Lopchan Treks · Trip notes
Everest Base Camp Trek
Twelve days from Lukla through Sherpa villages, monasteries and glacier moraine to the foot of the world's highest mountain, with a sunrise climb of Kala Patthar.
- Duration
- 12 days
- High point
- Kala Patthar, 5,545 m / 18,192 ft
- Grade
- Challenging (high altitude, no technical climbing)
- Best months
- Mar, Apr, May, Oct, Nov
- Start / end
- Lukla (flight from Kathmandu or Ramechhap) / Lukla
- Stay
- Teahouse lodges, twin-share rooms
- Group size
- Ask us
- Price
- On request
Route
Altitude
Itinerary
| Day | Route | Elevation |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fly to Lukla, trek to Phakding | 2,610 m |
| 2 | Trek to Namche Bazaar | 3,440 m |
| 3 | Acclimatisation day in Namche Short hike up and back down to help your body adapt. | 3,440 m |
| 4 | Trek to Tengboche | 3,860 m |
| 5 | Trek to Dingboche | 4,410 m |
| 6 | Acclimatisation day in Dingboche | 4,410 m |
| 7 | Trek to Lobuche | 4,940 m |
| 8 | Trek to Gorak Shep, visit Everest Base Camp Sleep at Gorak Shep. | 5,364 m |
| 9 | Sunrise on Kala Patthar, descend to Pheriche Sleep at Pheriche. | 5,545 m |
| 10 | Trek to Namche Bazaar | 3,440 m |
| 11 | Trek to Lukla | 2,860 m |
| 12 | Fly back to Kathmandu | – |
Included
- Licensed trekking guide
- Teahouse accommodation on the trek
- National park and municipality permits
Not included
- International flights and Nepal visa
- Travel insurance with helicopter evacuation cover
- Tips for guides and porters
Is it for me?
- No climbing skills needed, but this is a long, high trek with several nights above 4,000 m.
- The climb from the Dudh Koshi river up to Namche Bazaar is the first big test; take it slowly.
- Train with hill walks or stair sessions two or three times a week for eight to ten weeks before you go.
- Two rest days at altitude are built in. Even so, anyone can get altitude sickness, so read our safety approach before you go.
Permits
- Sagarmatha National Park entry permit: On request
- Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality entry fee: On request
- Licensed guide requirement: Not applied in the Khumbu as of February 2025 (see guide rules explainer)
Spending on the trail
- Hot shower: On request
- Wi-Fi: On request
- Phone or battery charging: On request
- Boiled or filtered water (1 litre): On request
- Dal bhat (set meal): On request
Questions
How hard is the Everest Base Camp trek?
It needs no climbing skills, but you walk most of each day Ask us and sleep above 4,000 m for several nights. Altitude, not distance, is the real challenge, which is why the itinerary includes two rest days for acclimatisation.
Do I need a guide?
Nepal's 2023 rule requires a licensed guide in national parks, but the Khumbu municipality, which covers the Everest region, refused to apply it, and the region was still exempt as of February 2025. Rules change, so we confirm the current position when you book. See our [guide rules explainer](/journal/do-i-need-a-guide-nepal/).
When is the best time to go?
Spring (March to May) and autumn (late September to November) bring the most stable weather and clearest views. See the month-by-month weather page for modelled day and night temperatures.
What if my Lukla flight is delayed or cancelled?
Weather often delays flights to and from Lukla, sometimes for a day or more. Build a spare day into your plans before your international flight home. See our Lukla delay policy for what we do and who pays for what.
Do flights go from Kathmandu or Ramechhap?
In peak seasons, Lukla flights now leave from Ramechhap, about 4–5 hours' drive from Kathmandu, under a civil aviation rule in effect since 25 September 2025. We arrange the transfer and plan the timing with you.
Will I get altitude sickness?
You might. Altitude sickness can start above about 2,500 m, and you spend several nights above 4,000 m on this trek. The two rest days help, and the most important rule is simple: if you feel unwell, don't go higher. Tell your guide straight away.
What permits do I need?
A Sagarmatha National Park entry permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality fee. Your guide arranges both. See the permits guide for current fees.
Is there Wi-Fi and phone charging?
Most teahouses offer Wi-Fi or local data cards and charging for a fee. Both get slower, pricier and less reliable the higher you go, so bring a power bank.
Can a beginner do it?
A fit beginner with good training can, but it's a big first trek. If you've never walked at altitude, consider Annapurna Base Camp first, or allow extra days.
What travel insurance do I need?
Insurance that covers trekking up to at least 6,000 m and helicopter evacuation. Check the altitude limit in the policy wording, not just the summary.
