13 days Everest Base Camp trek

You will be picked up at the airport (Tribhuvan International Airport) by our employee. Then you’ll be transferred to your respective hotel. Not to worry, a briefing session is included, and it is mandatory. You will have ample time to understand and go through it. After you’re done, you can visit or walk around the vicinity, and taste the street foods you can find. After all that, you may start preparing yourself for day two.

If you plan to get or buy your trekking gear in Nepal, then do not hesitate to ask us about it. There are decent stores in Thamel, but we can direct you to our well-renowned stores that can make you a really good deal. We will collect your passport copies and travel insurance for permits and safety requirements. Therefore, it will be handed to your guides whom you can trust.

About Kathmandu:

Kathmandu is the capital of Nepal. It is full of short travel destinations. Various UNESCO World Heritage Sites are located in Kathmandu, including Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Stupa, Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, etc. Perhaps, this place is rich in cultural and historical heritage.  Kathmandu is a blend of modern life and tradition, making it a captivating destination for culture, history, and urban exploration. All these elements showcase the exquisite traditional architecture of Nepal. Therefore, bustling markets and colourful streets, along with lively festivals, make Kathmandu a dynamic urban centre. On the other hand, the city is surrounded by hills providing scenic views and occasional panoramic views of distant mountains.  

• Morning: Breakfast in Kathmandu → Flight to Lukla (~30–35 min) 
• Alternative: Drive to Ramechhap + flight, or helicopter transfer 
• Sights: Dudh Koshi valley, stone houses, stupas, prayer stones 
• Overnight→ Phakding (approx. 2640 m)

Day 2 of your adventure begins in Kathmandu, where you get ready for your flight from Kathmandu to Lukla at an early hour. After your hotel breakfast you will go to the airport, where you will check-in for your flight to Lukla. The flight itself does not take long (generally in the range of 30-35 minutes), but provides you with an incredible view of the Himalayan snow-capped mountains as you fly high above and below. The journey also provides you with an unforgettable view of the majestic mountain ranges, valleys, and lakes below as you approach Lukla - the gateway to the Everest Region and the starting point of your trek.

Typically, flights from Kathmandu to Lukla have such a high volume of air traffic that they cannot accommodate all the passengers during the height of the trekking seasons. Consequently, if you are one of the many other travelers not able to get on a flight out of Kathmandu, you will need to take a contingency plan on your way to get to Lukla. The most effective and commonly used way for you to do this is to drive to Ramechhap early in the morning (approximately five (5) hours), followed by catching another flight into Lukla. If you would like to avoid the lengthy drive to Ramechhap, a helicopter can take you from Kathmandu to Lukla in a very short time (although this option will greatly increase the cost of your trip).

Upon arriving at your destination, Tenzing-Hillary Airport (the famous airport with the highly shortened and very exhilarating runway), you will begin your trek. Beginning at a very slow downhill pace, your trek will take you through the Dudh Koshi valley on a trail that connects you to the many small villages that line your way reaching Thado Koshigaon, many of which have traditional rock & stone houses that support their inhabitants and provide them with shelter, as well as many stupas and beautifully carved prayer stones. After Thado Koshigaun, you eventually reach Phakding, trekking about 1-2 kilometres.

About Lukla 

Located at an elevation of 2840 meters in the Khumbu area, Lukla is a small, busy village that serves as the main access point for those trekking to Everest Base Camp. One of its most distinguished characteristics is the Tenzing-Hillary Airport, which features one of the world's shortest airstrips. Although it is tiny, there are many lodges and stores available for visitors' basic needs. Many trekkers will often "break" at Lukla to obtain the supplies for their trek (e.g.: gear) and hire local porters. There are several cultural points of interest in Lukla, including monasteries and a Sherpa Museum where you can see Sherpa culture first hand. A local township fee is also collected in Lukla to help raise funds for development in the Everest area.

About Thado Koshigaon (2,750 m)

Thado Koshigaon is a small quiet village along the trekking path between Lukla and Phakding that serves as a convenient place for trekkers to stop for lunch. The village has a handful of teahouses and small restaurants offering basic meals and beverages for visitors. Although it is not a highly sought-after destination, it offers a crucial break in the trek, allowing trekkers to rest before continuing onward. The tranquillity of Thado Koshigaon is ideal for relaxing while replenishing energy for the next part of the trek.

About Phakding Village 

The village of Phakding is a renowned trekking location located at the foot of Mount Everest at a height of approximately 2610 meters. The village is commonly used as the first overnight stop for adventurers trekking to Base Camp on Everest's southern side, with several varying accommodation options available from cheap to nicer lodges that offer modern amenities. This site consists not only of many lodges but also has numerous local homes; the area is quite calm and has great views of the Dudh Koshi River which makes it a perfect place to rest following your first day of trekking. Visitors can also explore nearby monasteries or take short walks around the village until they continue on with their trekking adventure.

• Morning→ Start trek after lunch→ pass Dudh Koshi River→ Champute, Toktok, Bengkar 
• Trail→ Gentle forest paths→ ascend to Monjo (Sagarmatha National Park entry, permit check) 
• Midday→ Continue to Jorsalle (lunch stop, rivers, greenery) 
• Afternoon→ Cross suspension bridges (including Hillary Bridge), steep uphill climb 
• Arrival→ Namche Bazar (“Gateway to Everest”)→ overnight stay for rest and acclimatisation 

The trek from Phakding to Namche is a really exciting journey. Trekkers are provided with lunch at the beginning, and then they proceed towards the trails. Along the trail, they go through various spots like Dudh Koshi River, Champute, Toktok, and Bengkar, each offering a peek at Sherpa life. Considering the path condition, it is relatively easy with gentle forest paths. The trail ascends towards Monjo, which is an entry point to Sagarmatha National Park. This is where the permits are checked. After authentication, you continue your journey to Jorsalle. This is the final village right before reaching Namche Bazar. Jorsalle is a village with basic teahouses and nice rivers along with greenery views, where usually trekkers stop for lunch. 

The trek continues after lunch through forested paths. In between, they cross several suspension bridges, including the famous Hillary Bridge. Followed by that bridge, there comes the hardest part of the day, as there is a steep uphill climb. The harder the climb, the better the rewards. By the time you are enjoying a glimpse of Mount Everest, you arrive in Namche Bazar without even realising it. Namche Bazar is also renowned as the “Gateway to Everest”, which is a vibrant Sherpa town and the main trading hub of Khumbu. Trekkers are set to stay overnight in this village for rest and acclimatisation before further ascent. 

About Jorsalle

This is a village that lies right before Namche Bazar. It serves the purpose of lunch stops for trekkers as there are basic teahouses surrounded by beautiful green forests and river views. Jorsalle is a peaceful resting spot, after which the trail becomes steeper and more challenging toward Namche. Here, teahouses offer basic facilities with simple menus like Dal Bhat, Noodles, Soup, and hot drinks.

About Namche Bazar

It is a vibrant Sherpa village at an altitude of 3,440 m, commonly known as the gateway to the Everest base camp. In this village, trekkers usually stop over for acclimatisation and proper rest for the days ahead. They can spend that day exploring the main trading hub of the Khumbu region and the local vicinity. From this village, trekkers can have beautiful views of Thamserku and Kongde Ri. They can also witness and experience the culture, traditions, markets and history of the Sherpa people. 

Despite the remoteness and the altitude, Namche Bazar is still well-equipped with facilities. Trekkers can find their requirements and needs, such as Rastriya Banijya Bank, ATMs, Khumbu money exchange, pharmacies, pubs, pool houses, art galleries and souvenir shops. In case of an emergency, trekkers may also buy or rent trekking equipment from various trekking gear outlets. Wi-Fi are mostly available in the lodges with minimum charges. 

On this day, trekkers spend valuable acclimatization period in Namche Bazaar to get used to the rising altitude and the new environment. Instead of a full resting day, the day will involve a light stroll to elevated areas whereby the body will be slowly getting used to it and at the same time admire the magnificent sights of the Himalayan mountains which surround the area. Trekkers are also able to enjoy beautiful sunrise and sunset at a glance of the Khumbu region, more often than not, with clear sights of the mountain Everest and other mountains, and as such, the experience is refreshing and memorable.

Besides the increase, there is an opportunity to learn about the local culture and heritage during the day. You can either pay a visit to the serene Thame Monastery, which has its spiritual meaning, or visit a short trip to Khumjung Village which is the traditional Sherpa Village with a lot of history and lifestyle. Such trips are not only useful in acclimatization but also give one a better idea of the local culture and lifestyle in the Everest area.

• Morning → Start from Namche Bazaar → pass Dudh Koshi River → climb to Khyangjuma
• Midday → Descend to Phunki Tenga → lunch and rest by the river
• Afternoon → Steep uphill trek → reach Tengboche Monastery
• Evening → Prayer session → overnight stay in Tengboche

On this day, trekkers depart early in the morning from Namche Bazar. Along the trail, trekkers walk through rocky and sandy terrain. They pass the Dudh Koshi River and eventually reach Khyangjuma (3,250 m) through curvy uphill. Then they descend to Phunke Tenga (3,250 m), which is a quiet riverside hamlet tucked in the middle of the forest. Trekkers stop here for lunch, where they are offered warm meals and beautiful views of glacial rivers flowing from Everest and the Gokyo Lakes. Trekkers are halfway through the trek of the day. Therefore, this stop serves as the perfect midway rest before the final climb. 

After lunch and some rest, the trail continues a steep 4 km uphill to reach Tengboche. As they ascend to Tengboche, trekkers can witness a small picturesque valley where they can find 3-4 cosy teahouses. The teahouses serve proper local foods.  Along with it they can also enjoy the tranquil Himalayan setting. Trekkers are also set to visit one of the oldest monasteries in Nepal, i.e., Tengboche Monastery. They will have an evening prayer session at the Monastery, making a spiritual and peaceful end of the day. 

About Tengboche (3,860m)

It is a peaceful village surrounded by mesmerizing Himalayan Peak. There are a few cosy teahouses. People can find food with good food and a peaceful environment. This village is famous for Tengboche Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in Nepal. Visitors can experience a calm atmosphere, prayer flags, and a spiritual environment. Tengboche is a memorable stop which serves as an important resting and cultural stop on the Everest Basecamp Trek. 

• Start after breakfast from Tengboche (3,860 m) → follow scenic Imja Khola River 
• Pass forests, settlements like Dingboche → cross suspension bridge to Pangboche 
• Steep climbs along the trail → arrive Dingboche (4,410 m), ~8 km, 550 m ascent 

The sixth day of the Everest Base Camp trek will start at Tengboche (3,860 m) and will finish at Dingboche (4,410 m) with an approximate distance of 8 km with a total ascent of 550 meters. It is regarded to be one of the most difficult days because the trail presupposes several steep rises. The trek is done after the breakfast along the scenic path along the Imja Khola River, through forests and tiny settlements such as Deboche. Trekkers pass a suspension bridge on their way to Pangboche with a view of the confluence of Imja and Dudh Koski rivers. After Pangboche trekkers eventually reach Somare, which is the last stop before the final destination.  

About Pangboche

Pangboche is a small village that is located at 3,930 meters and is among the oldest in the Khumbu region. It has a reputation of having the Pangboche Monastery that is more than 350 years old and constructed by Lama Sangwa Dorjee. There is also cultural importance to the village, such as tales of the Yeti, and the village has one of the best views of Mount Ama Dablam, so it is a nice place to make a stop during the trek.

About Somare

The day lunch point is Somare, which is situated at approximately 4,010 meters. It is a tiny and silent one with some 4-5 simple teahouses. It is the place where trekkers can experience a panoramic view of the Himalayas and peaceful locations of rivers and alpine scenery which are a refreshing rest before the last part of the trek.

About Dingboche

The last place of the day is Dingboche which is found at 4,410 meters. It is a moderately bigger village having approximately 20-25 teahouses some of which are rudimentary and others are more comfortable. Bakeries and other recreational facilities like pool are available in the village where the trekkers can relax and recuperate. Dingboche is also another crucial acclimatization location which assists the trekkers to get used to the increased altitudes in the following days.

• Rest or short hike → Nagarjuna Hill Top (~5,000 m, 10 km round trip, 600 m ascent) 
• Carry lunch, enjoy scenic views 
• Focus on high-altitude acclimatization and reducing altitude sickness

This is a day of high acclimatization of Dingboche (4,410 m) and the trekkers will get familiar with high altitude on this day and continue their journey. The day is either spent in a rest or a short walk to Nagarjuna Hill Top (only about 5,000 m) rather than a long walk. The whole distance of the round-trip hike is about 10km and the total height is around 600 meters. Trekkers also tend to carry their own lunch with them and enjoy a scenic view. The day plays a significant role in reducing the issue of the altitude sickness and still active in the high altitude.

Hike to Nagarjuna Hill Top

A typical acclimatization event like walking to Nagarjuna Hill Top Viewpoint is usually applied. The ascending and descending time is approximately 3 and 2 hours respectively. Trekker Trekkers will enjoy the spectacular panoramic views of great Himalaya expeditions such as Makalu, Lhotse, Lhotse Shar and Island Peak as per the summit. The road is rough and not too challenging and hence it is a perfect acclimatization and adventure.

Dingboche and the Things to Do Around It

The localities of the vicinity of Dingboche could also be visited by trekkers either with a guide or the trekkers could simply rest and have some rest at their teahouse. The village is also deemed as a serene one, a factor that enables the trekkers to conserve their strength to subsequent days that are higher in altitude. The Everest Base Camp is now very near to this point and hence, the trip will be even more thrilling at this point.

• Start early after breakfast → trek
• Pass Dusa Kharka → scenic views of mountains, glaciers, rivers → lunch at Thukla 
• Steep climb past Thukla → Thokla Pass (4,830 m) → continue along river → arrive Lobuche (4,940 m) for overnight stay

Day 8, the trek of the Everest Base camp will see trekkers trek uphill to Lobuche (4,940m) with a distance of approximately 6-7 km and a total of 500m elevation. The hike starts at an early hour after breakfast and this is regarded by many as one of the most picturesque days of the trip. The route goes through the Dusa Kharka with an eye-pleasing scenery of snow-capped mountains, glaciers, rivers, and the alpine scenery. This trail progressively climbs towards Thukla where trekkers tend to spend lunch. Once across Thukla, the trail gets much more difficult and steep, and it ascends to Thokla Pass (4,830 m). Here, the trail goes on with great mountain scenery along the river until finally, they arrive at Lobuche where the trekkers stay overnight.

About Thukla (Dughla)

Thukla or Dughla is a small village which is situated at approximately 4,620 meters. It is the largest resting place on this stretch of the road with approximately 23 rudimentary teahouses. It is the place where trekkers normally have a lunch and short rest because the steep ascent is immediately on a follow-up of Thukla. This is the last major checkpoint till Lobuche, and hence a major rest point throughout the day.

About Thokla Pass

One of the most difficult and emotional parts of the trek is Thokla Pass that is located about 4,830 meters. It is a physically exhausting hike that is made worth the challenge by the spectacular panorama of the Himalayan mountains that surround the area once at the summit. It is also the home of memorials of the climbers, which also gives a reflective and meaningful touch to the trip.

About Lobuche

Lobuche is a small, but picturesque village, elevated at about 4,940 meters. It also has approximately 5-6 teahouses which serve simple food and lodging to trekkers. Lobuche East, Lobuche West, Nuptse, and Kangchung Peak are spectacular mountain views of the villages. Lobuche is a major stopover on their way to the Everest base camp where they can have time to rest and acclimatize to high altitude before proceeding.

• Start from Lobuche (4,940 m) → trek ~5 km to Gorakshep (5,140 m) for lunch 
• Round-trip hike ~7 km to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) on rocky, challenging trails 
• Take photos, enjoy scenery → return to Gorakshep for overnight stay 

Day 9 is the day when the Everest Base Camp trek is the most significant day and exciting because the trekkers have come to the end of the long way to their destination, the Everest Base Camp (5,364 m). The trip starts at Lobuche (4,940 m) and proceeds to Gorakshep (5,140 m) a distance of approximately 5 km, where lunch is taken by the trekkers. The expedition is then followed by a round trip hiking of approximately 7 km to the Everest Base Camp, after another brief rest. The trail is made of rocky trails that have many ascents and descents and thus is physically challenging. Nevertheless, trekkers are still motivated by the thrill of arriving at EBC. Trekking world, once at the base camp, where they get to take pictures, view the sceneries and celebrate the accomplishment, trekkers normally go back to Gorakshep where they spend the night.

Hike to Everest Base Camp

It is a gruelling and rewarding hike, which lasts a number of hours, and is conducted between Gorakshep and Everest base camp. The route goes through glacier landscapes and rocky terrains and there are continuous rises and falls. Trekkers can be rewarded with breathtaking scenery on the Mahalangur Himalayan range and also the mountain ranges such as Mount Everest, Pumori, and Nuptse once they have reached EBC. Attaining EBC is a lifetime experience where trekkers can take a rest and capture photographs and make memories they would never forget.

About Gorakshep

Gorakshep is a tiny village where the altitude is approximately 5,140 meters, therefore, it is one of the highest places of overnight rest during the trek. It has approximately 5-6 lodges that are well furnished and offer food and accommodation. The road to Gorakshep is rocky and glacier-filled which is a signal of the harshness of the high-altitude environment. It is also the starting point of the Everest Base Camp trek and a good place to have the helicopter back to Kathmandu instead so those who wish to go up and down faster.

About Everest Base Camp

The experience of being at the Everest Base Camp is an experience that you would never want to forget as it is not merely a simple destination. The tall snow-white mountains, the fresh mountain air, the avalanches in the background, and the fluttering of the prayer flags all make one have a feeling of awe and calmness. Travel to EBC is a test of stamina and strength, and each step is well-deserved, whereas the companionship of fellow travellers and the hospitality of Sherpa teahouses make the wilderness seem humanised. Standing on the top of the Himalayan giants and observing the sunrise, the sheer force of the mountains and taking a moment to view the enormous glacial valleys makes an impact that will stay with you even after you have come down the mountain a mix of the feelings of humility, wonder and triumph that underlie the entire Everest adventure.

• Early start from Gorakshep (5,140 m) → hike to Kala Patthar (5,550 m) for panoramic Himalayan views 
• Return via Gorakshep → Lobuche → Thukla → trek long distance (~14–15 km) to Pheriche (4,240 m) 
• Physically challenging with steep ascents and descents, highly rewarding and scenic

The tenth day of the Everest Base Camp trek is not only one of the most difficult and challenging days, but also the most rewarding. The expedition starts at an early age at Gorakshep (5,140 m) by foot to Kala Patthar (5,550 m) which is the highest elevation of the trek and which is the best place to have a glimpse of the Himalayas. On returning to Gorakshep, trekkers move through Lobuche and Thukla to the long distance of 1415km to Pheriche (4,240 m). It is physically taxing and powerful, and at the same time incredibly breathtaking and rewarding as the day includes both tough ups and downs.

Hike to Kala Patthar

The trek has a significant highlight that is the hike to Kala Patthar, which means Black Rock. The entire time it takes approximately 3 hours to climb up and 1.5 hours to go down to Gorakshep. It is 5,550 meters high and it offers panoramic views of the Himalayan range. The closest of all the views is the view of Mount Everest that is culminating with the close-up position and the other mountains surrounding it. The early-risers can also have a call to remember as they can see a great sunrise and this makes the experience even more memorable.

Descent to Pheriche

The trek then proceeds downhill to Pheriche after visiting Lobuche and Thukla after visiting Gorakshep again. This part is estimated at 4- 5 hours and has a lunch break at Thukla. Hiking down is also more comfortable than during the past days, however, the distance is still exhausting. In the late afternoon, trekkers arrive at Pheriche, and it is the final part of a long but a fruitful day.

About Pheriche

Phedre de Chiffre is a tiny village, 4,240 meters of altitude, and the food and accommodation of about 10 primitive teahouses. It is the home of the Himalayan Rescue Association Clinic that provides medical assistance and guidance on altitude sickness. The village is also a good place to make a rest after the tiring walk in Gorakshep and assists trekkers in restoring their energy as they embark on the descent.

• Descend from Pheriche (4,240 m) → Namche Bazaar (3,440 m), ~19 km, 800 m descent 
• Pass Sherpa villages: Somare, Pangboche → lunch at Tengboche or along trail 
• Optional route: via Phortse (3,810 m) for panoramic views 
• Enjoy Himalayan scenery, monasteries, valleys → overnight in Namche Bazaar

The 11th day of the Everest Base Camp trek is an arduous yet satisfying trek, as it takes one down from Pheriche (4,240 m / 13,911 ft) to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m / 11,319 ft) in a distance of around 19 km and total descent of 800 meters. Re-witnessing and re-experiencing the same path, you see the same old Sherpa villages such as Somare and Pangboche and you have the opportunity to observe things you might not have been able to observe on your ascending path. Tengboche or somewhere on the trail often has lunch, and once again there is an impressive view of the mountains in the background. At Pangboche, trekkers have the option of the popular path through Tengboche or a slightly more difficult path through Phortse route (3,810 m) that has panoramic views and a quieter path.

There is 6-7 hours of walking today and you get to see the Himalayan scenery in a new light, snow-capped mountains, peaceful monasteries and valleys are now visible on the down-hill. Meals, rest and rejuvenation are available in tea houses along the trail. You can come back to Namche Bazaar after a satisfying trekking day, rest in a cosy lodge, savour the atmosphere of the surrounding one more time, and prepare for the next part of your adventure.

• Descend from Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) → Lukla (2,840 m), ~18  km, 600 m descent 
• Pass major spots: Jorsalle, Monjo, Phakding; minor spots: Ghat, Thado Koshigaon, Chheplung 
• Walk along Dudh Koshi River, cross suspension bridges → lunch at Phakding or scenic spot 
• Arrive Lukla → overnight at hotel, farewell dinner with Sherpa hospitality

The last day of the Everest Base Camp hike is day 12 when you leave the Namche Bazaar (3,440 m / 11,319 ft) after which you arrive at Lukla (2,840 m / 9,318 ft) and the total distance will be about 18.2 km with an overall descent of 600 meters. The route is similar to that taken on the 2 nd day, except that it visits major places like Jorsalle, Monjo and Phakding and minor places like Ghat, Thado Koshigaon and Chheplung. As you walk alongside the Dudh Koski River, you will find a number of suspension bridges on your way and trekkers still on their way up to Everest Base Camp and you can have a glimpse of excitement and vibrancy on the trail.

The trail is not new, but the way back presents a new view of the villages, woodland, and river valley providing trekkers with an opportunity to observe the details that they overlooked at the beginning of the climb. Lunch is commonly taken at Phakding or on the path at some picturesque point. After arriving at Lukla, you will spend the night at one of the finest hotels in celebration of the end of your trek. Several lodges hold a goodbye dinner with classic Sherpa hospitality, such as a sample of Chhyang, the handcrafted rice beer, and several paces of Sherpa dance, which is an unforgettable end to the trekking journey.

On Day 13, the trek is completed by a scenic flight with that weekend flight Lukla (2,840 m / 9,318 ft) to Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,600 ft) of 136 km in about 30 to 35 minutes. Breakfast at your hotel in Lukla and then proceed to the Tenzing-Hillary Airport where you take the short but magnificent flight. The panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and rough terrain of Khumbu region are available in the window seat, a final view of Himalayas before going back to the busy capital.

The team will take you to your hotel where you can relax and freshen yourself after getting to Kathmandu. It is the best opportunity to look back to your trip, exchange tales with other trekkers and enjoy your achievement. At the end of the trek, many groups come together at the end of the trek at the coffee shop to discuss the experience with the guides and trekking organizers and end their experience at EBC on a sweet note with great memories of the mountains, culture and colleagues.

After you arrive in Kathmandu, you start preparing to leave Kathmandu, or you may say international departure. Then you do your lunch and minor works. One of our team members will escort you to Tribhuvan International Airport and also assist in your check-ins and departure procedures.

Finally, your dream to do the EBC trek has been accomplished, with a heart full of memories and experiences of adventure and thrill for the lifetime. In the end, we express our sincere gratitude for trusting and selecting us. To make you happy and give you lifelong memories is our job. Thank you!