Trekking in the Himalaya is a lifelong dream for many avid hikers, and what could be better than a pilgrimage to its greatest mountain—Mount Everest, known in Nepali as Sagarmatha, the "Peak of Heaven." This 16-day adventure is nothing short of a true quest, and with over 50 years of experience leading treks in Nepal, MT Sobek is the best company to guide you to Everest Base Camp at 17,600 feet elevation. Our peerless, top-notch guides—all seasoned mountaineers—will ensure your trek is an unforgettable journey. After achieving your lofty goal, descend to Pangboche for a final night in the Khumbu before boarding a helicopter for a scenic flight back to Lukla. This is our ultimate signature trek to the base of the world's highest mountain!
Trekking in the Himalaya is a lifelong dream for many avid hikers, and what could be better than a pilgrimage to its greatest mountain—Mount Everest, known in Nepali as Sagarmatha, the "Peak of Heaven." This 16-day adventure is nothing short of a true quest, and with over 50 years of experience leading treks in Nepal, MT Sobek is the best company to guide you to Everest Base Camp at 17,600 feet elevation. Our peerless, top-notch guides—all seasoned mountaineers—will ensure your trek is an unforgettable journey. After achieving your lofty goal, descend to Pangboche for a final night in the Khumbu before boarding a helicopter for a scenic flight back to Lukla. This is our ultimate signature trek to the base of the world's highest mountain!
Since our first treks in Nepal in 1969, Mountain Travel Sobek has worked closely with Himalayan communities by building strong relationships with local guides. We are also proud supporters of the American Himalayan Foundation which brings shelter, safety, education, health, and opportunity to people across the Himalaya.
Welcome to Kathmandu! Meet your trip leader or an MT Sobek representative and transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon, receive a briefing and orientation, including information on trekking, altitude acclimatization, areas you will visit, and culture within the region. Enjoy a welcome dinner at Dechenling Restaurant.
Accommodation: Yak and Yeti Hotel
Meals: Dinner
Fly to the Khumbu
Day 2
Transfer to the airport for the flight to Lukla. The short but spectacular flight leaves the Kathmandu Valley and heads into the Himalaya, home to the world's highest mountains. Make an unforgettable landing on Lukla's 1,729-foot-long, 65-foot-wide runway, perched high on a mountainside above the Dudh Kosi (River of Milk). Collect your gear and walk to your lodge. If the flight is on time, fit in a warm-up hike to Kharka, on a trail that leads to Mera Peak, passing small hamlets and resident shepherds along the way.
Accommodation: Everest Summit Lodge-Lukla
Activity: 3 hours/3 miles hiking
Transportation: 30-minute flight
Meals: Breakfast
Hike Lukla to Monjo
Day 3
Begin your trek from Lukla with a descent to the Dudh Kosi. Follow the trail to Phakding, passing mani walls (boulders inscribed with Buddhist prayers), small villages, and well-terraced hillsides. Meet Khumbu locals who, unlike the majority of Kathmandu residents, are Sherpas — people who migrated from Tibet over 500 years ago and still dress traditionally and practice evolved forms of Tibetan Buddhism. With Khumbila (18,800'), sacred peak of the Sherpas, looming above, arrive at the lodge in Monjo (9,317') in the early afternoon. Relax and enjoy free time while you acclimatize.
Accommodation: Everest Summit Lodge-Monjo
Activity: 6 hours/8 miles hiking with 819' elevation loss/865' elevation gain
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek to Namche Bazaar
Day 4
Head north into UNESCO-listed Sagarmatha (Mount Everest) National Park, established in 1976 to protect an area of great environmental, religious, and cultural importance. Cross the Dudh Kosi and begin the steep climb up "Namche Hill" amidst lovely rhododendron, fir, and magnolia forests. As you ascend, catch your first glimpse of majestic Everest (29,028')! Arrive in the vibrant Sherpa market town of Namche Bazaar, the unofficial Khumbu capital beautifully situated in a terraced amphitheater facing the hanging glacier below Kwangde (20,293'). Check into the lodge, then spend the afternoon exploring Namche Bazaar.
Accommodation: Hotel Namche
Activity: 4-5 hours/3 miles hiking with 1,858' elevation gain
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike to Tashinga
Day 5
You’ll have some time in the morning to visit the Sagarmatha National Park Visitors Center and Museum, where there are terrific views of the Everest region and numerous educational displays on the culture, geography, geology, climatology, and wildlife within the park and the Khumbu. A great way to kickoff the cultural experience! Follow the classical route to Everest, on a winding, almost level trail. After about 3 hours of hiking, take a slight detour off the main path and hike 15 minutes further before arriving at your comfortable lodge. After check in, the rest of the afternoon free to rest and relax.
Accommodation: Everest Summit Lodge—Tashinga
Activity: 4-5 hours/4 miles hiking with 795' elevation gain
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Ascend to Tengboche and Pangboche
Day 6
Descend into the deep Dudh Kosi Gorge — one of the most beautiful valley walks on Earth — and then climb steeply to the famous Tengboche Monastery (12,680'). Burned in 1989 and now completely rebuilt, Tengboche is the spiritual center of the Khumbu and a training center for new monks. After lunch, continue through this holy region to Pangboche. This incredibly scenic hike follows the Imja River, and Ama Dablam (22,349') and the great massif of Everest hovers majestically above. The tangible spirituality and stunning scenery of this place always impresses!
Accommodation: Everest Summit Lodge—Pangboche
Activity: 5-6 hours/7 miles hiking with 1,274' elevation gain
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day Hike to Ama Dablam Base Camp
Day 7
After crossing the Imja River and a gradual ascent to Lhabarma, you find yourself facing Ama Dablam, one of the Khumbu's most beloved and spectacular mountains. Ama Dablam Base Camp (15,013') sits on an open yak pasture beneath the west face, affording incredible views of Kan Tega (22,254'), Thamserku (21,729'), and Tawoche (21,463'). Here you'll likely meet climbing groups, either acclimatizing or fixing their route, as this trek coincides with climbing season. With binoculars you may even see climbers descending the steep ice slopes from the summit. Return to the lodge.
Accommodation: Everest Summit Lodge—Pangboche
Activity: 6-7 hours/8 miles hiking with 1,939' elevation gain and loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Continue to Pheriche
Day 8
It's all stunning scenery all the time today as you follow the river with the breathtaking peak of Ama Dablam watching over you. With the giant Himalayan mountains now coming into clear view, cross the Khumbu Khola and make your way up to the remote village of Pheriche (14,070').
Accommodation: Edelweiss Lodge
Activity: 3 hours/3 miles hiking with 996' elevation gain
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Day Hike to Tabuche Ridge
Day 9
Today you have the option to take a day hike to Tabuche Ridge. This optional hike is one of the least crowded and most scenic of the journey, and offers the opportunity to see 360-degree views in addition to the Mahalangur Himal range of the Himalayas. It is a steep, 2,700-foot climb, but take it slow and know that the sweet reward of stellar views are well worth it! Return to Pheriche to end the day.
Accommodation: Edelweiss Lodge
Activity: 5-6 hours/4.5 miles hiking with 2,700' elevation gain and loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek to Lobuche
Day 10
Walk through the broad and beautiful Khumbu Khola riverbed en route to a herdsmen's settlement — also once a 1953 British Everest expedition camp. With Tawoche and Cholatse towering above, ascend to the hamlet of Dughla, then continue up a steep terminal moraine atop which stand memorial cairns to those lost on Everest. The landscape is now wild and rocky, and an often frozen stream leads to Lobuche — a former yak-grazing settlement now serving trekkers and climbers bound for Everest Base Camp and Kala Patar. Enjoy a spectacular sunset over Nuptse (25,850').
Accommodation: Himalayan Eco-Resort
Activity: 5-6 hours/4 miles hiking with 2,130' elevation gain
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Reach Everest Base Camp (17,600')
Day 11
Get ready for the ultimate adventure—your Everest Base Camp day has arrived! Start your exhilarating ascent to Gorak Shep (17,000'), the highest village in the Khumbu region. After a well-deserved, nourishing lunch at a local lodge, prepare for an epic trek as you follow the dramatic ridgeline of the moraine. Then, descend onto the boulder-strewn glacier and make your way to Everest Base Camp (17,600')—a thrilling moment of achievement! While you won't see Everest's summit from here, the views of the towering Khumbu Icefall and the surrounding Himalayan peaks are nothing short of spectacular.
Accommodation: Snowland Highest Inn
Activity: 7-8 hours/10 miles hiking/1,400' elevation gain, 600' elevation loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike to Kala Patar (18,500')
Day 12
Begin your day with an early hike to Kala Patar (18,500'), the highest point of your journey, offering unbeatable, close-up views of the majestic Mount Everest and the surrounding peaks. After soaking in the dramatic scenery and snapping plenty of photos, descend to Gorak Shep. From there, continue down to Lobuche and Thukla (15,090') to complete this exhilarating day of trekking.
Accommodation: Kala Pathar Lodge
Activity: 6-7 hours/7 miles/1,500' elevation gain/3,490' elevation loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Return to Pangboche
Day 13
This morning, instead of taking the trail back to Pheriche, you stay up high on the wide grassy plateau and make your way to Dingboche to admire a glimpse of Imtsa Valley. After lunch descend the pleasant trail to Pangboche. If you did not have a chance to visit the gompa (temple) in Pangboche on the way up, it is worth a quick visit now.
Accommodation: Everest Summit Lodge—Pangboche
Activity: 4-5 hours, 5.7 miles, 2,200' elevation loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Fly to Kathmandu
Day 14
Bid a fond, if somewhat hesitant, farewell to the Khumbu and enjoy a short helicopter flight from Pangboche to Lukla and onwards to Kathmandu (via helicopter or small plane). Upon arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel and enjoy lunch and dinner on your own.
Accommodation: Yak and Yeti Hotel
Transportation: 30-minute flight
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hinduism & Buddhism in Kathmandu
Day 15
If your flight from Lukla operates as scheduled, you'll enjoy a morning tour of the Pashupatinath Hindu temple complex on the Bagmati River and Bodhnath's enormous Buddhist stupa — the largest in Asia and the center of Tibetan Buddhist culture in the Kathmandu Valley. This afternoon you're free to roam, relax, or do some last-minute shopping or sightseeing on your own. In the evening, join the group for a farewell dinner.
Accommodation: Yak and Yeti Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Depart for Home
Day 16
After breakfast, transfer from the hotel to airport and depart Kathmandu on your homeward-bound flight. Or if you'd prefer to spend more time in Asia, consider joining one of our extensions in India, Vietnam, or Cambodia. We would love to accompany you on another trip through Nepal in the future.
MT Sobek is a pioneering outfitter in Nepal and has offered Everest Base Camp adventures since 1969. This is where adventure travel started!
This 16-day legendary adventure has been expertly crafted to build in acclimatization time for a successful personal achievement - reaching Base Camp at 17,600 feet and Kala Patar at 18,500 feet. It also includes a scenic helicopter flight from Pangboche to Lukla to avoid the need to retrace your steps.
Trust MT Sobek's professional local guides on this expert-led Himalayan trek. Along the way you will explore Sherpa villages, visit Buddhist monasteries, and come away feeling connected to the people as well as the place.
It's important to note that the Nepali government has the authority to make the final decision on the type of aircraft used for the flights between Kathmandu and Lukla, and this decision is subject to change at any time. It may be either a scheduled flight or helicopter.
Dates & Prices
2025
Go Private
Go Custom
Inclusions
2025
Scheduled Dates
Price is per person, double occupancy in USD.
The earlier you book, the more choice of available dates you’ll have and once you book, your price is guaranteed.
Dreaming of an adventure designed exclusively for you? With insider access and decades of experience, our travel experts create custom tailored adventures that are perfect for families, couples, and large groups. MT Sobek's custom adventures are designed to our exacting standards and led by our award-winning adventure guides.
When to start planning? Earlier is always better when designing a custom trip. More time allows for better availability of preferred accommodations, guides and your desired activities. Ideally, start the conversation with us at least 6 months before you want to travel. If you are looking for a custom trip that departs within three months, chances are greatly diminished in securing requested accommodations and the best guides.
*Custom trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit once an itinerary is agreed upon.
The best people to immerse you in a destination are the ones who live there, which is why we feature local Adventure Guides on our trips. Here are a few that you might meet on this adventure.
Binoy R.
Raised in the Himalayas and schooled in Darjeeling, Binoy has always been passionate about trekking and mountaineering. In addition to being a top guide on MT Sobek’s Everest Base Camp and Everest Lodge to Lodge adventures, he has undertaken an Advance Mountaineering Course from the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute in Darjeeling and is well-versed in Wilderness First Aid. Binoy has climbed many peaks in the Nepal and Sikkim Himalaya, and enjoys studying the region’s flora and fauna. Above all, he is eager to share the wonders of his home country with you.
Pranoy R.
Pranoy was born in Nepal, studied in Darjeeling, India, and has always been a travel enthusiast. Since 1999, he has led numerous treks and tours to Nepal, Tibet and India, and has enormous experience in the field. Pranoy successfully completed his basic mountaineering course at the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute of Darjeeling with grade 'A' certificate and is trained in wilderness medicine. In addition to being fluent in English, Nepali, and Hindi, he speaks basic Tibetan and Chinese. Pranoy is very keen on birds, plants, and flowers, and he looks forward to sharing his knowledge with you on the trek.
Lhakpa N.
Lhakpa was born in Namche Bazaar to a mountaineering family. His father was a climbing Sherpa and went to the South Col on several expeditions, including the 1963 American Everest expedition. After completing his education, Lhakpa spent time mountaineering on Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world, and trekking among Nepalese peaks. Lhakpa has a deep interest in environmental issues and speaks Nepali, Sherpa, and Tibetan as well as English. Lhakpa has worked with MT Sobek since 1983, first as sirdar and now as a legendary trekking guide. Meet Lhakpa on one of our popular Everest adventures!
Welcome to Kathmandu! Meet your trip leader or an MT Sobek representative and transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon, receive a briefing and orientation, including information on trekking, altitude acclimatization, areas you will visit, and culture within the region. Enjoy a welcome dinner at Dechenling Restaurant.
Transfer to the airport for the flight to Lukla. The short but spectacular flight leaves the Kathmandu Valley and heads into the Himalaya, home to the world\'s highest mountains. Make an unforgettable landing on Lukla\'s 1,729-foot-long, 65-foot-wide runway, perched high on a mountainside above the Dudh Kosi (River of Milk). Collect your gear and walk to your lodge. If the flight is on time, fit in a warm-up hike to Kharka, on a trail that leads to Mera Peak, passing small hamlets and resident shepherds along the way.
Begin your trek from Lukla with a descent to the Dudh Kosi. Follow the trail to Phakding, passing mani walls (boulders inscribed with Buddhist prayers), small villages, and well-terraced hillsides. Meet Khumbu locals who, unlike the majority of Kathmandu residents, are Sherpas — people who migrated from Tibet over 500 years ago and still dress traditionally and practice evolved forms of Tibetan Buddhism. With Khumbila (18,800\'), sacred peak of the Sherpas, looming above, arrive at the lodge in Monjo (9,317\') in the early afternoon. Relax and enjoy free time while you acclimatize.
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Head north into UNESCO-listed Sagarmatha (Mount Everest) National Park, established in 1976 to protect an area of great environmental, religious, and cultural importance. Cross the Dudh Kosi and begin the steep climb up "Namche Hill" amidst lovely rhododendron, fir, and magnolia forests. As you ascend, catch your first glimpse of majestic Everest (29,028\')! Arrive in the vibrant Sherpa market town of Namche Bazaar, the unofficial Khumbu capital beautifully situated in a terraced amphitheater facing the hanging glacier below Kwangde (20,293\'). Check into the lodge, then spend the afternoon exploring Namche Bazaar.
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Descend into the deep Dudh Kosi Gorge — one of the most beautiful valley walks on Earth — and then climb steeply to the famous Tengboche Monastery (12,680\'). Burned in 1989 and now completely rebuilt, Tengboche is the spiritual center of the Khumbu and a training center for new monks. After lunch, continue through this holy region to Pangboche. This incredibly scenic hike follows the Imja River, and Ama Dablam (22,349\') and the great massif of Everest hovers majestically above. The tangible spirituality and stunning scenery of this place always impresses!
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After crossing the Imja River and a gradual ascent to Lhabarma, you find yourself facing Ama Dablam, one of the Khumbu\'s most beloved and spectacular mountains. Ama Dablam Base Camp (15,013\') sits on an open yak pasture beneath the west face, affording incredible views of Kan Tega (22,254\'), Thamserku (21,729\'), and Tawoche (21,463\'). Here you\'ll likely meet climbing groups, either acclimatizing or fixing their route, as this trek coincides with climbing season. With binoculars you may even see climbers descending the steep ice slopes from the summit. Return to the lodge.
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Walk through the broad and beautiful Khumbu Khola riverbed en route to a herdsmen\'s settlement — also once a 1953 British Everest expedition camp. With Tawoche and Cholatse towering above, ascend to the hamlet of Dughla, then continue up a steep terminal moraine atop which stand memorial cairns to those lost on Everest. The landscape is now wild and rocky, and an often frozen stream leads to Lobuche — a former yak-grazing settlement now serving trekkers and climbers bound for Everest Base Camp and Kala Patar. Enjoy a spectacular sunset over Nuptse (25,850\').
Get ready for the ultimate adventure—your Everest Base Camp day has arrived! Start your exhilarating ascent to Gorak Shep (17,000\'), the highest village in the Khumbu region. After a well-deserved, nourishing lunch at a local lodge, prepare for an epic trek as you follow the dramatic ridgeline of the moraine. Then, descend onto the boulder-strewn glacier and make your way to Everest Base Camp (17,600\')—a thrilling moment of achievement! While you won\'t see Everest\'s summit from here, the views of the towering Khumbu Icefall and the surrounding Himalayan peaks are nothing short of spectacular.
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If your flight from Lukla operates as scheduled, you\'ll enjoy a morning tour of the Pashupatinath Hindu temple complex on the Bagmati River and Bodhnath\'s enormous Buddhist stupa — the largest in Asia and the center of Tibetan Buddhist culture in the Kathmandu Valley. This afternoon you\'re free to roam, relax, or do some last-minute shopping or sightseeing on your own. In the evening, join the group for a farewell dinner.
After breakfast, transfer from the hotel to airport and depart Kathmandu on your homeward-bound flight. Or if you\'d prefer to spend more time in Asia, consider joining one of our extensions in India, Vietnam, or Cambodia. We would love to accompany you on another trip through Nepal in the future.
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[ActivityHighlight] => On this trek you will be hiking 7-9 hours a day, mostly at elevations above 12,000\'. The trails are extremely difficult and this type of terrain, combined with the altitude, makes it a challenging experience. You need to be in excellent physical condition and have similar previous experience of hiking and sleeping at high altitudes.
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Activity Level
This trip is rated activity level 5. On this trek you will be hiking 7-9 hours a day, mostly at elevations above 12,000'. The trails are extremely difficult and this type of terrain, combined with the altitude, makes it a challenging experience. You need to be in excellent physical condition and have similar previous experience of hiking and sleeping at high altitudes. Learn more about activity levels here.
Activity Snapshot
Day 2
3 hours/3 miles hiking
Day 3
6 hours/8 miles hiking with 819' elevation loss/865' elevation gain
Day 4
4-5 hours/3 miles hiking with 1,858' elevation gain
Day 5
4-5 hours/4 miles hiking with 795' elevation gain
Day 6
5-6 hours/7 miles hiking with 1,274' elevation gain
Day 7
6-7 hours/8 miles hiking with 1,939' elevation gain and loss
Day 8
3 hours/3 miles hiking with 996' elevation gain
Day 9
5-6 hours/4.5 miles hiking with 2,700' elevation gain and loss
Day 10
5-6 hours/4 miles hiking with 2,130' elevation gain
Day 11
7-8 hours/10 miles hiking/1,400' elevation gain, 600' elevation loss
Day 12
6-7 hours/7 miles/1,500' elevation gain/3,490' elevation loss
Day 13
4-5 hours, 5.7 miles, 2,200' elevation loss
*Mileage and elevation change information is approximate and may vary slightly depending on trail conditions, weather, and route adjustments, and the guide’s discretion.
Accommodations
Scenic and comfortable mountain accommodation in Nepalese inns and lodges, plus three nights at the Yak & Yeti Hotel in Kathmandu.
A five-star oasis in the heart of Kathmandu, the Yak & Yeti is the perfect blend of contemporary international standards and time-honored Nepali tradition. Guests will find refuge among antique fountains, gilded temples, and emerald gardens while enjoying a state-of-the-art gymnasium, spa features, shopping arcades, atrium, tennis courts, and swimming pools.
Lying at the very gateway to mighty Mount Everest, the Everest Summit Lodge in Lukla has spacious, comfortably furnished rooms with en-suite facilities. The natural stone facade is complemented by a lovely sunny garden, and its traditionally appointed interior makes for a very warm welcome to arriving guests.
Rest in comfort at the Everest Summit Lodge in picturesque Monjo. The setting is spectacular, overlooking the village and the narrow Dudh Kosi Valley, and with the dreamlike backdrop of magnificent Thamserku rising high up behind the lodge. Hot tea and warm staff help every guest feel welcome.
Situated amidst pine forests overlooking the Dudh Kosi Valley, the Tashinga Lodge offers breathtaking views of Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Tawoche, and Khumbila. Comfortable rooms and local hospitality make for a wonderful stay at one of the most beautiful locations along your trek.
The village of Pangboche sits, quite literally, in the lap of Ama Dablam. With Everest to the north, Thamserku and Kang Taiga to the east, Kongde Ri to the south, and the Imja River flowing through the wide fertile valley, the quaint Pangboche Lodge rests in the midst of abundant natural glory. En suite facilities round out the comfortable accommodations.
Travelers boast about the location (not uphill!) and the kind staff of this simple but comfortable lodging in the heart of Namche Bazaar. Guests can enjoy the restaurant, bar, and outdoor patio. Most rooms have electric blankets, private bathrooms, and hot showers — welcome comforts in the chilly Khumbu region.
Located within the Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park, Edelweiss Lodge commands a panoramic view of Himalayan peaks. The lodge was constructed with a blend of modern practicality and Sherpa traditional style. Simple rooms have WiFi, ensuite bathroom, and views of the mountains. Meals are served in the dining room, also with breathtaking views, a warm wood-burning stove, and a mix of local and continental fare.
Nestled in the foothills of the Himalaya within the Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park, Himalayan Eco Resort offers simple rustic rooms with shared bathrooms and a single hand-washing station. Hot water bottles keep you cozy at night. The long low building is accented with stone walls and beautiful surroundings. WiFi is available in the dining room.
This simple lodge has a homey feel with stone walls and outdoor picnic tables when the weather warrants it. At Kala Pathar, rooms are small and simple with shared bathrooms and a single handwashing station. Hot water bottles keep you warm at night. Hikers gather in the dining room, heated by a wood stove, to share stories of their day over a hot meal, access the WiFi, and perhaps purchase one of the delectable cakes on offer to enjoy together.
Surrounded by Himalayan peaks, Snowland Highest Inn's spacious dining room features comfortable seating, wood stove heating, a small shop, views from paned windows and WiFi. Guest rooms are simple with 2 single beds and shared bathrooms. Gorak Shep is the last lodging before reaching Everest Base Camp.
Weather
Fall temperatures are typically 30 - 65°F during the day, and -5 - 35°F at night. Rain or snow is possible. Springtime is usually 5 - 10°F warmer.
Apr
May
Oct
Nov
Everest Base Camp
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Everest Base Camp
50
23
59
32
54
20
46
10
Kathmandu
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Kathmandu
83
55
84
61
79
57
73
47
Namche Bazaar
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Namche Bazaar
46
20
55
25
45
20
42
15
FAQs
How can I get to Kathmandu from the US?
There are no direct flights from the USA to Kathmandu. However, there are many airlines that offer connecting flights through major hubs in Asia, such as:
New York (JFK): Air India, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Etihad Airways
Los Angeles (LAX): Air India, Qatar Airways, Emirates, Singapore Airlines
Chicago (ORD): Air India, Turkish Airlines, Etihad Airways
San Francisco (SFO): Air India, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines
Houston (IAH): Air India, Emirates
Atlanta (ATL): Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines
The flight time from the USA to Kathmandu will vary depending on the hub you transit through, but it will typically take around 19-21 hours.
What happens if my flights are delayed in Lukla?
Flights to and from Lukla are commonly delayed or cancelled due to the Khumbu's unpredictable weather. If we are delayed, lodging and meals at Lukla are at your expense. We do everything possible to obtain replacement reservations or try to book alternate flights when Lukla flights are cancelled, but be prepared for delays. The extra day at the end of the trek is to ensure connection to your homeward-bound flight.
Do I need a visa for Nepal?
Yes, and you can get a 30-day visa on arrival for $40.
Do I need to bring a sleeping bag for this trip?
You don't need to bring a sleeping bag. Quilts and blankets are provided at the lodges. We'll provide sleeping bags with fleece liners wherever they are needed.
Will I have cell coverage on this trip?
It's best not to count on it, as coverage is spotty.
Are there any baggage weight restrictions on the flight to Lukla?
Yes. You can bring 15 kg / 33 lb baggage per person-including checked and hand-carry baggage. It's not possible to pay for overweight baggage.
What is the minimum age for this trip?
The standard minimum age for this trip is 18, but check out our private trip options for families and groups with younger guests.
"In a word, 'Incredible!' The journey to base camp was well planned and the difficulty was moderate, but we were all ready for the challenge. Mountain Travel Sobek did a wonderful job bringing us together for a trip of a lifetime!"
Karl S. MT Sobek Guest, Nepal Everest Base Camp Trek