Embarking on the Everest Base Camp trek is a soul-stirring adventure that lures bold travelers to the roof of the world. Everest, located at the heart of the Khumbu region in the Solukhumbu district of Nepal, invites trekkers from all over the world to its majestic base camp, unraveling the stories of each traveler that has ever set their foot on the Everest Base Camp.
The journey begins with a thrilling flight to Lukla, a tiny airstrip perched among the towering Himalayas. As trekkers navigate the undulating trails, they are greeted by the harmonious blend of alpine meadows, ancient rhododendron forests, and the distant melodies of mountain streams. The trek unfolds like a storybook, revealing the vibrant tapestry of Sherpa culture and traditions. Namche Bazaar, a lively mountain town, offers a respite for acclimatization and exploration, where trekkers can immerse themselves in the local way of life, from colorful market stalls to centuries-old monasteries.
Beyond the physical challenge and the jaw-dropping landscapes, the Everest Base Camp trek is an odyssey of self-discovery. It is not just an adventure; it is an immersive experience that leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of those who dare to venture into the heart of the Himalayas.
Permits required for the Everest Base Camp Trek
The permits required for the Everest Base Camp trek are as follows:
Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit
The Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit is a newly introduced permit that is issued by the local government in the Khumbu region.
Foreign nationals, including SAARC citizens, can get Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit, paying a fee of NPR 2,000 per person for the first four weeks. After four weeks, the cost of the permit goes to Rs. 2,500 per person (No VAT applicable). You will need your passport with you to get this permit.
Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
Everest Base Camp is located within Sagarmatha National Park, and trekkers need to obtain a permit to enter the park. The permit is issued by the Nepal Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation.
You can acquire this permit from Nepal Tourism Board Office, Pradarshani Marg as well as at Sagarmatha National Park Entry Gate in Monjo. However, during peak trek seasons, you might need to stand in a queue for a long time. So, we advise you to get this permit in Kathmandu as soon as possible.
FAQs
How cold is the Everest Base Camp trek?
The temperature during the Everest Base Camp trek can vary significantly based on the time of year and the altitude. During spring (March to May) the daytime temperature hovers around 17°C at lower altitudes, and 10°C as you climb higher. But it’ll drop in the nighttime to somewhere between -5°C to -10°C. Autumn (September to November) is similar. By winter (December to February) the temperatures will drop. Anticipate daytime temperatures ranging from just above freezing to around 10°C, and during the night temperatures can go as low as -10°C. Whatever time of year you visit, then, be sure to pack some warm clothes.
Packing list for the Everest Base Camp Trek
Clothes
- Waterproof jacket
- Lightweight Down Jacket
- Waterproof trousers
- Lightweight trekking trousers
- Hiking shorts (if trekking in the summer)
- Thermals (top and bottom, merino ideal)
- Two to three trekking t-shirts/shirts
- Fleece or warm mid-layer
- Waterproof thick gloves
- Glove liners
- Hiking socks and lighter walking socks
- Wool hat
- Sun hat
- Sunglasses
- Spare underwear
- Buff or similar
- One pair of worn-in, waterproof hiking boots
- One pair of lightweight trainers (for the camp, in the evenings)
Tech items
- Powerbank
- Universal plug adaptor
- Charging cables
- Phone / iPod /Kindle
Toiletries
- Biodegradable wet wipes
- Hand gel
- Small biodegradable bags to take toilet tissue off the mountain
- Toilet paper
- Sunscreen & lip block
- Personal medication
First Aid Kit, including:
- Anti-Diarrhoea Tablets (Imodium)
- Painkillers
- Anti-inflammatories
- Throat Lozenges
- Rehydration Sachets
- Blister Plasters
- Vaseline – to rub on feet to reduce friction
- Diamox for altitude sickness (only after consultation with a medical professional)
Other items
- Trekking poles
- Travel towel
- Two water bottles (one liter each)
- Metal SIGG bottle (useful to fill with hot water to use as a hot water bottle at bedtime)
- Water purification tablets/systems, such as Lifestraw or SteriPEN
- Crampons or chained spikes that will fit any boot, if you don’t have crampon-suitable boots (for winter departures between November and March)
- Day pack with rain cover (30 liters +)
- Rucksack or duffel bag (for the porters to carry overnight kit). If you’re wondering what size duffel bag is for Everest Base Camp, around 65 liters should be enough.
Accommodation during the Everest Base Camp trek
Accommodations along the Everest Base Camp trek consist mainly of teahouses, and modest mountain lodges providing essential amenities for trekkers. These teahouses offer twin-sharing rooms with basic bedding and shared or sometimes private bathrooms. Communal dining areas often have wood-burning stoves for warmth, especially at higher elevations.
Meals, including local and international options, are provided, and some teahouses may offer hot showers for an extra fee. Availability of Wi-Fi and charging facilities varies, and it’s advisable to book accommodations in advance during peak trekking seasons.
While the accommodations are basic, they offer a charming and authentic experience, allowing trekkers to connect with the local culture and the warmth of Sherpa hospitality.
Trip Fact
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5,550M
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Feb - mid-April | Sept - late Nov
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Kathmandu
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Kathmandu
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130KM
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Tea house
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Private Vehicle | Domestic Flight
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All meals during trek
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English, Hindi, Chinese
Overview
Everest Base Camp Trek is the most popular, exotic and adventurous trekking package in Nepal. This fascinating trekking destination in Khumbu region is flourished with adventurous trekking trails, snow-covered Himalayan serene, a lush green forest of rhododendron and oak, various coloured and cultural settlements of Sherpa people and much more exotic sightseeing and cultural tour within. This delighted trek will let you explore the finest sightseeing areas that offer an epic panorama view of mighty Himalayas of this region such as Mt. Everest 8,848m, Mt.Thamserku, Mt. Khangtega, Mt. Ama Dablam 6,812m, Mt.Lhotse 8,516m, Mt.Nuptse 7,855m, Mt.Pomari 7,161m, Mt. Kwangde-Ri, Mt.Makalu 8,463m and more than 150 other high mountains.
Everest Base Camp Trek starts with a scenic flight from Kathmandu all the way to Lukla (2820m), one of the most treacherous airstrips in the world. Upon your arrival at Lukla, our representative will assist you and then we start our walking from Lukla ascending all the way to the lap of Mt Everest. Our trekking trail passes via fascinating cultural and sightseeing destinations. We pass through Namche Bazaar (the gateway town to Everest), and Tengboche (visit the oldest and historical Buddhist monasteries and Everest view). Commencing this awe-inspiring trek into the Everest region will let you with exotic memories and adventurous fun.
Highlights
- Tengboche, Dingboche, and Lobuche Sherpa village and Culture
- Encounter with amazing flora and fauna such as Himalayan Yak, Danfe, and Rhododendron forests.
- Panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges of the Everest region such as Thamserku (6623m), Ama Dablam (6812m), Nuptse (7861m), Cho Oyu (8188m), Lhotse (8516m), Island Peak (6160m)
- Hike to Kala Patthar(5555m) from where a magnificent view of sunrise and panoramic views of the Mount Everest (8848m) can be observed
- Everest Base Camp (5310m)
