Everest Base Camp Trek

The iconic trail to the base of Mt Everest

14 Days
5,545 m Max altitude
Moderate Difficulty
$1,850 From / person

The Everest Base Camp Trek is the classic Himalayan adventure that brings you face-to-face with the highest mountain on Earth. This carefully designed 14-day itinerary takes you through the heart of the Khumbu region, from the thrilling flight into Lukla to the legendary foot of Mount Everest at 5,364 metres and the world-famous sunrise viewpoint of Kala Patthar at 5,545 metres.

Beginning with arrival in Kathmandu, the journey quickly ascends into the Sherpa heartland. You walk through pine and rhododendron forests, cross iconic suspension bridges draped in prayer flags, visit ancient monasteries, and sleep in traditional teahouses while gaining altitude gradually. Two dedicated acclimatization days in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche ensure your body adapts safely before the final push to Base Camp and Kala Patthar.

Along the trail you pass through Namche Bazaar (the vibrant Sherpa capital), Tengboche Monastery (the spiritual centre of the Khumbu), Dingboche, Lobuche and Gorak Shep. Every day reveals new views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam and dozens of other peaks. The combination of dramatic scenery, rich Buddhist culture and a profound sense of achievement makes this one of the most rewarding treks in the world.

Best seasons: March–May (spring rhododendrons and stable weather) and September–November (clearest skies and excellent visibility). Graded Moderate — suitable for fit beginners who prepare with regular hill walking and cardiovascular training.

Day 1

Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m)

Welcome to Nepal. Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport you are met by our representative and transferred to your hotel in the vibrant Thamel district. After check-in and a short rest, your trekking guide conducts a detailed briefing covering the route, altitude profile, packing checklist, safety procedures and daily routine. The rest of the day is free to explore Thamel’s cafés, gear shops and lively streets or simply recover from your international flight. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m)
Accommodation Hotel in Kathmandu
Meals Dinner
Max Altitude 1,400 m
Distance Airport transfer
Day 2

Fly to Lukla (2,840 m) and trek to Phakding (2,610 m)

An early morning transfer takes you to the domestic terminal for the spectacular 35-minute mountain flight to Lukla, gateway to the Everest region. The flight itself is unforgettable, offering close-up views of the eastern Himalayan giants. After landing at Tenzing-Hillary Airport you meet the rest of the trekking crew, sort loads and begin walking. The trail descends gently through pine forests and traditional Sherpa villages alongside the roaring Dudh Koshi River, crossing several suspension bridges before reaching the pleasant village of Phakding (3–4 hours). Overnight in a teahouse.

Fly to Lukla (2,840 m) and trek to Phakding (2,610 m)
Accommodation Teahouse
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude 2,840 m
Distance 35 min flight + 3–4 hrs trek
Day 3

Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m)

Today’s walk is longer and more rewarding. You continue along the Dudh Koshi, crossing the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge and entering Sagarmatha National Park at Monjo. After a lunch stop the trail climbs steeply through pine and fir forest. Just before Namche you catch your first distant glimpse of Everest if the weather is clear. Namche Bazaar, the lively Sherpa capital of the Khumbu, sits in a natural amphitheatre and offers bakeries, cafés, gear shops and stunning mountain views (5–6 hours). Overnight in Namche.

Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m)
Accommodation Teahouse
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude 3,440 m
Distance 5–6 hours
Day 4

Acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar

A crucial rest and acclimatization day. After breakfast you hike up to the Everest View Hotel (3,880 m) or the villages of Khumjung and Khunde for panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam and Thamserku. The “climb high, sleep low” principle helps your body adapt. In the afternoon explore Namche’s weekend market (if timed right), the Sherpa Culture Museum or simply relax in a café with apple pie. Overnight again in Namche.

Acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar
Accommodation Teahouse
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude 3,880 m
Distance 3–4 hours hike
Day 5

Trek to Tengboche (3,860 m)

Leaving Namche the trail contours high above the Dudh Koshi with constant views of Ama Dablam. After descending to Phunki Tenga you climb steadily through rhododendron forest to Tengboche, home to the largest and most important monastery in the Everest region. The setting is magical — the monastery sits on a ridge with Everest, Lhotse and Ama Dablam as its backdrop. Attend the afternoon puja if timing allows (5–6 hours). Overnight in Tengboche.

Trek to Tengboche (3,860 m)
Accommodation Teahouse
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude 3,860 m
Distance 5–6 hours
Day 6

Trek to Dingboche (4,410 m)

From Tengboche the path descends to Deboche, then climbs gradually past Pangboche (the oldest Sherpa village in the region) and enters the open Imja Valley. The landscape becomes alpine; trees give way to scrub and yak pastures. Dingboche sits at the confluence of the Imja and Khumbu valleys and offers superb views of Island Peak, Lhotse and Ama Dablam (5–6 hours). Overnight in Dingboche.

Trek to Dingboche (4,410 m)
Accommodation Teahouse
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude 4,410 m
Distance 5–6 hours
Day 7

Acclimatization hike near Dingboche

Another vital acclimatization day. A popular option is the steep climb toward Nangkartshang Peak (approximately 5,083 m), which rewards you with a 360-degree panorama of Makalu, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Ama Dablam and the entire Imja Valley. Return to Dingboche for lunch and a restful afternoon. Hydrate well and enjoy the thin, clear air. Overnight in Dingboche.

Acclimatization hike near Dingboche
Accommodation Teahouse
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude 5,083 m
Distance 4–5 hours
Day 8

Trek to Lobuche (4,940 m)

The trail climbs gently at first, then steeply over the Thukla (Dughla) Pass where a series of memorials commemorate climbers who lost their lives on Everest. Beyond the pass you enter the high, rocky terrain of the Khumbu Glacier moraine. Lobuche is a small settlement with limited facilities but dramatic views of Nuptse and the surrounding peaks (5–6 hours). Overnight in Lobuche.

Trek to Lobuche (4,940 m)
Accommodation Teahouse
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude 4,940 m
Distance 5–6 hours
Day 9

Lobuche to Gorak Shep, visit Everest Base Camp (5,364 m)

One of the most anticipated days of the trek. You walk along the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier to Gorak Shep (5,164 m), the last permanent settlement. After a short rest and early lunch you continue across rocky glacial terrain to Everest Base Camp itself. Stand beneath the Khumbu Icefall, see the colourful expedition tents (in spring) and absorb the scale of the world’s highest mountain. Return to Gorak Shep for the night (7–8 hours total).

Lobuche to Gorak Shep, visit Everest Base Camp (5,364 m)
Accommodation Teahouse
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude 5,364 m
Distance 7–8 hours
Day 10

Sunrise at Kala Patthar (5,545 m), descend to Pheriche

An early start (pre-dawn) for the climb to Kala Patthar, widely regarded as the finest viewpoint of Mount Everest. From the rocky summit you watch the first light strike the summit pyramid of Everest, Lhotse and Nuptse. After photographs and a moment of quiet, descend past Gorak Shep and continue all the way down to the more comfortable village of Pheriche (6–7 hours). Overnight in Pheriche.

Sunrise at Kala Patthar (5,545 m), descend to Pheriche
Accommodation Teahouse
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude 5,545 m
Distance 6–7 hours
Day 11

Trek to Namche Bazaar

A long but mostly downhill day. You retrace your steps through Pangboche and Tengboche, enjoying the changing perspectives of Ama Dablam and the forest trails, before climbing the final stretch into Namche Bazaar. The thicker air and familiar bakeries feel luxurious after the high camps (6–7 hours). Overnight in Namche.

Trek to Namche Bazaar
Accommodation Teahouse
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude 3,440 m
Distance 6–7 hours
Day 12

Trek to Lukla

The final trekking day. Descend from Namche, cross the Hillary Bridge once more and follow the Dudh Koshi downstream through Phakding and the familiar villages to Lukla. Celebrate the successful completion of the Everest Base Camp Trek with your crew in the evening (6–7 hours). Overnight in Lukla.

Trek to Lukla
Accommodation Teahouse
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude 2,860 m
Distance 6–7 hours
Day 13

Fly Lukla to Kathmandu

Weather permitting, you take the morning flight back to Kathmandu. The aerial views of the mountains you have just walked through are a fitting finale. Transfer to your hotel; the rest of the day is free for hot showers, shopping, massage or simply relaxing. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Fly Lukla to Kathmandu
Accommodation Hotel in Kathmandu
Meals Breakfast
Max Altitude 1,400 m
Distance 35 min flight
Day 14

Departure from Kathmandu

After breakfast you are transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. We hope the Everest Base Camp Trek has been a life-changing experience and look forward to welcoming you back to the Himalayas one day.

Departure from Kathmandu
Accommodation —
Meals Breakfast
Max Altitude 1,400 m
Distance Airport transfer

What is Included

  • Airport pickup and drop-off in Kathmandu by private vehicle
  • Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on a twin-share basis with breakfast
  • All required trekking permits (Sagarmatha National Park, TIMS, local municipality fees)
  • Experienced, licensed English-speaking Sherpa guide for the full duration
  • Porter support (one porter for every two trekkers; max 20 kg combined)
  • Teahouse or lodge accommodation on the trail as per the itinerary
  • Three meals per day on the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner) plus tea or coffee
  • Kathmandu–Lukla–Kathmandu flights or helicopter sectors where stated in the package
  • First-aid kit carried by the guide and basic pulse-oximeter checks at higher camps
  • Staff insurance, wages, meals and accommodation for guide and porters
  • Pre-trek briefing in Kathmandu covering route, altitude and packing
  • Company duffel bag for porters and a detailed route map or app guidance
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu after the trek (where applicable)
  • All government taxes and official service charges
×

Not Included

  • ×International airfare to and from Kathmandu
  • ×Nepal entry visa fees payable on arrival or online
  • ×Travel insurance with high-altitude trekking and helicopter evacuation cover (mandatory)
  • ×Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu except where a farewell dinner is included
  • ×Bottled water, soft drinks, alcoholic beverages and snacks on the trail
  • ×Hot showers, battery charging and Wi-Fi fees at teahouses
  • ×Personal trekking gear (boots, sleeping bag, down jacket, poles) — available for rent in Kathmandu
  • ×Tips for guide, porter and driver (customary at the end of the trip)
  • ×Extra nights in Kathmandu due to early arrival, late departure or flight delays
  • ×Costs arising from itinerary changes caused by weather, landslides, strikes or political events
  • ×Personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls and souvenirs
  • ×Optional side trips or activities not listed in the itinerary

What to Bring

  • Broken-in waterproof trekking boots with good ankle support
  • Down jacket rated for at least −15 °C and a waterproof hard-shell jacket
  • Layering system: moisture-wicking base layers, fleece mid-layer, insulated vest
  • Trekking trousers, shorts and moisture-wicking T-shirts for lower elevations
  • Warm hat, sun hat, buff or neck gaiter and liner gloves plus insulated gloves
  • Sunglasses with UV protection (category 3 or 4) and high-SPF sunscreen
  • Sleeping bag rated to at least −15 °C (rentals available in Kathmandu)
  • Trekking poles (highly recommended for descents and long days)
  • Headlamp with spare batteries and a personal water bottle or hydration bladder (2 L)
  • Personal first-aid kit, blister care, any prescription medication and altitude medication if advised by your doctor
  • Quick-dry towel, toiletries and water purification tablets or a filter
  • Power bank and charging cables for phone and camera

Equipment Needed

  • Waterproof trekking boots and gaiters for snow or muddy trails
  • Four-season sleeping bag (−15 °C or colder rating)
  • Down jacket and waterproof hard-shell jacket and trousers
  • Trekking poles with adjustable length
  • Backpack 30–40 L for day use and a duffel for porter loads
  • Headlamp, sunglasses and high-altitude sunscreen
  • Water bottles or hydration system with purification method
  • Warm gloves, hat and thermal base layers
  • Lightweight camp shoes or sandals for teahouses
  • Pack cover or dry bags to protect clothing from rain

About the Everest Base Camp Trek

The Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the most sought-after journeys in the Nepal Himalaya, designed for travelers who want a structured, safety-focused experience with experienced local guides. Over approximately 14 days you travel from Kathmandu into the high valleys of the Khumbu (or the designated region for this route), following trails used by Sherpa communities and mountaineering expeditions for generations. The maximum elevation on this itinerary reaches about 5,545 m, so careful acclimatization, honest pacing and clear communication with your guide are central to a successful trip.

This package is operated with a strong emphasis on responsible tourism: fair wages for porters and guides, required permits obtained in advance, and leave-no-trace practices on the trail. Whether you are aiming for a classic base-camp viewpoint, a panoramic lake ridge, a non-technical summit or a scenic helicopter sector, the itinerary balances walking days, rest and contingency time for mountain weather.

Altitude, fitness and preparation

Success on this route depends more on preparation than on pure athleticism. We recommend a training block of at least eight to twelve weeks before departure: regular cardiovascular exercise, long weekend hikes with a daypack, and strength work for legs and core. If you have little experience above 3,000 m, discuss altitude medication with your doctor and learn the early symptoms of acute mountain sickness. Our guides carry basic monitoring equipment and will not push clients who need an extra rest day or a descent.

Hydration, a steady intake of calories and disciplined sleep at teahouses make a measurable difference above Namche Bazaar and equivalent elevations on other routes. Alcohol is best avoided at higher camps. The itinerary includes acclimatization days precisely so that your body can adapt; use those days for short hikes rather than complete rest when your guide advises it.

Permits, logistics and flights

All park and local permits required for this package are arranged by our Kathmandu office. Domestic flights or helicopter sectors between Kathmandu and the mountain airstrip are booked according to the itinerary and are always subject to weather. We advise flexible international tickets or buffer nights in Kathmandu after the trek so that a delayed Lukla or heli return does not cause you to miss a homebound flight.

Luggage on fixed-wing and helicopter flights is weight-restricted. You will receive exact limits in your pre-departure pack. Soft duffels pack more easily into aircraft holds than hard suitcases. Porters carry the main bag on the trail; you keep a daypack with essentials for the walking hours.

Accommodation and meals

In Kathmandu you stay in a comfortable tourist hotel on a twin-share basis unless you request a single room (supplement applies). On the trail, teahouses provide simple rooms and hearty meals based on dal bhat, soups, noodles, eggs and porridge. Higher lodges have fewer menu options. Drinking water should be purified or purchased; our team can advise on safe refills at each stop. Special diets can be requested at booking so that guides can help communicate with lodge kitchens.

Safety, insurance and responsible travel

Travel insurance that covers trekking or climbing to the maximum altitude of this package, including helicopter evacuation, is mandatory. We check policy wording before you leave Kathmandu. Guides are first-aid trained and carry a group kit; serious incidents are coordinated with our office and evacuation providers. We ask all clients to follow guide instructions on turnaround times, weather windows and group pacing.

Please respect local culture: ask before photographing people, dress modestly in villages and monasteries, and avoid single-use plastics where possible. Supporting teahouse owners and local staff through your booking is one of the most direct ways tourism benefits Khumbu communities.

Who this package is for

This trek is ideal for motivated hikers who want a classic Everest-region experience with professional local support. It is achievable for first-time high-altitude trekkers who prepare properly and respect the acclimatization schedule. Families with older teens and small private groups are welcome; we can adjust departure dates on request.

Booking and next steps

To reserve your place, contact our Kathmandu team with your preferred departure window and group size. A deposit secures permits and flight or heli seats. You will receive a full packing list, insurance requirements and a pre-trek briefing outline. We are happy to advise on gear rental in Thamel, visa procedures and connecting tours in Nepal before or after your mountain journey.

The Everest Base Camp Trek remains one of the most memorable ways to experience the scale of the Himalaya. With realistic training, the right insurance and a trusted local operator, you can focus on the trail, the views and the culture that make this region unique.

This is a moderate to strenuous Himalayan trek. Expect long walking days of 5–8 hours, steep ascents and sleeping above 4,000 m. Good cardiovascular fitness and previous multi-day hiking experience are strongly recommended.

The highest point on this itinerary is approximately 5,545 m. Proper acclimatization days are built into the schedule. Our guides monitor oxygen saturation and adjust pacing if anyone shows signs of altitude stress.

The preferred seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These months offer the most stable weather and clearest mountain views. Winter is possible for experienced travelers but is colder; the monsoon (June to August) brings rain and limited visibility.

Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance that covers trekking or climbing up to the maximum altitude of this package, plus emergency helicopter evacuation, is mandatory. We verify policy details before departure from Kathmandu.

Porters carry up to about 20 kg for every two trekkers. You carry a daypack with water, layers, camera and personal items (typically 5–7 kg). A company duffel is provided for the main bag that the porter transports between lodges.

Teahouses offer simple twin rooms with foam mattresses, pillows and blankets. Dining rooms are heated in the evening. Toilets may be shared. Higher up, facilities become more basic. Luxury or upgraded lodges apply only where stated in the package description.

Lukla flights depend on weather. Delays are common in both directions. We recommend buffer days in Kathmandu after the trek. Helicopter charter is an optional alternative at extra cost when fixed-wing flights are cancelled for extended periods.

Yes. Vegetarian, vegan and many allergy-based diets can be arranged if we are informed at booking. Teahouse menus are based on dal bhat, noodles, soups and Western-style breakfasts; variety decreases at higher elevations.

Ready for this journey?

Tell us your preferred dates and group size. We will take care of the rest.

Start Planning
Plan Your Trek

Your budget. Your customisation.

Tell us your dates, group size and budget. We will craft an Everest journey that fits — trek, peak or heli.

  • Budget-friendly or private
  • Fully customisable itineraries
  • Local Sherpa-led departures

Enquire now

We reply within one business day.