- 10 Days
- Nepal
- Everest Base Camp
- 5364 meters
- Guest House
- Min. 1 Pax
Overview
Everest Base Camp Trek has always amazed hikers with its unreal beauty, rich geographical features, and landscapes. Its classic trail, which takes visitors on a thrill ride, offers incredible sceneries of steep-sided valleys, lush meadows, and mountainous terrains.
The trail here runs continuous steep hills, then takes vertical drops, which repeat over and again. It passes through several villages, crosses suspension bridges, and walks beside the sky-high mountains. En route, visitors will meet many locals of different ethnicities and cultures who treat the guest warmly.
Trekking the foothills and steep trails of Everest Base Camp is a bitter-sweet experience but primarily impressive. It provides trekkers a spectacular view of gleaming mountains throughout the way and even at the base camp.
As ever, Short Everest Base Camp Trek begins from Lukla, following a scenic flight to the town. The trail makes its first stop at Phakding after running along the bank of Dudh Koshi River and Namche. From here, it heads to Tengboche, whose trail is a mix of ups and downs with a bit of level ground walk.
Trekkers will be climbing uphill to Dingboche and take a long journey to Gorakshep after continuing the trek from Lobuche. The route to Everest Base Camp makes its way from the northeast of Gorakshep. It takes 2-3 hours to reach the foot of Khumbu Icefall and witness the gorgeous view of Mt. Everest alongside Nuptse, Khumbutse, Cho Oyu, and other surrounding peaks.
Trekkers can see many riverside villages with green terrace farms while on their way to the base camp. After the sighting, they climb the way down to Pheriche over the jagged paths. They will walk past the beautiful Namche and Luka in the following two days through dense forests and valleys. Finally, after arriving at Lukla, they’ll take the flight back to Kathmandu.
We recommend 15 Days Everest Base Camp trek for beginners.
Highlights of Short Everest Base Camp Trek
- A pristine view of snow-capped mountains, including Mt. Everest, Khumbutse, and Ama Dablam
- Visit Tengboche monastery for morning prayers and blessings
- Explore vivid valleys, historical landmarks, and cultural spots
- Blending in with the Sherpa culture and tradition
- Friendly locals with warm hospitality
- Witnessing the lovely view of Dudh Koshi River and crossing th suspension bridges
- Several stops at charming villages on the EBC trail
EBC Trek Altitude Chart
Itinerary
Phakding Elevation: 2,640 meters
Trek Distance: 6.2 km
Flight Distance: 30-45 mins
Walking hours: 3 hrs
Early in the morning, we’ll be transferred to Tribhuvan Int’l Airport to get the flight to Lukla. It should take us about half an hour to reach this Sherpa town and a gateway to Mt. Everest. After landing at the Lukla’s airstrip and having lunch, we’ll start trekking to Phakding, which takes another 2-3 hours.
After climbing the hills from the left bank of Dudh Koshi River, we navigate a well-worn path, which leads to Phakding. Along the route, we get to see many colorful mani walls and the beautiful village of Ghat.
Phakding is a small village perched in a Dudh Koshi River Valley, just south of Monjo. With many historical and cultural landmarks, it’s listed in UNESCO’s world heritage sites. Trekkers use the village as a rest stop before heading to the base camp.
Namche Elevation: 3,440 meters
Trek Distance: 7-8 km
Walking hours: 5-6 hrs
Once the breakfast is finished, we’ll continue our trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar. Leaving the village, we’ll cross a rushing stream and ascend the terrace farm to arrive at Bengar. After several ups and downs, the trail stops at Sagarmatha National Park, where we have to get the entry permit.
From there, we cross the suspension bridge over Dudh Koshi River and ascend the trail to Jorsale. There are a few shops in this village where trekkers can stock food and water. After that, the trail climb steep hills that are continuously upward with no descent at all.
This section alone can take us 2-3 hours, depending on the pace of the trek. The trails are rugged and field with stone so, it can be slightly tiring for average fitness hikers. Most inhabited by Sherpa people, Namche Bazaar is the most famous town in the entire Khumbu. It has plenty of accommodation facilities, including tea houses and lodges for trekkers to spend the night.
Tengboche Elevation: : 3,867 meters
Trek Distance: 9.2 km
Walking hours: 5-6 hrs
Unlike other hikes, we won’t acclimatize at Namche in Short Everest Base Camp Trek. Instead of going out on exploration, we’ll continue the journey to Tengboche with a steep climb just out of the village. After an hour or more of easy walking, the trail descends to a stream below an old wooden bridge.
From here, the course gains altitude, and trekking becomes strenuous with around two hours uphill walk. There are a few restaurants on the way to Tengboche where you can stop and have food. After that, the path heads even more upward over the rough terrains, which ends at Tengboche.
With the backdrop of Ama Dablam, Tengboche offers the most spectacular view to the hikers. It also has one of the oldest and most sacred Buddhist monasteries in the region. Since the village lies atop a hill across Ima Khola, it provides an astonishing view of steep-sided valleys and narrow gorges.
Dingboche Elevation: 4,260 meters
Trek Distance: 9 km
Walking hours: 5-6 hrs
Waking up early morning, we’ll visit Tengboche monastery to attend prayers with locals. After taking a short tour of the pilgrimage, we’ll come out of the village and walk the gently sloping downward path. But, after crossing the river, the trail ascends uphill and walks along the river valley for most of the day.
As the trail heads upward, we can see many ancient Chortens along with the scenic mountain view of Kantega and Ama Dablam. In general, the trek to Dingboche isn’t difficult but lengthy, taking up to 6 hours.
The village of Dingboche lies in Chukhung Valley at an altitude of 4,410 meters. It provides all the visitors stopping at the town with an impressive view of Ama Dablam, Mt. Everest, and Imja Tse. It also facilitates them with accommodation services that include guesthouses and lodges.
Lobuche Elevation: : 4,930 meters
Trek Distance: 8.4 km
Walking hours: 5-6 hrs
Out of Dingboche village, the trail ascends to Pheriche through a rock-strewn meadow and ride up a several yak herder shelter. After two hours of trekking above the base camp, we’ll arrive at Dugla. While walking through the windswept valley, we’ll get a picturesque view of lofty green hills, snow-capped mountains, and charming villages.
We’ll stop here for a short time to have lunch here and then continue the trek uphill for about an hour. During the hike, we’ll be treated to the astonishing sight of Mt. Pumori and surrounding snow peaks. After a few steep ascents, we can see dozens of stone memorials in honor of climbers fallen in Khumbu.
Gorakshep Elevation: : 5,164 meters
Everest Base Camp Elevation: : 5,364 meters
Trek Distance: 10.5 km
Walking Hours:6-7 hrs
We pave our way to Gorakshep through a rocky moraine path, which comes with a stunning view of glacial lakes and ice sheets below the Khumbu Glacier. After walking the rugged trails with sharp rocks for an hour or two, we’ll arrive at Gorakshep.
We’ll stop at Gorakshep for a short time to have breakfast, then continue the hike, which requires an additional 2-3 hours of walking. The trail, paving its way to the base camp, is rough with debris and rocks, so trekking becomes a bit more difficult on this section.
The journey takes over the Khumbu Glacier and finally ends at the base of the Khumbu Icefall, which is somewhat strenuous. The difficulty pays off big, though, as we get to watch the mesmeric scenes of Mt. Everest, Cho Oyu, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam.
We’ll also get to witness the spectacular view of shimmering glaciers, rugged hills, and rolling landscapes. After the sightseeing and exploration are done, we’ll retrace the steps back to Gorakshep. Since the trails are downward, it takes a shorter time than earlier to arrive at the hamlet—overnight in a tea house at Gorakshep.
Pangboche Elevation: : 3,985 meters
Trek Distance: 20–22 km
Walking hours: 7-8 hrs
With the first light of the day, we’ll follow the trail rising upward to Kalapatthar. It takes somewhere between 2-3 hours from Gorakshep to arrive at the hilltop. The trek to Kalapatthar isn’t the toughest one, but the routes are slightly jagged and bumpy.
Kalapatthar is the highest point in the Everest region, which trekkers can quickly ascend. Upon reaching the hilltop, they get the closest snap of Everest along with Mt. Pumori, Changtse, Lingtren, and Khumbutse.
The beautiful shades of sunrise in the sky look incredible from the summit. After spending a great time here, we descend the trail to Pangboche, which requires another 2-3 hours of trekking. The courses to this Khumjung Village are rugged with sharp and craggy rocks, which is quite tiring to walk.
Pangboche lies high above the Imja Khola Valley, just about 3 km northeast of Tengboche. The village is a common stop for trekkers of Everest Base Camp as there are many hotels and lodges for accommodation.
Namche Elevation: 3440 meters
Trek Distance: 19.5 km
Walking hours: 6 hrs
We’ll head up early to the trails for Pangboche, which starts with a steep ascent awhile, then descend to the river. After crossing the bridge, the trail climbs downhill to the village. Most of the paths to Pangboche are level ground and downward, running from the edge of the hill. The journey provides a lovely view of the gushing river and towering hill all around until arriving at the village. Overnight stay in a tea house.
Lukla Elevation: 2860 meters
Trek Distance: 18-20 km.
Walking Time: 7-8 Hours
For one last time at the Short Everest Base Camp Trek, we’ll traverse the path from Namche to Lukla. Following the same trail before, we’ll descend the hills and pass through the densely forested area. With the level walk or downward for most of the day, the hike is easier this time.
We’ll use the suspension bridge to cross the Bhote Koshi River on several occasions. And as the trek makes progress, we walk past several villages, including Manjo and Jorsale. After almost 7 hours of the hike with a final uphill walk, we’ll finally arrive at Namche. Overnight stay in a tea house.
After having breakfast while surrounded by lush green hills and glistening mountains, we’ll leave for Kathmandu. Just after taking a short walk to Lukla airport, we’ll board the flight, which takes almost half an hour to arrive at the town.
Enjoy the scenic view of rolling hills and cascading waterfalls while on your way to Kathmandu City. After landing at the airport, our officials will transfer you to your hotel where you can get some sleep.
Short Everest Base Camp Trek Map
Package Includes
- Private airport transfers for your arrival and departure in a comfortable car or van.
- Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout your trek.
- Clean and comfortable local guesthouse accommodation, normally arranged on a twin-sharing basis.
- An experienced, government-licensed, English-speaking trekking guide who is deeply familiar with the local communities, language, traditions, and culture, and has completed this trek many times.
- Complete support for the trekking crew, including their wages, accommodation, meals, insurance, transportation, equipment, and medical care.
- All required trekking permits, TIMS Card, National Park permits, and government fees.
- Convenient baggage storage in Kathmandu while you are enjoying your trek.
- Free use of a sleeping bag, duffel bag, and trekking poles during the trekking period.
- Trekking map to help you understand and follow the route.
- First aid medical kit carried by your trekking guide for added support during the trek.
- All necessary ground transportation as specified in the confirmed itinerary.
- Round-trip flights between Kathmandu or Ramechhap and Lukla, including applicable airport taxes.
Cost Excludes
- Nepal visa and applicable fees, currently USD 30 for a 15-day visa, USD 50 for a 30-day visa, and USD 125 for a 90-day visa.
- Kathmandu hotel accommodation and meals, unless specifically mentioned in the confirmed itinerary.
- International flights and airport departure taxes.
- Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking, medical treatment, and emergency helicopter evacuation.
- Porter Service: Not included in the package but available as an optional add-on at USD 275 per porter, with a maximum carrying capacity of 20 to 22 kg per porter.
- Alcoholic drinks, soft drinks, bottled water, tea, coffee, snacks, and other personal drinks or refreshments.
- Laundry and other personal expenses during the trip.
- Excess baggage above the 15 kg allowance on domestic flights, charged at approximately USD 1 per extra kg by the airline.
- Personal trekking clothes, boots, backpacks, jackets, and other individual gear.
- Tips and gratuities for your guide, porters, drivers, and support team.
- Any other services, activities, or expenses not specifically mentioned in the Package Includes section.
Best time for Short Everest Base Camp Trek
It’s incredibly important to decide when to go whenever planning for a long haul like Everest Base Camp. Trekkers have to be extra careful while picking the dates in the calendar, mainly because the weather in Himalaya is unpredictable.
The best time to visit Everest Base Camp is during the Autumn months from September to November and in Spring between March and May. These are the times when the weather is delightful and clear with eye-catching sceneries.
Autumn Season
Those looking for ideal weather and temperature must trek Everest Base Camp in Autumn. It has a perfect climate with naturally fantastic views that gets the trekkers excited. The surrounding environment looks cool and refreshing throughout the season.
As the sun is up, it’s warm during the day but nights and mornings are slightly cold at Everest Base Camp. The peak month in Autumn is typically October when the trekkers storm the region. The fall foliage is in full swing around this time, putting a great view along the valleys and forest.
The average temperature is 12 Degree Celsius in October, which gradually falls as winter approaches. Locals are pretty busy during this month as celebrations of important Nepalese festivals, and events continue. It means the visitors there also get to blend in with the local culture and tradition.
Spring Season
In terms of travel, Spring is another incredible time for the Everest Base Camp trek. It offers terrific weather with a pleasant atmosphere that puts trekkers in a more relaxed and comfortable condition.
Weather in the days are warm and sunny in Spring, but the nights are with the temperature dropping up to 0 Degree Celsius. The weather in the season is mild for a large part, with occasional light snowfall in early March.
With full-bloom rhododendrons and wildflowers, April is the prime month for Spring. There’s a splendid view all around this month. Trekkers can snap crystal clear shots of Mt. Everest along with verdant forests, steep-sided valleys, glaciers, and rocky hills.
Off-season
Winter and Monsoon are generally considered an off-season for a trek to Everest Base Camp. With continuous snowstorms and downpours, the weather doesn’t favor hikers in these seasons. In winter, the weather is freezing with icy wind, heavy snow, and low temperature.
January, in particular, is the coldest month, with temperatures dropping up to -17 Degree Celsius. Thys, the trekkers, will have to keep themselves warm to protect themselves from the inhospitable environment. Those who don’t mind the cold will, however, enjoy winter.
They’ll get to watch the marvelous view of Mt. Everest, Cho Oyu, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam. The base camp comes to life in the season with snow-covered valleys and cliffs. Once the dawn breaks, they can catch a breathtaking sunrise view after climbing the hills to Kalapatthar.
The same goes with Monsoon as it too provides a magnificent view after the rain has stopped. It wipes all the air dust and makes it possible to catch a glimpse of snowy peaks, diverse landscapes, and glaciers.
There are fewer crowds on the trail during this season so that trekkers can walk at their own pace. They may even get some discounts in teahouses and local shops. The weather is hot and humid in the monsoon, with temperatures rising to 22 Degree Celsius in the daytime. So, it’s an incredible time to get rid of the warm clothes and enjoy the fresh wind. But make sure to carry a waterproof jacket to avoid getting drenched in the rain.
Why is Short Everest Base Camp Trek worth doing?
No doubt, the Everest Base Camp trek is adventurous, with lots of places to explore and watch. There’re many tourist attractions and significant landmarks for visitors to discover during the trip. Hikers can witness breathtaking sceneries of snow peaks, charming villages, lush fields, and mountain ridges during the trek to Base Camp.
The Short Everest Base Camp Trek may have a winding trail with numerous ups and downs, but they can be quickly ascended. Trekkers don’t have to bear severe pain or put up with strenuous exercise as a part of the preparation for the trek.
1. Moderate trekking trail
Short Everest Base Camp Trek has accessible trekking routes as compared to the other hikes in the mountains. Its trails are short in length which can be traveled in about 6-7 hours each day. There are no technical climbs on any sections until base camp, so trekkers won’t have to be tough on themselves.
The main EBC trails are rugged and uneven, so that the trekkers might find this part of the trek challenging. But, any trekker with good physical health and fitness can easily make it to the camp. Trekkers with no previous experience ascending mountainous terrain can even climb the trails to base camp without extreme difficulties.
2. Picturesque sceneries
Everest Base Camp Trek is as scenic as it can be with soaring mountains, deep valleys, wooden bridges, tranquil lakes, and foot cliffs. The paths heading to base camp unfold many beautiful sceneries, including the glimpse of Mt. Everest, Ama Dablam, and Nuptse.
Several times, they can witness Tibetan chortens, mani walls, and colorful prayer flags. Trekkers of Spring and Autumn will be delighted to watch the beautiful fall foliage with blooming flowers and green pastures.
Visitors should find many historical and cultural monuments during Everest Base Camp. They can explore one of the famous Buddhist pilgrimages, Tengboche Monastery, during the short Everest Base Camp Trek. Visitors ascending Kala Patthar will get to enjoy the lovely sunrise view.
3. Accommodation facilities
Short Everest Base Camp Trek has a wide range of accommodation options for trekkers. From the time at Lukla, until the base camp, trekkers can find enough places to stop and have lunch or stay the night.
Even in remote places like Gorakshep, plenty of tea houses and lodges where trekkers can stop and spend the night. Teahouses seem to be the best option for most visitors trekking Everest Base Camp as they’re more affordable and available at all places.
The facilities offered by teahouses are standard but still cheap than any other restaurants or lodges. They are comfortable and even available at a higher elevation so that trekkers can count on teahouses for accommodation during the short Everest Base Camp Trek.
4. Extreme fitness training isn’t required
There’s no need for trekkers to follow strenuous exercise and fitness routines to keep themselves in shape. They don’t have to spend a lot of time in the gym to prepare for the short Everest Base Camp Trek.
Hikers can instead follow aerobic exercises like jogging, cycling, and brisk walking to increase their stamina. They can also walk a few short and long trails to withstand the mountainous terrains and zigzagged trails.
5. Fewer threats
Hikers of Short Everest Base Camp Trek have little to worry about while on the journey to base camp. Until and unless they are physically fit and can ascend the steep trail, they don’t have to bear any pain.
Since the trails of short Everest Base Camp Trek don’t climb Khumbu Icefall, there’s hardly any chance for trekkers to suffer from frostbite. Although there are a few possibilities for them to suffer from altitude sickness, we’ll be making stops between the walk,s which helps prevent the sickness.
They can relax at these villages for a short time before going high to reduce the effect of low atmospheric [resure at higher attitude. To make the journey a little easier, trekkers can hire a porter who’ll help them carry the load.
