18 Days Everest Base Camp Trek Highlights
- Witness the up-close and panoramic views of the world’s highest mountains like Mount Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Nuptse.
- Walk through the remote valleys and picturesque villages including the charming Namche Bazaar.
- Visit the ancient and spiritually significant Tengboche Monastery.
- Trek through the UNESCO-designated Sagarmatha National Park while witnessing the diverse Himalayan flora and fauna.
- Immerse yourself in the culture, tradition, and hospitality of the Sherpa community.
The 18 Days Everest Base Camp trekking route is one of the most popular trekking itineraries in the Everest Region. We can get an up-close view of the world’s tallest mountain. It offers adventurers a chance to explore the majestic Mt. Everest and its breathtaking surroundings.
One of the thrilling aspects of this trek is experiencing a flight to Tenzing-Hillary Airport in Lukla. Situated at an altitude of 2,860 meters (9,383 feet), it is one of the world’s highest-altitude airports. It is one of the world’s most adventurous airports. The airport was built under the supervision of Tenzing Hillary. Jiri served as the starting point for the Everest Base Camp trek before the airport was constructed.
The Everest Base Camp Trek provides a unique experience, stunning scenery, and one of the best mountainous views. The route will take us through the picturesque town of the Everest region, Namche Bazar. Similarly, we will pass by Tengboche monastery, Sagarmatha National Park, glaciers, and many remote valleys.
The Everest Base Camp Trek is challenging but a rewarding trekking experience. Trekkers get to explore the natural beauty of the Khumbu region and immerse themselves in the culture, traditions, and local customs of the Sherpa community.
Everest Base Camp Trek Acclimatization Day
The Everest Base Camp Trek’s highest point is at Kalapather. It is situated at an elevation of 5,644 meters (18,520 feet). The high elevation results in trekkers getting altitude sickness or acute mountain sickness. It is caused by lower oxygen levels in the bloodstream. As you move to a higher elevation, the oxygen level drops resulting in altitude sickness.
The best way to avoid altitude sickness is to take rest days for acclimatization during the trek. Acclimatization helps your body to adjust to the higher elevation, temperature, and surroundings. In other words, it helps in the physiological adaptation which reduces the chance of altitude sickness.
During our 18 Days Everest Base Camp Trek, we take two days as rest days for acclimatization. These two days are:
Day 04: Rest day in Namche Bazaar
Namche Bazar is situated at an elevation of 3,440 meters (11,286 feet). We take a rest day on day 4 at the Namche Bazaar. The reason for this is that the village sits at a significantly higher elevation than the starting trek point. Thus, Namche Bazaar serves as one of the crucial stops for acclimatization for the Everest Base Camp Trek.
On this rest day, we will stay active as recommended by the health experts. We will hike and explore a hundred vertical feet to acclimatize. We will take a tour at the Tourist Visitor Center near the Sagarmatha National Park headquarters. There we will learn about Sherpa culture and learn about the region’s flora and fauna.
Then, we will also take a side trip to Khumjung. We will climb to the famous airstrip at Syangboche, trek to the sacred peak Khumbila, and visit Hillary School. Similarly, we will also spend some time in Khumjung.
Day 07: Rest and hiking to Chukung Ri(5546 m /18195 ft) and back to Dingboche
Our next rest day is on day 7 at Dingboche. It is situated at an elevation of 4,360 meters (14,300 feet). Dingboche is also an important stop for acclimatization.
On this day, we will hike for about 5.3 km (3.1 miles) to Chukung Ri. Situated at an elevation of 5,546 meters (18,195 feet), Chukung Ri is a rocky peak. The elevation of the peak is higher than the Everest Base Camp. You can witness the breathtaking mountain views of Imja Tse, Ama Damblam, Makalu, and Nuptse.
You cannot view Mount Everest from Chukung Ri. The hike takes around 2 to 3 hours from Dingboche to Chukung Ri. After enjoying the view, we will head back to Dingboche.
Permits for Everest Base Camp Trekking
For the Everest Base Camp Trekking, you will require three permits. These include:
TIMS
TIMS refers to the Trekkers’ Information Management System. It is required by all trekkers in Nepal including Everest Base Camp Trek. The permit maintains the record of the individuals who are trekking in different regions of Nepal. It also ensures the safety and security of the trekkers. Trekkers can get TIMS from Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Sagarmatha National Park Entry
The Everest Base Camp Trek route goes through the Sagarmatha National Park. Hence, it is required for the trekkers to get a national park entry permit. The permit can be obtained in Kathmandu or at the Sagarmatha National Park entrance gate.
Local Permit
The Everest Base Camp lies in the Khumbu region. Hence, trekkers are required to get the Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit. This permit can be obtained in Lukla and from the Sagarmatha National Park Counter if you are arriving from Jiri or Salleri.
When you book the 18 Days Everest Base Camp Trek with Himalayan Leaders, the permits are included with the package.
How to prevent altitude sickness during the EBC trek?
It is common for trekkers to suffer from altitude sickness during the Everest Base Camp Trek. Since the base camp lies at a high elevation, the low oxygen level leads to altitude sickness. So how can you prevent this?
Here are a few ways you can prevent altitude sickness during the Everest Base Camp Trek:
- Ascend gradually to allow your body to adjust to the higher altitude, temperature, and surroundings.
- Take rest days to acclimatize as you move to higher elevations but stay active.
- It is important to stay hydrated. But avoid excessive intake of caffeine and alcohol. Also, avoid excessive smoking while on trek.
- Carry medications like acetazolamide that can help prevent altitude sickness. However, make sure you consult with health professionals about its use.
- Be attentive to your body and the symptoms. If you notice symptoms take immediate action like taking medication.
- If the symptoms continue to persist, climb down to the lower elevation.
Can a beginner trek Everest Base Camp?
The first preparation is physical fitness and training. While on trek, you have to walk several hours on varied terrain daily. Thus, it is important to undertake exercise, running, and hiking activities. It is also important to consult with healthcare professionals before trekking if you have any pre-existing health conditions.
It is highly advised for beginners to gradually ascend to the higher elevations. It helps to acclimatize the body which lowers the risk of altitude sickness. It is vital to take precautions. Therefore, it is important to do your research and be prepared for the different challenges one might face during the Everest Base Camp Trek.
Physical and mental preparation plays a significant role in Everest Base Camp Trek. The physically demanding route can also be mentally strenuous. Thus, mental preparation is also important. Proper equipment and gear are also crucial for beginners. So, it is highly recommended that they invest in quality gear.
Beginners should do their research and also consult with trekking agencies before embarking on the journey. They can get valuable information and guidance that can help beginners take up the Everest Base Camp Trek challenge.
Trekking to Everest Base Camp
The Everest Base Camp trek is popular worldwide as one of the most famous and challenging treks. Each year, countless trekkers embark on this journey to reach the Everest Base Camp, located at an altitude of 5,380 m (17650 feet). Along the way, trekkers pass through picturesque Sherpa villages, immersing themselves in the local culture and enjoying the warm hospitality of the Sherpa people.
Breathtaking Mountain Views
One of the major highlights of this trek is the opportunity to witness panoramic views of majestic mountains, including the world’s highest peak, Mt. Everest, standing tall at 8,848 meters (29028 feet). However, it’s important to note that the view of Mt. Everest is not visible from the base camp itself. To catch a glimpse of the iconic summit, trekkers must ascend to Kala Patthar, situated at an altitude of 5,644 meters (18520 feet). From there, they can marvel at the awe-inspiring sight of Mt. Everest and the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
Rich Biodiversity
Beyond the mountains, the Everest Base Camp region is renowned for its rich biodiversity. Trekkers have the opportunity to explore the Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This national park is home to a wide range of fascinating wildlife, including elusive snow leopards, Himalayan Thars, musk deer, Himalayan Black Bears, and various species of birds. The chance to encounter these unique animals in their natural habitat adds to the excitement and wonder of the trek, making it a truly unforgettable experience for wildlife enthusiasts.
Overcoming Challenges
Trekking to Everest Base Camp comes with its fair share of challenges. The high altitude and rugged terrain require physical fitness and proper acclimatization. However, the infrastructure and trekking facilities in the region have been extensively developed to ensure the comfort and safety of trekkers. Along the trekking route, you will find plenty of teahouses and lodges. These provide accommodation, warm meals, and a place to rest and rejuvenate. These establishments also offer opportunities to meet and connect with fellow trekkers from around the world, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared adventure.
Immersion in Sherpa Culture
One of the unique aspects of the Everest Base Camp trek is the chance to immerse oneself in the rich Sherpa culture. The Sherpa people, known for their mountaineering skills and warm hospitality, inhabit the villages along the trekking route. Interacting with the Sherpa community offers a glimpse into their traditional way of life, customs, and beliefs. Trekkers can visit monasteries, witness traditional ceremonies, and gain a deeper understanding of the Sherpa heritage. This cultural exchange adds a profound dimension to the trekking experience, creating lasting memories and fostering a greater appreciation for the Himalayan region.
In conclusion, the Everest Base Camp Trek is an extraordinary adventure that combines breathtaking natural beauty, awe-inspiring mountains, and unique wildlife encounters. Although it presents challenges, the trekking infrastructure, and facilities have been developed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
The journey allows trekkers to not only witness the splendor of Mt. Everest and the surrounding peaks but also to immerse themselves in the vibrant Sherpa culture. The Everest Base Camp trek offers an unforgettable opportunity to explore the Himalayan region, providing a perfect blend of adventure, nature, and cultural experiences.
Route Highlight For 18 Days Everest Base Camp Trek
- Area: Everest Region,
- Difficulty: B (Moderate).
- Altitude: 5364m,
- Duration: 18 days,
- Starting point: Lukla.
- Ending point: Lukla
- Best season: Sep-Dec, Feb – May,
- Maximum group size: 30 pax
- Minimum pax/Person: 1 pax.
- Culture: Renowned Sherpa Culture.
- Mode of trekking: Popular in tea houses but can be operated in both tea houses and camping as per client’s interest.
- Himalayan sights: The Himalayan range includes the world’s highest Mt. Everest (8850m).