Te Puni Tūāpapa o Everest: Te Aratohu Tino Pai mō ngā Hāereere me ngā Kaihīkoi

te Ko te Tihi Paerere Papa Everest is Nepal’s most recognized high-altitude trekking route, leading to the southern base camp of Mount Everest (5,364 m /17,598 ft). About 40,000 trekkers complete the route through the Khumbu region every year, passing Sherpa villages, Buddhist monasteries, suspension bridges and alpine valleys to the base camp, from which climbers journey to the summit of Everest. The trip is incredibly scenic and steeped in the history of Himalayan exploration, so it’s an ideal choice for the toughest of the tough or the first-time trekking novice.

Sagarmatha in Nepal and Chomolungma in Tibet are the mountains known as Mount Everest (8,848.86m /29,031.7ft), which is on the border of Nepal and China. The mountain was named the world’s highest peak in the Great Trigonometrical Survey in 1856 and was first successfully summited by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa in 1953. A large part of the Trek is covered by Sagarmatha National Park, which was set up in 1976 and designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.

The park preserves a variety of ecosystems in the Himalayas, rare wildlife and centuries-old Sherpa culture. While the trail has become more accessible thanks to better lodges and the development of trekking services, there are no motor roads beyond Lukla; supplies are still brought by porters, yaks and helicopters.

Haerenga Manakohia

Maunga Everest Base Camp Trek – 12 ra

The Everest Base Camp Trek is Nepal's most recognized high-altitude trekking route, leading to the southern base camp of Mount Everest (5,364 m /17,598 ft). About 40,000 trekkers complete the…

12 Days

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Haerenga Āhua

Geography, Climate and Best Seasons

The Khumbu region is situated in the eastern part of Nepal in the district of Koshi Province in the district of Solukhumbu. The Dudh Koshi River starts from the glaciers in the high mountains and flows through the valleys traversed by trekkers. The landscape rises from Lukla (2,860 m /9,383 ft) to the summit of Mount Everest (8,848.86 m /29,031.7 ft). Along the route, you will also see several famous Himalayan peaks, including Lhotse (8,516 m /27,940 ft), Nuptse (7,861 m /25,791 ft) and Ama Dablam (6,812 m /22,349 ft). The route traverses much of Sagarmatha National Park, an area with Sherpa settlements, wildlife and mountain views.

The scenery is very different in the higher parts of the route. The lowlands are a forest of rhododendron, pine, fir and birch, with open alpine country at higher elevations and rockier slopes and glacial valleys. The trail passes through well known villages including Lukla (2,860 m /9,383 ft), Namche Bazaar (3,440 m /11,286 ft), Tengboche (3,860 m /12,664 ft), Dingboche (4,410 m /14,469 ft), Lobuche at (4,940 m /16,207 ft) and Gorak Shep at 5,164 m (16,942 ft). In the area, Kala Patthar (5,545 m /18,192 ft) is considered the most powerful point for getting close to Mount Everest, which is not well visible from base camp.

The climate at the Khumbu is alpine and the temperature and weather conditions fluctuate widely with altitude. The best trekking weather is from March to May and late September to November. The average daytime temperatures in the lower villages are in the range of 5°C–15°C and in the areas above 4000 m (13123 ft), they are close to or below the freezing point after sunset. Spring brings flowers to the rhododendron forests and in the fall, there are plenty of blue skies and great mountain views.

Winter (December to February) is cold with nighttime temperatures dropping below -20°C in higher altitudes and some lodges may be closed. During the summer monsoon (June to mid-September), the lower elevations have a tendency to receive heavy rain, the upper elevations often see snowfall, trails are a bit slippery and there is a chance of flight delays to Lukla. The weather in the Himalayas can be unpredictable at any time of the year, so it is always important to have appropriate clothing and prepare for unexpected weather conditions.

Routes and Sample Itineraries

Classic Lukla Khumbu Route

The classic Everest Base Camp Trek begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,860 m /9,383 ft) before following the well-established trail through the Khumbu Valley. After Lukla, trekkers proceed to Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche and Gorak Shep and finally end up at Everest Base Camp (5,364 m /17,598 ft). It is also quite common for people to ascend Kala Patthar (5,545 m /18,192 ft) to have the best possible vantage point of Mount Everest. The round trip is approximately 130 km (81 miles), including side trips and overnight accommodation.

The trail is not technical but has several long days out on the high trail. The walks are typically 5 to 7 hours a day, with the hilly sections in between Namche Bazaar and Dingboche and Lobuche and Gorak Shep. Most tours have two acclimatization days in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche to minimize the chances of altitude sickness.

The normal tour duration is 12 to 14 days, which involves travelling between Kathmandu and other places. Nine- or ten-day itineraries are also offered, with less acclimatization time and a greater risk of altitude sickness. One or two additional days in Kathmandu prior to your departure on an international flight are also advisable because the flight to and from Lukla may be delayed due to inclement weather.

A typical itinerary follows this schedule:

Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Everest Base Camp Loop

Gokyo is a great choice for those looking for a more tranquil trail and extra mountain views. But instead of taking the usual route through the valley after Namche Bazaar, the route goes towards the Gokyo Valley where a series of turquoise lakes of glacial water lie below some of the highest summits in the Himalayas. Most trekkers climb the summit of Gokyo Ri (5357 m/17575 ft) and then cross the Cho La Pass (5420 m/17782 ft) and join the main Everest trail near Lobuche.

It typically takes 14 to 16 days and the distance is about 150-170 km (93-106 miles). This is much more difficult than the “traditional route” due to the added distance, elevation and walking days. Micro spikes or crampons might be necessary in early spring and late autumn when crossing Cho La due to snow and ice. Trekkers, however, will get fewer crowds, great views of Everest, Cho Oyu, Makalu and Ngozumpa Glacier and the picturesque Gokyo Lakes.

Helicopter Options

Helicopters provide flexible alternatives for people with limited time or those wanting additional comfort. A helicopter flight is available between Kathmandu and Lukla without the need to fly with fixed wing – even if this may be affected by the weather. Some trekkers go up to Everest Base Camp and then go down straight back to Kathmandu by helicopter from Gorak Shep, which saves the three or four days to complete the trip.

Rental of helicopters is typically cheaper for shared flights than for private charters, because multiple individuals are paying for the same airplane. Helicopter service is also available from Kathmandu to Gorak Shep, although it’s generally a luxury option due to the price. Helicopters are also used to evacuate in an emergency when medical conditions or extreme high altitude pose a threat of rapid descent.

Nga huarahi rereke

If the trekkers prefer otherwise, they can start their trip from Jiri/Salleri rather than flying into Lukla. The historic Jiri route is the original route used by the early Everest expeditions, before the construction of Lukla Airport. It involves an additional week of hiking through authentic villages and forests and makes for more moderate ascents.

An alternative approach to Lukla is from Kathmandu to Salleri or Salleri (Thamdanda) and back to Lukla by trek. It’s a way to avoid the potential delays of flight and gives the option to see a more detailed glimpse into the lower Khumbu region but also includes additional walking days. To visit Tibet Base Camp in the northern mountain range of Mount Everest, you can go to Tibet by road after obtaining a China visa and a Tibet travel permit but not a normal hiking tour.

Whakataurite huarahi

Permits, Costs and Transport

A tourist visa is required for most people who want to trek in Nepal before their arrival. A visa is available at the Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu. The current fees are US$30 for 15 days, US$50 for 30 days and US$125 for 90 days. Most trekkers need a visa that will be valid for 30 days but those with longer trips might need a 90-day visa. A passport valid for at least six months, a passport-sized photo and payment in USD or other major foreign currency will be required.

Foreign trekkers need to get a Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit to get access to the Khumbu region. Most foreigners pay NPR 3,000 per person for the national park permit and NPR 3,000 per person for the local municipality permit.

Trekkers coming from Jiri will also need to obtain a Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit from Jiri at an additional cost of NPR 3000. TIMS cards are no longer required for the Lukla route. The government of Nepal has enforced new restrictions on foreign trekkers that must be accompanied by a licensed guide organized by a registered trekking agency since 2023.

The easiest way to get to this trail is to fly from Kathmandu or Ramechhap to Lukla. Depending on the peak season of the trekking season, there will be multiple airlines that will take off from Ramechhap to ease the congestion at Kathmandu airport. Typical flight duration is 25 to 35 minutes, although they are often cancelled or postponed due to mountain conditions. Most airlines provide 10 kg (22 lb) of checked and 5 kg (11 lb) of hand luggage free of charge and you will be charged for overweight luggage.

Those wishing to avoid Lukla flights can opt to drive from Kathmandu to Salleri or Thamdanda and then proceed by foot to Lukla, which will add a day or two to the trek. Helicopters are far more expensive than scheduled flights and can be hired for private flights, group transfers or emergency medical evacuations.

The amounts of fees, transport and regulations are subject to change. Ensure you have the latest updates from your trekking company and the respective government agencies before you make your booking, to prevent any sudden changes.

Accommodation

It is along this trail that one can find accommodation, primarily through teahouses, which are only basic establishments, run by the family and can be found in every major village. The majority of rooms are twin-sharing with two beds, mattresses, pillows and blankets and bathrooms are shared. In most places, only heating is provided in the dining room; the common area is heated by a stove in the evening. Keep in mind that bedrooms are non-heated and may get freezing temperatures at higher elevations.

The higher you go, the more expensive the rooms are as food, fuel, and building supplies  have to bring them by porters, yaks or helicopters. Rooms are typically $7 to $12 in Lukla and Phakding. In Namche Bazaar, expect to pay between US$10 and US$15. In Tengboche, US$8 to US$12; in Dingboche, US$15 to US$20; and in Lobuche and Gorak Shep, US$20 to US$25. Several lodgings will give you a discount if you eat in their restaurants.

Hot showers, charging electronic devices and Wi-Fi are generally available at extra cost above Namche Bazaar where the power supply is limited. A few villages have luxury lodges with private rooms, attached bathrooms and other better amenities but these are much more costly. It is also possible to camp but it is rare; there is a network of teahouses for comfortable and convenient accommodation throughout the trek.

Food, Water and Sanitation

Along the trail, many teahouses offer a wide variety of meals; the most popular being dal bhat, which is a substantial meal and frequently offered for free. Other popular foods are fried rice, noodles, pasta, momos, soups, pancakes, eggs and simple pizzas. The price of food rises with altitude because all food supplies are brought from ground level by porters, yaks or by helicopter. The average price per person, per day for meals, drinks and snacks on treks is about $25 to $50 USD. Freshly cooked food is always safe and raw vegetables and uncooked salads should be avoided at higher elevations.

Of course, it’s very important to have safe drinking water throughout the journey. Do not use untreated drinking water from a tap, river or stream. Most tea houses provide boiled or filtered drinking water at US$1 to US$3 per litre and bottled water at US$3 to US$6 per litre at the higher villages. Having a drink bottle that is reusable and comes with some water filtration/purification tablets is both economically and environmentally friendly.

The higher you go, the simpler the toilets get. Western-style flush toilets are found in lower villages; shared squat or bucket flush toilets are found in higher villages. Many of the villages offer hot showers for a small price but water becomes scarce above Namche Bazaar. Bring toilet paper, hand sanitizer and biodegradable soap and use all non-biodegradable waste responsibly. Leave No Trace practices help preserve the sensitive ecosystem at Sagarmatha National Park.

Haerenga Manakohia

GorakShep ki Lukla Helicopter Tour

The Everest Base Camp Trek is Nepal's most recognized high-altitude trekking route, leading to the southern base camp of Mount Everest (5,364 m /17,598 ft). About 40,000 trekkers complete the…

Day 1

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Haerenga Māmā

Gear and Packing List

Having the right equipment makes for a safer and more comfortable journey if conditions and temperatures are apt to change. Layering is the ideal choice of clothing. Layer with moisture-wicking thermal base layers, then a fleece or lightweight insulated jacket and lastly a waterproof and windproof outer shell. Cold mornings, evenings and nighttime trips at higher elevations require a quality down jacket rated for about -15°C (5°F) or below.

Pack sturdy, quick-drying trekking pants, a warm hat, sun hat, neck gaiter, light gloves and insulated gloves. Waterproof trekking boots with a good degree of ankle support are strongly recommended, as are 3-4 pairs of moisture-wicking trekking socks. A 30–40-liter daypack and rain cover are perfect for holding a daypack.

Other essentials are a sleeping bag that is rated for about 20 C (–4 F), trekking poles, a headlamp with extra batteries, sunglasses (with UV protection), sun cream, lip cream and a water bottle with a filter or purification tablets. Bring a simple first aid kit including blister treatment, personal medicines and any altitude medications prescribed by your doctor.

Carry a power bank, charging cords, toiletries, quick-drying towel, passport, travel insurance paperwork and permits. Bring waterproof clothes in Spring and Fall for unforeseen rain or snow. For the winter hikes, you’ll need heavier insulated outfits and a warmer sleeping bag whereas for the monsoons, additional waterproofing is a must for the backpack, boots and clothes.

Fitness and Training Plan

If you are well prepared before the hike, your hike will be more enjoyable and help your body to deal with long days out. Begin training 3-4 months before departure to allow for establishment of the endurance to walk 5-7 hours a day on rough ground.

Engage in cardiovascular activity (hiking, running, cycling, swimming, stair climbing) at least 3-4 times a week. Include regular trekking sessions with a 4-6kg (9-13lb) backpack, if possible, on steep hills. Do not jump between sessions but slowly build up the length and challenge of the training session.

Strength training is also a must-have. Increase the strength of the legs and core by doing exercises such as squats, lunges, step-ups, calf raises and planks 2-3 times per week. Include stretching or yoga to keep the body flexible, balanced and avoid injury on long descents.

A basic 12-week program is effective. During the first 4 weeks, concentrate on running/easy strength training. Weeks 5-8 incorporate longer hikes with a backpack and frequent stair climbing. In the last four weeks, hike for one 5-6 hour hike plus two shorter training hikes per week. Train down in the last week before travelling, so your body can get some rest.

Fitness is essential for endurance and recovery but won’t cure altitude sickness. Take a gradual ascent, drink plenty of fluids and consult your physician before traveling if you are taking a medication like acetazolamide (Diamox) for altitude prevention.

Altitude Sickness, Health and Evacuation

Altitude sickness is the greatest health risk encountered on the trek, as the route goes from Lukla at (2,860 m /9,383 ft) up to EBC at (5,364 m /17,598 ft). The higher the altitude, the less oxygen; your body must adjust to the lower oxygen levels. The most frequent type is Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), which typically occurs 6-12 hours after ascending to high elevation.

Symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, loss of appetite, unusual tiredness and trouble sleeping. More serious illnesses are High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE), causing severe dyspnea and persistent cough and High-Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE), which may result in confusion, poor coordination and difficulty walking.

The best prevention is a slow rise. Rise rapidly with a maximum of 500 m per day (9843 ft per day) after 3000 m (9843 ft) and add acclimatisation days at e.g. Namche Bazaar and Dingboche. Get plenty of water, make healthy meals of carbohydrates, don’t drink any alcohol and don’t ignore the early signs. Using acetazolamide (Diamox) as prescribed by a doctor may help prevent AMS but should not be used in place of acclimatisation.

If slight symptoms occur, stay at the current elevation until you feel better. If symptoms become worse or do not improve, descend immediately. Suspected HAPE or HACE is a medical emergency requiring immediate descent, supplemental oxygen if available and urgent evacuation.

There are basic health clinics in the villages like Namche Bazaar and Pheriche but cases that are serious must be evacuated by helicopter to Kathmandu as there are no roads above Lukla. Full travel insurance is a necessity as rescue flights may cost US$5,000 to US$10,000. Make sure your policy covers trekking to at least 5,500m (18,045ft) and helicopter rescue and medical treatment in case of emergency.

Kaiarahi me nga Kaipupuri

The foreign trekkers in Nepal must trek with a registered trekking agency and all visitors have to be accompanied by a licensed guide since April 2023. Guides will organize and navigate your route, manage accommodations, verify permits and track your health throughout the trip. They are educated about the common symptoms of altitude sickness and are able to organise emergency action if necessary. Most guides also take a basic first aid kit and some agencies have oxygen for sections at high altitudes.

English is widely spoken by professional guides and many speak both Nepali and the local Sherpa tongues. Generally, the guide fee is between US$25 and US$35 per day and normally includes meals and accommodation. The amount of a tip of $10-$20 USD is accepted for good service.

A porter is available but not a requirement and is strongly recommended if you prefer not to carry a heavy backpack. A porter typically carries 15 to 20 kg (33–44 lb) of luggage and reputable companies prefer not to carry more than 25 kg (55 lb). The wages vary from one day to another and are usually between US$15 and US$25, depending on the company or the client who hires the trekking. The standard amount of the tipping fee is US$5 to US$10 daily. If an operator is selected, ensure that guides and porters are adequately insured and dressed appropriately in clothing, footwear and sleeping bags.

Safety, Weather Risks and Communication

Generally, trekking in the Everest region is safe for trekkers as mountain weather changes rapidly in any season. As can happen on a clear morning, clouds, strong winds, snowfall or poor visibility can occur later in the day. The seasons of spring and fall are the most stable and the time from June to mid-September is the monsoon season when it rains a lot, trails are slick and there are likely to be frequent delays to flights. It can be very cold in winter and at higher elevations, there is increased likelihood of frostbite and of trails being covered with snow.

The trail itself is established but is steep, rocky and icy in places, with stone steps. Walk carefully after rain or snow and always step aside for yaks and pack animals, standing on the inside of the track. The main route does not traverse glaciers or crevasses but where there are glaciers or crevasses, one of the side routes, including Cho La Pass, may need to be taken with extra care.

Weather conditions are a major factor in flights to Lukla, with frequent delays and cancellations. In order to allow for disturbances, one or two additional days of travel time are recommended.

Mobile signal is available in most of the villages from Nepal Telecom and Ncell, except at high elevations. Most tea houses also offer charging and wi-fi services for a fee. Always have a fully charged power bank, offline maps and emergency contacts. Please inform your guide or lodge of any plans you have before you start each day; and take to heart the local weather forecast for a fun and safe trek.

Culture, Conservation and Etiquette

The Sherpa community is indigenous to the Khumbu region, with their traditions and Tibetan Buddhist practices deeply intertwined with the mountains. It is important to show respect for local culture and traditions to ensure that visitors have a positive experience. Saying “Namaste” or “Tashi Delek” (Sherpa greeting) to people is welcome. In monasteries like Tengboche Monastery (3,860 m/12,664 ft), take off hats, talk quietly and ask before taking photos. Walk clockwise around prayer wheels, mani walls and stupas and refrain from climbing on religious monuments or disturbing prayer flags.

The Everest region is also a protected environment and each trekker can play a role in conserving it. Trail entrance fees fund trail upkeep, conservation and community development. Bring a reusable water bottle; refrain from single-use plastics when possible; pack out all non-biodegradable waste. Never dispose of rubbish in open spaces, rivers or streams and always use designated toilets.

Eat in Nepal’s local teahouses, shop locally and use a licensed local guide or porter. Treat wildlife with respect – observe animals at a distance and do not feed them. By following Leave No Trace principles, visitors can help preserve the trail in its fragile condition, for future generations to enjoy.

Whakaahua me nga Tirohanga

The Everest region provides some of the best mountain photography opportunities in the Himalayas. Everest Base Camp is the primary destination but Mount Everest is not completely visible from the camp due to surrounding terrain. The best photos are taken while hiking to Kala Patthar (5,545 m /18,192 ft) where there’s clear sight of Everest, Nuptse, Pumori and Khumbu Glacier at sunrise and sunset.

Other good vantage points are Namche Bazaar, the nearby Everest View Hotel and Khumjung (3,790 m /12,434 ft), all of which have excellent views of the mountains. On the Gokyo route, Gokyo Ri offers another great vantage point of Nga Roto o Gokyo and the Everest range.

Bring extra camera batteries, because cold temperatures make batteries last out rapidly. In a landscape shot, a wide-angle lens should be used and a telephoto lens should be used for distant peaks. Keep equipment dry and safe from snow, ensure you ask permission before taking photos of locals and be aware that drones cannot fly in Sagarmatha NP without permission.

Budgeting and Sample Budgets

The price of the journey will vary based on the type of travel, the degree of comfort that you want and if you’re travelling with a trekking agency. Most tourists prefer to go on a standard guided package which typically includes permits, flights within the country, accommodation, food on the trek and services of a licensed guide. Most foreigners are not allowed to go out into the field as an independent traveller and so the fully self-guided budget is not usually valid.

While you’re packing your trek bag, budget for some travel insurance, Nepal visa fees, tips for your guides and porters, snacks, hot showers, charging electronic devices, Wi-Fi and personal purchases. It is also a good idea to maintain an emergency budget as well in case of flight cancellations or unforeseen hotel expenses due to bad weather.

Additional expenses may include US$100–US$250 for travel insurance, US$30–US$125 for a Nepal visa, US$100–US$200 for guide and porter tips and extra costs for gear rental or purchases. Bring some cash in Nepalese rupees as using cards and ATMs will be limited outside of Namche Bazaar.

Haerenga Manakohia

Te Piki Moutere me Everest Base Camp Trek

The Everest Base Camp Trek is Nepal's most recognized high-altitude trekking route, leading to the southern base camp of Mount Everest (5,364 m /17,598 ft). About 40,000 trekkers complete the…

19 Days

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Haerenga Uaua

Pātai Auau

What can I do if my Lukla flight is cancelled?

Delays due to weather are regular. Schedule one or two days of buffer time or, if that’s not feasible, use a helicopter.

May I trek on my own?

No. Under current regulations, the majority of foreign hikers are required to use a registered Nepalese trekking agency to get a license as a guide.

Me aha ahau mēnā ka pāngia ahau e te mate teitei?

Cease climbing, rest, stay hydrated and descend if symptoms do not improve or if they worsen within a reasonable time.

Are there any hospitals or health centers along the trail?

Basic clinics are available in villages like Namche Bazaar and Pheriche and if the condition is severe, they are evacuated to Kathmandu by helicopter.

What will I do if my luggage is lost or delayed?

Bring important items such as clothing, medicine and paperwork in hand luggage. Basic trekking equipment is also available to hire and/or buy locally.

E hia nga moni hei mau mai i ahau?

Carry sufficient money in Nepalese rupees as ATMs are scarce beyond Namche Bazaar and card payments are not always available.

Would it be safe to drink the water from the tap or stream?

No. It is always advisable to drink boiled, filtered or treated water to prevent stomach ailments on the trail.

In how many additional days should I add to my trip in Kathmandu?

Plan for a minimum of two more days for potential delays in the flight from Lukla and for preparation before and recovery after the trek.

Does travel insurance include helicopter rescue?

If you are planning a trek above 5,500 m (18,045 ft), then you need a special policy that covers high altitude trekking and emergency helicopter evacuation up to this altitude.

Can people with no mountaineering experience do the Everest Base Camp trek?

Yes, if you are physically fit, are properly acclimatized, have realistic expectations and are guided by an experienced licensed trekking guide.