Every year starting from March to May, in the spring, climbers from around the world pass through this route with a common dream of making it up to the summit of mighty Everest. The Sherpa, native inhabitants of the region worship the mountain and risk their lives to clear the route up to the top of Everest before the climbing season starts. This is because the notorious Khumbu ice fall is a moving icefall in itself and keeps changing the landscape every season posing threats to the climber.
However, not to confuse with the actual Everest summit, Everest base camp trek is fairly easy trek that does not require any mountaineering skills at all. Everest base camp trek in Nepal is one of highest achievement every ambitious person in the planet would wish to attain. While being the most prominent and popular tourist destination that Nepal has to offer, Everest Base Camp trek is also one of the most common meeting ground for independent travelers from all around the world.
This 12-16 days trek starts from Lukla, where you can arrive by plane. Upon reaching Lukla trekkers head to Phakding, Namche bazar, tengboche, dingboche, lobuche, gorak shep and finally Everest base camp. Trekkers can ascend further up to Kalapathar at an altitude of 5555 meter for a spectacular view of Mt. Everest. This teahouse trek, offers you an astounding view of khumbu valley and surrounding Sagarmatha National Park. You can also explore the inexplicable culture, tradition and historical relics of the native Sherpa, unbreachingly tied to the mountains and monasteries. Everest base camp trek also offers a promising view of Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Cho Oyu and Mt. Makalu all ranging above the height of 8200 meters. Throughout the trek, you will be walking at an average of 5 hours a day.
The trek might cost travelers from anywhere around 1000 USD to 2000 USD depending upon your itinerary and amenities it includes. You also need to obtain a permit which becomes lot easier if you book your trek from an agency. It is recommended, however not necessary, that trekker have prior experience of hiking in high altitude since the EBC trek requires days of walking in one of the most dramatic landscape of the world.
Similarly, acclimation can always be an issue due to changing elevation and high altitude. In this sense, it is very crucial for trekkers to have a valid travel insurance while trekking in Nepal since helicopter rescues in such landscapes can be ridiculously expensive. A 30 days EBC trek insurance might cost trekkers anywhere around 100-200 USD. So, we highly recommend you to check with your tour operators, whether they offer travel insurance before you book your trek.
Average Walk: 5 hours a day
Best Season: February – March & September – December
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation: 2860 – 5365 meters
Duration: 12 – 16 days
Cost: $1000 – $2000
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