Top 15 Frequently Asked Questions about Everest Base Camp Trek

Almost everyone who loves the mountains dreams of standing at the foot of the world’s tallest peak, Mount Everest. The Everest Base Camp trek is a bucket-list adventure for many. If you’re planning this iconic trek but still have a few questions, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

Below, we’ve answered the Top 15 Frequently Asked Questions about the Everest Base Camp Trek, based on what our travelers most often ask us.

FAQs of Everest Base Camp Trek

What happens if Lukla flights are delayed or cancelled?

Lukla flights are highly weather-dependent. Delays and cancellations are common. If you’re short on time, a shared helicopter transfer to/from Lukla is an option at extra cost, though availability and price vary. We strongly recommend adding 1–2 buffer days to your schedule to account for delays without missing other connections. Always book flexible international flights if possible.

What is the weight limit for the Lukla flight?

Flights to Lukla have a strict weight limit. Most airlines allow around 15 kg per person, including both checked and hand luggage. But limits can vary by airline and season. The restriction exists due to the short airstrip and small aircraft. You can usually pay for extra baggage, but during the peak trekking seasons (spring and autumn), this option may not be available even if you’re willing to pay more.

Pack efficiently and use a durable duffel bag for porters to carry extra if you hire one. Keep essential items such as medicines, documents, and warm layers in your daypack in case of baggage issues. Confirm exact allowances with your airline before departure.

What is the weather like in the Everest Base Camp region?

The weather at Everest Base Camp changes frequently throughout all seasons. Spring, from March to May, offers bright skies, moderate temperatures, and blooming rhododendrons, making it quite lovely for trekking.

The autumn months are once again best suited for such activities, as crisp air, stable weather, and panoramic mountain views are quite refreshing and inviting for trekking.

Winters (December to February) can be extremely cold, and heavy snowfall generally occurs at higher elevations. Whereas summer and monsoon (June to August) rains, which are mixed with a lot of clouds, provide conditions for leeches at lower altitudes.

Days are bright and sunny most of the time, with temperatures falling soon after sunset.

How difficult is the Everest Base Camp trek?

The Everest Base Camp trek is moderate to challenging, but can be achieved with proper preparation and the right mindset. The trek starts at Lukla (2,860 m / 9,383 ft) and gradually climbs to 5,364 m / 17,598 ft to reach the Everest Base Camp. Walking long hours each day at such elevations can be demanding, especially as oxygen levels drop the higher you go.

Physical fitness plays a significant role in your EBC trekking experience. Regular cardio training, leg workouts, and short hikes before your trip can significantly improve your endurance.

On the Everest Base Camp trek, you gain altitude quickly, so it is difficult to acclimatize. So you need to check your age, fitness, and preparation before opting for this trek. It does not matter if someone found it easy while others found it difficult; it depends on you and your preparation.

How much does it cost to do the Everest Base Camp Trek?

Everest Base Camp Trek is not a cheap vacation. It is expensive. The trek requires flying in and out in a domestic plane which already costs you few hundreds of dollars. Moreover, the trek takes place in the mountains which are already a remote place. Every grocery item, as well as other necessary goods, should be transported from the cities which make simple essentials like soap, snacks, etc. cost much more than their usual price. So, in short, it is an expensive trek but worthy of every penny you spend.

But the trek cost is not only limited to the net cost provided by the trekking companies. There are many other things you should prepare beforehand before opting for the Everest Base Camp Trek.

For instance, visa, trekking gear and international flight tickets are something that should be prepared by you. So leaving the net cost of the trek, these expenses are something you should plan.

And most importantly, travel insurance is costly but extremely essential. Many clients ask us "Why should we purchase travel insurance?" As experts, we must inform you that travel insurance is very necessary when you are preparing for the Everest Base Camp trek or any trekking adventure in the Himalayas. Furthermore, without travel insurance, you are not eligible to do the EBC trek. It is a necessary document, like a passport, when trekking in Nepal. Also please note that when you purchase your travel insurance, make sure it covers an altitude of 6000m.

Travel insurance covers your extra expenses incurred during the trek, emergency helicopter evacuation in case you get mountain sickness and also your cancellation charge if you are unable to do the trek on the planned date. But remember you must have valid reasons to claim the insurance.

In short, the Everest Base Camp Trek requires a lot of preparation and there is no fixed cost for the trek because it varies according to the trekking companies. Likewise, make sure what is offered and not offered at the given price.

What type of accommodation is found in the Everest Base Camp trek?

The EBC trek is a popular trekking route in the world. Hence, you can expect some sort of luxury while on the trek. Primarily, during the trek, what you should not expect is that you can stay at hotels. On these trails, we do not have hotels; we have teahouses, lodges, and guesthouses, which offer almost the same services as hotels.

You can find both basic and luxury accommodations while on the trek. At all the stops during the trek, you can find simple and basic teahouses equipped with twin rooms to accommodate two people.

Also, you can find luxury mountain lodges to stay overnight. However, mountain lodges are only available in Lukla, Phakding, and Namche. The rooms at these luxury lodges come with attached bathrooms and hot running water at all times.

When is the best time to do the Everest Base Camp trek?

Most people often ask us this question. As per the statistics, Nepal is most visited during the spring and autumn seasons and least during the summer/monsoon and winter seasons. But it all depends on people and their preferences because all the seasons have their own attractive features.

For instance, the spring season, from March to May, is considered the best time to do the Everest Base Camp trek due to its clear, moderate weather. Likewise, the autumn season, which falls from September to November, greets you with stunning mountain views.

Whereas summer/monsoon brings freshness, because during this time, you will be traversing through deep, lush jungles. Also, if you want to avoid the crowd and don’t mind mushy trails and frequent encounters with leeches, then it might be an ideal time to do the EBC trek. Similarly, if you have a high tolerance level to resist the cold and love the snow, then the winter season is also not a bad time to do the trek.

Is electricity available in the EBC region? Can I charge my electronic devices on the trail?

Yes, electricity is available in most parts of the Everest Base Camp trek. In the lower regions, such as Lukla, Phakding, and Namche Bazaar, electricity is supplied by local hydropower grids. However, as you move higher toward Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, and Gorak Shep, electricity is primarily generated through solar panels.

Most teahouses charge a small fee (usually NPR 300–500 per hour), and lower-elevation villages have more reliable power. Above Tengboche, electricity is often solar-powered and less dependable, so bring a power bank and consider a small solar charger as backup. Carry the right plug adapters and a multi-plug if you have several devices. Expect to pay a fee between NPR 300–500 for charging at higher lodges.

How good is the phone network and internet service in the EBC trek?

You’ll find mobile coverage and Wi-Fi across many parts of the trail, especially around large villages; service quality drops at higher and remote sections. Buying a local SIM (Ncell or Nepal Telecom) in Kathmandu gives decent coverage and data for most of the trek. Most teahouses offer paid Wi-Fi. But network speed can be slow and may be unreliable during bad weather. Plan for intermittent connectivity and let people know you might be offline.

How do trekkers get safe drinking water on the trail?

Most teahouses sell boiled or filtered hot/cold water for a small fee. And remember, prices rise with altitude. A cheaper, eco-friendly option is to carry a refillable bottle with water purification tablets or a filter, and refill from taps or springs. Avoid single-use plastic bottles to reduce waste. Always purify water from natural sources before drinking.

What type of food and drinks are available on the EBC trail?

You can find a variety of food and drinks while on the trek. Many teahouses offer menus with local and international dishes, and some even feel like cozy little cafés.

Also, if you have any dietary restrictions, such as vegan or gluten-free meals, you need not worry because the teahouse will prepare a dish to your preference. Nonetheless, we suggest that all trekkers follow a vegetarian diet during the trek, as non-vegetarian meals are difficult to digest at high altitude.

All in all, your meal preference will be taken care of by the Everest Base Camp trek. For further information, please check out this Food on Everest Base Camp trek page.

What is the distance of the Everest Base Camp Trek?

The Everest Base Camp trek usually covers 130–140 km (80–87 miles) round-trip, depending on the chosen trail and starting point. The most common trail starts in Lukla (2,860 m / 9,383 ft) and traverses Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, and Gorak Shep to reach Everest Base Camp (5,364 m / 17,598 ft).

The hike takes about 12 to 16 days, with acclimatization stops along the way. The distance walked each day ranges from 5 to 8 hours, with some days covering about 10 to 15 kilometers (6 to 9 miles) in total. The trek combines trails and brief climbs, culminating in elevation gains that make it physically challenging, even though the distance per se is not particularly strenuous.

How many days does it take to do the Everest Base Camp trek?

If you are fit and an avid trekker, you can complete the trek in less than 12 days, which is the standard time. However, reducing the number below 12 days is not advisable, because rapidly gaining great altitude can impact your health and cause altitude sickness, which can lead to a life-threatening situation.

To finish the trek in 12 days, trekkers should be able to walk 5 to 6 hours daily. However, the recommended duration for the Everest Base Camp trek is 16 days. In 16 days, one can properly include acclimatization days and complete the trek smoothly without rushing.

What trekking gear and clothing do I need during the EBC Trek?

Essentials include a warm down jacket, thermal base layers, a waterproof outer layer, good-fitting trekking boots, a warm hat and gloves, a sleeping bag (cold-rated), and a sturdy daypack. Season affects specifics (e.g., heavier insulation for winter). Also bring a headlamp, water purification, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a basic first-aid kit.

Check our complete gear checklist for a detailed, season-specific list before packing.

Can a beginner do the Everest Base Camp trek?

Yes, a beginner can also trek to Everest Base Camp (EBC). However, they must maintain physical fitness and prepare mentally for the challenges ahead. It is, in general, not a technical trek and does not require professional mountaineering training. Still, it does involve quite a lot of walking over long distances at high altitude, which would make your trek strenuous.

Preparation Tips for Beginners:

• Physical Training: Start physical training for this trek 3 to 4 months in advance. Cardio and strength activities should be the focus, including biking, swimming, jogging, and stair climbing. Schedule some hill walks with a load in your backpack to be as close to trekking as possible.
• Acclimatization: Climb slowly, taking days in between to acclimatize your body to the increasing altitude. This helps to minimize the chances of altitude sickness.
• Mental Readiness: Conditioning for hours of trekking in various weather conditions, with a firm, positive attitude, are essential characteristics to carry you through.
• Support and Guidance: Hiring an experienced guide or joining an organized trekking group such as Nepal Hiking Team can help beginners navigate the trail safely and comfortably, offering advice on pacing, acclimatization, and local conditions.