What is the Everest Base Camp Trek?

The Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the most popular and rewarding treks in the world. This high-altitude trek takes you through the heart of the Nepal Himalayas, offering stunning views of some of the world's tallest peaks, including Mount Everest itself.

Where is Everest Base Camp located?

Everest Base Camp (5364 m) is located at the borderline between Tibet and Nepal. Actually, there are two Everest Base Camps, the one on the Tibetan side and the other on Nepal side. But, the Everest Base Camp on Nepal side is more popular among the travelers because of more spectacular mountain views and convenient trekking trail. It is located in Khumbu region of Solukhumbu district of Nepal, next to Gorekhshep, the last settlement on Everest Base Camp Trekking trail.

How high is Everest Base Camp?

Early morning we fly from Kathmandu Airport (1,324 m) to Lukla Airport (2860 m) by light aircraft (17-19 people), which takes about 35 minutes; and begin the trek to the south face of Mount Everest Base Camp (EBC) at 5,380m or 17,600 feet above sea level.

How to reach Everest Base Camp?

The trek begins after a short, scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, a small mountain town that serves as the gateway to the Everest Trek region. From Lukla, trekkers make their way on foot through vibrant Sherpa villages, past prayer wheels and colorful flags, across swinging suspension bridges, and into the alpine wilderness of Sagarmatha National Park.

The most classic route then leads to Namche Bazaar, the economic hub of the region and an essential acclimatization stop. Beyond Namche, the trail meanders through villages like Tengboche, Dingboche, and Lobuche before finally reaching Gorak Shep, the last settlement before Everest Base Camp. Along the route, trekkers have the chance to visit Tengboche Monastery, the largest in the Khumbu region, witness the stunning Himalayan panorama from Kala Patthar, and observe Everest up close to the Base Camp.

Reaching Everest Base Camp is the main goal of the trek. At an altitude of 5,364 meters (17,598 feet), it offers a close-up view of the Khumbu Icefall, and if you're lucky, you might even see mountaineering expeditions preparing to summit Everest.

How long does it take to reach the Everest Base Camp?

The Everest Base camp Trek is 130 km / 18.6 mi long taking typically 12-14 days to complete. It takes around 8 days to reach the base camp with enough acclimatization and around 4 days to get back down. The overall walk is of around 9 days and 3 short trekking acclimatization days.

How difficult is Everest Base Camp Trek?

Everest Base Camp Trek is a moderate/demanding trek that does not require any technical expertise of mountaineering. It is basically a long hike up to the altitude of 5,364 meters / 17,599 feet. The trek is only grueling because of its duration of 12 days hike up and down the hill across diverse terrains (15 days including arrival, cultural tours and departure). Read more on Everest Base Camp Trek Dififculty.

Is trekking to Everest Base Camp safe?

The Everest Base Camp Trek is generally safe, but high altitude and unpredictable weather conditions pose risks. It’s crucial to trek with a knowledgeable guide who can navigate the trail, provide assistance in case of emergencies, and ensure your safety. Following safety guidelines and acclimatizing properly can greatly reduce the risks.

Do we need to climb during Everest Base Camp Trek?

Not at all, Everest Base camp Trek is an easy-going uphill into the Himalayas, taking us to the highest altitude of 5364 meters at the base of Mount Everest. This hike or trek will be through a steep trail but well maintained. You don’t require any climbing gear or climbing shoes for the Everest Base camp Trek, this is just a trekking trip through the well-paved trail where every year thousands do the trek successfully.

What kind of physical fitness is required for this trek?

You don’t need to be an athlete or professional climber; however, it’s important that you build up your fitness level before attempting this arduous trek. This means engaging in aerobic exercises such as running, swimming, and cycling for several months prior to your departure date.

Are there any age restrictions for the Everest Base Camp Trek?

There are no specific age restrictions for the Everest Base Camp Trek. However, trekkers should be in good health and consult with their doctors especially if they are elderly or have any pre-existing medical conditions. It’s advisable to assess your own fitness level and consult with a trekking professional before deciding to undertake the trek.

Can I trek to Everest Base Camp with my children?

Yes, you can trek to EBC with children but only those above ten. Young children before this age will not be able to adapt to the altitude level of Everest Base Camp. Young children will not be able to recognize the early signs of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness).

Children who are fussy about food, do not like walking, and prefer luxurious lifestyle are unlikely to enjoy Everest Base Camp Trek. One way of making your children enjoy the trek is by taking enough rest for acclimatization. The route is filled with wild inhabitants, waterfalls, glacier lakes and other such things that fascinate a kid.

With the inclusion of more rest days the itinerary will become longer but well designed for the young trekkers. Given more days in the trekking area, they will be able to enjoy the surrounding, nature, mountain views, local culture and lifestyle of mountain people.

When is the best time to trek to Everest Base Camp?

Nepal welcomes its most visitors during spring and autumn season and least during summer/monsoon season and winter season. But it all depends on people and their preferences. Because all the season has its own attractive features.

For instance, spring season which falls from March-May may be the best time to do Everest Base Camp trek due to its clear and moderate weather. Likewise, the autumn season which falls from September- November because it greets you with stunning mountain views.

Whereas summer/monsoon brings the freshness because during this time you will be traversing through deep lush jungles.

Also if you want to avoid the crowd and do mind mushy trail and the frequent encounter with the leeched then it might be an ideal time to do the EBC trek. Similarly, if you have a high tolerance level to resist the cold and love the snow then winter season is also not a bad time to do the trek.

How cold is trekking to the Everest Base Camp?

The temperature in Everest Base Camp is cold reaching below freezing point during the night and early mornings. The temperature ranges from a maximum of 4°C / 39.2°F during the day to a minimum -17°C / 1.4°F at night. Remember that you will not be sleeping at Everest base camp instead you will just be visiting during the day unless you book a sleeping at Everest Base Camp Trek with only 4 dates open each year.

Is Everest Base Camp Trek dangerous?

When compared with Everest climb, the Everest Base Camp trek is relatively safer. However, Everest Base Camp trek still possesses a variety of risks due to its location and high altitude. This means that the trekkers are still prone to altitude sickness without enough acclimatization.

Which is the hardest part of the Everest Base Camp Trek?

Generally, there are three demanding days on your 12-days itinerary. The first hardest day is a trek from Pheriche to Namche Bazaar consisting of a long steep walk from the Hillary suspension bridge all the way to Namche. The second hardest part is while trekking from Dingboche to Gorakshep while the third hardest part of the entire trek is the Kala Patthar climb at 5,545 meters / 18,192 feet and reaching to the base camp and back.

Is my trip departure for Everest Base Camp Trek guaranteed?

Absolutely yes! Under normal circumstances, our booked trips are guaranteed to run. You will still be doing your trek even if other trekkers cancel their trip. This is the reason why Raj Bala Treks & Expedition is different from other agencies, who usually cancel their whole trip a month or even a week before the trip date. We are a tailor-made company and the number of participants does not stop our operation.

If your trip has been canceled by your operator and you are in a last-minute stress, remember to find us to sort out your trip decisions.

Please feel free to book your stress-free holidays with us. Unless there is a situation which is out of control such as a political riot, natural disaster, pandemic, epidemic or weather catastrophes, our trips are 100% guaranteed to run.

How many people will be in the group?

On our Fixed Group Departure Trips there will be from a minimum of 2-4 people in the group with a maximum of 10-15 persons in the group. We also organize tailor made trips for private group/s.

What happens if some are sick and have to break the trek?

In this situation where our guides are well equipped with knowledge for emergency and medical purposes, depending upon the seriousness of the victims if it is much critical where the nearest medical attention needed, we call for immediate evacuation for Helicopter services to reach the victims to nearest medical station and hospital. For light AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness), resting and drinking enough fluid leaving an extra guide to take care of sick clients till he/she recovers on route treks or helps them to descend to safer areas and taking an advance flight back to Kathmandu.

What is the standard itinerary for Everest Base Camp Trek (Kathmandu to EBC and back to Kathmandu)?

The Everest Base Camp Trek itinerary is as mentioned below.

Day 01: Flight: Kathmandu to Lukla and Trek to Lukla to Phakding (2610m/8561ft), 30 minutes flight/4 hours trek
Day 02: Trek Phakding to Namche (3440 m/11283ft) which takes approximately 6 hours.
Day 03: Rest & acclimatization day in Namche
Day 04: Trek Namche to Tengboche (3860m/12661ft) and it takes approximately 6 hours.
Day 05: Trek Tengboche to Dingboche (4360m/14301ft) which takes approximately 6 hours.
Day 06: Rest & Acclimatization Day in Dingboche
Day 07: Trek Dingboche to Lobuche (4840m/16203ft) and it takes approximately 7 hours
Day 08: Trek Lobuche to Gorakshep to EBC (5181m) which takes approximately 8 hours.
Day 09: Hike Kala Patthar and back Pheriche (5545m/18188ft) and it takes about 8 hours
Day 10: Trek Pheriche to Namche which takes approximately 7 hours
Day 11: Trek Namche to Lukla and it takes approximately 6 hours
Day 12: Flight from Lukla to Kathmandu which takes about 35 minutes

See the details for Everest Base Camp Trek itinerary and cost, group departure dates along with necessary information. We also organize treks for private groups

Is Everest Base Camp Trek itinerary customizable?

Yes, of course, with Raj Bala Treks & Expedition you can customize / personalize the trek itinerary and services to be provided according to your requirements.

Is it necessary to have acclimation day during the trek? How many days?

Yes, it is important to have acclimation day during the trek. This is to allow your body to adapt to the rising altitude. 2 Days is sufficient for a 12 Days Everest Base Camp Trek.

On average, how long will we be walking each day on Everest Base Camp Trek?

The average walking time each day during the Everest Base Camp Trek varies depending on various factors, such as the altitude, weather, trail conditions, and your physical fitness. On average, most trekkers walk for around 4 to 7 hours each day.

However, the walking time can be longer or shorter depending on your itinerary and the pace at which you choose to trek. Some days may require longer walking hours, while others may have shorter walking hours to allow for proper acclimatization. The walking time can also be affected by weather conditions, as some days may be affected by rain, snow, or high winds, which can make the trail more difficult to navigate.

It is important to remember that the Everest Base Camp Trek is a high-altitude trek, and it is important to listen to your body and adjust your pace as needed. You can also choose to take rest days or short walks on the trail if needed. The important thing is to enjoy the journey and to reach the base camp safely.

How much does it cost to trek to Everest Base Camp?

Regarding the Everest Base Camp Trek cost, there is never fixed price. Because Everest Base Camp Trek cost always depends on services, how you are going to take it. The trip would cost anywhere US$ 1490 to US$ 6000. The Everest Base Camp Trek costing also depending on the route, equipment providers and their services. The deluxe trekking package and round-trip helicopter ticket cost a little more than the standard packages. The Everest Base Camp Trek with helicopter return tour package slightly costly but still less than Mount Everest expedition.

So, the Everest Base Camp Trek total cost is mainly based on the needs of the travelers. The cost of trekking in the different mountain regions of Nepal ranges from budget trips to very expensive luxury trips, not to mention the cost of international flights.

Are there available luxury services for Everest Base Camp Trek?

You can expect from cheap or budget to standard and luxury lodge Everest Base Camp Trek packages. We, Raj Bala Treks & Expedition offer Everest Base Camp Luxury Trek options for those looking for luxury options in the mountains. Luxury Everest Base Camp Trek means the provision of luxury accommodation with hot showers in most places except for some nights at mountains higher up. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

How much cash should I take with me to trek Everest Base Camp Trek?

The trip cost offered by Raj Bala Treks & Expedition is almost an all-inclusive price. Once you buy our Everest Base Camp Trek, you really do not need so much cash during the trek. On an average, US$ 500 should be enough for personal drinks, tips, and shopping. There are ATM facilities right from Lukla en route up to Namche Bazaar.

What gears and equipment do I need for Everest Base Camp Trek?

For our itinerary of 14 nights 15 days Nepal Everest Base Camp Trek, we recommend the following gears and equipment for backpacking:

CLOTHING
* Down or fiber-filled waterproof/ wax jacket and trousers
* Fleece jacket or pullover
* Warm cotton tracksuit-pants
* Shirts and T-shirts
* Lightweight cotton long pants (3 pairs)
* Long underwear
* Short underwear
* Lightweight gloves
* Rain gear (coat, rain cover for the bag)
* Heavy weight gloves or mittens with a waterproof

EQUIPMENT
* Sleeping bag
* Down jacket
* Daypack
* Flashlight with spare bulbs, batteries, gaiters

HEAD
* Sun hat or scarf
* Warm fleece hat
* Sunglasses with UV protection
* Sunscreen with a very high SPF factor (100+)
* Lip balm

FOOTWEAR
* Trekking boot: (Sturdy, ankle–support, water-resistant, well broken in)
* Gaiters (for high passes above 3500 meters)
* Thick socks
* Light socks
* Camp shoes/ Crocs
* Sandals (1 pair)

DRINKING WATER
* Water Bottle, Purification equipment, or purification tablets

MISCELLANEOUS
* Cameras, Torch Light, Binoculars, Reading book, Travel games

See full Nepal Trekking Packing List.

Can you provide more information about your Trekking Guides?

Most of the Guides in our company come from mountainous areas. They are carefully selected on the basis of their experience, leadership skills, and personal aptitude. We provide Guides that are experienced and fluent in English. With the objective of sustaining local communities, we employ Guides from different ethnic backgrounds who have adequate knowledge about the culture, ecosystem, flora and fauna, geography, and history of Nepal.

Our Guides have the required government license to guide tourists. They have all gone through intensive training programs like wilderness first aid, trekking guide training and related workshops which are certified and approved by the government of Nepal.

Do I have to carry my own luggage?

There will be supporting staff members to carry your luggage in the mountains. You will get a porter between two people. Please remember to pack as lightly as possible for the mountain. You can keep the rest of the stuff, which you do not need in the mountains, in your last city hotel that you will return back to.

You will just need to carry your day pack with essentials for the day like drinking water, energy bars, sunscreen cream, a camera, other gadgets, and other stuff that you will need during the day.

What is the difference between 16 Days and 14 Days Everest Base Camp Trek?

Basically, there is no difference at all. You will walk on the same route through the same villages up to the base camp and back. The only difference is that you will have an additional 2 days acclimatization time on the trek. This is probably the longest version of the Everest Base Camp Trek and we create this trip for those travelers who want to relax and walk at a slower pace. The 16-day EBC Trek is best suitable for first time hikers who actually get extra time to combat the possibilities of being struck by Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).

Do I need to have travel insurance? How likely is altitude sickness?

Yes, you must have travel insurance. It is highly recommended to purchase travel insurance and make sure it covers emergency evacuation at high altitudes. Altitude sickness can attack anyone, no matter if your fitness level is good; the solution is to take time and walk slowly. If you feel AMS, it is suggested to go to the lower elevation.

What will happen in the case of emergency during Everest Base Camp Trek?

We always remain prepared for any emergency situation and know how to handle it. Our Guides are trained in first aid and can deal with most of the basic ailments that occur during a trek. Every client should have his own insurance before coming to Nepal for case of emergency.

What is the first symptom of altitude sickness at Everest Base Camp Trekking?

Generally, the first symptoms begin to show 12-24 hours after arriving at high altitudes. Different levels of altitude sickness have different symptoms. Symptoms of mild, short-term altitude sickness are dizziness, fatigue, loss of appetite, sleep problems, loss of energy, and shortness of breath.

Are there any hospitals or medicals during Everest Base Camp Trek?

There are several health posts along the trail where basic medical facilities are available whereas there is a hospital at Pheriche which lies in the middle of the route. As well as, there will be volunteer doctors along the trail during high season time.

What is the most altitude I will gain on one day during the trek?

It is 560 meters (1837 ft.). You will gain the most altitude on the seventh day from Tengboche to Dingboche, where you start from 3860 meters (12,665 ft.) and reach 4410 meters (14,469 ft.)

Should I take Diamox (Acetazolamide)?

This medication is used to prevent and reduce the symptoms of altitude sickness. It can decrease symptoms such as headaches, tiredness, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath that can occur when you climb quickly to high altitudes. It’s not something that is often required on our trips due to the itinerary, as we account for acclimatization days where you rest or have a short sharp climb to prepare you for the future days.

How do I avoid altitude sickness, basic tips?

• No Cigarette or alcohol while going up
• Walk slowly
• Drink 4 Ltrs water per day
• Do not skip acclimatization day
• Do not take Diamox before you feel something

Can a beginner trek to Everest Base Camp?

You do not require prior trekking experience. As long as you prepare well, you can complete trek to Everest Base Camp. You will walk six to seven hours daily, so we advise you to take up physical training such as cardiovascular exercises, gym workouts, and hiking to nearby hills. You should also eat nutritious diets, which have a good protein and carbohydrate base supplemented with vitamins and minerals. Read more on How to train for EBC trek.

What is the food like on the Everest Base Camp Trek?

During Everest Base Camp Trek, there are several types of foods available for travelers. Everyone able to eat what they prefer in the Everest Region. There are many tea houses and different variety of foods in the tea houses. Foods look like Continental, Indian & Nepali.

Every day is different, but here is a sample of one day's menu on the trail.

Breakfast: Tea served in your tent, coffee or hot chocolate, porridge or a grain cereal, toast with spreads, eggs (fried, omelets or boiled) and tomatoes, boiled water.

Lunch: Juice, potatoes, cucumber and carrot salad, cheese and gherkins, chapatis, pizza, canned tuna and meats, fresh oranges and bananas, boiled water.

Dinner: Soup, steamed vegetables, rice, fried chicken, daal, spaghetti, chocolate cake, fresh apples, tea or hot chocolate, boiled water.

What kind of accommodation is available on Everest Base Camp Trek?

The accommodations are all equipped with the basic amenities needed for a comfortable stay. Normally, they're called tea houses, which are run by local community members. Depending on price and place, accommodations are a luxury too, with the electric blankets, but normal accommodations are with single or twin beds, fresh hot meals, hot showers, electricity, or solar electricity. Most of the places have WiFi services too. There is no heating system inside the room, but in the dining room, they will use a traditional heating system. Toilets are inside the teahouses in western style too.

Is there a heating system available inside the room?

No, you will not have a heating system in your room. However, the fireplace is available in the common dining area.

Do I get to stay overnight at Everest Base Camp?

Our Everest Base Camp Trek does not stay overnight at base camp. Instead, you stay at Gorak Shep, where you walk into base camp for a day trip. If you are interested in staying at base camp, please let us know. We will make arrangements accordingly.

What is so special about Everest Base Camp Trek?

Everest Base Camp Trek is special due to its easiness and short duration to expose the best of the Everest Region. Without spending much time and cost one can experience being at the very best of nature and insight into the scenery without actually climbing to the top of the world.

It allows trekkers to observe lush greenery, astonishing sceneries of mountains all around, rivers, forests, and even some rare species of wildlife and vegetation apart from the exposure to mighty Everest and the people and lifestyle there. It will take you to the actual base of the world's highest mountain.

Is the water safe to drink?

Since the trail of this trekking is mostly rural, the drinking water available during this trek would be tap water, well water or hand pumps and should be purified prior to drinking them. Hence, you should buy bottle waters or should have water purifying pills or any other equipment to ensure drinking safe water.

Is it possible to get a shower during the trek?

Yes, it is possible to get hot showers during Everest Base Camp Trek on the lodges you would be staying overnight or during acclimatization.

What are the bathrooms like on Everest Base Camp trek?

The bathrooms are not so well furnished but still, you can get a good experience on Everest Base Camp Trek. However, in some part of the EBC trekking trail, even luxury accommodation options are available.

What happens if Lukla flight is delayed?

You might already know that the weather in Lukla is unpredictable, it’s uncertain. So before we proceed towards Lukla from Kathmandu, if we come to know the weather is unfavorable, you will be provided with a buffer time of 1 day to wait for the improvement in the weather.

In case, you have already flown towards Lukla and completed the trek but due to weather if you cannot fly back to Kathmandu on the scheduled day then you must have 1 or 2 more days to be spent there.

However, you can fly back via helicopter in case of urgency or emergency which is a bit more expensive than a regular flight (around USD 400 / 500 according to the situation per person in the group).

Do we need a permit for Everest Base Camp Trek?

As you should be entering Sagarmatha National Park, and because the region comes under a protected area, you would be requiring a TIMS card, Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Metropolitan Tax, and Sagarmatha National Park fees for Everest Base Camp Trek.

Is Everest Base Camp Trek safe for solo trekker or solo female trekker?

Of course, one can go for solo trekking without any worries. Embarking on a solo trek to Everest Base Camp is more than an adventure; it’s a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. For solo trekker or solo female trekkers, it’s an opportunity to challenge yourself, step out of your comfort zone, and experience one of the most awe-inspiring landscapes on the planet. The Everest Region awaits with its breathtaking vistas, vibrant culture, and the camaraderie of fellow trekkers and locals alike.

We, Raj Bala Treks & Expedition facilitate these unforgettable adventures, providing the support, safety, and expertise needed to navigate this majestic terrain. Being a pioneer in tailor made trips, our package ensures that you’re well-prepared, from detailed itineraries to personalized guidance, all designed with the solo trekker or solo female trekker in mind. CONTACT US today for a rewarding and memorable trip to Everest Base Camp.

What religions and customs are practiced around Everest Region?

The Everest Region lies at the border of Nepal and Tibet and is highly influenced with the lifestyle and culture of Tibetan people. There are mostly Sherpa people, who are often considered as “the born Mountaineers” and almost everyone in this region practices Buddhism which is the reason you can see Monasteries, Chortens, Prayer flags, Prayer wheels, Mani walls and Mani Stones abundantly along the trails.

Which species of herbs and vegetations and wildlife are preserved at Sagarmatha National Park?

The herbs and vegetations preserved at Sagarmatha National Park are silver firs, birch, rhododendron and juniper trees whereas the wildlife inhabitant at Sagarmatha National Park are Musk deer, Himalayan Tahr, Ghoral, Serow, Wolf, and even the Himalayan Black Bear and if you are very lucky you can also spot Snow Leopard, Red Panda, two varieties of Dazzling Pheasants – the Crimson-horned and the Impeyan Pheasant(national bird of Nepal), marmots, pikas, and marten as well.

Is it possible to take a drone at Sagarmatha National Park? How much would it cost?

The rules and regulations for Operating UAV (drone) in Sagaramatha National Park during Everest Base Camp Trek or other regions of Nepal as per the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) are:

No one shall operate an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) or drone in Nepal without obtaining permission as follows:

1. Tourists intending to fly UAV during their visit to Nepal shall obtain prior permission from the following agencies:
   • Department of Tourism
   • Ministry of Home Affairs
   • Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (not necessary for UAV less than 2 kg and below 200 ft from ground level)
2. For research and study purposes, the permission of the following agencies is required:
   • Line Ministry/Department relating to the subject matter of research/study
   • Ministry of Home Affairs
   • Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (not necessary for UAVs less than 2 kg and below 200 ft from the ground)
3. UAV Pilots should be proficient in flying and have basic knowledge of rules pertaining to drone operation
4. Do not fly UAVs in a way that may cause a safety risk to the aircraft flying in the area.
5. Small flying Toys can be operated inside the private premises.
6. Flying UAVs in public areas for fun requires permission from the local security agencies.
7. The liability of any harm to the persons or damage to the property caused due to the UAV operation shall be the responsibility of the person flying the drone.
8. Refer to the following documents for detailed requirements for UAV operations in Nepal:
   • ‘Flight Operations Directive No. 7, May 2015’ of the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal
   • ‘Procedure for Unmanned Aerial Vehicle flying’ of Ministry of Home Affairs
9. Do not use UAV other than the scope of permission.
10. Flying a UAV without due permission shall be considered Illegal and shall be subjected to punishment under the prevailing civil aviation rules.

Could I use credit cards during Everest Base Camp Trek?

ATMs and credit cards are accessible only in the major cities of Nepal, so during your Everest Base Camp Trek, you can use ATMs and credit cards only while you are in Kathmandu or Lukla.

How busy is the Everest Base Camp trail?

The trekking trail of Everest Base Camp is mostly less crowded during the off-season but during the Nepal Trekking seasons or the time frame of spring months from Mar-May and autumn months from Sept-Nov, the trails get flooded with the number of tourists which results in making the trails busy. But since they are all trekkers, it would be fun to join along your trek and it won’t affect your trekking experience at all because of the pace of each trekker/group.

What currency should I bring to Nepal?

You can bring any of the currencies authorized by the Nepal Rastra Bank and Government of Nepal. We, Raj Bala Treks & Expedition provide you with the facility of exchanging foreign currency at the market rate without any commissions and extra charge.

How much should I tip my guide and porter?

Well, the tip for guide and other trekking staffs like porters and drivers is not mandatory but since they contribute their time apart from family to make you enjoy the best of your trip ensuring your safety and satisfaction, we recommend you to contribute some amount of tip for them. In Nepal, it is practiced that 10% of the total amount you pay for your trek and tour is contributed as a tip.

Is there electricity, Wi-Fi and telephone access in the Everest Trekking Region?

All the services like internet, Wi-fi and telephone can be entertained on the Everest Base Camp Trekking trail. The local lodges offer the trekkers Wi-fi facility and the towns like Namche, Dingboche and Lukla provide the facility of good internet on the trail. For internet and Wi-fi facility, trekkers have to pay some extra cost like Rs. 300-500. Also, one can install/access local SIM card like NCELL or NT in their smart phones and can buy as much data you want and enjoy the internet on the trail.

Can I charge my camera batteries and mobile phone during the trek?

Yes, you can charge your batteries and mobile phones everywhere by paying some extra amount. The price of charging may vary in different places. It is wise to bring your power bank, which you can charge in Kathmandu, and use it in the higher area as charging batteries in the higher area is quite costly.

Can I leave my excess gear in Kathmandu?

Yes. You can leave your other gear and luggage bag at your city hotel or at our office in Kathmandu which will be safely stowed away.

Will I need oxygen on Everest Base Camp Trek?

Oxygen is not typically needed at Everest Base Camp Trek, which is at an altitude of about 5,364 meters. Most people can acclimatize to this altitude over the course of their trek to the base camp. However, some might still experience symptoms of altitude sickness. Proper acclimatization is key to handling the lower oxygen levels at this height.

Do I need crampons to trek or climb to Everest Base Camp?

No, you will not need crampons for Everest Base Camp Trek. You will just need good quality hiking boots and hiking poles for extra support and stability. However, if you are to trek in early spring i.e. January or February, you might need crampons depending on the intensity of the snowfall.

Can I trek to Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes on a single trek?

Absolutely! Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes Trek is doable on a single go that usually takes 15 days to complete. You can trek first to Gokyo Lakes and then to Everest Base Camp or the base camp of Everest and then to Gokyo.

Cho La, a high Himalayan pass over 5,420 meters, bridges these two beautiful places in the Everest region. Thus, those looking to complete Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes must cross Cho La, either from the Gokyo side or the Dzongla side.

Trekkers also have the option of trekking down to Pangboche, Phortse, and Gokyo if they want to avoid crossing Cho La. However, this route is lengthier.

Can I trek from Salleri to Everest Base Camp Trek by road?

Yes. Salleri to Everest Base Camp Trek by road is doable during Spring, Autumn, and Winter. To start this trek by road, you must take a jeep ride from Kathmandu to Salleri and Bupsa. The total distance from Kathmandu to Bupsa is roughly 350 km, which takes 14-15 hours.

From Kathmandu to Salleri, you’ll drive along the blacktopped road. You’ll enjoy panoramic hills and beautiful villages till Salleri. However, the road from Salleri to Bupsa is entirely off-road with scary turns. While driving to Bupsa, you’ll progress through beautiful villages of lower Solukhumbu with terrace farmlands. Once you reach Bupsa, you’ll stop overnight at a tea house.

The following day, after breakfast, you’ll start the trek to Chaurikharka via Paiya, Chheubas, and Surke. On the third day, a one-hour trek from Chaurikharka takes you to the Everest Base Camp route from Lukla. Also, on this day, you’ll trek to Namche Bazaar.

What are some alternative trekking routes in the Everest region?

There are several alternative trekking routes in the Everest region that offer different landscapes and experiences. Some options include the Gokyo Lakes Trek, which takes you to beautiful turquoise lakes and offers views of Mount Everest from a different vantage point.

Another option is the Three Passes Trek, which involves crossing three high mountain passes and offers more challenging terrain and panoramic views. Our Luxury Lodge Trek to Everest Base Camp offers the perfect blend of adventure and comfort. Stay overnight in one of the exquisite lodges in region of Everest Trek, indulging in the finest amenities while immersing yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas.

Join us for an unforgettable journey of a lifetime!

How much tips should I give to the guide, porter, and driver?

The amount of tip you should give to your guide, porter, and driver depends on various factors, such as the level of service provided and your personal preference. However, as a general guideline, it is customary to tip around 10% of the total cost of the trek. For example, if the total cost of the trek is US$1,500, you can give a tip of around US$ 150 to the guide, porter, and driver.

It is important to note that tipping is a personal and optional choice, and you can adjust the amount based on your budget and satisfaction with the services provided. The tip should be given in local currency, and it is common to give it at the end of the trek, after you have completed your journey and had a chance to assess the level of service provided.

What else can I do in Kathmandu? Can I do any other hiking or trekking?

You can visit other places in the Kathmandu Valley like Patan, Bhaktapur, Kirtipur, Dhulikel or Chitwan for a wildlife safar – we can help arrange this. If you're interested in hiking or short trekking, you can head to Nagarkot Tour or Langtang Trek.

We hope we have answered all your questions about Everest Base Camp trek. We also have a complete Everest Base Camp Trek guide for you. Still, if you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to CALL US.