Nepal · Khumbu — Sagarmatha

Everest Base Camp Trek

The trek of a lifetime — 5,364m EBC, Kalapatthar sunrise + Sherpa culture

Everest Base Camp (EBC) is one of the world's most iconic treks — 130 km round-trip over 12-14 days from Lukla airport to EBC (5,364m) + Kalapatthar viewpoint (5,545m). Sherpa culture, high-altitude teahouses + jaw-dropping views of Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse.

Trek length
130 km / 12-14 days round trip
EBC altitude
5,364m
Kalapatthar viewpoint
5,545m (best Everest photo)
Best season
October-November + March-May

Everest Base Camp Trek highlights

Lukla to Namche Bazaar (day 1-3)

The trek start — Sherpa capital at 3,440m. Sunday market. 2-day acclimatisation stop essential.

Tengboche Monastery

3,867m — the largest Buddhist monastery in the Khumbu region. Backdrop of Ama Dablam.

Dingboche + Chukung day hike

4,410m acclimatisation stop. Optional day hike to Chukung Ri (5,550m) or Nangkartshang Peak.

Lobuche (4,940m)

Second-highest village on the trek. Sunset views of Nuptse + Everest.

Everest Base Camp (5,364m)

The destination — spring Everest expedition camp with hundreds of tents. Autumn has just prayer flags.

Kalapatthar sunrise (5,545m)

The BEST Everest photo viewpoint — 3h dawn hike from Gorak Shep. Absolutely worth the pre-dawn climb.

Alternative: 3-day Everest View Trek

Shorter option — 3 days to Namche + Everest View Hotel (3,880m). No Base Camp but Everest visible.

Heli-return option

Fly out from Gorak Shep or Lukla to Kathmandu — $600-1,500 pp saves 5 days downhill trek.

Getting there

Fly Kathmandu KTM to Lukla LUA (35 min — the world's most dangerous airport). Trek starts from Lukla. Book flights + trek permits 2-4 months ahead in October-November peak.

Getting around

Trek is walking only. Yaks + porters carry gear. Overnight in teahouses ($10-30/night).

Best time to visit

October-November (clearest, most stable) + March-May (spring, warmer). Avoid June-September (monsoon).

Budget per day

$40-80 basic teahouse trek · $150-300 mid-range guided · $3,000+ luxury lodge + guide (Yeti Mountain Home)

Airport transfer from Tenzing-Hillary Lukla (2,860m, one of the world's shortest runways) (LUA)

Getting out of Everest Base Camp Trek (LUA)

Skip the taxi rank and lock in your fare before you land.

Pre-book a fixed-price transfer

Our pick

Driver waits at arrivals with your name, tracks your flight, and the price you see is the price you pay. English-speaking, fixed price. No surge, no haggling at 2am.

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Fly to Tenzing-Hillary Lukla (2,860m, one of the world's shortest runways) (LUA)

Popular direct routes from: Kathmandu → Lukla

Where to stay in Everest Base Camp Trek

Frequently asked about Everest Base Camp Trek

How difficult is the Everest Base Camp trek?
Physically demanding but no technical climbing — fit hikers can do it. Altitude is the main challenge (up to 5,545m). 12-14 days with 2-3 acclimatisation days.
Do I need a guide for EBC?
Since 2023 Nepal requires all trekkers to hire a licensed guide. Solo trekking no longer permitted. Budget $25-40/day for guide + $15-25/day porter.
When is the best time for EBC?
October-November (clearest sky, most stable). March-May (spring, warmer, more expedition activity). Avoid June-September (monsoon, cloud, leech).
How dangerous is Lukla flight?
Tenzing-Hillary is one of the world's most dangerous airports (short + sloped runway). Flights delayed frequently due to weather. Build buffer days into your itinerary.
Should I take altitude sickness pills?
Discuss with doctor — Diamox (acetazolamide) helps. Ascend gradually, drink water, avoid alcohol first 3 days. Get down if severe symptoms.