The Everest Base Camp trek takes you into the Khumbu, the homeland of the Sherpa people, to the foot of the highest mountain on Earth. It is one of the most popular treks in Nepal, and with good planning it is achievable for most fit walkers with no climbing experience. This guide covers what the trek involves, when to go and how to prepare.
Where the trek goes
Almost every trek starts with a short mountain flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,860 m). From there the trail follows the Dudh Koshi river to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m), the trading hub of the region, then climbs past Tengboche Monastery to Dingboche, Lobuche and Gorak Shep. Everest Base Camp sits at about 5,364 m on the edge of the Khumbu Glacier. Most trekkers also climb Kala Patthar (5,545 m) the next morning, because Everest itself cannot be seen well from Base Camp.
How long does it take?
A standard itinerary takes 12 to 14 days from Lukla and back, including two acclimatisation days, usually at Namche Bazaar and Dingboche. Our 14-day Everest Base Camp trek builds in both rest days and ends with a buffer for Lukla flight delays. If you are short on time, an Everest helicopter tour reaches the region in a single morning.
Best time to trek to Everest Base Camp
- Autumn (late September to November): clear skies, stable weather and the busiest trails.
- Spring (March to May): warmer days, rhododendrons in bloom and the Everest climbing season at Base Camp.
- Winter (December to February): very cold nights but quiet trails and clear views.
- Monsoon (June to August): rain lower down, cloud and frequent flight delays. Not recommended.
How difficult is it?
There is no technical climbing, but you will walk 5 to 7 hours on most days, often uphill, and sleep above 4,000 m for several nights. The main challenge is altitude. Ascending slowly, drinking plenty of water and taking the acclimatisation days seriously are the best ways to avoid altitude sickness. Regular hiking or stair training in the months before you go makes a big difference.
Permits and paperwork
Trekkers need a Sagarmatha National Park entry permit and a local permit from the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality. Travel insurance that covers trekking to 5,500 m and helicopter evacuation is essential. When you book with us, we arrange the permits and domestic flights.
Accommodation and food
The route is lined with teahouse lodges offering simple twin rooms and a heated dining room. Menus range from dal bhat, the Nepali staple of rice, lentils and vegetables, to noodles, potatoes and pancakes. Rooms get colder and more basic as you climb, so a warm sleeping bag is worth bringing.
What to pack
- Broken-in trekking boots and comfortable socks
- A down jacket, fleece and waterproof shell
- A sleeping bag rated to about -10 °C
- Sun hat, warm hat, gloves and sunglasses
- Water bottles and purification tablets
- A basic first-aid kit and any personal medication
Beyond Base Camp
If you want quieter trails and turquoise lakes, the Gokyo Lakes trek is a superb alternative in the same region. For a first taste of mountaineering, Island Peak climbing combines the Everest trail with a guided ascent of a 6,189 m peak.
Questions about the trek? Our team in Kathmandu is happy to help you choose the right itinerary and dates.
