A 12-day circuit from Kathmandu to Everest Base Camp through Sherpa villages, high ridgelines, and glacial moraine. This guide covers logistics, terrain, and what you’ll need to safely reach 5,364 m.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The trail opens like a page ripped from high-altitude life: prayer flags flutter over a river gorge, yak bells punctuate thin air, and the valley narrows as Everest itself grows from a distant ridge to a pinnacle that dominates the skyline.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
12 days
Fitness Level
Strong cardio base and experience with multi-day hiking at altitude; able to walk 6–8 hours on uneven ground.
Wildlife
History
The Khumbu Valley is Sherpa country and the traditional gateway for Everest expeditions since the 1953 ascent; villages grew around yak trade and mountaineering support.
Conservation
Sagarmatha National Park handles permits and fees to fund conservation; carry out waste and avoid using disposable plastics to reduce local impacts.
Reserve your spot on the Everest Base Camp Trek today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize deliberately
Plan at least two acclimatization days (Namche Bazaar, Dingboche) to reduce altitude sickness risk.
Pack for temperature swings
Layering with a warm insulated jacket plus breathable shells handles frigid mornings and sunny afternoons.
Book Lukla flight windows
Domestic flights are weather-dependent—allow extra buffer days in Kathmandu for delays.
Respect park rules
Carry your Sagarmatha National Park permit and follow Leave No Trace to protect fragile alpine zones.
Insulated down jacket
Keeps core warm during sub-zero mornings and windy ridgelines.
fall
Sturdy waterproof trekking boots
Support and traction for rocky trails, river crossings and moraine navigation.
Hydration system + water treatment
Allows safe drinking from village refill points and reduces reliance on plastic bottles.
Headlamp with extra batteries
Early starts and limited daylight at higher camps require reliable lighting.