Everest has always inspired and attracted people to it for one reason or another however, despite its great size and bulk it remains hidden away behind its immediate satellite peaks of Nuptse, Lhotse, and Lhotse Shar for many days during the early part of the trek.
Although a quick glimpse of the summit can be seen from one of the bends on the trail zigzagging up to Namche Bazaar it is not really until after Namche that the spectacular black triangle of the summit mass appears above its neighbors.
The Saturday market Namche Bazaar provides an opportunity to see the busy commercial center of the Khumbu region operating at its most colorful. Once in Tengboche, there will be the opportunity to visit the world-famous monastery and get an insight into the lives of the monks and their Buddhist way of life in the Khumbu.
It is at this monastery that many expeditions aiming for the summit of Everest go to ask for a blessing from the Lama so as not to offend the deity and for a safe journey. Although Everest remains the focal point of the trek to Base Camp the trail is surrounded by many other peaks of varying altitude and grandeur, all formidable summits in their own right.
However, it is not until the trekker reaches. Gorak Shep that the grandeur of the world’s highest mountain can be fully appreciated. There are many variations to this trek depending on the length of time spent in Nepal and the budget.
Everest Base Camp Trip Highlights:
Category –The ‘Nepal Himalaya at its Best’
Region-Khumbu, Nepal
Grade-Grade 3
Time- Minimum recommended 14 trekking days
Height- Maximum 5500m
Style- Lodge
Itinerary for Everest Base Camp Trek:
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, take in the vibrant atmosphere of the capital city.
Day 02: Kathmandu Exploration and Trek Preparations
Embark on a day of sightseeing in Kathmandu, exploring its cultural and historical landmarks while making final preparations for your trek.
Day 03: Flight to Lukla and Trek to Phakding (2743m)
Take a scenic flight to Lukla at 2743 meters and commence your trek to Phakding, a picturesque village, in approximately 3-4 hours.
Day 04: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3440m)
Continue your journey through stunning landscapes as you trek to Namche Bazaar, situated at an altitude of 3440 meters, taking around 5 hours.
Day 05: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar
Take a day to acclimatize in Namche Bazaar, allowing your body to adjust to the increasing altitude.
Day 06: Trek to Deboche (3830m)
Embark on a 5-hour trek to Deboche, a serene village nestled at an altitude of 3830 meters.
Day 07: Trek to Pheriche (4240m)
Trek for approximately 7 hours to reach Pheriche, situated at 4240 meters, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views.
Day 08: Acclimatization Day in Pheriche
Allow your body to acclimatize further in Pheriche, ensuring a safe and comfortable ascent.
Day 09: Trek to Lobuche (4910m)
Continue your ascent as you trek to Lobuche, situated at an altitude of 4910 meters, in about 7 hours.
Day 10: Acclimatization Day in Lobuche
Spend a day acclimatizing in Lobuche, preparing for the higher altitudes ahead.
Day 11: Trek to Gorak Shep (5140m) and Everest Base Camp (5364m)
Embark on an 8-hour trek to Gorak Shep and then make your way to the iconic Everest Base Camp at 5364 meters.
Day 12: Gorak Shep, Climb Kala Patthar (5550m), and Descend to Lobuche
Experience the breathtaking views from Kala Patthar at 5550 meters before descending to Lobuche.
Day 13: Descent from Lobuche (4910m) to Thengboche (3860m)
Descend to Thengboche in approximately 7 hours, enjoying the changing landscapes.
Day 14: Trek to Monjo (2835m)
Continue your descent as you trek to Monjo, situated at 2835 meters, in about 6 hours.
Day 15: Trek to Lukla (2840m)
Conclude your trek with a 6-hour journey to Lukla, reflecting on the incredible experiences of the past days.
Day 16: Flight to Kathmandu
Fly back to Kathmandu, concluding your adventure with lasting memories of the Himalayan landscapes and cultural richness.
As with all ‘Travel Nepal Blog’ trekking itineraries, this is just a brief outline of the possibilities that this region can offer.