Fly into Lukla and follow a classic high-altitude route through the Khumbu Valley to Everest Base Camp. This guided 14-day journey combines dramatic glacial scenery, Sherpa culture, and careful acclimatization to reach 5,364 m.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The plane drops you into a slab of sky and stone: Lukla’s short runway, prayer flags snapping, and a jagged corridor of peaks framing the airstrip. From there the trail threads down to the Dudh Koshi River, climbs through pine forests, and opens into the Khumbu Valley where prayer wheels and stone mani walls mark each village.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
12–14 days
Fitness Level
Good cardiovascular fitness with experience on multi-day hikes; comfortable carrying a daypack and walking 4–7 hours/day.
Wildlife
History
The Khumbu Valley was settled by Sherpas who migrated from Tibet; the region rose to prominence in mountaineering after early expeditions led to the first Everest ascent in 1953 by Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay.
Conservation
Glacial retreat and trekking waste are pressing issues; use local operators who follow waste-management practices and support community-based conservation.
Reserve your spot on the EBC Trekking With Flight today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize deliberately
Schedule rest days (Namche) and limit daily elevation gain to reduce acute mountain sickness risk; carry a pulse oximeter if possible.
Book flexible flights
Lukla flights are weather-sensitive—allow extra days in Kathmandu and avoid tight international connections.
Footwear and traction
Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots with ankle support and microspikes for icy sections keep you safe on mixed terrain.
Respect local customs
Ask before photographing religious sites and follow monastery etiquette—remove hats in temples and keep voices low.
Sturdy waterproof hiking boots
Support and traction on rocky, muddy, and icy Himalayan trails.
Warm down jacket (800-fill or similar)
Critical for high camps and cold evenings above 3,500 m.
winter
Hydration system (1.5–2L) and water purification
Staying hydrated aids acclimatization; purification prevents gastrointestinal illness.
Lightweight trekking poles
Reduce knee strain on descents and improve stability on uneven terrain.