Everest Base Camp trek is undoubtedly the most popular trek in Nepal with thousands of people trekking every year. People from all around the world come to trek in Everest region among which very few make it to summit.
Everest Base Camp is at an altitude of 17,600 ft ( 5,380 m ) which is already higher than many mountains.
There are no roads and only way to reach there is by trekking or by helicopter. Hiring helicopter is expensive so people prefer to trek.
But it should be known that trekking to Everest Base Camp is not difficult as climbing the mountain itself. People with relatively good fitness and a firm set of mind can easily make to the Base Camp. We have seen some old age people and younger ones doing this trek each year.
That being said there are some difficulties along the way. Factors like altitude, trek duration and climate can can be counted as difficulties to reach Everest Base Camp.
Everest base camp trek difficulty
Altitude
Altitude is real when you are trekking in this region. Your journey start from an high altitude region of Lukla ( 2,860 m ) and you have to reach at an altitude of 5,380 m. Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) should not be taken lightly in this region, it can cause serious problems.
The trek begins from Lukla which is already high enough for AMS. You have to acclimatize to this altitude, so you have to consult your tour operator to set few acclimatization days.
Altitude will not be a problem if you cover less grounds and rest more. The key is to go slow and acclimatize yourself with the altitude.
You can consult doctors and take prescribed medicine in this journey.
Duration of the Trek
The Everest Base Camp trek is usually for 14 days or more. But you can extend to your choice.
The trek requires on average 5 to 6 hours of walking each day. If you are an experience trekker it may take you less but for beginners the number will be higher. Apart from that AMS plays an important role on trekking duration so you should be careful and take your time in this region.
Weather And Temperature
In the mountains the weather can get unpredictable at times. But there are some seasons which make the trek less difficult. Spring and autumn are the peak season and the popular ones. Trekking during this time of the year is a lot easier.
Spring season in Nepal starts from March and ends in May. This is one of the most popular seasons to go trekking in Nepal. The spring provides incredible views of landscapes.
The temperature during daytime in spring is about 15-degree Celsius while at night it may drop to 0-degree Celsius.
Autumn is the other most popular season to go trekking. Autumn begins in September and ends in November. The best part about autumn trek is the clear skies and crisp view of the mountains which will take your breath away.
During Spring and Autumn, the paths are less slippery and there is a very low chance of rain. So, these seasons are suitable for the trekkers looking for an easier alternative.
The Monsoon starts in June and ends in August. There are chances of rainfall during these months. The paths can get quite slippery. But, they won’t be much of a problem if you have the right gear.
The winter months start from December and ends in February in Nepal. This season is a bit more difficult because of the drop in temperature. There is a lot of snowfall during the winter.
Everest Base Camp Trek Itinerary
Day 01: Pick up from Airport and drive to your hotel (1,300m/4,264 ft)
Day 02: Half day sightseeing tour of Kathmandu
Day 03: Fly to Lukla from Kathmandu Airport and trek to Phakding (2,651m/8,700ft)(8km) (3 – 4 hours)
Day 04: Phakding to Namche Bazaar Trek (3,438m/11,280 ft): 11km, 5 – 6 hours
Day 05: Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,284ft
Day 06: Trek to Tengboche (3,870m/12,694ft): 10km, (5 – 6 hours)
Day 07: Trek to Dingboche (4,360 m/14,300 ft): 9km, 5 – 6 hours
Day 08:Acclimatization at Dingboche
Day 09: Trek to Lobuche (4940 m/16,207 ft): 7km, 5-6 hours
Day 10: Trek to Gorak Shep (5,170 m/16,961ft), visit Everest Base Camp (5,364 m/17,594 ft): 13km, 6-7 hours
Day 11: Trek to Kala Patthar (5,545m/18,192ft) to Pheriche (4,288m/14,070ft): 16km, 7-8 hours
Day 12: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,280 ft): 20km, 6 – 7 hours
Day 13: Flight from Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,860m/9,186ft): 19km, 6 – 7 hours
Day 14: Fly back to Kathmandu from Lukla
Day 15: Final Departure
Conclusion
Everest base camp trek is most popular trek in Nepal. Every year thousands of people trek in this region to have some adventurous time with nature. You will be able to view some mesmerizing peaks, amazing green forest and can experience hospitality and culture.
Along with the beauty, Everest Base Camp trek has it’s own risk but with proper guidance and firm set of mind anyone can complete the Everest Base Camp Trek with ease.
If you have any questions regarding Everest Base Camp, you are always free to contact us.
