Many trekkers dream of the Everest Base Camp Trek. This 12-day adventure takes you through the stunning Khumbu region, offering breathtaking views of the world's highest peaks and a chance to experience the vibrant Sherpa culture, visit traditional monasteries, interact with locals, and learn about their way of life.
This guide covers everything you need about the trek, including the itinerary, costs, and essential tips.
Overview of the Everest Base Camp Trek - 12 Days
The Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the most famous treks globally, drawing thousands of adventurers each year. The 12-day itinerary ensures a well-paced journey, allowing for proper acclimatisation while offering a challenging and rewarding experience.
The trek begins with a thrilling flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, one of the world's most exciting and challenging trek. Throughout the trek, you'll be treated to panoramic views of some of the world's highest peaks, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse.
Travelling through the Khumbu region, you will encounter notable landmarks such as Namche Bazaar, Tengboche Monastery, and Kala Patthar. Each offers a unique perspective on the majestic Himalayan landscape.
Highlights of the 12-Day Everest Base Camp Trek
Scenic Flight to Lukla: Begin your adventure with a thrilling flight to Lukla, known for its challenging airstrip and incredible aerial views of the Himalayas.
Namche Bazaar: This bustling Sherpa town is the gateway to the high Himalayas. Enjoy local markets, stunning views of Everest, and Sherpa culture.
Tengboche Monastery: Visit this significant monastery for panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam.
Everest Base Camp: Reaching Everest Base Camp at 5,364 meters is the trek’s highlight, where you stand at the base of the world’s tallest mountain, surrounded by awe-inspiring peaks and the Khumbu Icefall.
Kala Patthar: At 5,545 meters, the hike to Kala Patthar offers the best-unobstructed views of Mount Everest, especially at sunrise or sunset. Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return allows you to enjoy these breathtaking views without the long descent.
Sherpa Culture and Hospitality: Gain insights into Sherpa life, visit monasteries, interact with locals, and experience their warm hospitality.
Diverse Landscapes: Traverse various landscapes, from lush forests to arid high-altitude terrain, showcasing the region’s natural beauty.
High-altitude Glaciers: Walk on the famous Khumbu Glacier, adding a sense of adventure to your trek.
Wildlife and Flora: Spot Himalayan wildlife and enjoy blooming rhododendrons in spring within Sagarmatha National Park.
Sense of Achievement: Feel fulfilled as you reach Everest Base Camp and stand in the shadow of the world’s highest peak.
Memories for a Lifetime: Forge lifelong friendships and create lasting memories with fellow trekkers and guides.
Everest Base Camp Trek Itinerary
This 12-day Everest Base Camp trek itinerary is crafted to ensure a balance between adventure and acclimatisation, allowing you to enjoy the experience while minimising the risk of altitude sickness.
Day 01: Flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,840m/9,316ft) and trek to Phakding (2,610m/8,561ft)
We begin our trek to Phakding from Lukla. The trail gently descends towards the Dudh Koshi River, winding through charming villages and lush forests. We'll spend the night in Phakding, allowing time to rest and adjust to the altitude.
Day 02: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,284ft) - 6 to 7 hours (10.5 km) trek
On the second day of your trek, you'll walk through pine forests and cross the Hillary Suspension Bridge, enjoying views of Mount Thamserku. Before entering Sagarmatha National Park, you'll pass through Benkar, Monjo, and Jorsale. After crossing the confluence of the Dudh Koshi and Bhote Koshi Rivers, you'll get your first view of Mount Everest. You'll continue to Namche Bazaar, the Everest region's central trading hub.
Day 03: First Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,284ft) - 3 to 4 hours trek
We'll trek along the Dudh Koshi River, crossing suspension bridges decorated with prayer flags. As we climb, we'll enjoy stunning views of Mount Thamserku and other peaks. After a challenging ascent, we'll reach Namche Bazaar, a vibrant market town and the gateway to the Khumbu region, where we'll stay overnight to acclimatize.
Day 04: Trek from Namche to Tengboche (3,860m/12,661ft) - 5 to 6 hours (10 km) trek
We’ll focus on acclimatization to help our bodies adjust to the altitude and prevent altitude sickness. This includes a short trek to higher elevations for panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. Later, we’ll explore Namche Bazaar, visiting local markets, monasteries, and museums to learn about Sherpa's culture and traditions.
Day 05: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche (4,410m/14,465ft) - 5 to 6 hours (11 km) trek
Leaving Namche, we head towards Tengboche, known for its renowned Tengboche Monastery, one of the oldest and most prominent in the Everest region. The trail features breathtaking views of Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam as we walk through rhododendron forests and quaint villages. Once in Tengboche, we'll visit the monastery and enjoy its tranquil ambience before spending the night.
Day 06: Second Acclimatization Day at Dingboche (4,410m/14,465ft) - 4 to 5 hours trek
Our trek to Dingboche features scenic landscapes and peaceful valleys. We pass through pine and juniper forests and have chances to see Himalayan wildlife. As we climb, the air thins and temperatures drop. We'll enjoy stunning views of Island Peak and Ama Dablam in Dingboche.
Day 07: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche (4,910m/16,105ft) - 5 to 6 hours (8 km) trek
We'll hike to higher elevations on our acclimatisation day to help our bodies adjust to the thin air. We'll explore nearby hillsides and soak in panoramic Himalayan views. This rest day also allows us to relax and prepare for the challenging days ahead.
Day 08: Trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5,140m/16,860ft) and visit Everest Base Camp (5,364m/17,594ft) - 7 to 8 hours (12 km) trek
We’ll trek to Lobuche, a small settlement surrounded by towering peaks. The trail provides stunning views of the Khumbu Glacier and Himalayan giants. As we climb, the terrain becomes rugged and barren. In Lobuche, we’ll settle in and prepare to visit Everest Base Camp the next day.
Day 9: Hike to Kala Patthar (5550m/18,204ft) and descend to Pheriche (4,240m/13,908ft) - 6 to 7 hours (12 km) trek.
The highlight of our trek is reaching Everest Base Camp, the starting point for climbers heading to the summit. We’ll walk through the rocky Khumbu Glacier moraine, enjoying views of the surrounding peaks. At Everest Base Camp, we'll celebrate and absorb the incredible atmosphere before returning to Gorak Shep for the night.
Day 10: Trek from Pheriche to Namche (3,440m/11,284ft) - 7 to 8 hours (19 km) trek
Before dawn, we’ll undertake a challenging hike to Kala Patthar, a prime viewpoint in the Everest region. From the top, we'll see a stunning sunrise over Mount Everest and nearby peaks like Lhotse, Nuptse, and Pumori. After enjoying the panoramic views, we'll descend to Pheriche for the night.
Day 11: Trek from Namche to Lukla (2,840m/9,316ft) - 6 to 7 hours (18.5 km) trek
Today, we start our trek back to Namche Bazaar, retracing our route through scenic valleys and quaint villages. The trail gradually descends, providing beautiful views of the Himalayas. As we go down, the air will feel thicker and the temperatures warmer, signalling our return to lower altitudes.
Day 12:Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) - 35 minutes flight
Our final day of trekking takes us back to Lukla, where our journey began. We'll traverse familiar trails, passing through rhododendron forests and charming Sherpa villages. Along the way, we'll reflect on the incredible experiences and memories we've made during our trek. Upon reaching Lukla, we'll bid farewell to our porters and guides before enjoying a well-deserved rest at our guesthouse.
