Everest Base Camp Trek - 14 Days

How high is Everest Base Camp?

EBC's elevation is 5,364 meters (17,598 feet), and it serves as a resting and preparation point for mountaineers who seek to conquer Mount Everest. However, this is not the highest point in the trek. The highest point reached on the EBC trek is at Kalapatthar, 5,555 meters (18,225 feet). It is also a popular vantage point from where you can enjoy clear views of Mount Everest and surrounding mountain peaks. It is the perfect viewpoint for travelers to enjoy and capture the wonders of the Khumbu region.

How Difficult is the EBC Trek?

Trekking to the base camp of Mount Everest is safe for individuals who are in good health and eager to begin the adventure. Outfitter Nepal has been organizing the EBC trek for over 15 years and has had many participants, including families with children and the elderly. The difficulty level of the trek will depend on your experience. You can complete the expedition efficiently by taking hikes and touring in the high-altitude region. On the other hand, it can be challenging if you don't have any prior experience. Regardless, you can enjoy the trek with adequate physical training and guidance from our expert team members. Apart from the physical strain the trek might cause, you might also experience the effects of increasing elevation during the trek. This might lead to altitude sickness, a severe condition with symptoms including headache, fatigue, lightheadedness, nausea, and shortness of breath. However, you can avert or prevent the illness with adequate rest and a balanced diet. Check out our blog on how difficult EBC Trek is.

How do we prevent altitude sickness during the EBC trek?

Altitude sickness is a potential risk factor during high-altitude expeditions like the Mount Everest Base Camp Trek. So, it is essential to adapt to the necessary preventive measures and consult medical experts. During the trek, we advise you to avoid the use of substances, including tobacco and alcohol, as they obstruct the process of acclimatization. In addition, you must adhere to specific rules, including consuming a carb-rich diet and maintaining hydration to aid your body in recovering from exhaustion. If you experience any early signs like nausea and dizziness, you must notify the trek leader immediately. You must not panic, as there will be medical kits to assess your condition and ease your symptoms. In the worst-case scenario, you will be evacuated via a helicopter and escorted to a hospital for further medical attention.

Accommodation during the Everest Base Camp trek

Teahouses and lodges are popular means of accommodation in the Everest base camp trekking routes. These establishments offer simple travel lodging and meals for travelers. Over the years, the teahouses and hotel in the area have improved their facilities in places like Lukla, Phakding, and Namche. Most of them provide a spacious room with an attached bathroom at no additional cost. In general, the dining spaces of these teahouses are cozy; accommodation is provided on a twin-sharing or single-occupancy basis. Moreover, you will be provided with services like wi-fi, electricity, and a hot water shower for an additional charge.

Note: Room costs in the teahouses can range from $10 to $30 per night, depending on the location and facilities.

Food options during The Everest Base Camp trekking

The teahouses en route follow hygienic guidelines for food preparation, ensuring clean and healthy meals. The ingredients used are sourced locally, guaranteeing the freshness of your foods. One of the staple meals of the trek is daal bhat, which includes rice, lentils, meats, vegetables, pickles, and other side disease. The teahouses also offer several menu options for Western cuisine, such as porridge, macaroni, pizza, oats, etc. Apart from the meals in the tea houses, we suggest you carry a few protein bars and dried fruits to boost your energy on the trails.

Note: The cost of food and Drinks during the EBC trek ranges from $5 to $20. However, the price might increase depending on the location and the type of accommodation you are staying in.

Permits for Everest Base Camp Trekking

You will need three permits for the Mount Everest Base Camp Trekking. It includes the Sagarmatha National Park permit, the Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) permit, and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu rural municipality entrance card. All of these permits are covered in our tour package. If you want to learn about their cost, they are listed down below:

Cost for the permits

Our package covers the permits required for the trek. Here is a brief overview of the cost of these permits.

• SAARC nationals: TIMS (NRS. 600), Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Card (NRS. 2,000), Sagarmatha National Park permit (NRS. 1,500).
• Foreign nationals: TIMS (NRS. 2,000), Khumbu Pasang Lhamy Rural Municipality Entrance Card (NRS. 2,000), Sagramatha National Park permit (NRS. 1,500).

Visa Information

A Nepal visa can be obtained upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport and at any border entry point in the country. A visa is not required to enter Nepa for Indian and Chinese nationals. Additionally, the visa cost does not apply to the nationals of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) for 30 days. Apart from the international airport, you can obtain a visa from Birgunj, Kakadvitta, Nepalgunj, Bhairahawa, kodari, Goddachowku, Nepal-China, and Nepal-India border. Also, you can apply for it online and obtain it from the nearest Diplomatic Mission or Nepal Embassy.

Cost for Nepal Visa

• 15 Days – 30 USD
• 30 Days – 50 USD
• 90 Days – 125 USD

Travel Insurance for EBC Trek

Although the Everest region of Nepal is a safe trek destination, you must prioritize the safety of your health and property. The unpredictable weather conditions in the high-altitude region, and the risk of altitude sickness, injury, and accidents are all significant concerns while trekking in the Himalayas. In such cases, you must be given immediate medical attention or even rescued using a helicopter. So, insurance ensures the arrangement of swift helicopter evacuation in emergencies. This will keep you safe, boost your morale during the trek, and enhance your overall experience. We suggest you ensure the insurance policy you purchased covers air evacuation over 5000 meters.

Internet & wi-fi availability during the EBC Trekking

The EBC Trek stands out as a developed and well-facilitated route compared to other trekking trails in Nepal. En route, you will have access to electricity and internet services at your teahouses and lodges. You must note that you will be charged an additional amount for using these services for a single device. While some teahouses provide these services for free, establishments at higher altitudes may incorporate these rules.

Internet cost in the Everest region

Airlink is a popular Internet service provider in the Everest region. It was established in 2016 to provide internet access to remote areas of Nepal. You can enjoy Airlink wi-fi en route or in teahouses for a specific price. The cost for the internet pack, valid for 24 hours, is NRS. 700, while for 48 hours, it's around NRS. 1200. For the price, the internet service is reliable and robust.

EBC Trek Packing List

Trekking through the Everest region of Nepal takes you to some remote areas where you will have to hike in challenging landscapes. You must prepare yourself adequately to protect yourself from injury and unpredictable weather conditions. Here is an equipment list to comprehensively overview the gear and equipment you must pack for the expedition.

The following are some essential items you must pack for the trek ahead.

General Gears and Equipment

• Sleeping Bag, Sleeping bag liner, Down jacket, Daypack.

Upper Body

• Sun hat, Beanie, Neck gaiter, Scarf, Sunglasses, Headlamp.

Torso

• Fabric base layer, Fabric short and long sleeve, Waterproof jacket, Windproof shell, Fleece jacket, Pullover.

Lower Body

• Fabric base layer, Hiking pants, Comfortable trousers, Hiking shorts, and undergarments.

Hands

• Fabric liner gloves, Hard-shell outer gloves.

Feet

• Fabric warm socks, Liner socks, Trekking Boots, Ice cleats, Micro Spikes, Casual shoes, Gaiters, and slippers.

Personal Kits and Medications

• Sunscreen, Lim balm, ointment, Mosquito repellent cream, Cough Syrup.

Toiletry kits

• Hydration bladder, Water purification tablets, Toilet paper, Wet wipes, Tissue paper, Hand sanitizers, Soap, Shampoo.

Other Essentials

• Reusable water bottle, Batteries, power bank, Whistle, Compass, Pocket knife, Camera.

Note: You can buy these gears and equipment in your spare time. Our guide will assist you with recommending and purchasing the essentials required for the trek ahead. Thamel, the tourist hub of Kathmandu, offers a wide range of shops with trekking equipment and supplies at affordable prices.

Extra Expenses during the EBC Trekking

Regarding the additional costs incurred during the expedition, a budget of approximately USD 200-300, excluding tips, is adequate for purchasing snacks and beverages. However, keep in mind that the amount of extra expenses will differ depending on your spending preferences and choices related to buying alcoholic beverages, souvenirs, and indulging in other activities.

Tipping During Your Everest trekking

Tipping is customary to express gratitude to guides and porters. Travelers should set aside 15% of their total trek cost to tip the staff members.

How much does tipping cost?

15% of the total trip cost must be divided between the porter and the guide. If the package price is $1,575, each of our clients should consider contributing $236 between the two (Guide and Porter). Tipping is generally an expression of rewarding the hard work our staff members put into your trek experience, safety, and well-being. However, the decision on the tipping amount depends on you, whether it’s 150% or more or less.

Everest Base Camp Trekking Booking Procedure

Outfitter Nepal is a government-licensed tour operator company offering top-quality services for over 15 years in Nepal. We are recognized as a member by governing bodies in the tourism industry, like the Trekking Association of Nepal (TAAN) and the Nepal Mountaineering Association(NMA). This further validates our authenticity and reputation as one of the best service providers in the market. You must deposit 10% of the total cost to reserve a trip with us. After you make the booking, please send us essential documents within weeks, including copies of passport, and bring insurance copy with you or you can send us via email before your arrival in Nepal. You can pay through Western Union, bank transfer, credit card, or cash. To proceed with the booking, please contact our representative for further details.

When is the best time to go on an Everest Base Camp Trek?

The best times to visit the Everest region are in the Autumn (September to mid-December) and spring (March to May). However, the trek is doable throughout the year with proper preparation and guidance.

How difficult is the Everest Base Camp Trek?

The difficulty of trekking in the Everest Region varies depending on the place you are going on a trek. The trek that only takes you to the Base Camp is rated moderately strenuous. Thus, you can start taking mild to regular exercises or cardio-related workouts to prepare yourself for the trek!

What is the weight limit for your luggage for your Lukla Flight?

The planes that fly to Lukla are small, and the total weight limit per person, including main luggage and hand luggage, is only 15 KG. You should be able to keep your luggage within 10 KG. You can pay an extra fee to take a few extra kilograms, but this is not assured because extra luggage is only accessible when additional space is avai

What is the weather like in the Everest Region?

At an altitude of 5364 meters, the temperature in the Everest region is extremely chilly, reaching almost -18 degrees Celsius. Thus, only a few individuals dare to trek to EBC during winter. Most people go on a trip in autumn or spring when the weather is more pleasant. For a more enjoyable trek experience, please update yourself on the weather during the trek.

Is there any internet or WIFI service in the Everest Region?

Yes, most guest houses/lodges in most places/villages along the trails have wi-fi, which will cost you some money. However, it is not guaranteed and may only function at some times, so don't count on it.

Do I have to book a package trek to EBC in advance?

You must book the trek in advance through the Internet or with a local company once you arrive in Nepal. There are many trekking agencies in Kathmandu that offer tours, and it is simple to book with any of them. However, we recommend booking the trek in advance because you can travel with peace of mind once you have booked and arranged the trek before you arrive in Nepal.

The company arranges airport transfers, hotels in Kathmandu, flights to Lukla, permits, trip lodging, and guides and porters, so it is quite easy to travel and trek in Nepal when you book and arrange the trek in advance.

Solo or Group trek to Everest base camp?

It is entirely up to you whether you want to trek solo or in a group. At Outfitter Nepal, we provide both options upon request. Both treks have advantages: if you book a private solo trek, you can trek at your own pace without feeling rushed, and you won't have to stick to a set itinerary because you'll have your private guide and porter. The private solo trek will cost you a little more than a group trek.

Is there any alternative to the classic Everest Base Camp Trek?

Yes, there are other tours where you can see the Everest and several other mountains without trekking to the EBC, such as a regular hour-long Everest Mountain flight tour that many domestic airlines offer every morning or a Helicopter flight tour that goes to the Everest and even lands in Kala Patthar to view the Everest and the other Himalayas. These trips are suitable for those with limited time or who are unable to trek and hike.

Is it mandatory to get travel insurance during my Everest Base Camp Trek?

Yes, travel insurance is mandatory because it is an adventure trek in the high Himalayas with inherent risks. You must have travel insurance covering emergency evacuation, as the helicopter is the only means of transporting you back to the city/Kathmandu in case of an accident or illness, including acute mountain sickness.

What is the budget for trekking to the base camp of Mt. Everest?

The cost of the trek varies depending on how you trek to Everest Base Camp. The basic 12-day trek from Kathmandu to Kathmandu costs around 1000.00 – 1200.00 USD per person and includes most of your needs. If you want to book the full 16-day trek, it costs between 1300.00 – 1600.00 USD, depending on different services and the company you choose. Your personal expenses will be an extra cost and take around 300 USD.

Is there any electricity source in the Everest Region?

Yes, most hotels/guest houses and most camps/villages have electricity to charge your camera and mobile batteries, and some sites even have solar power. However, there may not be enough power to charge your equipment, so we recommend bringing some spare batteries for the journey ahead.

How do I manage my water supply during the trek?

You can buy water purification tablets to purify your water source. You can also get free tap water, then use the medicine and drink the water, which is an excellent way to save money. However, bottled or boiled water is available in every lodge/teahouse. The cost of bottled water ranges from 100.00 to 350.00 NPR, and it is advisable to drink about 4-6 liters of water per day.

Do I need to carry my food during the Everest Trek?

No, you do not need to bring your food because meals are offered at the lodges/restaurants along the way. However, it is advised to pack some energy bars/chocolates, such as Snickers, Twix bars, and snacks, to help you acquire more energy during the trek.

Is a hot shower available at the tea houses or hotels during your trek to Everest Base Camp?

Yes, hot showers are obtainable in most of the lodges on the EBC trails; however, most people do not take showers every day on the trek; instead, they take showers just a few times, such as in Namche, Dingboche, and Lukla, where the cost of a shower ranges from 300.00 to 600.00 NPR.

How long does the overall Everest Base Camp Trek take?

The total length of the trek is determined by where you begin and end it. There are a few options for starting the trek, such as Jiri, Phaplu, or Lukla, but most people start the trek from Lukla. If you begin the trek from Lukla, it is approximately 130 kilometers from the base camp of Mount Everest and back, and it takes 10-14 days, depending on your pace and other factors.

What should you do if the Lukla flight is delayed or canceled?

The weather in Lukla is pretty unpredictable, especially during the monsoon season (June – September). Thus, you must have a couple of days at hand in case your flight is delayed or, in the worst-case scenario, canceled! You can either wait for the next day to get your flight, which is listed to fly the last the next day, or you can hire a helicopter service! It is really important to make up your mind that if the weather is really bad, sometimes even the helicopter does not fly!

Is it possible to do the EBC trek with my children?

The trek can certainly be done with your family and children. According to studies, altitude sickness affects youngsters at the same rate as adults. There is no indication that children are more susceptible to altitude sickness. Go with your child if he or she is physically and mentally capable of an altitude trek. However, on average, your children should be able to walk for 5-7 hours every day at a high altitude.

While traveling, remember to practice some simple workouts and breathing exercises. Avoid junk food and eat a more balanced diet with carbohydrates and fiber. Small children should not be brought; however, children over the age of 13 can attempt the hike.

Do I need to hire a guide and a porter for my trek to Everest Base Camp?

Although you can accomplish the trek without a guide and porter, we suggest you hire them. The Himalayas can be quite unpredictable, and having someone who knows the route will help you, particularly in case of emergencies. Similarly, a porter will carry most of our heavy luggage, and you will not be burnt out during the trek. Hiring a guide and a porter reduces many hassles for you!

Can I have an overnight stay at the base camp?

Only mountaineers who summit Everest are permitted to stay overnight at the base camp. Trekkers who only make it to the base camp region are not included. You can still get the permit, but it will be costly and less beneficial.

Should I carry Diamox if I catch Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)?

You must check with your doctor before leaving home and act on their advice, and we have discovered that many trekkers have done so. Even if Diamox is used for prevention, it may have certain side effects.

Everest Base Camp Trekking Booking Procedure

Outfitter Nepal is a government-licensed tour operator company that has been offering top-quality services for over 15 years in Nepal. Prestigious governing bodies in the tourism industry, like the Trekking Association of Nepal (TAAN) and the Nepal Mountaineering Association(NMA), recognize us as members. This further validates our authenticity and reputation as one of the best service providers in the market. To reserve a trip with us, you need to deposit 10% of the total cost. After you make the booking, please send us essential documents within a week, including copies of travel insurance, passport, and passport-size photos. You can make the payment through Western Union, bank transfer, credit card, or cash. To proceed with the booking, please contact our representative for further details.