A Complete Beginner’s Guide to Everest Base Camp Trek

Most adventure enthusiasts aspire to embark on an Everest Base Camp trek at least once in their lifetime to witness the highest peak in the world from close. To have a successful and safe journey, one needs to have proper knowledge about the destination. Similarly, the person who wants to do the Everest base camp trek should have proper knowledge about the Everest base camp, the ways to go to Everest Base Camp, and the trek. This blog provides knowledge and a detailed guide to the Everest base camp trek so that you can have a successful and safe journey. By the end of this article, one will get detailed guide knowledge like the best time to trek, the itinerary for the trip, permits and documents, a map for easy navigation, accommodation knowledge, altitude sickness, essential trekking gear, and other information to make your journey memorable.

Introduction about Everest base camp trek

The Everest Base Camp trek is an exciting adventure leading to one of Nepal’s highest spots. There are two Everest Base Camps one is south Everest Base Camp (5364m) which is in Nepal, and another is north Everest Base Camp (5150m), which is in Tibet, China. South base Camp is popular than North base camp as it provides the best trekking experience, higher success rate, beautiful view of Everest from kala pathar and rewarding adventurous feelings. Whereas North Base Camp provides an easy access to clear view of Everest through driving not trekking.

It’s a popular trek in the Solu-Khumbu region, guiding you to the base of Mount Everest, the world’s tallest mountain (known as Sagarmatha in Nepal). The journey begins from Kathmandu, where you’ll fly to Lukla or take a ride to Jiri. When Lukla Airport was not established trekkers used to start their journey from Kathmandu to Jiri and trek from Jiri to Lukla and to Everest base camp. Due to the absence of airport at that time Sir Edmund Hillary and Tensing Norgay sherpa also has to set of this journey from Jiri. Trekking from Jiri will add nearly 10 days more than trekking journey from Lukla which demands more physical strength which may not be appropriate for beginners. But the real trek starts from Lukla.

Lukla, this small town holds historical significance as the starting point for Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay’s Everest ascent about 70 years ago. Starting from Lukla, the trek winds through stunning landscapes, forests, and quaint villages before reaching the base camp. Along the route, you’ll immerse yourself in the Sherpa culture, visit monasteries, and experience local traditions.

The trek typically involves walking 5-7 hours daily on rugged paths at high altitudes, which can be physically challenging. Being physically fit and acclimating correctly is crucial to prevent altitude sickness. This beginner’s guide to Everest Base Camp Trek provides comprehensive information to help you plan your adventure holiday with all the necessary details.

Everything you need to know in a guide to the Everest Base Camp trek:

Here is a sample itinerary for the Everest base camp trek

Day 1: Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,804 meters / 9,199 feet). The flight takes about 30 minutes.

Day 2: Trek from Lukla to Phakding (2,652 meters / 8,701 feet). It takes about 3-4 hours.

Day 3: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440 meters / 11,283 feet). It takes about 6-7 hours. Namche Bazaar is the main village in the area and a good place to get used to the altitude.

Day 4: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,870 meters / 12,694 feet). It takes about 5-6 hours. Tengboche has a beautiful monastery worth visiting.

Day 5: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche (4,410 meters / 14,468 feet). It takes about 5-6 hours. Dingboche is another place to acclimatize.

Day 6: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche (4,940 meters / 16,207 feet). It takes about 5-6 hours.

Day 7: Trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5,170 meters / 16,961 feet). It takes about 5-6 hours. Gorak Shep is the last stop before reaching Base Camp.

Day 8: Trek from Gorak Shep to Everest Base Camp (5,364 meters / 17,598 feet), about 3-4 hours round trip, overnight at Gorak Shep.

Day 9: Hike to Kalapatthar (5,545 meters / 18,192 feet) for stunning views, then trek to Pheriche (4,288 meters / 14,070 feet). It takes about 6-7 hours.

Day 10: Trek from Pheriche to Namche Bazaar, about 6-7 hours.

Day 11: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla, about 6-7 hours.

Day 12: Fly from Lukla back to Kathmandu.

This itinerary is a basic outline and can be adjusted based on your preferences and schedule.

Average Cost for Everest Base Camp Trek:

The cost of the Everest Base Camp Trek depends on several factors, including the duration of the trek, the chosen route, mode of transportation, type of accommodation, and meal preferences.

The cost of the Everest Base Camp Trek ranges from $1,500 to $3,000 per person on average, including flights from Kathmandu.

Permits for Everest Trek:

To trek to Everest Base Camp, you must obtain trekking permits from the Government of Nepal. There are two types of permits:

1. Sagarmatha National Park Permit:

This permit allows entry into Sagarmatha National Park, home to Mount Everest. It costs NPR 3,400 (about $30) for foreign nationals and NPR 1,500 (about $15) for SAARC nationals.

2. Local Tax Permit (Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit):

This permit is mandatory for all trekkers, whether national or international. It costs approximately NPR 2,000 (about $20) for foreign nationals and NPR 1,500 (about $15) for SAARC nationals.

3. place to obtain permits:

You can obtain the National Park permits and the local tax permit card at the Jorsale office in the Solu Khumbu district. Jorsale is situated between Lukla and Namche, which marks the beginning of the trekking route in the Everest region.

4. Things to remember to obtain permits:

• Documents: A valid Passport, 2-4 passport sized photos and Valid visas
• A trekking licensed guide: Now it has become mandatory to trek with guide in Nepal as per Nepal Tourism Board. So, you will only get the permits only if you hire a licensed trekking guide. You can get more info about this in our blog: can you do solo trekking in Nepal? 

Note: The cost of permits and the local tax permit may change, so it is recommended that you verify the current rates before beginning your trek.

If you organize the trek with the help of Trekking agency, then they will arrange everything for you including the permits.

 Lodges in the Everest Region

You will stay in lodges or tea houses during the Everest Base Camp Trek. These basic accommodations include a bed, blankets, and toilet facilities. Most lodges also have dining areas where meals are served. The cost of lodges varies depending on their location and the facilities they offer. On average, you can expect to pay approximately $5 to $200 per night for a lodge room.

What is the best season to trek?

The best season for trekking to Everest Base Camp depends on your preferences and your comfort level with weather conditions.

The trek can be undertaken year-round, but the peak seasons are September to November and March to May. The weather is typically straightforward and dry during these months, offering spectacular mountain views. From December to February, the shoulder season is also suitable for trekking with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. However, nights can be freezing, and snow may make trails slippery.

From June to August, the monsoon season is not recommended for trekking. Trails are wet and slippery during this time, and clouds often obscure mountain views.

How Difficult is the Everest base camp trek?

The Everest Base Camp Trek is considered moderate to challenging, depending on your physical fitness and acclimatization.

The trek typically involves walking for 5-7 hours daily on rough trails at high altitudes. The highest point is Kalapatthar (5,644 meters/18,517 feet), which can be physically demanding.

Being in good physical condition and acclimatizing properly are crucial to avoiding altitude sickness. Hiring a guide and porter to assist with the trek is advisable.

You can check trip grading information for information and difficulty level.

Map route for Everest base camp trek with height

1. Lukla (2,864 meters/9,396 feet)
2. Phakding (2,652 meters/8,701 feet)
3. Namche Bazaar (3,440 meters/11,283 feet)
4. Tengboche (3,855 meters/12,647 feet)
5. Dingboche (4,317 meters/14,163 feet)
6. Lobuche (4,924 meters/16,154 feet)
7. Gorak Shep (5,164 meters/16,942 feet)
8. Everest Base Camp (5,364 meters/17,598 feet)
9. Kalapatthar (5,644 meters/18,517 feet)
10. Pheriche (4,255 meters/13,959 feet)
11. Namche Bazaar
12. Lukla

Is the Everest Base Camp trek worth it?

Whether the Everest Base Camp Trek is worthwhile depends on your personal interests and objectives. If you’re an avid trekker who relishes challenging hikes in breathtaking landscapes, the Everest Base Camp Trek is undoubtedly worth undertaking. This trek offers a unique opportunity to witness some of the world’s highest peaks, including Mount Everest, and to immerse yourself in the rich culture and lifestyle of the local Sherpa community.

However, the Everest Base Camp Trek may not suit you if you lack trekking experience or feel uneasy about physically demanding activities at high altitudes. The trek involves 5-7 hours daily on rugged trails at significant elevations, which can be strenuous. It’s essential to be in excellent physical condition and to acclimatize properly to prevent altitude sickness.

Guide and Porter in Everest base camp trek

During the Everest Base Camp Trek, you can hire a guide and a porter to assist with the journey. A guide is a professional with extensive knowledge of the trek route, local culture, customs, and natural history of the region. A porter is a local individual who transports your luggage and other belongings during the trek.

Hiring a guide and a porter has several benefits:

1. Safety: A guide is trained to handle emergencies and to ensure your safety during the trek. They are also familiar with the local conditions and can advise you on the best route and places to stay.
2. Knowledge: A guide extensively knows the trek route, the local culture and customs, and the region’s natural history. They can provide valuable insights and information about the places you visit and the people you meet.
3. Convenience: A porter will carry your luggage and other belongings during the trek, which frees you up to focus on the hike and enjoy the scenery. This can be especially helpful if you are not comfortable carrying a heavy load or if you are not physically fit.
4. Support for local communities: By hiring a guide and a porter, you support the local economy and contribute to developing the communities you visit.

Selecting a reputable guide and porter service and negotiating the terms and conditions before beginning the trek is crucial. You should also hire a guide and porter through a reputable trekking agency to ensure they are properly trained and qualified and adhere to ethical practices.

Can a beginner climb Everest Base Camp?

The trek involves walking for 5-7 hours daily on rough trails at high altitudes, which can be physically demanding. Being in good physical shape and acclimatizing correctly is crucial to avoid altitude sickness.

While the Everest Base Camp Trek isn’t a technical climb, it requires solid physical fitness and endurance. If you’re a beginner trekker or uncomfortable with strenuous activities at high altitudes, this trek may not be suitable.

However, beginners can undertake the Everest Base Camp Trek with proper training and preparation. Starting with shorter and easier treks helps build endurance and acclimatize to the altitude. Before starting the trek, it is advisable to consult with your doctor for a thorough medical check-up.

Hiring a guide and porter is also recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. A guide offers valuable insights into the trek route, local culture, and customs, helping you navigate challenges along the way.

Is it hard to breathe at Everest Base Camp?

The air is thin at high altitudes and contains less oxygen, making breathing more difficult. During the Everest Base Camp Trek, as you ascend to higher altitudes, you may experience symptoms of altitude sickness such as shortness of breath, headache, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. These symptoms occur because the body struggles to receive sufficient oxygen for the muscles and brain.

Acclimatizing properly and ascending gradually is crucial to reduce the risk of altitude sickness. It’s also advisable to stay hydrated, consume a diet rich in carbohydrates, and avoid alcohol and tobacco. If you develop severe symptoms of altitude sickness, it’s important to descend to a lower altitude and seek medical assistance.

Do phones work on Everest?

During the Everest Base Camp Trek, depending on coverage and your service provider, you may be able to make and receive calls and texts on your phone.

Several mobile phone service providers in Nepal offer coverage in the Solu-Khumbu region, where the Everest Base Camp Trek is located. These providers include Nepal Telecom, Ncell, and Smart Telecom.

However, coverage can be inconsistent and vary based on location and time of year. Some areas may have no coverage at all, while others may have good reception. It’s advisable to check with your service provider before starting the trek to inquire about coverage in the Solu-Khumbu region.

Additionally, carrying a satellite phone or satellite messaging device as a backup is recommended if you encounter areas with no phone coverage or experience an emergency.

Can you fly a drone around Everest Base Camp?

It is not allowed to fly drones around the Everest Base Camp or in the Sagarmatha National Park, home to the highest mountain in the world, Mount Everest (also known as Sagarmatha in Nepal).

Sagarmatha National Park is a protected area, and drones are not allowed within its boundaries. Flying a drone in the park can disturb the natural environment, wildlife, and local communities and pose a safety risk.

In addition, flying drones at high altitudes can be challenging due to the thin air and the strong winds. The batteries may drain faster, and the drones may not perform as well at lower altitudes.

When visiting Everest Base Camp and Sagarmatha National Park, respecting the local laws and regulations and protecting the natural environment is essential.

Essential Equipment gear list for Everest base camp trek

Here is a list of essential equipment that you should consider bringing on the Everest Base Camp Trek:

Hiking boots: Sturdy and comfortable hiking boots are necessary for the Everest Base Camp Trek. Look for boots that are waterproof and provide good ankle support.

Warm layers: The weather in the Solu-Khumbu region can be unpredictable, with warm days and cold nights. Pack warm layers such as a fleece, a down jacket, and a waterproof shell to stay comfortable and warm.

Hat, gloves, and scarf: Temperatures can drop significantly at high altitudes, especially at night. Bring a hat, gloves, and scarf to protect your head, hands, and neck from the cold.

Sleeping bag: While most lodges provide blankets, bringing your own sleeping bag ensures extra warmth and comfort.

Headlamp: A headlamp is essential since lodges have limited electricity, and you may need to move around in the dark.

Sunscreen and sunglasses: UV rays are stronger at higher altitudes. Pack sunscreen and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes from sunburn and glare.

Water bottle and water purification tablets: Staying hydrated is crucial during the trek. Carry a refillable water bottle and water purification tablets to treat water from local sources.

First-aid kit: Pack a small first-aid kit with essentials such as painkillers, bandages, and antiseptic cream.

Cash and credit card: Bring cash and a credit card for emergencies and to pay for accommodations, meals, and other expenses along the way.

Passport and trekking permits: Remember your passport and necessary permits, such as the Sagarmatha National Park Permit and local tax permit.

This is just a general list of essential Everest Base Camp Trek equipment. The actual items you need may vary depending on the season, the duration of the trek, and your personal preferences. It is important to do some research and to pack appropriately for the trek. Get complete information by checking the link about the trekking equipment checklist.

Overall, the Everest Base Camp Trek is a challenging but rewarding adventure that offers a unique opportunity to see some of the world’s highest peaks and experience the culture and way of life of the local Sherpa people. If you are an avid trekker and enjoy challenging hikes in beautiful landscapes, the Everest Base Camp Trek is definitely worth it.