Everest Base Camp tour
15 Days Starting and ending in 27.717245,85.323960
Visiting: Nepal
Tour operator:
Tour code:
31
Recommended For:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 12
Age range:
12-75
Special diets catered:
Request dietary needs
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Tour Overview
If getting close to the world’s highest mountain is on your travel wish list, then this Mount Everest tour in Nepal is perfect for you.
We run various treks in Nepal, but getting up close to Mount Everest is no easy feat. Plenty of preparation is required if you intend to take on the Everest base camp trek.
Even though we’re not heading to the Everest summit, the feeling of achievement is incredibly rewarding and worth it at the end though, not to mention the fantastic scenery and wondrous sights you will experience along the way.
Trekking in Nepal is on the list of many people's life goals and doing it with an organised group is the safest way to go about it.
This Mount Everest tour in Nepal starts in the capital of Kathmandu, where you will be met and taken to the first night's hotel with time to explore the historic and intriguing city before catching a flight to Lukla the next morning to begin the two week Everest base camp trek.
The trek to Base Camp is sensibly paced with a couple of acclimatisation days in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche to break it up and ensure everyone in the group is comfortable.
Each day involves climbing higher and taking in the wondrous views of the imposing Everest and snow-topped Himalayas, with evenings spent residing in friendly trekking lodges found along the way. We find that this makes trekking in Nepal a much more enjoyable and social experience than sleeping out in the cold under a tent.
After seven or eight days, depending on weather and other circumstances, a final push up the Khumbu Valley and we'll reach base camp, with the chance for an extra hike up to Kala Pattar for the best view of Mount Everest.
Then we descend back down through the mountains before flying back to Kathmandu.
As flights between Lukla and Kathmandu can at times be delayed or cancelled due to weather conditions, we recommend adding at least 1 extra night post-tour in Kathmandu.
All those joining our Everest Base Camp Trek will receive free trekking pack hire (normally costs $45), containing a down jacket and sleeping bag; suitable for the season in which you are travelling.
Highlights
Itinerary
We greet you on your arrival in Kathmandu airport today and transfer you to your hotel in the Thamel tourist district of the city. Our rep will help you settle in and familiarise you with the local area.
OVERNIGHT:
Kathmandu hotel
MEALS:
None
EXTRAS:
Single room supplement (NPSGEB)
Extra day in Kathmandu - pre-tour
DAY 2: Fly to Lukla and start trekking to Phakding
Your Everest tour in Nepal officially starts today. We catch the short early morning flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,800m) and start trekking to Phakding (2,652m). Descending out of Lukla the trail gently winds its way along the river and serves as an easy introduction to the harder days ahead. We overnight at Phakding at one of the many comfortable trekking lodges.
Situated along the Dudh Kosi river valley, Phakding offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lush greenery. The village is known for its traditional Sherpa culture, stone houses, and warm hospitality. Visitors can explore the local gompa (Buddhist monastery) or simply relax in one of the many tea houses, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and stunning scenery.
Trekking time: Approx. 2 1/2 hours
OVERNIGHT:
Phakding trekking lodge
MEALS:
Breakfast
EXTRAS:
Trekking Pack
DAY 3: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar
The day starts gently as we make our way along the river to the entrance of the Sagamartha National Park, where we will obtain our trekking permits and register with the park authorities. Soon the trail starts to rise for a long climb up to Namche Bazaar (3,446m), where we stop for the night.
Namche Bazaar, often referred to as the "gateway to Everest," is a vibrant Sherpa town perched high in the Himalayas. Its amphitheater-like setting, surrounded by towering peaks, offers awe-inspiring vistas. This bustling trading hub is a melting pot of cultures, where trekkers and mountaineers from across the globe mingle with local Sherpa people. The narrow, stone-paved streets are lined with colorful prayer flags, tea houses, souvenir shops, and bakeries. Namche Bazaar is also home to the Sagarmatha National Park Museum, providing insights into the region's unique ecosystem and Sherpa culture. It's a place to acclimatize, soak in the mountain ambiance, and experience the warmth of Sherpa hospitality.
Trekking time: Approx. 5 hours
OVERNIGHT:
Namche Bazaar trekking lodge
MEALS:
None
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 4: Namche Bazaar, acclimatisation day
Today is a free day in Namche Bazaar for acclimatisation - one of the most important things to do on any Everest tour in Nepal.
This colourful Sherpa town is a great place to spend time exploring. There are numerous shops and stalls selling everything from cut price trekking gear to Buddhist prayer flags. Its internet cafes, bakeries and cafes are also popular with the many visitors. Of course, if you're not too tired, there are plenty of interesting and scenic day walks you can do if wish. We overnight at a lodge in Namche Bazaar.
OVERNIGHT:
Namche Bazaar trekking lodge
MEALS:
None
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 5: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Thengboche
Leaving Namche Bazaar behind our goal today is the village of Thengboche, which lies on top of the next ridge. This means we start the day with a long descent through Rhododendron forests down to the suspension bridge at Phunki Tenga (3,250m). Then we start the climb and it really is a strenuous climb, as now we have to fight against the altitude as well at the steepness of the trail. Eventually we crest the ridge and arrive at Thengboche (3,870m), from where, on a clear day, the views of Everest and Lhotse are magnificent. We overnight at a lodge in Thengboche.
Thengboche itself is primarily known for its prominent monastery, which is a beacon of spirituality and serenity, set amidst the awe-inspiring mountain landscape. Its red-roofed buildings, adorned with colorful prayer flags, stand as a testament to the enduring faith of the Sherpa people. The monastery is home to a community of Buddhist monks who dedicate their lives to prayer and meditation, creating an atmosphere of peace and contemplation. Visitors are welcome to witness the monks' daily rituals, explore the monastery's intricate artwork and statues, and soak in the panoramic views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and other majestic peaks. Thengboche Monastery is not just a religious site; it's a place of profound beauty and cultural significance, leaving a lasting impression on all who visit.
Trekking time: Approx. 5 hours plus any side walks
OVERNIGHT:
Thengboche trekking lodge
MEALS:
None
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 6: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche
Today's trekking takes us through beautiful Rhododendron forests as we follow the river up the Imja valley towards Dingboche. Along this stretch of the trail there is a good possibility of spotting the elusive musk deer, an endangered species indigenous to the area. Leaving the forests behind, we end the day with a steep climb up to Dingboche (4,410m). We overnight at a lodge in Dingboche.
Surrounded by towering peaks like Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Island Peak, the village of Dingboche offers breathtaking scenery in every direction. Its sprawling fields, dotted with stone walls and grazing yaks, create a sense of tranquility and rural charm. Dingboche is also known for its network of hiking trails, leading to viewpoints like Nangkartshang Peak, offering even more spectacular vistas of the Himalayan giants. With its combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and opportunities for exploration, Dingboche is a highlight for many trekkers on their journey to Everest.
Trekking time: Approx. 4 hours
OVERNIGHT:
Dingboche trekking lodge
MEALS:
None
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 7: Dingboche, acclimatisation day
We spend the day in Dingboche acclimatising to the high altitude. This beautiful Sherpa village is a patchwork of small fields enclosed by stonewalls and offers wonderful views of the surrounding mountains. If you don't feel like resting you can head up the valley towards Chukung for even better views. We overnight at a lodge in Dingboche.
OVERNIGHT:
Dingboche trekking lodge
MEALS:
None
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 8: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche
Climbing up from Dingboche we follow the valley high up on one side until we reach Dughla (4,620m) and the entrance to the Khumbu valley. Heading up the Khumbu valley, a steep climb takes us over the Thokla Pass (4,830m) then we follow the edge of the glacial moraine onto Lobuche (4,910m). We overnight at a lodge in Lobuche.
Lobuche is a stark yet captivating village in Nepal's Khumbu region, sits in the shadow of towering peaks, including the majestic Lobuche Peak itself. Its high altitude and rugged terrain create a sense of remoteness and adventure, making it a crucial stop for trekkers acclimatizing before their final push to Everest Base Camp. The village consists of a cluster of stone lodges and tea houses, offering basic comforts and warm hospitality amidst the harsh environment. Despite its starkness, Lobuche boasts incredible views of the surrounding mountains, including the Khumbu Glacier, and the night sky, unpolluted by city lights, is a breathtaking spectacle of stars.
Trekking time: Approx. 4 hours
OVERNIGHT:
Lobuche trekking lodge
MEALS:
None
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 9: Trek from Gorak Shep to Everest Base Camp (flexible day)
Today we continue up the edge of the Khumbu glacier until we finally reach Everest Base Camp (5,364m). If you're lucky and the timing is right you may see expeditions preparing to climb Mount Everest. After spending some time to enjoy the surroundings and the completion of our goal, we make our way back down to Lobuche. We overnight at a lodge in Gorak Shep.
Trekking time: Approx. 5-6 hours
OVERNIGHT:
Gorak Shep trekking lodge
MEALS:
None
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 10: Trek from Gorak Shep to Kalar Pattar ending in Dughla (flexible day)
Starting from Gorak Shep, we ascend to Kalar Pattar, a vantage point renowned for its breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Everest and the surrounding Himalayan giants. This climb, though steep and demanding, is well worth the effort for the unforgettable vistas it offers. From Kalar Pattar, the trail descends gradually towards Dughla, passing through rocky terrain and offering glimpses of the Khumbu Glacier. This section of the trek, while less strenuous than the ascent, requires careful footing due to the uneven path. The journey from Gorak Shep to Dughla via Kala Patthar is a testament to the awe-inspiring beauty of the Himalayas and the resilience of those who venture into its embrace.
During this part of our Everest tour in Nepal, we keep our itinerary for today and tomorrow flexible, depending on the weather and how people are handling the altitude.
Trekking time: Approx. 5-6 hours
OVERNIGHT:
Dughla trekking lodge
MEALS:
None
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 11: Start descent towards Pangboche
Having acclimatised well to the altitude and gained some extra fitness on the way up, the trekking feels much easier now as you descend back down the trail towards Lukla. The next three days are flexible and we'll stop at lodges en-route based on how far we feel comfortable walking each day. You'll make regular stops to look back at the high peaks you've come so close to, and the views in front of you and up the side valleys also look and feel very different in this direction.
Trekking time: Approx. 5-6 hours
OVERNIGHT:
Pheriche / Pangboche trekking lodge
MEALS:
None
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 12: Continue descending to Namche Bazaar
We continue our descent today, arriving back into Namche Bazaar with its welcome shops, hot water and services. You can even access the internet again here and send messages to update friends and family back home on your progress.
Trekking time: Approx. 5-6 hours
OVERNIGHT:
Namche Bazaar trekking lodge
MEALS:
None
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 13: Finish trek in Lukla
Our trek finishes today with the long walk back down from Namche Bazaar to Lukla. As a final treat, there's a steep climb up to Lukla to finish.
Trekking time: Approx. 8-9 hours
OVERNIGHT:
Lukla trekking lodge
MEALS:
None
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 14: Fly back to Kathmandu, free time
This morning we catch the flight from Lukla back to Kathmandu, where we transfer you to your city centre hotel. The rest of the day is free. You can also arrange some tours with your local guide today if you've chosen to add extra nights in Kathmandu.
OVERNIGHT:
Kathmandu hotel
MEALS:
None
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 15: Kathmandu, free time, transfer to airport
We've reached the end of our Everest tour in Nepal. Your last day in Kathmandu is free for you to catch up on some last minute souvenir shopping and exploring before we transfer you to the airport for your flight home.
As delays and/or cancellations can occasionally occur on flights from Lukla, we strongly recommend adding at least 1 extra night post-tour in Kathmandu.
OVERNIGHT:
N/A
MEALS:
Breakfast
EXTRAS:
Everest Mountain Flight
Bardia National Park Extension
Trisuli white water rafting
Panauti Community Homestay Extension - 1 Night post-tour
Extra day in Kathmandu - post-tour
What's Included
What's Not Included
Mode of Transport
A/C minibus
Flight
Accommodation
3-star hotels
Trekking lodges
Check out our Q&As
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What should I know before I travel?
It is important when considering and preparing to travel anywhere in the world that you have a good understanding of the country you are visiting, its laws and customs, and the possible risks and situations that may occur. This includes specific risks related to your itinerary (eg. does it involve water & can you swim, are you fit enough for the activities included), as well as more general risks such as terrorism and natural disasters.
General details and links to more information about health risks, visa requirements, money, and travel insurance are given in these tour notes. We recommend that you re-read all these before your departure as well as the small print of your travel insurance policy so you know exactly what is covered and what is not.
You should take copies of your important travel documents with you and ideally also store them online securely as a backup. Make sure that you have given us your emergency contact details and told that person where and when you are travelling. Ensure you take enough money with you and that you have access to emergency funds.
Finally, you should read through and stay updated with the current official government travel advice for your destination. We are registered partners with the UK Foreign Office's 'Travel Aware' campaign which provides further useful and invaluable information. -
Are airport transfers included in this tour?
This tour include a 24-hour airport arrival and departure transfer service at Kathmandu airport and all other transfers. There will be a collection of people waiting on the far side of an airport service road immediately in front of you. Please look out for an Encounters Travel signboard to find our representative. You will be pestered for tips by porters who try to carry your luggage. We suggest you either be firm and insist on carrying your own luggage, or if you want assistance, wait until you have met our representative and then let him arrange the porter for you. You will need to have some money ready for a small tip (eg. up to NRs 50 or a single US Dollar bill).
Your airport transfers are only included on the first and last day of the set tour itinerary, plus on any additional days if you book your hotel room with us. If you make your own arrangements for additional accommodation at either the beginning or the end of the tour then you will need to arrange your own airport transfers on these days. -
Are vaccinations required for this tour?
You should ensure you are fully insured for medical emergencies including emergency evacuation and repatriation.
Recommended vaccinations and other health protection measures vary according to the country you are visiting and where you are travelling from. We recommend you contact your GP/medical practitioner or a travel clinic for current information on vaccinations needed for your destination. You should ensure that you are up to date with vaccines and boosters recommended for your normal life at home, including for example, vaccines required for occupational risk of exposure, lifestyle risks and underlying medical conditions. In addition, additional courses or boosters normally recommended for the countries in this region are:
Nepal: Additional vaccinations: Diptheria, Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from or having transitted through an infected area.
Bhutan: Additional vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from or having transitted through an infected area.
Tibet: Additional vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from or having transitted through an infected area.
Malaria: Vaccinations are not available against Malaria, which is a disease transmitted by mosquitoes that can be very serious and sometimes fatal. You should avoid mosquito bites by covering up bare skin with clothing such as long sleeves and long trousers and applying insect repellents to exposed skin. When necessary, sleep under a mosquito net. Mosquitoes are most active during and after sunset. You should consult with your GP/medical practitioner/travel clinic about the most appropriate malaria prophylactic medication to take for the regions you are visiting. In general the lowland regions Bhutan are considered malarial zones, while higher altitudes including central Bhutan including Paro, Thimphu, Punakha and Bumthang are not. Nepal is considered mainly low risk with prophylactics not normally required.
Yellow Fever: This disease is spread by infected mosquitoes that bite during the day. A Yellow Fever Certificate of vacinnation may be required as a condition of entry depending on which country you are arriving from, or that you have travelled or transitted through recently (including connecting flights with stopovers of over 12 hours). You can view this US CDC information about where the virus is present and follow the links to further information detailing which countries need you to have a Yellow Fever vaccination as part of their entry requirements. Please ensure you have this certificate with you and to hand if necessary. Please inform us of any pre-existing conditions such as diabetes or asthma and any prescription medicine you may be taking. We also need to know about any food allergies or physical disabilities that you may have. -
Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
Fully trained English-speaking Nepalese trekking guides are provided on this tour and many of our travellers consider them a highlight of their tour. We also provide a fully trained English-speaking guide for any sightseeing tours. For groups of 1-6 travellers we provide one trekking guide plus porters, and for groups of 7 to 12, two guides are provided plus porters.
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Are all the relevant entry visa’s included in the price of the tour?
isa arrangements are the responsibility of the traveller, and requirements are subject to change by the local authorities.
Many nationals can obtain their Nepalese visa in Kathmandu airport upon arrival (including UK, EU, US, CA, AU, NZ, SA citizens). The costs for a single entry visa are currently:
- up to 15 days - US$ 25
- 16 to 30 days - US$ 40
- 31 to 90 days - US$ 100
An additional $20 fee is charged to convert these into a multiple entry visa which will be needed for any tours returning to Nepal after visiting Bhutan or Tibet.
The visa is obtained in the immigration area at the point where your passport is stamped. Forms to fill in are available in this immigration hall and may also be given out on your flight (if so, do fill them in before you land as it will reduce your queuing time). You will also need to fill in an arrivals card. Once your paperwork is completed, head to the immigration desk and hand over your forms, 2 passport photos, your visa fee and passport. The visa fees are set in US Dollars, but you can also pay in other currencies, but don't rely on getting given change.
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Are all entrance fees included in the price?
All your entry fees and permits are included in the price of the tour to cover entry into the trekking conservation areas, and sites on any optional city tours added.
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Is travel insurance compulsory?
Yes! Travel insurance is compulsory on all of our tours and needs to cover personal accident & liability, medical expenses and repatriation, travel delay & abandonment. We also strongly recommend that you take out cover against cancellation and lost/stolen baggage. Personal medical insurance does not normally provide sufficient cover and is generally not suitable for travel on our tours. You will not be able to join your tour if you have not provided us with details of your insurance or if you arrive without cover in place (no refunds will be due in this event).
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
You are always able to change your travel date. However, some charges may apply depending on how long before your departure you make the change. Our flexible booking conditions and reduced charges will apply if you are changing date because of a Covid-19 reason or because your government is advising against travel to your destination. Please check our detailed booking conditions for full details.
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When is my balance payment due?
60 days prior to departure
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
On most of our group tours, solo travellers may choose to form a temporary 'tour bubble' and share a room with another traveller of the same sex in the group. If a room share is not available then a single room supplement may be payable, with the costs for these kept as low as possible. We have also removed compulsory single supplements from many of our tours, and are reducing the cost by 50% on s
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Can I transfer my booking to someone else?
Customers may transfer their booking or any Credit on File to another person who satisfies all the relevant conditions to the tour, provided that we are notified not less than 7 days before departure, and the transferee agrees to these booking conditions and all other terms of the contract between us. The Client and new booker are jointly and severally responsible for any outstanding payments and a transfer administration fee of GBP50 / USD75 / CAD100 / AUD100 / NZD100 / EUR75 / ZAR1000 / INR5000 or GBP100 / USD150 / CAD200 / AUD200 / NZD200 / EUR150 / ZAR2000 / INR10,000 if the transfer is made less than 60 days before departure. Important Note: Certain arrangements may not be amended or transferred after they have been confirmed (for example flight tickets, Gorilla Permits) and any alteration could incur a cancellation and rebooking charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements.
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Free Date Changes
CTS demo white label allows you to make 20 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
CTS demo white label requires a minimum deposit of 55% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.
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