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Trip Facts
Trip Overview:
Embark on an extraordinary 12-day Everest Base Camp Trek, a journey that immerses you in the awe-inspiring heart of the Himalayas. Your journey begins with an exciting flight to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. Trek through the picturesque village of Phakding and on to Namche Bazaar, a bustling center known for its vibrant markets and breathtaking views. Explore Khumjung, where you will gain an insight into Sherpa culture and visit the famous Hillary School.
As you trek through Tengboche and Dingboche, acclimatize to the altitude while enjoying the breathtaking scenery. Prepare for a highlight of the trek — a challenging hike to Nagarjuna Peak, which rewards you with sweeping views of the Everest region and surrounding peaks.
The journey continues with ascents to Lobuche and Gorakshep, setting the stage for the grand arrival at Everest Base Camp (5,364 m). Stand at the foot of the world’s highest peak and immerse yourself in the majestic and breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas. The adventure reaches its climax with a sunrise hike to Kala Patthar (5,550 m), where the early morning light bathes Everest and the neighboring peaks in a heavenly glow, creating an unforgettable panorama.
After enjoying the breathtaking view of the sunrise, descend to your lodge in Gorakshep for breakfast. Once you have checked out, make your way to the helipad at the scheduled helicopter flight time. The helicopter flight from Gorakshep takes you over the tranquil village of Pheriche and offers a view of the Tengboche Monastery before making a short stopover in Lukla. You then continue your journey back to Kathmandu, taking with you unforgettable memories of your epic trek through Nepal’s majestic Himalayas.
Key Highlights
- Lukla: Begin with a scenic flight to Lukla and trek to Namche Bazaar, a bustling Sherpa town.
- Renjo La Pass: Tackle the high-altitude Renjo La Pass for breathtaking views of Himalayan giants and descend into the tranquil Thame Valley.
- Cho La Pass: Cross the challenging Cho La Pass, known for its rugged terrain and majestic views, arriving at Gorakshep, the last settlement before Everest Base Camp.
- Everest Base Camp: Trekking to EBC, which offers an insight into mountaineering at high altitudes.
- Kala Patthar: Ascend Kala Patthar for a close-up view of Everest's summit and sweeping panoramas of the Khumbu Glacier at sunrise.
- Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in the rich Sherpa culture and enjoy the warm hospitality of teahouses along the way.
Itinerary
You arrive in Kathmandu and are greeted with garlands of marigolds before being taken to your hotel. Use this day to relax and acclimatize to the vibrant capital. Explore the bustling local markets, sample traditional Nepalese dishes and immerse yourself in Kathmandu’s rich cultural offerings. This first day sets the stage for your adventure and promises breathtaking experiences on your way to Everest Base Camp in the Khumbu region. Our Nepalese partner, Mr. Narendra Bohara, a Natura-Tours representative, will meet you at the international airport to ensure a smooth and hospitable arrival.
We start the Everest Base Camp trek with a short morning flight from Kathmandu or Ramechhap to Lukla airport. If no direct flight to Lukla is available, we leave Kathmandu around 2to 3 am and drive to Ramechhap, which is about 132 km southeast of the city. The drive usually takes 4to 5 hours. After arriving in Ramechhap, we take our flight to Lukla.
At Lukla airport you will meet your porter and after a short tea break we will set off on our trek to Phakding. Today’s stage involves an ascent of 170 meters and a descent of 380 meters, covering a distance of about 7.9 km on foot, which will take you about 3-4 hours.
In Phakding, a charming village and the largest town in the area, most trekkers spend their first night in the mountains. Lunch is taken either halfway or on arrival in Phakding, depending on your preference. After some free time, you will meet with your guide in the hotel lobby to discuss the evening’s activities and the plan for the next day. You will spend the night at Hotel Sherpa or a similar standard hotel in Phakding.
Please note that seats cannot be reserved in advance; seats are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. There is a weight limit of 15 kg (33 lbs.) for your luggage: 10 kg at check-in and 5 kg for hand luggage. If you exceed these limits, you will be charged a substantial fee per kilogram.
We start the day with breakfast at the lodge before packing our bags and setting off for Namche Bazaar. The hike begins with a gentle ascent, crossing several suspension bridges and walking through lush pine forests. Over a distance of about 10 km, we will ascend 900 meters and descend 140 meters, which will take us about 6-7 hours.
As we gain altitude, we will enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and pass through traditional Sherpa villages. The trail offers panoramic views of the Everest region and crosses the Dudh Koshi River where we will see dramatic river gorges and terraced fields.
Lunch will be arranged either halfway or on arrival in Namche Bazaar, depending on your preference. This bustling center is the gateway to the Everest region and offers lively markets and outstanding views of the surrounding mountains. You will stay at the Hotel Zambala, Nirvana Home or a similar standard hotel in Namche Bazaar.
Explore the vibrant town of Namche Bazaar, known as the gateway to the Everest region, and embark on a scenic trip to the iconic Everest View Hotel. Wander through the narrow streets lined with colorful Tibetan prayer flags and traditional Sherpa houses, soaking in the lively atmosphere of this bustling mountain town. Visit local shops, bakeries, and markets, where you can browse for souvenirs and interact with friendly locals. After immersing yourself in the culture and charm of Namche Bazaar, set out on a memorable journey to the Everest View Hotel. Located atop a ridge with panoramic views of Everest and its neighboring peaks, this hotel offers an unparalleled vantage point to admire the majestic Himalayas. Enjoy a cup of hot tea or coffee on the hotel's terrace while marveling at the awe-inspiring scenery stretching out before you. Whether you're capturing stunning photographs of the world's highest peaks or simply basking in the tranquility of the mountains, a visit to the Everest View Hotel promises to be a highlight of your Everest Base Camp trekking adventure.
3,860 meters. This section of your journey reveals the grandeur of the Himalayas and offers breathtaking views of famous peaks such as Everest, Lhotse and Ama Dablam. You will cross rugged terrain and verdant forests, encounter suspension bridges adorned with colorful prayer flags and meander along serene mountain trails.
The trek covers around 9.65 kilometers and usually takes 5 to 6 hours. During the journey, you will ascend 770 meters and descend 330 meters. Known for its historic monastery and breathtaking views, Tengboche offers a peaceful setting to reflect and enjoy the majestic Himalayan scenery.
You will stay overnight in Tengboche at Tashi Delek Lodge or a lodge of a similar standard to ensure a comfortable and relaxing stay amidst these spectacular surroundings.
The journey from Tengboche via Pangboche to Dingboche offers trekkers a breathtaking blend of natural beauty and cultural richness in the heart of the
Everest region. You start in Tengboche, where the majestic Tengboche
Monastery forms a serene backdrop, trekkers embark on a trail that winds through dense forests and picturesque Sherpa villages, offering mesmerizing views of iconic Himalayan peaks. When you reach Pangboche, you have the opportunity to explore the old monastery and immerse yourself in the vibrant Sherpa culture. The ascent to Dingboche leads over rocky terrain and alpine meadows, culminating in panoramic views of towering peaks and the expansive Khumbu Valley below.
Dingboche serves as an important acclimatization point, allowing trekkers to acclimatize to the altitude and enjoy the breathtaking backdrop of Lhotse and Ama Dablam. This section of the trek not only challenges adventurers, but also rewards them with unforgettable experiences and insights into the natural wonders and cultural heritage of the
Everest region. With its fascinating landscapes, charming villages and deep-rooted Sherpa traditions
Sherpa traditions, the journey from Tengboche to Dingboche via Pangboche promises to leave an indelible impression on the hearts and minds of all who embark on this remarkable adventure.
The distance between Tengboche and Dingboche is about 11,00 km and it will take us about 5-6 hours to get there. During our trek today, we will ascend 640 meters and descend 180 meters. We will reserve a room for the overnight stay, either at the Hotel
Mountain Paradize or in a lodge of similar standard in Dingboche
On this day of the trek, you have a choice: either take a well-deserved rest day or tackle the optional day hike to Nangkar Tshang peak, which is up to 4,996 meters high. The rest day offers trekkers an invaluable opportunity to recover and acclimatize to the high altitude to ensure their bodies are adequately prepared for the challenges ahead. It is a chance to recover from physical exertion, prevent altitude-related illnesses and recharge your batteries amidst the tranquil surroundings. The rest day also offers hikers the opportunity to engage in light activities such as yoga or meditation, explore the local culture and customs and enjoy the breathtaking mountain scenery without the pressure of trekking.
Alternatively, the optional day hike to Nangkar Tshang Peak offers a thrilling adventure for those seeking additional thrills and breathtaking panoramic views. With an impressive altitude of 4,996 meters, this challenging hike offers the opportunity to scale a high peak and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan landscape. The hike leads over rugged terrain, steep slopes and rocky ridges and is therefore only suitable for experienced hikers with a good level of fitness. Along the way, you will be rewarded with unparalleled views of snow-capped peaks, deep valleys and pristine glaciers, giving you a sense of achievement and adventure.
Whether you opt for a rest day or take the optional day hike to Nangkar Tshang Peak, trekkers have unique opportunities to enhance their experience at Everest Base Camp. Whether you are looking for relaxation and recreation or adventure and exploration, both options promise unforgettable moments amidst the awe-inspiring beauty of the Himalayas. The distance between Dingboche and Nangkar Tshang Peak is about 4.10 km and it will take you about 4-5 hours to get there. During our trek today, we will ascend 670 vertical meters and descend 670 vertical meters. We will reserve a room for the overnight stay, either at Hotel Mountain Paradize or at a lodge of similar standard in Dingboche.
The hike from Dingboche to Lobuche is a challenging but rewarding stage of the Everest Base Camp trip
Everest base camp trip. It offers hikers breathtaking views of the Himalayas and a deeper immersion in the high-altitude landscape. The start is in Dingboche
(4,410m), a picturesque village nestled beneath the towering peaks of Lhotse and
Ama Dablam, the hikers take time to acclimatize before continuing their ascent. The colorful prayer flags and traditional stone houses of the village give an insight into the rich Sherpa culture of the region.
The trail winds through rugged terrain and gradually ascends to higher altitudes. Hikers cross rocky paths and glacial moraines, with breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks at every turn. Along the way, you will encounter yaks grazing on alpine meadows and remote Sherpa settlements, which add to the charm of the hike. The trail is lined with prayer wheels, stupas and mani stones and exudes a spiritual atmosphere.
After about 5-6 hours of trekking, you will reach Lobuche (4,910 m), a rugged outpost amidst the rugged beauty of the Khumbu region. Lobuche serves as an important resting point before the final push to Everest Base Camp and offers basic amenities such as teahouses and lodges. From here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Khumbu Glacier and nearby peaks such as Pumori and Nuptse, giving you a taste of the adventures that await you on your journey.
The distance between Dingboche and Lobuche is about 8.29 km and it will take you about 5-6 hours to get there. During our trek today, we will ascend 620 meters and descend 30 meters. We will reserve a room for the overnight stay, either at the New
EBC Guest House or in a lodge of similar standard in Lobuche.
The trek from Lobuche to Gorakshep, followed by an exploration of Everest Base Camp
Base Camp is an important milestone on the way to the summit of Mount Everest
Everest. From Lobuche, which lies at an altitude of 4,910 meters, trekkers embark on a trail framed by the majestic peaks of Pumori and Nuptse. Lobuche serves as a crucial resting point before the final push to Everest Base Camp, offering essential amenities to recover and prepare for the challenges ahead.
On the way to Gorakshep, you will cross rocky terrain and glacial moraines and climb steadily higher. The landscape unfolds with panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks and offers glimpses of Mt
Everest on the horizon as Gorakshep draws closer. This section of the journey sets the stage for the exploration of Everest Base Camp, where trekkers will experience the rugged beauty of the Khumbu Glacier and the awe-inspiring majesty of the world’s highest mountain.
Once in Gorakshep, you will set off on a final trek to Everest Base Camp, which will take you through the rugged terrain of the Khumbu Glacier. After hours of trekking, you will reach the base camp, which is located amidst the ice and rocks beneath the towering peaks of Mount Everest. Here, hikers immerse themselves in the surreal surroundings, capture unforgettable photos and enjoy the feeling of standing at the foot of the world’s highest peak.
Overall, this section of the trek is a challenging but rewarding experience that gives trekkers an unforgettable encounter with the majesty of Mount Everest and the Himalayan landscape
Himalayan landscape.
The distance between Lobuche and Gorakshep via Everst Base Camp is about 13.50 km and it will take you about 7-8 hours to get there. During our trek today, we will ascend 430 meters and descend 190 meters. We will reserve a room for the overnight stay, either at Buddha Lodge or at a lodge of similar standard in Gorakshep
Start the day with an early morning hike to Kala Patthar, which lies at an altitude of 5,550 meters. This hike is particularly rewarding as it offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the sunrise over some of the world’s highest peaks, including Mount Everest, Lhotse and Nuptse. The early morning light bathes the mountains in a golden hue, creating an unforgettable and awe-inspiring image. After enjoying the magnificent sunrise and taking lots of photos, you make your way back to your lodge in Gorakshep. On the way back, trekkers have the opportunity to reflect on the awe-inspiring beauty of the Himalayas and the unforgettable moments on Kala Patthar. On the way down, you will have breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers, with the towering peaks of Ama Dablam and Lhotse dominating the landscape. The distance between Gorakshep and Kala Patthar is about 3.60 kilometers and the estimated trekking time is 3 to 4 hours. During today’s trek, we will ascend 420 meters in altitude and then descend 420 meters in altitude.
Once you have had some time to rest and pack your things, get ready for an exciting helicopter ride back to Kathmandu. This helicopter flight not only saves you time, but also gives you a unique aerial perspective of the Himalayan landscape. You can see the rugged terrain, deep valleys and towering peaks from a completely different angle. After your arrival in Kathmandu, you will be taken to your accommodation, where you can relax and reflect on the incredible experiences of your trek. You will spend the night in the Kathmandu Guest House or in a hotel of a similar standard in Kathmandu
Relax at the hotel or explore Thamel for shopping or massage etc. You can also ask our representative to organise a guided tour of Kathmandu.
Embark on a guided sightseeing tour starting from Kathmandu Durbar Square, a
UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the era of the Malla kings with its courtyards, temples and palaces, including the Hanuman Dhoka Palace and the revered Kumari
Ghar. Witness the daily rituals at Kal Bhairav Temple and meet vibrant sadhus in orange robes. Continue to Patan Durbar Square, known as the “City of Fine Arts”
discover ancient temples, palaces and sculptures such as the Krishna Mandir and the
Mahabouddha Temple, showcasing the rich Newari heritage of Patan.
End the tour at Swayambhunath, the “Monkey Temple’,” on a hill overlooking the Kathmandu Valley. Climb the stone steps amidst fluttering prayer flags and playful monkeys to discover panoramic views and tranquil stupas. Gain insights into Buddhist philosophy and symbolism amidst the timeless atmosphere of prayer and meditation and leave with a deeper understanding of Nepal’s spiritual heritage and the cultural treasures of Kathmandu, Patan and Swayambhunath.Overnight at Kathmandu Guest House.
After enjoying your last breakfast in Nepal, you should check out of your room and store your luggage at the hotel. You can relax in the hotel lobby or explore the local market to do some last minute shopping for friends and family before heading to the airport.
The driver and airport escort will be waiting for you in the hotel lobby at the agreed departure time, which we will confirm after your trekking feedback meeting with Mr. Narendra Bohara.
As space at Kathmandu airport is limited, the airlines ask passengers to arrive at the check-in counter three hours before the departure time. To accommodate this, we will pick you up from your hotel three and a half hours before your flight. The estimated travel time to the airport is approximately 30 minutes.
We hope that your visit to Nepal and the experience you have had will inspire you to return in the future. As per Natura-Tours’ service policy, your trip will end with a farewell at the airport where we will present you with a traditional khata and wish you a safe and pleasant journey home. Thank you for choosing to travel with us. We look forward to welcoming you again on your next adventure.
Cost Included:
- Transfers: All transfers within Nepal as described in the itinerary.
- Domestic flights: All domestic flights within Nepal as per the trekking itinerary
- Accommodation: Trekking accommodation, including hotels, lodges and/or tents as specified in the itinerary.
- Shared accommodation: Small shared rooms with shared bathrooms during the trek.
- Stay in Kathmandu/Pokhara: Accommodation in Kathmandu and/or Pokhara in a 3-star hotel with breakfast.
- Luggage transportation: Porters carry up to 12.5 kg of luggage per person during the trek.
- Meals: Three meals daily (breakfast, lunch and dinner) during the trek.
- Drinks: Unlimited tea or coffee with breakfast during the trek.
- Guide: An English speaking guide for the trekking, a climbing Sherpa and/or a tour according to the itinerary.
- Trekking staff insurance: Travel insurance for the trekking staff, including guides and porters.
- Trekking staff expenses: All expenses incurred by the trekking staff during the trek.
- Park fees: Entrance fees to protected areas and national parks.
- Permits: Any special trekking or climbing permits.
- Sightseeing: Sightseeing activities or wildlife tours if included in the itinerary.
- Farewell dinner: One farewell dinner in Kathmandu before departure.
Cost Excluded:
- Single room/special tent: Single room or single tent at extra charge (available on request).
- International Flights: International round trip or one way flight tickets to Nepal.
- Tourist Visa: Tourist visa for Nepal (approx. $30-$50, depending on length of stay).
- Personal Insurance: Personal insurance for trip/flight cancellation, helicopter rescue.
- Meals: Lunch and dinner at the hotels in Kathmandu, Pokhara and other cities.
- Tipping: Recommended tip for trekking staff (approx. 9€ / 10$ per traveller per day).
- Drinks: Soft drinks, hot drinks or mineral water during the lodge trekking.
- Personal equipment: Personal trekking and/or climbing equipment for trekking tours in Nepal.
- Hotel costs: Additional hotel costs in case of early return from trekking for any reason.
- Flight cancellations and additional costs: Costs due to flight cancellations, additional porters or horses during the trek.
- Additional services: Cost of additional services and –helicopter shuttle flights between KTM and Lukla.
- Unexpected costs: Additional costs incurred for reasons beyond the control of the local partner company or Natura-Tours.
- Costs related to pandemics: Costs related to pandemics such as COVID-19 if they occur in the future.
- Personal expenses: Costs related to the use of phones, Wi-Fi, showers, recharging etc. during the trek.
- Costs not mentioned: All other costs that are not explicitly mentioned in the included services.