Is it necessary to take a guide for the Everest Base Camp trek?

Everest Base Camp is an independent trek and can be done solo, but many choose to take a guide for navigation, cultural insights, and safety, especially at higher altitudes.

How cold does it get on the Everest Base Camp trek?

The temperature of the Everest base camp trek is a minimum of 1°C and can drop below freezing as low as -20°C at night, especially at higher altitudes. Layering is key to staying warm.

Is altitude sickness common on the trek?

Yes, anyone can get altitude sickness. It's important to correctly acclimatize, maintain hydration, and notice symptoms to take precautions and medication on time.

Can I shower on the Everest Base Camp trek?

Yes, most teahouses offer hot showers for a fee, which increases with altitude.

Everest Base Camp Trek: Overnight at Base Camp

based on 7 reviews

Duration14 Days
DestinationNepal
Difficulty Level Moderate Trek
Maximum Altitude 5545m
Activity Hiking
Group Size 1-10
Accommodation Teahouse / Lodge / Tent
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Best Season March - May and September - November

Sleeping at Everest Base Camp is an unforgettable experience that will push your limits while rewarding you with stunning views of the world's highest mountain. The path offers a one-of-a-kind experience in the Everest region. Such an experience cannot be obtained with a normal Everest Base Camp 14 days Trek .

EBC is a challenging trek. This trek will surely test your limits and reward you with moments that you will remember forever. You will trek through one of the most beautiful trails full of panoramic mountain views. This trek will offer you a very close view of the world's tallest mountain Mt Everest alongside other mountains like Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumori, and Ama Dablam.

Everest Base Camp Trek with Overnight Stay at Base Camp Overview

Experience Everest like never before with this rare and remarkable Everest Base Camp Trek with Overnight Stay at Base Camp. Unlike standard trekking routes, this itinerary is crafted to give you an exclusive chance to sleep at Everest Base Camp (5,364 meters), surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Himalayas and the awe-inspiring Khumbu Icefall a privilege few trekkers ever experience.

While most visitors trek to Everest Base Camp and return to Gorak Shep the same day, this unique adventure allows you to spend the night at the foot of Mount Everest, in specially arranged heated expedition tents, offering a taste of what real climbers feel during their expeditions to summit the world’s highest peak.

At night, witness a sky full of stars like you've never seen before. During the day, walk alongside the famous Everest expedition route, pass legendary Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar and Tengboche, and acclimatize in scenic spots such as Dingboche and Lobuche.

This immersive Everest Base Camp hiking experience includes breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumori, and Ama Dablam, as well as visits to iconic cultural landmarks, monasteries, and viewpoints like Kala Patthar (5,645 meters) the best place to witness Everest at sunrise.

Whether you're an avid hiker, a mountain lover, or a photographer chasing the perfect shot of Mount Everest from Base Camp, this itinerary offers luxury, adventure, and exclusivity in the heart of the Himalayas

Is it possible to stay overnight at Everest?

Yes, it is possible to stay overnight at Everest and enjoy the beauty the place has to offer.

In the past taking an adventure to Everest was a task that needed preparation for months. But after many years of experience and expertise, you can not only trek to the Everest base but also overnight sleep in the camp. It is all possible because of the guidance and techniques that the team offers to people who are willing to take this adventure.

The Everest base camp will have very basic accommodation arrangements. You will get camps, tents, and sleeping bags for you to sleep in. They also have a basic small kitchen to prepare food.

Permits for Everest Base Camp

To conserve the natural beauty of Mount Everest and the Himalayan mountain range, the Nepalese government requires permit entrance fees.

These restrictions apply to all national parks in Nepal, including Sagarmatha National Park. When you evaluate the cost of these permits in relation to your overall travel expenses in Nepal and the Everest Region, the fee is reasonable. This outlay is an investment in the future of this spectacular region, which includes snow-capped peaks, forests, glaciers, pastures, and a rich cultural legacy.

Certain entrance permits are required to embark on the Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek, as detailed below:

Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit (NPR 2000 per person)
Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit (NPR 3000 per person)

Acquiring these permits helps to preserve the region's natural beauties and cultural legacy, ensuring its beauty for future generations.

Best Season for the Everest Trek

The best seasons for the Everest Trek are pre-monsoon (spring) and post-monsoon (autumn).

Spring (March to May):

March to May is a popular month for trekking in the Everest Region. These months offer relatively stable weather, with clear skies and normal temperatures. You will encounter beautiful rhododendron forests during this time. Temperatures during the day can range from 10°C to 15°C at lower altitudes, while higher elevations can be colder, especially at night. The visibility of beautiful landscapes, mountains, and snow-capped peaks during this time is excellent.

Autumn (September to November):

September to November is the second most popular trek in Everest Region. After monsoon season, the skies are clear, and the air is fresh. The temperatures during this time are similar to those in spring. September to November also offers the best view, with crisp, clear views of the peaks. This time is slightly cooler than spring, with temperatures at lower altitudes ranging from 5°C to 10°C and colder temperatures at higher elevations. The post-monsoon landscape is lush and green, adding to the beauty of the trek.

Both these seasons offer beautiful experiences and breathtaking views, making them the best times to embark on the Everest Three Passes Trek.

Highlights

Flight to Lukla
Explore the bustling market area of Namche Bazar
Immerse yourself in the rich Sherpa culture and hospitality.
Explore ancient monasteries with a panoramic view
Reach Gorak Shep & Kala Patthar, the highest point of the trek.
Stunning views of Everest and its neighboring peaks.
Overnight stay at EBC

Itinerary

Day 1:Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel in Thamel, a vibrant tourist hub filled with trekking shops, cafes, and cultural attractions. After checking in, you will attend a pre-trek briefing where you will meet your guides, review the itinerary, and ensure that all your gear is in order. The rest of the day is free to explore Kathmandu’s rich heritage sites such as Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. You can also shop for last-minute trekking gear in Thamel before heading to bed early in preparation for the adventure ahead.

Day 2:Flight to Lukla (2,860m) & Trek to Phakding (2,610m)

The day begins with a thrilling 35-minute flight to Lukla, known for its short, high-altitude runway and breathtaking mountain views. Upon landing, the trek officially begins with a gentle hike to Phakding, passing through quaint Sherpa villages and lush forests. The Dudh Koshi River accompanies the trail, offering beautiful scenery and peaceful surroundings. After about 3-4 hours of trekking, you will reach Phakding, where you will spend the night in a local tea house.

Day 3:Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)

The trek to Namche Bazaar is one of the most exciting days of the journey. The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River, crossing several suspension bridges, including the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge. After entering Sagarmatha National Park at Monjo, you will begin a challenging ascent to Namche Bazaar, the largest Sherpa town in the region. This uphill trek is strenuous but rewarding, as you will get your first glimpse of Mount Everest along the way. After 6-7 hours of trekking, you will arrive in Namche, where you can explore local markets, bakeries, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of this Himalayan town.

Day 4:Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar

Acclimatization is crucial to adjusting to the increasing altitude, and Namche Bazaar is the perfect place for a rest day. A short hike to Everest View Hotel (3,880m) is recommended, offering stunning panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. You can also visit the Sherpa Museum and the Sagarmatha National Park Visitor Center to learn about the local culture and mountaineering history. The rest of the day can be spent exploring Namche’s cafes, bakeries, and gear shops, before enjoying a comfortable night’s sleep.

Day 5:Trek to Tengboche (3,860m)

Leaving Namche Bazaar, the trail winds through rhododendron forests, yak pastures, and charming Sherpa villages. The trek offers breathtaking views of Ama Dablam and Everest, making it one of the most scenic days of the journey. After a moderate hike, you will reach Tengboche, home to the famous Tengboche Monastery, the largest monastery in the region. The evening is spent exploring the monastery and soaking in the peaceful surroundings before settling into a cozy tea house for the night.

Day 6:Trek to Dingboche (4,410m)

From Tengboche, the trek continues through Pangboche Village before reaching Dingboche, a picturesque high-altitude village surrounded by towering peaks. The landscape begins to change as the trees thin out, giving way to rugged terrain and expansive views of Lhotse, Island Peak, and Makalu. Dingboche is known for its stone-walled fields that protect crops from harsh winds. After 5-6 hours of trekking, you will settle in for the night, preparing for another acclimatization day ahead.

Day 7:Acclimatization Day in Dingboche

Another crucial acclimatization day is spent in Dingboche, with an optional hike to Nagarjun Hill (5,100m) or Chhukung Ri (5,550m). These short yet steep hikes offer breathtaking views of the Himalayas, including Makalu, Island Peak, and Everest. The afternoon is free for rest and relaxation, allowing the body to adjust to the high altitude.

Day 8:Trek to Lobuche (4,910m)

As you continue toward Lobuche, the landscape becomes even more dramatic. The trail passes through Thukla Pass (4,830m), where you will find memorials dedicated to climbers who lost their lives on Everest. The final stretch to Lobuche is challenging but rewarding, with spectacular views of Pumori, Nuptse, and Everest.

Day 9:Trek to Everest Base Camp (5,364m) & Overnight Stay

This is the most anticipated day of the trek! After a short trek to Gorak Shep (5,164m), you will continue on to Everest Base Camp, walking along the Khumbu Glacier and icefall. Reaching EBC is a surreal experience, as you will stand at the base of the world’s highest peak. Unlike most trekkers who return to Gorak Shep, you will spend the night at Everest Base Camp, enjoying a unique and peaceful atmosphere under the starlit Himalayan sky.

Day 10:Trek to Pheriche (4,240m)

After witnessing a breathtaking sunrise over Everest, the descent begins. The trek back to Pheriche is long but easier than the ascent, allowing time to enjoy the changing landscapes.

Day 11:Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)

Retracing the path through Pangboche and Tengboche, the descent to Namche Bazaar is filled with stunning views and a sense of accomplishment.

Day 12:Trek to Lukla (2,860m)

The final trekking day takes you back to Lukla, passing through Monjo and Phakding. A celebratory evening with your guides and porters marks the successful completion of the trek.

Day 13:Flight to Kathmandu

A scenic morning flight back to Kathmandu brings the trek to a close. The rest of the day is free to explore Kathmandu, enjoy a relaxing massage, or shop for souvenirs.

Day 14:Departure from Kathmandu

After an unforgettable journey, it’s time to bid farewell to Nepal. A transfer will take you to the airport for your departure flight, concluding your Everest Base Camp Overnight Stay Trek.

Route Map

Everest Base Camp Trek: Overnight at Base Camp map

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)
All necessary paperwork and permits (National Park permit, TIMS)
A comprehensive medical kit
Duffel Bags

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
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 and down jacket ( can be rented)

Departure Dates

Select a Departure Month

Trip Date		Price	Status
Start DateStartsJul 23, 2025	End DateEndsAug 05, 2025	PriceUS$1449	StatusAvailable

Useful Info

Immunizations: Though, Nepal doesn’t have official vaccination requirements, it is nevertheless a good idea to consider some vaccines before coming here. See Immunization chapter under Safety for more details. It is also a good idea to read the chapter on Pre-existing Conditions before leaving home. Here is a list of the most relevant ones only:
Travel Insurance: Before you set out also make sure you have travel insurance that covers helicopter rescues. See Insurance under Safety for more details. Also, make sure to register with your embassy with your itinerary details before leaving. Go to our Embassy section for links.

Flight Tickets to Nepal

Book a Hotel in Nepal: There are a lot of review based web portals to book hotels in Kathmandu. However, it shouldn’t be much of a problem to get a room even if you haven’t booked in advance.
Packing Tips: Indeed exciting times we live in. Just make sure you don’t pack off valuables in your luggage for the international airport at Kathmandu isn’t too well renowned for packing everything in after a security check. Valuables are better off in your hand carry.

Things to do at the Airport in Kathmandu

Get a Nepali Visa: Visa on Arrival for most countries. Need USD 25(15 days)/ USD 40 (30 days)/ USD 100 (90 days) in one of these currencies: Euro, Swiss Franc, Pound Sterling, US Dollar, Australian Dollar, Canadian Dollar, Hong Kong Dollar, Singapore Dollar and Japanese Yen. You will need your passport and 1 passport size photo.
Get a Nepali SIM Card: Both NTC and Ncell. two of the most popular telecom companies, provide SIM cards based on GSM technology. Tough luck if your phone is of the CDMA kind.
Comprehensive Packing List for Trekking in Nepal

Both branded items and local take on branded items are available in Kathmandu. It is totally possible to get everything and anything you will need for a trek here. A word of cautions about local products though: Being labeled North Face or Mountain Hardwear, as most local products are, doesn’t bless them with durability. However, there are good fakes and bad fakes and most are okay for the price. If you spend some time checking and rechecking the stuff especially the zippers and stitching, it will provide service for at least one trek. Or you could just stick to one of the branded outlets in Thamel.

However, bringing some stuff from home will save you time in Kathmandu and will also give you peace of mind. Also if you don’t know, the dress code for the mountains is layers. And avoid cotton inners at all costs.

Gear from your Home Country

Trekking Boots- Lightweight, waterproof, ankle support, some toe room and most importantly broken in.
Daypack/Rucksack with pack cover- If you plan on hiring porters, a 30-liter bag should be enough. Otherwise look for a 70 liter one.
Passport size photos- 5-7 should be good.
Sunglasses with straps- Straps are important as sunglasses happen to be the one thing that people misplace most often while taking pictures or resting.
Spare glasses/lenses- If you wear glasses or contact, having a spare is very important.
Inner Thermals- Both top and bottom will make your trek that much more enjoyable.
Fleece- Great for layering with wind/waterproof jacket for walking.
Wind/Water Jacket- Make sure it is breathable and is waterproof.
Down Jacket- Mornings and evenings can be pretty chilly. Will make your stay at camp and short excursions that much more comfortable.
Fleece pants- So you can remain warm and feel clean during the evenings.
Wind pants- Waterproof breathable is recommended.
Gloves- Make sure it is at least windproof.
Underwear- 4-6 should carry you through a two-three week trek.
Flashlight- Look for LED head torches.
Camera with extra battery- One extra battery should be good as charging can sometimes be a bit of a hassle. Also, you cannot charge, if you don’t have a charger. Do not forget that.
Socket Adapter- Many sockets in Nepal are of Type C that is they have circular pins. It will be handy to have an adapter just in case.
Water filters or Water purification tablets- To give you peace of mind and protection when you aren’t sure of the water. Water filters are amazingly small and efficient these days.
Optional Gear you should consider bringing from your Home Country
Vitamin supplements- One thing that you will be short on during a trek is Vitamin C. Supplements are always welcome.
Zip locks- Useful in oh so many different ways, for first aid kits to toiletries to documents.
Running shoes- Great to keep your feet comfortable in treks like ABC, Annapurna Circuit and Manaslu in which a sizeable portion of the trek goes through low country.
Swiss Army Knife- Pack it off in your luggage if you don’t want it confiscated at airports.
Binoculars- Consider small and light ones unless watching wildlife is your main purpose.
Books- A trek is a perfect time to catch up on reading. However, it would be tough to finish more than 2 books in a single two-three week trek.
Gaiters- Keeps your feet dry and warm if the weather takes a turn for the worse.

Gear you can easily get in Nepal

Trekking trousers- 2 pairs. Lightweight and loose.
Trekking shirts- 2 pairs. Collared ones are better. Avoid cotton.
Woollen cap
Trekking poles- You back and legs will love you for these, especially in downhill stretches.
Water bottle- Get 2 with a wide mouth and which can take in hot water.
Sandals- Great for giving your feet a breather during the evenings.
Buffs- 3. Can be used as a neck gaiter, headwear, to mask, hairband and a whole bunch of other ways. One of the best use however is to cover your nose and mouth at high altitudes to hydrate your breath and avoid the cold dry mountain air. Make sure to keep it rather loose around your nose though and your lungs will love you for it.
Sleeping Bag liner- A light silk liner is good enough rather than the heavy fleece ones. Its main purpose is to protect you from lodge blankets that are washed at most twice a year.
Socks- 3 pairs are more than good enough. Make sure they are thick woolen ones. For treks that go through low country like Annapurna Circuit and Manaslu Circuit, you might consider getting 2 more pairs of lightweight socks too.
Sunscreen- SPF 30-50 will be good enough. There is little point in going over that. However, make sure it is rated UVA in addition to UVB.
Lip Balm- Moisturizing and SPF 30 necessary.
Toilet paper- 2 rolls should be good enough.
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Shower Gel- Travel size or sachets ideal as you won’t be showering as much during a trek.
Shampoo- Travel size of sachets are ideal.
Towel- A small one will be more than good enough.
Moisturizing cream- That cold dry mountain air will take its toll on your skin.
Hand sanitizer
Plastic Bags- 2 large ones 3 small ones. Comes in very handy to put in your dirty laundry
Snacks- Carry some chocolate bars and nuts for a quick munch before lunch. Don’t carry too much as you can find them in lodges all along the trails.
Optional Gear you can easily Get in Nepal
Sun Hat/Baseball Hat- Great for protection from the sun when it is still warm enough.
Neck gaiter- A buff can be used in place of this. But this one comes in handy
Deodorant- Your partner will love you for this.
Diary
Pen- Carry some spares.
Kit Bag and lock- If you plan to hire a porter, a kit bag comes in handy. Make sure you get a lock too. Combination ones are easier.

Medical Kit Checklist

Due to lax prescription requirements, most of the items are easier to get in Kathmandu.
Povidone-Iodine cream- 1 tube
Cotton- 1 roll
Dressing Gauze- 5 pcs
Crepe Bandage- 2
Band-Aids- 10
Dressing tape- 1
Moleskin/ 2nd Skin- 1 packet
Calamine- To aid in skin healing due to sunburns or chaffing.
Paracetamol 300 mg- 20 tablets. For mild headaches.
Ibuprofen 400 mg- 10 tablets. To relieve moderate to severe pain.
Throat lozenges- 20. For cough and sore throat. Can be used preventively against the cold dry mountain air.
Decongestant- 10 tablets- For nasal congestion. Non-drowsy kinds like pseudoephedrine recommended.
Antihistamine 10 tablets- For allergies.
Antiemetic 10 tablets- To control vomit and nausea.
Azithromycin 500 mg- 3 tablets. For bacterial diarrhea.
Omeprazole 20 mg- 10 tablets. For gastric problems.
Ciprofloxacin 500 mg- 10 tablets. For bacterial diarrhea.
Tinidazole 2 g- 3 tablets (500 mg- 12 tablets). For giardia and amoebic diarrhea.
Acetazolamide (Diamox) 250 mg - 20 tablets. To aid acclimatization and AMS treatment.
Dexamethasone 4 mg - 10 tablets. To be used under expert supervision to treat AMS.
Nifedipine 60 mg - 10 tablets. To be used under expert supervision to prevent and treat HAPE.
Loperamide 2 mg- 20 tablets. To control diarrhea.

FAQs

Q1. Is it necessary to take a guide for the Everest Base Camp trek?
- Everest Base Camp is an independent trek and can be done solo, but many choose to take a guide for navigation, cultural insights, and safety, especially at higher altitudes.
Q2. How cold does it get on the Everest Base Camp trek?
The temperature of the Everest base camp trek is a minimum of 1°C and can drop below freezing as low as -20°C at night, especially at higher altitudes. Layering is key to staying warm.
Q3. Is altitude sickness common on the trek?
Yes, anyone can get altitude sickness. It's important to correctly acclimatize, maintain hydration, and notice symptoms to take precautions and medication on time.
Q4. Can I shower on the Everest Base Camp trek?
Yes, most teahouses offer hot showers for a fee, which increases with altitude.

Clients Reviews

EBC hike
Pre trip logistics handled by Jasmine were great, instructions were clear and responses were quick! Upon arrival, Mithun and my guide Kisim were on the ground to assist with any issues I had such as buying gear/ changing money etc

Guide Kisim was amazing during the actual hike, we were clearly briefed on what to expect, and he always tried to make sure that we were comfortable and safe. We had lots of fun during the hike, and Kisim also went above and beyond to get us the best views and experience of the mountains, such as bringing us on an extra sunset hike at Dingboche which turned out fantastic. Great guide!

I fell ill later on during the hike, and Mithun and Kisim were constantly checking in on me, making sure that the Heli evacuation was okay, and Mithun was at the hospital to accompany me and escort me back to the hotel in Kathmandu.

All in all this was a great experience and I would highly recommend booking your trek with All Nepal Hiking!
D
Dylan woonSingapore,May 2025
Unforgettable memories in Everest BC 2025
I would like to sincerely thank you for your incredible guidance and support throughout this unforgettable journey. The Everest Base Camp experience was truly amazing. Being with your team helped us discover new limits of strength and endurance. We hope our paths cross again on another adventure in the future with your company. Special thanks to dear Chetan for her unique patience and constant smile.
I hope see you again.
F
fatemeh vIran,Mar 2025