Everest Base Camp Trek

Upon arrival in Kathmandu at about 1,400m, you will be transferred to your hotel. After settling in there is time to explore the vibrant city with options to visit Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) or Durbar Square. In the evening there is usually a pre-trek briefing about the adventure ahead. This arrival day allows for rest and final preparation before the early morning flight to Lukla on Day 2.

Early in the morning take a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (approximately 2,800m), the gateway to the Everest region. After landing the trek begins with a gentle descent to Phakding, passing through small villages, terraced fields and along the Dudh Koshi River. The trek on this day typically takes about 3 to 4 hours covering around 8 km and sets the tone for the trail ahead.

Trek from Phakding through beautiful pine forests, crossing suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River and entering Sagarmatha National Park at Monjo. The trail then ascends steeply to Namche Bazaar, the largest Sherpa town in the region. This day involves about 6 to 7 hours of trekking over roughly 10 km and includes striking mountain and cultural scenery.

A vital acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar to help your body adjust to the altitude. Take a short hike to Syangboche Airport or the Everest View Hotel for stunning panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse and Ama Dablam. There is time to explore the Sherpa Museum and local markets while allowing proper rest and gradual acclimatization.

The trek continues on a relatively moderate trail offering spectacular Himalayan views. After crossing the Dudh Koshi River again there is a steep climb through rhododendron forests to reach Tengboche, home to the famous Tengboche Monastery. Expect about 5 to 6 hours of trekking covering around 9 km with cultural highlights at the monastery.

Depart Tengboche and descend through forests before crossing the Imja Khola then ascend gradually to Pangboche. The route continues toward Dingboche passing through villages such as Somare and Orsho. This stage takes about 6 to 7 hours and covers approximately 12 km as the landscape becomes more alpine.

A second acclimatization day in Dingboche to prepare for higher altitudes. Options include a hike to Nangkartshang Peak (5,083m) or exploring the Chhukung Valley. The day offers panoramic views of Makalu, Lhotse and other peaks and provides essential rest and acclimatization time.

The trail gradually ascends from Dingboche offering views of the Khumbu Glacier and surrounding peaks. You will pass through Dughla where a steep climb leads to a ridge with memorials for climbers, then continue to the small settlement of Lobuche. This segment takes about 5 to 6 hours and covers around 8 km.

One of the most challenging but rewarding days. Trek about 3 hours from Lobuche to Gorak Shep, the last stop before Everest Base Camp. After a short break proceed to Everest Base Camp to witness the Khumbu Icefall and surrounding glacial terrain. After time at Base Camp return to Gorak Shep for the night. Total trekking is around 7 to 8 hours covering approximately 15 km.

Before dawn hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m) for unparalleled sunrise views over Everest and surrounding peaks. After descending back to Gorak Shep continue down through Lobuche toward Pheriche. This long day involves about 8 to 9 hours of trekking covering around 16 km and includes dramatic high altitude vistas at sunrise.

Retrace steps descending from Pheriche toward Namche Bazaar. The terrain becomes easier with more oxygen and time to reflect on the journey. Expect about 6 to 7 hours of trekking covering approximately 15 km as you return toward lower altitudes and Sherpa villages.

Final day of trekking returning to Lukla where the trek began. The trail descends steeply at first and then becomes more level as you approach Lukla. This day usually takes about 6 to 7 hours and covers around 19 km. Arrive in Lukla to celebrate completion of the trek.

Take an early morning flight from Lukla back to Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax, shop for souvenirs or further explore Kathmandu's cultural heritage after the long trek.

Depending on your international flight schedule you may have time for last-minute sightseeing or shopping in Kathmandu. You will then be transferred to the airport for departure marking the end of the Everest Base Camp adventure.