Everest Base Camp Trek

Altitude above sea level: 1,302 m / 4,269 ft.

Driving Time: Approx. 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Accommodation: Hotel Tibet or similar

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu,, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative, who will be holding a “Nepal Sanctuary Treks” sign outside the terminal to greet you.

You will be transferred to your hotel in a private vehicle. After checking in and freshening up, our representative will meet you to give a detailed briefing on the upcoming itinerary, along with important safety guidelines and hygiene practices to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trek.

Altitude above sea level: 493 m/1,617 ft.- Mulkot
Accommodation: Hotel
Tour Duration: Approx. 4 hrs.
Drive Duration: Approx. 3 hrs.

Start your cultural adventure in Kathmandu, where you’ll experience the city’s vibrant colors, sounds, and flavors. Our expert guides will provide insights into the city’s rich history and landmarks.

Kathmandu Durbar Square:

Visit Kathmandu Durbar Square (Hanuman Dhoka Durbar), a royal historical complex filled with temples, palaces, and shrines from the 15th century. Highlights include Kumari Ghar (the home of the living goddess) and Kasthamandap, an architectural marvel built from a single tree.

Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple):

Next, visit Swayambhunath, a sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists. The magnificent stupa offers stunning views, and the sound of the chant “Om Mani Padme Hum” creates a serene atmosphere.

Afternoon Drive to Mulkot:

In the afternoon, take a scenic drive to Mulkot, just 37 km from Manthali Airport, for a relaxing end to your day.

Altitude Above Sea Level:

• Lukla: 2,840m /9,315ft.

• Phakding: 2,610m/8,563ft.

Driving Duration: Approx. 1 hour (Mulkot to Ramechhap)
Flight Duration: Approx. 25 minutes
Flight Time: 6:15 AM
Hiking Duration: 4-5 hours
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Start your day with an early breakfast, then head to Ramechhap Airport for an unforgettable scenic flight to Lukla, renowned for its thrilling mountain airstrip. During the flight, enjoy breathtaking views of towering Himalayan peaks like Cho Oyu (8,153m/26,781ft), Lhotse (8,516m/27,940ft), Gauri Shankar (7,145m/23,444ft), and Menlungtse (7,181m/23,557ft).

Upon your arrival in Lukla, the real adventure begins as you trek toward Phakding. The trail follows the picturesque Dudh Koshi River (Milk River), known for its milky-blue waters that flow from glaciers high above. As you walk, you’ll pass through traditional Sherpa villages, suspension bridges, prayer wheels, and carved Mani stones, immersing yourself in the local culture and breathtaking scenery.

After passing through charming villages like Chaurikharka and Ghat, you’ll reach Phakding, a serene village by the Dudh Koshi River. This is the first stop on your epic journey to Everest Base Camp.

Altitude Above Sea Level: 3,445m/11,302ft.-Namche
Hiking Duration: 6-7 hours approx.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, your trek today will involve crossing and re-crossing the powerful Dudh Koshi River, famously known for its milky color, which originates from glaciers. The trail takes you through lush pine forests and open clearings that reveal stunning terraced fields and diverse crops. Along the way, you will encounter groups of donkeys and yaks transporting goods and trekking gear.

You will pass through the villages of Benkar, Monjo, and Jorsale, before beginning the steep ascent of 2,000 feet to the bustling town of Namche Bazaar.

Namche is the largest town in the Khumbu region, nestled between mountain ranges, with views opening towards the Dudh Koshi River. This lively town is the central hub for the region, where you can find everything from food and supplies to mountain climbing gear. Historically, Namche has served as a crucial meeting point for Hindu traders from the lowlands and Tibetan yak caravans, making it a vibrant cultural melting pot in the heart of the Himalayas.

Altitude Above Sea Level: 3,962m/12,997ft.
Hiking Duration: 2-3 hours approx. (Hotel Everest View)
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Namche is the perfect spot for acclimatization, offering stunning views and plenty of exciting activities. The surrounding landscape is breathtaking, making it an excellent base for exploration. Start with a short hike above Namche to enjoy panoramic views of Mount Everest. The trail leading to Hotel Everest View is a gentle walk across a ridge, where you might spot yaks grazing or a Himalayan Tahr (wild goat) balancing on the cliffs.

Hotel Everest View sits majestically on a ridge, offering spectacular views of the Everest Region and blending perfectly with its natural surroundings. Be sure to visit the Sherpa Culture Museum, which offers fascinating insights into the rich cultural heritage of the Sherpa people.

After a day of exploration, take the downhill trail back to Namche. Spend the afternoon at your leisure, relaxing or discovering the vibrant Namche Bazaar, a lively market hub in the heart of the Khumbu region.

Altitude above sea level: 3,790 m /12,434 ft.-Khumjung

Hiking Duration: 5-6 hrs. Approx.

Accommodation: Tea House Lodge

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and  Dinner

Altitude above: 3,810 m /12,500 ft.- Phortse

Hiking Duration: 5 hrs. Approx.

Accommodation: Tea House Lodge

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Today’s trek takes you to Phortse, a peaceful Sherpa village tucked away in the mountains. As you journey through lush rhododendron forests, you may spot wildlife such as Himalayan Tahr and vibrant pheasants. Surrounded by towering peaks, Phortse provides an ideal opportunity to relax, reflect, and fully immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the region. It’s the perfect place to unwind and recharge on your adventure.

Altitude above sea level: 4,350 m/14,272 ft. – Dingboche
Hiking duration: 5-6 hrs. approx.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today, we leave Phortse behind and begin our trek along the high trail, renowned for its stunning views of towering mountains and deep valleys. The trail winds through dry, rocky hills, gradually ascending as we pass through traditional Sherpa villages like Pangboche, home to an ancient monastery built around a sacred rock where a legendary lama once meditated. Inside, you’ll find ancient sculptures, crumbling relics, wrathful idols behind sealed doors, and carved masks used in ritual summer dances.

Next, we continue to Shomare (4,120 m) for lunch, where you can rest and refuel. During the hike, keep an eye out for musk deer, mountain goats, and a variety of birds. Along the way, you will enjoy spectacular views of Ama Dablam, Nuptse, and the world-renowned Mount Everest.

After lunch, we proceed up the glacial valley to Dingboche, passing beautifully carved Khumbu prayer stones. As we approach Dingboche, we are welcomed by a Buddhist Stupa marking our entry into this peaceful village. Situated at the base of the towering Ama Dablam, Dingboche offers unparalleled views of the surrounding peaks, many of which are hidden from Namche’s perspective. This tranquil village provides the perfect opportunity to relax and soak in the breathtaking beauty of the Everest Region.

Altitude above sea level:

• Nangkartshang: 5,080 m (16,700 ft)

• Chukung Village: 4,730 m (15,518 ft)

• Samso Chopo Ridge: 5,140 m (16,864 ft)

Hiking duration:

• Optional hike to Nangkartshang (Viewpoint): 3 hours approx.

• Chukung Village hike: 5-6 hours approx.

• Samso Chopo Ridge hike: 6 hours approx.
  Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
  Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

On Day 8, you’ll spend your acclimatization day in Dingboche, helping your body adjust to the increasing altitude through short hikes. This is a crucial part of your Everest Base Camp trek to ensure your safety and comfort as you venture higher into the mountains.

Acclimatization Hike Options:

1. Hike to Nangkartshang (Viewpoint):
   A short and rewarding 3-hour hike takes you to Nangkartshang Hill, located above Dingboche on the edge of the Chukkung Valley. From here, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of towering peaks like Lobuche East (6,119 m), Lobuche West (6,145 m), Kangtega (6,685 m), Taboche Peak (6,367 m), Thamserku (6,608 m), and Ama Dablam (6,856 m). The stunning vistas make it a perfect spot for photos and reflection.

2. Chukung Village Hike:
   If you prefer a longer excursion, you can head out for a 5-6 hour hike towards Chukung Village, an essential stop for trekkers heading to Island Peak. Along the way, enjoy incredible views of Ama Dablam, Makalu, and other spectacular Himalayan peaks. Chukung offers a quiet retreat and a close-up look at the traditional Sherpa way of life.

3. Samso Chopo Ridge Hike:
    This less-travelled trail provides a 360-degree view of the Mahalangur Himal Range and surrounding peaks. Though the hike involves a steep 2,700-foot climb, the rewards at the summit are unparalleled, with breathtaking views across the entire region.

All these hikes are designed to help you acclimatize and prepare for the higher altitudes ahead while immersing yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of the Everest Region.

Altitude Above Sea Level: 4,931 m/16,175 ft. – Lobuche
Hiking Duration: Approx. 5 hours
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After an early breakfast, you begin your trek with a gradual ascent along a plateau dotted with yak herder shelters. The path offers stunning views of iconic peaks like Everest, Cholatse, Lobuche, and Pumori, creating a dramatic and breathtaking landscape around you.

After about two and a half hours of steady hiking, you’ll reach Thugla, a settlement located below the terminal moraine of the Khumbu Glacier, the highest glacier in the world. From here, the trail takes you up the moraine, passing the Climber and Sherpa Memorial, which honors those who have tragically lost their lives on Everest. Some of the memorials feature inscriptions detailing their heroic efforts, while others are simple piles of rocks, marking the lives of unsung adventurers.

Leaving the tree line behind, you now find yourself in the expansive glacial moraine, where the landscape becomes more rugged and surreal. This is where you will first catch sight of Kala Patthar, a famous viewpoint that offers one of the best panoramic views of Mount Everest. The trail then gradually descends, leading you towards the Lobuche Valley, where you’ll rest and reflect on the awe-inspiring journey ahead.

Altitude Above Sea Level:

• Gorak Shep: 5,288 m/17,340 ft.

• Everest Base Camp (EBC): 5,360 m/17,590 ft.

Hiking Duration:

• Lobuche to Gorak Shep: Approx. 3 hours

• Everest Base Camp: Approx. 4–5 hours

Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today is the highlight of your Everest Base Camp trek. After breakfast, head out for a thrilling journey to Gorak Shep via the rocky terrain of the Khumbu Glacier. The incredible views of the Khumbu Icefall and towering peaks set the stage for your adventure.

After a well-deserved lunch in Gorak Shep, continue your trek to EBC. The final stretch takes you past vibrant prayer flags to the iconic base camp, where you’ll stand in awe, surrounded by Everest and the stunning Himalayas.

Celebrate this once-in-a-lifetime achievement, then head back to Gorak Shep to reflect on your journey. Reaching Everest Base Camp is an unforgettable milestone—don’t miss it!

Altitude Above Sea Level:

• Kalapathar: 5,545 m/18,192 ft.

• Pheriche: 4,240 m/13,907 ft.

Hiking Duration:

• Gorak Shep to Kalapathar: Approx. 3 hours

• Pheriche: Approx. 5 hours

Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Start the day early with a rewarding hike to Kalapathar, the iconic viewpoint at 5,545 m (18,192 ft.). Known for its breathtaking panoramic views, Kalapathar offers a perfect view of Mount Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Pumori, and other majestic peaks. Catch the stunning sunrise or sunset as the mountains are bathed in golden light – a moment you won’t forget.

After soaking in the views, descend back to Gorak Shep for a hearty breakfast. Continue your journey down to Pheriche, where you can relax and reflect on your Everest adventure.

Altitude above sea level: 3,445 m /11,302 ft.- Namche

Hiking Duration: 8 hrs. Approx.

Accommodation: Tea House Lodge

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

After breakfast, begin your descent from Namche, retracing your steps as you return to the tree line. You’ll pass through Pangboche and make a short climb towards Tengboche, home to the famous Tengboche Monastery, perched beautifully on a hill with a backdrop of towering peaks. From here, enjoy sweeping views of the Dudh Koshi and Imja Khola rivers and a chance to spot wild animals like Tahr, Goral, and musk deer.

The area is teeming with wildlife, including yellow-billed choughs and black ravens. If you’re trekking in October-November, you might also experience the vibrant Mani Rimdu Festival at the Tengboche Monastery.

After soaking in the stunning scenery and cultural experiences, continue your descent back to Namche, where you’ll end the day and relax.

Altitude above sea level: 2,840 m /9,315 ft.-Lukla

Hiking Duration: 7 hrs. approx.

Accommodation: Tea House Lodge

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

On your way back to Lukla, the final stretch of the trek rewards you with spectacular views as you retrace your steps through lush forests, cross crystal-clear rivers, and pass through picturesque villages. This day is a blend of emotions—excitement at nearing your destination, yet a bittersweet sense of nostalgia as you reflect on the unforgettable adventure through the towering Himalayas. As you near the end of your journey, you’re left with lasting memories and a deep appreciation for the awe-inspiring landscapes that have defined your trek.

Altitude above sea level: 1,302 m / 4,272 ft.-Kathmandu

Flight Duration: 25 minutes

Drive Duration: 4 hrs. Approx.

Accommodation: Hotel Tibet or similar

Meal: Breakfast and Lunch

After a scenic flight from Lukla, you’ll return to Kathmandu where you’ll have time to reflect on your incredible journey. Enjoy the final moments of your adventure by shopping for souvenirs, exploring the vibrant streets, or simply soaking in the energy of Nepal’s bustling capital. This marks the end of your unforgettable trek, with memories that will last a lifetime.

Altitude above sea level: 1,302 m / 4,272 ft.-Kathmandu

Accommodation: Hotel Tibet or similar

Meal: Breakfast 

It’s also a spare day in case of bad weather in Lukla if we could not fly on the scheduled date and time, or we can organize a guided day tour in or around Kathmandu. You can spend your leisure time shopping for souvenirs for your beloved ones or simply relax after an exhausting but momentous adventure.

Meal: Breakfast

As your unforgettable journey comes to an end, it’s time to fly back home, cherishing all the incredible memories of Nepal. A representative from Nepal Sanctuary Treks will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA). Please make sure to check in 3 hours prior to your scheduled flight for a smooth departure.