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Everest Base Camp Trek Elevation: A Detailed Guide

10 August 2024
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elevation of everest base camp trek

Everest Base Camp Trek is among the most popular Nepal Trekking trips, attracting many worldwide trekkers. The elevation of Everest Base Camp is roughly 5,364 meters (17,598 feet) above sea level, making it a challenging yet rewarding destination for trekkers worldwide. Everest Base Camp Trek altitude refers to the heights you'll reach during the trek. This could range from 2,800 meters (9,186 feet) at the starting point, Lukla, to 5,364 meters at the Base Camp. It's a journey of moving uphill, which requires fitness and enough acclimatization.

Situated at the base of the mighty Mount Everest, the Everest Base Camp Trek attracts hundreds of adventure seekers from around the globe every year. The challenging nooks and corners of the trekking routes and the intriguing elevation of treks like Everest Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Makalu Base Camp Trek, Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek make it more appealing to extreme adventure lovers.

In this blog, we will discuss in details the facts related with Elevation on the Everest Base Camp Trek.

Facts about the Elevation of Everest Base Camp

There are two base camps for Everest: South and North Base Camps. The South Base Camp of Everest is in Nepal, while the North remains in Tibet. The elevation of South Everest Base Camp is 5.364 meters, which is 17,598 feet above sea level at 28°0′26″N latitude and 86 ° 51′34″E longitudes. Similarly, the North Everest Base Camp sits at an altitude of 5,515 meters in Tibet.

Places

Elevation

Kathmandu

1,300m/ 4265.092 ft

Lukla

2,800m/ 9186.352 ft

Phakding

2,640m/ 8661.417 ft

Namche Bazaar

3,430m/ 11253.28 ft

Khumjung Village

3,790m/ 12434.38 ft

Tengboche

3,867m/ 12687 ft

Dingboche

4,410m/ 13484.25 ft

Lobuche

4,930m/ 16174.54 ft

Gorak Shep

5,140m/ 16863.52 ft

Kalapatthar

5,555m/ 18225.07 ft

posing at ebc

Air Pressure and Temperature at Everest Base Camp

The air pressure in Everest Base Camp region is considerably high. The average air pressure at the South Base Camp is about 401 mmHg, aka 53 kPa, which is around 23 kPa more than the normal air pressure. As the air pressure goes high, the temperature gets low in the Everest Base Camp region. The average temperature of the base camp is around -17 degrees Celsius in the winter. The sunny seasons feature temperatures at around 8 to 10 degrees celsius.

Changes in Elevation in Everest Base Camp Trek

Everest Base Camp Trek features a settlement at the world's highest altitude. The climate is harsh, with high air pressure and low and freezing temperatures. However, several factors have impacted the region's changes. Even the elevation of Everest Base Camp has changed over time due to various factors, including tectonic activity and climate change.

The altitude of Mount Everest also has increased by around a meter in the course of time. Various reports have cited that the current elevation of the mountain is 8849 meters. The previous elevation was 8848 meters.

It is considered that tectonic activity is the main reason for the elevation changes in the past years. Reports show that the Indian and Eurasian plates converge at a rate of about 2.5 centimeters per year. And it has made a direct impact on the creation of the Himalayan range, including the increase in the elevation of the Everest Region.
Climate change is another significant reason the elevation soared in the Everest region. See the details of trekking trips in Everest Trek region.

Everest Base Camp Trek Elevation Profile

The Everest Base Camp Trek is not just a journey across distances but also a rollercoaster traversing across a variety of elevations. For a successful and enjoyable experience, understanding the elevation gain is crucial.

In this section, we delve into the elevation profile of the Everest Base Camp Trek along with key landmarks on each section of the trek, allowing you to understand what to expect each day during your Everest Base Camp Trek adventure and prepare accordingly.

Lukla to Phakding

The beginning of the trekking to Everest Base Camp is marked by a scenic flight to Lukla, the gateway to Everest. The altitude at Lukla is high in itself, especially for people coming from low-altitude regions. Already starting at an elevation of 2,840 m (9,317 ft) in Lukla, the Everest Base Camp Trek is truly a trek for adventurers. The initial leg of the Everest Base Camp Trek begins with a gentle descent as the trekkers make their way to Phakding at 2,610 m (8,563 ft). This allows the trekkers to ease into the rhythm of trekking.

Followed by the gentle descent alongside the Dudh Koshi River, the final part of this section features a slight ascent from Ghat to Phakding giving you a scenic introduction to the diverse landscapes of Sagarmatha National Park after an elevation loss of 230 m.

Phakding to Namche Bazaar

This section of the trek introduces you to the first major ascent as you make your way towards the bustling Namche Bazaar from Phakding. Starting from an elevation of 2,610 m, you conclude at 3,440 m (11,286 ft) at Namche Bazaar which means an elevation gain of more than 800 meters. Following this significant gain, you will rest and acclimatize at Namche Bazaar to prepare for the journey ahead.

The next day you will have rest and acclimatization day at Namche. You can explore the local market, museum and even hike to Everest Hotel View. This hike takes you to 3,880 m (12,729 ft) and brings you back to Namche Bazaar giving your body a taste of the high altitude.

Namche Bazaar to Tengboche

With necessary acclimatization at Namche Bazaar (3,440 m), a spiritual ascent commences featuring more substantial elevation gain as you make your way to Tengboche. This leg of the trek takes you to Kenjoma. From Kenjoma, you will come across a gentle descent to reach Phunke Tenga along the dramatic yet vibrant trail adorned with rhododendron forests. After ascending around 420 meters, you will reach the picturesque village of Tengboche.

This village located at 3,860 m (12,664 ft) is home to the famous Tengboche Monastery where you get a spiritual respite amidst the adventurous journey. You will also get spectacular views of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Everest from Tengboche.

Tengboche to Dingboche

This segment begins with a gentle descent towards Pangboche where you come across suspension bridges again. A mild ascent from there takes you to Somare after crossing the tree line marking an important elevation gain in the Everest Base Camp Trek. From Samare to Dingboche, the landscapes transform into rugged and barren ones signifying the high altitude.

From Tengboche at 3,860 m to Dingboche at 4,410 m (14,468 ft), you will cover an elevation gap of 550 meters. Being a significant gain, Dingboche also serves as a crucial acclimatization point on the Everest Base Camp trek.

Being at Dingboche, you can go for a high-altitude acclimatization hike to Nangkartshang Peak at 5,083 m (16,676 ft) giving you a taste of the adventure that awaits you. The suggestion is to ascend slowly as you will be going more than 600 m higher.

You will witness breathtaking panoramas of Lhotse (8,516m), Nuptse (7,861m), Cho Oyu (8,188m), Ama Dablam (6,812m), Peak 38 (7,590m), Makalu (8,481m), Kusum Kanguru (6,367), and Baruntse (7,163m) and make your way back to Dingboche.

Dingboche to Lobuche

The segment from Dingboche to Lobuche starts with an ascent alongside the Khumbu Khola towards Thukla and finally reaches the Thukla Pass at 4,830 m (15,846 ft). The experience here is humbling as the Thukla Pass features many memorials of those who have perished on Everest and this segment serves as a reminder of the power of nature.

With thinned-out vegetation and thinner air, you reach Lobuche at 4,910 m (16,109 ft) where you get glimpses of the Khumbu glacier. The total elevation gain from Dingboche (4,410 m) to Lobuche is 500 meters.While at Lobuche during your final rest before preparing to conquer the EBC, you can enjoy the majestic views of Nuptse, Changri, Pumori, Lho La, and more.

Lobuche to Gorakshep and Everest Base Camp

The ultimate test of endurance and stamina begins with your ascent towards Gorkshep at 5,140 m (16,863 ft) covering an elevation gap of 230 meters from Lobuche. At Gorakshep, you start seeing majestic views of the Khumbu Glacier and Khumbu Icefall.
From Gorakshep, you follow an undulating, fluctuating, and rocky trail taking you all the way to the Everest Base Camp at 5,364 m (17,598 ft). The feeling of standing at the base of the highest peak in the world is truly unmatched.

The total elevation gain for this day is 454 meters. However, you return back to Gorakshep and spend the night there, so your day is full of ascents and descents.

Gorakshep to Kalapathhar

This is optional. The journey from Gorakshep to Kalapathhar makes a usual appearance in the itinerary for Everest Base Camp Trek. This is even more challenging as you will be going higher than the Everest Base Camp. Following the steep uphill and rocky trail, you reach Kalapathhar at 5,555 m (18,225 ft) from Gorakshep. During this, you cover an elevation gain of 415 meters to get rewarded with gorgeous views from this vantage point.

On the same day, you will experience a massive elevation loss as you retrace your steps back to Pheriche at 4,240 m (13,911 ft).

Return Journey and Elevation Loss

The return journey descends in terms of elevation, and it poses no risk to your health. The elevation loss is quick as you go to Pheriche (4,240 m) from Kalapathhar (5,555 m) and then to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) followed by Lukla (2,840 m). You will return through the same trail, and it allows you to reflect on your entire journey while experiencing some more of the local culture and cuisine.

The elevation profile mentioned in this blog is based on the standard itinerary of the Everest Base Camp trek. It might vary depending on your itinerary and the route chosen as there is more than one way to reach the Everest Base Camp.

ready to conquer ebc

Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour Elevation

The Everest Base Camp Trek requires physical and mental fitness and tremendous effort to ascend successfully to the height of 5,364 m (17,598 ft). However, trekking is not the only way to reach the Everest Base Camp. The easier and hassle-free option can be a helicopter tour to EBC.

The helicopter tour to EBC starts from Kathmandu and will land in Lukla at an elevation of 2,800 m (9,187 ft). From Kathmandu, you will fly for 45 minutes over the scenic foothills and mountain ranges, leading you to Lukla. Regardless of the difficulties of the Everest Base Camp elevation, the helicopter refuels at Lukla and takes off shortly towards Everest Base Camp. Flying over the Khumbu region lets you enjoy the spectacular view of the EBC trekking route.

The helicopter then flies over the base camp, stopping at Kala Patthar at an altitude of 5,545 m (18,192 ft) for a short while. Then, the flight descends toward Lukla and lands to refuel again. After refueling, you are taken back to Kathmandu. Generally, the flight to Everest Base Camp from Kathmandu is completed in a day. Although it is convenient to travel to Everest Base Camp by flight, it will certainly not allow you to have a closer experience with nature. However, the Helicopter tour to Everest Base Camp can save you time and effort.

Difficulty due to Elevation in Everest Base Camp Trek

The Everest Base Camp Trek provides you with breathtaking landscapes and unparalleled experiences but also causes difficulty in your trek due to its high altitude. Here are some of the difficulties that you may face due to the high elevation of the Everest Base Camp:

Altitude Sickness:

Altitude sickness is a common difficulty you will face at high elevations of Everest Base Camp. The lack of oxygen and lower air pressure at higher altitudes can lead to headaches, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue.

Physical exertion:

With reduced oxygen levels, physical exertion can become more challenging for you. You may experience shortness of breath and increased fatigue. Proper rest and pacing are necessary to manage these difficulties.

Weather and Terrain Challenges:

The unpredictable weather conditions and rocky terrains due to the high elevation of Everest Base Camp add to the difficulty of your trek. You must be prepared to negotiate through changing environments.

Alongside these issues, trekkers will likely suffer from problems like flight cancellations, illnesses like dry throat and cough, vomiting, rapid pulse, High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE), and High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE).

Effects of Altitude on Human Body

Trekking at high elevations impacts the human body. As the altitude increases, the air becomes thinner, and the oxygen levels also decrease. This means you will inhale less oxygen but pass out the same amount of carbonation. Due to the lower oxygen level, it has specific effects on the human body.

Hypoxia:

Hypoxia is a condition that can be caused by high-elevation trekking in the Everest Base Camp Trek. It occurs when your body tissues have a comfortable low oxygen level. The symptoms of Hypoxia are the same as acute mountain sickness, like dizziness, nausea, and shortness of breath.

Faster Breathing:

To compensate for the reduced oxygen, your body increases your breathing rate to deliver more oxygen to your bloodstream.

Increased Heart Rate:

Your heart rate can also speed up to pump more oxygenated blood around your body.

Altered Sleep Patterns:

High altitudes can disrupt sleep patterns, causing insomnia. This can further contribute to feelings of fatigue and disorientation.

Fluid Loss:

The low humidity and increased breathing at high altitudes can cause dehydration, as more water vapor is lost from the lungs.

Changes in Blood:

Over time, the body adapts by producing more red blood cells to carry oxygen. However, this can also increase the risk of blood clots.

trekking to ebc with himalaya view

Tips for Acclimatization for EBC

Acclimatization is the ability of your body to adjust and adapt to the decrease in oxygen as you gain more elevation while trekking or climbing at an altitude of above 3,000m like Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Base Camp, Langtang Gosainkunda Trek, Kanchenjunga Base Camp and other high altitude treks. Therefore, for those embarking on the Everest Base Camp Trek, the importance of acclimatization cannot be overstated.

However, acclimatization is a gradual process and not a magical switch. Below are some of the strategies that allow you to properly acclimatize during the Everest Base Camp Trek:

  • The key to acclimatization is ascending gradually while allowing your body the time it needs to adjust to the gradual elevation gain. This is the reason why two or three days of your Everest Base Camp Trek itinerary are strategically dedicated to acclimatization and resting.
  • On the said acclimatization days, go for short hikes at nearby places as it allows you to follow the ‘climb high sleep low’ rule which further helps with acclimatization.
  • While on the Everest Base Camp Trek, take proper care of your nutrition and hydration. Drinking lots of water can help your body acclimatize faster. Have a properly balanced diet including high protein snacks. Avoid alcoholic drinks.
  • Listen to your body and trek at a gentle pace. Don’t over-exert yourself. Instead, take more days if need be.
  • Although altitude sickness can hit anyone despite the physical fitness, preparing in advance can enhance your cardiovascular health which can help you adjust to the low oxygen level.
  • If your symptoms worsen, descend to a lower altitude and rest well. You can continue the trek once you are fit again.

How Many Days Recommended to Acclimatize the Everest Base Camp

Acclimatization is critical to successfully trekking to Everest Base Camp, and it varies from person to person depending on their physical fitness, overall health, and individual response to high altitudes.

The Everest Base Camp Trek typically takes around 12-14 days round trip, excluding days spent traveling to and from Lukla, where the trek begins. Of these, 1-3 days are typically set aside for acclimatization. These rest days does not lack activity, rather includes shorter hikes to higher altitudes to aid in “climb high, sleep low.”

The Importance of Acclimatization on the Everest Base Camp Trek

Acclimatization is the process of getting accustomed to a new climate or new conditions. In Mountain Expedition, the term describes the process of making climbers adjust to new heights by gradually introducing them to higher altitudes during their trek. The risks of not having enough acclimatization days on your Everest Base Camp Trek are many. It may even lead to your evacuation in mid trek due to health complications. Skipping your acclimatization days will make you prone to Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), an altitude sickness complication. Symptoms include shortness of breath, headache, nausea, sleeplessness, rapid heart rate, vomiting, etc. Hence, setting aside enough acclimatization days on mountain expeditions is very important.

Preparation for Everest Base Camp Elevation Gain

  • Start physical preparation well in advance and stick to a regimen that focuses on your cardiovascular health, stamina, and endurance. Go for activities like swimming, cycling, and running before you arrive Nepal for your planned trekking journey.
  • If possible, go for shorter Hiking Trips as a part of altitude training taking you to a higher altitude than where you stay. This induces conditions similar to the trek and allows your body to adjust.
    Research well about the challenges regarding altitude and study the symptoms of altitude sickness for mental preparation. Read about tips to prevent altitude sickness like acclimatization.
  • Include suitable gear and accessories in your packing list for the Everest Base Camp Trek or similar treks like Annapurna Circuit Trek, Langtang Gosainkunda Trek or Manaslu Trek to avoid any added challenges with the elevation.

How Can You Prevent Yourself from Altitude Sickness

Preventing altitude sickness involves several key steps to help your body adjust gradually to higher elevations:

Ascend Gradually: Take your time to climb higher. Ascend no more than 300-500 meters (about 1,000-1,600 feet) per day once above 3,000 meters (about 10,000 feet).

Stay Hydrated: Drink fluids, at least 3-4 liters of water per day, to prevent dehydration, which can worsen altitude sickness.

Proper Acclimatization: Plan rest days during your trek to allow your body to acclimate to the altitude. Climbing high during the day and sleeping at a lower altitude can also aid acclimatization.

Eat Well: Maintain a balanced diet rich in carbohydrates and easy-to-digest foods. Avoid heavy meals and alcohol, which can impair acclimatization.

Medication: Consider medications like acetazolamide (Diamox) under medical advice. It will help you prevent symptoms of altitude sickness.

Recognize Symptoms: Be aware of symptoms like headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. If you experience these, descend to a lower altitude until symptoms improve.

Respect Limits: Know your physical limits and listen to your body. Don’t push yourself too hard, especially if you feel unwell at higher elevations.

spectacular view of everest

FAQs

How many base camps are on Everest?

Everest has two main base camps: the South Base Camp in Nepal and the North Base Camp in Tibet.

Is Everest base camp dangerous?

Trekking to Everest Base Camp has risks, including altitude sickness and unpredictable weather. But it's generally safe with proper preparation and an experienced guide.

How much elevation gain is Everest?

The total elevation gain from Everest Base camp to the summit of Mount Everest, from sea level, is 8,848.86 meters or 29,031.7 feet.

How high is the Everest Base Camp?

Everest Base Camp sits at an altitude of approximately 5,364 meters. The Everest Base Camp Elevation is 17,598 feet in Nepal.

Can you go higher than Everest Base Camp?

Yes, you can go higher than Everest Base Camp. The ultimate goal for many climbers is the summit of Everest at 8,848.86 meters (29,031.7 feet).

Does anyone live at Everest Base Camp?

During the climbing season, there are temporary communities of climbers, Sherpas, and support staff at Everest Base Camp. But it's not a permanent residential area due to the extreme conditions.

Conclusion

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