How to plan your Everest Base Camp Drive in Kathmandu

Nestled in the midst of the surreal Himalayan range, the Everest region is a treat for every trek lover. The crisp mountain air, the snow-capped peaks, and the scenic trails attract thousands of tourists every year. The Everest Base Camp trek is one of the most sought-after treks in the region, offering an unforgettable journey to the base camp of Mt. Everest, the highest mountain in the world. In this article, we’ll guide you through planning an Everest Base Camp Drive in Kathmandu, covering everything from the essential preparations to the nitty-gritty of the trek.

Overview of the Everest Base Camp Drive

This 13-day group tour to Everest Base Camp takes you through the Khumbu region of Nepal, where you’ll experience the beauty of the Himalayas up close. The tour will take care of all your permits, transport, tea house accommodation, meals, and guide, allowing you to make the most of your time in the region. You’ll also get a chance to immerse yourself in the Buddhist culture and spend time with the Sherpa community in Namche Bazaar.

Itinerary

Here’s a day-by-day breakdown of the Everest Base Camp Drive:

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

Upon arrival at the Kathmandu airport, you’ll be picked up and transferred to your hotel. You’ll have the rest of the day to relax and explore the city.

Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trek Preparation

On the second day, you’ll embark on a sightseeing tour of Kathmandu, visiting iconic sites such as Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, and Boudhanath. You’ll also meet your trek guide and have a briefing on the trek.

Day 3: Flight to Lukla and Trek to Phakding

On day three, you’ll take a scenic flight to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. From there, you’ll trek to Phakding, a small village that lies on the Dudh Koshi River.

Day 4: Trek to Namche Bazaar

On day four, you’ll continue your trek to Namche Bazaar, the largest village in the Khumbu region. The trail will take you through the beautiful villages of Jorsalle and Monjo before reaching Namche Bazaar.

Day 5: Rest Day in Namche Bazaar

On day five, you’ll take a rest day in Namche Bazaar to acclimatize to the high altitude. You can explore the village, interact with the Sherpa community, and savor the stunning views of the Himalayas.

Day 6: Trek to Tengboche

On day six, you’ll trek towards Tengboche, a village famous for its stunning views of Ama Dablam and Mt. Everest. You’ll also visit the Tengboche Monastery and immerse yourself in the Buddhist culture of the region.

Day 7: Trek to Dingboche

On day seven, you’ll continue your trek to Dingboche, passing through rhododendron and pine forests, and crossing the Imja Khola River. Dingboche offers breathtaking views of Lhotse, Island Peak, and Makalu.

Day 8: Rest Day in Dingboche

On day eight, you’ll take another rest day in Dingboche to acclimatize to the altitude. You can hike up to Nagarjun Hill, explore the village, and soak in the mesmerizing views of the Himalayas.

Day 9: Trek to Lobuche

On day nine, you’ll trek towards Lobuche, a small settlement that lies in the shadow of Mt. Everest. The trail will take you through the Khumbu Glacier and offer stunning views of the surrounding peaks.

Day 10: Trek to Gorak Shep and Everest Base Camp

On day ten, you’ll trek to Gorak Shep, the last settlement before the Everest Base Camp. After a short break, you’ll continue your trek to the base camp, where you’ll witness the majestic views of Khumbu Icefall and surrounding peaks at their best.

Day 11: Hike to Kala Patthar and Trek to Pheriche

On day eleven, you’ll hike to Kala Patthar, a famous viewpoint that offers stunning views of the Himalayas, including the sunrise over Mt. Everest. After the hike, you’ll trek back to Pheriche.

Day 12: Trek to Namche Bazaar

On day twelve, you’ll retrace your steps back to Namche Bazaar, passing through the beautiful villages of Tengboche and Monjo.

Day 13: Trek to Lukla

On the last day of the trek, you’ll trek back to Lukla, where you’ll catch a flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you’ll be transferred to your hotel.

Inclusions

• Experienced first-aid trained trekking guide and porter (1 for every two clients)
• Twin-sharing guesthouse accommodation with attached toilets in Lukla Phakding & Namche
• Drive from Ktm to Kharikhola and back in a 4WD including pick-up and drop-off at the hotel.
• Travel insurance which covers emergency evacuation

Booking Your Everest Base Camp Drive

If you’re interested in booking an Everest Base Camp Drive, you can do so easily through Viator. The tour takes care of all the essentials, allowing you to focus on enjoying the trek and the beauty of the Himalayas. Book the tour here [link to https://www.viator.com/tours/Kathmandu/Everest-Base-Camp-Trek-13-Days/d5109-33122P6?pid=P00070472&mcid=42383] and gear up for an unforgettable journey to the base camp of the tallest mountain in the world.

Conclusion

Planning an Everest Base Camp Drive might seem daunting, but with the right preparations and guidance, it can be an experience of a lifetime. We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive guide to planning your Everest Base Camp Drive in Kathmandu. Remember to follow the responsible-tourism practices, respect the local culture and environment, and savor the stunning beauty of the Himalayas.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kathmandu

Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is one of the most fascinating cities in the world. Packed with history, culture, and amazing sights, it’s no surprise that many people are planning on visiting this vibrant city.

In this post, we’ll address the most common questions people ask about Kathmandu, so you can be fully prepared for your trip.

1. When is the best time to visit Kathmandu?

Kathmandu has two primary seasons – the dry season (October to May) and the monsoon season (June to September). The dry season is considered the best time to visit because the weather is mild, clear, and suitable for outdoor activities.

2. What are the top attractions in Kathmandu?

There are so many incredible things to see in Kathmandu that it’s hard to narrow down the top attractions. However, some of the must-see places include:

• Swayambhunath Stupa (also known as the Monkey Temple)
• Boudhanath Stupa
• Pashupatinath Temple
• Durbar Squares (Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur)
• Narayanhiti Palace Museum

3. What is the currency in Nepal?

The currency in Nepal is the Nepalese rupee (NPR). You can exchange your currency at banks, exchange shops, or use ATM machines, which are available throughout the Kathmandu Valley and major tourist areas.

4. What language is spoken in Kathmandu?

Nepali is the official language of Kathmandu and the rest of Nepal, but you’ll find that many people speak English as well, especially in tourist areas.

5. What should I wear when visiting Kathmandu?

It’s important to dress conservatively when visiting temples and other religious sites in Kathmandu. This means covering your knees and shoulders. However, you can wear anything you want in other areas of the city.

6. Is it safe to visit Kathmandu?

Kathmandu is generally a safe city for tourists, but it’s still important to take precautions. Be mindful of pickpockets and scams, especially in crowded tourist areas. It’s also recommended to take a licensed taxi or a private car, especially at night.

7. What type of food can I expect in Kathmandu?

Kathmandu is known for its delicious and diverse cuisine. You’ll find a variety of traditional Nepalese dishes as well as international cuisine. Be sure to try momos (dumplings), dal bhat (lentil soup and rice), and Newari dishes (a traditional cuisine of Kathmandu Valley).

8. What is the nightlife like in Kathmandu?

Kathmandu has a lively nightlife scene, with a range of options from rooftop bars to live music venues. Thamel is the main area for nightlife, but there are also options in other parts of the city.

9. What is the transportation like in Kathmandu?

Transportation in Kathmandu can be a challenge due to heavy traffic and narrow streets. Taxis, buses, and motorbikes are available, but it’s recommended to use a licensed taxi or arrange transportation through your hotel or tour company.

10. Is it necessary to have a visa to visit Kathmandu?

Yes, it’s necessary to have a visa to enter Nepal. You can obtain a tourist visa upon arrival at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport or at other border crossings. Alternatively, you can apply for a visa online before your trip. Visa fees vary depending on the length of stay.

Conclusion

Kathmandu is an amazing city with so much to offer. We hope we’ve answered some of your questions and helped you plan your trip to this fascinating destination. Remember to do your research, take precautions, and enjoy all that Kathmandu has to offer!