Everest Base Camp Trek Nepal

Arrive in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal and widely known as the Temple City, located in the heart of the Himalayas and serving as the starting point of your journey through the greater Himalayan region of South Asia. The city is located at an elevation of approximately 1,400 meters (4,593 feet).

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be welcomed in the arrival hall by an airport representative from Jagadamba Holidays, our appointed local partner in Nepal. The representative will be easily identifiable by a clearly displayed welcome sign bearing the name “Natura Himalaya Tours.”

You will then be transferred by private vehicle to your hotel in Thamel, Kathmandu’s main tourist district. The airport transfer covers a distance of approximately 7 kilometers and usually takes around 40 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Upon arrival at the hotel, luggage assistance will be provided. Early check-in is subject to availability; if rooms are not immediately ready, your luggage will be securely stored. Overnight accommodation with breakfast will be provided on a twin-sharing basis in a deluxe room at Kathmandu Guest House or a similar standard hotel in Thamel.

The remainder of the day is free for leisure, allowing time to relax or explore Kathmandu’s cultural attractions at your own pace. Thamel offers a variety of cafés, local shops, and traditional streets, providing a gentle introduction to the city’s atmosphere.

In the afternoon or early evening, you will meet our local partner and tour coordinator, Mr Narendra Bohara, at the hotel for a personal orientation session. During this meeting, the trekking plan will be discussed, your local trekking guide will be introduced, necessary travel procedures will be completed, and any remaining arrangements finalised. The remainder of the day is left free, allowing you to rest after your journey and slowly adjust to the rhythm of Nepal’s capital city.

Upon arrival in Lukla, whether flying from Kathmandu or via Ramechhap, there is time to rest, organize trekking gear, and meet your porter before beginning the trek. After a short tea break, the trail descends gently toward Phakding (2,620 m / 8,595 ft), following the Dudh Koshi River and passing through traditional Sherpa villages via Nurning Ghat (2,590 m / 8,497 ft).

The trek covers approximately 8.5 km and takes about 3–4 hours, with a total ascent of around 190 m and a descent of approximately 380 m. This relaxed first trekking day allows for gradual acclimatization while enjoying forested trails, suspension bridges, and scenic Himalayan river valleys.

Phakding (2,620 m / 8,596 ft) is a picturesque riverside village and a popular first overnight stop on the Everest trekking route, offering a gentle introduction to the trek and attractive mountain scenery. There is time to relax and enjoy the surroundings, and overnight accommodation is arranged at Namaste Lodge, a simple, clean, and comfortable mountain lodge with all meals included, providing a pleasant and restful stay. In the evening, the trek is led by a professional local Nepalese guide, who will brief you on the journey ahead and outline the plan for the following day, ensuring a well-organised and enjoyable Everest region trekking experience.

Important Flight Information:
If direct flights from Kathmandu to Lukla are unavailable, travel is routed via Ramechhap (Manthali Airport, 132km & 5 hrs). Guests either depart Kathmandu very early (around 2:00 AM) to catch the same-day Lukla flight or travel in the afternoon (around 3:00 PM) and stay overnight in Manthali.

The direct Kathmandu–Lukla flight takes approximately 35 minutes and usually operates early in the morning, subject to weather conditions and domestic flight schedules. We generally use reliable airlines such as Sita Airlines.

When flying via Ramechhap, the scenic Manthali–Lukla flight takes approximately 20 minutes, offering stunning Himalayan views before landing at Lukla – Tenzing-Hillary Airport.

After a hearty breakfast at the lodge in Phakding, the trek begins towards Namche Bazaar (3,440 m / 11,286 ft), following the trail through Monjo (2,835 m). The route follows the Dudh Koshi River, crossing several high suspension bridges adorned with colourful prayer flags. Along the route, the path winds through authentic Sherpa settlements, shaded pine woodlands, and seasonal rhododendron groves, with frequent glimpses of towering Himalayan peaks covered in snow.

The Phakding to Namche Bazaar trek is one of the most popular sections of the Everest Base Camp trekking route. This trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar covers approximately 9.5 kilometres and usually takes 5–6 hours to complete. The trail gains about 860 metres in elevation with a descent of 190 metres, featuring gradual climbs followed by the famous steep ascent into Namche Bazaar. This section of the Everest trek is considered moderate, making it ideal for acclimatisation and an essential part of any Everest Base Camp trek itinerary.

Namche Bazaar (3,440 m / 11,286 ft) is the largest Sherpa settlement in the Khumbu region and a major trading hub, offering a lively atmosphere with shops, cafés, and bakeries set against a dramatic Himalayan backdrop. Overnight accommodation is arranged at Khumbu Lodge, a simple, clean, and comfortable mountain lodge along the Everest trekking route, providing a welcoming and restful stay. The trek is led by a professional local Nepalese guide, ensuring a safe, well-organised, and enjoyable Everest region trekking experience.

An acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar is essential for anyone trekking in the Everest region. Spending an extra day at this altitude allows the body to gradually adapt to thinner air, significantly reducing the risk of altitude sickness later in the journey. Rather than complete rest, a short hike to a higher elevation followed by a return to sleep lower is the most effective acclimatization method and plays a crucial role in the success of any Everest region trek.

The Namche Bazaar acclimatization hike to Khunde covers approximately 8 kilometres and takes around 5–6 hours round trip. The trail ascends about 550 metres and descends the same amount, following well-maintained paths above Namche. This section of the trek offers expansive mountain scenery and a steady uphill walk, making it ideal for acclimatization while remaining physically manageable. The route provides excellent views of the surrounding Himalayan landscape and prepares trekkers for higher elevations ahead.

A major highlight of the hike is a visit to the iconic Everest View Hotel (3,880 m), widely regarded as one of the best viewpoints of Mount Everest and among the world’s highest-located hotels. From its open terrace, trekkers can enjoy spectacular views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. This is an ideal place to pause for refreshments, photography, and rest before continuing on to Khunde, a traditional Sherpa village known for its cultural heritage.

After a hearty breakfast at the lodge in Namche Bazaar, the trek begins towards Phortse (3,810 m / 12,500 ft), following a scenic high trail over Mong La (3,975 m / 13,041 ft). The route gradually climbs above the Dudh Koshi valley, passing through alpine landscapes, rhododendron and juniper forests, and open hillsides. As the trail ascends, it offers wide-ranging views of the surrounding Himalayas, creating one of the most scenic walking days in the Everest region.

The Namche Bazaar to Phortse trek via Mong La covers approximately 10.5 kilometres and usually takes 5–6 hours to complete. The day includes an ascent of about 790 metres and a descent of 400 metres. Crossing Mong La provides spectacular panoramic views of Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Kangtega, with distant views of Mount Everest and Lhotse. From Mong La, the trail descends steeply to Phortse Tenga before a steady final ascent to Phortse village. This section of the Everest trek is considered moderate and is well suited for continued acclimatisation.

Phortse (3,810 m / 12,500 ft) is a quiet and traditional Sherpa village in the Khumbu region, set high above the main Everest Base Camp trail and known for its strong mountaineering heritage and peaceful atmosphere. The village offers impressive views of surrounding ridgelines and Himalayan peaks, and overnight accommodation is arranged at Little Sherpa Lodge, a simple, clean, and comfortable mountain lodge providing a restful stop on the trek. The journey is led by a professional local Nepalese guide, ensuring a safe, well-organised, and rewarding Everest region trekking experience.

After a hearty breakfast at the lodge in Phortse, the trek begins towards Dingboche (4,410 m / 14,469 ft), following a scenic trail through the historic Sherpa village of Pangboche (3,985 m / 13,074 ft). The route traverses open hillsides and alpine terrain, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan landscape. As the trail progresses, it passes through juniper and rhododendron vegetation and provides sweeping vistas of snow-covered peaks rising above the Imja Valley.

The Phortse to Dingboche trek via Pangboche covers approximately 12 kilometres and usually takes 6–7 hours to complete. The day includes an ascent of about 690 metres and a descent of 190 metres. This section of the Everest region trek offers continuous panoramic views of iconic mountains such as Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Taboche. The trail becomes more rugged as it approaches the Imja Valley, providing a rewarding high-altitude trekking experience and supporting ongoing acclimatisation.

Dingboche (4,410 m / 14,469 ft) is a well-known trekking village in the upper Khumbu region, often referred to as the “summer valley” due to its wide open pastures and dramatic mountain setting. Surrounded by stone-walled fields and dominated by the impressive south face of Ama Dablam, Dingboche is a key acclimatisation stop on the Everest Base Camp trekking route. Overnight accommodation is arranged at Hotel Tashi Delek, a simple, clean, and comfortable mountain lodge. The trek is led by a professional local Nepalese guide, ensuring a safe, well-organised, and memorable Everest region trekking experience.

An acclimatization day in Dingboche is essential for safe trekking at higher elevations in the Everest region. Spending an extra day here allows your body to adapt to the increasing altitude and significantly reduces the risk of altitude-related issues. Rather than complete rest, a controlled hike to a higher point followed by a return to Dingboche is the most effective acclimatization strategy and prepares you well for the days ahead.

The Dingboche to Nangkar Tshang acclimatization hike covers approximately 5 kilometres round trip and usually takes 4–5 hours to complete. The trail ascends steadily to an elevation of about 5,040 metres (16,535 ft), gaining and losing approximately 650 metres. As you climb above Dingboche, the route passes through alpine meadows and rocky terrain, offering increasingly impressive views of the surrounding Himalayas. From the viewpoint, trekkers are rewarded with outstanding panoramas of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and nearby peaks, making it one of the best acclimatization hikes in the upper Khumbu.

After returning to Dingboche, the remainder of the day is spent resting, hydrating, and enjoying the peaceful mountain environment. You may take short walks through the village, visit local tea houses, or simply relax at the lodge while taking in the dramatic scenery. In the evening, enjoy a warm meal and time with your trekking group, reflecting on the journey so far. This acclimatization day not only strengthens your physical readiness for higher altitudes but also enhances your overall Everest region trekking experience.

After a hearty breakfast at the lodge in Dingboche, the trek begins towards Lobuche (4,940 m / 16,207 ft), following a scenic high-altitude trail through Thukla Pass (4,830 m). The route gradually ascends through open alpine terrain and rugged glacial landscapes, offering dramatic views of surrounding peaks as the environment becomes increasingly stark and awe-inspiring.

The Dingboche to Lobuche trek via Thukla Pass covers approximately 8 kilometres and usually takes 4–5 hours to complete. The day includes an ascent of about 600 metres with minimal descent. One of the most moving sections of the Everest Base Camp trek is the climb to Thukla Pass, where memorials honour climbers who lost their lives on Mount Everest and neighbouring peaks. Beyond the pass, the trail continues across rocky moraine terrain with striking views of Pumori and Nuptse, making this a challenging yet deeply rewarding trekking day.

Lobuche is a small high-altitude settlement set beneath towering Himalayan giants and serves as an important overnight stop before reaching Everest Base Camp. Upon arrival, overnight accommodation is arranged at New EBC Guest House, offering simple, clean, and comfortable mountain lodging. The remainder of the day is spent resting, hydrating, and preparing for the final approach to Everest Base Camp. The trek is led by a professional local Nepalese guide, ensuring a safe, well-organised, and memorable Everest region trekking experience.

After a hearty breakfast at the lodge in Lobuche, the trek begins towards Gorak Shep (5,140 m / 16,864 ft), following a high-altitude trail across rocky moraines and glacial terrain. After checking into the lodge and taking a short rest, an exploratory hike continues to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m / 17,598 ft), the most iconic destination of the Everest region. This day marks a major highlight of the trek, combining physical challenge with unmatched Himalayan scenery.

The Lobuche to Everest Base Camp trek via Gorak Shep covers approximately 14 kilometres in total and usually takes 7–8 hours to complete. The route includes an ascent of about 424 metres and a descent of 224 metres. As the trail follows the edge of the Khumbu Glacier, trekkers are surrounded by dramatic ice formations and towering peaks. The terrain is rugged and demanding, but the sense of achievement grows with every step as you approach Everest Base Camp, a place that has inspired climbers and adventurers from around the world.

Gorak Shep (5,140 m / 16,864 ft) is the final settlement on the Everest Base Camp trekking route and serves as the overnight stop after visiting Base Camp. After returning from Everest Base Camp, overnight accommodation is arranged at Buddha Lodge, a simple, clean, and comfortable mountain lodge suited for high-altitude trekking. The remainder of the evening is spent resting, hydrating, and enjoying a warm meal, while the trek continues under the guidance of a professional local Nepalese guide, ensuring a safe, well-organised, and memorable Everest region trekking experience.

Experience the unforgettable magic of the Himalayas on an early morning hike to Kala Patthar (5,550 m / 18,209 ft), widely regarded as the finest viewpoint in the Everest region. Beginning the ascent before dawn, you climb beneath a canopy of stars and reach the summit just as the first sunlight ignites the surrounding peaks in soft shades of gold and pink. From Kala Patthar, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the entire Everest massif, including the legendary Mount Everest (8,848.86 m / 29,031.7 ft), creating a powerful and awe-inspiring moment that stands as the ultimate highlight of the trek.

After enjoying the sunrise and spending time at the summit, descend carefully back to Gorak Shep (5,140 m / 16,864 ft) for a well-earned breakfast. After breakfast, the trek continues downhill toward Pheriche, allowing the body to recover as the altitude gradually decreases. The route climbs briefly from Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar before descending through Lobuche (4,940 m / 16,207 ft) and crossing Thukla Pass (4,830 m / 15,846 ft), following rugged glacial moraines and wide alpine valleys.

The Kala Patthar sunrise hike and subsequent trek to Pheriche cover approximately 15 kilometres and typically take 7–8 hours to complete. The day involves a total ascent of around 390 metres and a descent of approximately 1,290 metres, making it a long but predominantly downhill trekking day. This route offers outstanding high-altitude scenery and provides favourable conditions for recovery toward the later stages of the Everest Base Camp Trek in Nepal.

Pheriche (4,371 m / 14,340 ft) is a well-known resting and acclimatisation village in the upper Khumbu region, set within a broad alpine valley surrounded by dramatic Himalayan scenery. Overnight accommodation is arranged at Himalayan Lodge, a simple, clean, and comfortable mountain lodge suitable for high-altitude trekking. The trek continues under the guidance of a professional local Nepalese guide, ensuring a safe, well-organised, and rewarding Everest region trekking experience.

After a hearty breakfast at the lodge in Pheriche, the trek begins toward Tengboche (3,860 m / 12,664 ft), one of the most spiritually significant villages in the Everest region. This day marks a gradual descent to lower altitude while still offering dramatic Himalayan scenery and a rich cultural experience along the trail. Along the way, the route passes through the traditional Sherpa village of Pangboche (3,985 m / 13,074 ft), known for its historic monastery and stone houses set against striking mountain scenery. From this section of the trail, trekkers enjoy outstanding views of Ama Dablam, Mount Everest, and Lhotse.

The Pheriche to Tengboche trek via Pangboche covers approximately 10 kilometres and usually takes 4–5 hours to complete. The route includes an ascent of about 160 metres and a descent of approximately 560 metres. The trail descends through alpine terrain and rhododendron forests before crossing the Dudh Koshi River, followed by a steady climb up to Tengboche.

Tengboche (3,860 m / 12,664 ft) is home to the famous Tengboche Monastery, the most important spiritual centre in the Khumbu region, set on a ridge with magnificent mountain views. Upon arrival, overnight accommodation is arranged at Tashi Delek Lodge, a simple, clean, and comfortable mountain lodge. The trek continues under the guidance of a professional local Nepalese guide, ensuring a safe, well-organised, and rewarding Everest region trekking experience.

After a hearty breakfast at the lodge in Tengboche, the trek begins toward Monjo (2,835 m / 9,301 ft), descending through scenic Himalayan landscapes and traditional Sherpa settlements. This day involves a long descent to a lower altitude while still offering impressive Himalayan scenery and cultural experiences along the trail. Along the way, the route passes through the village of Kyangjuma (3,600 m / 11,811 ft), also commonly spelled Kenjuma, a small settlement in the Khumbu region known for its panoramic viewpoints. From this section of the trail, trekkers enjoy outstanding views of Ama Dablam, Mount Everest, and Lhotse.

The Tengboche to Monjo trek covers approximately 15.5 kilometres and usually takes 6–7 hours to complete. The route includes an ascent of about 400 metres and a descent of approximately 1,450 metres. The trail descends through alpine terrain and forested valleys before crossing the Dudh Koshi River, followed by further descent toward Monjo.

Monjo is a small village located in the Dudh Koshi Valley and serves as the official entrance point to Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Upon arrival, overnight accommodation is arranged at Alpine Valley Lodge, a comfortable mountain lodge. The trek continues under the guidance of a professional local Nepalese guide, ensuring a safe, well-organised, and rewarding Everest region trekking experience.

After a hearty breakfast at the lodge in Monjo, the trek begins toward Lukla (2,846 m / 9,350 ft), following the classic Everest trekking route through the village of Phakding (2,620 m / 8,596 ft). This day offers a scenic and enjoyable walk through the lower Khumbu region, combining lush river valleys, forested trails, and traditional Sherpa settlements. Along the way, the trail follows the course of the Dudh Koshi River, passing mani walls, prayer wheels, suspension bridges, and small monasteries that reflect the strong spiritual and cultural heritage of the Everest region. The surrounding landscape features green hillsides, terraced fields, and distant mountain views, creating a relaxed and rewarding trekking experience.

The Monjo to Lukla trek via Phakding covers approximately 12.5 kilometres and usually takes 4–5 hours to complete. The route includes an ascent of about 410 metres and a descent of approximately 330 metres, making it a moderately paced walk suitable for trekkers of all experience levels. The trail passes through forested terrain with rhododendron and pine trees, crosses several suspension bridges high above the river, and includes gentle ascents and descents as it gradually climbs toward Lukla. This section of the Everest trekking route is well maintained and offers a comfortable final day on the trail.

Lukla (2,846 m / 9,350 ft) is a lively mountain town best known for its airport, which serves as the main gateway to trekking routes in the Everest region. The settlement is a hub for trekkers, guides, and porters, with a vibrant atmosphere reflecting the start and end point of many Himalayan adventures. Upon arrival, overnight accommodation is arranged at Buddha Lodge, a comfortable mountain lodge. The trek concludes under the guidance of a professional local Nepalese guide, ensuring a safe, well-organised, and rewarding Everest region trekking experience.

Note for Trekking Success Celebration
As a common practice in Nepal’s trekking tourism industry, on the last night of the trek, guests may choose to offer a farewell dinner to the trekking team (guides and porters) to celebrate the successful completion of the tour; however, this is entirely optional and not mandatory. If guests decide to organise such a celebration, no alcohol of any kind should be offered, as alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited for trekking staff by our local partner in Nepal throughout the entire trekking journey to ensure safety and professionalism.

After a hearty breakfast at the lodge in Lukla, your Everest adventure trek concludes with a scenic return flight to Kathmandu. This short mountain flight provides a final opportunity to enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the Himalayan landscapes you have explored during your trek. Departing from Lukla Airport, known for its short and challenging runway, the flight itself is an exciting and memorable experience.

The Lukla to Kathmandu flight typically takes around 30–40 minutes, depending on weather conditions. Shortly after take-off, the aircraft ascends above deep valleys, glacial rivers, and rugged terrain. On clear days, passengers may enjoy spectacular views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu, offering a striking contrast between snow-capped peaks and the landscapes below.

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan Domestic Airport, you are welcomed back to the vibrant atmosphere of Kathmandu and transferred to your hotel. Overnight accommodation is arranged at Kathmandu Guest House. The transition from the tranquillity of the mountains to the lively capital highlights Nepal’s remarkable diversity, marking the end of your Everest trekking journey and leaving you with lasting memories of an extraordinary Himalayan experience.

Important Flight Note
Please note that if a direct flight from Lukla to Kathmandu is not available on the scheduled travel date, the flight will be rerouted via Ramechhap. In such cases, we will arrange a private overland transfer from Ramechhap to Kathmandu. This scenic road journey covers approximately 132 kilometres and takes around 6 hours to complete, offering views of rural landscapes, river valleys, and countryside along the way.

This buffer day in Kathmandu is deliberately built into the itinerary to allow flexibility in the event of flight delays or weather-related disruptions when returning from the Everest region. Flights from Lukla are highly dependent on mountain weather, and including this day helps protect onward travel plans, ensuring a smooth and stress-free conclusion to your Himalayan trekking experience.

If flights operate as scheduled and weather conditions are favourable, the day may be used for optional sightseeing in the Kathmandu Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its rich cultural, historical, and spiritual heritage. The valley encompasses seven monument zones, each showcasing distinctive elements of Nepalese art, architecture, and living traditions.

Possible highlights include Kathmandu Durbar Square, where historic palaces, temples, and courtyards reflect the city’s royal past, Swayambhunath (the Monkey Temple) with panoramic views over the valley, Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest and most important Buddhist stupas in the world, and Pashupatinath Temple, Nepal’s most sacred Hindu temple located along the Bagmati River. Any sightseeing activities on this day are optional and can be arranged as a private guided tour at short notice, subject to availability and at an additional cost.

Whether required as a contingency day or used for cultural exploration, this buffer day adds valuable flexibility to your itinerary while offering an opportunity to experience the vibrant heritage and atmosphere of the Kathmandu Valley.

As your remarkable adventure through the Himalayas comes to a close, take a moment to reflect on the awe-inspiring landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unforgettable experiences that have defined your journey. From towering mountain scenery to the warm hospitality of local communities, each step has created lasting memories of connection and discovery in Nepal.

Airport Transfer Arrangement
For a smooth and stress-free departure, a representative of our trusted local partner in Nepal will meet you at your hotel approximately 3.5 hours before your scheduled flight. The team will ensure a reliable and comfortable transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport, allowing you to conclude your Nepal experience with ease and peace of mind.

We sincerely thank you for traveling with us and look forward to welcoming you again on future journeys across the Himalayas and beyond.