Everest Base Camp Short Trek

5.00/5 from 608 reviews
Plan your 14-day EBC trek, take on the adventure, and complete a high-altitude goal that defines a lifetime. What begins as a dream becomes a story you’ll carry home—and tell for years to come.
At a Glance
  • DestinationNepal
  • Duration14 days
  • Trip DifficultyModerate
  • ActivitiesTrekking
  • AccommodationHotel/Guesthouse
  • MealsInclusive
  • Max. Elevation5545m.
  • Group SizeMin. 1 Pax
  • Best TimeMarch - May & Sept - Dec

EBC 14-day Trek Overview

We designed this Everest Base Camp Short Trek for travelers who want the full experience of reaching base camp without extra days in Kathmandu.

Across 14 days, you’ll follow the historic route from Lukla to Everest Base Camp, exploring Sherpa villages, Buddhist monasteries, and alpine valleys. The trek includes two acclimatization days in Namche and Dingboche and reaches its highest point at Kala Patthar (5,545m), the best viewpoint for Mount Everest. With a balanced pace and scenic return, it’s perfect for fit adventurers seeking a condensed, high-altitude journey through the Khumbu.

What Makes This Trek Special

This route brings you deep into the Sherpa heartland, where daily life is shaped by Buddhist tradition, ancient monasteries, and the spirit of Himalayan hospitality. You’ll spend time in villages like Namche, Pangboche, and Dingboche—each offering insight into local customs, beliefs, and community life.

The landscapes shift dramatically as you ascend. From pine forests and river crossings to the glacial moraine of Lobuche and the icy expanse of Everest Base Camp, every step reveals a new side of the Khumbu. Along the way, the Everest Base Camp Short Trek immerses you in both natural wonder and cultural richness—culminating with sunrise at Kala Patthar.

Major Highlights of the Short Everest Base Camp Trek

  • Fly into Lukla, one of the world’s most thrilling high-altitude airports.
  • Hike through the UNESCO-listed Sagarmatha National Park with rare flora and fauna.
  • Spend two nights in Namche Bazaar, the vibrant Sherpa capital and acclimatization hub.
  • Visit the iconic Tengboche Monastery with panoramic views of Ama Dablam.
  • Cross high-swinging suspension bridges like the legendary Hillary Bridge.
  • Trek past Pangboche and climb to Dingboche, the gateway to the upper Khumbu.
  • Reach Everest Base Camp (5,364m), surrounded by prayer flags and glacial grandeur.
  • Hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m) for sunrise views over Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse.
  • Descend through Pheriche and retrace the trail through Khumbu’s classic landscapes.
  • Experience Sherpa hospitality, traditional food, and seasonal mountain festivals.

Route Overview

Your journey begins with a warm welcome in Kathmandu. Upon arrival, our team greets you at the airport and transfers you to your hotel. The following day includes a detailed trek briefing, gear check, and time to pick up any last-minute essentials. You’ll also receive your duffle bag, sleeping bag, down jacket, and a printed map to support your trek. Get ready for the early morning flight to Lukla.

We begin with a scenic flight to Lukla, then trek to Phakding along the Dudh Koshi River. The trail continues through forests, suspension bridges, and steep climbs to reach Namche Bazaar. Two nights here allow for acclimatization, with side hikes to Syangboche and the Everest View Hotel offering your first clear views of Everest.

From Namche, we trek through rhododendron forests to Tengboche, home to the region’s most important monastery. We continue past Pangboche and climb to Dingboche, where we spend another acclimatization day with a rewarding hike to Nagerjun Hill (Nangkartshang Peak) for altitude training and sweeping views.

Leaving Dingboche, we trek through alpine valleys and glacial moraines to Lobuche. From here, we reach Everest Base Camp via Gorakshep, then climb to Kala Patthar the next morning for an unforgettable sunrise over Everest. This is the highest point of the trek and a true highlight.

We descend through Pheriche, retracing the trail back to Namche and Lukla. After a final night in the mountains, we take a morning flight to Kathmandu and enjoy a restful final day before your international departure.

Alternative Routes

While this itinerary offers a full Everest experience in a focused 14-day window, we also offer several alternative treks designed for different interests and timeframes. Whether you're looking for a shorter return, a more scenic detour, or extra time for cultural exploration, these options deliver equally unforgettable Himalayan adventures.

Everest Base Camp Heli Shuttle Trek – 12 Days

Perfect for travelers with limited time, the EBC Heli return version follows the classic trail to base camp, then returns to Kathmandu by helicopter from Gorakshep—offering a dramatic aerial finale and skipping the return hike.

Everest Gokyo Trek – 19 Days

Everest Gokyo Lake Trek's extended itinerary includes the pristine turquoise lakes of Gokyo and the challenging Cho La Pass. Ideal for trekkers seeking solitude, glacial views, and a panoramic summit from Gokyo Ri.

Everest Base Camp Trek – 16 Days

Our classic version includes extra nights in Kathmandu and a more relaxed pace on the trail. A great fit for first-time trekkers who want additional time to acclimatize and explore cultural sites.

Itinerary

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Your trek begins with your arrival in Kathmandu. A Nepal Hiking Team representative will greet you at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer you to your hotel. There are no scheduled activities today, giving you time to rest or explore locally.

  1. Accommodation:Hotel

We start early with a drive from Kathmandu to Ramechhap during peak season (Autumn and Spring), followed by a short scenic flight to Lukla. After landing at the high-altitude airstrip, we begin our trek along the Dudh Koshi River and pass through villages and pine forests to reach Phakding.

  1. Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
  2. Accommodation:Guesthouse

We follow the Dudh Koshi River upstream, cross several suspension bridges, and enter Sagarmatha National Park. A steep climb through conifer forests leads us to Namche Bazaar, the largest Sherpa town in the Everest region.

  1. Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
  2. Accommodation:Overnight Stay at Guesthouse

We stay in Namche to acclimatize and take a short hike to Syangboche and the Everest View Hotel for stunning mountain views. On the way back, we visit the Sherpa Culture Museum and learn more about local traditions.

  1. Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
  2. Accommodation:Guesthouse

The trail begins with gentle ridgelines and forested paths before descending to the river at Pungki Thanka. A steady climb leads us to Tengboche Monastery, the spiritual heart of the Khumbu, with wide views of Everest and Ama Dablam.

  1. Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
  2. Accommodation:Guesthouse

After descending through the forest, we cross the Imja Khola and continue through Pangboche village. The trail then opens into high-altitude pastureland as we approach Dingboche, a large settlement surrounded by mountains.

  1. Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
  2. Accommodation:Guesthouse

We hike to Nagerjun Hill, a steep climb above Dingboche that offers clear views of Lobuche East, Ama Dablam, and even Makalu on a clear day. This hike helps with acclimatization as we climb high and sleep low.

  1. Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
  2. Accommodation:Guesthouse

We follow a gradual incline to Dughla, passing the medical post at Pheriche. After a steep ascent past memorials to lost climbers, the trail levels out as we reach the glacial outpost of Lobuche.

  1. Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
  2. Accommodation:Overnight Stay at Guesthouse

We continue past the Khumbu Glacier to reach Gorakshep, drop our gear, and trek to Everest Base Camp. The path crosses rocky terrain and moraines before reaching the iconic base of Mount Everest. After exploring, we return to Gorakshep.

  1. Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
  2. Accommodation:Guesthouse

We start before sunrise to hike to Kala Patthar, the best viewpoint for Mount Everest. After descending to Gorakshep for breakfast, we continue downhill past glacial rivers and alpine terrain to Pheriche.

  1. Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
  2. Accommodation:Overnight Stay at Guesthouse

We follow the Imja River valley down to Tengboche, then climb to Kyangjuma before reaching Namche. The route covers familiar trails, forests, and chortens, offering great views on the return.

  1. Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
  2. Accommodation:Overnight Stay at Guesthouse

Today we retrace the trail down the Dudh Koshi Valley, cross several bridges, and pass through villages until we reach Lukla. It’s our final night in the Khumbu.

  1. Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
  2. Accommodation:Overnight Stay at Guesthouse

We take an early flight from Lukla to Ramechhap, followed by a return drive to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, we transfer you to your hotel and the rest of the day is free.

Regarding Lukla Flight

As per Civil Aviation Authority’s directive, Kathmandu to/from Lukla flight will operate via Ramechhap’s Manthali Airport during peak season time frame, which is between March-May and October -November. It is due to air traffic congestion at Tribhuvan International Airport.

Flight information from Manathali Airport: Ramechhap/Manthali Airport, located 132 km away from KTM. During the peak trekking months i.e., March, April, May, October, and November, you have to wake up early, approx. 2:00 am, travel to Manthali by shared tourist vehicle for about 3-4 hrs, followed by fly to Lukla, which takes 20 minutes around.

Off-Peak Season Flight Operations: During off-peak months—December, January, February, June, July, August, and September—flights to Lukla generally operate directly from Kathmandu. Travelers can depart later in the morning, around 5:00 to 6:00 AM, for a 30-minute drive to the domestic airport, followed by a 35-minute flight to Lukla.

We will handle all your transfer from Kathmandu to airport without any additional cost.

  1. Meals:Breakfast Included
  2. Accommodation:Hotel

After breakfast, we will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport about three hours before your flight. We hope you leave with unforgettable memories of Everest.

  1. Meals:Breakfast Included

Cost and Date

Start Dates refer to your arrival date in Nepal. End Dates correspond to your return date from Nepal.

The Everest Base Camp Short Trek set departure dates are tailored for the group joining option. If the 14 days Everest Base Camp Short Trek departure dates don’t fit your schedule, we can include alternative dates that better suit your needs.

    Cost Includes

    • All ground transports in private vehicles, including airport transfers
    • Two nights (twin sharing beds) accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu
    • Full board meals with tea/coffee (Breakfast, Lunch, and dinner) during the trek
    • Best available twin sharing lodge to lodge accommodation during the trek, we provide you attached bathroom with a hot shower at Lukla, Phakding, and Namche
    • One highly experienced, helpful, and friendly guide, porters (1 porter for 2 people), and their food, accommodation, salary, equipment, and accidental insurance for all staff
    • Round trip flight Kathmandu – Lukla, and Lukla – Kathmandu, including departure taxes
    • Duffle bag for the trekking
    • Down jacket and sleeping bag during the trek, if required
    • Nepal Hiking Team T-shirt, trekking map, and trip achievement certificate
    • First aid medical kit
    • Sagarmatha National Park Permits fee
    • TIMS Fee- Trekkers' Information Management System (Please bring 2 passport size photos for permit)
    • Government taxes and office service charge

    Cost Excludes

    • Meals not specified in the 'Meal Inclusions' in the itinerary.'
    • Travel Insurance
    • International airfare
    • Nepal entry visa: you can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. (a multiple-entry tourist visa good for 30 days can be obtained by paying US $ 40 or equivalent foreign currency. Similarly, multiple-entry tourist visas for 90 days can be obtained by paying US $ 100. Please bring 2 copies of passport-size photos.)
    • Cold Drinks Inc. coke, water, Fanta, etc.
    • Snacks and other personal expenses
    • Hot showers during the trek except for Phakding, Namche, and Lukla
    • Personal trekking equipment
    • WiFi internet during the trek
    • Tips and gratuities for trekking staff and drivers

    Everest Base Camp Short Trek Route Map

    Everest Base Camp Short Trek Map

    Everest Base Camp Short Trek Video

    Everest Base Camp Short Trek Faqs

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    Why Nepal Hiking Team

    • NHT is a trusted company with a 99% success rate. Most clients are repetitive due to our core values of transparency and honesty.
    • The company is run by co-founders Ganga Thapa and Balaram Thapa, with over three decades of professional and hands-on experience in the field.
    • The company has won the Travelers' Choice Trip Advisor Certificate.
    • NHT has been serving clients like family members since 2009.
    • The NHT professional trekking guides are trained by TAAN and NATHM and have 17+ years of experience.

    Here are 10 reasons why you should choose Nepal Hiking Team for the Short Everest Base Camp Trek.

    The group size for the Everest Base Camp Short Trek typically accommodates 2 to 10 people with us. Once your booking is confirmed, your trip is guaranteed, even if you are a solo traveler.

    Yes, you're welcome to join any group trek as a solo traveler. Even if no one else joins your chosen date, we'll still operate the Everest Base Camp Short trek at the solo traveler rate. All confirmed departures are guaranteed.

    Yes, we offer private treks for couples, families, friends, or groups. You'll enjoy flexible dates, personalized pacing, and a customized itinerary. For two or more people, pricing remains consistent with our group departures, crafted for convenience and exclusivity.

    The core trekking route is identical, but the 16-day itinerary includes two extra days in Kathmandu—one before and one after the trek.

    The 14-day package includes two nights in Kathmandu, with no prep or reserve days—ideal if you're short on time but still want to reach base camp.

    Arrival in Nepal and Visa process

    Yes, most travelers can get a visa on arrival in Kathmandu. Fill out the online form in advance, bring a passport valid for 6 months, and pay the fee by cash or card. Nationals of some countries must apply in advance. Indian citizens don't need a visa.

    A Nepal Hiking Team staff member will greet you at Tribhuvan International Airport, holding a sign with our name. If you don't see them, call our emergency numbers: +977-9851058678 (Ganga) or +977-9851058667 (Balaram).

    Important: Wait outside the arrival building and avoid accepting help from strangers—our staff will never ask for money.

    We usually book you at Woodapple Hotel and Spa or a similar 3-star hotel near Thamel. It's comfortable, well-located, and close to shops and restaurants. If you prefer a 4–5 star hotel, let us know—we'll gladly tailor your accommodation to your preference.

    Yes, you can. Extra nights at a 3-star hotel cost around USD 55 for a double/twin and USD 50 for a single, including breakfast and taxes. Confirm your dates, and we'll handle the rest.

    A member of NHT will give you a brief overview of the trip, introduce your guide, and walk you through the day-by-day itinerary.

    We'll provide essential trekking gear like a duffel bag, sleeping bag, down jacket, cap, T-shirt, and a map of the Everest region. You'll also receive updates on the route and weather. During the session, we'll collect your passport, insurance details, and settle any remaining balance.

    Booking and Payment

    Start by reviewing the itinerary on our website or requesting a customized version to match your preferences. Once it fits your needs, check availability and departure dates with us.

    To reserve, complete the booking form via the "Book Now" button or request a direct booking link. A 20% deposit confirms your spot; the balance is payable on arrival in Kathmandu—by card or in US dollars. You'll receive a secure payment link by email.

    If you cancel, email us and we'll handle the process. The 20% deposit is non-refundable but remains as full credit for any future trip—with no expiry. We recommend reviewing our full cancellation policy before booking.

    Transportation and Lukla flight information

    Only during the off-season, direct flights to Lukla are available. In peak months (late March–mid May & late Sept–Nov), flights to Lukla are rerouted through Ramechhap Airport due to congestion at Kathmandu. It's a 5-hour drive, and we arrange early morning transport—usually between 1:00–2:00 am from your hotel. Full details are provided at your pre-trek briefing.

    Yes, if you're on a private trip or if all group members agree, you can travel to Ramechhap the night before the flight. For standard group departures, we provide early morning shared transport from Kathmandu. If you'd prefer to go the night before, let us know—we'll adjust your hotel and schedule accordingly.

    If your flight is delayed or canceled due to weather, you can try flying the next day. Since there's no built-in buffer day in the itinerary, we strongly recommend adding at least one extra day in Kathmandu after the trek.

    If delays persist, you can choose a shared helicopter to Lukla, which costs around USD 450 per person, plus the guide's seat to keep the trek on schedule.

    Yes, you can choose a shared helicopter from Kathmandu to Lukla (or back) to avoid the long drive. It costs around USD 450 per person one way, with the regular flight fare adjusted. The group also shares the cost of the guide's seat. Advance notice is needed to arrange availability.

    The trek is moderately challenging, mainly due to altitude and daily walking hours—typically 6 to 7 hours a day. With good preparation, proper physical fitness, and pacing, it's very doable.

    The Short Everest Base Camp Trek covers about 130 km (80.8 miles) round trip, starting and ending in Lukla. You'll walk an average of 15 km (9.3 miles) per day, with daily distances ranging from 3 km to 19 km, depending on the terrain and altitude.

    There's no strict age limit—we've had trekkers as young as 4 and others in their 70s complete the route. The trail is well maintained, and beginners can absolutely take on the 14-day Short EBC Trek with the right preparation.

    Focus on building stamina and endurance with activities like hiking, jogging, or cycling a few months before your trek. Prior hiking experience is helpful but not required—if you're reasonably fit and follow your guide's pace, the journey is very achievable.

    For the preparation of Everest Short Trek, start getting all set at least a month in advance. Focus on cardio activities like hiking, brisk walking, cycling, or climbing stairs to build stamina. Try doing a long walk once a week—around 5 to 6 hours—with a backpack to simulate trek conditions.

    Include some basic strength and balance training, and if you can, hike on hilly or uneven trails. Most importantly, wear in your hiking boots before the trip to avoid blisters.

    Trekker's Well-Being & Safety

    Yes, safety is our top priority. Our licensed trekking leaders are trained in first aid and high-altitude rescue, and carry a first-aid kit, oximeter, and communication device to monitor your health throughout the trek.

    We follow a well-paced itinerary with two acclimatization days to reduce altitude risks. If needed, we adjust the pace, rest, or descend. In serious cases, we organize a helicopter evacuation to Kathmandu.

    We also pre-select clean, hygienic tea houses, safe drinking water, and maintain 24/7 contact with our office team for quick coordination. You're in expert hands every step of the way.

    Yes, you must have travel insurance when you are trekking in Nepal. Even though you've prepared well for the EBC Trek, you may encounter situations where you'll need to use it. Ensure you have it before arriving in Nepal, and it covers your trek's maximum altitude with an emergency helicopter evacuation.

    The trail is open year-round, but the best times are spring (March, April, and May) and autumn (September, October, and November) when the skies are clear, temperatures are moderate, and conditions are ideal for trekking.

    The upside of trekking in winter or summer is fewer crowds and direct flights to Lukla from Kathmandu, avoiding the drive to Ramechhap.

    Vaccines are not mandatory, but standard travel vaccines like hepatitis A/B, typhoid, and tetanus are recommended. Some trekkers also consider a rabies vaccine as a precaution, since the trail passes through villages with stray dogs.

    Inform your guide immediately if you feel symptoms of AMS like headache, nausea, dizziness, or shortness of breath. They'll assess your condition and may suggest rest, medication (like Diamox), or descending to a lower altitude.

    Our guides monitor oxygen levels regularly with an oximeter to catch symptoms early and ensure your safety.

    Yes, the Short Everest Base Camp itinerary includes two acclimatization days—one in Namche Bazaar and one in Dingboche. These rest days include short hikes to higher points and return to lower altitudes to advance your body adjust gradually and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

    Trekking Gear

    You should pack depending on the season you choose to trek in Nepal. Make sure you don't pack unnecessarily, and please review this link general checklist for the equipment checklist.

    We offer a down jacket, duffle bag, and sleeping bag as complimentary items for the trek, which must be returned after the trip. So, you don't need to rent or buy them.

    Yes, we provide a porter for every two trekkers. Each porter carries up to 25 kg total, which means around 12–13 kg per person for your main duffel bag.

    You'll carry a light daypack (20–22L) with essentials like water, snacks, a jacket, passport, and personal items needed during the day. Please pack mindfully to stay within the weight limit.

    The baggage allowance for Lukla's flight is 15 kg max per passenger, which includes the pack for the porter and your day pack. Please note that during the trek the weight limit for a porter is 25 kg for two trekkers.

    Yes, you can leave your luggage in the hotel when you're on the trek. You can have it back after returning from the trek.

    Accommodation and Connectivity

    You'll stay in twin-sharing accommodations, which are basic but clean and comfortable. Rooms come with proper beds, warm bedding, and simple furnishings.

    In lower villages like Lukla, Phakding, and Namche, some lodges offer private bathrooms with hot showers. Higher up, expect shared toilets and more limited facilities due to the remote location.

    Yes, Wi-Fi and mobile connectivity are available along the route, but both can be spotty and slow, especially at higher altitudes.

    Wi-Fi is offered at most teahouses for a small fee, and mobile networks like Ncell and NTC work well in lower areas like Lukla and Namche. Coverage becomes limited as you trek higher.

    Yes, you can stay overnight at Everest Base Camp with a private trek (minimum two people). It requires one extra day and costs USD 450 per person, including meals, permits, and tented accommodation arranged by an expedition team.

    However, we generally don't recommend it due to the high altitude (5,364m) and the risk of altitude sickness. The glacial terrain also makes emergency descents difficult at night if symptoms occur.

    Yes, Western-style toilets are available in most teahouses, especially in lower vills like Lukla, Phakding, and Namche.

    As you go higher, facilities become more basic, and some lodges may have squat toilets instead. In winter, due to frozen pipes, squat toilets are more common at higher elevations.

    Meals and Drinks

    On the Everest Base Camp short trek, you'll find a mix of Nepali and Western food options in the teahouses along the trail that you can choose from menu. The staple is dal bhat, a hearty meal of rice, lentil soup, and vegetable curry, often with free refills.

    Other popular choices include Tibetan bread, momos (dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), and various types of porridge. You can also find Western-style dishes like pasta, pizza, and sandwiches, but be aware that the quality may vary at higher altitudes.

    Yes, you'll find vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options at most teahouses along the route. Nepali meals like dal bhat are naturally plant-based and easy to adapt.

    If you have definite dietary needs or allergies, let us know in ahead of time, and we'll coordinate with the lodges to make sure you're well taken care of.

    Yes, drinking water is available as we journeyed to Everest Base Camp. While you should avoid untreated water from rivers or streams, you can request boiled water at teahouses (for a small fee).

    To reduce plastic waste (bottled water), we recommend using refillable bottles. Our guides always carry water purification tablets, so you can safely refill from local sources along the way.

    Customization: Group Vs Private

    Yes, we present full customization based on your choice. Whether you want a more ephemeral or longer trek, a distinct route (like via Salleri or High Passes), luxury advancements, or a helicopter return, we can adjust the itinerary to harmonize your style, pace, and interests.

    Yes, you can extend your trek to include Gokyo Lakes by adding about three extra days. This route offers quieter trails, glacier sights, and stunning views. For added challenge, you can also opt for the Everest High Passes route, which includes Gokyo and crosses Cho La Pass.

    Tipping is not mandatory, but it's a widely appreciated gesture in Nepali trekking culture. Your guide and porter play a big role in your Short Everest Base Trek experience—helping you through both the highlights and challenges of the trek.

    If you're happy with their service, a tip is a meaningful way to show your gratitude.

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