Everest Base Camp Trek
Stand at the foot of the world's highest peak
Expert guides • Government licensed • 30+ verified reviews
Scroll to explore
Trek Overview & Itinerary
The Everest Base Camp trek is the world's most iconic high-altitude trekking route. This challenging 12-14 day journey takes you through the heart of the Khumbu region, passing through traditional Sherpa villages, rhododendron forests, and alpine meadows. You'll acclimatize gradually while experiencing authentic Nepalese culture, culminating at 5,364m at the base camp of Mount Everest—the world's highest peak.
This is not a mountaineering expedition, but a serious high-altitude trek requiring good fitness, mental preparation, and respect for the mountain environment. Nepal Hiking Adventure Company Pvt. Ltd. provides expert guides trained in altitude management, strategic acclimatization days, and comprehensive support to maximize your safety and enjoyment.
Duration
12–14 days total
Includes 2-3 acclimatization days
Total Distance
~130 km
Mix of trekking and rest days
Max Elevation
5,364m (17,598 ft)
Everest Base Camp
Elevation Gain
~2,600m total
Gradual acclimatization schedule
Acclimatization Days
2–3 strategic rest days
At Namche Bazaar and Dingboche
Difficulty Level
Challenging
High altitude + technical terrain
Day-by-Day Itinerary
| Day | Location | Elevation | Distance | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kathmandu | 1,400m | — | Arrival in Kathmandu. Orientation, trek briefing, and rest. |
| 2 | Kathmandu → Phakding | 2,610m | ~5 km | Flight to Lukla (2,860m), trek to Phakding. Meet guides and porters. |
| 3 | Phakding → Namche Bazaar | 3,440m | ~11 km | Steep ascent to Namche Bazaar, the main trading hub of the Khumbu. |
| 4 | Namche Bazaar (Acclimatization) | 3,440m | ~5 km | Rest day. Optional hike to Everest View Hotel for Everest views. Acclimatize. |
| 5 | Namche → Tengboche | 3,867m | ~5 km | Moderate trek with views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. Visit Tengboche Monastery. |
| 6 | Tengboche → Dingboche | 4,410m | ~6 km | Gradual ascent through rhododendron forests to Dingboche. |
| 7 | Dingboche (Acclimatization) | 4,410m | ~3-5 km | Rest day. Optional hike to Nagarjun Peak (5,106m) or Chukkung Ri for views. |
| 8 | Dingboche → Lobuche East | 4,910m | ~6 km | Steep ascent. High altitude. Prepare for Everest Base Camp push. |
| 9 | Lobuche East → Gorak Shep | 5,160m | ~5 km | Challenging high-altitude trek. Gorak Shep is the last settlement before Base Camp. |
| 10 | Gorak Shep → Everest Base Camp → Gorak Shep | 5,364m / 5,160m | ~10 km | Early morning trek to Everest Base Camp. Return to Gorak Shep for the night. |
| 11 | Gorak Shep → Kala Pattar → Pheriche | 5,545m / 4,250m | ~13 km | Sunrise hike to Kala Pattar for panoramic Everest views. Descend to Pheriche. |
| 12 | Pheriche → Namche Bazaar | 3,440m | ~11 km | Long descent back to Namche Bazaar. Rest and celebration. |
| 13 | Namche → Lukla | 2,860m | ~16 km | Final trek day. Descend to Lukla. Farewell dinner with guides and porters. |
| 14 | Lukla → Kathmandu | 1,400m | — | Flight back to Kathmandu. Depart or rest in the city. |
Note: Itinerary is flexible and may be adjusted based on weather, group fitness, and acclimatization needs. Nepal Hiking Adventure Company Pvt. Ltd. prioritizes safety and individual acclimatization over strict scheduling.
Difficulty & Requirements
Difficulty Level: Challenging
The Everest Base Camp trek is a serious high-altitude undertaking. While it does not require mountaineering skills or technical climbing, it demands:
- Good cardiovascular fitness: You should be able to hike 5-7 hours per day at altitude.
- Mental resilience: High altitude can be psychologically challenging. Prepare mentally for discomfort.
- Altitude acclimatization: Our guides use a proven "climb high, sleep low" strategy to minimize altitude sickness risk.
- Previous trekking experience: Ideal if you've trekked at 3,000m+ elevation before.
- Respect for the mountain: Everest is sacred to local Sherpa communities. Trek responsibly.
Training Recommendation: Begin training 8-12 weeks before your trek. Include cardiovascular exercise (running, cycling, stair climbing) and strength training (core, legs, glutes). Nepal Hiking Adventure Company Pvt. Ltd. provides a detailed training guide upon booking.
Best Seasons to Trek
Autumn (September–November)
- Weather: Clear skies, stable conditions, minimal rainfall.
- Temperature: 0–15°C at trekking altitudes; –10 to 0°C at Base Camp.
- Visibility: Exceptional mountain views, especially October.
- Crowds: Peak season; trails busy but infrastructure robust.
- Best months: Mid-September to late October.
Spring (March–May)
- Weather: Stable, dry conditions; some afternoon clouds.
- Temperature: 5–20°C at trekking altitudes; –5 to 5°C at Base Camp.
- Visibility: Good; mountain views excellent. Rhododendrons bloom.
- Crowds: Moderate; less crowded than autumn.
- Best months: Mid-April to early May.
Not Recommended: Summer & Winter
Summer (Jun–Aug): Heavy monsoon rains reduce visibility and increase avalanche risk. Not recommended.
Winter (Dec–Feb): Extreme cold, heavy snow, and avalanche hazard make winter trekking dangerous for non-climbers. Not recommended.
Trek Highlights
Everest Views
Stand at 5,364m at Everest Base Camp, the foot of the world's highest peak.
Sherpa Culture
Experience authentic Sherpa villages, monasteries, and warm hospitality in the Khumbu region.
Diverse Landscapes
Trek through rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, glacial moraines, and high-altitude terrain.
Expert Guides
Nepal Hiking Adventure Company Pvt. Ltd. guides are trained, licensed, and deeply knowledgeable about the route.
Kala Pattar Sunrise
Hike to Kala Pattar (5,545m) for a panoramic sunrise over Everest and the Khumbu peaks.
Personal Achievement
Accomplish one of the world's most famous treks and push your limits in a safe, supported environment.
Ready to Conquer Everest Base Camp?
Nepal Hiking Adventure Company Pvt. Ltd. is here to guide you safely and expertly to the world's most iconic high-altitude destination. Our team will customize your itinerary, manage all logistics, and ensure you're prepared for success.
Pricing, Permits & Logistics
Transparent pricing and straightforward logistics. We handle the details so you can focus on the adventure.
Package Pricing
Group of 4+
USD 1,200–1,500
per person
Group of 2–3
USD 1,400–1,700
per person
Single Supplement
USD 300–400
additional cost
Prices vary by season and group composition. Request a custom quote for your specific dates.
What's Included
- Professional, licensed guide
- Experienced porter
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Tea house accommodation
- All required permits
- Emergency evacuation insurance
What's Not Included
- International flights
- Nepal visa
- Personal trekking gear
- Travel insurance
- Tips for guide & porter
- Personal expenses (drinks, snacks)
Required Permits
TIMS Card
Trekkers' Information Management System card required for all trekkers in Nepal.
- Cost: USD 20 (foreign trekkers)
- Processing: 1–2 hours in Kathmandu
- Included: Yes, in package price
Sagarmatha National Park Entry
Official entry permit for Everest Base Camp trek in the national park.
- Cost: USD 30 (foreign trekkers)
- Processing: 1 day
- Included: Yes, in package price
Nepal Hiking Adventure handles all permit processing. Your guide will assist with documentation.
Trek Logistics
Group Size
Minimum 2 trekkers, maximum 12 per guide. Private groups available.
Start Dates
Flexible departure dates year-round. Best seasons: October–November and March–May.
Accommodation
Tea house lodges with private or shared rooms. Simple but comfortable.
Guide & Porter
One professional guide per 4–6 trekkers. One porter per 2–3 trekkers.
Payment Schedule
Booking Deposit
30% of total package price to secure your dates.
Due upon booking confirmation
Second Payment
35% of total package price.
Due 60 days before trek start
Final Payment
35% of total package price (balance).
Due 14 days before trek start
Cancellation & Refund Policy
More than 60 days before trek
Full refund minus 10% administrative fee.
30–60 days before trek
Refund of 50% of paid amount.
Less than 30 days before trek
No refund. Trek can be rescheduled to a future date.
We recommend purchasing travel insurance to cover unexpected cancellations. Contact us for insurance recommendations.
Sample Cost Breakdown
Here's an example of what's included in a USD 1,350 per-person Everest Base Camp trek package (group of 4):
| Item | Cost per Person |
|---|---|
| Professional guide (12 days) | USD 300 |
| Porter service (12 days) | USD 250 |
| Tea house accommodation (11 nights) | USD 330 |
| Meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) | USD 240 |
| Permits (TIMS + National Park) | USD 50 |
| Emergency evacuation insurance | USD 80 |
| Ground transportation & logistics | USD 100 |
| Total (per person) | USD 1,350 |
*This is a sample breakdown. Actual costs may vary based on season, group size, and specific itinerary customizations.
Ready to Book Your Trek?
Prices are per person and vary by season and group size. Our team in Kathmandu is ready to create a personalized quote for your dates and preferences.
We typically respond within 24 hours with a personalized quote and detailed itinerary.
Everest Trek FAQs & Preparation
Our guides are experienced in Everest treks and trained in altitude management. Your safety is our priority.
Expert Support Every Step
We've guided thousands of trekkers to Everest Base Camp. Our team is here to answer your questions and ensure you're fully prepared.
How do I prepare for Everest Base Camp?
Preparation is key to a successful trek. Start training 8-12 weeks before your trek with cardiovascular exercises like running, cycling, or swimming. Build leg strength with hiking, stair climbing, and squats. Practice hiking with a weighted backpack (10-15 kg) on trails to simulate trek conditions. Get a medical check-up from your doctor, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions. Review our packing list and gather your gear early. Most importantly, mentally prepare yourself for the challenges and embrace the adventure.
Training Timeline: 8-12 weeks of regular cardio and strength training recommended.
What fitness level do I need?
Everest Base Camp is a challenging trek, but it's not a mountaineering expedition. You don't need to be an athlete, but you need good cardiovascular fitness and mental determination. We recommend being able to walk 5-7 hours daily with elevation gain. If you can hike uphill for extended periods without excessive breathlessness, you're on the right track. Age is not a barrier—we've guided trekkers in their 60s and 70s. What matters is consistent training and a positive mindset. Our guides will pace the trek to match the group's abilities.
Fitness Test: Can you walk uphill for 2+ hours without stopping? That's a good baseline.
How does acclimatization work?
Acclimatization is the process of allowing your body to adjust to high altitude and lower oxygen levels. Our Everest Base Camp itinerary includes built-in acclimatization days where you hike to higher elevations and return to lower camps to sleep. This "climb high, sleep low" strategy helps your body produce more red blood cells and adapt to altitude. We ascend gradually, typically gaining no more than 300-500m per day above 3,000m. Rest days at Namche Bazaar (3,440m) and Dingboche (4,410m) are critical—use them to rest, eat well, and hydrate. Our guides monitor your acclimatization closely.
Key Days: Rest days at Namche Bazaar (Day 4-5) and Dingboche (Day 8-9) are essential for acclimatization.
What is altitude sickness and how does the company manage it?
Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is a common condition at high altitudes caused by reduced oxygen. Symptoms include headache, nausea, fatigue, and dizziness. Severe cases (HACE, HAPE) require immediate descent. Our guides are trained to recognize AMS symptoms early. We manage it through gradual acclimatization, adequate hydration, high-calorie diet, and rest days. We carry oxygen and medications (Diamox) if needed. If symptoms are severe, we arrange immediate descent or helicopter evacuation (covered by our emergency insurance). We've successfully guided thousands without serious altitude issues by prioritizing safety over schedule.
Our Protocol: Gradual ascent + rest days + guide monitoring + emergency protocols = safe trekking.
What permits do I need?
Two permits are required for Everest Base Camp: (1) TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System) issued by the Nepal Tourism Board, and (2) Sagarmatha National Park entry permit. The TIMS card costs USD 20-30 and is valid for 365 days. The park permit costs USD 3,000 (yes, it's expensive, but it supports conservation). We handle all permit paperwork—you just need to provide your passport details. Processing takes 1-2 days. The permits are included in our trek package pricing. You'll carry the permits with you throughout the trek.
Permit Costs: TIMS card ~USD 25 + Sagarmatha permit USD 3,000 (included in package price).
What's the best season?
The best seasons are Autumn (September-November) and Spring (March-May). Autumn offers clear skies, stable weather, and excellent visibility—perfect for photography and acclimatization. Spring is warmer and has longer daylight hours, though crowds are higher. Winter (December-February) is possible but cold and snowy; many tea houses close. Summer (June-August) brings heavy rain and poor visibility. We recommend Autumn for first-timers: weather is most predictable, trails are drier, and mountain views are stunning. Spring is excellent if you prefer warmer temperatures. Book 3-6 months in advance during peak seasons.
Top Choice: Autumn (Oct-Nov) for clear skies and stable weather. Spring (Mar-May) for warmer temperatures.
What's the accommodation like?
You'll stay in tea houses (family-run lodges) throughout the trek. Below 3,500m, rooms are comfortable with beds, blankets, and basic facilities. Above that, rooms are simpler with basic bedding—no heating except in common areas. Most tea houses have squat toilets; some have sit-down toilets in lower areas. Hot water is available for washing (bucket showers). Internet and phone signal are limited above 3,500m. The food is simple but nutritious: dal bhat (lentil rice), noodles, eggs, and vegetables. Rooms are typically shared dormitory style, but private rooms are available at higher cost. Bring a sleeping bag liner for hygiene and warmth.
Tip: Bring a sleeping bag liner, earplugs, and a headlamp. Tea house accommodations are basic but clean.
How many porters and guides will I have?
For groups of 2-4 trekkers, you'll have one experienced guide and 1-2 porters (one porter per 2 trekkers). Larger groups have additional guides and porters. Our guides are licensed by Nepal Tourism Board and fluent in English. Porters are strong, experienced, and carry 15-20kg of group supplies and personal gear. We maintain fair wages and working conditions for all staff—our porters are treated with respect and provided with proper equipment and meals. You can tip guides and porters at the trek's end (USD 50-100 for guides, USD 30-50 per porter is typical). Many trekkers develop wonderful friendships with their guides and porters.
Staff Ratio: 1 guide + 1 porter per 2 trekkers. All guides are licensed and English-speaking.
Is it safe?
Yes, Everest Base Camp is a safe trek when guided by experienced professionals. We've successfully guided thousands of trekkers with an excellent safety record. Risks are minimal with proper acclimatization, experienced guides, and realistic expectations. We maintain emergency protocols, carry first aid supplies, and have satellite communication. Helicopter evacuation is available for emergencies (covered by our insurance). Weather is the main variable—we monitor forecasts and adjust plans accordingly. The trek follows established trails through populated areas with tea houses and villages. Our guides are trained in wilderness first aid and altitude sickness recognition. Trust our expertise and follow guide instructions, and you'll trek safely.
Safety Record: Thousands of successful treks. Emergency protocols, guide training, and insurance included.
Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely! We specialize in custom itineraries tailored to your fitness level, interests, and schedule. Want extra acclimatization days? Prefer a slower pace? Interested in cultural side trips? We can adjust. Many trekkers add a helicopter return from Base Camp, extend to Kala Patthar (5,545m) for sunrise views, or combine Everest with Gokyo Lake. We can also arrange private treks for groups. Customization may affect pricing—let us know your preferences, and we'll create a personalized quote. Our local expertise means we can offer alternatives you won't find in guidebooks.
Custom Options: Extra rest days, helicopter return, Kala Patthar extension, private treks, cultural add-ons.
What if I have pre-existing health conditions?
If you have asthma, heart conditions, high blood pressure, or other health concerns, consult your doctor before booking. High altitude affects everyone differently. We can usually accommodate trekkers with health conditions through careful pacing, extra rest days, and guide support. Some conditions (severe heart disease, recent stroke) may not be suitable for high-altitude trekking. We require medical clearance for trekkers with significant health concerns. Be honest with us about your health—we'll advise if Everest Base Camp is appropriate or suggest alternatives like lower-altitude treks. Your safety is paramount.
Required: Medical check-up before trek. Inform us of any health conditions so we can plan accordingly.
What's the cancellation policy?
We understand plans change. Our cancellation policy is: (1) More than 60 days before trek: full refund minus USD 200 administrative fee. (2) 31-60 days before: 50% refund. (3) 15-30 days before: 25% refund. (4) Less than 15 days: no refund. If we cancel due to weather or safety, you can reschedule or receive a full refund. We strongly recommend travel insurance that covers trek cancellation. Life happens—communicate with us early if plans change, and we'll work with you. For custom itineraries or group bookings, terms may differ. Review our full cancellation policy on the booking page.
Policy: 60+ days = full refund minus USD 200 fee. Travel insurance recommended.
Ready to Begin Your Journey?
Still have questions? Our team in Kathmandu is ready to help you prepare for the adventure of a lifetime. Contact us today to discuss your trek and create a personalized plan.