The Everest Base Camp Trek route takes you to off-beat trails of the Everest region. It is a thrilling adventure that takes you into the lap of the Himalayas.
Trekking to Everest Base Camp is one of Nepal’s most popular and sought-after adventures. It takes you through some of the world’s most breathtaking yet challenging terrain. It is a golden opportunity to experience Mt Everest, the world’s highest mountain, up close and personal without having to reach the Everest summit.
The EBC is a classic trek that has been a center of attraction for adventure lovers worldwide. It is the ultimate dream destination for trekkers to the glorious Himalayas. The appeal of the trek is not only its natural beauty but also the challenges and adventure of ascending to high altitudes.
Similarly, the trek is a marvelous opportunity to explore the unique Sherpa culture and way of life. En route to the Everest Base Camp, you will traverse traditional settlements, dense woodlands, cascading waterfalls, cross several suspension bridges, glaciers, and moraines.
Whether you’re an experienced trekker or a first-time adventurer, hiking to Everest Base Camp will be a memorable journey. This article provides a comprehensive guide to trekking at Everest Base Camp. But before we jump into the EBC route, let’s learn a few things about EBC.
Everest Base Camp Trek Difficulty
The Everest Base Camp Trek is a challenging trek. While on the trek, you must ascend and descend rough and rugged terrain, which includes steep, narrow, and slippery sections. Likewise, you must cross several suspension bridges, glaciers, and moraines en route.
The Everest Base Camp Trek duration usually lasts 12 to 14 days. You must be prepared to walk 5 to 6 hours daily on the rough trails, which makes it physically strenuous. Likewise, the weather is unpredictable at higher elevations. Sudden changes in weather, high winds, and temperature further challenge the trekkers.
During the EBC Trek, you will climb above 5000 meters, which makes trekkers prone to altitude sickness. After crossing the elevation of 2500 meters, the oxygen level in the atmosphere decreases, and the air pressure reduces. Due to a lack of oxygen, trekkers start to experience symptoms of altitude sickness. The symptoms can range from mild to severe and require immediate treatment. So, taking a rest day is crucial for acclimatization.
Another factor making the Everest Base Camp Trek difficult is the lack of infrastructure and facilities. The higher you go, the more basic the facilities become. Internet access/Wi-Fi is limited or nonexistent in higher regions, and phone signals may also not work properly.
These difficulties make the Everest Base Camp Trek challenging yet adventurous. So, trekkers who want to embark on the extraordinary trek to the Himalayas must undertake physical and mental preparation.
Best Time For Everest Base Camp Trek
Nepal experiences four seasons annually: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Each season significantly influences the weather and temperature of Nepal, including the Everest region. Spring and autumn are the two best times to trek to Everest Base Camp.
Spring (March to May) is the ideal time to visit Everest Base Camp for its pleasant weather and brilliant visibility. The daytime temperature can reach up to 20 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, the nighttime temperature can drop to -5 degrees Celsius. Spring also offers the best mountain views and colorful landscapes with blooming rhododendrons.
Autumn (September to November) has stable weather with mild temperatures, making it ideal for trekking to the Himalayas. The crisp air and clear sky offer magnificent views of the snow-covered peaks and landscapes. The daytime temperature can reach 25 degrees Celsius, while the nighttime temperature can drop to -10 degrees Celsius. The festive season also falls in autumn. So you can participate in the celebaration, experiencing the culture.
The weather is not very favorable for trekking to EBC in the summer (June to August) and winter (December to February) seasons. Summer coincides with the monsoon, so there is heavy rainfall. The trails become muddy and slippery. The daytime temperature can reach 27 degrees Celsius, and the nighttime temperature can drop to 5 degrees Celsius.
Meanwhile, in winter, the temperature gets extremely cold, especially at higher altitudes. There is also heavy snowfall and blizzards. There is a high chance of road blockage at high mountain passes. The daytime temperature in winter can reach 15 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, the nighttime temperature can drop to -20 degrees Celsius.
But with proper preparation, trekking is still possible in summer and winter. Consult with your trekking agency and check the weather forecast before embarking on the journey.
Equipment Required For Everest Base Camp Trek
The list of equipment and gear for the Everest Base Camp Trek is as follows:
- Long-sleeved shirts, trekking pants, and moisture-wicking layers
- Fleece jackets, down jackets (that can withstand -10 degrees temperature), windproof/waterproof jackets, and sweaters
- Hats, gloves, and scarves
- Moisture-wicking socks and inner garments
- Comfortable and sturdy boots
- Backpack with 40-50 litres capacity, duffle bag
- Trekking poles, flashlights, water bottles, and water purification tablets/ filter
- Trekking map, toiletries, and sunglasses
Route to trekking in Everest Base Camp
Everest Base Camp Trek Route
Now that you know how to prepare for trekking in Everest Base Camp, you are ready to start your journey to conquer the snow-capped mountains and experience heavenly nature in the sublime Khumbu region of Nepal.
Your journey begins with selecting the route based on your preferences and availability. In this section, we have listed popular routes to EBC, but the start of the trek is usually the same for all routes. First, you have to take a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. The small town of Lukla is considered the getaway to the Eastern region. After landing at the Lukla Airport, you will begin your Everest Trek.
Another alternative is to take a roadway from Kathmandu to Phaplu or Jiri. These two places also serve as a gateway to Everest. You can begin your trek from Phaplu or Jiri to Everest Base Camp, but it will take additional days.
The EBC Trek is the most popular trekking destination, followed by Annapurna Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Circuit Trek. Each route offers a unique and immersive experience of the stunning Nepalese Himalayas. Take a look:
Classic Everest Base Camp Trek
The Classic Everest Base Camp Trek is the most popular and well-traveled way to Everest. It generally takes 12-14 days to complete. The trek begins from Lukla and takes you through the heart of the Khumbu region. The trail goes alongside the Dudh Koshi River and then passes charming Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar, Sagarmatha National Park, and picturesque landscapes.
Similarly, during your acclimatization day in Namche, you can hike to the Everest View Hotel for the best views of Everest, explore the Sherpa Museums, or shop around.
During the trek, you will encounter beautiful rhododendron forests and cross suspension bridges over roaring rivers. Upon reaching Everest Base Camp, you can witness stunning views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse.
Gokyo Lakes Trek
Though the Gokyo Lakes Trek is a less traveled route, it is an equally beautiful alternative to the Classic Everest Base Camp Trek. This trek takes you to the fantastic Gokyo Lakes, located at 4,700 meters (15,420 feet), offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Along the trek, you will cross the challenging Cho La Pass at 5,420 meters (17,782 feet). You can enjoy breathtaking views of Everest and other peaks while experiencing the unique culture and lifestyle of the Sherpa people.
Three Passes Trek
If you want a more challenging trek, the Three Passes Trek 18 days is an excellent choice. The challenging trails take you through three high mountain passes, each over 5,000 meters (16,400 feet) in altitude.
Enjoy breathtaking Everest views and other Himalayas while the trail takes you off the beaten path. Likewise, Three Passes Trek allows you to experience the remote and untouched beauty of the Khumbu region. We encourage experienced trekkers to take this route.
Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass
This trek combines the Gokyo Lakes Trek with the Classic Everest Base Camp Trek. The trekking trails pass through the high mountain pass of Cho La, located at an altitude of 5,420 meters (17,782 feet).
En route, you will experience diverse landscapes and panoramic views of Everest and the surrounding Himalayas. You will also pass across glaciers and moraines. If you are looking forward to experiencing the beauty of the Gokyo Lakes and Everest Base Camp, this challenging yet rewarding route is for you.
Itinerary For Classic Everest Base Camp Trek 14 Days
Here is a Hillary Step Trek’s 14 days Everest Base Camp Trek itinerary:
- Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1350 m)
- Day 02: Flight to Lukla from Kathmandu and trek to Phakding (32 minutes flight, 3 hours trek/ 2610 m)
- Day 03: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (6-7 hours trek/ 3440 m)
- Day 04: Acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar
- Day 05: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (5-6 hours tre/ 3867 m)
- Day 06:Trek from Tenboche to Dingboche (5 hours trek/ 4410 m)
- Day 07: Acclimatization day in Dingboche
- Day 08: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche (5-6 hours trek/ 4940 m)
- Day 09: Trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep (7 hours trek/ 5364 m)
- Day 10: Trek from Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar to Pheriche (7 hours trek/ 5545 m)
- Day 11: Trek from Pheriche to Namche Bazaar (6 hours trek/ 4200 m)
- Day 12: Trek from Namche Bazar to Lukla (7 hours trek)
- Day 13: Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu
- Day 14: Departure
Conclusion
Trekking in Everest Base Camp is an incredible adventure that allows you to witness the most astonishing scenery on the planet as you journey to the world’s tallest mountain. The trekking trails mesmerize you with the incredible Himalayas views alongside Nepal’s fascinating culture.
While trekking is exhilarating and enjoyable, there are numerous risk factors. Therefore, you must select the best travel agency in Nepal that looks after you throughout your journey. Regarding providing authentic and best travel service with safety assurance, the Hillary Step Trek ranks the highest. Whether you want to trek in Nepal or a trip to Everest Base Camp, we have everything you need. Our representatives ensure you have the safest journey while making the most mesmerizing memories to cherish forever.
Frequently Asked Questions By Traveller
Is trekking to Everest Base Camp difficult?
The Everest base camp trek requires walking for several hours daily at high altitudes, including steep ascents and descents. You may also need to deal with issues regarding unpredictable weather conditions. This is why trekking in Everest base camp is considered challenging.
Is trekking to Everest Base Camp worth it?
Trekking in Everest Base camp is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience exceptional Himalayan views and the unique cultural experience of the Sherpa people. Moreover, standing on the foothills of the highest mountain in the world truly offers you an awe-inspiring experience. Thus, trekking to the Everest base camp is worth it.
Can a beginner climb Everest Base Camp?
With proper planning and preparation, beginners can also trek to Everest Base Camp.
How much does it cost to trek Everest Base Camp?
The Everest Base Camp Trek cost depends on numerous factors, including duration, season, and route selection. In general, it ranges from $1000 to $2000 per person. You will have to fly to Lukla, and the trek usually takes around 12 days to complete.
Is it hard to breathe at Everest Base Camp?
Thinning air pressure at high altitudes can lead to altitude sickness, making breathing difficult. However, proper preparation and acclimatization can minimize or prevent shortness of breath.
Do you lose weight trekking at Everest Base Camp?
It is possible to lose weight while trekking at Everest Base Camp. The key reasons are changes in diet, continuous walking up and down in high altitudes for several hours, and physical hard work during the trek. However, the result differs for everyone and depends on age, fitness level, and eating habits during the journey.
Can you do Everest Base Camp without training?
While extensive training for Everest Base Camp is not mandatory, it is ideal that you are in good physical and mental shape to begin, as the trek is considered highly challenging. So, you should do strength training exercises to help build endurance for long walks in high altitudes.
