Everest Base Camp Trek-12 Days

Accomodation
Hotel/Lodge/Tea House
Language
English
Transportation
Private/Public Vehicle
Arrival City
Kathmandu
Best Season
Spring and Autumn
Free Cancellation
30% Cancellation Charge (Personal Reason)
Guide
Guided Tour
Insurance Coverage
Covered
Maximum Altitude
5,545 m
Meals
BLD During Trek
Tour Availability
Available
Walking Hours
6-7 Hours Trek
Trip Type
Everest Region, Hiking in Nepal
Difficulty
Easy

Overview

Embarking on a trek to one of the world’s highest altitudes is both thrilling and adventurous, isn’t it? For those who crave adventure, the 12 Days Everest Base Camp Trek Package stands out as an ideal choice. This package is highly recommended due to its affordable price and well-structured itinerary.

The 12-day Everest Base Camp trek is a fantastic opportunity to turn your dream into reality. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced trekker, this journey offers something special for everyone. It invites you to embrace the unknown, challenging both beginners and veterans alike. Filled with excitement and surprises, this adventure promises unforgettable moments.

Starting from Lukla, you’ll prepare to navigate the breathtaking mountain trails ahead. With every step, you’ll be surrounded by the serene beauty of the Himalayas. Strolling past cascading hills, breathing in the crisp mountain air, and exchanging friendly greetings with local people will bring you closer to the majestic Mount Everest — the highest peak on Earth. This encounter will surely be a memory to treasure for a lifetime.

Everest, a symbol of strength and perseverance, inspires awe from a distance and admiration from those courageous enough to trek its challenging routes. Journeying to its base camp is a sacred adventure, packed with lifetime memories. Along the way, you’ll experience diverse landscapes—from lush forests and Sherpa villages to glacial moraines and endless foothills—making the trek truly breathtaking, often referred to as the stairway to paradise.

Everest Base Camp remains a magnet for thrill-seekers and bold travelers aiming to conquer the formidable Himalayas. Even after the devastating earthquake of 2015, the resilience of the Nepalese people never wavered, and countless adventurers continue to pursue their dream of reaching Everest’s base. Each year, about 30,000 determined trekkers embark on this journey, with numbers swelling to over 10,000 during peak season. Thanks to the popularity of this trail, it is well-maintained and equipped with excellent facilities rivaling other trekking routes in Nepal.

Trip Highlights

Magnificent Mountain Views: Enjoy a 360-degree perspective of multiple peaks, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam, during the 12-day Everest Base Camp Trek.
Kala Patthar: You will stand at the 5,555-meter-high Kala Patthar viewpoint of Everest Base Camp, a well-liked spot for breathtaking sweeping views of Mount Everest and the other peaks.
Tengboche Monastery: Tengboche Monastery is one of the Buddhist monasteries you will be able to visit during the 12-day Everest Base Camp trip.
Sherpa Culture: While you are on the trek, you will be passing over various Sherpa communities such Gorakhsep and others. These destinations provide an insight into Sherpa's unique culture, lifestyle, and traditions.
Sagarmatha National Park: Your 12 Days Everest Base Camp Trek goes through the Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is home to a variety of flora and animals, including endangered Himalayan species like the snow leopard and red panda.

Useful Info

Why Trek to Everest Base Camp?

Breathtaking Views: Stunning panoramas of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and more.
Cultural & Spiritual: Visit sacred monasteries like Tengboche and experience Sherpa culture.
Personal Achievement: Standing at 5,364m is a huge personal milestone.
Challenging Yet Accessible: Physically demanding but non-technical, suitable for ambitious beginners and experienced trekkers.
Historic Trail: Follow the path of Hillary and Tenzing from their 1953 Everest expedition.

Why Choose the 12-Day EBC Trek Itinerary?

Proper Acclimatization: Includes dedicated rest days at Namche Bazaar and Dingboche to prevent altitude sickness.
Balanced Pace: Moderate walking hours daily allow time to enjoy scenery without exhaustion.
Complete Experience: Covers all highlights—Sagarmatha National Park, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche Monastery, Kala Patthar, and Everest Base Camp itself.
Prevents Fatigue: Allows rest and recovery, making it beginner-friendly.
Time-Efficient: Ideal for those with limited vacation time, longer than rushed 7-8 day treks but shorter than 17+ day alternatives.
Weather Flexibility: Buffer days for flight delays at Lukla or weather changes.
Cost-Effective: Good value balancing price and experience.
Group-Friendly: Popular with trekking companies, facilitating group treks and social experiences.
Customizable: Options to add side trips or adjust rest days as needed.

Challenges of the 12-Day Trek

Altitude Risk: Maximum altitude above 5,500m requires careful acclimatization.
Physical Demand: Long hikes (4-8 hours) on uneven terrain.
Unpredictable Weather: Cold, snow, wind, and sudden changes.
Basic Facilities: Limited amenities beyond Namche Bazaar.
Remote Location: Limited access to emergency services, requiring good preparation.

Best Time to Trek Everest Base Camp

Spring (March–May): Moderate weather, blooming rhododendrons, clear skies, mountaineering activity.
Autumn (September–November): Stable weather, clear mountain views, cultural festivals.
Other seasons:
Winter: Cold, snowy, fewer crowds.
Monsoon: Rainy, muddy, fewer trekkers, lush greenery.

Essential Considerations Before the Trek

Fitness: Good endurance and strength needed.
Altitude Sickness Awareness: Know symptoms and take precautions.
Weather Preparedness: Pack for cold, snow, rain, and wind.
Gear: Trekking boots, warm clothes, sleeping bags, poles, crampons.
Permits: Sagarmatha National Park, Pasang Lhamu Municipality, and possibly others.
Support: Hiring guides and porters is recommended.
Accommodation: From hotels in Namche to tea houses and camps higher up.

Accommodation on the Trek

Namche Bazaar: Hotels with hot showers, internet, attached bathrooms.
Higher Up: Tea houses with basic facilities, some with hot showers.
Camping: Self-supported or agency-provided camps; you must carry your own gear.

Cost Estimate for 2025-2026

Typical Trek Cost: $1200 – $1500 USD per person (including accommodation, permits, food, travel).
Permits: Around $15-$23 USD total.
Accommodation:
Namche hotels: $50-$100/night
Tea houses: $7-$12/night
Camps: Self-equipped or provided by agencies.

Day 01 :

From Kathmandu Airport, take a plane to Lukla, then hike 6.2 km (3.8 mi) to Phakding (2,651m/8,695 ft). 3–4 hours, lodging in a tea house.

Lukla Altitude: 2,860 meters
Phakding Altitude: 2,610 meters
Accommodation: Tea House

Upon arrival in Nepal, your journey begins with a 30 to 45-minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest Base Camp trek. After landing at Lukla Airport, you’ll take a short break before starting the hike.

The trek to Phakding takes about 3 to 4 hours, following an uphill trail with uneven terrain. Once you reach Phakding, you’ll spend the night in a tea house

Day 02 :

Phakding to Namche Bazaar Trek (7.4km / 4.6m, 3,430m/11,283ft), 5–6 hours, Tea House Lodging

Namche Bazaar Altitude: 3,430 meters
Accommodation: Tea House

On the second day of the trek, you'll begin your journey from Phakding and head towards Namche Bazaar, situated at 3,430 meters. Known as the "Gateway to Everest," Namche is renowned for its vibrant Sherpa culture and modern amenities.

The trek takes approximately 5 to 6 hours and passes through Monjo village, where you’ll secure your Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit. Upon reaching Namche Bazaar, you'll be greeted with stunning views of Mount Everest and Ama Dablam before settling in at a tea house for the night.

Day 03 :

Namche Bazaar (3,430 m/11,283 ft) Acclimatization Day, Tea House Accommodation.

Namche Bazaar Altitude: 3,430 meters
Activity: Acclimatization

On the third day, you’ll stay in Namche Bazaar for acclimatization to help your body adjust to the high altitude. While it’s a rest day, you can explore nearby areas, take short hikes, or visit local landmarks.

It’s important to stay well-hydrated and eat properly to maintain your strength. Your accommodation for the night will be at a tea house.

Day 04 :

Trek to Tengboche (9.2km/5.7mi; 3,870m/12,694ft) in 5–6 hours, with tea house accommodations

Tengboche Altitude: 3,870 meters
Accommodation: Tea House

On the fourth day, you'll trek uphill from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche, which takes about 5 to 6 hours. The trail passes through lush forests and offers scenic views of Mount Everest and Ama Dablam.

Along the way, you’ll encounter mani walls, chortens, and prayer flags reflecting the strong Buddhist culture. In Tengboche, you can visit the famous Tengboche Monastery, an important spiritual site in the region. You’ll spend the night at a tea house.

Day 05 :

Trek to Dingboche (12km/7.45mi; 4,360m/14,300ft) 5–6 hours, lodging at a tea house

Dingboche Altitude: 4,360 meters
Accommodation: Tea House

On the fifth day, you’ll begin your 5 to 6-hour trek from Tengboche to Dingboche. The trail ascends gradually through the scenic Imja Valley, offering stunning views throughout the journey.

After a few hours of trekking, you’ll reach Pangboche, a common stop for lunch among trekkers. From Pangboche, you’ll continue on the trail that leads to Dingboche, where you’ll stay overnight at a tea house.

Day 06 :

Tea House Accommodations and Acclimatization at Dingboche (4,360 m/14,300 ft)

Dingboche Altitude: 4,360 meters
Activity: Acclimatization

Day six is your second acclimatization day during the 12-day Everest Base Camp Trek. You'll spend the day resting in Dingboche, surrounded by breathtaking Himalayan views. You can also take short hikes to nearby viewpoints for better acclimatization. Make sure to stay hydrated, eat well, and focus on your overall health to prepare for the higher altitudes ahead.

Day 07 :

Trek to Lobuche (4940 m/16,203 ft) (8.5km/5.2mi) in 5–6 hours, with lodging at a tea house

Lobuche Altitude: 4940 Meters

Accommodation: Tea House

The seventh day in your 12 Days Everest Base Camp Trek marks the hike from Dingboche to Lobuche. You will catch a trail that leads to Pheriche valley, where you can see the Yak pastures and green open lands with a close view of Ama Dablam.

Then the trail leads you to Thokla Pass and then head towards Lobuche. You will enjoy the views of Lhotse, Nuptse, and Everest while you walk for a few hours to Lobuche from the Thokla Pass.

Day 08 :

Trek to Gorak Shep (5,170 m/16,957ft), visit Everest Base Camp (5,364 m/17,594 ft) (15km / 9.32mi) 6-7 hours, Tea House Accommodation.

Gorakshep Altitude: 5170 Meters

Accommodation: Tea House

Trek to Gorakshep takes around 6 to 7 hours from Lobuche. You will travel through a rugged trail from Lobuche that leads you to the last Sherpa Settlement in the Everest region. After reaching Gorakshep, you will travel to Everest Base Camp at 5,364 meters and be involved in the fun and recreational activities.

After your time in Everest Base Camp completes, you will have to return back to Gorak Shep since you will not find any accommodation facilities around the base camp. You will stay at a tea house in Gorakshep on the eighth day of your 12 Days Everest Base Camp Trek.

Day 09 :

Trek to Pheriche (4,288m/14,264ft) from Kala Patthar (5,545m/18,187ft) for the sunrise of Mount Everest (9.6km/6mi) in 7-8 hours, with tea house accommodations.

Location: Kala Patthar
Altitude: 5,545 meters
Accommodation: Tea House

From Gorakshep, you will embark on one of the longest and most rewarding hikes of your 12-day Everest Base Camp Trek. The trek to Kala Patthar takes around 7 to 8 hours. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Nuptse, and several other towering Himalayan peaks.

Day 10 :

Trek for six to seven hours to Namche Bazaar (3,430 m/11,283 ft) (14.3 km / 8.8 mi), with tea house accommodations.

Location: Namche Bazaar
Altitude: 3,430 meters
Accommodation: Tea House

On the tenth day of your trek, you will begin your return journey to Namche Bazaar, located at 3,430 meters. Along the way, you will pass through Pheriche and Pangboche, trekking through lush forests filled with Rhododendron and oak trees before arriving at the "Gate of Everest." The trek will take about 6 to 7 hours, and you will stay overnight at a tea house in Namche Bazaar.

Day 11 :

Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2860 m/9383 ft) (13.5km / 8.3 mi) 6 – 7 hours, Tea House Accommodation.

Location: Lukla
Altitude: 2,860 meters

Accommodation: Tea House

On the eleventh day, you will trek back to Lukla from Namche Bazaar, which takes approximately 6 to 7 hours. The route includes steep terrain, so it’s important to have sturdy, high-quality hiking boots. Once in Lukla, you will stay at a tea house and have the opportunity to explore the local Sherpa culture.

Day 12 :

Fly back to Kathmandu from Lukla

It’s the last day of your 12-day Everest Base Camp trek. You’ll take a flight from Lukla back to Kathmandu. Several airlines operate this route, including Yeti Airlines and Buddha Airlines, allowing you to choose your preferred option.

The flight from Lukla to Kathmandu takes about 30 to 45 minutes. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, a travel agent will escort you to your hotel for an overnight stay. You can also take this opportunity to explore the city, visiting popular tourist spots or enjoying nightlife with clubs and music parties. As you prepare to depart Nepal, cherish the unforgettable memories you’ve made on this incredible journey.

FAQs

Expand all

How hard is trek to Everest Base Camp?

The journey to Everest Base Camp is demanding yet attainable for many individuals who possess a decent level of fitness and resolve. The primary challenges arise from the significant altitude, peaking at 5,545 meters (18,192 feet) at Kala Patthar, the extensive daily trekking durations, and the erratic weather conditions in the Himalayas. Altitude sickness is a frequent issue, so acclimatization days are included in the schedule to aid your body in adapting.

The path ranges from straightforward, clearly marked routes to tougher, uneven areas that need strong balance and endurance. Although technical climbing skills aren’t necessary, being physically prepared—like engaging in cardiovascular and endurance training—can help make the journey easier. By following a structured itinerary such as that provided by The Great Adventure Treks & Expedition and maintaining a consistent pace during the trek, many people discover the experience to be difficult but highly fulfilling.

Is Everest Base Camp trek for beginners?

Yes, the Everest Base Camp trek can be suitable for beginners, but it requires proper preparation, a good level of fitness, and a willingness to adapt to the challenges of high-altitude trekking. While no technical climbing skills are needed, the trek involves long daily hikes (4–8 hours) on uneven and sometimes steep trails. The biggest challenge for beginners is managing the effects of altitude, as the trek reaches a maximum elevation of 5,545 meters (18,192 feet) at Kala Patthar.

To make the trek more manageable, beginners should:

Train in advance with regular cardio, strength, and endurance exercises.
Choose an itinerary with built-in acclimatization days, such as the 12-day trek offered by The Great Adventure Treks & Expedition.
Pack appropriate gear and stay hydrated throughout the journey.

With proper guidance, support from experienced trekking leaders, and a steady pace, many beginners successfully complete this incredible adventure.

What should I pack for the Everest Base Camp trek?

Preparing for the Everest Base Camp Trek necessitates thoughtful planning for the high-altitude surroundings and the difficult landscape. Here is a list of necessary items you will require for the hike:

Apparel

Base Layer (Top & Bottom): Fabrics that wick moisture, such as merino wool or synthetic options, are perfect for the base layer. They assist in drawing sweat off your skin and maintain your dryness
Insulating Layer: A fleece coat or down coat offers heat in chilly evenings and mornings.
Outer Layer (Water-resistant & Wind-resistant): A lightweight, breathable waterproof coat and trousers shield against wind and rain. Gore-Tex is a widely used fabric for outer garments.
Trekking Pants & Shorts: Comfortable, fast-drying trousers are vital for trekking.
Additionally, include a pair of shorts for warmer temperatures in lower elevations.
Thermal Underwear: Crucial for insulation, particularly in elevated regions and chilly nights.
Gloves & Hat: Insulated gloves and a hat to keep warm in cold conditions, plus a sunhat for daytime shield.
Buff or Neck Gaiter: Shields your neck and face against wind and dust.

Footwear

Hiking Boots: Durable, water-resistant, and comfortably worn-in footwear that provides excellent ankle support. Ensure they feel at ease, since you will be walking for several hours each day.
Camp Footwear: Lightweight footwear such as sandals or sneakers for unwinding at the tea houses.
Cozy Wool Socks: Multiple sets of premium wool socks designed to keep your feet warm and dry. Steer clear of cotton socks since they hold onto moisture.

Sleeping Gear

Sleeping Bag: A high-altitude sleeping bag rated for temperatures as low as -10°C (14°F). Tea houses often provide blankets, but the extra warmth of your own bag is recommended.
Sleeping Liner: A silk or cotton liner for extra warmth and hygiene.

Gear & Accessories

Trekking Poles: Adjustable trekking poles help with balance and reduce strain on your knees, especially on steep descents.
Daypack: A lightweight, comfortable daypack (around 20–30L) for carrying your essentials like water, snacks, camera, and first-aid kit.
Hydration System: A reusable water bottle and/or hydration bladder. Water purification tablets or a filter are essential, as water from taps or streams needs to be purified.
Headlamp: A headlamp with extra batteries is crucial for early morning or late-night trekking and in the tea house.
Sunglasses: UV-protective sunglasses to shield your eyes from the strong sunlight and snow glare.
Sun Protection: Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), lip balm with sunblock, and a hat for sun protection.

Personal Items

Personal Medications: If you take any medication, make sure to carry enough for the entire trek, plus some extra in case of delays.
First Aid Kit: Basic supplies like plasters, antiseptic, pain relievers, and blister treatment.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, and biodegradable soap. Wet wipes and hand sanitizers are useful for keeping clean in remote areas.
Snacks: Energy bars, trail mix, or other lightweight, high-calorie snacks to keep your energy up during the trek.

Electronics

Power Bank: A portable power bank to charge your phone, camera, or other electronics as charging is often limited and may cost extra in tea houses.
Camera: A camera or smartphone with extra memory cards to capture the stunning views.

Documents

Travel Insurance: A copy of your travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking, emergency evacuation, and medical coverage.
Permits & Copies: Carry a copy of your permits, passport, and other important documents.

Optional Items

Gaiters: Helpful for protecting your boots from snow or mud.
Thermal Flask: Keeps hot drinks warm and helps avoid the need to buy expensive hot beverages along the trail.
Portable Wi-Fi/Charging Devices: If you plan to stay connected, a portable hotspot can be helpful, though not always reliable in remote areas.

By packing smart and bringing the right gear, you’ll be better prepared to handle the challenges of the Everest Base Camp Trek and enjoy a comfortable journey.