Everest Base Camp Trek Route:
Our epic journey to Everest Base Camp begins with a scenic 4-hour, 132km drive to Manthali Airport in the Ramechhap District. We board a small yet thrilling twin-otter plane, soaring high over the endless ridges and peaks of the Himalayas towards the legendary Lukla Airport - hailed as the most exciting airstrip in the world.
Upon landing in Lukla, we will gather our trekking gear and set off on foot, entering the Sagarmatha Buffer Zone which safeguards the ancient lands of the Sherpa people. We spend our first night in Phakding, a colorful village of tea houses, prayer flags, and snow-capped vistas. Continuing north, we enter the heartland of the Sherpas, the local indigenous tribe who have lived for centuries in the highest habitable settlements on earth. Our second night is spent in Namche Bazaar, the busy capital of the Khumbu region, where we enjoy our last hot showers and ice-cold beers before the real adventure begins.
After Namceh we will leave the well-trodden Everest Base Camp route behind and take the serene Gokyo Valley trail. After crossing the beautiful settlement of Mong-La, we will spend a night in Phortse. Phortse village is consistently voted as one of the most picturesque villages in the region. It's a settlement with its traditional Sherpa architecture and ancient terraced farming fields set against the mighty Thamserku and Kangtega peaks.
Very few trekkers venture onto this remote trail that we take which is indeed very magical. From Phortse taking the jaw-dropping high elevated trail, we will walk to Dingboche and join the regular EBC trail. Now leaving behind the tree-line zone we will enter into the alpine zone where the air is thin with only alpine herbs.
After acclimatization day at Dingboche, once our bodies have adjusted to the altitude, we push on toward our ultimate goal – the iconic Everest Base Camp. After the successful ascent of EBC, we continue further to Kala Patthar at 5545 meters for sunset or sunrise views.
Having conquered the literal high point of our adventure on the Kala Patthar summit, we descend to the village of Pheriche. Next, we will now take an alternative route back to civilization via the region's most sacred Buddhist sites – the centuries-old Tengboche monastery. It's a beautiful place with an exceptional view. We will visit this spiritual sanctuary where we complete our pilgrimage by lighting a butter lamp to give thanks for our safe passage.
From Tengboche, we descend through the rhododendron and head to Namche Bazaar to celebrate our achievements. Following the Dudh Kosi river valley, we retrace our steps back to Lukla for a celebratory final night of dancing, music, and gratitude with our amazing Sherpa guides and porters. They are the ones who made this extraordinary expedition possible. The next morning we will take another scenic flight back to the comforts and bright lights of Kathmandu – with incredible memories to last a lifetime.
Is Everest Base Camp Trek Difficult?
The very simple answer to this question is - Not Really. Trekking to Everest Base Camp is certainly not easy. It isn't something like a morning walk in the park, it is challenging and requires preparations both mentally and physically. It requires great physical activity. Everest Base Camp is Strenuous and quite challenging in regards to its altitude which we ascend regularly every day. However, what matters most is how well are you acclimatized into the thin air. The Nepal Pyramids itinerary is designed to set enough time for good acclimatization so that you can enjoy the trek without straining yourself.
EBC trek is possible for anyone with reasonable fitness. Any pre-physical training prior to your trek will be an added advantage to further assist you in your Everest dream. Above all, what is more significant is your determination and positive attitude toward your goal. If you have a very well-set positive outlook both in your thoughts and heart about your goal, nothing can stop you.
Besides, it's not the level of difficulty that puts someone on a platform to failure, it's the FEAR.
Permits required for Everest Base Camp Trekking:
All foreign national requires two permits for this trip. The overall cost for the permits required is approximately USD $ 50 equivalent to NPR 5,390.
What are two Permits?
- Sagarmatha National Park Permit - Cost - NPR 3000 / rough equivalent to USD$ 25 Per Person - For SAARC nationals NPR 115 Per Person - Locals are to pay NPR 100 Per Person.
- Khumbu Rural Municipality permit - Cost - NPR 2000 / rough equivalent to USD$ 16/17 - price is the same for SAARC nationals as well.
However, children below 10 years old don't require permits.
Where you can obtain the permits?
National Park permits can be obtained in Kathmandu itself or you can always get them at Monjo (settlement at Sagarmatha National Park). Whereas for Khumbu rural municipality permit you have to get it from the Lukla counter. A copy of your passport or your original is required for the permits.
When is the Best time to Trek to Everest Base Camp?
The best time to trek to Everest Base Camp is during the Spring Season which starts from March until May or the autumn season which is from September until November in Nepal. Travelers do the trek to Everest Region even during the winter like December and January as it provides the most beautiful crystal clear weather. The probability of high or low cloud interference during winter is very low or zero.
However, trekking to EBC in winter is certainly a big challenge. The temperature drops below zero every day starting from Lukla itself. Few of the lodges at high elevations that are not permanent residents like in Thugla, Lobuche, or Gorakshep can be shut down. This is due to the temperature extremity that is unsupportable for many, especially the working staff. However, trekking to EBC in December is becoming trendy these days - KNOW WHY TREK TO EBC IN DECEMBER.
Monsoon is not recommended due to the high chances of flight cancellation when flying to Lukla or out of Lukla Airport. Anyone trekking to EBC during winter must be very well-equipped with warm equipment and be ready to prepare for the worst chill scenario.
However, we have month-by-month details for Everest Base Camp Trek.
Everest Base Camp Trek Cost for 2024
The cost of the Everest Base Camp trek can vary widely based on several factors. The factors include the route you take, the duration of the trek, the level of comfort you seek, and the services you choose. Here's a general breakdown of the EBC Trek Cost.
- Permits: You'll need permits to enter the Sagarmatha National Park and the local government area. The cost of these permits can change, but they are a significant part of the total cost.
- Guides and Porters: Hiring a guide and/or porter is common and can enhance your trekking experience. Guides can provide valuable information about the region, help with navigation, and ensure your safety. Porters can carry your heavy backpack, allowing you to trek more comfortably. So this will surely add up to your Everest Base Camp Trek Cost.
- Accommodation: There are various types of accommodation along the trek, ranging from basic tea houses to Luxury lodges. The EBC trek cost depends on the quality of accommodation you choose.
- Food and Water: The cost of meals and bottled water will increase with elevation as you go higher along the trek. Since all supplies need to be transported to the higher altitudes the cost of transportation is implied unanimously.
- Equipment: If you don't have your trekking gear, you might need to rent or buy equipment like trekking poles, sleeping bags, down jackets, and more. Most companies like OURS give these items for complimentary use to make the trip hassle-free. We try our best to cut down your costs to make your trip more comfortable and hassle-free.
- Travel Insurance: It's highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers trekking activities, as the trek involves some level of risk due to high altitudes and challenging terrain.
- Miscellaneous Expenses: The Everest Base Camp Trek Cost here includes things like hot showers, charging electronic devices, snacks, and other personal expenses.
A rough estimate of the total cost for the Everest Base Camp trek could range from $1,300 to $3,000 or even more, depending on the factors mentioned above. These prices are subject to change with the change in new government taxation policies. Besides these costs, you would require emergency cash for situations like a horse on hire, health checkup, flight cancellation, etc.
However, spending more doesn't necessarily guarantee a better experience, but cutting costs too much might affect your comfort, safety, and overall enjoyment of the trek. It's also recommended to book with reputable Local Trekking Agencies that prioritize safety and ethical practices.
Important Information
Complimentary Equipment:
During your pre-trip meeting in Kathmandu, we provide you with a complimentary waterproof Duffel Bag, buff (neck gaiter), 2 Toilet Rolls, a Map, and a Baseball Cap. The duffel bag will serve as a means to pack all your necessary trekking supplies for your upcoming adventure.
Your Daypack:
In addition to the duffel bag, it is essential that you have your own daypack with a waterproof cover. This daypack will be used to carry your daily necessities such as cash, important documents, water supplies or rehydration bladder, a camera, toiletries, sunscreen, a notebook, and extra clothing.
The equipment we Provide:
Besides the complimentary equipment, WITHOUT ANY EXTRA COST, we provide you with PrimaLoft wind stopper jackets, a Warm Down Sleeping Bag with liners, a Walking Stick if required, and Yak-Track (mini crampons where required). However, When trekking at altitudes above 4,000 m, it is crucial to have your personal lightweight down jacket and warm fleece Jackets or hoodies.
Drinking Water Supply:
In our commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible trekking practices, we wholeheartedly discourage the use of single-use mineral water bottles along the trekking route. To minimize plastic waste and protect the pristine Himalayan environment, our dedicated staff ensures a constant supply of safe, boiled drinking water throughout your journey. We kindly request that you carry reusable water bottles and rehydration bladder to stay well-hydrated. Together, we can make a positive impact on the delicate ecosystem of the Annapurna Circuit.
Assigning Porters:
To ensure your comfort and convenience, we assign one porter between two trekkers. The porter will be responsible for carrying the duffel bag throughout the entire trek. It is important to note that the weight of your duffel bag should not exceed 10/11 kg as the weight limitation for porters is 25/30kg max and if you are flying to any high mountain airports in Nepal your overall weight limitation including your duffle + daypack is only 15kg / 33 pounds.
Your Extra Luggage:
For your convenience, you can store all your extra luggage, and suitcases at the hotel SAFETY STORE in Kathmandu. This way, you can travel light and have peace of mind knowing that your belongings are safe and secure.
Tipping Tips:
Tipping is a gesture of appreciation, a heartfelt way to express gratitude for the incredible journey you've embarked upon and the dedication of the remarkable individuals who have been your guiding stars throughout your trek. The practice of tipping, at 10% of the trip cost, is a tradition that allows you to give back, acknowledging the extraordinary efforts of your guides, porters, and the entire team who make your adventure possible. It is a way to honor their dedication, hard work, and the stories they've shared around the campfire, deepening the bonds formed in the heart of the mountains.
Caution at the Airport on Arrival:
Upon arrival, we strongly advise against entrusting your bag to anyone other than our trusted office representatives. Unknown airport porters taking your luggage for a few seconds and claiming for TIPS is a very common incident at the airport. Our team is there to ensure that your belongings remain safe and that you can embark on your adventure with confidence. Your safety and peace of mind are our utmost priority.
We hope this information clarifies the important details regarding your trip. Should you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at [email protected]. We want to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable trekking experience in Nepal. Packing List for Everest Base Camp Trekking:
Detail Information on Flying to Lukla from Different Airports
Nepal Aviation Authority (NAA) has recently introduced new rules regarding Lukla flights. These rules aim to enhance the safety and efficiency of air travel to and from the Lukla airport, which is known for its challenging terrain and weather conditions.
The choice of airport for accessing Lukla is primarily based on different seasons. Manthali is used as an alternative to Lukla during peak seasons when Lukla flights are often disrupted due to weather and congestion, while Kathmandu remains the preferred choice during the off-season for its convenience and more reliable flight schedules.
Trekkers and climbers need to be prepared for potential flight delays and cancellations regardless of the airport they use, as weather conditions in the Everest region can be unpredictable.
1. Lukla Airport (Tenzing-Hillary Airport):
- High Altitude and Short Runway: Lukla Airport is situated at a high altitude of approximately 2,845 meters (9,334 feet) and has one of the shortest commercial runways in the world, just 1,729 feet long. This combination of high altitude and a short runway makes it a challenging airport for both takeoff and landing.
- Weather Variability: The weather in the Everest region, especially around Lukla, is highly unpredictable, with frequent fog, cloud cover, and high winds. These conditions can lead to frequent flight delays and cancellations.
- Limited Infrastructure: Lukla Airport has limited infrastructure, including just one small terminal building and a single runway. This can result in congestion during peak trekking seasons when numerous trekkers and climbers are trying to get to Lukla.
2. Manthali Airport (Ramechhap Airport):
- Alternative During Peak Season: Manthali Airport, located in Ramechhap, is often used as an alternative to Lukla during the peak trekking seasons (spring and autumn). The advantage is that it is less congested, and flights are generally more reliable.
- Distance from Kathmandu: Manthali Airport is approximately a 4-5 hour drive from Kathmandu. Trekkers are transported by road to Manthali from Kathmandu, and then they take a relatively short flight to Lukla. This helps in alleviating some of the pressure on Lukla Airport.
- Reduced Weather Impact: The weather in Manthali is usually more stable than Lukla during peak seasons, making it a preferred alternative when flights from Kathmandu to Lukla are frequently disrupted.
3. Kathmandu Airport:
- Alternative During Off-Season: During the off-peak trekking seasons (summer and winter), flights to Lukla from Kathmandu are relatively more reliable due to better weather conditions. In this case, it's more practical to fly directly from Kathmandu to Lukla.
- Convenience: Flying from Kathmandu to Lukla is more convenient in terms of time and transportation costs during the off-season when the number of trekkers is significantly lower.
Weight Limitation while Flying to Lukla
The weight limitation for Lukla flights is typically quite strict due to the short runway and high altitude of Lukla Airport, which makes it challenging for aircraft to take off and land. The weight restrictions are in place to ensure the safety of the flight. The specific weight limitations is 15kg or 33 Pounds:
- Baggage Allowance: Passengers are usually allowed a specific weight limit for their checked baggage, typically between 10 kg to 15 kg (22 to 33 pounds) per person.
- Hand Luggage: In addition to checked baggage, passengers are typically allowed a small amount of hand luggage, which is usually limited to around 5 kg (11 pounds). This hand luggage should be small and fit under the seat in front of you.
- Combined Weight: So the total combined weight of the luggage is not to exceed over 15/16 kg / 33/35 pounds
- Excess Baggage: If you exceed the weight limitations, you may be required to pay extra fees for excess baggage or leave some items behind. The charges for excess baggage can vary with airlines you choose.
Traveling light is strongly recommended when flying to Lukla. Given the weight limitations and potential flight disruptions due to weather conditions, it's best to pack only the essentials and keep your baggage within the specified limits to avoid any inconveniences or additional costs.
Lukla Flight Delays And Cancellations
Flight delays and cancellations to and from Lukla Airport are not uncommon and are often due to a combination of factors related to the airport's unique location, weather conditions, and the limitations of the aircraft used for these flights.
1. Weather Conditions:
- Unpredictable Weather: Lukla Airport, is highly vulnerable to rapidly changing weather conditions. The airport's mountainous terrain means it's often shrouded in fog, cloud cover, and receives high winds, making flying conditions challenging.
- Low Visibility: Low visibility due to fog or cloud cover can lead to flight delays or cancellations, as pilots require clear visibility to navigate the treacherous mountainous terrain.
2. Limited Instrumentation:
- Lukla Airport lacks advanced navigation and landing systems. The absence of instrument landing systems and radar technology means flights often rely on visual flight rules (VFR), which require good weather conditions to operate safely.
3. Airport Congestion:
- During peak trekking seasons, Lukla Airport experiences congestion as numerous trekkers, climbers, and supplies try to access the region. The limited infrastructure and parking space can lead to delays.
4. Safety Considerations:
- Safety is a top priority for airlines operating in this region. If weather conditions are unfavorable or if there are safety concerns, airlines may choose to delay or cancel flights to ensure the well-being of passengers and crew.
5. Limited Window for Flights:
- Lukla flights typically operate in the early morning when the weather is relatively stable. This limited window means there's less flexibility to reschedule flights if conditions deteriorate.
6. Seasonal Variations:
- Flight disruptions can vary with the seasons. Peak trekking seasons (spring and autumn) are more susceptible to delays due to higher passenger volumes and less favorable weather patterns. Off-peak seasons (summer and winter) may see fewer disruptions.
Given these challenges, trekkers and travelers to the Everest region should be prepared for the possibility of flight delays and cancellations.
