Everest Base Camp Trek – 15 Days

Kathmandu – Lukla – Everest Base Camp – Kala Patthar – Lukla – Kathmandu

Everest Base Camp Trek Duration: 15 Days / 14 Nights
Maximum Altitude: 5,545 m / 18,192 ft at Kala Patthar
Everest Base Camp Altitude: 5,364 m / 17,598 ft
Trek Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Best Seasons: Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November)
Accommodation: Hotels in Kathmandu and comfortable teahouses/lodges during the trek
Transportation: Domestic flights and private vehicle for airport transfers and Kathmandu sightseeing

Everest Base Camp Trek Overview

The Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the world's most iconic Himalayan adventures, taking you deep into Nepal's spectacular Khumbu region and to the foot of Mount Everest (8,849 m). This 15-day itinerary combines scenic mountain flights, traditional Sherpa villages, ancient Buddhist monasteries, dramatic Himalayan landscapes, and two important acclimatization days to help your body adjust gradually to increasing altitude.

Your journey begins in Kathmandu before flying toward Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. From Lukla, the trail follows the Dudh Koshi River through beautiful forests and mountain villages before reaching Namche Bazaar, the vibrant heart of the Khumbu region.

As you continue higher, you will visit Tengboche Monastery, cross the alpine landscapes around Dingboche, and walk beneath some of the world's highest mountains, including Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku and Pumori.

The highlight of the trek is the journey from Lobuche to Gorak Shep and Everest Base Camp, followed by an early-morning ascent of Kala Patthar at 5,545 m, one of the finest viewpoints for panoramic views of Mount Everest and the surrounding Himalayan giants.

After reaching these unforgettable heights, you will gradually descend through the Khumbu Valley to Lukla before flying back to Kathmandu.

Everest Base Camp Trek Highlights

• Scenic flight to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region

• Trek through the legendary Khumbu Valley

• Explore vibrant Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa capital

• Visit the historic Tengboche Monastery

• Experience traditional Sherpa villages and Himalayan culture

• Walk beneath Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku and Pumori

• Two important acclimatization days at Namche Bazaar and Dingboche

• Reach Everest Base Camp at 5,364 m

• Experience the spectacular Khumbu Glacier and Khumbu Icefall

• Sunrise from Kala Patthar at 5,545 m

• Enjoy panoramic views of Mount Everest and surrounding peaks

• Scenic return trek through the beautiful Khumbu landscape

• Relax and celebrate with a farewell dinner in Kathmandu

---

Detailed Everest Base Camp Trek Itinerary

DAY 01 – ARRIVAL IN KATHMANDU

Altitude: 1,350 m / 4,428 ft
Activity: Airport Arrival & Hotel Transfer
Driving Time: Approximately 30–45 minutes, depending on traffic

Welcome to Kathmandu, the vibrant capital and cultural heart of Nepal!

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. After checking in and settling down, you will have time to relax and explore the surrounding area if you wish.

In the evening, we will organize a trek briefing where your guide will explain the itinerary, trekking conditions, equipment, safety procedures and other important details for the journey ahead.

Enjoy a welcome dinner featuring delicious traditional Nepalese cuisine at one of Kathmandu's well-regarded Nepalese restaurants.

Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu
Meals: Welcome Dinner

---

DAY 02 – KATHMANDU TO LUKLA FLIGHT AND TREK TO PHAKDING

Altitude: Lukla 2,840 m / 9,318 ft; Phakding 2,652 m / 8,700 ft
Walking Distance: Approximately 8 km
Walking Time: Approximately 3–4 hours
Flight Time: Approximately 30–40 minutes

After breakfast, we begin our journey toward the Everest region with a scenic flight to Lukla.

Important flight note: Domestic flights to Lukla are operated according to the applicable aviation and operational conditions of the day. During certain periods, flights may operate from Ramechhap Airport instead of Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport due to operational requirements. We will take care of the necessary flight arrangements and transfers according to the flight schedule and conditions on the day.

After landing at Lukla, you will meet your trekking guide and porter team and begin your first day on the trail.

The trail passes through Chaurikharka village before descending toward the Dudh Koshi River. Following the river valley, you will walk through beautiful forests and traditional mountain settlements before reaching Phakding.

This relatively short first walking day allows you to settle into the Himalayan environment before continuing toward higher elevations.

Overnight: Teahouse/Lodge in Phakding

---

DAY 03 – PHAKDING TO NAMCHE BAZAAR

Altitude: 3,440 m / 11,286 ft
Walking Distance: Approximately 10–12 km
Walking Time: Approximately 5–6 hours

After breakfast, we continue our trek toward Namche Bazaar, the main trading and cultural center of the Khumbu region.

The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River and crosses several suspension bridges before reaching Monjo, the entrance area of Sagarmatha National Park. After completing the necessary permit formalities, we continue toward Jorsale.

From Jorsale, the trail follows the river before beginning the famous uphill climb toward Namche Bazaar. Along the way, we cross the impressive Hillary Suspension Bridge and gradually gain elevation through pine and rhododendron forests.

After the final ascent, we arrive at Namche Bazaar. On a clear day, you may enjoy your first distant views of Mount Everest and other Himalayan peaks.

Overnight: Teahouse/Lodge in Namche Bazaar

---

DAY 04 – NAMCHE BAZAAR ACCLIMATIZATION DAY

Altitude: 3,440 m / 11,286 ft
Walking Time: Approximately 2–4 hours, depending on the optional hike

Today is an important acclimatization day. Rather than continuing higher, we spend the day around Namche Bazaar to allow your body to adjust to the increasing altitude.

After breakfast, you may take an optional hike toward the Everest View Hotel for spectacular views of Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Nuptse, Thamserku and other surrounding peaks.

You can also explore Namche Bazaar, visit the Sherpa Culture Museum, or simply relax and enjoy the mountain atmosphere.

The acclimatization principle is simple: climb higher during the day and return to sleep at a lower elevation, helping your body gradually adapt to the altitude.

Overnight: Teahouse/Lodge in Namche Bazaar

---

DAY 05 – NAMCHE BAZAAR TO TENGBOCHE

Altitude: 3,870 m / 12,697 ft
Walking Distance: Approximately 10 km
Walking Time: Approximately 5–6 hours

Today, the trail leaves Namche Bazaar and enters one of the most scenic sections of the Everest Base Camp Trek.

The trail initially follows a relatively comfortable route along the hillside, offering magnificent views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku and Kwangde.

We gradually descend toward the Dudh Koshi River before crossing it and beginning the climb through beautiful rhododendron, pine and fir forests.

The final ascent brings us to Tengboche, one of the most beautiful villages in the Everest region.

Tengboche is famous for its historic Buddhist monastery and spectacular views of Ama Dablam. We will have an opportunity to visit Tengboche Monastery and experience the peaceful spiritual atmosphere of this important Buddhist center.

Overnight: Teahouse/Lodge in Tengboche

---

DAY 06 – TENGBOCHE TO DINGBOCHE

Altitude: 4,400 m / 14,436 ft
Walking Distance: Approximately 11 km
Walking Time: Approximately 5–6 hours

After breakfast, we descend through beautiful rhododendron forests toward Deboche before crossing the Imja Khola.

The trail continues toward Pangboche, one of the largest and oldest permanent Sherpa settlements in the Khumbu region. From here, we enter increasingly open and alpine landscapes as the vegetation becomes thinner with rising altitude.

After lunch, the trail gradually climbs through the Imja Valley toward Dingboche.

Surrounded by dramatic Himalayan peaks, Dingboche is an important stop on the Everest Base Camp route and provides the perfect location for another acclimatization day.

Overnight: Teahouse/Lodge in Dingboche

---

DAY 07 – DINGBOCHE ACCLIMATIZATION DAY

Altitude: 4,400 m / 14,436 ft
Walking Time: Approximately 3–5 hours for the optional hike

Today is another important acclimatization day.

You can spend a relaxed morning in Dingboche or take an optional hike into the surrounding hills for excellent views of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Island Peak and the surrounding Himalayan valleys.

Depending on the group's condition, your guide may recommend a suitable acclimatization walk to a nearby viewpoint.

The remainder of the day is dedicated to rest, hydration and preparation for the higher-altitude section of the trek.

Overnight: Teahouse/Lodge in Dingboche

---

DAY 08 – DINGBOCHE TO LOBUCHE

Altitude: Lobuche 4,910 m / 16,109 ft
Walking Distance: Approximately 11–12 km
Walking Time: Approximately 6–7 hours

Today, we continue deeper into the high Himalayas.

The trail gradually climbs out of Dingboche toward Dukla. From here, we make a steeper ascent toward the ridge where memorials and stone monuments honor climbers and trekkers who lost their lives in the Everest region.

The surrounding landscape becomes increasingly rugged and dramatic as we continue toward Lobuche.

The trail eventually reaches the small settlement of Lobuche, situated beneath the spectacular peaks of Lobuche, Pumori and Nuptse.

At this altitude, the temperature can become very cold, especially during the evening and early morning, so a warm night's rest is important before tomorrow's major trekking day.

Overnight: Teahouse/Lodge in Lobuche

---

DAY 09 – LOBUCHE TO GORAK SHEP AND EVEREST BASE CAMP, RETURN TO GORAK SHEP

Altitude: Gorak Shep 5,164 m / 16,942 ft; Everest Base Camp 5,364 m / 17,598 ft
Walking Distance: Approximately 15 km round trip
Walking Time: Approximately 7–9 hours

Today is one of the most important and memorable days of the entire trek.

After breakfast, we leave Lobuche and follow the trail toward Gorak Shep. The landscape becomes increasingly rugged as we enter the high-altitude terrain surrounding the Khumbu Glacier.

After a short break and lunch in Gorak Shep, we continue toward Everest Base Camp.

The trail crosses rocky moraine terrain and follows the edge of the Khumbu Glacier. Eventually, we reach Everest Base Camp at 5,364 m, one of the world's most famous mountaineering destinations.

During the main climbing season, the area may be filled with expedition activity and colorful tents.

After spending time at Base Camp and enjoying the extraordinary Himalayan surroundings, we retrace our steps back to Gorak Shep for an overnight stay.

Overnight: Teahouse/Lodge in Gorak Shep

---

DAY 10 – GORAK SHEP TO KALA PATTHAR AND DESCEND TO PHERICHE

Altitude: Kala Patthar 5,545 m / 18,192 ft; Pheriche 4,371 m / 14,340 ft
Walking Distance: Approximately 12–13 km
Walking Time: Approximately 6–7 hours

Today begins early with an ascent to Kala Patthar, the highest point of our trekking itinerary.

Kala Patthar is famous for its exceptional panoramic views of Mount Everest, Nuptse, Pumori, Lhotse and surrounding Himalayan peaks.

If weather conditions are favorable, we will reach the viewpoint around sunrise, when the first light touches the world's highest mountains.

After enjoying the spectacular scenery and taking photographs, we descend to Gorak Shep for breakfast.

We then continue downhill toward Pheriche. As we lose altitude, the air becomes noticeably more comfortable and the trail gradually becomes easier.

Overnight: Teahouse/Lodge in Pheriche

---

DAY 11 – PHERICHE TO NAMCHE BAZAAR

Altitude: Namche Bazaar 3,440 m / 11,286 ft
Walking Distance: Approximately 13–15 km
Walking Time: Approximately 6–7 hours

After breakfast, we begin our descent through the Khumbu Valley.

We retrace the trail toward Pangboche and Tengboche, enjoying familiar mountain scenery from a different perspective.

Although much of the route is downhill, there are still several uphill sections along the trail. We continue through forests and Sherpa settlements before reaching the Dudh Koshi Valley.

Eventually, we arrive back in Namche Bazaar, where we can enjoy a comfortable evening after several demanding days at high altitude.

Overnight: Teahouse/Lodge in Namche Bazaar

---

DAY 12 – NAMCHE BAZAAR TO PHAKDING AND LUKLA

Altitude: Lukla 2,840 m / 9,318 ft
Walking Distance: Approximately 13–14 km
Walking Time: Approximately 5–7 hours

After breakfast, we begin our final day of trekking.

The trail descends through the familiar forests and villages of the Khumbu region, crossing suspension bridges and following the Dudh Koshi River.

We pass through Jorsale, Monjo and Phakding before continuing toward Lukla.

Upon reaching Lukla, you will have time to relax and celebrate the completion of your Everest Base Camp adventure with your trekking team.

In the evening, enjoy a farewell celebration with your guide and porter team, reflecting on the incredible journey through the Himalayas.

Overnight: Teahouse/Lodge in Lukla

---

DAY 13 – LUKLA TO KATHMANDU FLIGHT

Altitude: Kathmandu 1,350 m / 4,428 ft
Flight Time: Approximately 30–40 minutes, depending on flight conditions

After breakfast, we prepare for our return flight from Lukla to Kathmandu.

As with the outbound journey, domestic flight operations are subject to weather, airport operations, air traffic and other practical conditions. Depending on the applicable flight operation on the day, flights may be operated via Ramechhap Airport rather than directly from Kathmandu.

We will take care of the necessary flight arrangements and ground transportation according to the applicable schedule and operational conditions.

After arriving in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel.

The remainder of the day is free for relaxation, personal activities or exploring Thamel, one of Kathmandu's most popular tourist areas.

In the evening, we will celebrate the successful completion of your Everest Base Camp Trek with a farewell dinner at a selected Nepalese restaurant.

Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu
Meals: Farewell Dinner

---

DAY 14 – KATHMANDU CITY TOUR AND FAREWELL DINNER

Altitude: 1,350 m / 4,428 ft
Tour Duration: Approximately 3 hours
Transportation: Private vehicle

After breakfast, enjoy a private guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu.

The exact sightseeing locations can be arranged according to your interests and available time. You may visit important cultural and heritage sites such as Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, Kathmandu Durbar Square or other nearby attractions.

After approximately three hours of sightseeing, you will return to your hotel around late morning.

The rest of the day is free for shopping, relaxing or exploring Kathmandu independently.

In the evening, enjoy a special dinner at one of Kathmandu's excellent Nepalese restaurants as we bring your Nepal adventure to a memorable conclusion.

Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

---

DAY 15 – DEPARTURE FROM KATHMANDU

Altitude: 1,350 m / 4,428 ft
Driving Time: Approximately 30–45 minutes, depending on traffic

Your Everest Base Camp adventure comes to an end today.

After breakfast, you will have some free time for final shopping or relaxation, depending on your flight schedule.

Our representative will arrange your transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport in good time for your international departure.

As you leave Nepal, we hope you take home unforgettable memories of the Himalayas, the Sherpa people, the mountain villages and the incredible journey to Everest Base Camp.

Safe travels and farewell from Nepal!

---

Important Trekking & Transportation Note

The distances, driving hours, flight times and walking durations mentioned in this itinerary are approximate. Actual times and distances may vary depending on weather conditions, air traffic, flight operations, road and trail conditions, route variations, altitude, group walking pace, rest stops and other practical circumstances.

Flights to and from Lukla are operated according to the applicable aviation schedule and operational conditions on the day. Depending on the season and airport operations, flights may operate from Ramechhap Airport instead of Kathmandu. If this applies to your travel dates, we will arrange the necessary transportation between Kathmandu and Ramechhap and coordinate the flight arrangements accordingly.

Your safety and comfort are our priority, and our experienced trekking team will make the necessary adjustments to the itinerary when required by weather, trail conditions, altitude or other unforeseen circumstances.