How to Plan Your Everest Base Camp Trek from Kathmandu

If you are planning to embark on a spectacular 12-day hiking adventure through the Himalayas, then the Everest Base Camp Trek is an ideal choice. This trek offers you the chance to witness the majestic beauty of Khumbetse Nuptse Lingtren Lhotse and many more mountain peaks, visit the famous Everest Base Camp, and be escorted by experienced and knowledgeable guides. Here’s how to plan your 12-day Everest Base Camp Trek from Kathmandu.

Day 1: Kathmandu to Lukla

Start with a pick-up from your hotel and travel to Tribhuvan International Airport to take an early morning flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. Upon arrival at Lukla, you will be transferred to the starting point and begin the trek to Phakding. Stay overnight at a tea house lodge.

Day 2: Phakding to Namche Bazar

Begin the day’s trek from Phakding, and make your way to Namche Bazar located at an altitude of 3440 meters. The trek to Namche Bazar is a challenging one, but the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains will make it all worthwhile. Stay overnight in the town of Namche Bazar.

Day 3: Rest day in Namche Bazar

Taking a rest day to acclimatize to the altitude in Namche Bazar is essential for a successful trek. Enjoy the town’s amenities and relax, taking in the stunning mountain scenery. Enjoy a second overnight stay in the town.

Day 4: Namche Bazar to Tyangboche

Depart from Namche Bazar and hike to Tyangboche, located at 3867 meters. The trek from Namche Bazar to Tyangboche takes you through beautiful rhododendron forest. Stay in Tyangboche overnight.

Day 5: Tyangboche to Dingboche

On day 5, leave Tyangboche, cross a suspension bridge at Imja Khola, and head to Dingboche. Dingboche is located at an altitude of 4410 meters, and a great place for a night’s rest.

Day 6: Rest day in Dingboche

Take another rest day in Dingboche to further adjust to the altitude. Enjoy the views of Ama Dablam and Lhotse peaks, along with the surrounding mountains.

Day 7: Dingboche to Lobuche

Leave the village of Dingboche behind and ascend to Thukla Pass. After some time trekking uphill, you will reach Lobuche at an altitude of 4910 meters. Stay overnight in the town.

Day 8: Lobuche to Gorak Shep to Everest Base Camp and back to Gorak Shep

Gear up for a challenging but rewarding day’s trek. The route will take you from Lobuche to Gorak Shep and then to Everest Base Camp. After reaching Everest Base Camp, return to Gorak Shep to stay for the night.

Day 9: Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar to Pheriche

The day’s trek takes you from Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar. Kala Patthar is the highest point of the trek, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. After taking in the views, descend to Pheriche for the night’s stay.

Day 10: Pheriche to Namche Bazar

Leave Pheriche behind and begin the descent to Namche Bazar. Enjoy the mountain scenery on the way back down. Stay overnight in the town.

Day 11: Namche Bazar to Lukla

Begin the trek from Namche Bazar to Lukla, enjoying the final views of the mountains. Stay overnight in Lukla, ready to take a morning flight back to Kathmandu.

Day 12: Lukla to Kathmandu

The last day of your trek takes you back to Kathmandu. Take a flight from Lukla to Tribhuvan International Airport and travel back to your hotel to conclude the trek.

Booking the Tour

Ready to book your Everest Base Camp Trek? Follow this link to make a booking on the tour provider’s website.

Final Thoughts

By following these guidelines, you can plan an incredible 12-day Everest Base Camp Trek from Kathmandu. From stunning mountain views to experiencing the rich cultural heritage of the region, there is something for everyone. Don’t forget to book your tour and pack appropriately for the trek!

An Insider’s Guide to Kathmandu

Welcome to Kathmandu, Nepal’s vibrant capital city. The city is a hub for adventure seekers, history buffs, and cultural enthusiasts. While popular tourist spots like Durbar Square, Thamel, and Swayambhunath Stupa are undoubtedly worth visiting, there is so much more to discover in this charming city. As a local, I am excited to share some hidden gems, cultural experiences, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that will make your visit unforgettable.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems

Though there are many popular tourist sites in Kathmandu, don’t forget to look beyond the usual spots. One hidden gem worth visiting is the Patan Museum, a hidden oasis in the heart of the city. Once a palace complex, this museum is dedicated to preserving the art and cultural heritage of the Kathmandu Valley. Another hidden gem is Boudha Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This stunning stupa is one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world and offers visitors a peaceful and serene experience.

Dining Spots: Local Cuisine

Kathmandu’s culinary scene is a blend of Nepali, Tibetan, and Indian influences. Indulge in traditional Nepali cuisine at Jatra Restaurant, a cozy eatery that serves authentic dishes like momos, thakali, and dal bhat. Another must-visit spot is Gilingche, one of the oldest restaurants in the city. This restaurant is famed for its delicious Tibetan food, particularly the momos, which are served with a spicy tomato-cilantro chutney.

Cultural Experiences: Traditions and Festivals

Kathmandu is a city rich in traditions and festivals, offering visitors an opportunity to experience the vibrant culture of Nepal. The Dashain festival is one such event, celebrated every autumn for fifteen days. During this time, family members reunite, and the city comes alive with feasting, dancing, and singing. Another cultural experience worth taking part in is the Kumari Jatra, a yearly festival that honors the living goddess, Kumari. During this festival, a young girl, believed to be the living embodiment of the goddess, is paraded across the city.

Local History: Captivating Stories

Kathmandu is home to several impressive historical sites, including the Pashupatinath Temple, which is one of the most revered Hindu temples globally. This site is believed to be more than 2,000 years old and holds religious significance. Another captivating historical site is Kirtipur, a town located on a hill to the southwest of Kathmandu. Once a thriving city, Kirtipur has been witness to some of Nepal’s most significant historical events.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable Experiences

For those looking for something unique and off-the-beaten-path, consider a visit to Nagarkot. This charming hill station, located an hour’s drive from Kathmandu, offers stunning views of the Himalayan range, including Mount Everest. Another unforgettable experience is a visit to the Kopan Monastery, located on a hill overlooking the Kathmandu Valley. The monastery offers meditation classes, sustainable living workshops, and retreats for visitors seeking spiritual growth.

In conclusion, Kathmandu offers an unforgettable experience that goes beyond the usual tourist stops. From hidden gems to cultural experiences and off-the-beaten-path suggestions, the city has something for everyone. We hope that this insider’s guide will inspire you to explore the city’s rich culture and history and create memories that will last a lifetime.