Everest Base Camp Trek- 12 Days

  • Duration12 Days
  • DestinationNepal
  • Difficulty Level Moderate Trek
  • Maximum Altitude 5,545 m
  • Activity Trekking
  • Group Size 1+
  • Accommodation Teahouse/Lodge
  • Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Best Season March to May and September to December
Overview of Everest Base Camp Trek- 12 Days

The Everest Base Camp Trek is an awe-inspiring adventure that takes you on a thrilling journey through the majestic Himalayas, offering breathtaking views and a chance to immerse yourself in the rich Sherpa culture. Spanning over 12 days, this iconic trek starts from the vibrant town of Lukla, where you will experience a short yet exhilarating flight amid towering peaks. As you trek through picturesque villages and lush forests, you'll witness the gradual transition of landscapes into rugged terrains, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The route takes you through Namche Bazaar, a bustling trading hub, and Tengboche, home to a famous monastery with stunning vistas. As the altitude increases, the challenge intensifies, but so does the sense of accomplishment.

Finally, after days of walking, you reach the Everest Base Camp, standing at 5,364 meters, offering an up-close encounter with the world's highest peak. The trek back retraces your steps, and with memories of the breathtaking vistas and cultural experiences, you return to Lukla to conclude this once-in-a-lifetime adventure. The Everest Base Camp Trek is not only a physical achievement but also a spiritual and cultural journey that leaves you with lasting memories of the remarkable Nepalese Himalayas.12-day Everest Base Camp Trek offers an incredible journey through the highlights of the Khumbu region. You'll visit the bustling town of Namche Bazaar, the ancient Tengboche Monastery, the pristine wilderness of Sagarmatha National Park, and witness the awe-inspiring summits of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.

One of the highlights of the trek is a visit to Kalapathar, a beautiful mountain situated at an altitude of 5545 meters. From its summit, you'll be treated to breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the entire Everest region, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Pumori, Khumbuche, and more. While prior trekking experience is not required, it's important to note that this is a moderately difficult trail with a maximum elevation of over 5,500 meters. You can expect to walk for around six to seven hours each day, encountering various ascents, descents, side valleys, and mountain passes. To fully enjoy this trek, it's advisable to be in good health and have a reasonable level of physical fitness. Engaging in activities such as walking, running, and cardiovascular exercise prior to the trek will help prepare you for the challenges and make your Everest Base Camp adventure a memorable experience.

Best time for the 12 Days Everest Base Camp Trek in Nepal

The optimal time for the 12 Days Everest Base Camp Trek is during Spring (March, April, May) and Autumn (September to early December). These seasons offer ideal weather conditions with warm days and cool nights. Both Spring and Autumn have extended daylight hours, but Spring generally has clearer skies for better views of the landscapes and mountains. In contrast, Autumn showcases vibrant fall foliage and shimmering snow-capped peaks. The weather during these times makes the trek enjoyable and comfortable, attracting numerous visitors to witness the natural beauty of the region.

 

12 days Everest Base Camp Trek Route in Nepal

The 12-day Everest Base Camp Trek in Nepal starts from the historic town of Lukla, a Sherpa settlement. The trail follows steep hills along the mountainside and Dudh Koshi River before reaching Phakding. Continuing through Sagarmatha National Park and remote villages, trekkers cross a suspension bridge and arrive at Namche Bazaar. Here, a day is spent acclimatizing and hiking to Everest Hotel View for a pre-glimpse of Mt. Everest, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku.

The trek then ascends uphill to Tengboche Monastery and afterward heads to Dingboche. Trekking through rugged hills and stone stairs, the trail leads to Lobuche. From Gorakshep, the final push to Everest Base Camp involves walking on loose rocks and steep switchbacks, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

After sightseeing at the base camp, trekkers return to Gorak Shep and ascend Kalapatthar for a beautiful sunrise view. The journey then leads back to Gorak Shep, Pheriche, and finally, Namche Bazaar, crossing lush green forests with rhododendron and juniper. Descending gently through rolling hills and alpine forests, the trek concludes in Lukla, where a flight takes trekkers back to the valley.

EBC - 12 DAYS DIFFICULTY LEVEL

While prior trekking experience is not mandatory for the Everest Base Camp Trek package, it is essential to note that the trail is moderately difficult, reaching an elevation of over 5,500 meters. Trekkers will need to walk for six to seven hours daily, navigating through various side valleys and high-altitude mountain passes.

Considering the challenging nature of the trek, it is crucial to be in good health and physically fit before embarking on this journey. Engaging in cardiovascular exercises such as walking, running, or other forms of training can help prepare for the trek and fulfill the dream of crossing Mt. Everest off the bucket list.

Alpine Ramble Treks provides expert guides to ensure the safety and support of trekkers throughout the entire route from Lukla to Everest Base Camp and back.

For those seeking alternative options in the Khumbu region, Alpine Ramble Treks offers various packages, including the Everest Gokyo Lake Trek - 10 Days and the eight-day Everest Base Camp Hiking Itinerary.

For time-constrained travelers, Alpine Ramble Treks organizes a shorter version of the EBC trek, which can be completed in just one week from Kathmandu.

Additionally, if time is limited, visitors can still experience the grandeur of Mount Everest through the Everest Helicopter Tour or Scenic Everest Flight, both offering remarkable views of the world's tallest mountain on day trips from Kathmandu.

Highlights
  • The Everest Base Camp Trek takes you to the base camp of Mount Everest, the highest peak in the world.
  • You'll be surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including snow-capped mountains, valleys, and glaciers.
  • The trek starts in Lukla and passes through Namche Bazaar, a vibrant Sherpa town where you can acclimatize and experience the local culture.
  • Tengboche Monastery, one of the most important monasteries in the region, offers breathtaking views of Everest and other peaks.
  • The Khumbu Icefall presents a challenging but thrilling part of the trek, showcasing the hazards faced by climbers attempting to summit Everest.
  • Reaching Everest Base Camp at an altitude of 5,364 meters provides a close-up view of the world's highest peak.
  • Hiking up to Kala Patthar offers a panoramic view of Everest and the surrounding Himalayan giants.
  • Interacting with the Sherpa people allows you to learn about their unique culture, traditions, and hospitality.
  • The scenic flights between Kathmandu and Lukla provide unforgettable aerial views of the Himalayan range.
Itinerary

Upon arriving in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by the trekking company's crew at the airport. They will provide you with a warm welcome and assist you with the necessary arrangements.

  • Max. Altitude:1400m
  • Accommodation:Hotel

You will take a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, a small town in the Everest region. From Lukla, you'll begin your trek to Phakding, which is situated at an altitude of 2,610 meters. This day serves as an introduction to the trek and allows you to acclimatize gradually.

  • Max. Altitude:2610m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The trek continues from Phakding, following the Dudh Koshi River. You'll pass through several suspension bridges, pine forests, and small Sherpa villages before reaching Namche Bazaar, a bustling town located at an elevation of 3,440 meters.

  • Max. Altitude:3,440m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Acclimatization is crucial for adapting to the increasing altitude. This day is dedicated to resting and exploring Namche Bazaar. You may visit the local market, museums, or hike to nearby viewpoints for stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas.

  • Max. Altitude:3,440m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The trail ascends towards Tengboche, a famous Buddhist monastery located at 3,860 meters. Along the way, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and other surrounding peaks.

  • Max. Altitude:3,860m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:5 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Continuing the trek, you'll make your way to Dingboche at an elevation of 4,350 meters. The landscape changes as you enter the alpine zone, and the views become even more awe-inspiring.

  • Max. Altitude:4,350m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:6 hrs
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Another acclimatization day is scheduled in Dingboche. You can explore the area, take short hikes, or simply relax to allow your body to adjust to the altitude.

  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The trail leads to Lobuche, situated at 4,910 meters. The terrain becomes more rugged as you approach the higher altitudes, and you'll start to feel the thinning air.

  • Max. Altitude:4,910m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:5 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This is a significant day as you trek to the iconic Everest Base Camp at 5,365 meters. You'll spend some time at the base camp, soak in the incredible surroundings, and then return to Gorak Shep for an overnight stay.

  • Max. Altitude:5,365 m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Early in the morning, you'll hike to Kala Patthar, a renowned viewpoint offering a spectacular sunrise view over Everest and the surrounding peaks. Afterward, you'll trek back down to Pheriche, situated at 4,120 meters.

  • Max. Altitude:5,545m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The descent continues as you make your way back to Namche Bazaar, retracing your steps through scenic trails.

  • Max. Altitude:3,440m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:4 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

On this day, you'll trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla, where the journey began. It's a long but rewarding trek, filled with memories of the stunning landscapes you encountered along the way.

  • Max. Altitude:2840m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:7 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

In the morning, you'll take a short flight from Lukla back to Kathmandu, marking the end of your trekking adventure. Upon reaching Kathmandu, you can rest, reflect on your experience, and explore the city's cultural highlights.

  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Time:30 minutes flight
  • Meals:Breakfast&Frewell Dinner

Notes: The flight from Lukla to Kathmandu is redirected to Ramechhap due to traffic congestion and a high influx of tourists during the high season. The high tourist season in Nepal is spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). In the season of tourism, there are many international and domestic flights operating in different sectors which is more than capacities of the small Tribhuban international airport. Due to this reason, there is the problem with air traffic and delays in Lukla flights too. Lukla flights are only in the morning time and it does not fly during day time due to heavy wind and foggy weather on the way to Lukla. If the flights are from Ramechaap, there is no issue of air traffic and flight duration is also less than from Kathmandu. Flight to Ramechhap will add 5 hours approx. to your journey. It seems like an added inconvenience but let’s see the brighter side

Cost Details
Includes
  • All airport/hotel transfers
  • 2 nights hotel in Kathmandu
  • Farewell dinner
  • All accommodations and meals during the trek ( only meals and no beverages)
  • Pickup and drop to start your trek and from the ending point to your Hotel In Kathmandu or your destination
  • An experienced English-speaking trek leader (trekking guide), assistant trek leader (10 trekkers: 1 assistant guide), and Sherpa porters to carry luggage (2 trekkers:1 porter) including their salary, insurance, equipment, flight, food, and lodging
  • All necessary paperwork and permits (National Park permit, TIMS)
  • A comprehensive medical kit
  • All government and local taxes
Excludes
  • Meals not specified in the 'Meal Inclusions' in the itinerary'
  • Alcoholic, non-alcoholic drinks and hot water, tea, coffee soft drinks, etc.
  • Early check-ins and late check-outs 
  • Travel Insurance
  • sightseeing and entry fees in the city
  • International airfare
  • Nepal entry visa: you can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu.
  • Hot showers during the trek
  • Personal trekking equipment
  • Tips for trekking staff and driver (Tipping is respected but it is not obligatory)
  • PCR tests
  • Sleeping bags ( can be rented from us for $35 for the whole trip)
FAQs
  • The Everest Base Camp trek typically takes around 12-14 days to complete. This includes trekking to Base Camp and returning to Lukla.

  • The Everest Base Camp trek is considered moderately difficult. It involves long and steep ascents and descents, as well as trekking at high altitudes. A good level of physical fitness and prior hiking experience is beneficial.

  • While prior trekking experience is not mandatory, it is advisable to have some level of hiking experience and physical fitness. Training and preparation, including cardiovascular exercises and building stamina, can help in tackling the challenges of the trek.

  • For the Everest Base Camp trek, you need two permits: the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and the TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card. These can be obtained through registered trekking agencies or at the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu.

  • There is no specific age restriction for the Everest Base Camp trek. However, trekkers should be in good health, physically fit, and capable of enduring the challenges of high altitude trekking. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before embarking on the trek.

  • Health and safety considerations during the Everest Base Camp trek include proper acclimatization, staying hydrated, following a balanced diet, maintaining personal hygiene, and carrying a basic first aid kit. It is essential to be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and to take necessary precautions.

  • We will sleep indoors during the Everest Trek in almost all the places. However, during peak season, the lodges put up tents if it is too occupied and full. 

  • Though you can go there in Winter and Monsoon, it is not recommended as the weather will be more challenging. In winter, from December to February, it is extremely cold but you can enjoy the clear skies and mountains too.

    And during the monsoon, from June to August, there is a high chance of landslides and muddy roads.

  • Though it is not mandatory, we suggest you have travel insurance for your trek in this region. We have a top 3 list of reasons you would find to have insurance for the trek.

    Injury: You will be going to the Himalayas, and the path is not easy. There is a chance of injury, and in rare cases, you might need an emergency helicopter rescue.

    Acclimatization: You will reach an altitude of 5,555 meters, so there is a possibility of getting mountain sickness. In those cases, proper rescue might be needed.

    Some travel insurance plan covers some important things like,

    Passport Loss
    Travel Delay
    Expenses on Medical and Emergency
    Loss of Baggage
    Note: Travel insurance will not include things like loss of personal accessories.

    There are a lot of travel insurance companies. We recommend that you choose the best travel insurance company. At least check what they cover and what they do and don't do to see if they are reliable.

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