Everest Base Camp Trek - 12 Days

Trekking to one of the highest altitudes would be a great idea and adventurous, wouldn’t it? So, if you are an adventure lover, then 12 Days Everest Base Camp Trek Package is the best option to go. This package is considered as a best option because of its cost/price and perfect Itinerary.

Taking a 12 Days Everest Base Camp Trek is a spectacular way to manifest this dream and make it come to life. From rookies to experienced trekkers, this incredible journey has something for everyone. You have the chance to take on a wild filled with unknowns, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned expert. From beginners to veterans, this experience will be nothing short of fantastic. With so much excitement and surprises held in store, you can relish the sheer thrill of this beautiful escapade.

Your Everest Base Camp Trek begins in Lukla as you become ready to tackle the incredible mountain trails before you. With every step, the stunning beauty and tranquil aura of the Himalayas will be revealed. Wander past the cascading hillsides, inhaling the fresh, quiet mountain air. Exchange cheerful pleasantries with the local inhabitants and share a genuine smile with those you meet. This is an invitation to get up close and personal with mother nature's most majestic creation, as your path eventually brings you face-to-face with the highest peak on Earth- Mount Everest. An experience you will cherish forever.

The daunting Everest symbolizes power and tenacity, commanding admiration from afar and awe from those brave enough to venture its treacherous path within. Tracing the holy lands to its base camp is an unforgettable journey that provides a lifetime of memories. With every twist and turn comes a new landscape to feast on - lush forests, local Sherpa settlements, glacial moraines, and never-ending stretches of foothills. All of this converges to make this journey a breathtaking experience, sometimes called the stairway to paradise.

The renowned Everest Base Camp has been a haven sought out by daredevil travelers and thrill-seekers who seek to take on the unnerving Himalayas. Despite the dramatic 2015 earthquake that shook Nepal, the resolute strength of the people never faltered, and intrepid adventurers still upheld their ambitious quest to reach the top. On average, roughly 30,000 resolute trip-makers yearly make the trek, which surges to over 10,000 during the peak trekking season. The innumerable trekkers have benefited from the trail, making it well-trodden and providing it with top-notch facilities that can compete with other trails in Nepal.

Our Related packages to EBC trek : 7 Days EBC trek | Everest Cho La pass Gokyo trek |  Everest Luxury Trek

Highlights of 12 Days Everest Base Camp Trek 2025/2026

• Stunning Mountain Views: The 12 Days Everest Base Camp Trek will give you the insights of 360 degree view of several peaks like Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam.
• Kala Patthar: You will be at the viewpoint of Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, located at an altitude of 5,555 meters. It is a popular viewpoint for stunning panoramic views of Mount Everest and the surrounding peaks.
• Tengboche Monastery: During the 12 Days' Everest Base Camp trek, you will be able to experience some Buddhist monasteries including Tengboche Monastery.
• Sherpa Culture: While you are on the trek, you will be passing across several Sherpa settlements including Gorakhsep and others. These places provide a glimpse into Sherpa's unique culture, lifestyle, and traditions.
• Sagarmatha National Park: Your 12 Days Everest Base Camp Trek passes through the Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including rare Himalayan species like the snow leopard and red panda.

Why Trek to Everest Base Camp?

The allure of trekking to Everest Base Camp (EBC) lies not only in reaching the base of the world’s highest mountain but also in the rich cultural, scenic, and personal growth opportunities it provides:

• Breathtaking Views: Along the way, trekkers are treated to panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and other towering peaks.

• Monasteries and Spirituality: Along the trek, you’ll encounter sacred monasteries like Tengboche, where you can witness traditional rituals and connect with the spiritual essence of the region.

• Personal Achievement: Standing at 5,364 meters (17,598 feet), reaching EBC is a personal triumph for many adventurers.

• Challenging Trek: The Everest Base Camp Trek is physically demanding but non-technical, making it accessible to experienced trekkers and ambitious beginners alike. The rugged terrain, high-altitude trekking, and unpredictable weather conditions add an element of adventure and challenge to the journey.

• Historic Trail: The route to Everest Base Camp is the same trail that legendary climbers like Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay followed during their expedition to the summit of Everest in 1953. Walking in the footsteps of these mountaineering pioneers adds a sense of legacy and historical significance to the trek.

Best Everest Base Camp Trek itinerary and package for 2025-2026

The 12-day Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek itinerary is considered one of the best options among various EBC trekking packages for several important reasons. It strikes the perfect balance between acclimatization, trekking pace, and time efficiency. Here’s why the 12-day itinerary stands out:

1. Sufficient Time for Acclimatization

• Altitude Management: The key to a successful trek to Everest Base Camp is proper acclimatization. The 12-day itinerary includes at least two dedicated acclimatization days—typically in Namche Bazaar (3,440m) and Dingboche (4,410m). These stops help trekkers gradually adjust to the increasing altitude, significantly reducing the risk of altitude sickness (Acute Mountain Sickness or AMS).

• Avoids Rushing: Shorter itineraries, such as 7 or 8-day treks, can rush the ascent, which increases the risk of altitude sickness. The 14-day plan allows a steadier and more comfortable pace, improving safety and enjoyment.

2. Balanced Trekking Pace

• Moderate Daily Walking Distances: In the 12-day itinerary, trekkers cover an average of 5-7 hours of walking per day, which is manageable for most trekkers, even those with moderate fitness levels. The balanced walking pace ensures you have enough time to take in the incredible scenery without feeling exhausted at the end of each day.

• More Time to Explore: The extra days in key locations like Namche Bazaar and Dingboche give you more time to explore the villages, interact with the local Sherpa culture, visit monasteries, and enjoy scenic hikes for acclimatization, such as the hike to Everest View Hotel or Chhukung Valley.

3. Covers All Major Highlights

• Complete Experience: The 12-day itinerary covers all major highlights of the EBC trek, including:
  • Sagarmatha National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site with diverse flora and fauna.
  • Namche Bazaar: The vibrant Sherpa town and the cultural heart of the Everest region.
  • Tengboche Monastery: One of the most important Buddhist monasteries in the region, offering spiritual and scenic richness.
  • Kala Patthar: The best vantage point for an up-close view of Mt. Everest. This is the highest altitude gained by the trekkers in this trip. Where, the height of the Kalapathar (Kalapatthar) is 5545m/18192ft.
  • Everest Base Camp: The ultimate goal, where trekkers experience the thrill of standing at the base of the world’s highest peak. Where, the height of Everest Base Camp is 5364m/17594ft.

4. Avoids Fatigue and Burnout

• More Rest and Recovery Time: A well-planned 12-day itinerary includes plenty of time for rest and recovery. After long trekking days, your body needs time to recover, and this itinerary ensures that you don’t feel rushed or burned out before reaching Everest Base Camp.

• Better for Beginners: For trekkers who are not seasoned hikers or aren’t familiar with high-altitude trekking, the 12-day trek offers a more gradual introduction to the experience, making it ideal for both first-time trekkers and seasoned adventurers.

5. Time Efficient but Not Too Short

• Optimal Duration: The 12-day itinerary is a time-efficient option, especially for trekkers with limited vacation time, without compromising on the experience. It’s long enough to ensure acclimatization and enjoyment but doesn’t extend unnecessarily, as longer packages (17-21 days) might include side trips or longer rest periods, which aren’t always necessary for everyone.

6. Flexible for Weather and Unforeseen Delays

• Weather Buffer: The 12-day itinerary provides flexibility in case of unforeseen weather conditions, particularly at Lukla, where flights can be delayed due to bad weather. Having an extra day or two built into the schedule allows for contingencies without drastically altering the trek.

7. Good Value for Time and Money

• Cost-Effective: The 12-day trek offers a complete EBC experience at a cost that’s typically more affordable than longer packages. Since you cover all the important highlights and have enough acclimatization time, it provides excellent value for your money and time compared to shorter or more extended treks.

8. Ideal for Group Treks

• Group-Friendly: Most trekking companies organize group treks following the 12-day itinerary. This standard duration makes it easier for solo trekkers to join a group and make new friends along the way, creating a sense of community.

9. Customization Options

• Flexibility for Extensions: While the 12-day itinerary is comprehensive, it still offers the flexibility to customize your trek. You can add side trips to places like Gokyo Lakes, or extend your stay at key locations if desired. Conversely, if weather or personal preferences call for it, you can reduce rest days without compromising the overall trek.

Difficulties of the 12-day Everest Base Camp Trek

The 12-day Everest Base Camp Trek is a rewarding adventure but comes with its challenges that trekkers should prepare for:

1. Altitude: Reaching a maximum elevation of 5,545 meters (18,192 feet) at Kala Patthar, the trek exposes you to the risk of altitude sickness. Proper acclimatization days in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche are included in the itinerary to help your body adjust.
2. Physical Demands: This trek involves long daily hikes, often ranging from 4 to 8 hours over uneven, rocky terrain. A good fitness level and endurance are essential to complete the trek comfortably.
3. Weather Conditions: The weather in the Himalayas can be unpredictable. You may encounter cold temperatures, especially at higher altitudes, and sudden weather changes that could affect trekking conditions.
4. Basic Facilities: While luxury accommodations are provided where possible, some tea houses in remote areas may have limited amenities, especially at higher altitudes.
5. Isolation: As you move further into the Khumbu region, you’ll be in remote areas with fewer access points for assistance, making proper preparation crucial.

Despite these challenges, careful planning, professional guidance, and a well-structured itinerary, like ours at The Great Adventure Treks & Expedition, can make this trek a safe and unforgettable journey.

Best Time and Season to Trek to Everest Base Camp

The best time to trek to Everest Base Camp (EBC) is during two key seasons: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). These periods offer the most favorable weather and trekking conditions. Let’s explore why these seasons are ideal:

1. Spring (March to May)

• Weather: Spring is one of the most popular times to trek to EBC. The temperatures are moderate, and the weather is generally stable. Days are warm at lower altitudes, and while nights can be cold, they are manageable with proper gear.

• Clear Views: Spring offers relatively clear skies, particularly in April and May. This is a great time for unobstructed views of Everest and other towering peaks like Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Nuptse.

• Rhododendron Blooms: One of the highlights of trekking in spring is the colorful rhododendron blooms, which transform the lower-altitude landscapes into vibrant displays of red, pink, and white flowers.

• Climbing Season: Late spring is also the peak season for mountaineers attempting to summit Everest. Trekking in this period allows you to witness the activity at Everest Base Camp as teams prepare for their ascents.

2. Autumn (September to November)

• Weather: After the summer monsoon rains, autumn brings stable and dry weather. September can still have some residual rains, but from October onwards, the skies are clear, and the days are sunny. Temperatures are cooler than in spring but not as cold as in winter.

• Best Visibility: Autumn is widely considered the best time for crystal-clear mountain views. The post-monsoon air is crisp, offering breathtaking visibility of the snow-capped peaks and glaciers.

• Festive Vibe: Autumn is also the time for major Nepali festivals like Dashain and Tihar, which provide trekkers with a chance to experience the vibrant local culture and celebrations in villages along the trail.

Other Seasons: Winter and Monsoon

While Spring and Autumn are the best times, some trekkers opt for other seasons depending on their preferences:

3. Winter (December to February)

• Cold Temperatures: Winter trekking is possible but challenging due to cold temperatures, especially at higher altitudes. Daytime temperatures can still be bearable, but nights can drop well below freezing.

• Fewer Crowds: If you prefer solitude and are comfortable with cold weather, winter offers a more peaceful trekking experience with fewer trekkers on the trail.

• Snow: Expect snow at higher altitudes, which can make the trek more difficult but also more scenic.

4. Monsoon (June to August)

• Rain and Muddy Trails: The monsoon season brings heavy rains, particularly at lower altitudes. Trails can be slippery and muddy, making the trek more challenging.

• Cloudy Skies: Views of the mountains are often obscured by clouds and mist, which can be disappointing for those hoping to see Everest.

• Fewer Trekkers: However, the trails are much less crowded, and if you don’t mind the rain, you’ll have a more secluded experience. Additionally, the lush, green landscapes in the lower regions are a sight to behold.

Best Month For Everest Base Camp Trek

The best month for trekking to Everest Base Camp is during the Spring and Autumn. The months during the Spring; March to May are mild and temperate with less clouds and clear skies. It is the best time to view the surroundings of EBC clearly. Also, the temperature is not too cold and not too hot, so you will not have any trouble adjusting.

Similarly, the Autumn season from September to November is also considered best. These months also have pleasant weather with less clouds and temperate climate.

Benefits of Trekking Everest Base Camp During Different Months

Advantages of Trekking Everest Base Camp During March:

March brings a pleasant environment with jaw-dropping surroundings of snow-capped mountains and green forest. The temperature is moderate ranging between 2 to 7 degree celsius in Everest Base Camp in the daytime. However, when the darkness hits, the temperature gradually slows down but with proper gears, you can adjust the environment.

Besides, the weather is stable and the rain precipitation is low, that makes EBC more accessible during March.

Advantages of trekking Everest Base Camp during April:

April is the first month in the pre-monsoon season, and is generally considered the best time for trekking in Nepal as the weather is warm and dry. The days are also longer and warmer, making it easier to cover ground.

Advantages of trekking Everest Base Camp during May:

May is still considered to be a good time to trek in Nepal as the weather is still dry and warm. However, it is important to note that by this time, the days are getting shorter and colder.

Advantages of trekking Everest Base Camp During September

September comes with the average temperature of 15-20 degrees celsius around Everest base Camp. The weather conditions and temperature of EBC in September are mild and pleasant with less clouds and clear skies. Similarly, September has no rainfalls or snowfalls in the region, which makes the trekkers more accessible to the place.

Advantages of trekking Everest Base Camp during October:

October is the beginning of the post-monsoon season and is considered by many to be one of the best times to go on an Everest Base Camp Trek. The weather is typically dry and clear, with crisp mountain air and breathtaking views.

Advantages of trekking Everest Base Camp during November:

November is usually still a good time for trekking in Nepal, with dry weather and clear skies. However, by this time, temperatures have started to drop significantly at higher altitudes, so it’s important to come prepared with suitable clothing.

Things To Consider For 12 Days Everest Base Camp Trek

If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring the thrill and challenge of a high-altitude trek to Everest Base Camp, then you’re not alone. This 12 Days Everest base camp trek is an amazing journey that takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers stunning views of Mount Everest and the Himalayan peaks.

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast eager to experience this incredible trek, then you should know what to expect. Here are some of the details that you should consider before taking 12 Days Everest Base Camp Trek:

Fitness Level

12 Days Everest Base Camp Trek will take you to the high altitude over 5000 meters above sea level, which means that it will be more challenging than your survival in the normal altitudes. The air will be thinner and the oxygen levels lower. Also, you will be trekking for hours day by day, for which you will have to be in good physical shape – your endurance, energy, and strength are the three factors that are very essential here. Therefore, it’s important for you to be physically fit before embarking on this trek. You can practice trekking short hikes and participate in immunity gaining physical exercises, so you will be ready for the 12 Days Everest Base Camp Trek.

Altitude Sickness

Altitude Sickness is another thing that you should consider for 12 Days Everest Base Camp Trek. The risk of altitude sickness increases with altitude and EBC is above 5000 meters, which means that trekkers are more prone to altitude related illness. It’s important to understand the symptoms of altitude sickness and to take proper precautions to avoid it. If your body starts showing symptoms of altitude sickness, take enough rest or return back to lower altitudes.

Weather Conditions

Everest Base Camp is one the main attractions of Khumbu region, that manifests the beauty of Himalayas. But unlike adventure and beauty, the weather in the Himalayas can be unpredictable, and you should be prepared for all kinds of weather conditions, including snow, rain, and wind. The snowfall rate is heavy and the temperature can go below 0 degrees celsius all the time. So, it will be better if you acknowledge them before going on for 12 Days Everest Base Camp Trek.

Equipment and Gear

You cannot complete your Everest Base Camp Trek without proper equipment and gear. You will be in need of essential gear like sturdy trekking shoes, warm clothes, sleeping bags, and equipment like crampons, trekking poles and more. These are the right gears that make your EBC trek comfortable and safe.

Trekking Permits

Everest Base Camp lies inside Sagarmatha National Park, a restricted area, so you will need a special permit to enter the National Park. There are several permits like Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and Pasang Lhamu Municipality Entry Permit required before you start your journey. Make sure that you have all the licenses so you will not get in any trouble later.

Guides and Porters

Whether you are a beginner or a pro trekker, hiring a guide and porter is always highly recommended for your trek. They can be of great help with navigation and carrying your gear. Not only that but they can also be a perfect partner to take you through the local communities and culture – they can help you through the routes and trails and also communicate with the local people.

Accommodation and Food

12 Days Everest Base Camp Trek is a long package, so you will have to consider your accommodation and food options beforehand. In the Everest region, accommodations vary from basic lodges to high-end hotels (in Namche). You can choose your accommodations depending upon your allocated budget or choice.

Preparation During The Trek

Once you arrive in Nepal, your journey to 12 Days Everest Base Camp begins. Before setting off on the trek, it’s important to acclimatize to the altitude and understand the risks associated with high-altitude treks. Always stay hydrated and know the limits of your body for any signs of altitude sickness.

During the 12 Days Everest Base Camp Trek, you’ll be staying in tea houses or lodges along the route; these provide basic accommodation and meals. The trekking routes vary but typically take you through villages and up to breathtaking viewpoints offering stunning views of Mount Everest. A reputable trekking company will provide excellent services along the way, such as guides and porters who can help make your journey more enjoyable and safe.

Post-Trip Reflections

Once you reach Everest Base Camp, you’ll have one last chance to take in the beauty of the surrounding landscape before heading back down the mountain. As you descend and reflect on your experience, you’ll likely have lasting impressions of the breathtaking scenery and of meeting local people. If you’re lucky enough to make it back down safely, then it’s time for post-trip reflections. Consider writing down your thoughts about your experiences on the trail as well as any advice for future trekkers. Connecting with the local community is also a great way to learn more about their culture and way of life. Finally, think about what comes next in your outdoor journey – perhaps another high-altitude trek or something entirely different!

Accommodation Facilities Available During The Trek

While you are setting off for 12 Days Everest Base Camp Trek, you should be aware of the accommodation facilities available in the region. The important thing to remember is that there are no high-end accommodation facilities in the region, except for Namche Bazaar. You will have to either camp or live in a tea house (very limited) for an overnight stay. So you will have to prepare accordingly as per the available means and resources.

Basically, there are three major types of accommodation facilities that you will cherish during your 12 Days Everest Base Camp Trek; Hotel/Lodges, Tea Houses, and Camps. Hotels and lodges are available in Accommodation in Namche Bazaar provides you a wide array of services and facilities like hot shower, attached bathroom, unlimited internet connections. But after you leave Namche Bazaar, you are on your own, either you have to live in a tea house or make a camp for yourself. Let’s explore more on this topic:

Hotel/Lodges: There are Hotel and Lodges like Panorama Lodge And Restaurant, Hotel Khangri, Nirvana Home, and Khumbu Lodge which comes with the local cuisine and great hospitality. They have hot water services, internet, and spacious rooms. You can sit in front of the snow-capped mountains and enjoy the beauty of nature and surroundings.

Tea House: Tea Houses in Everest Base Camp are in very limited numbers. They also provide you the basic amenities like hotels and lodges but might not be the top-notch one like them. You have to lower down your expectations if you are choosing tea houses for staying but they cover all your food and accommodation.

Camping: When it comes to camping, it’s all up to you. You will have to carry your own camping tents and other essential equipment required for camping. You also have to take your own food and utensils to cook that includes the gas or stove. Some agencies provide camping facilities too, so look for the one who provides the services if you are more comfortable in camps and do not want to share privacy during the Everest Base Camp Trek.

Everest Base Camp Trek Cost 2025 and 2026 :

On average, 12 Days Everest Base Camp trek cost starts from $1200 to $1500 per person. It includes your total cost including accommodation, permits, food, and travel. But the price may vary from person to person and agency to agency. It all depends on what type of activities you are engaged in and how many days you stay here in Nepal.

Here is the detailed breakdown of the Everest Base Camp Trek cost for 2025 and 2026 : 

Permit Cost:

Everest Base Camp Trek permit costs you from 2000 to 3000 Nepali rupees, it sums around $15 to $23. There are certain discounts for Indian citizens and the cost for them is around 1500 Nepali Rupees. There are basically three types of permits required for Everest Base Camp Trek;

• Sagarmatha National Park Permit
• Pasang Lhamu Municipality Entry Permit
• Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit

Sagarmatha National Park permit costs around 2000 to 3000 NRP and Pasang Lhamu Municipality Entry Permit has the price of 2000 NPR. Similarly, Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit has the price of 3000 Nepalese Rupees – this license is required if you are trekking from Jiri.

You can get all permits in the Tourism Board in Kathmandu or Monjo (for Sagarmatha N.P. License).

Accommodation Cost

The accommodation cost comes as a total of what type of living space you choose to live during the trek. The hotels and lodges in Namche Bazaar will cost you anywhere from $50 to $100 per night as they offer a wide range of services and facilities. You also can find cheap lodges for around $15 to $30 per night – it all depends on your choice.

Tea houses cost you anywhere from $7 dollars to $12 dollars per night. They don’t provide the same amenities like the Hotels or lodges but some of the tea houses have hot showers.

If you are staying in a camp, then you will have to take care of all the required materials and services by yourself. This might be expensive since you not only have to carry the tents but also food, sleeping bags, utensils, gas, and stoves by yourself. If you sum up all the amenities, then, the cost might come more than $40 per day.

Transportation Cost

Your transportation cost includes all of your expenses on transport from flight to vehicle. The flight from Kathmandu to Luka costs you around $100 to $150 per person. The cost may vary depending on which month you travel to EBC.

Conclusion

Exploring Everest Base Camp is an incredible journey that offers breathtaking views, physical challenge, and cultural exploration. So 12 Days Everest Base Camp Trek will be the great choice to explore all the areas around the Everest region from the bottom to the top. Be sure to pack appropriately and prepare both your body and mind for the rigors of high altitude. Once on the trek, stay safe and enjoy every moment – from connecting with locals to taking in stunning views of Mount Everest!

Everest Base Camp Trek itinerary:

Day 01: Fly to Lukla from Kathmandu Airport and trek to Phakding (2,651m/8,695 ft) (6.2km / 3.8mi) 3 – 4 hours, Tea House Accommodation.

Day 02: Phakding to Namche Bazaar Trek (3,430 m/11,283 ft) (7.4km / 4.6 mi), 5 – 6 hours, Tea House Accommodation

Day 03: Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazaar (3,430 m/11,283 ft), Tea House Accommodation.

Day 04: Trek to Tengboche (3,870m/12,694 ft) (9.2km / 5.7mi) 5 – 6 hours, Tea House Accommodation

Day 05: Trek to Dingboche (4,360 m/14,300 ft) (12km / 7.45mi) 5 – 6 hours, Tea House Accommodation

Day 06: Acclimatization at Dingboche (4,360 m/14,300 ft) , Tea House Accommodation

Day 07: Trek to Lobuche (4940 m/16,203 ft) (8.5km / 5.2mi) 5-6 hours, Tea House Accommodation

Day 08: Trek to Gorak Shep (5,170 m/16,957ft), visit Everest Base Camp (5,364 m/17,594 ft)  (15km / 9.32mi) 6-7 hours, Tea House Accommodation.

Day 09: Trek to Kala Patthar(5,545 m/18,187 ft) for sunrise of Mt Everest to Pheriche (4,288m/14,264 ft)  (9.6km / 6mi) 7-8 hours, Tea House Accommodation.

Day 10: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,430 m/11,283 ft) (14.3km / 8.8mi) 6 – 7 hours, Tea House Accommodation.

Day 11: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2860 m/9383 ft) (13.5km / 8.3 mi) 6 – 7 hours, Tea House Accommodation.

Day 12: Fly back to Kathmandu from Lukla