The Everest Base Camp Trek is considered one of the most fascinating adventures in Nepal. During this journey, you will trek all the way to base camp of Mount Everest at 5364 meters which is the lifelong aspiration for many adventurers around the globe.
The 12 Day Everest Base Camp Trek starts with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla.
The route passes through destinations such as Phakding and Namche Bazaar which is famous as the resting place of trekkers. Then, it takes trekkers through places like Tengboche, Dingboche and Lobuche.
As you progress along the trail, the varied scenery of forested hills to rocky and alpine terrain can be seen. The scenery becomes more impressive as you climb higher, letting you behold the clear views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam and many other snow clad peaks.
The traditional stone houses and old monasteries of Buddhists along the trail help you gain an in depth understanding of the unique Sherpa culture and the Himalayan life in general. The cultural aspects make this adventure more meaningful.
One of the most amazing experiences for anyone undertaking this adventure trek is visiting the Everest Base Camp, which is a legendary destination for climbers who are preparing to summit Mount Everest.
In addition, during this 12 Day Everest Base Camp trek, you will also be hiking up to Kala Patthar (5,644.5 m) which rewards you clear views of Everest and many other surrounding mountains.
This adventure offers an exciting blend of stunning Himalayan scenery, cultural experiences and thrilling experiences. In the return journey, the route provides trekkers with another chance to enjoy peaceful landscapes.
The 12 days EBC trek is a perfect blend of adventure, culture and natural beauty which leaves a lasting impression and a truly rewarding Himalayan experience.
Note: We have designed 15 days EBC Kala Patthar trek itinerary, where you will get Kathmandu day sightseeing tour and hotel cost is included in the package
12 Days Everest Base Camp Trek Highlights
- Exciting flight between Kathmandu and Lukla.
- Trek through the Sagarmatha National Park.
- Incredible views of Ama Dablam, Everest, Lhotse and many other mountains.
- A chance to explore scenic stops like Namche Bazaar, Lobuche and Gorakshep.
- Explore Tengboche Monastery and get a chance to understand its spiritual significance.
- Acclimatization hikes during the stay in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche to some of the most picturesque stops of the Everest Region.
- Meet Sherpa people, observe their daily life in the mountains and experience their warm hospitality.
- Visit Everest Base Camp.
- Hike to Kala Patthar and get rewarded with magnificent views of Mount Everest and other nearby peaks.
Everest Base Camp Trek 12 Days Itinerary
You will board a 30 minute flight to Lukla early in the morning and enjoy the magnificent mountain range as you arrive at Lukla airport. There, you will be introduced to your porter if you booked one. After enjoying a hearty breakfast, you will start trekking. The walk to Phakding is a fairly easy 3 hour walk through the Dudhkosi valley. You will head north from the airstrip to Chheplung (2700m) and cross the ThadoKoshi River on a local-style suspension bridge. Just past the bridge, you can see the peak Kusum and Kanggru (6367m), which are some of the most difficult trekking peaks to climb. Beyond the ThadoKoshi, the trail climbs towards the Ghat (2590m) and crosses a ridge marked with painted Mani stones. You will continue the ascend to reach the beautiful village of Phakding where you will stay overnight.
You will start this second day through the Valley of Dudhkosi River. You will cross the Dudhkosi River 5 times on exciting suspension bridges laden with prayer flags on the way to Namche. After the last bridge, you will continue your ascent, gradually leading to Jorsale. It is a 2h30 climb up to Namche with two view points on the way. You will enjoy a mesmerizing view of Mt Everest on a clear day on the trail. At Jorsale, you will enter the Sagarmatha National park where you will need to verify your permits. After 5/6 hours of a hard walk, you will finally reach the main trading center of the region : Namche Bazaar.
Acclimatization is very important to avoid altitude sickness. You will go on a day hike through the villages of Khunde and Khumjung and come back to Namche through the Everest view hotel Khumjung. You can see the scalp of a Yeti in the monastery in the region. You will enjoy panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam and other mountains on a fair day. After a savory breakfast, you will take a steep 1h climb to the Syangboche airstrip (3790m), from where you will slowly ascend towards Khunde passing numerous chorten (stone Buddhist monuments). From Khunde you will follow the trail eastwards to Khumjung, the largest village in the Khumbu region, at the foot of the sacred peak Khumbila. After having lunch at Khumjung, you will follow a gradual climb to Everest View Hotel where you will enjoy the splendid mountain views. Then you will descend to Namche to spend your second night there (3540m).
Your route to Tengboche weaves in and out of side valleys, making small ups and downs, to the teashops of Kenjoma, and joins the trail from Khumjung just before a collection of Mani stones. The views of Everest and Ama Dablam are stunning. You will pass the small settlement of Sanasa from where the trail drops towards Phunkithanga (3250m). From here the trail climbs steeply through pine forests and around Mani stones as it follows the side of a hill to the saddle on which the monastery of Tengboche sits at 3870m. The view from here is rightly deemed to be one of the world’s most magnificent sceneries. Kwangde (6187m), Tawachee (6542m), Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse (8501m), Amadablam, Kantega and Thamserku provide an inspiring panorama as the Himalayan giants. You will spend the night in the Tengboche village.
You will start your trek with a descent through a beautiful forest, then cross the Imja Khola and trek through the village of Pangboche. The route continues through summer pastures to Dingboche. You will spend the night at Dingboche. It is a very relaxing village with lots of mountain views. This is an easy 3/4h walk.
You will start around 8:30am for a nice trek up to Chhukung/ Nagarjun Peak 5000m. You will get a beautiful view of most of the mountains, especially Makalu from Nagarjun Peak and Ama Dablam. The view from Chhukung and further up the valley on the moraines towards Island Peak is tremendous. To the south-west, the eastern face of Amadablam provides an incredible view of the picturesque peak. You will go back down to Dingboche for the night, probably facing strong winds.
You will start with a 1h30 climb to the Chorten trail. Then you will get to Thugla at 4600m to have lunch in a tea house, before climbing the steep part of the day’s trek for about 1h30. You will get closer to high mountains like Mt. Pumori and Mt. Nuptse after a while as you proceed towards Lobuche where only basic accommodation and food is provided. You will walk along a broad valley floor to Thugla, leaving behind the Trekkers Aid Post at Pheriche at 4240m. A western volunteer doctor, supported by The Himalayan Rescue Association is stationed here and offers treatment and consultation to trekkers as you continue up the valley gaining altitude. When you come out of the valley, you will descend to the yak pastures at Lobuche. Overnight at Lodge.
You will go on a 2h hike up to Gorakshep in the morning. The first part is nice and easy but the trail gets harder 1h later, which is compensated by a really nice view on big walls formed by Everest, Nuptse and other mountains. Once you climb about 150m then the trail gets easier again. Shortly after, you will get to the moraine. Finally, you will get to the world’s highest settlement at Gorakshep. After having lunch, you will walk towards Everest base camp, on a side ridge of the Khumbu glacier. After walking on the ridge for about 1h30, you will cross the Glacier and enter the Everest base camp area. You will reach your final goal by trekking to Everest base camp at an altitude of 5364m. You will get a good view of Khumbu glacier and Khumbu Ice fall. From there you can also see the big crevasses in the climbing way. After appreciating your own efforts and photographing the achievements, you will walk back to Gorakshep.
You will go for a 2h hike to Kalapathar around 4:30am to get the chance to see the sun rising on the mountains and clear views of Mt. Everest and its surrounding peaks. Most of the famous photographs of Everest are taken from this “thump” on the landscape. You will need very warm clothes to go on this hike, as it will begin before sunrise. After having breakfast in Gorakshep, you will go down to Pheriche. Overnight at Lodge.
From Debuche, a 1h30 climb takes you to Tengboche, from where you will descend to Phunkithanga at 3200m. Then you will have a final climb towards Namche Bazaar for the final party night, which is also the last chance to have close-up views of the mountains. Following the same way back to Namche is an easy walk. Once you get to Namche you can appreciate a hot shower and wifi, as well as pasteries and beers in bakeries and bars.
The trail from Namche to Lukla is mostly downhill to the flat part. You will exit the Sagarmatha National park and reach Lukla after a final effort climbing stairs. You will have the opportunity to have dinner with your guide and porter(s) and celebrate the end of your journey.
You will fly to Kathmandu early in the morning, enjoying really nice views of most of the Himalayan range. Do not forget to choose the seat on the right hand sight of the aircraft. Finally you will reach Kathmandu airport, come to our office for a quick debfriefing and go back to your hotel to get some rest after this amazing 12 day trek.
Cost Include(s)
- Three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) with a cup of hot drink( Tea/Coffee).
- Fresh fruit every evening after the dinner.
- Trekking Lodge (Tea House) accommodations throughout the trek.
- Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit & Khumbu Pashang Lhamu Rural Municipality fees.
- Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu flight including airport transfer( High season flight to and from Lukla are operated from Ramechhap airport which is 4-5 hours east of Kathmandu)
- A highly experience, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly , English speaking well trained, Government License holder guide with all his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport and insurance.
- Strong, helpful porters with proper equipment (1 porter= two people). with all his salary, food, drinks, accommodation and insurance.
- Comprehensive medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
- Arrangement of Emergency Helicopter service (paid by your Travel Insurance company).
- Nepal Eco Adventure T-shirt, cap and duffel bag.
- Luggage storage available for items not needed during the trek.
- Government taxes and official expenses.
- Everest base camp trekking map.
- Oxymeter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily (Very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness(AMS) symptoms) Which will ensure you trek is in the safest hands possible for all levels of trekker.
- Assistant guide group size above 6+ person.
Cost Exclude(s)
- Meals and hotel whilst you are in Kathmandu.
- Nepal entry visa fee $50 USD for 30 days Visa on arrival.
- Your Travel and Medical Insurance(Recommended)
- International Airfare.
- Your Personal Expenses.
- Use of sleeping bag, down Jacket and walking Poles (if you don’t have your own these can be rented, To be return after trip completed). Using these 3 items you pay $10 USD each as maintenance and washing charge.
- All the alcoholic and non alcoholic cold and hot drinks on trek ( i.e. those you choose to purchase along the way and during evenings in the Tea Houses)
- All desserts sweet things like chocolate, cake, pie, pudding.
- Hot shower and battery charging on the tea houses.
- Tips for the guide, porter and driver (Tipping is expected)
- Excess baggage more than 15kg for Lukla flight.
- Single trekker can add the porter paying $250 USD if you required a porter to carry your gear.
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Packing list for Everest Base Camp – Kalapathar Trek
Frequently Asked Questions
Visa and Arrival
Yes. Most foreign nationals can acquire tourist visas upon arriving at International airports of Nepal or other authorized land border entry points. Passengers need valid passports, passport size photographs and valid payment receipt for visa processing. After presenting these documents at the immigration counter, your visa will be issued upon arrival.
However, travelers from certain countries need to obtain visa before arriving. They can apply through Nepal’s diplomatic missions in their home countries before traveling.
We advise you to check the latest immigration regulations of Nepal before departure to confirm whether your country requires a visa in advance. You may check the Department of Immigration of Nepal for more information about Tourist Visa.
Tourist visas in Nepal depend on how many days visitors wish to stay in Nepal. 15 days stay in Nepal requires a visa fee of USD 30, while 30 days stay will cost USD 50. For a 90 days the cost of a Nepal visa is USD 125.
Yes it can be extended. This can be done at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or Pokhara. You may apply for extension before the visa expires. The process for visa extension in Nepal is simple as long as all required documents are submitted to the immigration office.
General
The maximum elevation that you reach during the Everest Kala Patthar trek is at 5644.5 m at Kala Patthar viewpoint.
Yes, you should. We highly recommend you have extra days in your trekking itinerary. This is a 12 days Everest Base Camp itinerary. However, weather fluctuations are common at high altitudes. So, changing the route could be necessary.
Plus, sometimes trekkers may not be able to cover the distance as they have intended. Some trekkers may also want to keep extra days for acclimatization. That's why you should keep buffer days.
Trekkers on 12 day Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar trek pass through key stops which includes Lukla, the scenic Phakding, bustling Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche and Gorak Shep before they reach EBC and hike to Kala Patthar.
Yes. At Nepal Eco Adventure, we design personalized itineraries. We craft it based on the fitness and preferences of the individuals. If you want customized itinerary for you can reach out to us. We will then design it accordingly.
Best Time and Weather
Spring and autumn are considered favourable times for the Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar because of clear skies, stable weather and pleasant temperatures that make the trekking experience more comfortable. These seasons provide excellent visibility.
In addition, the likelihood of disruption due to adverse weather conditions is also low which presents ideal conditions for reaching Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar.
Yes. The Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar can be undertaken in winter months. But trekkers should know about all kinds of difficulties associated with this cold season. Trekkers must be prepared for chilly weather, heavy snowfall at high altitude sections and navigation through the icy terrain.
This season is usually preferred by experienced trekkers who know the route and can handle the winter cold of the Himalayas.
Despite some notable challenges, winter trekking can become a good experience since it offers serene and scenic trails. Those who are well prepared with warm clothing, the right trekking gear and have awareness of weather conditions can successfully conclude the journey even during winter.
If you are planning for a winter trek, then make sure to wear warm layers and be updated on real time weather and trail conditions. If weather conditions do not appear favorable, it is best not to head outside.
October and November offers clearest mountain views in the Everest region. After the monsoon, the skies get very clear and visibility is exceptional. So, you can see clear scenery of snowy mountains.
During these autumn months, the air is fresh after the monsoon rains clear the atmosphere. There is no haze and dust in the atmosphere. So, trekkers get sharp mountain panoramas throughout the journey. Moreover, the lighting in these months are beautiful, which makes them ideal for photography too, especially during golden hours of sunrise and sunset.
During the monsoon season, the Everest region does get heavy rainfall. Sometimes, the views of mountains can be blocked by clouds and haze. The visibility can also be limited because of frequent cloud cover.
The lower regions can be humid because this season coincides with the summer. However, after heavy rains, the atmosphere cools down. Higher elevations mostly remain on the colder side even in this season. That's why it is essential to pack layered clothes. You must also not miss rain gear.
Though this season presents notable challenges, there are some unique rewards that you can get to experience only at this time. The landscapes turn greener in the monsoon season. So, you can see the lush Khumbu region.
Also, the trails tend to be less busy at this time as there are fewer visitors compared to peak seasons which lets you enjoy a personalized service even at busy teahouses
Furthermore, the misty mountains and clouds floating in the sky can be seen at this time, which is truly fascinating. Nevertheless, it is essential to be careful while navigating as heavy downpour can make the pathways slippery as well as muddy and flights to Lukla can be delayed or affected making travel less predictable and requiring flexibility in your itinerary.
Everest region attracts several trekkers from around the world mainly because of its well-developed trekking infrastructure. During the peak seasons (spring and autumn), many people join the trek, so the trail can become quite busy, especially around popular stops like Namche Bazaar and Lukla.
However, one of the most fascinating aspects about Himalayan regions is that the tranquility remains intact because of vast landscapes, remote trails and the sense of calmness that comes from being surrounded by snowy peaks and untouched nature. So, you don't need to worry about any kind of disturbances.
Another reason is that trekkers often move at different paces and follow different itineraries, which naturally reduces crowds at the same point. The only thing you should be mindful about is that the accommodation can get booked quickly especially at popular stops. So, advance booking is essential.
Trek Difficulty and Fitness
Everest Base Camp Kala Patthar Trek is moderate to challenging. The high altitude, long walking hours and strenuous ascents are major factors that contribute to trek's difficulty. For this journey trekkers need to be well prepared. In addition, they must also acclimatize properly in order to stay healthy and enjoy this trek safely and comfortably.
Prior experience in trekking can be beneficial. However, it is not necesary for this trek. Healthy and fit beginners with right determination and good preparation can complete the trek successfully.
A good level of physical fitness is required for the EBC trek. Trekkers will have to walk several hours each day on rugged high altitude terrain. So they need to be physically fit. Physically fit trekkers can navigate varied terrain and keep their energy levels up throughout the journey.
During the Everest Kalapatthar trek trekkers usually walk for 5 to 7 hours per day. The walking duration also depends on the itinerary you have chosen to follow. Trail conditions can also influence total time required while trekking. Make sure to take frequent breaks to easily manage the daily walks.
Packing and Essentials Required
Yes you can. There are several shops in Kathmandu especially in the tourist hub Thamel. Here, you can find good quality trekking gear for buying and renting. If you need to buy any gear, then it is available in Thamel.
At Nepal Eco Adventure, we provide equipments such as Down Jackets, Sleeping Bags and and Trekking Poles on rent. You may rent these items from us and return them after the trek’s completion.
We recommend you choose a durable daypack of 25 to 40 ltrs with good space. If you select a day pack with good space then you can store essentials needed for each day hike.
Energy snacks are needed to get quick energy while trekking. In remote areas of the Everest region, shops are limited. So, you need to buy energy snacks from the city area. It is one of the important packing essentials that is required for gaining instant energy in between meals.
Being dressed in layered clothing is best for the Everest Base Camp Kala Patthar trek. Make sure to wear moisture wicking base layers. Likewise, warm insulating jackets are also essential especially when weather gets cold.
Furthermore, waterproof outer wear is recommended for high altitude trekking. In addition, make sure to wear comfortable trekking pants. Gloves, hats and sturdy boots are must have items to stay secure and warm in changing mountain conditions
Permits
Yes. Permits are covered by the 12 days EBC Kala Patthar trek package. The permits need to be shown at the checkpoints. However, the guide will take care of everything at the checkpoints ensuring a smooth and hassle free trekking experience.
You will be passing through a protected area of Khumbu region during EBC Kala Patthar Trek. So, you will need the following permits:
- Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
- Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit
Meals and Accommodation
Yes. Most of the teahouse of Khumbu region are built to let trekkers rest comfortably after a long day on the trails. Almost all teahouses that you will be staying has a well maintained rooms with twin beds. Warm blankets are also provided.
Teahouse facilities become more basic at high altitude because of the remote location and limited resources. Rooms are simpler than those of lower elevations. Shared bathrooms are common at high altitude teahouses. Hot showers, heating systems and electricity may also be limited or available only at an extra cost. But teahouses still provide essential comfort, warm meals and a safe place to rest in high mountains.
Hot showers are available in most teahouses of the Everest region. At some stops, teahouse owners may also provide a bucket of hot water if you make a request. However, these services usually come at an additional cost which can range from US$2 to US$15 depending on the altitude.
Yes. Teahouses along the trail of EBC trek do offer charging facilities. However, at most of the high elevation teahouses, you usually have to pay an extra charge for this facility. Electricity at high altitude village is often produced using solar power. So, it can be limited.
Typically, charging costs range from US$2 to US$6 per device or hourly, depending on the altitude.
Safe drinking water is accessible on the EBC route. However, you should never drink it directly without purification. The most reliable option is to refill the bottles with boiled water at teahouses which usually costs between US$1 and US$4.
Water from natural sources is also found along the trail. But it should never be consumed directly. It must be properly treated using purification tablets or UV filters.
Yes. In the Everest region the access to the internet is available usually at extra cost. Wi Fi charges can generally range between US$2 to US$15 depending on the location. However, the connection might be slow at some places.
Alternatively, trekkers can use the Everest Link card. It is becoming popular among trekkers in the Himalayas. It provides coverage in many parts of the Everest region and can be purchased in Kathmandu, Lukla, Namche Bazaar, Dingboche and Gokyo.
On the trail of the EBC trek, teahouses generally serve simple and filling foods that are prepared to make sure that trekkers stay well-nourished.
Dal bhat, noodles, vegetable soup, pasta, Tibetan bread, Sherpa stew, roti, curry, pancake, potato dishes, momo, Thukpa, chowmein, pizza and sandwich are some popular food items that are served at the teahouses.
Yes, it is available. In fact, most of the dishes served in the Nepal Himalayas are vegetarian. You will have plenty of options for vegetarian foods. If you are vegan then please inform us before the journey and we can ask teahouse owners to make arrangements accordingly.
Meals on EBC trek are usually served at the local eateries and teahouses along the route. Teahouses where you stay for the night usually serve breakfast and dinner. Lunch is arranged at teahouses or local eateries on the route during the day’s trek.
These teahouses offer hearty and energy rich food. This helps trekkers stay fueled throughout the journey in the mountains.
EBC Trek Safety
The Everest Base Camp 12 Days trek passes through different high altitude areas. Also, you will be trekking to the Everest Base Camp at 5,364 meters. Likewise, you will also be exploring Kala Patthar that is situated at 5,644.5 m.
At such elevations, there is a likelihood of altitude sickness. Generally, trekkers may experience altitude sickness symptoms above 2,500 m especially if they cannot adapt to the high altitude. Some symptoms are
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Lack of appetite
To prevent altitude sickness, you may take following measures:
- Stay hydrated.
- Make sure to follow itinerary with acclimatization days.
- Have nutrient rich meals.
- Ascend slowly.
- Always be attentive to your body's reaction. If symptoms don't get better with rest then get back to lower elevations.
- Medicines like Diamox may work to treat or prevent altitude sickness. However, consultation with doctor before trek is recommended to ensure it's safe for you.
If you feel unwell at any moment of the journey, then make sure to inform your guide immediately. They will then analyze your situation and suggest you rest. They will also provide first aid if necessary and in urgent situations, the evacuation will be arranged.
The safety of the trek is guaranteed due to the presence of experienced guides. They carefully plan acclimatization. In addition, they do regular health monitoring. Guides check the trekkers for altitude sickness, provide first aid services and arrange evacuation through helicopter during emergencies.
Yes. It is. For this trek, you should get an insurance policy that covers high altitude trekking. Make sure that your insurance covers helicopter evacuation during emergencies.
Likewise, it is important to buy a policy that also provides coverage for trip interruptions, lost baggage and medical bills because of injury or illness during the trek. Buying insurance with the right coverage lets you stay financially protected which will ultimately help you trek with peace of mind.
Booking and Cost
Yes, advance booking is highly recommended. You will also be exploring the popular Everest region during this trek. This region can get crowded quite quickly, especially in the high seasons and finding accommodation on the trail at every stop can be difficult.
So, to avoid the hassle and for a more organized experience, booking the trekking package is recommended. All the logistical management becomes much easier if you book the package early.
The cost of 12 Days Everest Base Camp trek package starts from US$ 1350. The package includes all the essential services which will make your overall adventure smooth and hassle free.
To book the 12 day Everest Base Camp trek you may select the "Book this trip” option. Then, you can pick a suitable departure date. Afterwards, you may specify the group size and fill out the required details. An initial payment of 20% is needed to confirm the reservation.
For more information, you can contact us through email at nepalecoadventure@gmail.com or mail@nepalecoadventure.com. Alternatively you may call us at +977-1-4701526. You can also send us message on WhatsApp or Viber at +977-9851170646.
The 12 day Everest Base Camp trek package includes comfortable tea house accommodation, domestic flights (Kathmandu-Lukla), daily breakfast, lunch and dinner while trekking and required permits. We also provide fresh fruit each evening. In addition, trekkers will receive a map, T-shirt, cap and duffel bag. Secure luggage storage is also available in Kathmandu.
The trek is supported by a English speaking guide. In addition, experienced porters will also make your navigation much easier. A first aid box and oximeter are available throughout the journey. This 12 days EBC trek package also covers all government taxes and official fees.
Generally, trekkers tip between 10% and 20% of the total cost of the trip. However, you may tip according to your wishes. There is no fixed amount for tipping. It totally depends upon how pleased you are with the services.
The guides and porters put in a lot of effort to make your trek smooth. Tipping is a good way of acknowledging their efforts.
During the trek, cash is the most preferred mode of payment. Most local shops, teahouses and eateries generally accept only cash. The online payment options are limited in high mountain areas. So, it is highly recommended to carry cash.
During the EBC trek, it will be wise for you to have some cash for personal expenses. At higher elevations, you need some extra money for beverages, snacks, WiFi services, hot showers, boiled water, charging services or souvenirs.
ATMs are usually available in popular places such as Lukla and Namche Bazaar which might sometimes be unreliable. So, you need to get cash in the city before the trek starts. For the EBC trek, you may bring around US$ 200 to US$ 300 for personal expenses.
You can choose to pay through an American Dollar bank account or use international transfer services such as Western Union or Wise or by credit/debit card.
For online bookings, a 20% deposit is required in advance. The remaining balance can be paid either before your trek or after you arrive in Nepal.
More Info
Hike to Kala Patthar and Get Rewarded with Stunning Mountain Views
One of the main highlights of the Everest Base Camp Trek 12 days is exhilarating hike to Kala Patthar. You will hike to Kala Patthar early in the morning from Gorakshep. It is considered one of the most impressive viewpoints where trekkers can see Mount Everest clearly.
You will have to hike for about 1.5 to 2 hours to reach this ridge. Here, you can get to see wide views of Mount Everest that cannot be seen from any other points on the route.
People also usually visit Kala Patthar for incredible sunrises and sunsets. They often start the hike before dawn to catch the first sun rays touching Everest. Reaching Kala Patthar while feeling the thrill of standing at an altitude of 5,644.5 m while enjoying scenic vistas is one of the most rewarding parts of the trek.
Best Time for the Everest Base Camp Kala Patthar Trek
The Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) seasons are ideal for Everest Base Camp Kala Patthar Trek. These are great trekking periods due to stable weather, spectacular mountain views and ideal trekking conditions.
During the spring season, the region gets warmer after a cold winter. The Everest region looks beautiful at this time due to blooming wild flowers including the rhododendrons. The blooming flora makes the whole surroundings colorful.
Because of clear skies in spring, the trek becomes truly delightful. You can see mesmerizing sights of Mount Everest and many other Himalayan mountains under clear skies. Moreover, the days are longer in spring which means trekkers can take frequent breaks and spend more time appreciating spectacular mountain scenery on the route.
Autumn months are also favoured because of stable weather, pleasant temperatures and the clear blue skies. It is the post monsoon season. The rains in the monsoon wash dust and haze from the atmosphere. So, you will get to the clearest mountain views without any disruptions.
The lower elevation vegetation is lush green and nourished by monsoon rains. The forests, hills and valleys appear fresh after the monsoon, which makes the Himalayan landscapes more charming.
Pleasant daytime temperatures and clear visibility provide ideal trekking conditions while the clear autumn air allows you to enjoy mesmerizing mountain views and capture excellent photographs throughout the journey.
Everest Base Camp 12 Days: Trek Difficulty
The Everest Base Camp trek is moderate to challenging. Though the trek does not require you to have any advanced climbing techniques, the combination of lengthy walking days, steep terrain and the high altitude levels can make the navigation challenging.
During this adventure, trekkers usually walk for 5 to 7 hours per day on rugged terrain. They traverse rocky trails, cross suspension bridges and ascend upward.
Altitude is one of the major factors that make the trek challenging for hikers particularly when they start crossing the 4,000 meters and continue on towards Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar at above 5000 meters.
At such elevations, the low oxygen may make the trek difficult even during short climbs. This adventure indeed presents some notable challenges. However, with proper acclimatization and adequate preparation, the adventurers can complete this trek smoothly without much difficulty.