Everest Base Camp (Sagarmatha Base Camp) is located in Nepal, on the southern side of Mount Everest, within Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Specifically, it sits at an altitude of about 5,364 meters (17,598 feet) above sea level in the Khumbu region of the Himalayas. The trek to Everest Base Camp typically begins from Lukla, passing through iconic Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Dingboche, offering stunning views of Everest and surrounding peaks.

The Everest Base Camp Trek (Sagarmatha Base Camp Trek) is a challenging trek due to the altitude gradient from Lukla (2846m) to Kala Patthar (5545m), the long walking hours (6-7 avg), and challenging terrain with steep ascends and descends. The weather in the Himalayas can be unpredictable, such that the fog might blanket the trail and the mountain views. However, with proper preparation and acclimatization, trekkers with basic to moderate fitness level can successfully reach the Everest Base Camp.

The Everest Base Camp Trek takes 12 to 14 days, 2 days of flying in and out of the Everest region, 10 days of trekking, and 2 days for acclimatization. The duration of the trek can be varied based on your preferences or detours such as the Everest Three Passes Trek or the Everest Gokyo Lake Trek.

While prior trekking experience is not mandatory, it’s recommended. A good level of fitness and some experience in long-distance hiking at high altitudes can make the trek more enjoyable.

Prior trekking experience is recommended for the Sagarmatha Base Camp trek. If you’ve had good fitness levels and experience of hiking long distances, this trek can be completed. You can book a trek with us and we’ll help you get to the level of fitness required for the trek without prior experience.

Yes, Altitude Sickness is a major concern on the Everest Base trek due to lesser oxygen levels at higher altitudes and shorter distances between altitude gain. To minimize the risk of Altitude Sickness, walking at a slow consistent pace, staying hydrated, and taking acclimatization days, are recommended. You can also take altitude medications such as Diamox and Acetazolamide from the start of the trek to avoid Altitude sickness.

Yes, it is but beginner trekkers heading to Mount Everest Base Camp are advised not to trek solo or you can book with us to manage a proper itinerary and elevation gain over the 12 days of trekking because even experienced trekkers suffer from altitude sickness. Our expert guides are trained to look after you and for signs of altitude sickness.

Trekking to Everest Base Camp with kids is totally possible, the youngest person to complete the EBC trek is 2-year-old Carter Dallas from Scotland who rode on his father’s back. Having an expert guide can ensure safety by monitoring altitude sickness and help in case of emergencies. The journey can be made enjoyable with bedtime stories of Nepal, and games at teahouses to keep them entertained.

Kala Patthar is the highest point you reach on the Everest Camp trek at 5,545 meters (18192 feet). It is a viewpoint that offers the best panoramic sunrise view of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse, Mount Nuptse, Mount Amadablam, and Mount Makalu.

Yes, the Everest BC trek can be crowded during the peak seasons of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). However, going with a guiding company can help with booking teahouses, and having a pleasant experience. You can also choose to trek during the winter or monsoon season which could present additional weather-related challenges.

Everest Base Camp (Sagarmatha Base Camp)

Stand at the Mount Everest Base Camp, at a breathtaking altitude of 5,364m (17598 feet). This famed destination is a bucket list experience for travelers, and adventurers, offering an unparalleled sense of achievement and awe.

Immersive Sherpa Culture

Experience the warm hospitality, rich traditions, festivals, and spiritual depth of the Sherpa people. Learn of their mountaineering history and cultural practices while enjoying their traditional cuisines and vibrant festivals.

Mesmerizing Panoramic Views

Gaze upon the spectacular vistas of the world’s popular peaks, including Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Nuptse, Cho You, and of course, Everest. The Sunrise from Kala Pathar (5545m) offers a once-in-a-lifetime picture of the mountains being painted in hues of gold at dawn.

Exhilarating Flight from Kathmandu to Lukla

Fly into the world’s most exhilarating mountain airport, Lukla, surrounded by the cascading Himalayan landscape. This thrilling flight adds an unforgettable element to the trekking experience and fills you with adrenaline right from the start of the trek.

Explore Tengboche Monastery

Learn about the spiritual essence of the Himalayas at Tengboche Monastery, surrounded by panoramic views. The culturally significant site gives insight into the Tibetan Buddhist practices and traditions of the Sherpa people.

Yes, you can customize your Everest Camp Trek itinerary to suit your preferences, fitness level, and schedule. Please contact us at info@nepalvisuals.com to customize your trek.

Please provide our office staff with the following documents to proceed with booking your hotels and obtaining trekking permits: a passport (valid for at least six months), two passport-sized photos, a copy of your international flight ticket, and a copy of your travel insurance.

The Nepalese government imposes permit fees to preserve the natural resources of respective protected areas. The revenue from the permits is used to maintain the protected areas’ ecosystem including trail maintenance, wildlife protection, and waste management programs. The revenue also supports the local communities by financing education, healthcare, and conservation awareness campaigns.

Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit: This permit costs Rs. 3000 per person per entry into the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality: This permit costs $20 (approx. Rs 3000) per person for 4 weeks and $25 (approx. Rs 3400) per person/week (Beyond 4 weeks).

Yes, you can buy a Nepalese pre-paid SIM card at the Tribhuwan International Airport on the way out. You also have the option to buy it at local shops at a higher cost. There are two major SIM providers namely Ncell and NTC (Nepal Telecom) and the cost for a SIM is Rs. 100 (USD 0.8) and Rs. 90 (USD 0.7) respectively.

There are multiple locations where you can exchange your money including currency exchange counters at Tribhuwan International Airport, banks, dedicated money changers in Thamel and ATMs for cash withdrawals.

Yes, you can use credit cards in Nepal in major cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara. However, it's unusable in rural or trekking areas. That is why we advise withdrawing cash in Kathmandu or Pokhara before going on a trek and carrying denominations of change.

Wi-Fi is available on most popular treks in Nepal for a small price of Rs. 200 to 300 ($1 to $3). You can opt for data plans from SIM cards though they might have limited coverage.

You can also make use of ‘Everest Link’ an internet service exclusive to the Everest region with packages that cost between Rs. 2000 to Rs. 3000 ($15 to $22). The Everest Link has coverage at all major locations on the trek including Gorakshep and Kalapathar.

Nepal Visuals Pvt. Ltd. works tirelessly to ensure that your journey unfolds seamlessly and is imbued with the utmost comfort and enjoyment. Nonetheless, it is paramount to acknowledge that all activities within Nepal adhere strictly to the statutes and mandates established by the Nepal Government and the Tourism Board. Consequently, Nepal Visuals disclaims liability for any alterations to the planned itinerary necessitated by unforeseen events such as governmental directives, landslides, infrastructural impediments, deluges, snowfall, political unrest, ailments, or mishaps. Any supplementary expenses arising from such exigencies shall remain your responsibility and must be addressed promptly at the location where they occur.

Your well-being is our foremost priority. To ensure your safety, we provide a fully equipped first-aid kit and an oximeter throughout the trek. Our experienced guides are prepared to assist you with any minor health issues that may arise. However, in the event of a more critical situation, a skilled team will promptly organize emergency evacuation and rescue to safeguard your health and safety.

The official currency of Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). For daily expenses during your trek, it’s advised to budget approximately USD 20 to USD 40 per day for extra expenses such as beverages, hot showers, charging electronic devices, or Wi-Fi access, as these are typically not included in trekking packages. Cash is the preferred mode of payment in most trekking regions, so ensure you carry enough cash in NPR.

Recharging your batteries might cost between $1-$3. Please remember some teahouses are solar-powered, so the charging might have little to no effect. Its advised to carry a portable charger (Power bank) with you on the trek.

Choosing between the Everest Base Camp trek (EBC trek) and the Manaslu Circuit trek depends on your preferences and fitness level.

Everest Base Camp Trek

The EBC trek is moderately challenging, with well-marked paths and a maximum altitude of 5,555 meters at Kala Patthar. The trail is popular and can be crowded during peak seasons. You'll pass through Sherpa villages, offering insights into their culture. Facilities along the route are well-developed, providing comfortable accommodations and a variety of meal options. 

Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit is more demanding, covering approximately 177 kilometers with rugged terrain and steep ascents. The highest point is the Larkya La Pass at 5,160 meters. This trek is less crowded, offering a more secluded experience. You'll encounter diverse ethnic communities, including Gurungs and Tibetans, providing a rich cultural experience. Accommodations are more basic compared to the EBC trek. 

Considerations:

• Difficulty: Manaslu is generally considered more challenging due to its length and terrain. It's suitable for trekkers seeking a strenuous adventure. 

• Altitude: Both treks reach high altitudes, but EBC goes slightly higher. Proper acclimatization is essential for both. 

• Crowds: EBC is busier, especially during peak seasons, while Manaslu offers a more solitary experience. 

• Cultural Experience: EBC provides insights into Sherpa culture, whereas Manaslu offers interactions with a variety of ethnic groups. 

• Facilities: EBC has better-developed infrastructure with more comfortable accommodations. Manaslu's facilities are more basic. 

Choosing between the Sagarmatha Base Camp trek and the Annapurna Circuit trek depends on your preferences and fitness level.

Sagarmatha Base Camp Trek

The Sagarmatha Base Camp trek offers an iconic Himalayan experience. It brings you face-to-face with Everest and other towering peaks while passing through Sherpa villages and monasteries. This trek is about 12 days long, including acclimatization, and follows well-established trails that get quite busy during peak seasons.

Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit trek showcases Nepal's diversity, from lush forests to alpine terrains. You’ll trek through varying landscapes and encounter different cultures. This route typically takes 12 to 16 days and offers flexibility with transport options, making it a popular choice for those seeking variety.

Things to Consider

• Scenery: Everest Base Camp focuses on high-altitude mountain views, while Annapurna Circuit offers more diverse landscapes.
• Cultural Experience: Everest highlights Sherpa culture; Annapurna includes a range of ethnic communities.
• Difficulty: Both treks are demanding, but Annapurna allows a more gradual ascent, reducing altitude-related challenges.
• Duration: Everest Base Camp is shorter and more defined; Annapurna Circuit offers flexibility in route length.
• Cost: Everest Base Camp is pricier due to flights and higher local costs, while Annapurna is more budget-friendly.
• Crowds: Expect more trekkers on the Everest route, especially in peak season. Annapurna is comparatively quieter.