Everest Base Camp Trek

Detail Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu and trip preparation – 1,300m/4,264 ft.
Upon your arrival at Kathmandu International Airport, our representative will warmly greet you and arrange your transfer to the hotel. In the evening, Crystal Himalaya Travel & Trek will host a special welcome dinner at a local restaurant, setting the tone for your upcoming adventure.

Day 02: Kathmandu: Sightseeing and Trek Preparation.

After breakfast, you will be escorted to the domestic terminal of Kathmandu Airport for an early morning flight to Lukla (2,800m/9,186ft), the gateway to our trek. This 40-minute scenic flight offers breathtaking views of verdant landscapes and towering snow-capped peaks, culminating in an exhilarating landing at the Tenzing-Hillary Airport, one of the world’s most picturesque and thrilling air routes.

Upon arrival in Lukla, we will meet the rest of our trekking team, finalize packing, and prepare for the journey ahead. From Lukla, we’ll begin our trek, passing through the bustling village and following a scenic trail to Phakding. The day concludes with an overnight stay in Phakding.

Day 04: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3440 m/11,280 ft): 6 – 7 hrs walk

Our trek begins with a scenic journey through a serene pine forest, following the Dudh Koshi River and crossing several suspension bridges, including the iconic Hillary Suspension Bridge. Early on, we are greeted by stunning views of Mt. Thamserku (6,618m). Passing through the charming villages of Benkar, Chumoa, and Monjo, we arrive at the checkpoint and entrance to Sagarmatha National Park.

Continuing past Jorsale, the trail ascends through dense forests and over bridges, leading to the confluence of the Dudh Koshi and Bhote Koshi rivers. From here, a challenging two-hour climb rewards us with our first glimpse of Mt. Everest, rising above the Lhotse-Nuptse ridge. We take a moment to pause at Chautara and soak in this awe-inspiring view.

The journey to Namche Bazaar, the gateway to Mt. Everest and the region’s main trading hub, requires about 1.5 more hours of trekking. Upon arrival, we settle in for the night in Namche Bazaar, ready to explore this vibrant mountain town.

Day 05 : Namche Bazaar Rest and acclimatization day.

Today is set aside as an acclimatization day to help your body adjust to the altitude. Experts recommend staying active and engaged, even on rest days, to aid the acclimatization process. You can choose from several activities, such as a day hike to Thame, a visit to the village of Khunde, a trek up to the Everest View Hotel for stunning vistas, or simply relaxing and exploring Namche Bazaar.

Namche Bazaar, the central hub of the Everest (Khumbu) region, is a vibrant town with government offices, ATMs, internet cafes, shops, restaurants, bakeries, and a bustling market held every Friday evening and Saturday.

While in Namche, consider visiting the Tourist Visitor Center near the Sagarmatha National Park headquarters. Here, you can explore exhibits about the first Everest expeditions, Sherpa culture, and the region’s unique flora and fauna. This day not only helps with acclimatization but also allows you to immerse yourself in the cultural and natural heritage of the area. The night will be spent in Namche Bazaar.

Day 06: Namche Bazzar to Tengboche (3,870m/12,694ft) – 5 – 6 hrs walk

After breakfast in Namche Bazaar, we embark on a trek to Tengboche, accompanied by spectacular views of Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. The trail offers a mix of gentle ascents and descents, highlighting the stunning Himalayan landscape. Along the way, you may encounter wildlife such as pheasants, musk deer, and Himalayan Thar.

Passing through Kayangjuma and Sansa, an important trail junction, the route continues through lush pine forests before crossing a prayer flag-adorned bridge at Phunki Thenga. After a relaxed lunch here, a steady ascent through pine woods brings us to Tengboche. This village is celebrated for its panoramic mountain views and its iconic Buddhist monastery, the largest in the Khumbu region.

At around 3 p.m., you’ll have the opportunity to visit the monastery and witness a spiritual ceremony, adding a meaningful cultural experience to your journey. Tengboche’s serene surroundings and breathtaking scenery, framed by towering peaks, make this leg of the trek unforgettable. The overnight stay in a lodge at Tengboche provides a peaceful retreat in the heart of the Himalayas.

Day 07: Tengboche to Dingboche (4,360 m/14,300 ft): 5 – 6 hrs walk

After breakfast, take the upper trail towards Pangboche village for even more stunning views. Along the way, pass through Chortens, Mani walls, and small villages, soaking in the beauty of the journey. The lunch spot offers not only a delicious meal but also an incredible close-up view of Mt. Ama Dablam.

In the afternoon, you can either head north to Pheriche or follow the eastern trail beneath the towering north face of Mt. Ama Dablam. The trail becomes moderately easier as you enter the Imja Valley, which gradually opens up as you near the confluence of the Lobuche River. After descending to the river, prepare for the final steep climb of the day up to Dingboche.

When you arrive in Dingboche, you’ll be greeted by a picturesque landscape of fields surrounded by stone walls, which protect crops and grazing animals from the harsh elements. The night will be spent in Dingboche, offering a tranquil rest after a day of exploration.

Day 08: Dingboche to Lobuche (4940 m/16,207 ft): 5-6 hrs walk.

After breakfast, the trek begins with a climb to Duglha, following the Khumbu Khola valley and offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Along the way, you’ll pass through Phulung Karpo, the campsite of the 1953 Everest Expedition, and Chola Lake, before Mt. Pumori (7,138m/23,418ft) comes into view. The trail then descends to a stream, crosses a wooden bridge, and ascends to Duglha, where you’ll be treated to views of Mt. Nuptse, Cholatse, and Thamserku. After lunch at Duglha, the trek continues with a steep climb up the terminal moraine of the Khumbu Glacier.

As you ascend to Chupki Lhara, a ridge adorned with memorials to Scott Fischer and Babu Chiri Sherpa, you’ll be rewarded with dramatic mountain vistas. Descending to the Khumbu Glacier moraine, you’ll encounter impressive peaks such as Khumbutse, Lingtren, Pumori, and Mahalangur Himal. While you’re in the vicinity of Everest, the summit remains out of sight. Crossing the glacier and passing a stream, you’ll begin to feel the effects of the high altitude.

The day concludes with an overnight stay at Lobuche, marking a challenging yet rewarding day filled with memorials, steep climbs, and awe-inspiring views of the Everest region’s towering peaks.

Day 09: Lobuche to Gorak Shep [5170 m] 3 hrs, to Everest Base Camp [5364 m], 3 hrs to Gorak Shep, 3 hrs. Total 8 – 9 hrs walk

Early in the morning, we begin our trek to Gorak Shep, Everest Base Camp, and return to Gorak Shep. The trail takes us along the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier, passing the pyramid signpost. As we progress, stunning views of Everest’s north ridge, Mt. Pumori, Mt. Mahalangur, Mt. Lingtren, Mt. Khumbutse, and Mt. Nuptse unfold before us. After a steep climb through the Changri Glacier, the green knoll of Kala Patthar beneath Mt. Pumori comes into view.

Upon reaching Gorak Shep, surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks, including the majestic Mt. Everest, we’ll take a brief lunch break. From there, we’ll continue to Everest Base Camp, passing the now-dried Gorak Shep Lake. At Base Camp, the vibrant tents of mountaineers stand out against the otherwise gray surroundings, providing a striking view of the Khumbu Icefall route. While Everest may be obscured from this vantage point, the view of nearby peaks like Nuptse, Khumbutse, and Pumori is breathtaking.

For an even more captivating experience, we recommend visiting Kala Patthar at sunset, where the sun’s rays cast a stunning glow over the landscape. The day concludes with an overnight stay at a local lodge in GorakShep.

Day 10: Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar to Pheriche [4280 m/14,070 ft]: 8 – 9 hrs walk

Today is the pinnacle of our trek, as we set off early to witness the awe-inspiring views from Kala Patthar, where the first rays of sunlight bathe Mount Everest in golden light. Braving the pre-dawn chill (-10 to -14°C), the climb offers remarkable photo opportunities as you ascend toward one of the best viewpoints in the region. After hours of climbing, you’ll reach the summit, adorned with cairns and prayer flags, where the panoramic Himalayan vistas unfold before you.

Sitting atop Kala Patthar, you can take in the breathtaking sight of Everest and its surrounding peaks, feeling the immensity of the landscape around you. With this moment captured in your mind and your camera, you’ll soak in the majesty of the Himalayas.

Upon returning to Gorak Shep, a well-deserved breakfast awaits, giving you time to rest while awaiting the return of fellow trekkers. For those heading to Everest Base Camp today, an early breakfast is crucial, as the trek lasts around 4-5 hours.

Once everyone has gathered back in Gorak Shep, the group will enjoy lunch before descending to Pheriche for a restful evening. This day encapsulates the triumph and awe of experiencing the Everest region in its full splendor.

Day 11: Pheriche to Tengboche to Namche Bazzar (3,440 m/11,280 ft): 5 – 6 hrs walk

Today’s trek takes us through hillsides adorned with vibrant rhododendron and juniper trees, creating a stunning landscape, especially in spring when the pink and red rhododendron flowers bloom. Depending on your pace and hunger, lunch will either be at Pangboche or postponed until reaching Phunki Tenga. As we cross the prayer flag-draped bridge over the Dudh Koshi River, the trail quickly descends through pine forests, leading to Sansa, a key trail junction.

At Kyangjuma (3,570 m/11,710 ft), we’ll stop for a relaxing lunch while enjoying panoramic views of Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Nuptse. After lunch, the trail continues downhill toward Namche Bazaar, following a steep, wooded slope. Watch for wildlife such as mountain goats, snow leopards, and colorful pheasants along the way.

Passing a Chorten, we’ll arrive at the army camp at Namche Bazaar, where you can enjoy a final view of Lhotse, the tip of Everest, and Tengboche before descending. Once at the lodge, enjoy a well-deserved hot shower and a restful night’s sleep in Namche Bazaar. This day blends beautiful nature, wildlife encounters, and the gradual return to the comforts of civilization.

Day 12: Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,800m/9,186ft): 7 – 8 hrs walk

The descent today takes us steeply downward, requiring a slow and controlled pace as we navigate the rocky terrain. After crossing suspension bridges over the fast-flowing Dudh Koshi and its tributaries, the trail levels out, offering a more natural and smooth path. The light breeze gradually warms us up, helping to alleviate any lingering sore throats or cold symptoms, while the refreshing mountain air rejuvenates us.

Though we are retracing our steps, the descent offers a completely different perspective, with sweeping views of open plains, rhododendron and pine forests, and distant snow-capped peaks.

As we pass through Sherpa villages, we witness the community’s deep-rooted Buddhist faith, seen in the prayer stones and flags that adorn the villages. Upon reaching Lukla, we take time to stretch our sore legs and reflect on the incredible experiences of the past days. The trek ends on a high note, with everyone returning safe and happy, their faces reflecting the satisfaction of a memorable journey. The night spent in Lukla marks the conclusion of this unforgettable adventure.

Day 13: Lukla to Kathmandu by flight 30 min.

Today marks our return flight to Kathmandu, signaling the end of our extended mountain adventure. After an early morning flight, we arrive in Kathmandu, where you can relax and unwind at the hotel. If you’re interested in picking up souvenirs for friends and family, this is a great opportunity to explore nearby shops or visit Thamel for traditional Nepalese items.

In the evening, we’ll gather for a farewell dinner to celebrate the successful completion of our trek. It’s a time to reflect on the incredible journey, share stories, and enjoy a pleasant evening together. The night will be spent in Kathmandu, providing a peaceful and fitting conclusion to our trekking experience.

Day 14: Final departure to your home country

Today marks the conclusion of our incredible adventure in the mountains of Nepal! With no specific activities scheduled, you have the freedom to exchange contact information with fellow travelers, organize your photos, or, if time allows, do some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

About three hours before your scheduled flight, a representative from Crystal Himalaya Travel & Trek will accompany you to the airport. As you make your way home, you’ll have plenty of time to reflect on the unforgettable experiences and start planning your next adventure in the beautiful country of Nepal.

This marks the end of a rewarding and enriching mountain journey, leaving you with cherished memories and the excitement of future adventures.