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Overview
Map & Itinerary
Trip Highlights
- Journey to the base camp of world's highest mountain and Kalapathar
- Tread on path of Sir Edumnd Hillary and Tenzing Norgay
- Lively villages of legendary Sherpas
- 17 days of pure adventure with full support crew
Everest Base Camp Trek Overview
The most popular trek in Nepal in the whole 2,400km stretch of the Himalayas, Everest Base Camp Trek offers spectacular sceneries, real Himalayan experiences along with the extraordinary culture of the Sherpa community, all the while trekking the foothills of the Mt. Everest [8,848m/29,029ft]. The trail goes over [5,000m/16,400ft] for last few days before reaching Everest Base Camp but the trek isn’t as strenuous as imagined and does not require prior trekking experience while promising a fulfilling journey. Adding to the fun-filled trek, the panoramic views, monasteries, culture and the mountain flight to Lukla are few of the highlights of this trip. Experience the grandeur of Mount Everest [8,848m/29,029ft] from up-close along with the views of many other snow-capped mountains on Everest Base Camp Trek. The journey to Everest Base Camp got its limelight when Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa climbed Everest for the first time in 1953 and ever since this has been the preferred choice for beginner climbers.
Your journey to Everest base camp gets into gear with a warm-up tour of the ancient valley of Kathmandu before we embark on a fantastic mountain flight to the legendary airport built with the help of the famous mountaineer we all know as the late Sir Edmund Hillary, for whose namesake this famous trail of the Everest Base Camp was born. On touchdown at Lukla airport, we meet our senior guide and the other crew members, sort out our equipment and sooner than later, we hit these famous trails to the foothills of the king of all peaks – Mt. Everest. We begin our hike slow & easy by the banks of the clean waters of the Dudh Kosi River, into the soul of Sherpa country on to the thespian high alpine scenery beyond the horizons. We get off the primary trails sometimes and stroll into friendly villages, including the hustling bazaar of Namche. The village towns of the Khumbu, Namche Bazaar and Dingboche are an ideal spot to get well acclimatized; before we make a beeline on routes used by famous mountaineers to reach Everest Base Camp. We will spend 2 nights at Namche Bazar [3,450m/11,319ft] and another 2 nights at Dingboche [4,412m/14,475ft] for proper acclimatization and to allow our body to adapt with the high altitude.
This trip is not only about Everest Base Camp; we also get the chance to climb Kala Pattar at (5545m) for fantastic views of Mount Everest. Highland Expeditions is proud to offer what we are really sure is the best trek available to Base Camp…in the sublime Khumbu region of Nepal.
Why trek with Highland Expeditions?
At, Highland Expeditions it is our aim to provide a wonderful holiday in our part of the world and ensure that our clients enjoy the holiday as much as possible with minimized risks and the worry-free trip should it be monetary, physical or emotional. Read below to find out what makes your journey to Everest base camp different with Highland Expeditions:
- All the logistical arrangements required for the trip will be done prior to your arrival providing you with a hassle-free trip
- On the trek, you will be led by experienced and medical trained guide/leader with a high staff ratio.
- Considering the safety of our utmost priority, all our Everest Base Camp trek groups are backed up by Supplementary oxygen system, oximeter and medical kit be it a group of 1 participant or 15 participants.
- An all-inclusive trip to Everest Base Camp, on a trek, all meals and accommodation are included and we provide you with an option of OPEN/CHOICE menu meaning you can choose your meal straight from the menu.
- Our itineraries are also devised keeping every aspect in mind such as acclimatization, good campsites, real-life experiences etc.
- We also provide a sleeping bag, down jacket and waterproof duffel bag to each participant. Lastly, Highland Expeditions has been awarded as a trekking company of the year 2018/19 in Nepal by Travel and Hospitality Awards, USA.
Is this trek for you?
Grade Challenging Physical Rating 5-6 Total Duration 16N/17 Days Trekking Duration 12N/13 Days Maximum Elevation 5,545m/18,193ft at Kalapathar Everest Base Camp is a 17 days trek reaching up to a maximum elevation of [5,545m/18,193ft] at Kalapathar and [5,364m/17,559ft] at Everest base camp while the maximum elevation for overnight is [5,140m/16,864ft] at Gorekshep for one night. Your trek will start from Lukla [2,800m/9187ft] and you reach an elevation of [5000m/16,400ft] in eight days including two rest and acclimatization days at Namche and Dingboche. Physically challenging due to the higher elevation, involves daily trekking of approximately 6–8 hours. No previous trekking experience is required but you should be moderately fit and must enjoy walking and adaptable to high altitude conditions.
Short in time and yet want to trek to Everest Base Camp? Check our other Everest Treks such as Everest Base Camp Trek 14 Days or Everest Base Camp Heli Trek 12 Days
Outline Itinerary
- Day 01 : Arrival in Kathmandu [1,350m/4,430ft]
- Day 02 : Exploration of Kathmandu and trek preparation [1,350m/4,430ft]
- Day 03 : Fly to Lukla and trek to Phakding [2,600m/8,531ft]
- Day 04 : Trek to Namche Bazar [3,450m/11,319ft]
- Day 05 : Rest and acclimatization day [3,450m/11,319ft]
- Day 06 : Trek to Deboche [3,720 m/12,205ft]
- Day 07 : Trek to Dingboche [4,412m/14,475ft]
- Day 08 : Acclimatization hike to Nagartsang Peak [5,083m/16,625ft]
- Day 09 : Trek to Lobuche [4,910m/16,109ft]
- Day 10 : Trek to E.B.C [5,364m/17,559ft] and retrace back to Gorekshep [5,140m/16,864ft]
- Day 11 : Hike up to Kalapathar [5,545m/18,193ft] and retrace back to Pheriche
- Day 12 : Trek to Phortse [3,840m/12,598ft]
- Day 13 : Trek to Namche Bazar [3,450m/11,319ft]
- Day 14 : Trek to Lukla [2,800m/9187ft]
- Day 15 : Fly back to Kathmandu [1,350m/4,430ft]
- Day 16 : In Kathmandu [1,350m/4,430ft]
- Day 17 : International departure
Important Note: 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 travelling in remote mountainous regions, we cannot guarantee that we will not deviate from it. Weather or 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.
Elevation Chart in Meter:
Note: Maximum elevation of each particular day has been put into the graph, the overnight elevation may be lower than as shown in the graph.
Dates & Price
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Day 01 - Arrival in Kathmandu [1,350m/4,430ft]
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 and at eventide relish a welcome dinner at typical Nepalese restaurant.
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Day 02 - Exploration of Kathmandu and trek preparation [1,350m/4,430ft]
Today we explore Kathmandu on an organized sightseeing tour. This will include a visit to the Boudhanath Stupa, one of the biggest Buddhist shrines in the world. We also visit Pashupatinath, located on the banks of the holy Bagmati River and home to the most famous Hindu temple in the country. Here we will see Hindu holy men (sadhus) and pilgrims performing ritual bathing, and occasionally, funeral pyres burning on the ghats. The cremation site here is used by the royal family and also for the simple man living next door. Your early afternoon will be free to relax in the hotel garden or visit Thamel for some curious shopping. You will be given your trek departure orientation in the evening by your trek leader at hotel lobby.
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Day 03 - Fly to Lukla and trek to Phakding [2,600m/8,531ft]
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
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Day 04 - Trek to Namche Bazar [3,450m/11,319ft]
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. Overall elevation gain tonight from previous night: 850m/2,788ft -
Day 05 - Rest and acclimatization day [3,450m/11,319ft]
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, there are a number of options: perhaps a hike up to Everest view hotel, Khumjung and Khunde, or walk towards Thame (3810m) above the beautiful Bhote Khola river valley, or a visit to the National Park Headquarters to see the interesting displays of Sherpa lifestyle and culture. There is also a mountaineering display and details of the park’s flora and fauna. Your guides will be on hand to offer advice and escort you on your walks. -
Day 06 - Trek to Deboche [3,720 m/12,205ft]
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 monastery 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 Deboche. Overall elevation gain tonight from previous night: 270m/886ft
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Day 07 - Trek to Dingboche [4,412m/14,475ft]
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
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Day 08 - Acclimatization hike to Nagartsang Peak [5,083m/16,625ft]
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.
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Day 09 - Trek to Lobuche [4,910m/16,109ft]
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 -
Day 10 - Trek to E.B.C [5,364m/17,559ft] and retrace back to Gorekshep [5,140m/16,864ft]
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 -
Day 11 - Hike up to Kalapathar [5,545m/18,193ft] 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 (-10 to -14 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. -
Day 12 - Trek to Phortse [3,840m/12,598ft]
Today we descend down, we revert on our previous route to Pangboche, we will descend from Pangboche and move through series of ups and downs to Phortse. Once again the views of the mountains are magnificent. Phortse can be seen across the valley, a picturesque village set in a patchwork of stone-walled fields. From the stupa we descend on a series of switchback trails to the Dudh Kosi River, 300m below, at Phortse Bridge where we spend our overnight -
Day 13 - Trek to Namche Bazar [3,450m/11,319ft]
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. -
Day 14 - Trek to Lukla [2,800m/9187ft]
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. -
Day 15 - Fly back to Kathmandu [1,350m/4,430ft]
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. -
Day 16 - In Kathmandu [1,350m/4,430ft]
Free and easy day to spend, perhaps doing shopping or rest at hotel’s beautiful court-yard. Please do not hesitate to let us know if you would like to extend your stay. Kindly email us for more details on extensions. -
Day 17 - 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.
Trip Info Media Gallery ReviewsGiven below are the fixed departure dates for this trip. If the dates don’t match with your schedule, then kindly let us know and we will arrange a private trip customizing the departure dates suitable for you. The cost below is per person on group joining basis excluding the international flights. Group discount is available for booking of two or more than two persons. Kindly contact us if you have a bigger group for the discount.
- 2019 Departures
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Trip Start Date Trip End Date Price Status 09 May, 2019 25 May, 2019 USD 1700 Available Book Now 19 May, 2019 04 Jun, 2019 USD 1700 Available Book Now 12 Sep, 2019 28 Sep, 2019 USD 1700 Available Book Now 26 Sep, 2019 12 Oct, 2019 USD 1700 Available Book Now 03 Oct, 2019 19 Oct, 2019 USD 1700 Available Book Now 12 Oct, 2019 28 Oct, 2019 USD 1700 Available Book Now 17 Oct, 2019 02 Nov, 2019 USD 1700 Available Book Now 26 Oct, 2019 11 Nov, 2019 USD 1700 Available Book Now 01 Nov, 2019 17 Nov, 2019 USD 1700 Available Book Now 07 Nov, 2019 23 Nov, 2019 USD 1700 Available Book Now 14 Nov, 2019 30 Nov, 2019 USD 1700 Available Book Now 21 Nov, 2019 07 Dec, 2019 USD 1700 Available Book Now - 2020 Departures
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Trip Start Date Trip End Date Price Status 12 Mar, 2020 28 Mar, 2020 USD 1700 Available Book Now 19 Mar, 2020 04 Apr, 2020 USD 1700 Available Book Now 26 Mar, 2020 11 Apr, 2020 USD 1700 Available Book Now 02 Apr, 2020 18 Apr, 2020 USD 1700 Available Book Now 09 Apr, 2020 25 Apr, 2020 USD 1700 Available Book Now 16 Apr, 2020 02 May, 2020 USD 1700 Available Book Now 23 Apr, 2020 09 May, 2020 USD 1700 Available Book Now 30 Apr, 2020 16 May, 2020 USD 1700 Available Book Now 07 May, 2020 23 May, 2020 USD 1700 Available Book Now 14 May, 2020 30 May, 2020 USD 1700 Available Book Now 10 Sep, 2020 26 Sep, 2020 USD 1700 Available Book Now 17 Sep, 2020 03 Oct, 2020 USD 1700 Available Book Now 24 Sep, 2020 10 Oct, 2020 USD 1700 Available Book Now 01 Oct, 2020 17 Oct, 2020 USD 1700 Available Book Now 08 Oct, 2020 24 Oct, 2020 USD 1700 Available Book Now 15 Oct, 2020 31 Oct, 2020 USD 1700 Available Book Now 22 Oct, 2020 07 Nov, 2020 USD 1700 Available Book Now 29 Oct, 2020 14 Nov, 2020 USD 1700 Available Book Now 05 Nov, 2020 21 Nov, 2020 USD 1700 Available Book Now 12 Nov, 2020 28 Nov, 2020 USD 1700 Available Book Now 19 Nov, 2020 05 Dec, 2020 USD 1700 Available Book Now 26 Nov, 2020 12 Dec, 2020 USD 1700 Available Book Now 10 Dec, 2020 26 Dec, 2020 USD 1700 Available Book Now 22 Dec, 2020 07 Jan, 2021 USD 1700 Available Book Now
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I was very happy that I booked with Highland Expeditions, they went above and beyond in assisting me, especially Passang. I heard so many bad stories about other companies from fellow trekkers along the way but Highland Expeditions were great.
Thanks Guys, I made it, EBC & Mt. Kalapathar
My first time in Nepal and it was surely one of the best trip of my life and all this was possible only due to the expertise and great team of Highland Expeditions Nepal. Thank you for your great hospitality and this is only the start of great adventures ahead.
Thank you very much Highland Expeditions and entire trekking crew for making our journey to the Everest Base Camp a memorable one. The hospitality we received from Nepali people and by our guides in particular was incredible. We were well looked right after our arrival until the departure. Well done Highland Expeditions and i will be back.
An amazing 2 weeks walking holidays in Nepal with the fantastic team of Highland Expeditions. Thank you for making it brilliant and couldn’t speak more highly of the service you have provided.
Enjoyed the trek very much. The guide and team pay attention with a smile and they know the trail perfectly. Thanks a lot for everything.
Amazing trip from the start to the end. Team and guides are very professional, kind and attentive always. We really enjoyed this experience.
I definitely will recommend Highland Expeditions.
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