easier access to roads and villages, which can be helpful in emergencies. EBC also involves a longer duration, typically 12-16 days, while ABC can be completed in 7-10 days. The cultural experience in both regions is rich, but the EBC trek requires more time, effort, and acclimatization. ABC might be a better choice if you are looking for a less demanding trek, while EBC is ideal if you seek a more adventurous and challenging journey.

While you cannot fly directly to Everest Base Camp, there are certain conditions under which you can land either in EBC or anywhere nearby. If you are taking a commercial flight to Lukla, it is not possible to land in EBC. But with a private flight, you can land directly at the Everest Base Camp. However, the private flights are limited and highly regulated. Furthermore, if you’re considering a commercial flight, the closest airport to the region is Lukla, located approximately 30 minutes by air from Kathmandu.

Lukla is the starting point for treks in the Everest region, including the base camp of Everest. The flight is a thrilling experience, but it is not the final destination. Once you arrive in Lukla, you will need to trek for several days to reach Everest Base Camp. The trek typically lasts around 8-12 days, depending on your pace and the time you allow for acclimatization to the altitude. The journey is challenging, but the stunning views and experience make it worthwhile.

The Everest Base Camp Trek requires two permits: the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit. 

You’ll need to present an entry permit to enter Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and part of the National Park. The permit costs USD 30 per person and can be issued in Kathmandu or purchased at one of the check posts. Most trekkers prefer to obtain both Everest Trek permits in Lukla.

The Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit is a local permit that allows you to enter villages like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Lobuche, Everest Base Camp, and Gorakshep. The cost of this permit is USD 16 per person. This permit replaced the TIMS permit as a local permit for trekkers entering the Khumbu region.

Note: Since MyEverestTrip takes care of all the permits and paperwork, you don’t need to worry about the permit.

Everest Base Camp Trek is a moderate-level trekking adventure. Several factors make the journey challenging, requiring good physical and mental preparation. The first challenge is the trek’s remote location. The base camp is accessible only by a flight to Lukla or a multi-day trek from Jiri. While trekking, you will rely on basic teahouses for food and accommodation, as modern facilities like hospitals are limited. This remoteness also means that emergencies can be complex and evacuations can be time-consuming.

The trek, which spans over 130 kilometers (round trip), can be quite an adventure. It involves walking in terrain with steep and rocky ascents and descents, suspension bridges, and uneven paths. The trek demands walking 5 to 8 hours daily, depending on the day’s destination and terrain. The long hours of hiking, combined with limited rest and recovery time, can be exhausting.

Covering rugged trails, steep ascents, and rocky descents can be physically demanding, especially as the days progress. The trek reaches an altitude of 5,364 meters (17,598 feet) above sea level. At this height, you will experience thinner air and reduced oxygen levels, making it harder for your body to adjust. You may experience altitude sickness, and if the situation worsens, it can also become life-threatening.

The weather in the Everest region can be highly unpredictable. Temperatures can change quickly, and you might encounter strong winds or snowfall even during the best trekking seasons. Your mornings may start clear and sunny, but afternoons can bring clouds, rain, or fog, which can affect visibility and trail conditions. It is another challenge that trekkers will face and must overcome during the adventurous journey.

You Can Check: Everest Base Camp Trek Difficulty

Here are some ways you can prepare for the EBC Trek challenges:

• Physical Preparation: To physically prepare yourself for the journey, it is essential to be physically strong through strength and core training activities, as well as weighted backpacking exercises. These activities, along with others like cardio, jogging, and aerobics, can help make you stronger and more flexible for the EBC trek.
• Mental readiness: Maintain a balanced perspective. You must go to your destination prepared to conquer all the challenges that come your way. A brief digital detox just before the trek can also help clear your mind.
• Hydration: It is essential to stay hydrated throughout your optimal strength and mental clarity journey to maintain. Carrying a water purifying tablet and a personal water bottle will be helpful.
• Acclimatization: Be sure to acclimatize whenever possible. You need to stop by and rest properly to let your body habituate to the changing environment.
• Packing: Trekkers should avoid overpacking or underpacking. Doing either will lead to trouble. Please keep a checklist and follow it to avoid packing challenges.

Yes, you need travel insurance for the EBC trek. Trekkers must get travel insurance not just for its benefits or the possibility of risks, but also for the mental assurance it provides. Trekking is not easy, and when you don’t have a safety net to protect you in case things go south, you may be in big trouble. Embarking on a moderately challenging journey like the EBC trek requires individuals to have travel insurance to cover their trek.

While most companies do not cover over 3000m, you need to be cautious about at least seeking coverage of 6000m when you’re going to the EBC trek. It must cover high-altitude helicopter evacuation service, hospitalization, doctor visits, and overall medical coverage. The insurance must also cover trip delays or cancellations, as the Lukla weather is notoriously unpredictable. Similarly, it must include baggage and personal belongings coverage, protecting you against loss, theft, or damage to your luggage during the trek.

Please take a look at the policy details to understand the coverage limits, exclusions, and any additional optional coverages available before purchasing travel insurance.

Everest Trek is Nepal’s most famous teahouse trekking region. If you’ve never heard this word before, we can explain it first. A tea house is a local guesthouse built by the Sherpa people of Everest for trekkers. These basic hotels have two twin beds, a mattress, a small blanket, and a pillow. However, as the number of trekkers increases, developers continue to build tea houses in this region. All the owners of the local places ( the amiable Sherpa people) commit to making eco-friendly and comfortable tourism on Everest, thus building a homely Everest Base Camp accommodation.

You can find luxury rooms with private bathrooms and WIFI up to Namche Bazaar. Typically, bathrooms at higher altitudes in Asia are of the Asian squat style, and guests often share them during Everest Trek accommodations.  Furthermore, you will need to pay a few dollars more for the hot water shower and internet. However, the internet connectivity is relatively poor. There are no plugs in the room, and you need to charge your phone at the reception, which requires a small fee for the Everest accommodation.

During the EBC Trek, you will have the opportunity to sample a variety of local and international cuisines. In areas like Lukla and Namche Bazaar, trekkers can find a variety of menu options. However, as you move to a higher-altitude region, the menu becomes narrower with fewer options. The ingredients are usually sourced locally and are fresh and hygienic.

• Breakfast: For breakfast, you can enjoy options such as Tibetan bread, chapati, mashed potatoes, soups, Tibetan butter tea, or traditional tea, coffee, milk, and more.
• Lunch: You will have both traditional and Western options for lunch, including daal bhaat, various curries, pasta, pizza, bread, soups, and more.
• Dinner: For dinner, you can expect to enjoy a variety of food options, including daal bhaat, Tibetan breads, pizza, pasta, noodles, and stew.

Note: Please let your trek agency know of any special dietary requirements before the start of the journey.

One of the major concerns during the Everest Base Camp Trek is altitude sickness. As you ascend to an altitude above 2,500 meters, the lack of oxygen in the atmosphere causes trekkers to experience various discomforts. These symptoms are known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Common symptoms include headache, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, and shortness of breath.

AMS is the mildest form of altitude sickness, which can quickly progress and become severe. The progressive forms of AMS are HACE (High-Altitude Cerebral Edema) and HAPE (High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema). HACE occurs when the brain swells due to a lack of oxygen. Its symptoms include drowsiness, hallucinations, severe headache, and loss of coordination. Meanwhile, HAPE occurs when fluid accumulates in the lungs. Its symptoms include chest tightness, persistent cough, shortness of breath, and cyanosis (where the lips and fingertips turn blue).

Altitude sickness has claimed the lives of trekkers. Thus, it is crucial for trekkers, including experienced trekkers, to take proper precautions and safety measures. Here are a few preventive tips for altitude sickness:

• Do not rush to the higher elevation. Gradual ascension helps your body adjust to the growing altitude and thinner air.
• Take rest or acclimatization days while climbing to higher altitudes. Your body can better adapt to the changing altitude and surroundings.
• Follow the “Sleep low and climb high” principle. Although you ascend to a higher elevation during the daytime, you descend to a slightly lower altitude to spend the night.
• Keep yourself hydrated throughout the trek. Drink at least 3 to 4 hours of fluids to avoid dehydration, which can increase the risk of altitude sickness.
• Eat a healthy and nutritious diet to stay energized throughout your journey.
• Avoid intake of caffeine, alcoholic beverages, and excessive smoking, which can worsen the symptoms of altitude sickness.

Planning a journey to Everest Base Camp with My Everest Trip. We are a Nepalese Travel and Trekking Agency based in Kathmandu. We have been operating in different trekking regions for over a decade, traveling with hundreds of travelers worldwide. Hence, we have crafted a 12-day itinerary that delights adventure and nature enthusiasts.

The following are the benefits of booking your EBC trek from MyEverestTrip:

• Led by experts: The trek is led by experienced professionals who have worked with clients worldwide. The EBC trekkers will remain comfortable, knowledgeable, and able to complete their trek when they partner with us for their journey.
• Hassle-free logistics: From reliable porters to a fixed logistics setup, including airplane flights and necessary vehicle arrangements, we manage it all.
• Reliable communication: Please don’t hesitate to contact us at any time, before or after booking your tickets, to talk about your concerns or ask for help.
• Responsible trekking: You can learn how to trek responsibly after reaching the Everest region with our guidelines.

So, lace up your boots, pack your bag, and prepare for the trek with us. For those seeking a longer trek, we also offer a 14-day Everest Base Camp trek.

• Backpack
• Daypack
• Duffel
• Sleepingbag
• Headlamp
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Lipbalm
• Waterbottle
• Purifier
• Trekkingpoles
• Boots
• Sandals
• Socks
• Thermals
• Fleece
• Downjacket
• Windbreaker
• Gloves
• Hat
• Beanie
• Buff
• Towel
• Toiletries
• Firstaid
• Medicines
• Snacks
• Camera
• Powerbank
• Charger
• Passport
• Permits
• Cash