Group Size
Min 1 Max 12
Duration
14 Days
Grade
Max. Altitude
5,545m/18,193ft
Activity
Trekking in Nepal
Meals Included
Accomodation
Trip Overview
Highlights
- Trek to Everest base camp & Kalapathar in 14 days
- A full picture of Everest in shorter days
- Guided and all-inclusive trek with a full support crew
- Proper acclimatization, rest days & well-paced itinerary
1. Your safety is of imperative concern while traveling with Highland Expeditions. Please take care to note that your leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to your safety concerns. Every effort will be made to keep to the above itinerary; however, since this adventure entails traveling in remote mountainous regions, we cannot guarantee that we will not deviate from it. Weather, health condition of a group member, unexpected natural disasters, etc., can all contribute to changes in the itinerary. The trek leader will try to ensure that the trip runs according to plan, but please be prepared to be flexible if required.
2. During peak season months (April, May, October, and November), all STOL/Plane flights to and from Lukla will operate from Ramechap airport instead of Kathmandu airport. This change aims to ensure smoother flight operations, avoiding air traffic and delays. Ramechap airport is 130 km east of Kathmandu, requiring a 4-hour drive. Travelers during these months need to wake up around 2 a.m, drive to Ramechap, and board a 15-minute flight to Lukla. Return flights follow the same process. Read more about the Ramechap to Lukla flights
Trip Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu
Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Nepal. Upon completing the visa formalities and collecting your luggages in the airport, kindly proceed to the exit of the arrival hall. Your trip leader will await you just outside the arrival hall and will escort you to your hotel in Kathmandu. Please look out for a placard of Highland Expeditions at the exit of arrival hall. Welcome drinks will be served and after you’ve refreshed, your trek leader will brief you about your trip in the lobby of your hotel in the evening. Get familiar with your surroundings by taking a walk down the street
Meals:
Welcome Dinner
Accommodation:
Hotel
Max Elevation:
1,350m/4,430ft
Fly to Lukla and trek to Phakding
After an early morning b/fast, we take the mountain flight from Kathmandu to Lukla on STOL aircraft. Flight time is about 35 minutes to the airstrip built by Sir Edmund Hillary and the Sherpas in the mid-1960s. At Lukla we are immediately overcome by the scale of the massive peaks that surround the village but this is only an indication of what is to come. After meeting the crew, we head up the Dudh Koshi Valley on a well-marked trail and then stay overnight in Phakding.
Overall elevation gain tonight from previous night: 1,250m/4,100ft
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
3-4 hrs
Max Elevation:
2,600m/8,531ft
Trek to Namche Bazar
We will continue our journey along Dudhkoshi River which will take us through pine forest. After crossing suspension bridges at several points and passing through small settlements of Zapute, Toktok, Benkar and Chumoa, we will reach Monjo. Ahead of Monjo is the entry to the Sagarmatha National Park planned to look after and preserve the fragile mountain environment. Lowering down from the park, crossing another suspension bridge, we will proceed towards high Hillary Bridge located at the foot of the hill. Crossing this bridge, we will climb uphill to the Namche Bazaar. We can get view of Thamserku Mountain. If weather is clear, we can also have first view of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse and Kusum Khangru mountains.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
6-7 hrs
Max Elevation:
3,450m/11,319ft
Rest and acclimatization day
We remain at Namche for a second night to allow for proper acclimatization to the altitude. Namche is a prosperous village, situated in a large protected hollow. After breakfast, we hike to Everest view hotel and continue to Khumjung for the lunch. Your guides will be on hand to offer advice and escort you on your walks.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
3-4 hrs
Max Elevation:
3,450m/11,319ft
Trek to Deboche
We will walk along the glacial water of Dudh Koshi River. The route offers views of Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse and, Thamserku and Ama Dablam Mountains. Our journey continues through the colorful forest of blooming rhododendron to Sanasa. The region is rich in wildlife including musk deer and colorful pheasants. In Sanasa lies the junction point. One of the path leads us to the Gokyo valley while the other branches off to Everest Base Camp. We will take sharp climb to Tengboche monastery which is the largest Gompa in the Khumbu region. The journey rewards us with close-up views of many surrounding mountains. We will visit the monastery and walk through forest of birch and rhododendron to Debuche where we will stay overnight.
Overall elevation gain tonight from previous night: 270m/886ft
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
6-7 hrs
Max Elevation:
3,720 m/12,205ft
Trek to Dingboche
We hike through a few Chortens, mani walls and some small villages after which, we haul up for some grub and while enjoying our meals we savor some upfront views of Amadablam towering just above us; We trek via Pangboche, the highest of the true lasting settlements in the valley and reach the regular settlement, the final steepest climb of the day on our way to Dingboche. Agriculture is the chief occupation of locals in Dingboche. We can see fields enclosed by stonewall in Dingboche. Buckwheat, potatoes and barley are the major crops.
Overall elevation gain tonight from previous tonight: 692m/2,270ft
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
6-7 hrs
Max Elevation:
4,412m/14,475ft
Rest and acclimatization with a hike to Nagartsang Peak
Climb high and sleep low!! This is a day to haul up and rest without being idle. Our acclimatizing gets a further boost with our hike to Nagartsang Peak [5,083m/16,625ft] and as we top it with gasping breath we soon realize the gritty climb was worth the go. Doing this acclimatization helps in adapting with the high altitude, afterwards retrace back to Dingboche for a free afternoon to rest.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
3-4 hrs
Max Elevation:
5,083m/16,625ft
Trek to Lobuche
After crossing by some of the teahouses of Duglha, we plod higher onto the pretty risky moraine of the Khumbu glacier, passing a chain of stone monuments built in memory of Sherpas who have died on mountaineering expeditions to Mt Everest. From hereabouts, the trail lowers and goes by the west side of the valley to Lobuche. The sunset on Nuptse from this point is an amazing sight to behold.
Overall elevation gain tonight from previous night: 498m/1,633ft
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
6-7 hrs
Max Elevation:
4,910m/16,109ft
Trek to E.B.C and retrace back to Gorekshep
A real early start is required to reach the Everest Base Camp. It takes several hours as the trail weaves its way through ice pinnacles and past the crevasses of the Khumbu Glacier. After a brief lunch and rest, we take the trail to Everest Base Camp through the once vast Gorak Shep Lake. Only upon reaching the Everest Base Camp do we really appreciate the Everest climbers who brave the risky route through the Khumbu icefall. Mountaineer’s tents stand out in bright colors against the monotony of gray surroundings (especially in the spring). Nuptse, Khumbuste and Pumori are the mountains we can view from the base camp. On the return leg, we can take a higher route to get a grand view of the Khumbu icefall and the route to the South Col. We return to Gorakshep for a restful night.
Overall elevation gain tonight from previous tonight: 230m/754ft
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
7-8 hrs
Max Elevation:
5,364m/17,559ft
Hike up to Kalapathar and retrace back to Pheriche
Today is the most important part of our trip. We start early at dawn to catch the dramatic views from Kalapatthar witnessing the first light of day shining on Mt. Everest. However, we need to get prepared for an early morning, dark and cold temperature (-5 to -15 C) departure beforehand. Plus, there is always the potential for chilly winds which are quite common. Familiar peaks such as Lingtren, Khumbutse, Changtse tower to the east even as Everest begins to expose itself emerging between the west shoulder crest and Nuptse. During the ascent to Kalapatthar we can pause to catch our breath at several outstanding viewpoints to click pictures. After several hours of ascent, we reach Kalapatthar. From here, we scuttle to climb the rocky outcrop near to the summit marked by cairns and prayer flags. As we reach the top, we sit on the Kalapatthar rocks and our eyes take in the unbelievable Himalayan views, wandering from one mighty massif to another. We take as many pictures as we possibly can with our camera so they can last a lifetime. After this we make our way back to Pheriche with a slow descent; for a good night’s rest which we truly deserve.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
8-9 hrs
Max Elevation:
5,545m/18,193ft
Trek to Namche Bazar
Today we descend down, we revert on our previous route to Pangboche and tengboche. We will take gentle descend to Phortse tenga which is a teahouse settlement. We will lower down from hill through the forest of pine and rhododendron. We will cross the wooden bridge over Dudhkoshi River and head towards Sanasa village. From here the trail contours high above the valley and its then a gradual walk to Namche Bazaar for an overnight stay.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
6-7 hrs
Max Elevation:
3,450m/11,319ft
Trek to Lukla
Our last day of trek following the Dudh Kosi River down to Lukla. It’s only a gradual walk along the Dudhkhosi river after our steep descent from Namche. We’ll have lunch on our way and we make the final climb up to the airstrip at Lukla. Rest of the day is free and you can relax under the warm sun & reflect on the emotional experiences we had while hiking through these massive mountains that have probably helped us re-discover ourselves in ways least expected. This is our final day on these fantastic mountains. Later we celebrate our successful completion of trek with our Sherpa guides and porters who we’ve got to know so well & are now good friends. It’s a pleasure to end this wonderful trip on a happy note. We then slumber into blissful sleep.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
6-7 hrs
Max Elevation:
2,800m/9187ft
Fly back to Kathmandu
We get up early in the morning, enjoy our b/fast & get ready for the arrival of our aircraft for the flight back to Katmandu. On our touchdown at the Kathmandu airport, we will be met by our office reps and transferred to your hotel. Rest of your day is free to do your own things.
Meals:
Breakfast
Accommodation:
Hotel
Max Elevation:
1,350m/4,430ft
International departure
Thank you for joining us on this trek and it has been a pleasure getting to know you during this time. We hope this venture has enriched your experience with happy memories. Keep in touch and hope to hear from you soon. Bon voyage for a safe and pleasant trip home.
Meals:
Breakfast
Accommodation:
Hotel
Availability
Our trips are available on both group departure and private trip.
If you’re looking to join a group, click the Group Departures tab for details on dates, availability, and pricing. All our group departures are guaranteed to run once signed up.
If you prefer a private trip with your friends, family, or colleagues, please fill out the contact form in the Private Trip tab. We’ll organize a personalized trip for you on your preferred dates, accommodating any special requests you may have.
Ready to create your perfect adventure? Use our trip planner to customize your itinerary and schedule according to your preferences. We’re here to help you tailor every detail to fit your unique needs.
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Cost Inclusion
- All meals (B,L,D) on OPEN/CHOICE Menu whilst on trek with tea & coffee.
- Twin sharing accommodation at Kathmandu guest house or similar category for 2 nights with breakfast
- All required permits for trek (National Park & TIMS Card)
- Internal flights (KTM-LUKLA-KTM)
- Experienced local trek leader with 1:4 assistant guide to client ratio
- Full support crew with 1 porter for every 2 trekkers
- Kathmandu airport transfers and escorts on private vehicle
- All ground transportation as per mentioned in the itinerary on private vehicle
- Comprehensive first aid kit with high altitude medicines and oxygen cylinder for emergency purpose
- Duffel bag, Sleeping bag with liner and Down Jacket (Sleeping bag and down jacket must be returned after completion of trek)
- Staff equipment, insurance and allowances
- Trek completion certificate (Upon request)
- Group welcome dinner at Typical Nepalese Restaurant
Cost EXclusion
- International airfare, Visa and travel insurance
- Meals at Kathmandu
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu or on trek for any reason (Early arrival or delay, Early arrival from trek due to any reason)
- Personal expenses
- Gratuities for staff
Essential Information
Difficulty
Previous Experience
Best Season
Accommodation
Meals
Drinking Water
Group Size
Safety
Travel insurance
Baggage and Weight
Guides
Approach
Typical day
Group Joining / Private Trip
Passport, Visa and Entry Requirements
Other Information
The gear listed below is recommended for this trip. We encourage you to get all the equipment listed below for the trip and kindly ensure you check and try every piece of equipment. You can also buy or hire the same in Thamel,Kathmandu as they are available in the many trekking shops from branded to local manufacturers in Kathmandu.
Head gears:
- Sunhat
- Warm hat (should cover head & ear comfortably)
- Buffs X 2
- Sunglasses (High-quality, UV-blocking sunglasses with good all-around protection)
- Headlamp with spare batteries (200-300 lumens output)
Upper Body:
- Thermal or fleece base layer top X 2
- Short Sleeve Trekking shirts X 2
- Full Sleeve trekking shirts X 2
- Soft-shell jacket/fleece jacket X 2
- Light down jacket X 1
- Hardshell jacket with a hood X 1
- Insulated Down Jacket (provided by us at request)
Lower body:
- Thermal or fleece base layer bottom X 2
- Trekking trousers/pants X 2
- Warm trekking trousers X 1
- Hardshell pants (Non-insulated and waterproof)
- Insulated down pants (optional)
Underwear:
- 5 pairs of underwear (synthetic or wool fabrics only)
- 2 Sports Bra for women
Footwear:
- Waterproof Hiking Boots (GoreTex and Good Tread)
- Hiking socks X 4 pairs medium to heavy (synthetic and wool)
- Liner socks X 2
- Camp shoes to wear at the teahouse
Handwear:
- Softshell gloves X 1
- Heavyweight gloves X 1
Gears / Personal equipment:
- Daypack 30-35 litres with rain cover
- Waterproof Duffel bag (provided by us at request)
- Down Sleeping bag (-15 C rated) (provided by us at request)
- One-litre capacity water bottle X 2 (Nalgene & Thermos)
- Trekking poles
- Camera with charger or spare batteries
- Personal snacks and energy bars (you can buy them during the trek too)
- Laundry bag to keep the dirty clothes
- Padlock (Optional)
- Rain Poncho
- Large plastic bags to keep the clothes dry
- Extra clothes to wear in Kathmandu when you come back from the trek.
- Sandals or sneaker (To wear around camps and Kathmandu)
Toiletries and hygiene
- Quick-drying towel
- Small face towel
- Toothbrush &Toothpaste
- Face mask
- Water treatment tools or tablets (Recommended: Aquatabs)
- Soap and Shampoo/Dry shampoo (Smaller bottle)
- Face and body moisturizer
- Sunscreen SPF30+ and Lip balm SPF 30+
- Hand sanitiser/Antiseptic wipes
- Hygiene products
- Basic first aid kit (Pepto Bismol, Cipro (500mg tablets), Metronidazole, Hydration salts, Eye drops, Azithromycin (250mg tablets), Diamox (250mg tablets, approx. 20 total), and variety of standard painkillers including Tylenol, Ibuprofen, etc)
Documents
- Passport with visa and validity of 6 months after your trip completion
- 2 copies of passport-size photos (For sim card and travel purposes)
- Credit cards in case of emergencies
- Driving ID or any other ID in case of loss of your passport
- Travel Insurance and Flight tickets
Read more about the equipment list for the Everest base camp trek
Media Gallery
Reviews
See what our travelers are saying! Our reviews highlight the memorable experiences and exceptional service we offer. Read their stories to find out why our adventures are so highly praised. Write a review.
Everything Taken Care Of for a Great Trip
Everything Taken Care Of for a Great Trip
I feel I must write to thank Highland Expeditions for the trip of a lifetime.
All we had to do was turn up, walk and enjoy. Highland Expeditions offered everything as promised and took care of all arrangements. The booking procedures, the documentation and advice given helped us to prepare for the trip very well.
The boys were always extremely helpful. The team at Highland Expeditions went above and beyond to ensure a wonderful holiday experience.
Perfectly Organized Trek with Professional and Courteous Service
Perfectly Organized Trek with Professional and Courteous Service
I would like to thank Passang and his team at Highland Expeditions for organising and running the trek just so perfectly. Highland Expeditions was professional and courteous from the initial booking to the end of my trip. Very efficient and well informed that help me plan my trek appropriately.
Trip of a Lifetime with Unmatched Support and Care!
Trip of a Lifetime with Unmatched Support and Care!
I can’t say enough good things about traveling with Highland Expeditions! From communication and information before the trip, to getting me out of Lukla during bad weather after the trek, I felt really lucky to be with Highland Expeditions.
I made it to EBC with no altitude sickness, had an amazing local guide who helped me go at a slow pace and knew all about the region. I felt safe (as a solo young female traveler) the entire time, and reaching EBC was one of the highs of my life!
Passang organized a custom solo trip for me. He answered all of my questions before and during, did all of my airport transfers and set up a really great tour around Kathmandu with a private guide for one of my extra days.
More than anything though, I knew I went with the right tour company when all flights were cancelled to and from Lukla due to the weather after the trek. After only two days of being stuck, Passang got me the last spot on the last helicopter leaving for that day (only 2 helicopters had gone in days). Everyone else at my lodge was still stuck, some people for almost 8 days. To get a helicopter you HAVE to have someone with connections in Kathmandu and Passang made sure I got out and made my international flight.
This trip was the trip of a lifetime for me! Every day was filled with the most amazing views I’ve ever seen and I will remember it for the rest of my life! I think everyone should do this trip and use Highland Expeditions!
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