Most Popular Trekking route in Nepal

Trekking to Everest Base Camp

This is where true adventure begins…

This is one trip you don’t won’t to miss that’s why it’s aptly called the king of all trips. The journey begins with a flight to one of the highest landing airports in the world, & once we get off the twin otter, our eyes begin to take in the gigantic surroundings that stirs our emotions to the bone, as we sort out our equipment & the porters carry what has to be carried & our guides lead the way by the banks of the Dudh Kosi River. We clamber on our set trail through colorful villages as the panoramic scenery begins to take hold of us as we hike through farmlands & bump into the friendly sherpa folks, the local inhabitants of the ‘Khumbu’ {the original name of the Everest region}, known for their legendary climbing skills & warm welcoming nature; our walk soon brings us the capital of the Khumbu, a thriving town called ‘Namche’, & this is where we get our first views of massive Everest & other silver grey peaks that literally stop the breath for a moment. Namche is the kind of town that will stun you for all the facilities it has within its boundaries, where you will find things not even available in the capital of Nepal, Kathmandu. Namche is the first outpost that gives you your first acclimatizing process which gets your body used to the higher elevations that come further on in the course of your trip.

As we haul up for a night in Namche, we begin to observe many other fellow trekkers having a good time, of which some are on their way up while some are on their way down. Friendships are made at respective hotels over a couple of beers & advice & tips are passed around as beer mugs clang together in bountiful cheers over some of the best friendships that begin & last for years down the road. We then go for walks to higher elevations within namche to acclimatize, have supper & go to bed feeling good & geared for the walks that steadily go higher the next day. We hike through dense green forests with chattering birds as we get the sweet whiff of scented rhododendrons & magnolias that really makes us feel good. The rich flora and fauna of Sagarmatha National Park are some of the added delights of the EBC trek. our trip moves on to the famous Tengboche monastery that give us some breathtaking views of Amadablam, Everest & other peaks before our super climb up to Kalapathar at 5545m where we get master views of Mt. Everest & all the sister peaks that seem to take our breath away, because this is the highest we get on our EBC trip & the views from this point are said to be the best on the planet; this is what we left home for & our video cams go on overdrive as we get some of the best pictures ever to adorn the walls of that lovely place we call ‘Home’’.

We make camp close by the enormous Khumbu Icefall that creates the landmark of our EBC trek & savor the lovely vistas that warm the heart in the chilly laps of Everest & marvel at the grandeur of the gigantic mountains that surround us as we gasp in sublime wonder at the greatness of God & his supernatural creations. From this point onwards we probably may look at life differently & more positively. The EBC trip is ideal for those who have a deep love for adventure & trekkers must be reasonably fit & healthy to enjoy this venture. EncountersNepal.com has carried out hundreds of trips to Everest Base Camp & your safety is a vital part of our company policy when doing this trip & other high altitude trips across Nepal’s vast Himalayan circuits. Experience has taught us to hope for the best when on these trips…& also to expect the worst & this is what prepares us thoroughly for any eventualities but till date the mountain gods have favored us & no major accident has occurred. We will always go the mile to give you the best despite the precautions we take without spoiling your adventure in the great outback of Nepal. Please feel free to let us know your feelings of a trip to EBC; you can get friendly with us at: info@encountersnepal.com, for an adventure that will linger in your memories for a real long time to come…

Some helpful advice from Encounters Nepal.com:

A: It would be wise to keep in mind that your flight from Kathmandu to Lukla may get delayed for a few hours or may even be cancelled for some days due to unfavorable weather conditions. Since these situations are unpredictable for what extreme climate changes are occurring these days; you must be prepared to haul up in Kathmandu for some time. Encounters Nepal will put in its best efforts to get you through for you at the earliest time possible. Still, we suggest you be well-prepared for such delays or even cancellations. If the delay exceeds 2 days, you have the option to do an alternative trip as well. We can organize the Annapurna Base Camp Trek at the same price you've paid for Everest Base Camp. But it’s important to note that no refunds will be made as we cannot be responsible for an act that has occurred by the gods of nature. You will also have to bear the cost for accommodation, transportation, and food for the extra days in Kathmandu.

B: Encounters Nepal, being a responsible travel operator, ensures that all of its trips are eco-friendly. We have found that one of the reasons why trekkers fell sick during one of our trips is due to drinking water. But we make our best efforts to assure that you are always provided with pure water. We do this by providing you chlorinated water.

But if you don't like drinking chlorinated water and bring mineral water instead, you can get it on the mountains. Mineral water bottles for a 14-days trip will cost you approx. $150. So, don't forget to bring necessary cash for buying mineral water.

C: Want to enjoy high-speed Internet Connectivity while trekking on the lap of Mount Everest? It would be a great experience sharing your trip updates with the loved ones at home and friends staying far away from you. If you want, it's possible to use WiFi services till Gorakshep. However, this will cost you approximately USD 5 per day depending on how much we use it in a day.

D: Please don't forget to carry your Traveler's Insurance compulsorily with you as it covers your emergency evacuation. We can make the helicopter arrangements for you in case of an emergency. Of course, nothing much will happen, but being prepared is like a stitch in time will save nine; please inform your insurance company before you leave your home country prior to your trip.

E. Its also useful to note that solar battery is now available above Namche at the higher elevations as per the requirements of the locals & for trekkers & you can charge your laptops or any other electric gadgets that you bring along with you on the trip, however, this also incurs a minimum charge that begins from USD$ 1-5 depending on the gadget on an hourly basis.

Route to Everest Base Camp

 The trek offers breathtaking mountain panoramas and an insight into the lives of the Sherpa culture. Taking an exhilarating mountain flight to Lukla, we mount up to the Dudh Koshi Valley which is encircled by the towering peaks of Thamserku and Kusum Kanguru. After a steep ascent to Namche Bazaar, capital of the Kumbu Sherpas, we are once more acknowledged by magnificent mountain panoramas. And, then we have a rest day which will help in acclimatization and there are other alternative walks to take pleasure in the area. Subsequently, we head to famous Tengboche, located high on an edge where a splendid 360-degree landscape awaits. The fascinating views of Everest, the Lhotse-Nuptse Wall, Ama Dablam and Kantega overlook this calm and divine location  and no doubt it is one of the most serene and exciting places in the world.This dazzling trek visits both, Everest base camp and KalaPatthar (5545m), a stance renowned as the finest vantage point to see Mount Everest which is a foremost target for many trekkers in the Himalayas. After trekking to base camp and Kalapatthar we come back at our relaxing way to Namche and Lukla for our return flight to Kathmandu.

Base Camp Everest Altitude

Everest Base Camp, with highest altitude in the world is generally the top place ordinary travelers can go. Actually, there are two Everest base camps on opposite sides of Mount Everest, namely South Everest Base Camp in Nepal and North Everest Base Camp in Tibet, southwest China. South Base Camp in Nepal is at an altitude of 5,364 m. while the Tibet Everest Base Camp is located at an altitude of 5,545m. and is used when climbing via the northeast ridge.

Base camp Everest Temperature

Because of the high elevation, Mount Everest is covered by snow all year round and the climate here on the mountain is quite harsh. There are heaps of bulky glaciers formed in the valley with the most prominent one being the Rongbuk Glacier consisting of eastern, western and middle Rongbuk glaciers. The most unique aspect of the climate of the camp is the temperature differs in the daytime and at night. And the climate and temperature varies in different seasons and time.

In winter, the region can be snowy and it is the time when you are never recommended to travel there. During July and August too you are not suggested to travel because of a little bit rainy and the road condition can be very bad.

Everest summit temperature roughly fluctuates between -20ºC to -35ºC during summer. The coldest forecasted summit temperature was -41ºC and the warmest forecasted temperature was -16ºC. The coldest temperature of the year begins in the second half of December and continues until end of January.

Everest Base Camp Weather

The weather from March to May is warmer and quieter than September to December. From September to November, it is great time to trek but the region may be busy. Likewise, in December, January and February the weather becomes cold and dry but very quiet.

Average wind coldness for Everest Base Camp is -14C during May and -30C during winter. The summit is reached swiftly in a couple of days when the weather for a short time does not fluctuate.

During the spring, climbs towards 7000 meters are often pleasant and hardly ever cold when the weather is fine. Mountaineering in t-shirt is not exceptional. However, winter is totally different and temperatures call for serious gear.

Everest Base Camp Trips

This trip is intended to let people experience the significant route to the base of the world's highest mountain. A slow way up through wonderful Sherpa villages allows us time to take pleasure in the landscape, wildlife and visit a number of monasteries. You will have an opportunity to hike to both Everest Base Camp and the nearby peak of Kala Pathhar (5545m) for magnificent views of Mount Everest. The main highlights of the trek are stunning views of Mount Everest, exploring Sherpa culture, witnessing Namche Bazaar, Tengboche Monastery, climbing Kala Pattar and visit Everest Base Camp and many more.

After flying in to Lukla, our exhilarating trek to Everest Base camp takes you through Sherpa capital of Namche Bazaar we trek along an interspersed village with magnificent forests of rhododendron the where you can intimately watch the views of Everest and then move forward towards Tengboche monastery (3864m).  Then our trip leads up Everest Base Camp at the foot of the Khumbu ice fall before finally making our way back down to Lukla.

Everest Base Camp Trek Reviews

Aside from magnificent vista, travelers to the region can experience exceptional Sherpa culture by visiting monasteries and museums along the way. Days are filled with walking for the sheer pleasure of it, past colorful prayer wheels and across swing bridges and we will travel through one of the world heritage site (Sagarmatha national park), to view the various flora and fauna not found in the other side of the globe and the everlasting huge monasteries whose existence goes very far behind the time period.The heady mix of natural beauty, fascinating culture and a personal sense of achievement, as well as warm Nepalese hospitality, makes the Everest Base Camp trek one of the worlds most unforgettable. The trek through Lukla and Himalayas up to Everest Base Camp with magnificent scenery and blue skies everyday day will enchant you. The trekking is not technically difficult, but you should have a solid fitness level and proper gear as it does get very cold higher up, and the altitude can affect you.

Hike to Everest Base Camp cost

Himalayan View Trek offers Everest Base Camp trek at a price ranging from 1450 USD to 1700 USDbut it depends on what is included and what is excluded on the service. The cost includes airport pick up and drop by private car or van or bus, standard accommodation at hotel in Kathmandu, standard meals during the trek, best accessible lodging during the trek, porters to carry your luggage during the trek, food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment and medicine for all staff, Everest National Park permits, Trekkers Information Management System Card (TIMS) and airfare from Kathmandu to Lukla and return to Kathmandu.

Everest Base camp Trek Guide

Talking about the baggage, pack lightly, about 10 to 15kg. A fleece jacket, down jacket and thermal underwear are a must, as the Himalaya gets cold above 3000m any time of the year. Also take two pairs of long pants, two or three T-shirts (synthetic fabrics – not cotton – that wick away sweat), and another warm jumper or light fleece. Regarding footwear, carry lightly broken-in boots, trekking socks, and sneakers or sandals for evenings. You will also need a raincoat, gloves, woolen hat, sun hat and polarized sunglasses. A good sleeping bag (rated to -20°C/0°F) is necessary; if it’s winter; a thermal liner makes it additional toasty. Pick for travel-size toiletries, including a good sunscreen, lip balm, travel towel and tissues. Baby wipes are handy for days when you can’t shower And, your first aid kit should include medicine for diarrhea, antibiotics for a chest or sinus infection, and adhesive bandages for blisters. Visit your doctor for Nepal-specific immunizations.

Everest Base camp Altitude Porter

Hard working local porters will aid you in the entire trekking. Because they will be carrying supplies, equipment and baggage, trek to these remote areas become possible. So, they should be well treated and well paid. And for the porter's sake, all trekkers keep their luggage bag weight under 25kgs.

Facts about Mt. Everest.

Everest was formed about 60 million years ago. In Nepal, it is named as  Sagarmatha which means goddess of the sky. In Tibet, Everest is known as Chomolungma meaning mother goddess of the universe. It is situated 27° 59' north latitude and 86 ° 56’ east longitudes. Its summit edge separates Nepal and Tibet. On May 29, 1953 the peak was first ascended by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay through the South Col Route. Sir George Everest was the first person to record the height and location of Mt. Everest and it got its name as Mount Everest from American language.The first solo ascent without oxygen was done on August 20, 1980 by Reinhold Messner, via the NE Ridge to North Face. Likewise, the first winter climb was achieved by L.Cichy and K. Wielicki on February 17, 1980. And the first woman to climb the peak is Junko Tabei on May 16, 1975. The fastest ascent from south was made possible by Babu Chhiri Sherpa in16 hours and 56 minutes. Similarly, Hans Kammerlander, on May, 24, 1996, made a fastest ascent from north sidethat is in 16 hours 45 minutes from base camp. Moreover, the youngest person to climb the summit was Temba Tsheri at the age 15 on May, 22, 2001 while the oldest person is Sherman Bull at the age of 64 on May. The first legally blind person who reached the summit is Erik Weihenmeyer on May, 25, 2001.Babu Chiri Sherpa stayed at the summit full 21 hours and a half which is the longest stay in the peak. And the only climber to climb all four sides of Everest is Kushang Sherpa.The first person to hike from sea level to summit without oxygen is Tim Macartney Snape on 11th May 1990. The largest number to reach the apex in one day is 40, on May 10, 1993.

When to Trek Everest Base camp

The best time to travel to Everest Base Camp is from early March to the end of October except July and August. During this time, the climate is rather good and the temperature is moderately mild. From early September when the monsoonal rains decrease. By end of September through to December the weather is usually stable with mild to warm days, cold nights. February, March, April, May, October, November, December are favorable to do Everest base camp trek. But you should keep in mind that, although in the daytime, because sun shines it can be warm but it is quite cold at night which is sure to be low even during summer.

Altitude sickness Information of Everest Base camp Trek

It is vital to be conscious about the altitude acclimatization required by the human body in mountain conditions, if you really one to make the experience memorable one. Altitude sickness can not only provide you unpleasant moments, but could also force you to change your trekking plans. Symptoms include light headache, nausea and loss of appetite, insomnia, unusual fatigue, lethargy, and sluggishness. In most cases it is treatable on the trial and many make it to the EBC. If not treated well, it could be life threatening.Normally, altitude illness starts from 3,600 meters/11808 feet and above. You will be trekking at a relatively slower and gradual pace as part of adaptation practice. In the high elevation there is a lesser amount of oxygen in the air and this is more so while crossing high passes.

KHUMBU COUGH

The Khumbu cough and related respiratory ailments in the high altitude are the ordinary features that annoy us. Most adventure seekers often undergo from a usual altitude cough which particularly bothers while sleep. It is better to be aware of this before you trek into the high mountains.

Breathing problems simply challenges gastrointestinal diseases which is the most widespread problems in the trekkers to Nepal. The major factors of respiratory disease s are pollution in the city, cold air in the mountains, dog hair, pollen dust etc. However, guidelines for respiratory ailments are not specific

Khumbu cough is common at high altitudes anywhere in Nepal that particularly disturbs our sleep. Breathing cold air possibly affects you to this cough, which in fact may be cause by virus which does not have associated fever. Sometimes there may even be long spasms of coughing which leave you breathless.

An antihistamine like Benadryl may help, mainly at night, and allow you to sleep more quietly. Codeine, which also reduces coughs, may be harmful at high elevation because it also results in discomfort in breathing. Inhaling air through piece of cloth would help out instead of taking in the cold mountain air. It may be a affecting factor for the cough when you respire through the mouth rather than through the nose, the natural moistening mechanism of the nose is evaded.

Another upsetting factor at high altitude may be blocks which also cause sleeping problems. An airless nose may be a sinus related problem; some allergic or vascular condition may be causing obstruction. It is most likely sinus related disease if the stuffed nose is escorted by fever, headache, and pain around the eye and forehead. He/she should take antibiotics for about two weeks. However, if it simply stuffed nose problem, a steroid nasal inhaler (locally available as Beclate) is very much helpful. If you are smoker and are prone to sinusitis then physician must be addressed at the start of the trip.

Likewise, hazardous disease, bronchitis is another problem that you may undergo while trekking at high altitude. A major cause of bronchitis is wood smoke in house without proper exposure to air, which can annoy your respiring passages and cause coughing. If you begin coughing up yellow or green phlegm, you have suffered from bronchitis and may require antibiotic. A very high fever with cough and phlegm and chest pain could suggest pneumonia, which is not caused by bacteria or virus.

Moreover, if you have asthma and plan to trek, it is of the chief essence to discuss this with your physician. Disease asthma too may cause coughs and panting and has the potential to become a medical emergency. You will have to be aware of many effective treatments for controlling asthma. Exertion and cold air can precipitate asthma, but clear contact with the physician and prophylactic drug treatment can make a large difference.

Because of bacteria or virus, discomfort in the back of the throat (larynx or pharynx) can cause in annoying kind of the cough. Also, difficulty in swallowing, redness in the throat, a change or lose of voice will be an adjunct to it. Infection from the throat region spread inside of the ear and cause not only more coughing, but also pain and deafness in the ear. You will also have fever. And in this case antibiotic can effectively help. The deafness may take as long as a month to return to normal.

Furthermore, coughing along with headache and loss of appetite may be symptom of altitude sickness. The common problem re fluxing of food material from the stomach to the upper food pipe (esophagus) can also be treatable cause of persistent cough which get bad while lying down at night. Antacids, light, non fatty meal, and abstinence from the alcohol can help this condition.