Everest Base Camp is the gateway for the summit of Mount Everest. Mount Everest is the highest peak in the world with an altitude of 8,848 meters. The base camp is located at an altitude of 5,364 meters (17,598 ft) above sea level. It lies on the lap of the Khumbu Glacier and Mount Everest. It is the highest point a trekker can reach.
The journey to the Everest base camp trek is full with spectacular mountain views. The EBC trek usually begins from Lukla. One can arrive from Kathmandu to Lukla on a 45-minute exhilarating flight, landing at one of the scariest airports in the world, Tenzing-Hillary Airport Lukla is located at an altitude of 2,860 meters (9,383 feet).
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Everest base camp trek
The Everest base camp is a hub of activities for climbers preparing to summit Mt. Everest. EBC is also an attraction to enjoy the breathtaking scenery of beautiful snow-capped mountains, the Khumbu Icefall, and other amazing glaciers.
There are two primary base camps located at the foot of Mount Everest. The North Base Camp is for climbers from Tibet, and the South Base Camp from Nepal. The Everest Base Camp is located within the Sagarmatha National Park, one of the World Heritage Sites.
Trekkers follow a well-marked trail that winds its way through small villages and dense forest. Trekkers can enjoy the rich culture, tradition and lifestyle of local people.
Did you know: During the first expedition of Mount Everest, Sir. Edmund Hilary used the route from Jiri to Namche Bazaar.
During the trek to Everest base camp, we can tour several Buddhist monasteries such as Tengboche Monastery. It is the oldest monastery in the Khumbu region. We can experience the lifestyle of the Sherpas in high altitude areas along with their culture and traditions. We can get more into the life of brilliant mountain climbers.
Trek to Everest base camp requires a long and strenuous trek across rugged terrain of the Himalayas. So, trekking to the base camp is a physically demanding one. Trekkers should get in good physical shape before attempting it. For EBC trek, it is essential to have strong physical as well as mental vigor.
Elevation gain during Everest base camp Trek
The elevation gradually increases from 1,350m/4,429ft in Kathmandu to the maximum of 5,364m/17,599ft in Everest base camp. If you visit Kala Patthar, the altitude can reach up to 5,545m/18,193ft. Kala Patthar is a difficult little hike, but gives the best view of Mount Everest.
Everest Base Camp Trek Itinerary with Altitude
| Days/Activities | Maximum Altitude |
| Day 01 Arrival in Kathmandu | 1,350m/4,429ft |
| Day 02 Kathmandu: Sightseeing and trek Preparation | 1,350m/4,429ft |
| Day 03 Fly to Lukla, trek to Phakding | 2,800m/9,187ft |
| Day 04 Phakding to Namche Bazaar | 3,438m/11,280ft |
| Day 05 Acclimatization Day – Namche Bazaar | 3,438m/11,280ft |
| Day 06 Namche Bazaar to Tengboche | 3,870m/12,697ft |
| Day 07 Tengboche to Dingboche | 4,360m/14,305ft |
| Day 08 Dingboche: Acclimatization | 4,360m/14,305ft |
| Day 09 Dingboche to Duglha | 4,600m/15,093ft |
| Day 10 Duglha to Lobuche | 4,940m/16,208ft |
| Day 11 Lobuche to Gorak Shep, visit Everest Base Camp | 5,364m/17,599ft |
| Day 12 Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar to Pheriche | 5,545m/18,193ft |
| Day 13 Pheriche to Namche Bazaar | 3,438m/11,280ft |
| Day 14 Namche Bazaar to Lukla | 2,800m/9,187ft |
| Day 15 Fly to Kathmandu | 1,350m/4,429ft |
| Day 16 Final departure | – |
Altitude Sickness during Everest Base Camp Trek
Altitude sickness is a common problem during the Everest base camp trek. Trekkers can experience symptoms of altitude sickness after 3,500m above sea level. As trekkers make their way to the base camp, it is essential for them to acclimatize gradually on high altitude areas. In general, it means that we should give some time to our body so that it can adapt to the changed environment.
As we trek through higher altitude, the level of oxygen in the air decreases. This causes our body to need time to adjust and adapt to a less oxygen-rich environment.
Even if you are doing an EBC trek on a helicopter, you should be prepared for the symptoms of altitude sickness. The sudden gain of elevation can cause difficulty in breathing. So you must be aware about the symptoms of altitude sickness. Trekkers should immediately take advice from the guide and follow their advice. If an emergency arises, helicopter rescue services are available at additional cost.
Everest base camp trekking might be more enticing for those who want a bit more adventure. But, if you are looking for a comparatively easy trek on higher altitude areas that is full with excitement, natural beauty, rich culture and diverse flora and fauna, then Annapurna Circuit Trek might also be one good trek for you. .
