Everest Base Camp Travel Guide

There are two base camps on Mount Everest, located on different sides of the Himalayas. South Base Camp is in Nepal at a height of 5,364 meters (17,598 feet), while North Base Camp is in Tibet, China, at a height of 5,150 meters (16,900 ft).

In the Himalayan region of Nepal, Everest Base Camp is a popular hiking destination. The treks take the hikers through some of the most beautiful and remote areas of the country, offering stunning views of Mount Everest and the surrounding peaks. The base camp itself is located at an altitude of 5,364 meters (17,598 feet) and is the starting point for climbers attempting to summit the world's highest mountain.

The trek to Everest Base Camp typically takes around 12-14 days and covers a distance of approximately 150 kilometers. The trail passes through traditional Sherpa villages, rhododendron forests, and high-altitude passes, offering a diverse range of landscapes and experiences. Along the way, hikers will also encounter many other peaks such as Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam.

The trek is considered moderately challenging and requires a good level of fitness. The altitude can also be a challenge, and hikers should be prepared for the effects of altitude sickness. However, the rewards of reaching the base camp and experiencing the incredible views make it well worth the effort.

Everest Base Camp is a popular destination for both trekkers and climbers. While the trek is a challenging and rewarding experience, it also provides an opportunity to experience the local Sherpa people's culture and way of life. The trek is also a great way to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the Himalayan mountains and gain a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

Attractions

• Mount Everest: Of course, the opportunity to view the highest mountain in the world up close is the main attraction of the Everest base camp. At a height of 5,364 meters (17,598 feet), the base camp provides breathtaking mountain views.
• Khumbu Glacier: At the foot of Mount Everest, the Khumbu Glacier is one of the biggest in the world. It is a popular destination for hikers and provides a unique opportunity to get a close-up view of the massive glacier
• Tengboche Monastery: Tengboche Monastery is one of the most revered religious locations in the Khumbu region and is frequently visited by trekkers en route to base camp. Numerous Tibetan Buddhist monks call the monastery home, and it provides a glimpse into the way of life and religion of the region.
• Sherpa Villages: The Everest base camp journey passes through a number of traditional Sherpa villages, giving hikers a fascinating look into the way of life and culture of the locals. The towns are also wonderful places to unwind and enjoy the breathtaking mountain vistas.
• Tengboche Monastery: Tengboche Monastery is one of the most revered religious locations in the Khumbu region and is frequently visited by trekkers en route to base camp. Numerous Tibetan Buddhist monks call the monastery home, and it provides a glimpse into the way of life and religion of the region.
• Sherpa Villages: The Everest base camp journey passes through a number of traditional Sherpa villages, giving hikers a fascinating look into the way of life and culture of the locals. The towns are also wonderful places to unwind and enjoy the breathtaking mountain vistas.
• Kala Patthar: A popular destination for trekkers is the little hill known as Kalapatthar, which is close to the base camp. It provides sweeping views of the mountains in the region, including Mount Everest.
• Gokyo Lakes: The Gokyo Lakes are a group of high-altitude glacial lakes that are located on the way to the base camp. They offer a unique opportunity to see the beauty of the Himalayas up close.
• Namche Bazaar:Namche Bazaar is a popular destination for trekkers to relax and see the native way of life. It is the biggest town in the Khumbu region. There are numerous stores, eateries, and cafes in the town.
• Ama Dablam: Ama Dablam is a beautiful mountain located near the base camp and is often referred to as the "Matterhorn of the Himalayas." It is a popular spot for trekkers to visit and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
• Icefall: The Khumbu Icefall is one of the most dangerous sections of the trek to the base camp. It is a massive wall of ice that is constantly shifting and is a popular spot for trekkers to visit.
• Base Camp: The base camp itself is the final destination of the trek and offers a unique opportunity to see the world's highest mountain up close. It is also a popular spot for trekkers to rest and take in the stunning mountain views.

Climate 

Depending on the season, the climate at the Everest base camp fluctuates significantly.

The weather is often mild, with sunny skies and comfortable temperatures, especially during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). Climbers most frequently attempt to reach the summit of Mount Everest this season. Spring and Fall is considered as best seasons to visit Everest Base Camp.

The weather can be unpredictable during the summer (June to August), with rainstorms and thunderstorms. Since it is monsoon season, climbing is not advised at this time.

Temperatures can drop far below freezing throughout the winter (December to February), and heavy snowfall can make climbing quite challenging. Only experienced climbers attempt to summit during this season, which is the least popular for climbing.

The climate at Everest base camp is challenging and unpredictable, with extreme temperatures, high winds, and heavy snowfall. Climbers must be prepared for any weather conditions and be equipped with proper gear and clothing.

Food 

Everest base camp is located at an altitude of 5,364 meters, and the food available there is limited and basic. The meals are mostly made up of simple dishes such as Dal Bhat (lentils and rice), noodles, and soups. These dishes are high in carbohydrates, which provide energy for strenuous trekking at high altitudes. The food is also typically seasoned with garlic, ginger, and chilies to help with digestion and combat altitude sickness.

Food at base camp is typically prepared by the local Sherpa community, who have been living and working in the region for generations. They use locally sourced ingredients, such as potatoes, carrots, and onions, and also provide options for vegetarians and those with dietary restrictions. The food is served in communal dining tents, where trekkers can sit together and share stories and experiences while enjoying a hot meal.

Accommodation

Accommodation in Everest base camp is quite basic and limited, as the area is remote and only accessible by foot or helicopter. Lodges and teahouses are the main forms of accommodation, and they provide basic amenities such as beds, electricity, and hot water for showers. These lodges and teahouses are run by local Sherpa families and offer a unique cultural experience for trekkers. They are known for their warm hospitality and traditional Nepali food.

However, it is important to note that the lodges and teahouses can fill up quickly during the peak trekking season, and it is recommended to book in advance. Additionally, the facilities may not be as comfortable as those found in more developed areas, so it is important to have a flexible attitude and be prepared for basic living conditions. Despite this, the experience of staying in a traditional teahouse in the shadow of Mount Everest is truly unforgettable.

Things to do

• Hike to Base Camp: This is the main attraction of Everest base camp and the reason why most people come here. The hike takes about 10-12 days and is a challenging but rewarding experience.
• Trek to Kalapatthar: This is a popular side trek that takes you to the top of Kalapatthar, which offers incredible views of Mount Everest.
• Visit the Sherpa Villages: Along the way to Base Camp, you will pass through several Sherpa villages, which offer a glimpse into the traditional way of life of the Sherpa people.
• Explore the Monasteries: There are several monasteries along the trek, which offer a chance to learn about the local culture and religion.
• Visit the Everest View Point: The Everest View Point is a popular spot to take in the stunning views of Mount Everest and the surrounding peaks.
• Take an Everest helicopter tour: If you are short on time or not able to trek, you can take a helicopter tour that will take you to the base camp and back.
• Try the local food: The local cuisine is an important part of the trekking experience. Try the traditional dishes of dal bhat, momos, and Sherpa stew.
• Go for a hot stone bath: After a long day of trekking, you can relax and rejuvenate with a traditional hot stone bath in one of the local lodges.
• Enjoy the Night Sky: The night sky at Base Camp is a beautiful sight, with stars shining bright and the Milky Way clearly visible.

Available packages

• Basic Everest Base Camp Trek Package: This package includes transportation to and from Kathmandu, accommodation in tea houses along the trek, meals, and a guide and porter. The duration of Everest base camp trek is 12-14 days. 
• Everest Base Camp Luxury Trek Package: This package includes transportation to and from Kathmandu, accommodation in luxury lodges along the trek, meals, and a guide and porter. The duration of the Luxury Everest base camp trek is 10-12 days.
• Everest Base Camp Short Trek: This package includes transportation to and from Kathmandu, accommodation in tea houses along the trek, meals, a guide and porter, and a helicopter ride back to Kathmandu. The duration of the Everest base camp short trek is 5 or 7 days.
• Everest Base Camp with Island Peak Climbing: This package includes transportation to and from Kathmandu, accommodation in tea houses along the trek, meals, a guide and porter, and a summit attempt of Island Peak. The duration of the Island Peak climbing and EBC is 19-20 days.
• Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lakes and Renjo La Pass Trek: This package includes transportation to and from Kathmandu, accommodation in teahouses along the trek, meals, a guide and porter, and a visit to the Gokyo Lakes and crossing of the Renjo La Pass. The duration of Everest Three Passes trek is 17-20 days.