Nepal · Trekking

12-Day Everest Base Camp Trek from Kathmandu with Kala Patthar

12 Days Round trip from Lukla Hard pace
Namche Bazaar
Lukla
Everest Trek Trail
Mount Everest view point
Snow trekking at Mount Everest base camp

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Journey to the world's highest peak, Mt. Everest
  • 02 Explore traditional Sherpa villages and Buddhist monasteries
  • 03 Experience breathtaking high-altitude landscapes in the Khumbu region
  • 04 Trek through the renowned Sagarmatha National Park
  • 05 Reach Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar for panoramic Himalayan views

Experience the Everest Base Camp Trek on a 12-day journey through the Khumbu region to the world's highest peak, Mt. Everest. Trek through breathtaking high-altitude landscapes, explore traditional Sherpa villages, visit the serene Tyangboche Monastery, and pass through the remarkable Sagarmatha National Park. Reach the iconic Everest Base Camp and continue to Kala Patthar for stunning views of Mt. Everest, Ama Dablam, Pumori, and the surrounding Himalayan giants, all while traversing the dramatic Khumbu Glacier.

Early in the morning, you will be taken to explore the dramatic views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and more towering from Kala Patthar (5,554 m).

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 12 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Hard
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Kathmandu, Everest Base Camp-South, Lukla, Dingboche, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Phakding, Lobuche, Kala Patthar, Gorakshep, Sagarmatha National Park, Pheriche
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Fly to Lukla and Trek to Phakding

  • We will take you to Kathmandu Domestic Airport for your early morning flight to Lukla from Kathmandu, with a packed breakfast, or you may have breakfast in Lukla before beginning the 4-hour trek to Phakding (2,652 m), where you will stay in a teahouse or lodge on a full-board basis.
  • During peak seasons (March-April and September-November), flights operate from Manthali to Lukla and from Lukla to Manthali due to high air traffic at Kathmandu Airport.
  • The luggage allowance for most mountain airports is 10 kg for main luggage and 5 kg for hand carry. Excess baggage charges apply for luggage exceeding this limit.
2
Day 02

Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar

  • After breakfast at the same teahouse or lodge, your trek begins from Phakding toward Namche Bazaar (3,440 m). The walk takes about 5-6 hours through colorful Khumbu villages, where you will stay in a teahouse or lodge on a full-board basis.
3
Day 03

Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar

  • Today is a rest day for acclimatization, but you may hike to the famous Everest View Hotel (3,800 m), which takes about 3 hours, to catch a glimpse of Mt. Everest and then return to Namche. You may also visit the Hillary and Sherpa Museum. You will stay at the same teahouse or lodge on a full-board basis.
4
Day 04

Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tyangboche

  • Today you will trek for about 5-6 hours from Namche Bazaar to Tyangboche (3,850 m). You will visit the significant Buddhist monastery and stay in a teahouse or lodge on a full-board basis.
5
Day 05

Trek from Tyangboche to Dingboche

  • From Tyangboche, you begin your trek to Dingboche (4,350 m), which takes about 4-5 hours. Along the way, you can catch glimpses of Lhotse and Ama Dablam. You will stay in a teahouse or lodge on a full-board basis.
6
Day 06

Acclimatization Day in Dingboche

  • Today in Dingboche, we have another acclimatization day, and there are some breathtaking views of the north face of Ama Dablam and the Lhotse-Nuptse ridge as we explore this beautiful valley that leads up to Island Peak.
  • The hike is short, with a good chance to relax in the afternoon, and we can also do some side day trips to help with the acclimatization process.
7
Day 07

Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche

  • After breakfast, you begin your trek from Dingboche toward Lobuche (5,018 m). Lunch will be taken on the way, and the trek takes about 4-5 hours. You will stay in a teahouse or lodge on a full-board basis.
8
Day 08

Trek to Everest Base Camp and Return to Gorakshep

  • Today's trek begins from Lobuche after breakfast. You will have lunch at Gorakshep, check in to your lodge or teahouse, and then trek up to Everest Base Camp (5,200 m) before returning for overnight accommodation on a full-board basis at a teahouse or lodge in Gorakshep (5,170 m). The total trekking time is about 6 hours.
9
Day 09

Explore Kala Patthar and Descend to Pheriche

  • Early in the morning, you will be taken to explore the dramatic views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and more towering from Kala Patthar (5,554 m). After breakfast, you will descend from Gorakshep to Pheriche (4,280 m) via Lobuche (5,218 m), where you will stay in a teahouse or lodge on a full-board basis.
10
Day 10

Descend from Pheriche to Namche Bazaar

  • From Pheriche, you descend to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) on a 7-8 hour downhill trek, where you will stay in a teahouse or lodge on a full-board basis.
11
Day 11

Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla

  • Today is your last trekking day, with a 7-hour trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,840 m), where you will stay in a teahouse or lodge on a full-board basis, passing through Sagarmatha National Park at Monjo.
12
Day 12

Fly Back to Kathmandu or Manthali

  • Today you fly from Lukla to Kathmandu or Manthali in about 35 minutes, and we transfer you to your confirmed hotel accommodation.
Kala Patthar, Everest Base Camp, Sagarmatha National Park, Khumbu Glacier

Where this trip takes you

Kala Patthar, Everest Base Camp, Sagarmatha National Park, Khumbu Glacier

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Lukla 12 cities · 12 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Pickup and drop-off to and from the international airport by private vehicle
  • Round-trip airfare from Kathmandu/Manthali to Lukla and Lukla to Manthali/Kathmandu (baggage allowance: 10 kg + 5 kg)
  • Shared vehicle transportation from Kathmandu to Manthali and Manthali to Kathmandu
  • Three meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
  • Clean teahouse or lodge accommodation during the trek
  • Government-licensed English-speaking guide, including food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment, medicine, and transportation
  • Sagarmatha National Park permit fees
  • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality local fees
  • Trekking map and trip achievement certificate
  • Travel and rescue arrangements
  • First aid kit

What's Not Included

  • All meals and accommodation in Kathmandu
  • Supporting staff (2 trekkers - 1 supporting staff with a maximum load of 25 kg)
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, sweets, snacks, tips, etc.
  • All beverages and bar bills
  • Travel insurance (essential - should include emergency evacuation coverage while trekking up to 5,545 meters)
  • Personal trekking equipment except as stated above
  • Donations
  • Entrance fees while doing sightseeing around Kathmandu
  • Supporting staff accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment, medicine, and transportation
  • Insurance for guide and porter
  • Any loss arising due to unforeseen circumstances beyond our control
  • Tips for guide and supporting staff (highly expected)

What to bring

The following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek. It is important that you do not forget the essential items, as this will determine your comfort and safety on the trek. Equally important is that you do not burden yourself with unnecessary equipment on the trek.

General

  • All-season sleeping bag and down jacket (we can provide these if you need them, but they must be returned after the trek)
  • Duffle bag (Sherpa Expedition & Trekking provides a duffle bag during the trek, but it must be returned after the trek)
  • A windproof and waterproof thin-layered jacket (a must-have for mornings and evenings above 3,000 m)
  • Daypack

Upper Body - Head / Ears / Eyewear

  • A pair of half gloves
  • A warm hat that covers the ears
  • Sunglasses
  • Neck warmer
  • Sunscreen (35 to 60 SPF)
  • Headlamp and an extra set of batteries

Hands

  • A pair of half gloves for walking poles (if you prefer)
  • Warm shell gloves and liners

Upper Body

  • Long-sleeve T-shirts
  • Thermal tops
  • Wool jacket or pullover
  • Sports bras for women and girls
  • Waterproof and windproof shell jacket

Lower Body

  • Thermal underwear (especially trousers)
  • Windproof and waterproof trousers
  • Warm trousers
  • Comfortable trekking pants
  • Extra casual sports pants

Footwear

  • A pair of good waterproof trekking boots
  • A pair of sandals
  • 4-5 pairs of woolen socks
  • Sock liners
  • Light shoes and sneakers
  • First aid kits and medicines
  • Assorted adhesive bandages (fabric preferred)
  • Blister treatment cream or similar
  • Insect / anti-itch ointment
  • Ibuprofen or other pain-relief medication
  • Diamox (125 mg to 250 mg tablets for altitude sickness)
  • Wraps, splints, and wound coverings, including butterfly bandages
  • Water-purifying pills

Note: Our company guide will carry medicines and first aid kits during the trek. However, we recommend that you bring your personal first-aid kit as well.

Miscellaneous - useful items for the trek

  • 2 passport-size photos with your original passport
  • Water bottle and filter
  • Flight details (please make a copy and leave one copy at our office in KTM in case you want to change your flight date)
  • Bathroom kit (should include toilet paper, plastic bags, hand wipes, towel, soap, etc.)

Extra things

  • Comfortable trekking poles
  • Quality energy dry foods (up to you)
  • Power bank and music players
  • Camera (memory card, chargers, and extra batteries)

Know before you go

Best Time for Trekking to Everest Base Camp

When planning a hike to Everest Base Camp, it is essential to consider the time of year to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. At Sherpa Expedition and Trekking, we recommend reserving your excursion for the spring and autumn seasons, which offer the most favorable conditions for trekking.

Spring Season (March to May)

The spring season is an ideal time for trekking to Everest Base Camp, characterized by mild weather conditions. The temperatures are pleasant, making it perfect for hiking. The trails are adorned with blooming flowers, and the pathways are lined with vibrant petals and leaves, creating picturesque scenery. This season offers a comfortable trekking experience, making it an excellent choice for hikers.

Autumn Season (September to November)

Autumn is the second-best season for trekking to Everest Base Camp, marked by vibrant clouds and a refreshing atmosphere. The weather is generally clear, providing breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Additionally, if you plan your trip in October, you can experience the renowned Mani Rimdu festival, a 19-day celebration by the Buddhist community.

Avoiding the Summer (Monsoon) Season

We generally advise against trekking to Everest Base Camp during the summer season, which coincides with the monsoon period. Heavy rainfall and unpredictable weather conditions can make the trek challenging and potentially hazardous. However, if your travel plans to Nepal are scheduled during the summer, we at Sherpa Expedition and Trekking can assist you in planning a suitable Himalayan trip to Everest Base Camp, taking into account the weather conditions and ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

By choosing the right season for your Everest Base Camp trek, you can ensure a memorable and safe adventure.

Understanding Lukla Flight Operations for Everest Base Camp Trek

When planning a trek to Everest Base Camp, it is essential to be aware of the domestic flight operations to Lukla, which are influenced by seasonal factors. To avoid confusion, we would like to clarify the following:

Peak Season Flight Operations (March, April, May, October, and November)

During peak months, Lukla flights will be diverted from Kathmandu to Ramechhap/Manthali due to increased air traffic. This diversion is necessary to alleviate congestion at Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport. As a result, trekkers will need to take a 4-5 hour drive from Kathmandu to Manthali Airport in the Ramechhap district before boarding the Lukla flight.

Non-Peak Season Flight Operations

During non-peak months, flights will operate as usual from Kathmandu to Lukla.

Factors Affecting Lukla Flight Operations

It is crucial to note that the unpredictability of Lukla flights is not solely due to air traffic. Other factors, such as weather conditions, natural calamities, and airport congestion, can also cause delays or cancellations. The Aviation Authority of Nepal and airlines make decisions regarding flight operations, taking these factors into account to ensure safe and efficient travel. By understanding these factors, trekkers can better prepare for their journey to Everest Base Camp and plan accordingly.

How challenging is the Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek?

Conquering the Everest Base Camp Trek: Preparation and Essentials

The Everest Base Camp Trek, spanning approximately 130 km, is a challenging yet rewarding hiking destination that demands careful preparation and attention to detail.

Trekking Demands

This high-altitude trek, reaching elevations of up to 5,500 m, requires a significant amount of physical effort, with daily walking times of 5-6 hours. The unpaved roads and high altitude can cause breathing and walking difficulties, even for experienced hikers.

Acclimatization and Altitude Sickness

Every year, many trekkers are unable to reach the Base Camp due to altitude sickness, highlighting the importance of proper acclimatization throughout the itinerary.

Pre-Trek Preparation for Beginners

To prepare for this demanding trek, beginners can incorporate the following practices into their daily routine:

  • Regular walking
  • Staying hydrated
  • Meditation and yoga
  • Nutritional diets
  • Jogging
  • Gym workouts

Essential Gear and Clothing

To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable hike, it is crucial to pack:

  • Warm clothing
  • Comfortable boots
  • Raincoats or umbrellas, due to the Himalayan region's frequent drizzle

Guided Support

During the trek, our experienced guides will provide direction and support, while porters will assist with carrying gear, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable journey. By prioritizing preparation, acclimatization, and proper gear, you can overcome the challenges of the Everest Base Camp Trek and experience the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), International Terminal, Kathmandu, Nepal
Tour start
Lukla, Chaurikharka 56000, Nepal
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 12 days finish where they began, in Lukla.

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