The Ultimate Guide to Conquering the Everest Base Camp Trek

Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime? The Everest Base Camp Trek is a bucket-list experience that draws thousands of adventurers each year. But conquering this challenging feat requires more than just physical endurance; it takes careful planning, preparation, and knowledge of the terrain and weather conditions. That’s where this ultimate guide comes in. As a seasoned trekker and expert in all things Everest, I’ve put together a comprehensive resource that covers every aspect of the trek, from choosing the right gear to navigating the trails to acclimatizing to the high altitude. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a first-time trekker, this guide will provide you with the tools and information you need to successfully summit the base camp of the world’s highest peak. So, strap on your boots, grab your backpack, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey to the top of the world!

Features:

– Experienced guides and porters
– Fully supported trek with all meals and accommodation included
– Trek through the Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
– Visit the famous Namche Bazaar and Tengboche Monastery
– Trek to the base camp of Mount Everest at 5,364 meters (17,598 feet)

Benefits:

– Experience the adventure of a lifetime
– Challenge yourself physically and mentally
– Immerse yourself in the unique culture and hospitality of Nepal
– See some of the most stunning mountain landscapes in the world
– Create memories that will last a lifetime

Food and water on the Trek

Food and water are essential for your energy and hydration during the trek. Most teahouses and lodges offer a variety of meals, including Nepali, Tibetan, and Western cuisine. The meals are usually hearty and filling, with plenty of carbohydrates and proteins to sustain you during the long hours of walking.

It is advisable to carry water purification tablets or a water filter to purify the water before drinking. You can also buy bottled water, but it is not environmentally friendly and can get expensive.

Altitude sickness and how to prevent it

Altitude sickness is a common condition that affects trekkers at high altitudes. It can cause symptoms like headache, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. To prevent altitude sickness, it is essential to acclimatize properly by following a gradual ascent and taking rest days to allow your body to adjust to the altitude.

You can also take medication like acetazolamide to prevent altitude sickness. However, it is advisable to consult a doctor before taking any medication.

Everest Base Camp Packing list

Everest Base Camp Packing List can be overwhelming, but it is crucial to pack wisely to ensure that you have everything you need for the journey. Here are some essentials you should pack:

• Hiking boots: Invest in a good pair of hiking boots that are comfortable and provide adequate support and traction.
• Warm clothing: Temperatures can drop significantly at high altitudes, so pack warm layers, including a down jacket, fleece, and thermal wear.
• Sleeping bag: You will need a good quality sleeping bag suitable for cold weather conditions.
• Backpack: Choose a backpack that is lightweight and has ample space to carry your essentials.
• Headlamp: A headlamp is essential for navigating in the dark.
• Water bottle: Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the trek.

Remember to pack light and carry only the essentials. You will be carrying your backpack for long hours, so avoid overpacking.

Best Time for Everest Base Camp Trek

The best time for the Everest base camp trek is from March to May and September to November. These are the peak trekking seasons when the weather is stable, and the skies are clear, allowing for stunning views of the Himalayas.

During the peak seasons, the trails can get crowded, and the accommodation can get fully booked. Therefore, it is advisable to book your trek well in advance to secure your spot.

If you prefer a quieter trek and don’t mind the colder weather, you can also trek during the winter months of December to February. However, be prepared for colder temperatures and possible snowfall, which can make the trek more challenging.

Everest Base Camp Temperature

The temperature at Everest Base Camp varies significantly depending on the season. Here’s an overview of the typical temperatures you might experience:

Spring (March to May)

• Daytime: Temperatures range from -5°C to 15°C (23°F to 59°F).
• Nighttime: Temperatures can drop to -15°C to -20°C (5°F to -4°F).

Summer (June to August)

• Daytime: Temperatures range from 0°C to 20°C (32°F to 68°F).
• Nighttime: Temperatures can drop to -5°C to -10°C (23°F to 14°F).
• Note: This season also coincides with the monsoon, leading to more precipitation and potentially challenging conditions.

Autumn (September to November)

• Daytime: Temperatures range from -5°C to 15°C (23°F to 59°F).
• Nighttime: Temperatures can drop to -10°C to -20°C (14°F to -4°F).

Winter (December to February)

• Daytime: Temperatures range from -10°C to 5°C (14°F to 41°F).
• Nighttime: Temperatures can plummet to -20°C to -30°C (-4°F to -22°F).

Additional Considerations:

• Wind Chill: The wind chill can make it feel significantly colder than the actual temperature.
• Altitude Effects: The high altitude can exacerbate the cold, especially at night.

Safety and emergency procedures on the Trek

The Himalayan Trekking Everest Base Camp can be dangerous, and it is essential to take safety precautions and be prepared for emergencies. Always trek with a guide or a porter who knows the terrain and can help you in case of an emergency.

Carry a first aid kit with basic medication and supplies like bandages, antiseptic cream, and pain relievers. It is also advisable to have travel insurance that covers emergency medical ev

HOW TO PREPARE YOURSELF FOR THE TREKKING AND EBC TREK?

Preparing yourself physically and mentally for the trek to Everest Base Camp is essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some tips to help you prepare for the trek:

1. Start training early: The Everest Base Camp Trek is a physically demanding one, so it is important to start preparing yourself well in advance. You can start with regular cardio exercises, such as jogging, cycling, and hiking, to build your endurance and stamina.
2. Strength training: Strengthen your leg muscles with exercises like squats, lunges, and calf raises, as they will be the primary muscles used during the trek. Also, work on your core and upper body strength with exercises like push-ups, planks, and dumbbell rows.
3. Acclimatize: The altitude can be a challenge during the trek, so it is important to acclimatize properly. Plan your itinerary to allow for a gradual increase in altitude, and take rest days to help your body adjust to the altitude.
4. Eat a healthy diet: A nutritious and balanced diet will help you build your energy levels and strength for the trek. Focus on high-carbohydrate and high-protein foods, such as whole grains, lean meats, fruits, and vegetables.
5. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, is essential to stay hydrated during the trek. Carry a water bottle with you and drink at least 3-4 liters of water per day.
6. Pack smart: Pack light but with essential items for the trek, including proper hiking boots, warm and comfortable clothing, rain gear, and a good quality sleeping bag.
7. Mental preparation: The trek can be physically and mentally challenging, so it is important to prepare yourself mentally. Set realistic goals, maintain a positive attitude, and be mentally prepared to handle unpredictable weather and challenging terrain.
8. Consult a doctor: Before embarking on the trek, it is important to consult with a doctor, particularly if you have a pre-existing medical condition. Get any necessary vaccinations and carry essential medication for the trek.

By following these tips and taking the time to prepare yourself physically and mentally, you can increase your chances of having a safe and enjoyable trek to Everest Base Camp.

Tips for a successful Everest Base Camp Trek

Here are some tips to help you have a successful Everest Base Camp Trek:

1. Trek with a guide or a porter who knows the terrain and can help you in case of an emergency.
2. Follow a gradual ascent and take rest days for acclimatization.
3. Stay hydrated and eat well.
4. Pack light and carry only the essentials.
5. Familiarize yourself with the terrain, weather conditions, and altitude.
6. Be prepared for emergencies and carry a first aid kit and travel insurance.

Relatate Picture Gallery

Trip Itinerary

Outline Itinerary

• DAY 01: ARRIVAL IN KATHMANDU TRANSFER TO HOTEL
• DAY 02: FLY TO LUKLA, TREK TO PHAKDING (2,651M/8,700FT) 3 – 4 HOURS
• DAY 03: PHAKDING TO NAMCHE BAZAAR (3,438M/11,280 FT): 11KM, 5 – 6 HOURS
• DAY 04: ACCLIMATIZATION DAY – NAMCHE BAZAAR: (3,440M/11,284FT)
• DAY 05: NAMCHE BAZAAR TO PHORTSE (3,870M/12,694FT): 10KM, 5- 6 HOURS
• DAY 06: PHORTSE TO DINGBOCHE (4,360 M/14,300 FT): 9KM, 5 – 6 HOURS
• DAY 07: DINGBOCHE ACCLIMATIZATION DAY
• DAY 08: DINGBOCHE TO LOBUCHE (4910 M) 5/6 HOURS
• DAY 09: LOBUCHE TO GORAK SHEP (5170 M/16,961FT), VISIT EVEREST BASE CAMP (5364 M/17,594 FT)
• DAY 10: GORAK SHEP TO KALA PATTHAR (5,545M/18,192FT) TO PHERICHE (4,288M/14,070FT) 7-8 HOURS
• DAY 11: PHERICHE TO NAMCHE BAZAAR (3,440M/11,280 FT): 20KM, 6 – 7 HOURS
• DAY 12: NAMCHE BAZAAR TO LUKLA (2,800M/9,186FT): 19KM, 6 – 7 HOURS
• DAY 13: FLY TO KATHMANDU 30 MINUTES
• DAY 14: FINAL INTERNATIONAL DEPARTURE BACK TO HOME

Cost Details

Cost Includes

1. Airport / Hotel / Airport pick up and Drop by private car/van/bus.
2. Local transport from the hotel to the domestic airport and after the trip airport to the hotel. The main peak season is from the hotel to Manthali airport, and the airport is returned to the hotel by jeep or van.
3. Hotel in Kathmandu: 2 Nights Accommodation for 3***** Star Category Double Bed Private twin Sharing with Breakfast.
4. Both Way Domestic Air Ticket: Kathmandu to Lukla and Return to Kathmandu. Main Peak season is from October to November and March to April from Manthali Airport.
5. All standard meals: (12 breakfasts, 12 lunches, and 11 dinners ) during the trek
6. All Trekking Permit (Sagarmatha National Park Permit) and Local Permit.
7. All Tea House Accommodation: 11 Nights accommodation in a tea house tourist standard with Double bed twin sharing a private room during the trek.
8. Trekking Guide License Holder: Government License Holder Trekking Guide An experienced, helpful, friendly, and English-speaking Trekking Guide. His well-paid salary, meals, accommodation insurance, Flight ticket, etc.
9. Trekking porter: Expert Local Strong Porter for two people 1 porter sharing Maximum 10 kg per person. 1 porter will carry a Maximum of 20 kg. his food, accommodation, and insurance. No Porter for Solo Trekker.
10. After the successful trip, Everest Trekking Routes will provide an Adventure Certificate.
11. Arrangement of Emergency Helicopter service which will be paid for by your Travel insurance company.
12. All Government Taxes and Service charges.

Cost Excludes

1. All Meals & Extra Night Accommodation in Kathmandu. due to arriving early on the mountain or as you like extra night.
2. Personal expenses (bar bills, beer, coke, a bottle of water, hot water, phone call, laundry service, Helicopter rescue, Electronic device recharge such as Mobile, Camera, etc.)
3. Personal Trekking Equeptment. what you need read more here.
4. Tips for guide, porters, and driver.

Trip Map

FAQ

What is the Everest Base Camp Trek?

The Everest Base Camp Trek is a renowned trekking route in the Everest region of Nepal, leading trekkers to the base camp of Mount Everest. It offers stunning views of the Himalayan peaks and provides an opportunity to experience the Sherpa culture.

How long does the trek take?

The trek typically takes around 10 to 12 days, depending on the route chosen and the pace of the trekker. This duration includes acclimatization days to prevent altitude sickness.

What is the best time to do the trek?

The best time for the Everest Base Camp Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These periods offer stable weather and clear skies, providing excellent views of the mountains.

Do I need prior trekking experience?

Prior trekking experience is not necessary, but it’s recommended to have a reasonable level of fitness and stamina. The trek involves walking for several hours each day at a high altitude, so some level of physical preparation is advisable.

What permits do I need for the trek?

Trekkers require two permits: the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit. These permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or directly in the Everest region.

Is altitude sickness a concern?

Yes, altitude sickness is a potential risk due to the high altitude of the trek. It’s essential to acclimatize properly by ascending gradually and staying hydrated. Trekkers should be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and be prepared to descend if necessary.

What is the accommodation like on the trek?

Accommodation options along the trekking route range from basic tea houses to more comfortable lodges. Tea houses provide simple rooms with shared facilities, while some lodges offer private rooms and attached bathrooms. It’s advisable to book accommodation in advance during the peak trekking seasons.

What should I pack for the trek?

Essential items include trekking boots, warm clothing layers, a sleeping bag, a waterproof jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, a first aid kit, and personal toiletries. It’s also crucial to carry sufficient snacks and water bottles during the trek.

Are there any communication facilities along the trek?

Mobile phone coverage is available in some parts of the trekking route, but it can be unreliable. Many tea houses and lodges offer Wi-Fi for a fee, but the connection may be slow or intermittent.

Do I need a guide/porter for the trek?

While it’s possible to trek independently, hiring a trekking guide and/or porter is recommended for safety and convenience, especially for those without prior trekking experience. Guides provide valuable assistance with navigation, cultural insights, and emergency support, while porters can help carry heavy backpacks, allowing trekkers to focus on enjoying the journey.

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Latest Customer Reviews

Mark Gamboa

Vancouver, British Columbia,

Excellent Verified Purchase

Everest Base Camp Trek with Suk Bahadur Gurung

Searching for the perfect company to embark on the EBC trek was not easy when doing research on who to go with. I happen to have really lucked out by choosing to go with Everest Trekking Routes, because they were great, through and through.

I did the trek in November but started inquiring with them back in February. Rabin is the CEO of the company, and he has helped me in every way possible. He was prompt in answering my questions via email and meticulously arranged the EBC trek, which felt customized to all my needs. In person, he was kind and courteous. And my guide Suk was friendly and helpful throughout the hike. He had brought all the necessary medication for me and asked every day how I was feeling. Suk is also a very good card player and was grateful for his company on the 12-day hike/ Kathmandu City Hike.

I’m sure most of you reading this have gone with some tour company elsewhere in the world, and perhaps you might agree that most of them have treated you as simply a commodity in the assembly line. By going with Everest Trekking Routes, I never felt that. Rabin and Suk took care of me from beginning to end, and I sing all their praises for getting me to Everest Base Camp, which was a major deal for me and my friends and Family. Rabin and Suk became family to me. Thank you for everything, guys!

Guided by: Suk Bahadur Gurung

Antonia Carol Suning

Sabah Malaysia,

Excellent Verified Purchase

Everest Base Camp & Lobuche Peak with Rabin Gurung

It was such a hard fight to join this trip. Because I had to work hard to find funding for this training. It is the first summit I attended team NOBAT ( No Boundary Adventurers Association Sabah ) to the Himalayas with AMG (Adventure Mountain Guide Rabin Gurung), I gained a great experience, which Mr. Rabin Gurung was very friendly and kind as a mountain guide who experience he made this trip so enjoyable, and build a better friendship.

I would like to thank him for giving the best service to us, this is the first time I walk for 21 days hahaha. In every step, he remained faithful to accompany and not leave us, even though there are 2 people in our group who did not succeed, and he sent us back to our high camp Lobuche to support the spirit reaching the summit of Lobuche Peak Climbing.

Nice trip and good services such as tents, food, and stories you tell about your family, it is good, and I enjoyed the trip because you protected me and my team so much.

Keep up the good work you AMG! I am happy to see and to know you! Good luck! * extra bonus able to speak Bahasa Melayu! hehe

Guided by: Rabin Gurung

Jaistin Tamin

Sabah Malaysia,

Excellent Verified Purchase

Everest Base Camp, Island Peak, Lobuche Peak & Chulu West Peak with Rabin Gurung

Sewaktu saya ditugaskan oleh persatuan NOBAT untuk mendapatkan khidmat ‘trekking guide’ bagi ekspedisi NOBAT Himalaya 2013, saya telah menghubungi beberapa ‘trekking agent’ di Kathmandu melalui emel. Saya tertarik dengan laman web Rabin Gurung dan ‘testimonial’ dari beberapa individu yang penat mendapatkan khidmatnya. Rabin memberikan tawaran kos yang paling berpatutan. Dari raut wajahnya saja saya yakin dia adalah orang yang jujur dan’friendly’. Satu kelebihan lain ialah dia boleh berbahasa Malaysia.

Apabila bertemu dengan Rabin buat pertama kalinya di Kathmandu, memang sah bahawa kami telah membuat pilihan yang tepat. Sepanjang trekking, Rabin sangat professional dalam khidmatnya. Beliau flexible dan mudah diajak berunding. Kami tidak lagi menganggapnya sebagai pemandu jalan tetapi sebagai sahabat..kepada sesiapa yang ingin trekking di Himalaya, sila dapatkan khidmat Rabin. Saya percaya anda bakal membuat pilihan yang tepat.
Email: cliffhanger_08@yahoo.com

Guided by: Rabin Gurung

Henry Leung

Hongkong China,

Excellent Verified Purchase

Everest Base Camp Trekking with Rabin Gurung

A professional guide with a passion brought us going to EBC, Kala Patthar and Island Peak Summit. He can manage all the matter letting us trek with no worry. There were three days no flight from Lukla back to Kathmandu due to bad weather, but we can still on schedule. Thanks for his help and made this trip memorable. He is Rabin Gurung.

Visited April 2017

Email: setsuna1101@gmail.com

Guided by: Rabin Gurung

Amy Cheung

Hongkong China,

Excellent Verified Purchase

Everest Base Camp and Island Peak Climbing

I’m so grateful that I finally finished the trekking, and this must be credited to our professional guide, Rabin! He is so nice! He cared for us so much, and greeted us with his big warming smile during the whole journey! Before this trekking, the highest place I had ever been was only 934 meters, I was so worried about high altitude problem. But In fact, my adaptability was pretty good, cuz Rabin’s trekking plan was so suitable for me that I finally reached EBC and Kala Pattar under the snow and strong winds! When we backed to Island Peak Base Camp after the summit, he brought hot drinks and biscuits and waited for us on the way, that was so sweet and we were really really exhausted and hungry at that time, he just like an angel showed up to us!. It’s a great trekking journey and I really thank Rabin’s guiding and accompanying us! We shared precious moments on this journey!.

Guided by: Rabin Gurung

Christopher Masson

London, UK,

Excellent Verified Purchase

Everest base camp trek 12 days including Kala patthar

This was my first time trekking and the whole experience was unforgettable thanks to the help of my guide phul and organised by Rabin gurung from Everest trekking routes . Anything I needed he was more than happy to help. I would recommend this trek to anyone wanting a once in a lifetime experience in Nepal.

Source by: TripAdvisor

Guided by: Rabin Gurung

Sebastian

Germany,

Excellent Verified Purchase

Breathtaking! - in every possible way Everest Base Camp

My once-in-a-lifetime experience with colleagues from Everest Trekking Routes Pvt. Ltd. started in the early season in 2023 in mid-February. After planning the trip without any problems and answering all the necessary questions via email or WhatsApp, I was met by Rabin (the boss of the trekking agency) at the airport in Kathmandu and then taken to the hotel, where I was finally able to meet my guide for the 12-day tour to Mount Everest Base Camp. Su Sil is an ideal hiking companion who, in addition to his profound knowledge of the region around Mount Everest, has a friendly and cheerful manner. The hotel, where I stayed the first night, left nothing to be desired and corresponded to an upper class hotel by Napalese standards.

The next morning, the flight left for Lukla at 7am as planned, Su Sil -my travel guide- had all the necessary documents for the flight ready and the adventure towards Mount Everest began…

My booking included an all-inclusive service, so you got 3 meals a day plus a fruit plate to cover your vitamin needs. The accommodation (tea houses) was chosen by the guide in a sensible and appropriate way along the way. In addition, Su Sil always had all the necessary documents for entering the national park at hand. From an altitude of 5000m above sea level, the altitude slowly began to affect me and I suffered extremely badly from altitude sickness, which manifested itself in headaches, loss of appetite and sleeplessness. However, Su Sil had all the necessary medication with him to reduce the effects of altitude sickness to a minimum. Su Sil could speak and understand English without any problems and could also respond to deep thought processes and follow other conversations without any problems. I also came into contact with other trekking groups, as the open-hearted nature of the trekking guides, often in the evenings by the fireplace in the tea house, led to conversations with people from all over the world, which were intensified by the positive mood of the guides among themselves.

At the end of the almost 2-week trek and after successfully climbing the first base camp of Mount Everest and Kala Patthar (5644m), I was again accommodated in the hotel from the first night for one last night. The hotel also has a spa and wellness area, which was logically used directly. The trekkers’ massage is highly recommended!

All in all, the 12-day trip was an absolutely incredible experience. After having been around the world a lot, my expectations were initially a bit low, but in the middle of the trip they were completely fulfilled by the friendliness of the people, the Nepalese culture and the incomparable beauty of the mountain ranges. I was also able to build up a very friendly relationship with my guide, in which we support each other, talk positively to each other and use every conceivable minute for the most diverse conversations.

Thank you for this experience and I will definitely be back!

Source by: Tripadvidor

Guided by: Sushil Gurung

Christin Kunath

Deutsch,

Excellent Verified Purchase

An unforgettable Trip with a perfect Team with Everest Base Camp Trek

The english communication per E-Mail an WhatsApp with Rabin was obviously struktured. The Time schedule was individually created to our needs. Possible Additions to the Trip were disscussed and added, if they are possible. The Services, which are inclueded on the Trip, are clearly defined, so no misunderstandings could arise. Our Guide Sushil was so courteous and very helpful. All in all an unforgettable Trip with a perfect Team.

We could recommend the relaxed Offseason at EBC in February/March.

Source by: Tripadvisor

Guided by: Sushil Gurung

Judith Janoschka

Deutsch,

Excellent Verified Purchase

Beste Agentur

Rabin kümmert sich von der ersten Kontaktaufnahme bis zur Verabschiedung am Flughafen außergewöhnlich gut und verlässlich um seine Gäste. Er ist bei Fragen immer erreichbar und kümmert sich um individuelle Planänderungen.
Seine Freundlichkeit und seine Versorgung der Gäste ist ganz besonders hervorzuheben.
Mit dem Guide Samuel hatte ich eine tolle und professionelle Begleitung auf meiner Tour. Ich würde immer wieder über Rabin und seine Agentur buchen.
Danke Rabin!

Sources by: Tripadvisor 

Guided by: Sak Bahadur Gurung

Patrick Peh

Singapore,

Excellent Verified Purchase

EBC trekking with family

We did a 12 days EBC trek with our guide Dhansingh Gurung (his whatsapp number is +977-984-34512310 on 17 Nov to 29 Nov 2023. We would like to thanks Dhansingh for making this trip possible because we are a family of 2 adults and 3 children, aged between 14-16 years old. Dhansingh had make our trekking more pleasant and easier by encouraging and taking care of the younger trekkers. I strongly recommended those people who intends to bring their younger family members to engage Dhansingh as your guide. Prior to the trip, many people discouraged me from bringing the young ones to trek 12 days to EBC! But I did not adhere to their advises and carry on the plan. Dhansingh and his team were to professional and attentive to our needs, even on the first day of arrival to Kathumuda. I reckon that there is no regrets to bring the young ones to explore the truly nature of Nepal during the 12 days EBC trek. Please contact Dhansingh if you have any questions and doubts about travelling with young family members to EBC.

Sources by: Tripadvisor

Guided by: Dhansingh Gurung