Everest Base Camp Trek 16 Days

As EBC trek consists of primarily of high altitude regions, it is considered to be moderate to challenging, although it is not due to any technical difficulties of the terrain. Routes are clearly marked, and no rock climbing or mountaineering is involved. That said, trekkers should be ready for over 5-7 hours of daily rugged path walks, 2 weeks of ascending, and the ‘thin-air’ challenge of walking over 5,000 meters for extended periods. The slow itinerary, including ‘on the day’ acclimatization, is targeted at avoiding altitude sickness.

Everest Base Camp trek is unique because it does not require any previous experience trekking. Because of this, it is perfect for beginner trekkers, so long as they possess good fitness. Each year, many of them walk just as the guides recommend and manage to finish it with appropriate pre trek preparations, and the guides’ calm pace. That said, having some experience in walking in hilly terrain, and having a backpack for some hours will make the trek easier for you, and increase your self-confidence on the trek.

The optimal periods for the Everest Base Camp trek are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). During these periods, skies are mostly clear, the trails are dry, and the weather is stable, allowing for breathtaking views of the mountains. Spring features warmer temperatures and blooming rhododendrons, while autumn is refreshingly brisk and clear due to the post-monsoon atmosphere. Winter (December-February) is extremely cold and has heavy snowfall. The monsoon season (June-August) is also unsuitable for trekking because the trails are slippery and exposed to flight delays and landslides.

The trek to Everest Base Camp includes Kalapatthar as amongst the highlights of the journey. At 5,545 meters (18,192 feet), Kalapatthar showcases the most stunning 360-degree vistas of Everest. Base Camp itself is located at 5,364 meters (17,598 feet). To help with acclimatization, the trek to Kalapatthar begins in Lukla (2,860 meters) and takes 8-10 days. Given the quick elevation gain, the trekker is given ample time to adjust to the altitude as there is also a significant increase in elevation gain. Therefore, the survey of the elevation gain is crucial.

On the Everest Base Camp trek, most days require between 5-7 hours of walking, though this will vary depending on the specific day of the itinerary. For acclimatization hikes in Namche or Dingboche, for instance, these typically last 3-4 hours. In contrast, the trek to Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar can range between 8-10 hours on these specific days. The pace of hiking is deliberately slow to give the body time to adjust to the altitude and there will be regular breaks for rest, tea, and lunch.

Altitude sickness (Acute Mountain Sickness or AMS) is, unfortunately, the most common risk on this trek due to the high elevations (over 3,000 meters). The symptoms may include: headache, stomach, and dizziness, loss of appetite, and shortness of breath. The most important way to prevent AMS is to ascend slowly and maintain proper acclimatization levels along with adequate fluid intake, no alcoholic beverages, and appropriate rest. The itinerary is planned to lower this risk. Mild AMS symptoms will typically pass with rest. Downward travel is the only solution for severe AMS.

While completing the Everest Base Camp trek, one is housed in local teahouses or lodges, which are simple accommodations run by local families. Their accommodations, while basic, are comfortable, consisting of twin beds, warm blankets, and a shared bath. Of note, rooms will be simple and unheated, save for the remnant warmth in the stove-heated dining hall in the evening, and become colder as one goes higher. Many lodges also offer or sell hot showers, Wi-Fi, and places to charge electronic devices. While the lodges may be described as rustic or a step down in modern conveniences, these will contribute to the authentic Himalayan trekking experience.

Each teahouse prepares the meals in accordance to the menu of local and international options. As part of the meal compositions, one is served dal bhat which includes lentils, rice, and vegetables. Other menu options to refuel energy includes other staples such as noodles, pasta, soups, momos (dumplings), potatoes, fried rice, eggs, and pancakes. At higher altitudes, the predominantly vegetarian menu is complemented by the usual unbalanced and starchy diet. Additionally, trekkers are advised to limit their meat intake, beginning in Namche Bazaar, due to the high probability of the meat being spoiled. Most of the meat served in the area is carried by porters or animals to the high-trekking regions.

Most teahouses provide phone charging and Wi-Fi services, particularly in the more frequented villages like Namche Bazaar, Dingboche, and Lobuche. Because the power supply is generator or solar-powered, charging devices typically carries a nominal cost. Everest Link cards provide level lukewarm Wi-Fi and internet access at the lower valleys, although you will likely encounter a pay Wi-Fi service, and will definitely encounter weak Wi-Fi. Expect slow Wi-Fi reliability to be affected by altitude and weather at the lower villages. You will most likely want to have a fully powered power bank/solar charger and use your devices only when necessary.

The Everest Base Camp trek encompasses three principal permits for trekkers. The permits include the following.

• Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit fee NPR 3,000 per person.
• Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit fee NPR 3,000 per person.
• TIMS Card – for individual trekkers, NPR 2,000 if not trekking with a local agency or guide.

Permits include the aforementioned and are obtainable in Kathmandu or at entry checkpoints during the trek. As a best practice, permits are best to be arranged through your trekking agency or guide to prevent setbacks.

Absolutely. Particularly when done with a certified guide and porter. The paths are well marked and are walked over by thousands of trekkers every year. The guides and porters also monitor and manage trekkers’ and porters’ health and emergencies. The level of safety provided when trekking in a group or with a local agency further enhances peace of mind. In emergencies, assuming the relevant travel insurance is in place, helicopter rescue is possible.

Yes, travel insurance is required for the Everest Base Camp trek, including coverage for trekking up to 6,000 meters and emergency helicopter evacuation. In remote regions, the provision of medical care is basic, and the only recourse for severe altitude sickness or critical injuries is evacuation by air. Also, trip insurance should cover trip cancellations, delays, and losses due to baggage, and hospitalization is a must.

Beginning your preparatory training 6 to 8 weeks in advance is necessary to integrate your schedule with cardio (running, hiking, and stair climbing), strength training, and practice hikes with a pack. For cardio, try to walk trails with elevation gain to simulate trekking conditions. To build stamina, I recommend longer walks on consecutive days. Your joints and core will also need special attention. For the pre-trek, I will also suggest that to have a balanced diet and active training, condition your mind for more mental discomfort, variability, and the rest of the training elements.

It is possible to do solo trekking, although for beginners it is strongly recommended to hire a local guide and porter. This helps to ensure safety of the trek and provides a cultural perspective on the area being trekked, the guide also takes care of the logistics. The porter also helps by carrying some of the things you would normally carry so you can better enjoy your trek. Solo trekking during the off-season months and in poor weather is not recommended for safety reasons. Some trekking routes also require local assistance for navigation.

Here is a comprehensive list of everything needed for the trek.

• Clothing in layers (base layer, fleece, down jacket, waterproof shell)
• Trekking boots, socks, gloves, hat, sunglasses, and trekking poles
• Sleeping bag rated to -10°C or lower
• Backpack with rain cover and a small daypack
• Headlamp, power bank, water purification tablets, and personal toiletries
• First aid kit with altitude medication

Pack light but smart, and consider renting or buying some gear in Kathmandu if needed.