Everest Base Camp Trek

Trip Code: NP-35 Country: Nepal, Ex Kathmandu Duration: 14 Days Best Time: Mar-May & Sep-Nov Base Price: 1795 USD Level: Challenging

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Overview

Everest Base Camp Trek — Overview

The Everest Base Camp Trek is the most iconic Himalayan journey in the world — a 14-day route through the heart of the Khumbu region of Nepal that takes you from the legendary airstrip at Lukla (2,860m) to the foot of the highest mountain on earth at 5,364 metres. This is not a technical climb — no ropes, ice axes, or glacier experience are required. It is a demanding high-altitude trek on well-maintained trails through one of the most spectacularly beautiful and culturally distinct mountain landscapes on the planet.

The route follows the Dudh Koshi River upstream through a series of Sherpa villages — Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche — each sitting higher and more exposed than the last, with the peaks of Everest (8,849m), Lhotse (8,516m), Nuptse (7,861m), Ama Dablam (6,812m), and dozens of other summits appearing and growing in scale with every passing day. The acclimatisation structure of the itinerary is carefully designed — a rest day at Namche Bazaar (3,440m) and another at Dingboche (4,410m) are both mandatory, not optional, before the high-altitude push to Gorakshep and base camp.

The trek’s two defining high points are Everest Base Camp (5,364m) on Day 9 — the glacier-hemmed plateau from which Everest expeditions launch their summit bids, marked by a city of coloured tents in expedition season — and Kala Patthar (5,545m) on the morning of Day 10, which is in fact the highest point of the entire trek and the finest accessible viewpoint of Everest’s south-west face on earth. The sunrise panorama from Kala Patthar — Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and the Khumbu Icefall all visible simultaneously — is among the most photographed mountain views in existence, and rightly so.

This is a tea-house trek throughout. No tents, sleeping bags, or camping gear are required. Accommodation in local guest-houses along the trail is well-established and progressively more basic as altitude increases — Namche has excellent facilities; Gorakshep at 5,180m has the essentials and little more. The trail is never technically demanding, but the altitude and cumulative daily effort are real. Fitness, patience with the acclimatisation schedule, and honest communication with your guide about symptoms are the qualities that determine success on Everest Base Camp.

Deciding between Everest Base Camp and the Annapurna Circuit? Read our detailed comparison to find which trek suits your goals.

Important Notes

Best Seasons: March–May (spring) and September–November (autumn). Spring offers rhododendron bloom on the lower approaches and the spectacle of expedition teams preparing for Everest summit attempts at base camp. Autumn delivers the sharpest mountain visibility and the most stable trekking weather. Avoid the monsoon months (June–August) when trails are wet and views are obscured, and winter (December–February) when temperatures above Namche drop severely.
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging. The trail itself is never technically difficult, but sustained altitude above 3,400m for 10 consecutive days, long daily distances, and cumulative physical effort make this a genuine challenge requiring proper preparation. Read our guide to altitude sickness in the Himalaya before departure.
Highest Point: Kala Patthar, 5,545m (Day 10 morning) — not Everest Base Camp. EBC at 5,364m is the symbolic destination; Kala Patthar is the highest altitude reached and the superior viewpoint for Everest itself.
Lukla Flight: The trek begins and ends with a 35-minute flight to/from Lukla Airport (IATA: LUA) — one of the most dramatic short flights in the world, landing on a steeply inclined runway cut into the hillside at 2,860m. Weather cancellations are the most common disruption on the entire EBC itinerary. Do not book non-refundable onward international flights within 48 hours of your scheduled Lukla–Kathmandu return (Day 13). Build in buffer time in Kathmandu.
Permits: Two permits are required: the Sagarmatha National Park entry permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality permit. Summit Routes arranges both permits on your behalf. See our permits and visa guide for full details.
Acclimatisation Days: The itinerary includes two mandatory acclimatisation days — at Namche Bazaar (Day 4) and Dingboche (Day 7). Both are non-negotiable. Skipping either significantly increases AMS risk on the upper route. The Himalayan Rescue Association operates a staffed clinic at both Namche and Pheriche — both are visited on this itinerary and provide altitude awareness briefings.
Fitness Standard: Must be comfortable trekking 8–20 km per day for up to 7–8 hours on consecutive days. The longest day (Day 11, Pheriche to Namche) covers 20 km. Good cardiovascular fitness from regular hiking, running, or cycling before departure makes a meaningful difference above 4,000m.
Tea-house Trekking: All accommodation is in local tea-houses and guest-houses. Wi-Fi and charging facilities are available up to Namche reliably; above Namche, Wi-Fi is available at extra charge and becomes increasingly slow and intermittent. Hot showers (solar-heated) are available for a small fee at most tea-houses up to Dingboche; above that, hot water is limited.
Cultural Note: The Khumbu region is the homeland of the Sherpa people, whose mountaineering tradition and Buddhist culture are central to what makes this trek unique. Tengboche Monastery — the largest in the Khumbu — is an active religious institution. Trekkers are welcomed but expected to behave with respect at all monasteries, chortens, and mani walls on the route.

Brief Itinerary

Day 1	Arrive Kathmandu (1,400m) — Trek Briefing
Day 2	Fly Kathmandu to Lukla (2,860m) — Trek to Phakding (2,610m)
Day 3	Trek Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
Day 4	Acclimatisation Day — Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
Day 5	Trek Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,860m)
Day 6	Trek Tengboche to Dingboche (4,410m)
Day 7	Acclimatisation Day — Dingboche — Hike to Nagarjun Hill (5,100m)
Day 8	Trek Dingboche to Lobuche (4,940m)
Day 9	Trek Lobuche to Everest Base Camp (5,364m) via Gorakshep (5,180m)
Day 10	Hike Kala Patthar (5,545m) — Trek to Pheriche (4,280m)
Day 11	Trek Pheriche to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
Day 12	Trek Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,860m)
Day 13	Fly Lukla to Kathmandu — Sightseeing
Day 14	Departure from Kathmandu

Altitude Profile

Itinerary

Everest Base Camp Trek — 14-Day Itinerary (Kathmandu to Kathmandu)

Route: Lukla — Phakding — Namche — Tengboche — Dingboche — Lobuche — Gorakshep — EBC — Kala Patthar — Pheriche — Namche — Lukla

Day 1: Arrive Kathmandu (1,400m) — Trek Briefing

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) and private transfer to hotel in Kathmandu.
Afternoon reserved for equipment checks, permit verification, and any last gear purchases in Thamel — the last fully-stocked shopping opportunity before the mountains.
Evening trek briefing: 14-day route overview, acclimatisation strategy, Lukla flight logistics, Kala Patthar plan, safety protocols, and what to expect at altitude.
Overnight: Hotel Amaryllis or similar, Kathmandu
Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Fly Kathmandu to Lukla (2,860m) — Trek to Phakding (2,610m)

Flight: ~35 minutes • Trek: ~8 km | 3–4 hours

Early morning transfer to Tribhuvan Airport's domestic terminal for the flight to Lukla. The 35-minute flight over the foothills and into the Khumbu is one of the world's most dramatic — the aircraft descends steeply toward a short uphill runway carved into a hillside at 2,860m, with a rock face at the far end. Flights depart early to avoid afternoon turbulence; weather cancellations are possible and should be factored into onward travel plans.
Begin trekking immediately on arrival. The first day descends gently through rhododendron and pine forest, crossing several of the iconic suspension bridges spanning the Dudh Koshi River — the beginning of a trail feature that will be a constant companion for the next ten days.
Arrive at Phakding (2,610m) — a small village of tea-houses set beside the river. An easy introduction day by design.
Overnight: Tea-house in Phakding
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Trek Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)

Trek: ~11 km | 6–7 hours

The most demanding day of the lower approach. The trail follows the Dudh Koshi through increasingly spectacular gorge terrain, crossing and re-crossing the river on high suspension bridges before entering Sagarmatha National Park at the checkpoint in Monjo — your permits are checked here.
The final ascent to Namche Bazaar is steep and sustained — approximately 700m of gain in the final two hours. The effort is rewarded at the ridge: the first glimpse of Everest appears above the Nuptse wall on the approach, and Ama Dablam (6,812m) rises with startling clarity to the east.
Namche Bazaar (3,440m) is the commercial and social capital of the Khumbu — a horseshoe-shaped town built into a steep hillside with bakeries, gear shops, Wi-Fi cafes, and the bustle of a proper mountain town. It is also the critical acclimatisation hub before the route pushes higher.
Overnight: Tea-house in Namche Bazaar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Acclimatisation Day — Namche Bazaar (3,440m)

A mandatory full acclimatisation day at Namche before proceeding higher. Do not skip this day — the physiological adaptation it enables is essential for a safe ascent to Dingboche and beyond.
Morning acclimatisation hike to Syangboche (3,780m) and the Everest View Hotel — the highest-placed hotel in the world, at a viewpoint offering the most accessible panorama of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku on the entire circuit. The hike takes approximately 3 hours return and serves as an altitude-gain test before the serious ascent begins.
Afternoon visit to the Sherpa Culture Museum in Namche — an excellent introduction to Sherpa history, Buddhist traditions, and the mountaineering culture that has shaped the Khumbu. Browse the Saturday market if your rest day falls on the weekend.
Overnight: Tea-house in Namche Bazaar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Trek Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,860m)

Trek: ~10 km | 5–6 hours

A day of outstanding mountain scenery. The trail contours above the Dudh Koshi valley on a high-level path with continuous views of the Everest massif — Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam are all visible simultaneously for much of the morning, growing larger and sharper with every hour of walking.
The path passes through Khumjung and Phunki Thangka before the final climb through juniper and rhododendron to Tengboche (3,860m) — perched on a ridge with the most celebrated mountain panorama on the entire EBC route.
Tengboche Monastery — the largest Buddhist monastery in the Khumbu, rebuilt after fire and earthquake, active year-round and particularly impressive at the evening prayer ceremony. Attendance is welcomed and worth arranging with your guide.
Overnight: Tea-house in Tengboche
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Trek Tengboche to Dingboche (4,410m)

Trek: ~11 km | 5–6 hours

Descend from Tengboche through rhododendron and birch forest to the confluence of the Imja Khola, then climb to the lateral moraine country above Pheriche. The landscape becomes noticeably more open and barren as altitude increases.
Arrive at Dingboche (4,410m) — a wide, stone-walled settlement in a high valley below Island Peak (6,189m) and the great south face of Lhotse. The valley's drystone field walls and stone chortens give it a distinctly Tibetan character.
Altitude management begins in earnest here. Drink water consistently throughout the afternoon and report any symptoms to your guide immediately.
Overnight: Tea-house in Dingboche
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Acclimatisation Day — Dingboche — Hike to Nagarjun Hill (5,100m)

The second mandatory acclimatisation day — essential before the ascent to Lobuche and Gorakshep. Blood-oxygen readings are taken in the morning; the guide assesses each trekker's condition before the day's activity is confirmed.
Morning hike to Nagarjun Hill (5,100m) — approximately 3–4 hours return from Dingboche, gaining 690m on a ridge above the valley. The summit delivers a panorama encompassing Makalu (8,485m), Lhotse, Island Peak, Ama Dablam, and — on very clear days — a partial view of Everest above the Lhotse ridge. This is the highest altitude reached on the trek before the main push.
Return to Dingboche for lunch and a full afternoon of rest. Early dinner and sleep preparation for the demanding days ahead.
Overnight: Tea-house in Dingboche
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Trek Dingboche to Lobuche (4,940m)

Trek: ~8 km | 5–6 hours

The atmosphere changes markedly today as the trail enters the high glacial country above 4,500m. The landscape is rocky, windswept, and largely devoid of vegetation — a different world from the forested lower valleys.
Pass through Thukla (4,620m) and climb the steep lateral moraine above it to the Thukla Pass memorial site — a field of cairns and stone memorials to climbers who have died on Everest and in the Khumbu, including many of the most celebrated names in Himalayan mountaineering history. A sobering and moving place to pause.
Continue above the Khumbu Glacier moraine to Lobuche (4,940m). The tea-houses here are basic and the nights cold. Hydration and rest are the priorities.
Overnight: Tea-house in Lobuche
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Trek Lobuche to Everest Base Camp (5,364m) via Gorakshep (5,180m)

Trek: ~12 km round trip from Gorakshep | 7–8 hours total

The culmination of the approach. Leave Lobuche early and follow the Khumbu Glacier lateral moraine to Gorakshep (5,180m) — a cluster of tea-houses on a frozen sandy plain at the edge of the glacier, the last inhabited point before base camp. Stop here for lunch before continuing.
The trail to Everest Base Camp (5,364m) crosses the moraine edge and picks its way across the rocky Khumbu Glacier surface — an otherworldly terrain of ice ridges, meltwater pools, and boulder fields. In spring, the coloured tents of Everest expedition teams mark the camp from a distance. In autumn, the site is quieter but the glacier terrain and the glacier itself are just as dramatic.
Stand at the foot of the Khumbu Icefall — the gateway to Everest's upper mountain — and look up toward the summit, 3,500 vertical metres above. Allow time here before beginning the return.
Return to Gorakshep for overnight. Early dinner and early sleep before the Kala Patthar pre-dawn departure.
Overnight: Tea-house in Gorakshep
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10: Hike Kala Patthar (5,545m) — Trek to Pheriche (4,280m)

Hike to Kala Patthar: ~2–3 hours return • Trek to Pheriche: ~10 km | 4–5 hours

Pre-dawn departure at 4:30–5:00 AM for the final ascent to Kala Patthar (5,545m) — the trek's highest point and the finest accessible viewpoint of Everest's south-west face on earth. The rocky summit cone rises above the Gorakshep plateau in approximately 1.5–2 hours of steady climbing.
The sunrise view from Kala Patthar is the defining visual moment of the entire trek: Everest's summit pyramid lit by the first light of day, Lhotse and Nuptse forming the wings of the massif, the Khumbu Icefall visible far below, and the entire Khumbu horizon stretching in both directions. On the clearest mornings, Makalu and Cho Oyu are both visible.
Descend to Gorakshep for breakfast, then continue down through Lobuche and the Khumbu Valley to Pheriche (4,280m). The descent in a single day after the Kala Patthar morning is long but the altitude loss is a physiological reward — breathing noticeably easier by the time Pheriche is reached.
Overnight: Tea-house in Pheriche
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11: Trek Pheriche to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)

Trek: ~20 km | 6–7 hours

The longest day of the return — a continuous descent through the full length of the Dudh Koshi valley, retracing the outward route in reverse. What took two days on the ascent is covered in one long day on the way down, aided by the gradient and improved fitness.
The views of Ama Dablam on the descent are among the finest on the entire circuit — the mountain's distinctive profile is seen at its most dramatic from the high trail above the valley. Tengboche Monastery appears below on its ridge once more as the trail descends from the alpine zone back into juniper and rhododendron.
Arrive at Namche Bazaar — a bakery, a coffee, and the relative luxury of the Khumbu's best tea-houses feel genuinely earned after the high-altitude section.
Overnight: Tea-house in Namche Bazaar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12: Trek Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,860m)

Trek: ~19 km | 6–7 hours

The final trek day — a long, sustained descent through the Dudh Koshi gorge from Namche back to the valley floor, retracing the Day 2 and Day 3 route in reverse. The suspension bridges, pine forests, and Sherpa villages that felt so new two weeks ago now feel familiar.
Arrive at Lukla in the afternoon. Farewell dinner with the guide and porter team — the appropriate celebration for a completed Everest Base Camp trek. Tips for the support team are customary and appreciated.
Overnight: Tea-house in Lukla
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13: Fly Lukla to Kathmandu — Sightseeing

Flight: ~35 minutes

Early morning transfer to Lukla Airport for the return flight to Kathmandu. Flights depart early — be at the airport by 6:00 AM. Weather cancellations are possible; do not book non-refundable onward international connections within 48 hours of this flight.
Arrive Kathmandu and transfer to hotel. Free afternoon for Kathmandu sightseeing: Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, or the craft and souvenir shops of Thamel — all within easy reach of the hotel area.
Overnight: Hotel Amaryllis or similar, Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 14: Departure from Kathmandu

Private transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) for onward flights to Delhi, Doha, Dubai, or your home country.
Meals: Breakfast

Pricing

NP-35 – Everest Base Camp Trek (14 Days)
Starting from USD 1,795 per person
(Based on 2 trekkers, private guide & porter support)

Includes domestic flights, experienced local Sherpa guide, porter support, permits & full trek logistics — no hidden costs.

👉 Request Custom Itinerary & Quote

INCLUDED

All private transportation throughout the entire programme (airport transfers Kathmandu)
13 nights accommodation:
- 2 nights hotel in Kathmandu (twin sharing, attached bathroom)
- 11 nights in tea-houses and guest-houses throughout the trek (twin sharing)
All required trekking permits: Sagarmatha National Park entry permit and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality permit
English-speaking local Nepali / Sherpa trekking guide throughout the trek
Porter support (1 porter per 2 trekkers) for main luggage on all trail days
Meals as specified in the day-to-day itinerary
Domestic flight tickets: Kathmandu–Lukla–Kathmandu (2-way)
All entrance fees, government taxes, and service charges

NOT INCLUDED

International flights to/from Kathmandu
Nepal visa fees
Travel insurance (mandatory — must cover high-altitude trekking above 5,500m and emergency helicopter evacuation)
Personal expenses (hot showers, extra snacks, beverages, charging fees, Wi-Fi charges above Namche, etc.)
Tips for guide and porter
Anything not mentioned under "Included"

Group Pricing (indicative per person)

Group Size	Price (USD) per Person
2 persons	1,795
3–4 persons	1,595
5–8 persons	1,450
9+ persons	On request

Hotel List

Accommodation

Kathmandu (2 Nights)

Accommodation in Kathmandu is arranged at Hotel Amaryllis or a similar centrally located hotel in the Thamel area. Rooms are twin sharing with attached bathroom, hot shower, electricity, and Wi-Fi. The arrival night is used for briefing, gear checks, and permit preparation. The return night (Day 13) provides time for recovery, Kathmandu sightseeing, and a comfortable final evening before the departure flight — and crucially, absorbs any same-day Lukla flight delay without disrupting your international connection.

Trek — Tea-Houses and Guest-Houses (11 Nights)

Accommodation throughout the trail is in local tea-houses and guest-houses in Phakding, Namche Bazaar (two nights: Days 3 and 4), Tengboche, Dingboche (two nights: Days 6 and 7), Lobuche, Gorakshep, Pheriche, Namche Bazaar, and Lukla. Rooms are twin sharing with basic furnishings; attached bathrooms are available at most tea-houses below Namche and become less common above Dingboche.

A few practical notes by location: Namche Bazaar has the best tea-house facilities on the circuit — hot showers, good food, reliable Wi-Fi, and a genuine town atmosphere. Tengboche is quieter and more atmospheric, with the monastery immediately adjacent. Dingboche is comfortable by high-altitude standards and has reliable solar-heated water below 4,500m. Lobuche is basic — limited menu, cold nights, and the essentials only, which is appropriate for a single acclimatisation-critical night before the push to base camp. Gorakshep at 5,180m is the most basic overnight on the entire route, with minimal facilities and no hot water — warm sleeping gear and warm clothing for the pre-dawn Kala Patthar start are essential here. Tea-house charges for hot showers, charging, and Wi-Fi above Namche are not included in the package price and should be budgeted for in cash.

What to Pack

What to Pack — Everest Base Camp Trek

The Everest Base Camp Trek spans 820m in Kathmandu to 5,545m at Kala Patthar over 14 days. Pack for the full range: warm days on the lower valley approach, cold nights above Namche, and pre-dawn conditions at Kala Patthar where wind chill in October regularly reaches -15°C or below. The trail is well-served by tea-houses — no camping gear required. Porters carry the main duffel bag between tea-houses; you carry only a daypack on trail each day.

Clothing & Layers

Down or synthetic insulated jacket rated to -10°C — essential for nights above Namche and the pre-dawn Kala Patthar start from Gorakshep. Cold on the upper route is consistently underestimated by first-time EBC trekkers.
Waterproof hardshell jacket — for afternoon weather above 4,000m. Mountain weather in the Khumbu changes quickly in both spring and autumn.
Fleece mid-layer × 2
Moisture-wicking base layers (top and bottom) × 3 — merino wool manages temperature and odour better than synthetic over 12 consecutive trail days with limited laundry access.
Trekking trousers × 2 — lightweight and fast-drying. Not jeans.
Waterproof over-trousers — for Kala Patthar and wet conditions above 4,000m.
Thermal leggings × 1–2 — for nights at Lobuche and Gorakshep.
Warm hat and wide-brimmed sun hat — both. UV intensity above Namche is high; a sun hat is as important as a warm hat on the approach days.
Balaclava or buff × 2 — for the pre-dawn Kala Patthar start and for Gorakshep nights.
Trekking gloves — a lightweight liner pair and a heavier insulated outer pair for Kala Patthar morning.
Trekking socks × 4–5 pairs — heavyweight wool preferred for long days on rocky terrain.
Camp shoes or sandals — for rest time at tea-houses; your boots need to air between days.

Footwear

Waterproof trekking boots — fully broken in before arrival. The trail to EBC involves 12 days of continuous use on rocky moraine, stone steps, and icy terrain near Gorakshep. Unbroken boots will cause blisters that can end a trek before it reaches the high point.
Microspikes — recommended for the Kala Patthar pre-dawn ascent in autumn (October–November) when the upper section can be icy. Lightweight and easily carried in your daypack.
Trekking poles × 2 — strongly recommended for the steep descents from Kala Patthar and the long Day 11 return from Pheriche to Namche. Two poles reduce knee impact significantly over 12 days of loaded descent.
Gaiters — useful on the Khumbu Glacier moraine section near base camp and for any snow on the upper approach.

Personal Health & Safety

Altitude medication — consult your doctor about Diamox before departure. The itinerary arrives at 3,440m on Day 3 and reaches 5,545m on Day 10. Read our guide to altitude sickness in the Himalaya.
Personal first aid kit — blister plasters, ibuprofen, paracetamol, antihistamines, rehydration sachets, anti-diarrhoeal tablets. Tea-houses above Namche do not sell medications reliably.
UV-protective sunglasses — Category 3–4 — UV intensity above 4,000m is severe. Wrap-around frames strongly preferred for the glacier moraine approach to EBC and the Kala Patthar ascent. Snow blindness is a real risk without adequate eye protection.
High-SPF sunscreen (50+) — carry enough for the full 14 days.
Lip balm with SPF — wind and UV damage lips rapidly above 4,500m.
Water purification tablets — for backup when tea-house boiled water is unavailable, particularly above Dingboche.
Hand sanitiser — tea-house water quality is variable above Namche.
Personal prescription medicines — carry double your required quantity.

Gear & Equipment

Sleeping bag rated to -10°C (optional but recommended) — tea-houses provide blankets but quality varies significantly above Dingboche. At Lobuche and Gorakshep, your own bag is a meaningful safety margin, not just a comfort upgrade.
Sleeping bag liner — adds warmth and keeps your bag clean when using tea-house bedding.
Trekking daypack (20–30L) — carries daily essentials on trail. The porter carries your main duffel.
Main duffel bag (50–70L, soft-sided) — for porter loading. Hard-framed luggage is impractical on mountain trails.
Headlamp + spare lithium batteries — the pre-dawn Kala Patthar start requires a reliable headlamp. Cold drains alkaline batteries rapidly at altitude; lithium cells are essential. Store spares inside your sleeping bag the night before.
Insulated water bottle (1L) — standard bottles freeze overnight at Gorakshep. Keep your water bottle inside your sleeping bag the night before Kala Patthar.
Power bank — charging points are available at most tea-houses (for a fee) but are shared and slow above Namche. A power bank covers the high-altitude section reliably.
Dry bag or waterproof pack cover — unexpected rain is possible in both spring and autumn on the lower trail.

Documents & Money

Passport — valid 6+ months beyond your travel date. Required for Nepal visa on arrival and for permit checkpoints at Monjo and Namche.
Nepal visa — available on arrival at Kathmandu airport. Bring USD cash and a passport photo.
Permit documentation — Summit Routes arranges all permits; carry printed copies for checkpoint verification throughout the trek.
Travel insurance documents — must cover high-altitude trekking above 5,500m and emergency helicopter evacuation. Verify this specifically with your insurer before travel. This is mandatory for participation.
Cash in Nepali Rupees — ATMs are available in Kathmandu and at Namche Bazaar. There are no ATMs above Namche. Carry sufficient rupees for all personal expenses (hot showers, extra food, snacks, charging, Wi-Fi, tips) from Namche to Lukla — approximately 10 days.

Optional but Useful

Camera with spare batteries — cold at Gorakshep and Kala Patthar drains batteries within the hour. Keep all spares in an inner pocket against your body overnight.
Lightweight down trousers — particularly useful at Lobuche and Gorakshep evenings.
High-energy trail snacks from home — energy bars, nuts, chocolate, electrolyte tablets. Tea-houses sell snacks at significant markup above Namche; bring a personal supply from Kathmandu.
Small padlock for your duffel bag at Kathmandu hotels.
Earplugs — tea-houses on the main EBC route are busy in peak season; thin walls and communal corridors are standard.

For a complete Himalayan packing guide with brand recommendations and a printable checklist, see our Himalayan Trekking Gear List →

Not sure what to prioritise? Ask us when you book — we'll advise based on the season of your departure and your specific experience level.

Safety Protocols

Safety & Emergency Protocols — Everest Base Camp Trek

Your safety is the absolute priority on every Summit Routes trek. The Everest Base Camp Trek reaches 5,545m at Kala Patthar and involves 10 consecutive nights above 2,860m — making altitude management the most critical single safety function on this itinerary. Below is a full account of the safety protocols, emergency procedures, and standards maintained on every EBC departure.

First Aid & Medical Equipment

Comprehensive first aid kit carried by the guide at all times throughout the trek
Pulse oximeter for daily blood-oxygen monitoring from Namche onward — readings are taken every morning and compared against individual baseline values and the previous day
Emergency supplemental oxygen available for the Kala Patthar ascent and at Gorakshep High Camp
Basic medications including Diamox, Dexamethasone, Nifedipine, analgesics, rehydration salts, and blister and wound care supplies
Daily health check-ins at every tea-house above 3,000m — appetite, sleep quality, headache, and blood-oxygen levels all assessed and documented
Access to the Himalayan Rescue Association (HRA) clinics at Namche Bazaar and Pheriche — both staffed seasonally by volunteer doctors and providing altitude awareness briefings for trekkers. The Pheriche clinic (Day 10) is particularly relevant given its proximity to the high-altitude section.

Evacuation Procedure

Below Namche Bazaar:

Assisted descent on foot to Lukla followed by flight to Kathmandu — the fastest non-helicopter route. Namche to Lukla on foot takes approximately 6–7 hours assisted.
Helicopter landing zone at Namche Bazaar helipad — the most frequently used emergency evacuation point on the EBC route

Namche to Dingboche:

Helicopter evacuation from Namche, Tengboche, or Dingboche helipad is the standard route for serious AMS cases — all three locations have established landing zones
Cases directed to Kunde Hospital (Namche area — the highest-altitude hospital in Nepal operated by the Himalayan Trust) for stabilisation, then onward to B&B Hospital or Norvic Hospital, Kathmandu

Lobuche, Gorakshep, and Base Camp area:

Helicopter evacuation is the only viable rapid route from the high camps. Landing zones at Gorakshep are used regularly for expedition support and medical evacuations. Helicopter response typically takes 1–3 hours from Kathmandu in good weather.
For less urgent cases, assisted descent to Dingboche or Pheriche can be achieved in 3–5 hours from Lobuche, where HRA clinic assessment and helicopter coordination become available

Guide Training & Certifications

All trekking guides are licensed by TAAN (Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal) with valid government-issued guide licence
Wilderness First Responder (WFR) or equivalent high-altitude medical first aid certification
Minimum of three prior EBC completions including Kala Patthar ascent required for every lead guide — thorough knowledge of weather patterns, acclimatisation indicators, and the specific AMS presentation patterns at Lobuche and Gorakshep is essential at this altitude
Many of our Khumbu guides are Sherpa — born and raised in the region, with a lifetime of high-altitude experience and deep familiarity with every aspect of the route
The guide's assessment of individual trekker readiness at each acclimatisation day is final. No summit, schedule, or itinerary commitment overrides their safety judgement.

Travel Insurance — Mandatory Requirement

Valid travel insurance is a non-negotiable condition of participation on this trek.

Must cover high-altitude trekking to at least 5,500 metres (Kala Patthar reaches 5,545m)
Must include emergency helicopter evacuation — helicopter rescue from the Lobuche/Gorakshep area to Kathmandu is expensive and must be pre-authorised by your insurer before Summit Routes activates the evacuation
Must cover medical hospitalisation, emergency repatriation, and trip cancellation including Lukla flight delays
The insurance policy must be shared with Summit Routes before departure
Trekkers without valid, verified insurance cannot join this trek — no exceptions

Not sure which policy covers Kala Patthar at 5,545m? See our Insurance & Permits FAQ.

Emergency Contact Protocol During the Trek

For Family / Next of Kin

A dedicated emergency contact number is provided to all clients before departure. Our Kathmandu coordinator monitors every active EBC departure and will contact your nominated next-of-kin within 2 hours of any serious incident.

On the Trail

Mobile signal (NTC and Ncell) is available throughout most of the route including Namche, Tengboche, and Dingboche. Signal is intermittent above Dingboche and limited at Lobuche and Gorakshep. Our guides carry full mobile connectivity on the lower sections and are aware of the specific locations above Lobuche where signal is occasionally accessible for emergency use.

Rescue Coordination

Summit Routes maintains coordination with TAAN Rescue, the Nepal Army Air Wing, and private helicopter operators including Fishtail Air and Simrik Air — the primary helicopter rescue operators for the Khumbu. All operators have established landing zones and procedures for the EBC corridor.

Lukla Flight — Safety & Delay Considerations

The Lukla flight is statistically the most likely disruption on the entire EBC itinerary. Our guide team manages this as follows:

Flights are booked on the earliest available departure time to maximise the weather window before afternoon cloud develops
In the event of a Kathmandu–Lukla weather cancellation on Day 2, trekkers may proceed to Ramechhap Airport (3 hours from Kathmandu) where Lukla flights often continue when Kathmandu flights are cancelled — your guide manages this contingency
On the return (Day 13), the Lukla–Kathmandu flight operates under the same morning weather window. Do not book non-refundable international departures within 48 hours of your scheduled Lukla return flight. Weather holds of 1–2 days are not uncommon in both spring and autumn.

Altitude Sickness (AMS) — Our Policy

AMS is the most common medical issue on the EBC trek and a real risk above 3,400m. Read our complete altitude sickness guide before joining the trek.

Any trekker showing signs of High-Altitude Cerebral Oedema (HACE) or High-Altitude Pulmonary Oedema (HAPE) will be descended immediately. This decision is non-negotiable and cannot be overridden by the trekker.

The acclimatisation schedule built into this itinerary:

Day 1: Kathmandu — 1,400m
Day 2: Phakding — 2,610m
Day 3: Namche Bazaar — 3,440m
Day 4: Namche — full acclimatisation day + hike to 3,780m, return to 3,440m
Day 5: Tengboche — 3,860m
Day 6: Dingboche — 4,410m
Day 7: Dingboche — full acclimatisation day + hike to Nagarjun Hill (5,100m), return to 4,410m
Day 8: Lobuche — 4,940m
Day 9: Gorakshep — 5,180m — EBC 5,364m
Day 10: Kala Patthar — 5,545m — descend to Pheriche (4,280m)

Both acclimatisation days are non-negotiable. Any trekker who is not sufficiently recovered at either Namche or Dingboche will remain at that altitude for an additional day before being cleared to continue. No schedule, flight booking, or deadline takes precedence over this assessment.

Have a safety question before booking?
Contact our team on WhatsApp (+91 96222 44022) or email info@summitroutes.com. We are happy to discuss EBC safety in detail before you commit.

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FAQ

How difficult is Everest Base Camp Trek?

Everest Base Camp is a strenuous high-altitude trek. You walk 5–7 hours daily for 12 days, with major challenges coming from altitude (above 5,000m), cold conditions, and cumulative fatigue rather than technical difficulty.

Do I need trekking experience to join Everest Base Camp Trek?

Yes, prior multi-day trekking experience is strongly recommended. While the route is non-technical, the altitude, long duration, and consecutive trekking days make it demanding for first-time trekkers.

When is the best time to do the Everest Base Camp Trek?

Best seasons are Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November). These offer stable weather, clear mountain views, and safer flight conditions to Lukla compared to monsoon and winter.

What permits are required and do you arrange them?

You need two permits: Sagarmatha National Park Permit and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit. These are arranged by us and included in organized treks.

What's included in the price?

Most packages include teahouse accommodation, all meals during the trek, licensed guide, porter support, permits, and airport transfers. Lukla flights may be included or quoted separately.

How do I get to the starting point?

The trek starts with a flight from Kathmandu (or Ramechhap in peak season) to Lukla. Flights are weather-dependent and delays or rescheduling are common.

What accommodation is provided during the trip?

Accommodation is in basic teahouses with twin-sharing rooms. Facilities are simple, with shared toilets, limited heating, and more basic conditions as you gain altitude.

What kind of food is served, and can you cater to dietary requirements?

Meals are served in teahouses with options like dal bhat, rice, noodles, soups, eggs, and potatoes. Food becomes simpler at higher altitudes but is designed to provide energy for trekking.

What should I pack for this trip?

Pack for cold and high altitude: layered clothing, insulated down jacket, waterproofs, trekking boots, gloves, thermals, sleeping bag, sunglasses, and personal medical kit.

Can I join as a solo traveller?

Yes, solo travellers can join group departures or book private treks. Group joining is common and helps reduce cost while maintaining safety.

How large are your groups?

Group sizes are typically small, around 4–10 trekkers, ensuring better acclimatization management, safety, and personalized guidance.

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes, travel insurance is mandatory and must cover high-altitude trekking up to 6,000m, including emergency helicopter evacuation.

What is the maximum altitude reached on this trek?

Everest Base Camp sits at 5,364m, while Kala Patthar (5,545m) is usually the highest point reached and offers the best close-up views of Everest.

How are meals handled on the trail?

Breakfast and dinner are taken at teahouses, while lunch is eaten along the trail. Meals are repetitive but high in carbohydrates to support energy needs at altitude.

What happens if I develop altitude sickness?

Proper acclimatization days are built into the itinerary. Guides monitor symptoms closely, and if required, immediate descent or helicopter evacuation is arranged.

Is there mobile coverage during the trek?

Mobile network is limited and unreliable beyond certain villages. Paid Wi-Fi is available in many teahouses but is slow and not always dependable.

What toilet facilities are available on the trek?

Teahouses provide basic shared toilets. Western toilets are available at lower altitudes, but higher up, expect simple squat toilets with minimal facilities.

Are your trek guides licensed and certified?

Guides are licensed and experienced in high-altitude trekking, trained in first aid and emergency response, and responsible for pacing and safety decisions.

How do Lukla flight delays affect my itinerary?

Flights to Lukla are the most unpredictable part of the trip. Delays of 1–2 days are common, so buffer days are essential when planning your itinerary.

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📅 Everest Base Camp Trek 2026 — Fixed Departure (14 Days)

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Oct 10 – Oct 23

Arrive & Depart: Kathmandu (KTM), Nepal

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Everest Base Camp Trek (14 Days)

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