It wouldn’t be wrong to say that the Everest Base Camp is a special treat to all the hikers and adventure seekers gifted by mother nature. It is an iconic destination located in the Khumbu region of Nepal. Considered to be the highest base camp in the world at 5,364m above sea level, the Everest Base Camp trek is a full-packed adventure tour.

The Everest trek takes you through a series of diverse geography from the lush green forests of oaks, pines, and juniper in lower elevations to the rocky and desert terrains in the higher altitudes. Throughout the whole trekking trail you will be accompanied by the stunning Himalayas. The pleasure you get in doing the EBC trek is absolutely immeasurable.

The journey to the EBC starts with the short 30 mins flight from Kathmandu to Lukla to Everest Base Camp.

How to start your trek from Lukla to Everest Base Camp?

Starting your trek from Lukla to Everest Base Camp is a popular route for many trekkers.

Firstly, you have to get to Lukla from Kathmandu either by taking a Lukla flight or traveling by ground transportation via Salleri. Most trekkers tend to take a Lukla flight which is by far the best way to get to Lukla.

Upon reaching the Lukla your trekking journey officially begins full of energy and expectations that lie ahead. Generally, the standard Lukla to Everest Base Camp trek requires 12 days of the walking itinerary which will be provided below.

From Lukla, on your first day, you will trek to Phakding, a major stop-place for all the trekkers. It is 3-4 hours of pleasant walking from Lukla village for the first day of the trek. Further, the trek then continues to take you through numerous Sherpa settlements onwards (Namche, Tyangboche, Pangboche, Dingboche). The heartwarming hospitality of the Sherpa and locals, stunning landscapes, flora, and fauna among many others will steal your heart over and over again. 

Following the route, after approximately 10-12 days of trekking, you will reach the long-awaited destination Everest Base Camp. Such a proud and exciting moment to stand at the world’s highest base camp. Live the moment, take photos, and just enjoy.

Gorakshep will be the last stop on this lifetime trekking experience from Lukla to Everest Base Camp and back. On this entire journey, you will ascend to a max altitude of 5,545m above sea level at Kalapatthar, a huge achievement to be mentioned.

Multiple days of hiking and walking at such a higher altitude in the Nepal Himalayas will be worth the time and hard-earn money.  

Also, check our “Everything To Know About Lukla Flight”

What is the trekking distance from Lukla to Everest Base Camp?

The trekking distance from Lukla to Everest Base Camp covers a total distance of approximately 130km -65km each way. However, the distance varies depending on the specific route taken and any side treks are done.

Also, the distance covered on each day varies too. The first phase of hiking to EBC requires a daily average walking hour of 5-7 hours whereas returning back adds an additional extra hour.

Make yourself comfortable during the trek by walking at a slower pace and hydrating your body. It is also essential to keep your body acclimatize properly at such higher altitudes.

How many days of the trek from Lukla to Everest Base Camp?

Basically, it takes 12 days of total duration trek from Lukla to Everest Base Camp including the two days of acclimatization in between. Here’s the standard outline itinerary.

• Day 1: Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,860m) and trek to Phakding (2,610m)
• Day 2: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
• Day 3: Rest day in Namche Bazaar for acclimatization
• Day 4: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,860m)
• Day 5: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche (4,410m)
• Day 6: Rest day in Dingboche for acclimatization
• Day 7: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche (4,910m)
• Day 8: Trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5,140m) and visit Everest Base Camp (5,364m) and back to Gorakshep
• Day 9: Hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m) for sunrise views of Mount Everest, then descend to Pheriche (4,240m)
• Day 10: Trek from Pheriche to Namche Bazaar
• Day 11: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla
• Day 12: Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu

Before leaving for the trek, make sure that you have all the necessary equipment, documents, and Everest Base Camp Trek Insurance with you.

What should I expect on the Everest Base Camp trail?

Nothing more than an absolute adventure. The whole journey completes on rugged trails with varied terrains from lush forests and rivers to rocky terrain and steep inclines. Crossing the suspension bridges over the raging rivers and encountering the yaks and horses will be something very common to you.

As the trail passes through several Sherpa settlements, you will experience the unique culture and traditions of the local Sherpa people. Their warm and welcoming atmosphere makes the trek more memorable and fun.

Also, you’ll visit the oldest Tyangboche monastery, and several other rhumbas, chortens, and prayer flags along the way.  

Additionally, the EBC trail offers breathtaking views of the stunning mountains including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam among many others. You’ll also see beautiful glaciers, rivers, and valleys.

You will find teahouses at every major stop that provides trekkers with basic accommodations and meals.

Plan Your Trek!