Follow legendary Himalayan trails through Sherpa villages, ancient monasteries and spectacular mountain landscapes to Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar, the finest viewpoint in the Everest Region
The Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the world’s most iconic trekking adventures, taking you deep into the heart of the Khumbu Region beneath the highest mountain on Earth. Combining spectacular Himalayan scenery, rich Sherpa culture, ancient monasteries and unforgettable mountain landscapes, this classic journey follows historic trails to Everest Base Camp (5,364m) and the legendary viewpoint of Kala Patthar (5,545m).
Beginning with a thrilling mountain flight to Lukla, the trail follows the Dudh Koshi Valley through traditional Sherpa villages, colourful prayer-flag-lined suspension bridges and the breathtaking landscapes of Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Along the way, trekkers encounter vibrant settlements such as Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche and Lobuche while enjoying increasingly dramatic views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku and countless other Himalayan peaks.
The highlight of the trek is reaching Everest Base Camp itself, standing beneath the Khumbu Icefall and witnessing the immense scale of the world’s highest mountain. A sunrise ascent of Kala Patthar provides the finest panoramic views of Mount Everest and the surrounding Himalayan giants. Perfect for adventurous travellers seeking a classic Himalayan experience, the Everest Base Camp Trek remains one of Nepal’s most rewarding and unforgettable trekking journeys.
Everything you need to know at a glance before your Everest Base Camp Trek
Outline Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu, trek briefing and preparation.
Day 2: Drive to Manthali (4-5 hours), fly to Lukla (2,886m) and trek to Phakding (2,640m), approx. 3-4 hours.
Day 3: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m), approx. 5-6 hours.
Day 4: Acclimatisation hike to Everest View Hotel (3,880m) and return to Namche Bazaar.
Day 5: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,870m), approx. 5-6 hours.
Day 6: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche (4,410m), approx. 5-6 hours.
Day 7: Acclimatisation day in Dingboche with optional hikes to Nangkartshang Peak or Chhukung.
Day 8: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche (4,910m), approx. 6 hours.
Day 9: Trek to Everest Base Camp (5,364m) via Gorak Shep and return to Gorak Shep (5,170m), approx. 8-9 hours.
Day 10: Sunrise hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m) and trek to Pheriche (4,243m), approx. 9-10 hours.
Day 11: Trek from Pheriche to Phortse (3,810m), approx. 4 hours.
Day 12: Trek from Phortse to Monjo (2,835m), approx. 4-5 hours.
Day 13: Trek from Monjo to Lukla (2,886m), approx. 4-5 hours.
Day 14: Fly to Manthali and drive to Kathmandu, approx. 4-5 hours.
Day 15: Departure from Nepal.
Note: The itinerary is a guide only and may be subject to change at short notice due to weather conditions, flight schedules, trail conditions or operational requirements.
Note: All treks are led by professional trekking guides and porters.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival, Trek Briefing and Preparation
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be met by a member of our team and transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. After time to relax and recover from your journey, you will attend a detailed trek briefing with your guide. This is an opportunity to discuss the itinerary, check equipment and complete any last-minute preparations before heading into the Himalayas.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Drive to Manthali, Fly to Lukla (2,886m) and Trek to Phakding (2,640m) | Approx. 3-4 Hours (B L D)
A very early start to Manthali by road and then a short flight will take you to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. Upon arrival, begin trekking immediately along a pleasant trail through Sherpa settlements and forested hillsides. The route follows the Dudh Kosi River, passing mani walls, prayer wheels and suspension bridges before reaching the riverside village of Phakding.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 3: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m) | Approx. 5-6 Hours (B L D)
Following the Dudh Koshi River, the trail crosses several suspension bridges and passes through the villages of Benkar, Monjo and Jorsalle. After entering Sagarmatha National Park, the route begins the famous ascent to Namche Bazaar.
As you climb, your first views of Mount Everest may appear on clear days, accompanied by views of Lhotse, Nuptse and Kusum Kanguru. The final climb leads to Namche Bazaar, the vibrant commercial and cultural centre of the Khumbu Region.
Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
Day 4: Acclimatisation Hike to Everest View Hotel and Return to Namche Bazaar (B L D)
Acclimatisation is essential for a safe and enjoyable trek. Following the principle of “climb high, sleep low”, you will hike to Syangboche and the famous Everest View Hotel.
Weather permitting, the viewpoint offers magnificent panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku and Kusum Kanguru. Returning to Namche for lunch, the afternoon is free to relax or visit the Sagarmatha National Park Museum and viewpoint above the town.
Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
Day 5: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,870m) | Approx. 5-6 Hours (B L D)
Today’s trail offers some of the most iconic mountain views in the Everest Region. The route contours high above the Dudh Koshi Valley before descending to Phunki Tenga.
After lunch, a steady climb through rhododendron and pine forests leads to Tengboche Monastery, the spiritual heart of the Khumbu. Surrounded by Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse and Nuptse, the monastery occupies one of the most spectacular settings in the Himalayas.
Overnight in Tengboche.
Day 6: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche (4,410m) | Approx. 5-6 Hours (B L D)
Descending through forest to Deboche, the trail crosses the Imjatse River before continuing through Pangboche, one of the oldest Sherpa settlements in the region.
As the valley opens, views of Ama Dablam become increasingly impressive. Passing stone-walled fields and traditional villages, you arrive at Dingboche, a beautiful settlement situated beneath Lhotse and Island Peak.
Overnight in Dingboche.
Day 7: Acclimatisation Day in Dingboche (B L D)
Today provides valuable acclimatisation before continuing higher into the Khumbu.
Those feeling energetic may choose to hike to Nangkartshang Peak (5,083m), which offers exceptional views of Makalu, Lhotse, Ama Dablam and Island Peak. Alternatively, a gentler walk up the Imja Valley towards Chhukung provides excellent scenery and additional altitude gain.
The afternoon is free for rest and recovery.
Overnight in Dingboche.
Day 8: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche (4,910m) | Approx. 6 Hours (B L D)
The trail gradually climbs through open alpine terrain with spectacular views of Ama Dablam, Tawache and the surrounding peaks.
After lunch at Thukla, a steep ascent leads to the memorial site dedicated to climbers who lost their lives on Everest and neighbouring mountains. Continuing beside the Khumbu Glacier, the route reaches Lobuche.
Overnight in Lobuche.
Day 9: Trek to Everest Base Camp (5,364m) via Gorak Shep and Return to Gorak Shep (5,170m) | Approx. 8-9 Hours (B L D)
Today is one of the most anticipated days of the trek. Following the Khumbu Glacier, the trail leads to Gorak Shep before continuing across rocky moraines towards Everest Base Camp.
Standing at Everest Base Camp is an unforgettable experience. Surrounded by towering peaks, glaciers and the dramatic Khumbu Icefall, you gain a unique appreciation for the scale of the world’s highest mountain.
After celebrating your unforgettable ascend to the Everest Base Camp, return to Gorak Shep for the night.
Overnight in Gorak Shep.
Day 10: Sunrise Hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m) and Trek to Pheriche (4,243m) | Approx. 9-10 Hours (B L D)
Before dawn, begin the ascent to Kala Patthar, the finest viewpoint in the Everest Region. As the sun rises, Mount Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse and the surrounding peaks glow in the morning light, creating one of the most memorable moments of the entire trek.
After descending to Gorak Shep for breakfast, retrace your steps through Lobuche and Thukla before continuing to Pheriche.
Overnight in Pheriche.
Day 11: Trek from Pheriche to Phortse (3,810m) | Approx. 4 Hours (B L D)
Leaving the main Everest Base Camp trail behind, today’s route follows quieter paths through alpine terrain and traditional Sherpa settlements.
Passing through Pangboche and ancient mani walls, you continue to Phortse, a village renowned for producing the highest number of successful Everest climbers in the world. Less visited than other settlements in the Khumbu, Phortse offers a more authentic glimpse into Sherpa life.
Overnight in Phortse.
Day 12: Trek from Phortse to Monjo (2,835m) | Approx. 4-5 Hours (B L D)
A steep descent through forests leads to Mongla Pass, where magnificent views of Ama Dablam, Thamserku and Tengboche Monastery await.
The trail then returns to Namche Bazaar before continuing through Jorsalle and along the Dudh Koshi River to Monjo.
Overnight in Monjo.
Day 13: Trek from Monjo to Lukla (2,886m) | Approx. 4-5 Hours (B L D)
Your final day of trekking retraces the familiar route through forests, suspension bridges and Sherpa villages back to Lukla.
Arriving in Lukla provides an opportunity to celebrate completing one of the world’s greatest trekking adventures.
Overnight in Lukla.
Day 14: Fly to Manthali and drive to Kathmandu | Approx. 4-5 Hours (B)
Take an early morning flight from Lukla to Manthali and then a drive will take you to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy a well-earned rest after your journey through the Everest region.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 15: Departure from Nepal (B)
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight.
As you leave Nepal, take with you unforgettable memories of Everest Base Camp, Sherpa culture and the extraordinary landscapes of the Himalayas.
The itinerary is intended as a guide and may be subject to change at short notice due to weather conditions, flight schedules, trail conditions or operational requirements.
MEALS INCLUDED: B – breakfast | L – lunch | D – dinner
Note: All treks are led by professional trekking guides and porters.
Everest Base Camp Trek Map
Additional Information
Direct flights between Kathmandu and Lukla may be available depending on the season, weather conditions and airport traffic. During peak periods, flights are often operated via Manthali Airport.
The itinerary is intended as a guide and may be subject to change at short notice due to weather conditions, flight schedules, trail conditions or operational requirements.
MEALS INCLUDED: B – breakfast | L – lunch | D – dinner
Cost Includes
- Pre-trip advice and detailed information
- Expert trip leadership and motivated staff for the duration of the trek
- International & domestic airport transfers in Nepal (where applicable)
- 2 nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu: 1 night pre-trek & 1-night post-trek
- Transportation to and from trek start and finish for you and your trekking team (different budget options available)
- Basic teahouse accommodation during the trek on a twin sharing basis
- During the trek all meals on a full board basis (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) to include tea/coffee during the meals, but excluding any drinks outside of the meal times
- All permits, conservation area, and restricted area fees
- 1 porter for every two people
- Insurance and equipment for Nepali staff
- Rescue assistance
- Group medical kit
Cost Excludes
- International flights to and from Kathmandu, Nepal
- Visa for Nepal
- Travel insurance (insurance to include evacuation is mandatory. Please make sure you are covered to the correct altitude)
- Personal expenses such as fizzy drinks, chocolate, gifts, snacks, hot showers etc., during the trek
- Meals unless specified
- Sightseeing
- Gratuities
- Excess baggage on domestic flights
- Charges incurred as a result of delays beyond the control of Himalayan Quests
What to Bring
Himalayan Quests uses a layering system where different pieces of clothing are worn together or separately to achieve optimum body temperature control. The upper body garments listed here are either synthetic or merino wool garments that retain their insulating properties when wet, or nylon or Gore-Tex layers which help prevent heat loss by cutting wind, rain, and snow.
This is a guideline only
| UPPER BODY LAYERS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| T-Shirts – walking | 2 | We recommend merino wool, Capilene or other synthetic fabric as they wick away the moisture and dry quickly. No cotton. |
| T-shirt – sleeping | 1 | This can be cotton |
| Base layers (ie thermal top) | 1 | Lightweight or mid-weight long-sleeved t-shirt of merino wool, polyester, Capilene, or Polartec power dry |
| Top insulating Layers | 1 | Mid-weight fleece that can be worn over other layers |
| Fleece Vest | 1 | |
| Rain jacket | 1 | |
| Down Jacket | 1 | |
| LOWER BODY LAYERS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Underwear | Sufficient for the trek (remember you can wash them) | |
| Thermal long johns/long underwear | 1 | |
| Trekking Trousers | 2 | Lightweight quick-dry trousers (no cotton). Zip offs are good |
| Evening/sleeping trousers | 1 optional | 1 pair of lightweight tracksuit bottoms (sweat pants) or yoga style trousers for evening wear and sleeping in. No jeans. |
| Hiking Shorts | 1 | If no zip-off trousers. Below the knee for ladies |
| Rain Pants | 1 | |
| PACKS & BAGS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Day pack | 1 | Approx. 35ltrs. HQ will provide you with a duffle bag for your trekking gear |
| Sleeping bag with compression sack | 1 | Minimum 3 season |
| Sleeping bag liner | 1 | Optional |
FOOTWEAR
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Hiking boots | 1 | Must be well worn and comfortable with ankle support |
| Socks | 3 | |
| Sandals/Camp shoes | 1 | Lightweight for evening use |
| MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Water bottles | 2 | One liter each, Nalgene or Sig style or a bladder if preferred |
| Water purification drops | 1 | Cheap and easy to buy in Kathmandu (Piyus) |
| Lip Balm | 1 | With SPF factor |
| Sunscreen | 1 | We recommend SPF 30 or greater |
| Mosquito repellent | 1 | |
| Personal first aid kit | 1 | To include any prescribed medications |
| Sunglasses | 1 | |
| Bandana/Buff | 1 | Useful for a variety of purposes. |
| Flashlight /head torch | 1 | Head torch is best as it leaves your hands free + extra batteries |
| Travel towel | 1 | Lightweight and compact |
| Wash kit | Travel size items for the trek & eco friendly if possible | |
| Instant Hand Sanitizer | 1 | Alcohol-based for keeping hands clean |
| Sun hat | 1 | |
| Warm hat | 1 | |
| Gloves | 1 | |
| Trekking poles | Optional | |
| Trekking snacks | Good selection available in KTM | |
| Camera | With charger &/or extra batteries | |
| Toilet paper & rubbish bag | ||
| Book/journal | ||
| Pack of cards/travel game | 1 | For evening entertainment |
| Photocopies of all your important documents | ||
| Compression socks | 1 | Great for international flights & long road/jeep journeys |
| A great sense of humour & a positive attitude | Essential – don’t come without it!! | |
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FAQs for Everest Base Camp Trek
What will the food be like?
There are is a set menu that is used by all of the tea houses along the trek, with such foods as: Breakfast – porridge, eggs, Tibetan bread, rice pudding. Lunch/Dinner – dal bhat, pasta, soup, mo mos, eggs, chapati, noodles. Tea and coffee will be served at each meal.
What will the weather be like?
Generally, the weather is warm/hot during the day with the temperatures dipping at night into the early morning. The higher you go, the cooler the temperatures get. During the spring season the minimum night time temperature at Badal Dada / High Camp should be just below freezing, although it will depend on the weather at the time. During the autumn season, traditionally the minimum night time temperature will be below freezing, possibly as low as -5 to -10 degrees Celsius up high. The mountains have their own micro climates, and climate change is impacting the traditional weather patterns and you need to be prepared for all conditions – sun, rain, snow, ice.
Do I need travel insurance for trekking in Nepal?
Yes. We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that covers trekking at the maximum altitude of your chosen route, as well as emergency medical treatment and evacuation where appropriate.
What happens if I get sick or there is an emergency during the trek?
Our guides are trained to respond to common trekking emergencies and will coordinate assistance when necessary. Depending on the location and situation, this may involve rest and observation, descent, evacuation or medical support.
How do I deal with altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of age or fitness. Our itineraries are designed with acclimatisation in mind, and our guides monitor trekkers throughout the journey. Staying hydrated, walking at a steady pace and allowing your body time to acclimatise are important.
Will I be carrying my own gear on the trek? How much luggage can I take on a trek?
You will be provided with a duffle bag for your main trekking gear, which will be carried by a porter. The weight limit per person for this is 10kg. You will just carry your day pack with your personal items for the day.
Is there electricity / WiFi on the trek?
There is only mains electricity at the teahouses on the first and last night, the rest are all solar powered. You are able to charge your phones, camera batteries, however, the teahouse may make a small charge, especially where there is no mains power. Some trekking areas have mobile connectivity and Wi-Fi at certain villages, while remote sections may have little or no connectivity. We recommend being prepared for periods without a reliable signal.
What is the accommodation like on the trek? Do I need to bring a sleeping bag?
You will be sleeping in small, simple teahouses along the trek. The rooms are usually twin or triple. Single rooms cannot be guaranteed. Attached bathrooms might only be available on the first and last nights of the trek. Simple beds with a sheet and pillow are provided. A sleeping bag and liner will be provided for you during the trek.
What clothing/gear do I need to bring for the trek?
Please refer to the detailed gear list you have been provided with. Ladies, please make sure any trousers or shorts fall below the knee. Please make sure your walking boots are well worn in and comfortable. Technical gear such as ropes and crampons are not required for this trek, although micro spikes/Yak Trax will be useful if the conditions are snowy/icy up at high camp. These can be bought cheaply (c.£10 a pair) in Nepal.
Do I need previous trekking experience?
Not necessarily. You don’t need previous trekking experience, but a good level of physical fitness, proper preparation, and the ability to walk for several hours a day are important.
What is the best time of year to trek in Nepal?
The main trekking seasons are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when conditions are generally favourable. There are also some lower-altitude and rain-shadow treks that can be suitable during the monsoon, while winter offers clear skies but colder conditions at higher elevations.
18 Days
Everest Region
Strenuous/Difficult
