14-Day Everest Base Camp & Kala Patthar Trek from Kathmandu
5.0
(1)
Trek to Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar on this carefully planned 14-day adventure from Kathmandu. Walk through famous Sherpa villages, visit ancient Buddhist monasteries, and experience breathtaking views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam with an experienced local guide.
Private
Himalaya
14 Days
Mar - May, Sep - Nov
High
Intermediate
Highlights
- Reach Everest Base Camp at 5,364 metres and walk beside the dramatic Khumbu Glacier.
- Hike to Kala Patthar, approximately 5,545 metres, for panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse and Ama Dablam.
- Experience the Khumbu region’s Sherpa culture in Namche Bazaar, traditional mountain villages and historic Tengboche Monastery.
- Follow a carefully paced itinerary with two acclimatization days, an experienced local guide and porter support.
Description
The Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the world’s most iconic high-altitude adventures. This 14- day journey takes you deep into Nepal’s Khumbu region, following the legendary trail used by mountaineers travelling toward Mount Everest.
Your adventure begins with a spectacular mountain flight to Lukla. From there, you will trek through Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche and Gorak Shep before reaching Everest Base Camp at 5,364 metres.
You will also hike to Kala Patthar at approximately 5,545 metres, one of the best viewpoints for seeing Mount Everest and the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
Along the way, you will cross exciting suspension bridges, visit Tengboche Monastery, experience traditional Sherpa culture and walk beside the impressive Khumbu Glacier. The itinerary includes two important acclimatization days in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche.
These days help your body adjust gradually to the altitude and improve your chances of reaching Everest Base Camp safely. You will trek with an experienced, English-speaking local guide who will manage the walking pace, monitor your condition and assist throughout the journey. One porter is provided for every two trekkers, allowing you to walk with only a small daypack.
No technical climbing experience is required. However, travellers should have good physical fitness, a positive attitude and the ability to walk for approximately 5–8 hours per day in mountain conditions.
Price includes
- Accommodation included
- Guiding fee
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Transportation start and back
- Permit and entrance fees
- Mountain guide expenses
- Tents
- Local flights
- Sleeping bag
Meeting point
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu – 1,350m
Welcome to Nepal! A representative from Scenic Nepal Treks will meet you at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu.
Depending on your arrival time, you can rest at the hotel or explore the lively streets of Thamel. You will meet our team for a trip briefing and equipment check.
- Driving: Approximately 30–45 minutes - Accommodation: Hotel - Meals: None
Day 2: Fly to Lukla and trek to Phakding – 2,610m
After an early breakfast, transfer to the airport for the exciting mountain flight to Lukla. During the flight, you can enjoy spectacular views of Nepal’s hills and Himalayan mountains. After meeting the trekking team in Lukla, begin walking through Chaurikharka and several small Sherpa settlements. The trail descends gradually toward the Dudh Koshi River before reaching Phakding.
- Walking distance: Approximately 8 km/5 miles - Walking time: Approximately 3–4 hours - Altitude: Lukla 2,860m to Phakding 2,610m
Day 3: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar – 3,440m
Follow the Dudh Koshi River through beautiful pine forests and traditional villages. Cross several suspension bridges and enter Sagarmatha National Park at Monjo.
After lunch, cross the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge and begin the long uphill climb to Namche Bazaar. On a clear day, you may receive your first distant view of Mount Everest.
Walking distance: Approximately 11 km/6.8 miles
Walking time: Approximately 6–7 hours
Altitude gain: Approximately 830m
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 4: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar – 3,440m
Spend an additional night in Namche to help your body adjust to the altitude. After breakfast, take an acclimatization hike toward the Everest View Hotel. From the viewpoint, enjoy magnificent views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku and Kongde Ri. Depending on conditions, you may also visit Khumjung village before returning to Namche. The afternoon is free to explore Namche Bazaar, visit the Sherpa Culture Museum or relax at the teahouse.
- Walking distance: Approximately 5–7 km/3–4.3 miles - Walking time: Approximately 3–5 hours - Maximum altitude: Approximately 3,880m - Accommodation: Teahouse - Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 5: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche – 3,860m
Follow a beautiful hillside trail with panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse and Ama Dablam. Descend toward the Dudh Koshi River before climbing through rhododendron and pine forests to Tengboche.
After arriving, visit Tengboche Monastery, the largest and most important Buddhist monastery in the Everest region.
- Walking distance: Approximately 10 km/6.2 miles - Walking time: Approximately 5–6 hours - Net altitude gain: Approximately 420m - Accommodation: Teahouse - Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 6: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche – 4,410m
Descend through forest to Deboche and cross the Imja River. Continue through Pangboche, onemof the oldest Sherpa settlements in the Khumbu region.
The landscape gradually becomes more open and alpine as you walk toward Dingboche. Enjoy excellent views of Ama Dablam throughout the journey.
- Walking distance: Approximately 11 km/6.8 miles - Walking time: Approximately 5–6 hours - Net altitude gain: Approximately 550m - Accommodation: Teahouse - Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 7: Acclimatization Day in Dingboche – 4,410m
Take another essential acclimatization day in Dingboche. Hike toward Nangkartshang Hill,
depending on your fitness, weather and trail conditions. The viewpoint provides outstanding views of Ama Dablam, Makalu, Lhotse, Island Peak and thesurrounding valleys. Return to Dingboche for lunch and spend the afternoon resting.
- Walking distance: Approximately 5–7 km/3–4.3 miles - Walking time: Approximately 4–5 hours - Maximum altitude: Approximately 4,800–5,000m, depending on the hike - Accommodation: Teahouse - Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 8: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche – 4,910m
Follow the broad valley above Pheriche before reaching Thukla. After lunch, climb steeply to the Thukla Pass, where you will see memorials dedicated to climbers who lost their lives on Everest.
Continue gradually toward Lobuche, surrounded by dramatic Himalayan scenery.
- Walking distance: Approximately 8 km/5 miles - Walking time: Approximately 5–6 hours - Net altitude gain: Approximately 500m - Accommodation: Teahouse - Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 9: Trek to Gorak Shep and Everest Base Camp – 5,364m
Today is one of the most important days of the journey. Trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep, following a rocky trail beside the Khumbu Glacier. After a short break and lunch at Gorak Shep, continue toward Everest Base Camp. The trail crosses glacial moraine and rocky terrain before reaching the famous base camp. Celebrate your achievement, take photographs and enjoy views of the Khumbu Icefall and surrounding peaks. Afterwards, return to Gorak Shep for the night. Please note that the summit of Everest is generally not visible from Base Camp. The best close view of Everest is from Kala Patthar.
- Walking distance: Approximately 12 km/7.5 miles - Walking time: Approximately 7–8 hours - Maximum altitude: Everest Base Camp, 5,364m - Sleeping altitude: Gorak Shep, approximately 5,164m - Accommodation: Teahouse - Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 10: Hike to Kala Patthar and trek to Pheriche – 4,240m
Begin early for the challenging climb to Kala Patthar. From the viewpoint, enjoy one of the finest panoramas of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumori and the Khumbu Glacier. After spending time at the viewpoint, descend to Gorak Shep for breakfast. Continue downhill through Lobuche and Thukla before reaching Pheriche.
- Walking distance: Approximately 13–15 km/8–9.3 miles - Walking time: Approximately 7–8 hours - Maximum altitude: Kala Patthar, approximately 5,545m - Sleeping altitude: Pheriche, approximately 4,240m - Accommodation: Teahouse - Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 11: Trek from Pheriche to Namche Bazaar – 3,440m
Descend through Pangboche and cross the Imja River. Continue through the forests near Tengboche before following the scenic trail back to Namche Bazaar. This is a relatively long trekking day, but walking becomes easier as you descend to a lower altitude
- Walking distance: Approximately 19–20 km/11.8–12.4 miles - Walking time: Approximately 7–8 hours - Net altitude loss: Approximately 800m - Accommodation: Teahouse - Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 12: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla – 2,860m
Descend steeply from Namche and cross the Hillary Suspension Bridge. Continue through Monjo, Phakding, and several Sherpa villages before making the final climb to Lukla. After reaching Lukla, celebrate the completion of your Everest Base Camp Trek with your guide and porter team.
- Walking distance: Approximately 19 km/11.8 miles - Walking time: Approximately 7–8 hours - Net altitude loss: Approximately 580m - Accommodation: Teahouse - Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 13: Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu
Take an early flight from Lukla to Kathmandu, subject to weather and flight conditions. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free for rest, shopping or exploring Kathmandu. During the main trekking seasons, Lukla flights may operate through Ramechhap Airport. If so, the flight will be followed by an approximately 4–5-hour drive to Kathmandu.
- Flight: Approximately 20–35 minutes - Possible drive: Approximately 4–5 hours if flying through Ramechhap - Accommodation: Hotel - Meals: Breakfast
Day 14: International Departure
Our representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport according to your departure schedule. If you have additional time in Nepal, we can also arrange sightseeing, accommodation or another adventure.
- Driving: Approximately 30–45 minutes - Meals: Breakfast
Details
Accommodation
In Kathmandu, accommodation is provided in a comfortable hotel on a twin-sharing basis.
During the trek, you will stay in traditional mountain teahouses. Rooms are basic but clean and generally have two separate beds. At higher elevations, bathrooms are usually shared, and heating may only be available in the dining room.
Three menu-based meals are included each trekking day. Common choices include dal bhat, soup, noodles, rice, pasta, potatoes, vegetables, eggs and some Western dishes.
More info
Altitude and Safety
The itinerary includes acclimatization days in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche. These days are important and should not be removed to shorten the trek.
Our guide will encourage a slow walking pace, proper hydration and gradual acclimatization. The guide will monitor participants for symptoms of altitude sickness and make safety-based decisions when necessary.
Reaching Everest Base Camp is important, but the health and safety of every traveller will always be our first priority.
Best Time to Trek
The best seasons for the Everest Base Camp Trek are:
- March to May: Warmer weather, blooming rhododendrons and active Everest expedition season. - Late September to November: Generally stable weather, clear mountain views and comfortable trekking conditions. - December to February: Quieter trails and often clear views, but very cold temperatures. - June to August: Possible, but rain, cloud, slippery trails, and flight disruptions are more common.
FAQs
What is the average distance and altitude gain that we will hike each day?
On the Everest Base Camp Trek, you will generally hike 8–15 km (5–9 miles) per day, taking around 5–7 hours.
Most days involve an altitude gain of approximately 400–800 metres (1,300–2,600 feet). Some days are shorter to support safe acclimatization, while the Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar days may be longer and more challenging. The itinerary is carefully paced to help your body adjust gradually to the altitude.
What experience do I need to have? How fit do I need to be? Is this program suitable for children or older people?
No previous trekking or mountaineering experience is required. However, you should have good general fitness and be comfortable walking 5–7 hours daily on steep, uneven trails for several consecutive days.
The trek may suit active older travellers and teenagers, provided they are healthy, well-prepared, and comfortable at high altitude. It is generally not recommended for young children. Anyone with an existing medical condition should consult their doctor before booking.
How can I get to the trailhead/meeting point?
If you are staying in or near Thamel, we will pick you up directly from your hotel. Otherwise, you will need to meet us at the Scenic Nepal Treks office. Complete meeting instructions, pickup time, and flight details will be provided closer to your travel date.
How will accommodation and meals be handled during the trek?
During the trek, accommodation will be provided in local teahouses on a twin-sharing basis. Rooms are simple, clean, and comfortable, although facilities become more basic at higher altitudes.
Meals will be available from the teahouse menu, offering a selection of local and international dishes. Please inform us in advance of any dietary requirements.
Are there any other special requirements such as permits/insurance/vaccines that I need to consider before the tour?
All required trekking permits are arranged by Scenic Nepal Treks. Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking up to at least 5,600 metres, emergency evacuation, medical treatment, and trip cancellation is mandatory.
No special vaccinations are normally required, but routine vaccinations should be up to date. Please consult your doctor or travel clinic before travelling to Nepal. A valid passport and Nepal tourist visa are also required.
What is the best time of the year for this hike?
The best seasons for the Everest Base Camp Trek are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). These months generally offer stable weather, clearer mountain views, and comfortable trekking conditions.
Winter trekking from December to February is also possible, with fewer crowds, but temperatures can be extremely cold. The summer monsoon season from June to August is usually less suitable because of rain, clouds, and possible flight disruptions.
Can I join a group?
Yes, you can join one of our scheduled Everest Base Camp group departures, subject to availability. It is a great way to meet other trekkers and share the experience. Private treks are also available if you prefer your own dates and a more flexible itinerary.
What happens in the event of bad weather?
Bad weather can occasionally delay or cancel flights to and from Lukla. If this happens, we will help arrange the best available alternative, such as the next flight, an adjusted itinerary, or a shared helicopter at an additional cost.
Your guide may also adjust the walking schedule for safety. We strongly recommend keeping at least one or two extra days in Nepal before your international departure.
Do I need climbing experience?
No. This is a trekking journey, not a technical climb. You do not need ropes, crampons or
mountaineering experience.
How far will we walk each day?
Most days cover approximately 8–15 km. The two longest return days can cover around 19–20
km. Walking time is generally 5–7 hours, with some longer days of up to 8 hours.
Can a beginner complete the trek?
A motivated beginner with good physical fitness and proper training can complete it. Previous
multi-day hiking experience is helpful but not compulsory.
Is a porter included?
Yes. One porter is included for every two trekkers. The porter carries the trekking duffel bags, while you carry a small daypack containing water, valuables, snacks, and extra clothing.
What is the porter weight limit?
We recommend keeping the combined porter load within approximately 25–30 kg for two trekkers. Each traveller should pack lightly and follow the domestic flight baggage restrictions.
Can solo travellers book?
Yes. Solo travellers can choose a private trek or ask to join one of our available group departures. A single supplement may apply for private services.
What happens if I cannot continue?
The guide will assess your condition and determine the safest solution. Depending on the situation, this may involve resting, descending with an assistant or arranging evacuation. Additional costs should be covered by your travel insurance.
Is travel insurance mandatory?
Yes. Insurance must cover trekking up to at least 6,000 metres, emergency helicopter evacuation, medical treatment, trip interruption and flight delays.
Are charging, Wi-Fi and showers available?
They are available at many teahouses for an additional fee. Prices normally increase at higher elevations.
Can I charge my phone and camera?
Yes, but charging is not always reliable. Carrying a power bank and spare batteries is strongly recommended.
Is drinking water included?
Drinking water is not included. Trekkers can purchase boiled or bottled water or treat tap water
using purification tablets or a suitable filtration system.
What happens during bad weather?
Your guide may adjust the walking schedule for safety. Lukla flights can also be delayed or cancelled. Any extra expenses caused by weather or flight disruptions are generally paid by the traveller and may be claimed through travel insurance.
Why Book With us?
We are a locally owned trekking company based in Kathmandu. Our experienced team has been organizing Himalayan adventures for international travellers for many years.
We provide:
- Experienced and knowledgeable local guides
- Carefully planned acclimatization
- Small groups and personalized attention
- Honest information and transparent services
- Reliable support before and during the trek
- Flexible private departures
- Responsible treatment of guides and porters
- Direct assistance from a Kathmandu-based team
- Strong attention to safety and traveller wellbeing
Our guides do more than lead the trail. They monitor your health, manage the walking pace, assist with accommodation and meals, and help you understand the culture and everyday life of the Everest region.
About the guide
Scenic Nepal
4.0
(1)
Tour Operator
Founded in 2013, Scenic Nepal Treks is a leading hiking company based in Kathmandu Nepal. Our objective is to ensure your satisfaction and we strive to make your Nepal hiking adventure unique and memorable. Our guides have more than 15 years of experience organizing mountaineering and hiking programs in the Himalayas. Furthermore, we take the utmost care to guarantee your safety and well being at all times.
Join Scenic Nepal Treks on an unforgettable journey to some of the world’s most inspiring mountains!
Languages
French | English
What people are saying about this trip
Alejandra
Join our newsletter!
Stay up-to-date on the best adventures.