They say even the Yeti wants Wi-Fi these days, and if you’re trekking to Everest Base Camp, you’re probably wondering whether your phone can keep up with your steps or not. The good news? Yes. The internet during the Everest Base Camp trek is available, though it might not always be reliable. The main mobile providers in the region are Ncell and Nepal Telecom (NTC), with Ncell generally offering better data coverage as compared to the others. In Lukla and Namche, the connection is strong enough to use WhatsApp calls and Instagram. As you go higher to places like Gorakshep and EBC, the signal becomes weaker and more weather-dependent. Cloudy skies or heavy snow can disturb the network, and the connection quality might drop with the altitude, just like your energy levels.
Compared to other treks in Nepal like Annapurna Base Camp or Langtang, the internet at the Everest Base Camp trek is actually more accessible, thanks to growing tourism and infrastructure. However, while lower-altitude treks might offer more stable internet connections across the trail, Everest has a chance of facing unpredictable weather and tall, towering peaks surrounding it, which are most likely to block the signal. Still, you’ll find options like the Everest Link Wi-Fi card in teahouses along the trail, making it one of the better-connected high-altitude adventures in Nepal.
Exceptional team, seamless organization — Highland Expeditions made my Everest Base Camp trek unforgettable.
Exceptional team, seamless organization — Highland Expeditions made my Everest Base Camp trek unforgettable.
Incredible experience with Highland Expeditions on my Everest Base Camp trek. The company owner (Passang), our guides — Passang, Pemba, and the porters — were knowledgeable, patient, and genuinely cared about each trekker’s well-being. Every detail was handled smoothly from the moment we landed in Kathmandu and finished the trek and returned back safely.
Couldn’t have asked for a better team to walk this journey with. Highly recommend!
Fantastic Everest Three High Passes Trek—Highly Recommended!
Fantastic Everest Three High Passes Trek—Highly Recommended!
My overall experience of Everest three high passes trek with Highland Expeditions was fantastic. Everything on the trek and the logistics, I found to be of the highest quality and standard. The sleeping bag and down jacket they provided was amazing, keeping me warm even on the coldest nights. The trek was well planned and every detail was planned and executed with precision. I would definitely recommend Highland Expeditions to anyone I know who is interested in this experience.
Wi-Fi Connectivity and Availability Along the EBC Trek
| Location | Wi-Fi Availability | Wi-Fi Cost (Approx) | Signal Strength | Mobile Network | Network Type |
| Lukla (2,860 m) | Yes (teahouse Wi-Fi) | NPR 200-500 (USD1.50 – 3.75) | Good | Ncell, NTC | 3G/4G |
| Phakding (2,610 m) | Yes (limited) | NPR 300-500 USD 2.25 – 3.75 | Moderate | Ncell, NTC | 2G/3G |
| Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) | Yes (Everest Link, Lodges) | NPR 500-600 USD 3.75 – 4.50 | Strong | Ncell, NTC | 3G/4G |
| Tengboche (3860 m) | Yes (Teahouse Wi-Fi and limited Everest Link) | NPR 500-800 USD 3.75 – 6.00 | Weak-Moderate | NTC (limited), Ncell (rare) | 2G/3G |
| Dingboche (4,410 m) | Yes (Everest Link) | NPR 1000 USD 7.50 | Moderate | Mostly NTC (spotty) | 2G |
| Lobuche (4940 m) | Yes (Everest Link) | NPR 1000 USD 7.50 | Weak | Mogile signal unreliable | N/A |
| Gorakshep (5164 m) | Yes (Everest Link) | NPR 1000 USD 7.50 | Weak | Almost no signal | N/A |
| Everest Base Camp (5364 m) | No public Wi-Fi | N/A | No signal | No coverage | N/A |
Lodges and Teahouses
Most lodges and teahouses along the Everest Base Camp trek offer some form of internet service, usually through paid Wi-Fi like Everest Link or local router-based connections. Many teahouses sell Everest Link cards for around NPR 500 to 1,200, depending on the location and volume of the data. The biggest issue is if too many trekkers use the internet at the same time, then it can cause a serious slowdown, especially in the evening. At higher altitudes like Lobuche and Gorakshep, Wi-Fi is generally the only way to connect, but it’s unstable and sometimes works only during off-peak hours. Even if Wi-Fi is available, don’t expect smooth video calls- it’s mostly good for sending messages and checking updates.
Everest Link Wi-Fi System
Everest Link is one of the widely used Wi-Fi providers in the Khumbu region, covering major villages along the Everest Base Camp trek. It was especially designed for high-altitude areas where mobile signals are weak and unavailable. You can buy an Everest Link Wi-Fi card at teahouses or shops in places like Namche, Dingboche, and Lobuche. Prices range according to the data you purchase, and setup is simple, just connect to the “Everest Link” network, enter the login code from the card, and you’re online. Speeds are good enough for browsing or messaging, but can slow down if the number of users increases. It’s one of the best methods to remain connected above 4,000 meters, especially when mobile networks disappear.
What is Everest Link Wi-Fi
Everest Link was established in 2014 with the target of bringing internet connectivity to the remote Himalayan villages of the Khumbu region, including the Everest Base Camp trek route. It is owned and operated by Everest Link Pvt. Ltd., a Nepali telecom company that created a satellite-based Wi-Fi system to help trekkers, locals, and businesses in high-altitude areas where the mobile network fails. Today, Everest Link is the largest internet service provider above 3,000 meters in Nepal, connecting more than 200 villages and lodges in the region. Its network of satellite towers and hotspots provides Wi-Fi through a prepaid card system, which is more helpful where 3G or 4G is not available or absent.
To use Everest Link Wi-Fi, you need to purchase a Wi-Fi access card, available at most teahouses, lodges, or local shops along the trail. No passport or official documents are required, just buy the card with cash (in Nepalese rupees). The card includes a username and a password, which you enter after connecting to the “Everest Link” network on your device or phone. The services are prepaid, with packages like 100 MB for NPR 500, 500 MB for NPR 1,000, and 1 GB for NPR 2,000. Activation is done within a second once you log in, and the service usually works best when the crowd is smaller, as bandwidth is shared among users. It’s one of the best options for staying connected in one of the world’s most remote trekking routes.
Buying a SIM Card in Nepal
Getting a SIM card in Nepal is easy and affordable, especially for travelers who want to keep connected with their loved ones during the trek. You can buy one at Tribhuvan International Airport or at mobile shops around the city. The main providers are Ncell, NTC, and Smartcell, all of them offering prepaid tourist SIM cards with data and call packages. It’s the best way to access the internet and make calls and chats while exploring.
Where to Buy?
1. Airport
At Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, you can easily buy a SIM card after arriving at the arrival hall (just after the immigration and after collecting your baggage). You’ll find official counters for Ncell, Nepal Telecom (NTC), and now Smart Cell (rebranded to Smart Telecom). Ncell offers a Tourist SIM card for free, but you need to load it with data or call packages to start using it. Nepal Telecom also provides tourist SIMs, but sometimes charges a small activation fee of around NPR 110 (USD 0.8). Smart Cell also sells SIM cards for around NPR 99 (USD 0.75), which includes 200MB of data, 10 minutes of call time, and 10 SMS. Airport counters usually offer better service and fewer issues than other places, making them a useful and secure option for travelers.
2. Local Markets
If you miss getting a SIM card at the airport, you can easily buy one on local markets around Kathmandu valley, especially in areas like Thamel, New Road, and Durbar Marg. These areas have many authorized mobile shops for Ncell, Nepal Telecom (NTC), and Smart Cell. The process is simple; just bring your documents, and the staff will help you fill out a registration form, and your SIM will be activated within 5 to 10 minutes. Prices are the same as the airport – Ncell often gives free tourist SIMs with recharge, while Ncell and Smart Cell can cost around NPR 100. Shops in Namche Bazaar and Lukla may also sell top-up cards or limited SIM services, but buying in Kathmandu is easier and more reliable.
3. Authorized Vendors and Distributors
Besides airports and local shops, you can also buy SIM cards from authorized vendors and distributors of Ncell, Nepal Telecom (NTC), and Smart Cell across major cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Lalitpur. These vendors are officially registered and provide trustworthy service, ensuring proper SIM registration and activation. You’ll need some documents, though many use digital ID verification nowadays. Prices are standard – tourists’ SIMs from Ncell may be free with top-up, while NTC and Smart Cell SIMs typically cost NPR 100-150. Authorized vendors are a good option if you want secure and the best services, especially for buying data packs, getting SIM replacements, or solving issues during your stay.
Documents Required
- 1 original passport for identity verification and 1 photocopy, it is attached to your SIM registration form and stored in the telecom provider’s database.
- 1 passport-sized photo, carry a printed one, or some shops take a live photo, which costs around NPR 40-50 per photo.
- Visa page (photocopy or original), sometimes they may require it, especially at NTC counters
- Filled SIM registration form, provided by the vendors, you just need to fill in basic details like name, passport number, and signature
Tip: Keep your passport safe when buying a SIM, especially in official counters or local shops.
Recommended SIM Card Providers in Nepal
1. NTC
Nepal Telecom (NTC) is a government-owned telecom company, established in 2004, and one of the most trusted SIM providers in Nepal. Known for its wide network coverage, especially in rural and remote areas, NTC is the best option for trekkers heading towards the Everest region and beyond. It offers affordable call and data packages, making it popular among locals and tourists. NTC provides 2G, 3 G, and 4G services, depending on location and coverage. NTC also offers prepaid and postpaid SIM cards, usually costing around NPR 100, with several data and voice packs available for top-up. With a strong government backing, it’s considered one of the safest and most dependable choices for communication in Nepal.
2. Ncell
Another famous SIM provider is Ncell. It is a privately owned telecom company in Nepal, established in 2004, and one of the most widely used SIM providers in the country. It is known for strong coverage in urban and tourist areas, including popular trekking routes like the Everest Base Camp trail up to Namche, the Mardi Himal trek, and many more. Ncell generally provides faster data speeds and more stable 3G/4G connections in lower regions. It also offers both prepaid and postpaid SIM cards, and recharge packages starting from NPR 500 – 1,000, depending on usage. Ncell is trusted by millions and has a strong connection across cities, towns, and trekking gateways.
3. Smartcell
Smart Cell is a privately-owned third-largest mobile operator in Nepal, launched in 2008. While it offers affordable data and call packages in city areas like Kathmandu and Pokhara, its network coverage is limited and does not extend well into remote or high-altitude regions like the EBC trek. It only provides prepaid SIM cards starting from around NPR 99, with occasional promotional data bundles, but no best service in the Khumbu region. However, Smart Cell is a budget-friendly option for travelers looking for short-term mobile use.
How to Activate and Buy Data Packages
| Steps | NCELL | NTC | Smart Cell |
| Activation Steps | Step 1: Insert the SIM into the phone Step 2: Restart the phone Step 3: Auto activation within minutes Step 4: Dial *901# to check balance | Step 1: Insert SIM Step 2: Restart the phone Step 3: Activate in 4-7 minutes Step 4: Dial *9# to confirm Step 5: Dial *400# to check balance | Step 1: Insert SIM Step 2: Restart the phone Step 3: Auto or dial *134 # to activate Step 4: Check with *123# |
| How to Buy Data Packages | Dial *17123# or use the Ncell app | Dial *1415# or use the Nepal Telecom App | Dial *141# or use the Smart Cell App |
| Help/Support Number | 9005 (toll-free number) | 1498 (toll-free number) | 4242 (toll-free number) |
Difficulties in Maintaining Consistent Connectivity during the EBC Trek
Staying connected during the Everest Base Camp trek is not always easy. As you move higher, the mobile signal becomes weaker, and Wi-Fi becomes slower or unavailable. Frequent changes in weather, power cuts, and the high number of users in teahouses can also affect the internet speed and stability. Even the best networks like Ncell or Everest Link may not work well all the time, so it’s best to be prepared for limited or no connection in different parts of the trail.
Remote Setting
Staying connected during the EBC trek is not always easy. The region’s geographical condition plays a major role; the trail crosses through steep mountains, deep valleys, and areas far from any major towns or transport hubs. Many villages are a day’s far away by foot, and the entire route lies at high altitudes ranging from 2,800 to over 5,300 meters, where regular access to services and supplies is limited. The Himalayan peaks like Mount Everest, Lhotse, and AmaDablam, rising above 7,000-8,000 meters, block radio and mobile signals, while narrow valleys create dead zones where connectivity drops quickly. Due to seasonal weather challenges like snow and landslides, the geography makes a reliable connection a tough goal.
Lacking in Technological Infrastructure
One of the biggest challenges in maintaining internet access during the Everest Base Camp trek is the lack of proper technological infrastructure. Most of the villages along the route do not have access to fiber-optic cables and totally rely on satellite connections, which are slower, expensive, and easily affected by weather. There are a few telecom towers in the region, which are built at lower elevations like Lukla and Namche Bazaar. Electricity in many areas is supplied through solar panels or small hydropower, which may not support continuous internet during cloudy days or winter. Sometimes, even the main internet provider, “Everest Link,” can only offer speeds between 128 kbps to 512 kbps in higher altitudes.
Compatibility Issues with Foreign Devices
Many trekkers face compatibility issues when trying to use Nepali SIM cards or networks during the trek. Some international phones that are bought in the U.S, Canada, or Japan may be locked to a specific carrier or may not support the network bands used by Nepal providers like Ncell, NTC, or Smart Cell. Nepal uses GSM technology with 900 MHz and 2100 MHz frequency bands for 3G and 4G services. If a device does not support these bands, then it may not detect the signal. Additionally, eSIM technology is not yet widely supported in Nepal, so travellers relying totally on eSIM might not be able to connect. Before arriving, it’s important to check if your phone is unlocked and compatible with Nepal’s GSM frequency or not.
How to Leverage the Most from the Least?
When the internet is limited or unstable during the Everest Base Camp trek, it’s better to prepare in advance. One of the best ways to prepare is to download offline maps, such as Maps.me or AllTrails, before starting your journey. These works can guide you through trails even in dead zones without data or Wi-Fi. You should also save digital copies of trekking permits, hotel bookings, emergency contacts, and offline travel guides in your phone or cloud storage. For communication, use low-data apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, or Messenger Lite, which will help you a lot. Video calls should be done when the connection is strong because they consume more data.
To keep your device running in remote areas where electricity is less available, carry a high-capacity power bank of at least 10,000 to 20,000 mAh. These can charge a smartphone 2 to 4 times, depending on your device. Look for power banks with dual USB ports and fast-charging features, so that you can charge multiple devices at once. Also, switch your phone to battery saver mode, decrease screen brightness, and turn off background apps to increase battery life. With a bit of planning, you can stay informed, navigate safely, and stay connected, even in the remote corners of the Himalayas.
Pros and Cons of Staying Connected during the Everest Base Camp Trek
Staying connected during the Everest Base Camp trek has many advantages. It allows you to stay in touch with family and friends, share updates, and access emergency services if needed. In some of the areas where mobile signals or Wi-Fi are available, you can use weather apps to check the condition, stay updated on route changes, or contact your guide or travel company. Many trekkers also use the internet to upload photos, track progress via GPS apps, or even attend short meetings. For solo travelers or first-time trekkers, staying connected can increase your safety, confidence, and help to navigate accurately.
However, there are also drawbacks. Continuous connectivity can distract you from the peaceful and thrilling experience of trekking in the Himalayas. Wi-Fi is often slow, shared, and expensive, costing up to NPR 1,200 for 1 GB with limited speed between 128-512 kbps at higher altitudes. Upload may fail, calls may not connect, and power sources may not be available. Trying to stay online while trekking may also reduce your mental rest and digital detox (taking a break from devices to relax and focus on the journey). Plus, depending too much on internet-based tools can be dangerous when internet service is not available, especially in such remote places. It’s important to maintain a balance between staying connected for safety and disconnecting to truly enjoy the journey.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the internet during the Everest Base Camp trek is available but limited, especially as you go higher. With providers like Ncell, NTC, and Everest Link, you can always stay connected in villages like Lukla and Namche Bazaar, but with slower speeds and unreliable connections beyond that. Buying a local SIM in Kathmandu, downloading offline maps, and carrying a power bank can help you on the journey. Wi-Fi is usually prepared and shared, with the price rising as altitude increases. If you’re looking to stay safe, informed, and in touch, use the internet and plan ahead, but also be ready to disconnect from the network and enjoy the beauty of the mountains, because sometimes the best connection is with nature, not the internet.
