Everest Base Camp Trekking in Nepal

Everest Base Camp trek is one of the most common meeting ground, to all the independent trekkers from around the world, looking for trekking in Nepal. Every year starting from March to May, in the spring, climbers from around the world pass through this route, with a common dream of making it upto the summit of mighty Everest. The Sherpa, native inhabitants of the region, worship the mountain and risk their lives to clear the route upto the top of Everest before the climbing season starts. This is because the notorious Khumbu icefall is moving in itself and keeps changing the landscape every season, posing threats to the climber.

Difficulty of Everest Base camp trek

However, not to confuse with the actual Everest summit, Everest base camp trek is a fairly easy trek that does not require any mountaineering skills. Everest base camp trek in Nepal is one of the highest achievements, every ambitious person on the planet would wish to attain. Similarly, it is the most prominent and popular tourist destination, Nepal has to offer.

Mountains seen from the region

Everest base camp trek offers a promising view of Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Cho Oyu and Mt. Makalu, all ranging above the height of 8200 meters. Throughout the trek, you will be walking at an average of 5 hours a day. 

Main attractions of Everest base camp trekking in Nepal

This teahouse trek offers an astounding view of Khumbu valley and surrounding Sagarmatha National Park. Likewise, you can also explore the inexplicable culture, tradition, and historical relics of the native Sherpa, unbreachingly tied to the mountains and monasteries. Apart from the scenic mountain views, Sagarmatha National park spread over 440 square miles of area, conserves a wide variety of Himalayan flora and fauna. Similarly, it is also a sanctuary for various endangered wild species such as Snow leopard, Himalayan Thar, Red Panda, Himalayan monal, and Musk Deer.

Everest base camp trekking route

The trek starts from Lukla. You can arrive at Lukla by plane, from the capital city Kathmandu. Upon reaching Lukla, trekkers head to Phakding, Namche bazar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, Gorak Shep, and finally, Everest base camp. Trekkers can ascend further upto Kalapathar at an altitude of 5555 meters for a spectacular view of Mt. Everest.

Required permits for Everest base camp trek

Trekkers need to obtain two different permits to embark on this trek. Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) permit are all the necessary permits required for this trek. These permits cost around $50 combined. The process becomes a lot easier if you book your trek from an agency. The trek might cost travelers from anywhere around $1000 to $3000. Totally depending upon your itinerary, nature of trek and other amenities it includes.

Chances of altitude sickness during the trek

The trek is fairly easy and simple. Everest Base Camp trek requires days of walking in one of the most dramatic landscapes of the world. It is recommended, for trekkers to have prior experience of hiking in high altitudes. There are always chances of catching high altitude sickness.

As discussed, acclimation can always be an issue due to changing elevation and high altitude. In this sense, trekkers must have valid travel insurance while trekking in Nepal. Also, book your trip with an experienced trek operator rather than trekking on your own. Helicopter rescues in such landscapes can be ridiculously expensive. A 30 days Everest Base Camp trek insurance might cost trekkers anywhere around $100-200. So, we highly recommend you to check with your tour operators, whether they offer travel insurance before you book your trek.

TREKKING FACTS

Average Walk: 5-7 hours a day

Best Season: February – March & September – December

Accommodation Type:   Hotel and Teahouses

Difficulty: Moderate

Elevation: 2860 – 5365 meters

Duration: 8 – 16 days

Cost: $1000 – $3000