Everything You Need To Know About Everest Base Camp

Cheerful faces on Everest Base Camp

As the world’s highest mountain sits upon the Mahalangur section of the Himalayas, the mountain’s summit straddles the border separating China and Nepal. Reaching 298,029 feet(8,848 meters) above sea level, one can assume to be the king of the mountains and overcoming the king has always been the holy grail of mountaineers. Every year, people from all over the world visit Nepal just to soak in the beauty of this magnificent construct of nature. As the Everest attracts experienced mountaineers as well as less-seasoned climbers and has been on the list of every climber either they be professional or seasonal. And the most popular among all the treks is the one to Everest Base Camp.

Everest Base Camp(EBC)

Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the most searched and preferred trekking destinations by the trekkers around the world and this trekking could be a combo of both adventure and challenge for you. Everest base camp trek will walk you downhill through the forest of rhododendron, magnolia, and pine. Ahead lie small settlements and flat trails with pleasant alpine vegetation, monasteries, colorful prayer flags and so does the valley, which is so beautiful that you are bound to click your camera. Another beauty is the Dudh Kosi River, a glaciated river, which is as white as milk and which you cross often by the high suspension bridges that will make the trek livelier.

How to get to the Base Camp?

Primarily most of the trekkers take a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla to reach EBC but due to the rehabilitation work being carried out and domestic and international flights being disrupted the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal has notified the airlines to reroute the flight to Lukla from Manthali Airport of Ramechhap.

Another way of reaching EBC is through a  highway drive to Jiri/ Salleri heading toward the off-beaten trail taking you to the Salleri for Everest Trek. This is for those who enjoy slow travel and the bonus for slow traveling is until you get to Lukla, are less crowded, have spectacular views, and wonderful insights into the Solu Sherpa culture.

Minimum and Maximum Time frame of the Trek?

Well, this generally depends upon the trekker preference if the trekkers are physically fit and can manage a 7-9 hours trek daily up the mountains then he/she can normally complete the trek in  10 days. But this journey is very strenuous as it takes a 16 days trek(Max) and compacts it for a shorter trek which eventually hikes up the trekking hours per day. So, if you are someone who hasn’t had much experience of trekking and wants to trek enjoying each and every moment at the region then a 14 days time frame would be appropriate as it gives you the proper time to acclimatize and enjoy the scenic beauties of the trek.

Budget Required For Everest Trek

Well, the budget estimation depends on what kind of trek one is embarking on and how much of a spender one is. But generally, the cost ranges from anywhere around  US $900 to US $1800. It depends on how much one would like to splurge oneself with various extra luxuries as well.

Necessary Permits Required

Update: Oct 1st 2018 TIMS Card is no longer valid for Everest Base Camp Trek

With decentralization, a new permit system has been implemented on Everest Region. You will no longer require a Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) Card. With lots of controversy and dispute, this new local entry permit has completely replaced the old trek permit in Khumbu. 

The necessary permits required for trekking to EBC are :

  1. Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit(New one)
  2. Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit

Necessary Documents for Permit?

You just need your passport details for Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality and Sagarmatha National Park Entrance Permit. You will need two photos for the Gaurishankar Conservation Area Project Entry Permit and you also need to fill up a short form to obtain the permit. All these fees are payable in local currency only.

How is Everest Base Camp on each Season?

Although it is possible to trek on Everest throughout the year on any given seasons but the best time to visit Mount Everest is in the Spring and Autumn. As during the autumn season, the weather tends to be relatively stable with mild to warm days and cold nights. And during Spring the weather is quite clear and the peaks are often visible and the temperature is warm and just ideal for a trek. 

Spring Season(April-May):

The spring months are probably the most popular in the region as a whole. You might be caught in the occasional snow showers if you catch the end of the winter season, but the weather should be largely stable and dry- perfect for trekking and high altitude climbing.

Autumn Season(September-November):

Clear days are characteristic of this popular trekking period. Although colder days(and colder nights) are to be expected, this is a small price to pay for the wonderful vistas and perfect views of the region peaks. And added bonus of trekking during this time is the option to choose some other, less well-known routes in the area that still offer amazing views but without the hustle and bustle of the more popular routes. 

Winter Season(Dec-Feb):

The region during this period can best be described as being very cold but still is trekkable. The days will be shorter and there is a lot more snow, thus routes that involve crossing big passes like the three passes trek are usually closed. The weather will be fairly stable and dry, meaning it is entirely possible to trek the classic route to Everest Base Camp in these months. 0One can expect the temperature to be as cold as -30degree Celsius at night higher up the route.

Summer Season/Monsoon Season(June-August):

Summer may sound like the prime time to visit Mount Everest, but it is also monsoon season during which the mountain can receive large amounts of rainfall. During the monsoon season, the Everest peak is, more often than not, shrouded in mist. Although a trek is doable during this season, it is quite difficult as the slippery trails, leeches and the lack of mountain views are just about enough reasons in off-putting most trekkers from trekking.

Everest Base Camp Trek Difficulty

The trek to Everest Base Camp is approximately 130km, so you need to walk 15km per day for about two weeks. It’s not a plain walking surface and like most typical treks in Nepal, there’s a lot of going up and down. The distance you cover does not require super fitness, the altitude does, however, make it tough. And also having a strong mindset is also very important while trekking in these parts of the mountains. Everest Base Camp Trek is influenced by; your pack weight, a porter can make it much easier and season, if you’re cold and miserable then it is definitely harder.

To sum it up you will be walking 5 to 8 hours a day for 16 days, with a resting day or two for acclimatization. If you are reasonably fit you should be able to do this to carry your own backpack.

Tipping Guide/Porter

In Nepal tipping is not mandatory but it is expected as major earning or saving funds is the tips for the guide/porter. Tipping is based on the experience you had with your trekking team. It totally depends upon how you felt about the services and overall hospitality that was provided to you so if you are satisfied you can tip them accordingly.

Is Internet/Electricity Available in the Everest Base Camp Region?

One can buy internet as there is a service called Everest Link through which one can get certain data package for a certain amount of money and after the purchase of the data pack one can get access to the internet in most parts of the region. But be warned that the signal often goes down and you will lose signal depending on where you are on the trail. As the elevation also factors in good signal strength of the mobile and internet signals. 

As for electricity for charging electrical devices, there is proper electricity in Lukla, Phakding, Namche, and Tengboche. You can charge your batteries with solar devices in Pheriche, Labuche and Gorakshep. However, it is better to charge as much as possible till Tengboche and have enough back up for further up as charging facilities depends upon weather higher up.

Some Hotel facilitates charging in the room itself without extra cost. While in other they charge 300 to 400 per battery per hour.

Necessity of Insurance:

While traveling to Nepal, you are requested to have travel insurance that should cover any comprehensive expenses possible to acquire due to medical issues or accidents. Especially, your travel insurance must protect air ambulance, treatment charges, rescue and evacuation, product cancellation and refundable charges, flight delays, and cancellations.

Insurance Policy:

Traveling in the Himalayas is full of adventurous; hence it is wise to choose a proper insurance policy. While choosing your insurance policy, make sure that it will protect all such unforeseen expenses. You must ensure that the policy you do take provides an adequate level of protection, well familiar with your itinerary and covers you for the activities involved. You must carry proof of insurance (e.g. your insurance certificate) with you on holiday or send us a scanned copy and it must be issued from your homeland. 

Preventing Altitude Sickness 

Altitude sickness is caused by ascending too quickly. It is wise to climb slower to prevent it. As, it is very common on the Everest Base Camp trek and can happen to anybody, irrespective of how old or fit you are or if you have previous trekking experience. So, here are some ways to prevent Altitude Sickness:

  1. Hydration– Drink plenty of water, it’s very important to stay hydrated.
  2. Trekking Pace– Walk at your own pace, take your time, don’t go too fast.
  3. Eat carbs– It’s not often we’re told to eat extra carbohydrates but when you’re at higher altitudes, you need more calories.
  4. Avoid Alcohol– Alcohol, cigarettes, and medications like sleeping pills can make altitude sickness symptoms worse. So, avoid it.
  5. Medication– Taking acetazolamide(Diamox)two days before the trip and during your trip can help prevent altitude sickness. Acetazolamide is a medication typically used to treat glaucoma. But is also used to prevent altitude sickness.

Alternatives to EBC Treks?

Apart from EBC trek, there are other plenty of trekking options that one might like to consider as the Everest region is itself is a very beautiful and adventurous place. Here are some few of the best trekking alternatives apart from EBC.

  • High Passes Trek
    • Crossing Three High Himalayan Passes
    • Incredible Exploration of Gokyo Region
    • Breathtaking Himalayan View
    • Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar Trekking 
  • Island Peak
    • Wonderful View of The Mt. Everest
    • Cultural Wonders of Everest Region
    • Tengboche and Pangboche Monasteries Exploration
    • Peaceful yet adventurous walk all throughout the trip
  • Gokyo Valley
    • Trek to Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo RI
    • Visiting All of the high valleys of the Khumbu with extra time
    • Soaring views of the most popular mountains in Nepal 
    • Cultural Wonders of Everest Region
Truly Beautiful View of the Everest
The Mighty Everest

So, if the above-mentioned things are taken into proper consideration than you will have a wonderful time trekking in the most spectacular region. Carry all the necessary permits as mentioned above take all the precautions and there’s no way you are not going to have a wonderful time.

A Complete Three High Passes Trekking Guide

Introduction and Information about Everest Three Passes Trek

Renjo La pass (5,388 m/ 17,677 ft), Cho La pass (5,380 m/ 17,650 ft) and Kong Ma La pass (5,535 m/ 18,159 ft) are identified as the three passes/ high passes situated in eastern territory, Khumbu region of Nepal. Encountering Everest base camp strolling via these passes including Gokyo RI (5,384 m/ 17,664 ft), Chukung (5,550 m/ 18,208 ft) and Kalapatthar (5,545 m/ 18,192 ft) with inspection of highest peaks Makalu (8,463 m/ 27,765 ft), Lhotse (8,516 m/ 27,939 ft) plus Mt. Everest (8,848 m/ 29,028 ft) is considered as Everest three passes trekking.

Attractions of Everest three passes trekking
  • Thrilling and spectacular flight over snow-capped crests to Tenzing Hillary Airport (rated on the list of world’s adventurous airport).
  • Exploration of Sagarmatha National Park (First National Park of Nepal) encompassing total territory of (1,148 km2/ 443 sq mi) which is also enlisted on the list of World Heritage Site.
  • Opportunity to involve in complicated and breathtaking stroll experience via high passes Renjo La pass, Cho La pass and Kong Ma La pass all above 5,000 m proportionate to sea level.
  • Inspection of Gokyo RI with the largest Glacier in Nepal besides analysis of Namche Bazaar (largest settlement of Legendary Sherpa’s) moreover Tengboche Monastery (oldest Monastery of Khumbu Region) en route
  • An unbelievable glimpse of Mount Everest (highest peak throughout the globe) with morning sunrise view from Kalapatthar (Perfect vantage destination of Khumbu Region).
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Everest three passes trekking route

As we all know, there are untold trekking trails for encountering Everest base camp but in essence after sightseeing major attractions of Kathmandu valley initially pursuing the standard Everest base camp chain trip with thrilling flight till Lukla after which assists to trek forward towards Phakding till Namche Bazaar. Therefore, changing the route being passed completely through Thame, Lungdeng, Renjo La Pass (First pass), Gokyo RI, Dragnag, Cho La Pass (second pass), Zhonglha, Lobuche, Gokarshep takes to Everest base camp. Marching ahead to Kalapatthar leads forward towards Lobuche, Kong Ma La Pass (Third pass), Chukung, Dingboche, Tengboche, Jorsalle steers to Lukla to Kathmandu for concluding the trek.

Everest three passes difficulty level

To be honest, concluding Everest three passes trek is highly complicated and adventurous undertaking. While admiring the rundown of complicated chains of trekking in Himalayas of Nepal other than it’s normal to sight this assignment in list. Crossing three passes over 5,000 m and trekking long distance along up to the elevation of 5,545 m isn’t a joke. Extremely, high scope of stamina with great physical condition are the indispensable prerequisite to conclude trek effectively in like manner, climbing up slopes, adequate cycling, swimming and outdoor/indoor exercises which is especially identified with heart and lungs devouring exercises for assisting breathing velocity in powerful term is essential to operate a long time before building up a trek despite trekking experiences.

Everest three passes trekking distance

Everest Three High Passes Trek is the ultimate tour of Everest region, known as the Khumbu. During the trip, trekkers get to witness phenomenal views of the highest mountains in the world, climbs to three mountain passes and three peaks all with altitudes of over 5,000 meters, and a taste of authentic Nepalese culture. Depending on the peaks visited, the trek’s length is about 166 kilometers (103 miles), but most of the hike is spent at altitudes above 5,000 meters (16,400 feet) and the total elevation gain is about 11,000 meters (36,000 feet), making this one an intensely difficult physical test. The average walking hours for this trek is 5 to 6 hrs per day.

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Info’s required for Everest three passes trekking

Documents and pays: Passport possessing validity of more than 6 months is required to make sure your passport span is more than required, separate photocopies of passport, proof of insurance, 2 extra pp size photos, airline tickets, ready money for purchasing Nepalese visa at Airport and (for withdrawing funds bank/ATM) photocopies of identity card.

The body wears Headscarf, headlight with elective, shades, half and long sleeves upper wears, windcheater jacket, waterproof jacket, light warm tops and match of ordinary, gloves, Inner wears, trekking shorts, trekking trousers, waterproof pants, typical socks, and comfortable trekking shoes.

Practical and welfare items: Sleeping bag, large travel bag, compact personal carry bag, a camera with extra batteries, binoculars, mini folding knife, anti-bacterial hand wash, guide books, pocket travel games, power bank. First aid box including band-aids, anti-loose motion pills, anti-headache pills, cold and cough medicine, anti-altitude sickness pills, water purification tablets, stomach antibiotic and toiletries.

Besides, requirements can vary according to seasons and conditions so don’t neglect to argue with trekking agency once before developing trek.

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Best season for Everest three passes trekking

Due to over precipitation, the trail at the season of rainstorm/monsoon from June to August is particularly slippery and unsafe along the landscapes are hidden by thick mists likewise winter season from December to February is greatly frosty along low compensating in light of snowfall. If the chilly cold doesn’t bother than in like manner trek on winter season is obviously possible. After that, spring from March to May and autumn from September to November are considered as the ideal seasons to encounter Everest three passes trek. Suitable temperature and rewarding climate condition are the terms of spring and autumn seasons as the ultimate trekking period in Khumbu.

Altitude sickness and Acclimatization

As we goanna achieve elevation up to (5,545 m/ 18,192 ft) apart most of the foreign trekkers are from low elevation nearly equivalent to sea level so for ignoring the altitude difficulty operating acclimatization on systematic manner is very essential. Besides, furthermore being moderate goal fit aren’t enough to even exceedingly experienced trekkers who are set up to seize most rewarding package also need to operate acclimatization at the time of adding the elevation for ignoring all those altitude sickness issues.

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Death and casualty While Trekking in Everest Three high Passes

Upon this topic, till the records and statics shows really very low nearly equivalent death rate which seldom spots only by their negligently upon guide and carelessness. Trekking trails of Nepal are really safe apart that Everest three passes trekking chain faces rare accidents within huge gaps because this chain isn’t pursued by trekkers without a guide.

 

Trekking with us

The most vital reason expressed by regular and potential trekkers in the wake of interfacing with us is significantly rewarding and successful endeavor with safe departure. Besides, qualification of the guide with skilled learning of all through space close by the high extent of English speaking power for establishing trek more extraordinary and brilliant. Truth be told, there are endless hidden and separated attractions on the way holding distinctive facts and beliefs along missing is without a doubt disregarded while trekking with us.

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