Make your Everest base camp trek a lifetime experience.

Trekking to Everest base camp is not popular just because it is the highest mountain in the world. The Everest national park comprises some of the highest and spectacular mountains, longest and highest glaciers in the Himalayas and the deep valley inhabited by Sherpa people. The area dominated by the highest mountains on earth is the most remote place on the face of the earth which sustains unique and pristine Himalayan ecology and culture. This is home to many endangered species like snow leopard and lesser pandas. A trek to Everest base camp is the most rewarding trek in the Himalayas but it also needs careful planning and preparation. Here are some helpful tips and information to help you make your Everest base camp trek a lifetime experience. 

• Scenic flight to Lukla : A flight to Lukla airport from Kathmandu is one of the most beautiful mountain sightseeing flights. So make sure you get the window seat on the left facing the pilot. The 35 minutes flight whoose along the snow peaks of Langtang, Rolwaling and Numbur Himal ranges.   

• Only one chance of seeing Kusum Kanguru Peak : Everest trek is a panoramic thrill from day one. The Himalayan landscape, Tibeten Buddhist villages, crossing suspension bridges and the view of snow peaks are all overwhelming. In all of these, you will see the Kusum Kanguru peak just once from a gorge of Ghat village between Lukla to Phakding. Plan a lunch in Ghat and enjoy the amazing view of the snow peak through the lush gorge. 

• Detour of Khumjung village and Yeti Scalp : Make sure to visit the Syangboche ridge and go to Khumjung village for lunch. This detour will not only help you acclimate better but also offers you the best overview of the peaks of Khumbu and Mahalangure ranges including Mt Everest. Khumjung is a typical Sherpa village at the base of their holy mountain Mt Khumbila. This is where one of the Sir Edmund Hilaray schools and the local monastery have Yeti scalp. 

• Sunset view from Tengboche : Tengboche is the last point along the route from where one can see the panorama of Mt EVerest, Lhotse and Nuptse. After Tengboche, Everest is visible again only from Gorekshep. The Everest view is more beautiful during the sunset. 

Important information about the trek

• Permits: You'll need two permits to trek to Everest Base Camp: the Sagarmatha National Park Permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit (also known as the TIMS card). These permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Lukla.

• Guide and Porter: Hiring a local guide and/or porter is highly recommended. A guide can help you navigate the trail, provide cultural insights, and ensure your safety. A porter can carry your heavy backpack, allowing you to enjoy the trek more comfortably.

• Fitness : Remember that the Everest Base Camp trek is physically demanding and requires a reasonable level of fitness. It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before undertaking such a high-altitude trek, especially if you have any underlying health concerns. Proper preparation and precautions will help ensure a safe and memorable journey to the base of the world's tallest mountain.

• Acclimatization: Altitude sickness is a significant concern in the Everest region. Acclimatization is crucial to avoid altitude-related illnesses. The recommended itinerary includes several rest days to help your body adjust to the increasing altitude.

• Packing List:

  • Warm clothing, including down jackets, thermal layers, and gloves.
  • Good quality, broken-in hiking boots with sturdy soles.
  • A comfortable and well-fitting backpack.
  • High-quality sunglasses with UV protection.
  • Sunscreen, lip balm, and a wide-brimmed hat.
  • Water purification tablets or a filter.
  • Basic first aid kit with altitude sickness medication.
  • A sleeping bag suitable for cold weather.
  • Snacks and water (you can buy bottled water along the trail, but it's expensive).
  • Trekking poles for stability on steep terrain.
  • Headlamp with extra batteries.

• Food and Water: The tea houses along the trail offer a variety of food options, but the menu becomes more limited as you gain altitude. It's a good idea to carry some energy bars and snacks. Also, consider treating water with purification tablets or a filter to avoid waterborne illnesses.

• Altitude Sickness: Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness, which can include headaches, nausea, and dizziness. If you experience severe symptoms, it's important to descend to a lower altitude immediately. Proper acclimatization and staying hydrated can help prevent altitude sickness.

• Weather: The weather in the Everest region can be unpredictable, even during the trekking season (spring and autumn). It's essential to be prepared for cold temperatures and the possibility of rain or snow.

• Travel Insurance: Make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers trekking at high altitudes, including medical evacuation in case of emergencies.

• Respect Local Culture: The Everest region is home to the Sherpa people, who have a rich culture and traditions. Be respectful of their customs and beliefs. Ask for permission before taking photos of people, their homes, or religious sites.

• Pack Light: Keep your backpack as light as possible. Porters have weight limits, and you don't want to overburden yourself.

• Lukla Flights from Kathmandu or Ramchhap : The flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, where many treks to Everest Base Camp begin, can be delayed or canceled due to weather conditions. Be prepared for potential delays and have some flexibility in your schedule. The flight leave from Ramechhap, some 80 km from Kathmandu during the months of peak tourist season,  

• Trekking Season: The best times to trek to Everest Base Camp are in the spring (April to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is relatively stable.