Everest Base Camp Trek For Beginners
Eco Nepal Trekkers
Everest Base Camp Trek For Beginners: Overview
Everest Base Camp (EBC) is the world’s highest mountain base camp and a dream destination for both experienced and beginners trekkers. Stepping foot at the base camp of the world’s highest peak is beyond imagination, and seeing the ultimate close-up view with your own eyes cannot be expressed in words. With an elevation of 5364 meters above sea level, EBC is undoubtedly one of the greatest places on earth.
Everest base camp trek is a trip to the geographical and cultural center of the great Himalayas of Nepal with beautiful sceneries of nature and exploration of the Sherpa people.
During your journey, you will pass by lovely and peaceful villages, monasteries, and challenging terrain. But walking is not the only part of this adventure. This also has to do with how one experiences the local spirituality and culture.
You will be able enjoy a walk around an established area of Sagarmatha National Park, which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Nepal, here. Trekkers can witness a variety of unique types of plants that are uncommon in other areas, as well as animals such the Himalayan Black Bear, Snow Leopard, Mountain Yak, Red Panda, Himalayan Musk Deer, and Blue Sheep.
There’s a wonderful sense of accomplishment upon arriving at Base Camp. Views of numerous other mountains, especially Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Mount Everest, can be seen from this spot. It is something that stays with you for the rest of your life, with the backdrop of the magnificent Himalayan range.
[ For beginners you will also have the option to choose: Everest base camp trek with helicopter return ]
Can Beginners Do the Everest Base Camp Trek?
The answer is yes if you’re one of those people who wonders if beginners can complete the Everest base camp trip. A family with small children has successfully reached the base camp. Do not be frightened if you are a novice! Anyone who is willing to explore and has a strong desire for adventure can do this with enough planning and preparation. It’s critical for beginners to be both mentally as well as physically prepared.
Everest Base Camp Trek Itinerary For Beginners Trekkers
Everest Base Camp Trek can be completed in 10 -14 days. Here is the standard 14 Days Itinerary especailly designed for the beginners trekkers.
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
- Activities: Arrive in the capital city of Nepal. You will be greeted by our representative from Eco Nepal Trekkers. Then on our private vehicle you will be taken to the 4 start hotel booked by us. After you checked in hotel you can wither spend the day by resting, exploring local markets, or visiting UNESCO Heritage Sites such as Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath Temple, Baudhanath.
- Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu
Day 2: Fly to Lukla and Trek to Phakding
- Flight: Take a scenic and thrilling domestic flight takes you from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,850m) early in the morning.
- Trek: After you land in the lukla airport you will welcomed by trekking Guide and porter. Then you’ll begin your trek to the village of Phakding (2,610m), which takes about 3-4 hours.
- Highlights: Enjoy stunning views of the surrounding hills and lush landscapes.
- Overnight: Lodge in Phakding
Day 3: Phakding to Namche Bazaar
- Trek: The trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m) involves a 5-6 hour hike. As you ascend, the landscape becomes more dramatic, with the Dudh Koshi River by your side.
- Highlights: Cross suspension bridges and enjoy your first views of Everest.
- Overnight: Tea house in Namche
Day 4: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar
- Activities: Spend the day acclimatizing to the altitude. Take a short hike to the Everest View Hotel for breathtaking panoramas or visit the local Sherpa museum.
- Overnight: Tea house in Namche
Day 5: Namche to Tengboche
- Trek: Leaving Namche, trek for 5-6 hours to reach Tengboche (3,860m). This place is home to the famous Tengboche Monastery.
- Highlights: Visit the monastery and enjoy stunning views of Ama Dablam and other peaks.
- Overnight: Tea house in Tengboche
Day 6: Tengboche to Dingboche
- Trek: Continue your trek to Dingboche (4,410m) in a journey lasting about 5-6 hours.
- Highlights: Enjoy expansive views and experience diverse vegetation.
- Overnight: Tea House in Dingboche
Day 7: Acclimatization Day in Dingboche
- Activities: Spend this day acclimatizing. A recommended hike is to Nagarjun Hill for panoramic views of the Himalayas.
- Overnight: Tea house in Dingboche
Day 8: Dingboche to Lobuche
- Trek: Trek to Lobuche (4,940m), which takes around 5-6 hours.
- Highlights: You will pass through the Thukla Pass, where you can see memorials of climbers who lost their lives on Everest.
- Overnight: Tea house in Lobuche
Day 9: Lobuche to Everest Base Camp, then to Gorak Shep
- Trek: Early morning start trekking towards Everest Base Camp (5,364m). Today journey will be about 7-8 hours round trip. After exploring the base camp you will return to Gorak Shep (5,164m) for an overnight stay.
- Highlights: Reach the base camp and enjoy the incredible views of the Khumbu Icefall and Khumbu Glacier.
- Overnight: Tea house in Gorak Shep
Day 10: Morning Hike to Kala Patthar and Descend to Pheriche
- Early Morning Trek: Ascend to Kala Patthar (5,545m) for the iconic sunrise view over Everest.
- Trek: Descend to Pheriche (4,371m), which takes about 7-8 hours.
- Overnight: Tea house in Pheriche
Day 11: Pheriche to Namche Bazaar
- Trek: Retrace your steps back to Namche, which takes about 6-7 hours.
- Highlights: Enjoy the beauty of the trail once again.
- Overnight: Tea house in Namche
Day 12: Namche to Lukla
- Trek: Begin your descent back to Lukla, which takes about 7 hours.
- Celebratory Evening: Revel in the accomplishment of your trek with your trekking group.
- Overnight: Tea house in Lukla
Day 13: Fly back to Kathmandu
- Flight: Take a morning flight back to Kathmandu.
- Activities: Spend your day shopping or relaxing in the city.
- Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu
Day 14: Departure from Kathmandu
- Activities: Depending on your flight schedule, you might have time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing before heading to the airport. Our representative will drop you to the airport on private vehicle.
Everest Base Camp Trek Map With Altitude for Beginners
How to Reach Lukla : The Starting Point of Everest Base Camp Trek
The journey of Everest Base Camp trek begins from the Lukla. There are various ways to reach lukla and the most common way is by taking the short and thrilling flight from Kathmandu to Lukla in small domestic airport which has a seat capacity of aournd 15 passenger.
On average it take around 35 minutes to reach Lukla Airport from the Tribhuvan International Airport. Lukla airport which is also known as Tenzing-Hillary Aiport is situated at the alitude of 2,846 m in Khumbu Pasanglhamu, Solukhumbu District, Koshi Province of Nepal.
This world dangerous airport is surround by the towering hills and has a small runway. Because of its challenging location, perfect weather conditions are crucial for safe landings and takeoffs. To ensure the highest level of safety for everyone concerned, flights are only conducted during acceptable weather conditions. Flights are more difficult to secure during peak season due to the large number of visitors. We strongly advise purchasing your plane tickets well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Note: During high season, the Aviation Authority diverts flights, so you have to arrive at the Manthali airport first and then take a Ramechapp flight to Lukla. We suggest adding an extra day to your trekking itinerary for the Everset base camp trek because there is a high likelihood of a delayed or cancelled Lincoln aircraft in the event of bad weather.
Know More about Lukla Flight: Kathmandu/Ramechhap to Lukla Flight Information
How to Get Tourist Visa For the Everest Base Camp Trek
Beginners trekkers should be aware that a tourist visa is required for trekking in Nepal. Although Nepal provides a variety of visa alternatives, the following are the most pertinent for trekkers:
On Arrival Visa: Upon arriving at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport, most nationalities can obtain this visa.
Embassy Visa: You can apply at a Nepalese embassy or consulate in your native country if you would rather obtain your visa in advance.
Duration and Fees for Tourist Visa
In Nepal, visas for tourists can be obtained for 15, 30, or 90 days. Here are the fees to review:
- Visa for 15 days: $30
- Visa for 30-day: $50
- Visa for 90 days: $125
If you choose to extend your stay or take additional time for your trek, you can do so at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu.
Note: For Online Visa Application click here: https://www.immigration.gov.np/en/page/visa-on-arrival
Required Permit For the EBC Trek
The Sagarmatha National Park, where the Everest base camp trek is located, is home to many endangered plant and animal species.To protect the park’s natural beauty while also managing the influx of tourists, conservation principles and responsibility for the environment must be followed. By doing this, you not only get to experience the amazing majesty of this natural environment, but you also help preserve it for future generations.
For this reason Goverenment of Nepal allows trekkers only trek to EBC when they have Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit. You can get this permit on your own or with the asistance of trekking agency.
- Sagarmatha national park permit cost for foregineers: NPR. 3,000(plus 13% VAT) per person
- Sagarmatha national park permit cost for SAARC citizen: NPR. 1,500( plus 13% VAT) per person.
- Sagarmatha national park permit cost for Nepalese citizen: NPR. 100
- Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit cost: NPR 3,000 per person.
Further reading: Everest Base Camp Trek Permit
Importance of Travel Insurance For Everest Base Camp Trek
Trekkers need to purchase travel insurance to provide coverage for emergencies, medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen events during their Everest base camp trek. Another crucial consideration when purchasing travel insurance is to ensure it includes helicopter evacuation coverage. Given that Everest Base Camp is located in the remote Solukhumbu district, road transportation for rescue from the hiking trail is often not feasible.
Everest Base Camp Trek Challenges and Difficulties For Beginners
Trekking to Everest Base Camp is a thrilling experience, especially for beginners. But it offers its own set of difficulties and challenges:
Altitude Sickness
The Everest base camp hike brings you to the highest point of Kala Patthar, which stands at 5,644 metres (18,519 feet). The best spot to see the stunning sunrise over the Himalayas is from Kala Patthar. While walking at such high alitude beginners trekkers can experience alitude sickness.
While the early symptoms of altitude sickness are easily treated, if they persist, altitude sickness may become potentially fatal. Therefore, beginners trekkers must understand the symptoms of altitude sickness and learn how to prevent them.
Unpredictable Weather Conditions
In the Everest Region, the high altitudes are snowy and chilly. Trekkers may find it challenging to adjust to extremely cold conditions brought on by bad weather, particularly for beginners trekkers. The success of the journey is greatly influenced by the weather. As a result, it’s critical to familiarize yourself with the seasonal variations in the Himalayan weather and to make plans for unforeseen weather.
Extensive Length
The trek to Everest base camp will take you approximately 130 kilometers (80 miles) total. Trekkers must walk on rough terrain and rocky paths for an average of 4-6 hours per day to accomplish such a distance. You need strong legs and a high level of endurance to walk nonstop for extended periods of time while wearing the backpack. Beginners trekkers may find it challenging to walk for extended periods of time in challenging terrain and altitude, therefore they needs to be healthy and fit.
Limited Facilities
Evrest base camp is also a world class tea house trek in the Khumbu Region. Beginners trekkers can find lots of accomondation in the trekking route of Everest base camp trek. However it might not be as luxury as you can find in the city hotel.
Crowded Trails
It can be challenging to get lodging in the tea house during the busiest time of year because of the large number of passengers on the trekking trail. Additionally, accessing the tea house’s amenities could take longer. Therefore, the first step for beginners trekkers is to reserve their lodging in advance.
Physical and Mental Challenge
Trekkers who wish to complete the Everest base camp trek successfully must be in good physical and mental health. Beginners trekkers must learn how to deal with challenging terrain and elevations. An additional level of difficulty is added by the physical exertion at high elevations. Trekkers should mentally prepare for unforeseen events and weather that isn’t expected.
How Beginners Should Prepare for the Everest Base Camp Trek
For beginners trekking in the Everest region for more than two weeks while staying in the tea house is not as easy as you think. For a successful trip, you need to prepare 2-3 months in advance before you book the trek. To mitigate risks and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience here are some of the important tips that you need to follow:
Maintain Physical Fitness
Beginners trekkers need to start a regular exercise routine at least 3-6 months before the trek. Also, beginners should focus on cardiovascular exercises like hiking, running, cycling, and stair climbing to build endurance.
Also, you can join a gym or do yoga to strengthen your legs, core, and upper body, which will help you handle the demanding terrain. Improving physical fitness helps to simulate the physical demands of trekking at high altitudes.
Learn Altitude Sickness & Acclimatization
Another important step that helps beginners should do is to learn about alitude sickness and have proper acclimitization. It is to maintain safety and reduce altitude sickness and other health-related problems. Always choose an itinerary that has proper acclimatization and avoid taking shortcuts.
Stay hydrated all the time and avoid alcohol and tobacco which can trigger altitude sickness. Take enough rest during the acclimatization, sleep well, and monitor your health all the time. Consider taking altitude sickness medication such as acetazolamide (Diamox) as a preventive measure, but only under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Read more: Altitude Sickness During EBC Trek
Choose the Best Time for the Everest Base Camp Trek
For beginners, you should understand that the chances of successful rate become higher if you trek at a suitable time. Suitable time means during the month of the spring and the autumn seasons. Compared to winter and monsoon, the weather during the spring and autumn seasons is generally more stable, and the temperatures are moderate.
Also, there will be a lower risk of flight cancellations or delays due to adverse weather. This makes hiking more enjoyable and reduces the risk of extreme cold-related illnesses and the occurrence of natural disasters like flash floods, landslides, and avalanches.
Read more: Best Time For Everest Base Camp Trek
Choose Proper Gear and Equipment
Beginners should invest in high-quality gear and equipment to protect themselves, taking into account the season and conditions. If you don’t want to spend more on the gear and equipment you can also take in rent here in Nepal.
Related article: Nepal Trekking Packing List
Choose licensed Trekking Agencies
The best way to trek Everest base camp is through the help of licensed trekking agencies in Nepal. While choosing the trekking agencies check whether they are registered under the Nepal Tourism Board or not.
The benefit of choosing the right trekking agency is that they will manage all ground transportation, provide licensed guides and porters, and help maintain safety throughout the trek while following sustainable tourism practices. Hence we recommend beginners trekkers to trek only with the asistance of Trekking agency.
Hire Liscensed Guide & Porter
Beginners should understand that as per the new trekking rules set by the Nepal Tourism Board, you cannot do the solo trek in Nepal including Everset Base Camp Trek. You need to hire a liscensed trekking Guide with you for Everest base camp trek.
Many incidents occur when trekking alone, so these new guidelines were implemented to ensure the safety of the trekkers. Your trekking guide will be there to help you if something goes wrong on the way and to make sure you reach Base Camp safely. Their knowledge and support will go a long way toward making your hike safe and pleasant.
For the Everest Base Camp journey, we additionally suggest beginners trekkers to hire a porter along with to their guide. Your heavy bag will be handled by a porter, relieving you of an additional physical weight so you can concentrate on the hike and take in the breathtaking surroundings. Your journey may be more pleasurable and pleasant with this assistance.
- Guide Hire for Everest base camp trek will cost you 30 USD
- Porter Hire for Everest base camp trek will cost you 20-22 USD
- Guide cum porter hire for Everest base camp trek will cost you 25 USD
Continue Reading: Hire Guide and Porter for the Everest Base Camp Trek
Cultural Sensitivity and Sustainable Tourism
Trekking in the Everest region takes you through Sherpa villages and Buddhist monasteries, where it’s crucial to respect local culture, customs, traditions, and religious beliefs. While staying in the tea houses follow all their rules and regulations.
Also, the responsibility of tourists is to minimize their impact on the environment during the trek. This includes avoiding harm to plants and animals while trekking in Sagarmatha National Park and adhering to the “leave no trace” policy, ensuring that the natural surroundings remain pristine for future visitors to enjoy.
How Much a Beginners Should Budget for the Everest Base Camp Trek?
Another important thing that beginners trekkers should manage for the Everest Base Camp trek is proper budgeting. On average the total cost for the Everest base camp trek package will cost you 1200$- 2700$. The cost of the package depends upon the various facilities like trekking agencies service, transportation you choose, lodging and food, and many more.
Except for the trek package, you need to manage the budget for travel insurance, international flights, tips, domestic flights, buying souvenirs, etc. This thing will not be included in the package. Therefore while booking the package check what is included and what is not included in the trekking package.
Which Currency to Carry for Everest Base Camp Trekking
The Nepalese Rupee (NPR) is the country’s official currency. During your trip to Everest Base Camp, it is recommended that you use NPR especially. The best method to make sure your transactions go successfully is to use Nepalese Rupees, even though some places could accept other currencies.
Why Beginners Trekker Should Avoid Using Foreign Currency?
In major towns, certain shops, lodging facilities, and dining establishments could take US dollars or euros, however depending too much on foreign money can result in high costs or unfavorable exchange rates. Along the trekking path, you’ll come across little hamlet businesses that typically only take NPR. Using local money also supports the local economy, as local guides and porters are usually paid in Nepalese Rupees.
Where and How to Get Nepalese Rupees
Currency Exchange or Bank: Currency exchange services in Kathmandu are available if you would rather exchange money in cash. There are many locations that will exchange British pounds, euros, and US dollars for Nepali Rupees. We advise beginners trekkes to make sure to verify the conversion rates as well as any additional fees.
ATMs in Kathmandu: The easiest way to get Nepalese Rupees (NPR) is by withdrawing them from ATMs in Kathmandu. Most major banks and ATMs will dispense cash in NPR. It’s a quick and convenient method, but keep in mind that there’s usually a bank fee of 300-500 NPR per transaction.
How Safe Is The Everest Base Camp Trek Route For Beginners?
The Everest Base Camp trek route is highly traveled and with a large number of people arriving every year. With teahouses, local guides, and clearly designated paths, the infrastructure for trekkers has significantly improved in recent years, making navigational difficulties rare. There are enough of basic facilities along the trail, such as food and lodging, so hikers don’t have to worry about anything other than enjoying the amazing beauty and the adventure.
No matter whether you are a Solo, Female or beginners trekkers, everyone can feel safe while trekking in this area as there aren’t many significant crime incidents. Sherpa people who stay here are well recognized for their exceptional friendliness and willingness to go above and beyond to support hikers. Many backpackers return from their expedition with relationships in addition to memories of breathtaking scenery.
Why Beginners Trekkers Should Choose the Everest Base Camp Trek with ECO Nepal Trekkers
Experienced Guide
Selecting ECO Nepal Trekkers guarantees that hikers will be accompanied by professional and experienced guides who are well-versed in both hiking safety and the particular difficulties the Everest base camp trek offers. Their understanding of the landscape, the climate, and native wildlife and plants greatly improves the trekking experience. They are also skilled at preventing altitude sickness and providing first aid.
Personalized Experienc
It’s possible that not every beginners trekker is at the same level of fitness. We are able to provide our clients with a customized Everest base camp trek itinerary by evaluating their level of physical condition and interests.
Comprehensive Assistance
Trekkers from Eco Nepal will take care of all the necessary arrangements for the Everest base camp trek, including trekking permits, lodging, meals, transportation, logistics, and more. After beginning their journey with us, beginners are unlikely to experience any headaches.
Best For Solo/Group/Friends/Family
We offer the same level of service to everyone who joins us, regardless of skill level or preference for hiking alone, in a group, with friends, or with family.
Facility of Side Trips
If the hikers would like to add an extra journey after the Everest base camp trek is finished, that is also possible with us. Additionally, you can include sightseeing, cultural tours, heritage tours, or adventurous activities like paragliding, rafting, bunjee jumping, and so on.
Eco-Friendly Practices
ECO Nepal Trekkers is an organization that promotes environmentally environmentally friendly practices such as waste recycling and energy conservation. By selecting us, you assist local communities and contribute to preserving the breathtaking Himalayan scenery. Our dedication to sustainability guarantees that your trek will have a beneficial effect on the environment in addition to being unforgettable.
Affordable Everest Base Camp Trek Package & Special Discount
Compared to most other trekking adventures in Nepal, our trekking pack is more reasonably priced. Our trekkers’ safety and comfort will never be compromised, not even at a reasonable price. The greatest benefit of making an Everest base camp trek reservation with us is that large groups are eligible for exceptional discounts. There will be no any hidden cost.
Expertise and Evucation Plan
Eco Nepal Trekkers has been conducting the Everest base camp trek for many years and has also successfully accompanied beginners. Our team’s knowledge in this industry is extensive, and your safety is our first priority.
How To Book Everest Base Camp Trek With ECO Nepal Trekkers
Are you prepared to book a Everest base camp trek or do you still have questions? Our mission is to help you create an amazing journey. Visit us at Eco Nepal Trekkers on Amar Chitrakar Marg in Kathmandu. Contact us via email at [email protected] or via phone at +977-9813322433.
- Email: [email protected]
- Mobile: +977-9813322433
- Phone: +1-254-910-1758 [ For US Citizen ]
- WhatsApp/Viber/IMO: +977-9813322433
Final Say
Everest base camp treks is one of the iconic destinations that you should trek once in your lifetime whether you are trekking for the first time or a mountain expert. This trek takes you to heart of the Mount Everest and watching close the world’s highest mountain in the world is beyond the imagination.
The Everest Base Camp trek is more than just walking in the mountain region; it takes you close to natural beauty, where you can witness the power of nature and learn from its magnificence.
We hope that this blog Everest Base Camp Trek for Beginners helps you to prepare for your journey to the Everest base camp. If you have any inquiries regarding the trek and want to book the Everest base camp trek then you can contact us.
We, Eco Nepal Trekkers, are a registered trekking agency with extensive experience leading treks to Everest Base Camp over a long period. We prioritize affordability without compromising on quality. Our commitment is to ensure that your trek is unforgettable, enjoyable, and safe no matter whether you are beginners trekker or seasonal trekker.