Everest Base Camp Trek is the kind of adventure that is almost on every trekker's bucket list. You might have trekked to several routes and several mountains. But there is nothing better than the Everest Base Camp. Your adventure usually begins from Lukla and takes you up to an altitude of 5,545m. (18192ft.) in Kalapatthar. From here you can see Mount Everest in such a beautiful way that you will always have the impression of it. Not just the Kalapathhar but also you will reach the Base camp of Mount Everest which lies at an altitude of 5,364m. (17,598ft.).
Along the trails, the Sherpa villages and Sherpa people will always be so good in their hospitality. And the flow sound of Dudhkoshi (Milk River) for around 3 days the sounds that you will never forget. You can also see the Danphe (an endangered and National bird of Nepal) along the way. The Khumbu region is always the best to explore in seasons that basically run for almost 8 months in a year.
This 15-day trek will take you from a hilly region where all you see is green hills to a completely white region of mountains. We guarantee you that if you book this trek then there is no doubt that you will ever regret it. Rather you will always remember Nepal when you remember the mountains.
In this detailed trekking to Everest Base Camp Price and Itinerary package, you will get everything you need to know about your trip.
What to Expect in Everest Base Camp Trek?
The first thing you can expect on this trek is the completion of your bucket list. As the Everest region requires enough physical fitness and training for almost 3 months before the trip, the expectation is always good.
What we recommend you expect on the trek is; the Sherpas, the children, the cultures, and the cold forgetting the beauty of the mountains. If you talk about the Sherpas, they are the indigenous people of the Khumbu region. The major occupation of these people is none other than tourism. For six months whenever there is the best trekking season to Everest Base Camp, they treat you with so much great hospitality.
The respect you get from the Sherpas here is that you never get anywhere in the world. Moreover, the first person to climb Mt. Everest Mr. Tenzing Norgey was also a Sherpa. He helped Sir Edmund Hillary to get to the summit of Everest before anyone else. Just imagine if one Sherpa did such a great achievement what others are capable of. They will help you as porters, trekking leaders, and your hospitality partners.
The children in the Khumbu region are another beauty. We have managed more than 1,000 trips to Everest Base Camp. And the happiness our guests had the most was because of the children of Khumbu. One of our guests Nick from New Zealand even said, "The children in Khumbu asked me for chocolate, they didn't ask for money." "All they wanted is happiness," Nick added. And exactly as Nick said, the children are the same. They are the future of Khumbu, and their mesmerizing smile will never let you tear your gaze away from them.
The Sherpa culture is another beauty that you can never forget once you are in Khumbu. Imagine a community that has its roots embedded deep within the majestic folds of the Himalayas. That's the Sherpa people for you. They are not just known for guiding climbers up Everest but representing a rich tapestry of culture, tradition, and faith.
They originally hailed from Tibet but journeyed to Nepal between 400 and 600 years ago. In doing so, they didn't just change their address. They also embraced the towering Himalayas and adapted brilliantly to its high-altitude challenges.
What language do they speak? While their tongue closely mirrors Tibetan, many are also eloquent in Nepali, the official language of Nepal. If you ever trek to Everest Base Camp, keep your eyes peeled for intricate stone sculptures etched with Tibetan text carvings. But don't worry, because of tourism as their profession, the Sherpas are fluent in multiple languages from all around the world.
Religion is their compass, with most Sherpas practicing the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism. The Khumbu region's heartbeats are the monasteries or "Gompas" like Tengboche and Pangboche. And for them, Mount Everest isn't merely Earth's highest peak. They revere it as "Chomolungma," the "Mother Goddess of the World."
Festivity is woven into the Sherpa way of life. The Mani Rimdu festival stands out, a grand celebration in Tengboche, Thame, and Chiwong monasteries. It's a time of dance, song, and stories of Guru Rinpoche, who introduced Buddhism to Tibet.
Then there's the Dumji festival, a heartfelt thank-you to the gods who watch over the Sherpa community. And we should not even forget their New Year Lhosar that falls in the month of March which is a peak season for the trek. So, during your trip, you will not miss their festivals either.
The Khumbu region is a treasure trove of towering peaks and ancient glaciers. It draws adventurers and nature lovers alike, eager to marvel at its beauty.
At the heart of Khumbu stands Mount Everest, soaring at an impressive 8,848.86 meters (29,032 feet). It's not just the tallest mountain in the world, but a symbol of both human determination and nature's splendor. In local tongues, it's called 'Sagarmatha' in Nepali and 'Chomolungma' in Tibetan.
Just a breath away is Lhotse, reaching 8,516 meters (27,940 feet). It's the world's fourth tallest, sitting proudly beside Everest. Then there's the stunning Ama Dablam. While not as tall, it stands out with its unique shape, much like a mother cradling her child. It rises gracefully to 6,812 meters (22,349 feet).
And as you walk towards Everest Base Camp, you'll spot Thamserku and Kangtega. These twin beauties, climbing to 6,608 meters (21680 feet) and 6,782 meters (22,251 feet) respectively, paint a breathtaking backdrop to the Khumbu landscape.
The Khumbu region boasts three magnificent glaciers, each with its unique charm and significance.
Firstly, there's the Khumbu Glacier, the mightiest in Nepal. Starting from Everest Base Camp and reaching down to Lobuche, this glacier is a mountaineer's path to Everest's summit from the south. It's not just an icy trail, but a testament to nature's wonder.
Then we have the glacier that feeds Imja Tse Lake, found south of Everest. But nature's beauty here comes with a warning: the glacier is shrinking due to climate change. This retreat has sparked concerns about potential floods from the lake. Yet, travelers need not worry. Trekking here remains safe, allowing you to witness the effects of our changing planet firsthand.
Lastly, near the serene village of Gokyo, you'll find a glacier known to be the Himalayas' longest. Walking its trail, you're treated to views of shimmering turquoise lakes and majestic peaks that seem to touch the sky.
In the heart of Khumbu, amidst these glaciers, every step tells a tale of nature's power and fragility. So, book your trip and witness it for yourself.
Best Time for Everest Base Camp Trek
Everest region doesn't have specific weather. There can be clouds all of a sudden at any time unexpected. So, for your easiness, we have properly diagnosed the best time for trekking to Everest Base Camp. This way you will not miss the view of any mountains along the trail neither you will get sick due to bad weather. And your trek Price will be justified too. Here are the best times for trekking on the Everest Base Camp Trail:
Spring (February to May)
As Spring blooms with green and red lushes of forests and hills so will the mountains. Along the way, the roads are not slippery. And even the flights do not usually get canceled during Springs. The skies are so clear which is always the best thing to have when you are going to the mountains. The red forest full of rhododendrons is always mesmerizing in Spring in the Sagarmatha National Park. Similarly, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and of course, Mount Everest give the best view during the time. However, it is quite hard to get enough accommodations during the season. It is because along with you there will be more of the trekkers around to get to the Base Camp of Mount Everest. As Spring is the seasonal time to do Everest Base Camp trekking, the cost of the trip will be higher.
Autumn (September to December)
Although, the autumn months end in November, however, nowadays the trek can be extended up to December. This is because snowfall usually occurs almost toward the end of December. The fall season is similar to the Spring, only the leaves are falling apart in the region. As you go higher the trees are even less and you will see the yellow shades of grasses throughout the trail. The rhododendron, however, cannot be found during the Autumn, but you will not miss the Danphe and the beautiful Dudhkoshi River's sound along the trail. The mountains are still perfectly visible. But remember as you are surrounded by the mountains, the weather is not so sure during this time. Anytime it might rain or snow towards the end of the season. The trekking cost is also quite high during this season. The costs of the hotels during the Everest Base Camp Trek are also quite hiked in Autumn.
Everest Base Camp Trekking Routes
There are two trekking routes to Everest Base Camp. The first one will directly take you to Lukla on the flight. While the second route goes through the road. And in our package, we offer you a flight back to Kathmandu even in the case of the Second route chosen. Let's discuss in detail these two routes below:
Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu Flight and Trek to Everest Base Camp
This trek involves a two-way flight. First, you will go to Lukla on a twin-otter plane booked by our company. This usually involves Sita Air. Then from Lukla, your trek will go for 12 days up and down the hills and mountains in the Everest region. This is the new route that was started only after Lukla Airport (Tenzing-Hilary Airport) was constructed in 1964. And until 2001 the airport was not even paved. It was a complete off-road landing. This Lukla Airport is still considered the most dangerous airport in the world. However, now the runway is properly paved and it is completely safe to land. But still, the cost of the flights remains the same the flights might be packed during the peak season of the trek. So, we recommend you book it right away so that you won't miss Everest.
Also, check Lukla Flight Weight Limit
Kathmandu-Bupsa/Salleri (Road), Salleri-Lukla-EBC-Lukla Trek and Fly Back to Kathmandu
This route is the ancient route. This was the first time explored by none other than Sir Edmund Hillary and his Sherpa Guide Tenzing Norge. They chose this route as there were no other options for them to conquer Everest were left. They walked from Jiri to Everest Summit and created the history that we still know today. However, at the current time, you will not have to walk from Jiri. The shared jeeps right now can take you up to Bupsa/Salleri. From there only you will start to elevation. It will take around a day for you to reach Lukla first. After that, you will keep on elevating to Everest Base Camp and come back to Lukla. But don't worry, in our package of EBC trek we have included a fly-back to Kathmandu. And also the cost of the Flight is not so high so it is already included in your cost.
Also, check Everest Base Camp through Bupsa/Salleri
Everest Base Camp Trek Cost Breakdown
The usual cost of trekking to Everest Base Camp package is $1700. However, the price will always vary according to the accommodation, food, your own gear, and many more. Sometimes, the Everest Base Camp Trek cost also varies in case of a flight cancellation from Lukla to Kathmandu or even Manthali. These extended days will have to be usually covered by the trekkers themselves. This is why, to avoid any kind of confusion about the total cost of the EBC trek, we have broken down detailed pricing from food, accommodation, travel, guide, and the total package cost below.
Everest Base Camp Trek Hotel and Food Cost Breakdown
The Hotel and Food on Everest Base Camp trail might seem a bit pricey to many trekkers. However, as the region is remote and no vehicles except the air route have reached the place, the price that you pay for them is reasonable. Usually, the cost of Food in the Everest region per person can range from anywhere between $10 to $20 for a time meal. This usually includes a pair of a single meal and drink. However, if you want to choose something extra for your food the price can also range above $30.
Similarly, the rooms in the Everest region are always shared with other fellow travelers. During the peak season, the rooms along the trails cost around $7-$15. This price increases as you elevate in the trek. At this range, you will get a basic room with no attached bathroom in it. However, if you wish to choose a room with an attached bathroom in it, then the cost can go anywhere between $25-$300 or sometimes even more. The following table mentions the detailed cost breakdown of the hotel rooms in Everest Base Camp Trail:
Everest Base Camp Trek Package Cost Breakdown
The basic thing that always comes right to everyone before booking anything is its package budget. The rest details are just an addition. Simply, the Everest Base Camp Trek Package ranges between $1400 and $1700, sometimes fluctuating. That is why we have included the best breakdown for the journey.
Check the Everest Base Camp Trek Cost below, and send us an inquiry as soon as possible because very less people get the best deals from our company:
You can also send us inquiries on WhatsApp (Ramkrishna Timalsina: +977-9851083619)
Everest Base Camp Trek: Is It Right for Me?
Everest Base Camp Trekking is undeniably one of the most iconic and sought-after expeditions in the trekking world. But like every adventure, it comes with its own set of challenges and unique experiences that might not be suitable for everyone. Here's a comprehensive breakdown to help you decide if this trek aligns with your goals, physical capabilities, and desires.
Physical Fitness and Preparation
- This trek isn't just a walk in the park. Reaching an altitude of 5,644m. (18517ft.) at Kalapatthar is a test of endurance, even for seasoned trekkers.
- It's crucial to prepare your body at least six months in advance with a regimen focused on cardio, strength training, and altitude acclimatization.
- If you are someone who shies away from physical challenges or doesn't have the time to prep, this trek might be demanding.
Cultural Immersion
- This journey is more than just mountains. The experience with the Sherpa community and their warm hospitality is a cornerstone of the journey.
- If you're keen on diving deep into local cultures, interacting with indigenous communities, and understanding their way of life, this trek offers all that and more.
Nature and Wildlife
- The diverse flora and fauna, including a chance to spot the endangered Danphe bird, are part of the trek's allure.
- If you have an appreciation for nature, and the idea of walking through lush forests and spotting unique Himalayan wildlife excites you, this trek is a big yes.
Adverse Weather and Uncertainty
- Mountain weather is unpredictable. There could be sudden changes, and sometimes it can affect your plans.
- If you're someone who prefers clear itineraries with no disruptions, you might need to think twice. But if you're flexible and can adapt to nature's whims, the views and experiences will more than makeup for it.
Duration
- The trek is typically 11 days long. The rest of the 4 days are flights sightseeing in Kathmandu. This means you'll be away from urban amenities and daily comforts for almost two weeks.
- If long treks intimidate you or if you're time-constrained, consider your decision. But if the idea of escaping city life for the mountains sounds appealing, this journey is perfect.
Price Considerations
- The trek, especially during peak seasons, can be on the pricier side. From equipment rentals, and guide fees, to food and accommodations - the costs add up.
- If you're on a tight budget, you'll need to plan meticulously. However, the experience, by most accounts, is worth every penny.
The Emotional Quotient
- Beyond the physical, the trek is an emotional journey. From the joyous interactions with Khumbu children to the spiritual ambiance of monasteries and the sheer awe of being in the shadow of Everest - the trek is a rollercoaster of emotions.
- If you seek more than just physical achievement from your travels, this trek promises a deeply enriching experience.
Preparing for Everest Base Camp Trek
To prepare for this trek, you must concentrate on exercises that will increase endurance like cycling, running, and hiking. We advise you to start your preparation at least 3 months before the trek to get ahead of things.
Plan your workouts for five to six days per week, and at least once a week, take a hike to a hill if you are near one. Hiking is an all-around activity that will prepare you for the trek. However, it might not be possible to take a hike every week depending upon your location and your schedule.
You should be able to walk from 5 to 6 hours a day with approximately 5-7 kg backpack weight on you. Therefore, you need to be in good shape and health to join the trek to Everest base camp. If you have a past medical history or health issues, then consult your doctor once and discuss all the possible scenarios your body may see on a trek like this.
Do the following things to prepare for the Everest trek for 15 days:
- Go on day hikes to build a long walking habit.
- You can increase your stamina by swimming, cycling, running, or jogging.
- If accessible, train your body in the gym. Work on your core strength and endurance.
- Incorporate simple meals in your diet to adjust to a new palate while trekking.
- Break in your new boots and get used to it.
You can start a training regimen that includes the following:
- Aerobic workouts
- Strength training
- Training hikes
- Cardiovascular workouts
Permits and Guides for Everest Base Camp Trekking
Permits
This trek needs two permits, and you can obtain them at the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or at Monjo, the entrance of Sagarmatha National Park. The permits are the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance permit and the Sagarmatha National Park Entry permit.
Our Everest base camp trek price covers the fees of both permits, so you do not have to spend extra money. And our team obtains permits on behalf of our guests, making the journey extremely hassle-free.
Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance permit: NPR 2000 + VAT 13%
Sagarmatha National Park Entry permit: NPR 3000 + VAT 13%
Note: If you choose the traditional EBC trek starting from Jiri or Bupsa/Salleri, you'll need an additional trekking permit. Trekkers must buy the Gaurishankar Conservation Area entry permit, priced at NPR 3000 for foreigners.
Guides
Before 2023, anyone could go to the Everest Base Camp trekking without any guide. However, since 2023 no traveler has been allowed to solo Trek in Nepal which obviously includes the Everest Base Camp. Guides are kept so that you will have safe and sound travel on the trek.
Guides will also make it easy to get good hotels and food in the region. Of course, they are booked by the trekking company but also with a guide, there is minimal chance of getting scammed. Moreover, safe travel can be ensured with a perfect guide.
To book a good trekking guide make sure you choose Himalayan Scenery Treks and Expedition. This is because we have the best trained and experienced guides. Our guides have a government-assigned Guide License.
The upside in our guides is their High-Altitude Training Achievement and First Aid. This will ensure that you are safe even in severe conditions during the trek. Additionally, we do not charge you any extra price for the guides. The cost of the guide is already included in your Trekking Cost.
What After the Trek Ends?
Himalayan Scenery Treks & Expedition is able to resemble the local Nepali way of providing services. After you go to the mountains the company is responsible for still taking care of you. This is why after the completion of your trekking, we share a delightful typical Nepali Farewell Dinner with you in a local Nepali restaurant named Bhojan Griha. You might ask, why just Bhojan Griha as there are tonnes of other restaurants in Kathmandu. But we prefer this place due to its ambiance, the food and the typical Nepali performances shown during the dinner.
In Bhojan Griha the food is managed especially to serve the foreigners. You will see the way of serving food in a Nepali way. Similarly, during your dinner, you can see the best dances from the indigenous Nepali community. Not only this but even the food that you are going to eat there is from the organic raw materials produced in the restaurant chain's own organic farm from Bhaktapur. Hence, we take every guest of ours for a farewell dinner in Bhojan Griha.
After the dinner, the Himalayan Scenery Treks & Expedition will provide every trekker with their Trip Achievement Certificate to the Everest Base Camp. So, with a good memory of Nepali food, the strenuous but enjoyable trek, and the lovely resemblance of Himalayan Scenery Treks & Expedition.
Booking, Payment, and Cancellation Policy
Booking
When you choose to embark on the Everest Base Camp Trek with Himalayan Scenery Treks and Expeditions, you're in for an unparalleled journey.
To secure your place, an early booking is essential. Generally, a deposit of 20% of the total trek cost is required with your Passport copy. The remaining amount can be settled at our office at least a day before your trek begins. You have the flexibility to pay via cash, card, online transfer, or bank transfer. However, keep in mind that card payments come with an additional 4% bank charge.
Completing Your Payment
After your initial booking, it's crucial to complete the full payment at least a day before your trek starts from Kathmandu. Upon receiving your complete payment, Himalayan Scenery Treks and Expeditions will provide you with all the necessary documents and confirmations for your trek.
Payments can be made in cash, by card, online transfer, or through bank transfer. If you opt for the card payment method, be prepared for an additional 4% bank charge.
Cancellation and Refund Policy for the Trek
Travel plans can sometimes be unpredictable, and we understand that. Our cancellation and refund policy for the trip is as follows:
- The 20% deposit amount is completely non-refundable even if you cancel the trek. However, the trip can be rescheduled to later times.
- After you pay the price of the trek and you want to cancel it 20 days prior to the start, only 50% amount is refundable.
- However, if you cancel the trek 7 days before the start, then no amount is refundable.
If the trek gets canceled due to unforeseen circumstances like adverse weather conditions, Himalayan Scenery Treks and Expeditions commits to refunding your entire deposit.
Note: If you want to extend your trek due to any circumstances, we are ready to do that for you. Also, if you think you cannot complete the trek, then we have the upside of you letting your trek be done by some other person. We will not charge extra for the trek transfer.
Flight Delay/Cancellation
If the flight gets delayed or canceled while returning or going back to and from Kathmandu; then for your extra days' hotel and food costs, we advise you to carry some extra local currency.
Departure Note
The Trip Start Date is your arrival date in Nepal whereas the End Date refers to your return date from Nepal.
The listed departure dates are designed for group trekking. If they are not feasible, let us know the dates suitable for you. You can also request a private group trip.
For additional information and query:
Ramkrishna Timalsina: +977-9851083619 (WhatsApp)
E-mail: info@himalayanst.com