Everest Base Camp Trek – 13 Days | HGI Nepal
Mount Everest and the Khumbu Himalaya on the Everest Base Camp Trek
13 Days Itinerary

Everest Base Camp Trek

Walk into the heart of the Khumbu Himalaya on the world's most famous trek. Follow Sherpa trails and suspension bridges through Namche Bazaar and Tengboche to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) and the Kala Patthar viewpoint (5,545 m) beneath Mount Everest.

13 DaysMax 5,545 mChallengingTeahouse Stay

Trip Facts

CountryNepal
Duration13 Days
DifficultyChallenging
ActivityTrekking / Hiking
Max. Altitude5,545 m / 18,192 ft
Best SeasonMar–May, Sep–Nov
AccommodationTeahouse & Hotel
MealsFull Board on Trek
Start / EndKathmandu

Everest Base Camp Overview & Highlights

The Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the most famous trekking adventures in the world. This 13-day journey begins and ends in Kathmandu and follows the Dudh Koshi valley into the Khumbu region, home to Mount Everest (8,849 m) and many of the highest mountains on Earth.

The route begins with a scenic flight to Lukla and passes through Sherpa villages, pine and rhododendron forests, suspension bridges and high mountain monasteries. Namche Bazaar, the main Sherpa trading town, and Tengboche Monastery are highlights along the way.

The itinerary includes two acclimatization days, at Namche Bazaar and Dingboche, to help your body adapt to the altitude. The trail then climbs through Lobuche to Gorak Shep, with views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse and Ama Dablam.

The trek reaches Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) and the Kala Patthar viewpoint (5,545 m), famous for its close views of Everest. The return follows the same valley back to Lukla for the flight to Kathmandu.

Trek Highlights

  • Reach Everest Base Camp (5,364 m)
  • Sunrise views of Everest from Kala Patthar (5,545 m)
  • Scenic mountain flight to Lukla
  • Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa capital of the Khumbu
  • Tengboche Monastery with views of Ama Dablam
  • Two acclimatization days for a safer ascent
  • Views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse and Ama Dablam
  • Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Everest Base Camp Detailed Itinerary

13-Day Short Itinerary

Day 1

Kathmandu → Lukla (Flight) → Phakding

Phakding · 2,610 m
Day 2

Phakding → Namche Bazaar

Namche Bazaar · 3,440 m
Day 3

Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar

Namche Bazaar · 3,440 m
Day 4

Namche Bazaar → Tengboche

Tengboche · 3,860 m
Day 5

Tengboche → Dingboche

Dingboche · 4,410 m
Day 6

Acclimatization Day in Dingboche

Dingboche · 4,410 m
Day 7

Dingboche → Lobuche

Lobuche · 4,940 m
Day 8

Lobuche → Gorak Shep → Everest Base Camp

Gorak Shep · 5,164 m
Day 9

Kala Patthar → Pheriche

Pheriche · 4,371 m
Day 10

Pheriche → Namche Bazaar

Namche Bazaar · 3,440 m
Day 11

Namche Bazaar → Lukla

Lukla · 2,860 m
Day 12

Lukla → Kathmandu (Flight)

Kathmandu · 1,400 m
Day 13

Reserve Day in Kathmandu

Kathmandu · 1,400 m

Detailed Itinerary

DAY 1

Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla and Trek to Phakding

Take a short scenic flight to Lukla with views of the Himalaya. Meet your crew and follow a gentle trail along the Dudh Koshi river to Phakding.

  • Max. altitudePhakding (2,610 m)
  • Duration35 min flight + 3–4 hrs trek
  • OvernightTeahouse
DAY 2

Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar

Cross several suspension bridges, enter Sagarmatha National Park and climb steadily to Namche Bazaar. On a clear day you may see your first views of Everest.

  • Max. altitudeNamche Bazaar (3,440 m)
  • Duration5–6 hrs trek
  • OvernightTeahouse
DAY 3

Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar

Spend the day acclimatizing and exploring Namche Bazaar. Take an optional hike to the Everest View Hotel or visit the local museum and market.

  • Max. altitudeNamche Bazaar (3,440 m)
  • OvernightTeahouse
DAY 4

Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche

Follow the trail above the Dudh Koshi valley through forest and mountain scenery, then climb to Tengboche, home to the largest monastery in the Khumbu with views of Ama Dablam.

  • Max. altitudeTengboche (3,860 m)
  • Duration5–6 hrs trek
  • OvernightTeahouse
DAY 5

Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche

Descend through rhododendron forest, cross the river and continue through Pangboche to the stone-walled fields of Dingboche in the Imja valley.

  • Max. altitudeDingboche (4,410 m)
  • Duration5–6 hrs trek
  • OvernightTeahouse
DAY 6

Acclimatization Day in Dingboche

Rest and acclimatize with an optional hike to Nagarjun Hill for views of Makalu, Lhotse and Ama Dablam before the higher section of the trek.

  • Max. altitudeDingboche (4,410 m)
  • OvernightTeahouse
DAY 7

Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche

Climb above the tree line, pass memorials at Thukla Pass and follow the Khumbu Glacier trail to Lobuche, surrounded by high peaks.

  • Max. altitudeLobuche (4,940 m)
  • Duration5–6 hrs trek
  • OvernightTeahouse
DAY 8

Trek to Gorak Shep and Everest Base Camp

Follow the glacier moraine to Gorak Shep, then continue to Everest Base Camp, with views of the Khumbu Icefall. Return to Gorak Shep for the night.

  • Max. altitudeEverest Base Camp (5,364 m)
  • Duration7–8 hrs trek
  • OvernightTeahouse
DAY 9

Hike to Kala Patthar and Trek to Pheriche

Rise early for the climb to Kala Patthar (5,545 m) for sunrise views of Everest, Nuptse and Pumori. Return to Gorak Shep for breakfast and descend to Pheriche.

  • Max. altitudeKala Patthar (5,545 m)
  • Duration7–8 hrs trek
  • OvernightTeahouse
DAY 10

Trek from Pheriche to Namche Bazaar

Descend through Pangboche and Tengboche and return to Namche Bazaar, enjoying easier walking and thicker air.

  • Max. altitudeNamche Bazaar (3,440 m)
  • Duration6–7 hrs trek
  • OvernightTeahouse
DAY 11

Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla

Follow the Dudh Koshi river back to Lukla, crossing suspension bridges and passing Sherpa villages. Celebrate the completion of the trek with your crew.

  • Max. altitudeLukla (2,860 m)
  • Duration6–7 hrs trek
  • OvernightTeahouse
DAY 12

Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu

Take the early morning flight to Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax or explore.

  • Max. altitudeKathmandu (1,400 m)
  • Duration35 min flight
  • OvernightHotel in Kathmandu
DAY 13

Reserve Day in Kathmandu

This day is kept in reserve in case flights to or from Lukla are delayed by weather. If not needed, explore Kathmandu or depart.

  • Max. altitudeKathmandu (1,400 m)
  • Trip endsDeparture or extension

Please note: The itinerary may change due to weather, flight schedules, health or other factors beyond our control. Flights to and from Lukla are often delayed by weather, and in busy seasons they may operate from Ramechhap airport. We recommend keeping one or two additional days available.

Everest Base Camp Trek Route Map

Everest Base Camp Trek map showing the route from Lukla through Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, Gorak Shep and Kala Patthar

Route: Kathmandu – Lukla – Phakding – Namche Bazaar – Tengboche – Dingboche – Lobuche – Gorak Shep – Everest Base Camp – Kala Patthar – Pheriche – Namche Bazaar – Lukla – Kathmandu.

Elevation Profile

The trek gains altitude gradually through Namche Bazaar, Tengboche and Dingboche, with two acclimatization days. Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) is reached on Day 8, and the highest point is Kala Patthar (5,545 m) on Day 9, before the descent to Lukla.

01,0002,0003,0004,0005,000 m2,6103,4403,4403,8604,4104,4104,9405,3643,4402,8601,4001,400Kala Patthar5,545 mD1PhakdingD2NamcheD3NamcheD4TengbocheD5DingbocheD6DingbocheD7LobucheD8EBCD9Kala PattharD10NamcheD11LuklaD12KathmanduD13Kathmandu
Highest Point5,545 mKala Patthar, Day 9
Everest Base Camp5,364 mDay 8
AcclimatizationDays 3 and 6Namche Bazaar and Dingboche

Highest altitude reached each day in metres, Day 1 to Day 13.

Trek Difficulty

The Everest Base Camp Trek is a challenging high-altitude trek. Expect 5–8 hours of walking on trekking days, long ascents, descents and cold conditions at higher elevations. The most demanding days are the climb to Gorak Shep and the early morning hike to Kala Patthar. Two acclimatization days are included. No technical climbing is required.

Physical Effort
Altitude
Technical Difficulty
Comfort Level

Scale 1 to 5. Ratings are guidance and depend on fitness and weather.

Best Season

Spring

March–May. Mild weather, blooming rhododendrons and good mountain views.

Autumn

September–November. Clear skies, excellent mountain views and favourable trekking conditions.

Summer

June–August. Monsoon rain and cloudy conditions affect views and flights.

Winter

December–February. Very cold conditions and possible snow, especially at higher camps.

Accommodation & Meals

Accommodation

  • Teahouse accommodation during the trek
  • Twin-sharing rooms with basic beds
  • Shared bathrooms in many locations
  • Hot showers may cost extra
  • Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu is not included unless specified

Meals

  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner during the trek
  • Dal bhat, noodles, soup, momos, eggs and porridge
  • Tea and coffee
  • Boiled or purified drinking water

Dietary Needs

Vegan

Vegan meals can be arranged at teahouses. Please inform us when booking.

Gluten Free

Gluten-free meal options may be available. Bring specialist products if required.

Packing List

General

  • Four-season sleeping bag
  • Sleeping bag liner
  • Down jacket
  • 30–40 L daypack

Head & Upper Body

  • Sun hat or cap
  • Warm beanie
  • Neck gaiter
  • Headlamp
  • Sunglasses

Torso

  • Thermal base layer
  • Trekking shirts
  • Fleece jacket
  • Waterproof shell

Lower Body

  • Thermal base layer
  • Trekking trousers
  • Comfortable trousers
  • Waterproof shell trousers

Hands & Feet

  • Liner and insulated gloves
  • Warm hiking socks
  • Waterproof trekking boots
  • Casual shoes or sandals

First Aid

  • Personal medication
  • Sunscreen and lip balm
  • Blister plasters
  • Throat lozenges

Essentials

  • Passport and photocopies
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Water purification tablets
  • Toiletries and towel
  • Trekking poles
  • Energy snacks

Optional

  • Power bank
  • Camera or phone
  • Book or cards
  • Binoculars
  • Windproof jacket

Safety & Altitude

This trek reaches 5,545 m at Kala Patthar, making altitude sickness a real risk. The itinerary includes acclimatization days in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche. Our guides monitor trekkers and adjust the pace according to conditions.

  • Ascend gradually and follow acclimatization advice
  • Stay hydrated throughout the trek
  • Report headache, nausea or dizziness immediately
  • Descend if symptoms worsen
  • Guides carry a first aid kit
  • Insurance must cover trekking to 6,000 m and helicopter evacuation

Everest Base Camp Cost & Inclusions

Included

Transportation

  • Kathmandu – Lukla (flight)
  • Lukla – Kathmandu (flight)
  • Airport transfers in Kathmandu

Meals & Accommodation

  • Full-board meals and accommodation during the trek
  • Tea and coffee
  • Drinking water as specified in package

Guide & Staff

  • Professional licensed trekking guide
  • Porter service
  • Guide and porter wages
  • Guide and porter insurance

Permits & Taxes

  • Sagarmatha National Park permit
  • Khumbu local area entry permit
  • Government and local taxes

Safety

  • First aid kit

Not Included

  • Hotels in Kathmandu
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance and emergency evacuation
  • International airfare
  • Extra nights due to delays
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Personal trekking gear
  • Hot showers and device charging
  • Additional snacks and beverages
  • Optional sightseeing
  • Medical and emergency expenses
  • Nepal entry visa fees

Trekking with Children

Children under 10 may qualify for exemption from certain park or local entry fees, subject to applicable regulations. The Everest Base Camp Trek is strenuous and reaches 5,545 m. Please inform us about your child’s age and trekking experience before booking.

Booking Cancellation & Refund Policy

Within 7 Days

Cancel within 7 days of booking and receive a 25% refund.

After 7 Days

Cancellations after 7 days are not refundable.

Last-Minute

Last-minute cancellations are not refundable.

Full payment: If you have paid the full amount, you receive 25% of the total payment back when cancelling within the refund window.

Why Trek with HGI Nepal

Licensed Local Guides

Experienced, first-aid-trained and English-speaking guides.

Clear Pricing

Permits, transport, meals and staff costs are explained upfront.

Safety First

Flexible pacing and emergency evacuation coordination.

Fair Staff Treatment

Fair wages and insurance for guides and porters.

Private Treks

Private and small-group departures available.

Local Support

Our Kathmandu team is available before and during your trip.

Customer Reviews

See what trekkers say about HGI Nepal on Google.

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Montse Morón
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HGI organise our trip to Tibet from Nepal. They arranged all permits and everything to get all facilities in our tour. It was a great experience and we enjoyed it a lot. We recommend their services, they are very professional and caring! Thanks Jeevan
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Matt
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I hiked the everest base camp trek with Laxmi, not only was the journey an amazing experience but the kindness and professionalism shown was outstanding. His knowledge and experience truly made the trek more enjoyable and his skill in nepali card games posed quite a challenge for me. Highly recommend
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Campbell Clan
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The crew at HGI are exceptional. Really careful planning and communication. Everything is explained, the guides are experienced and totally trustworthy. The trek was awesome, and the friendly attention to detail meant everything went smoothly. If you want a personalised trip, where friends are made, make a great decision and go with HGI.
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Pavel Čadek
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Good guide and fast solution in case of emergency!
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Liam Perkins
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We had an amazing experience on our trek organised by HGI. They were extremely professional and took care of everything from the start. The stand out of the whole trip was definitely our Guide Laxmi and assistant guide Aasish. Laxmi was extremely good at his job, he always made sure we were comfortable and safe. He was extremely knoweldgable and shared his knowledge of the environment and different cultures we encountered along the way.
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Mark Walker
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Our group went around Manaslu with Laxmi and Aasish and couldn't be happier with the service provided by HGI. Laxmi was very professional, knowledgeable and very skilled at card games. The team at HGI really went above and beyond our expectations at every point in the trip. Thank you.
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Josep (Nepal)
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One of the most experienced Trekking Companies in Nepal working since the 80's Staff are the best,friendly and they know what has to be done while in mountains. If you are looking for serious people they are the best option for your Hiking routes in Nepal.
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Everest Base Camp FAQs

General

How many days does the Everest Base Camp trek take?

The itinerary takes 13 days from Kathmandu to Kathmandu, including flights to and from Lukla, two acclimatization days and a reserve day.

How high is Everest Base Camp?

Everest Base Camp is at 5,364 metres (17,598 feet). The Kala Patthar viewpoint reaches 5,545 metres (18,192 feet), the highest point of the trek.

Do I need a guide or porter?

We recommend trekking with a licensed guide and can arrange porter services. Current permit and guide requirements should be confirmed before departure.

Difficulty & Fitness

Do I need prior trekking experience?

Previous trekking experience is helpful but not essential. Good fitness and preparation are important for the long walking days and high altitude.

How difficult is the Everest Base Camp trek?

The trek is challenging due to altitude, cold weather and long walking days. It does not require technical climbing.

Weather & Best Season

What is the best time to trek?

Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are generally the best seasons for stable conditions and mountain views.

Arrival & Visa

Do I need a visa to enter Nepal?

Many nationalities can obtain a tourist visa on arrival, subject to current Nepal immigration rules and eligibility.

Cost & Permits

How much does the trek cost?

The price depends on group size, travel dates and selected services. Contact HGI Nepal for a personalised quotation.

What permits are required?

A Sagarmatha National Park permit and a Khumbu local area permit are required, and current regulations should be confirmed before departure.

Accommodation & Food

What accommodation is available?

Teahouses are used during the trek, with hotel accommodation in Kathmandu according to the package arrangement.

What food is available?

Common meals include dal bhat, noodles, soup, momos, eggs, porridge and some Western dishes.

Is Wi-Fi and electricity available?

Many teahouses offer charging and Wi-Fi for additional fees, although services may be limited at higher elevations.

Health & Safety

What is the risk of altitude sickness?

Altitude sickness is a real risk above 3,000 metres. Follow acclimatization guidance and report symptoms to your guide immediately.

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes. Your policy should cover trekking to at least 6,000 metres and emergency helicopter evacuation.

What if flights to Lukla are delayed?

Flights depend on weather. Your guide and our Kathmandu team will adjust the schedule, so keeping spare days is recommended.

How to Book

  1. Fill in the Booking Form

    Submit your preferred dates, group size and travel details.

  2. We Get in Touch

    Our team will discuss your trip and answer your questions.

  3. Confirm and Pay the Deposit

    Once the itinerary and price are confirmed, pay the deposit to secure your trip.

  4. Pre-Trip Briefing

    Meet your guide in Kathmandu and review the plan and equipment.