Do you really know what Everest Base Camp trek is about? It is not just a trekking trip. Instead, its a journey over historic Himalayan trails that reveals a new scenery of now-capped peaks with every turn you take. It is where fluttering prayer flags maintain peace in a chilling atmosphere and friendly Sherpas treat guests as divine. Putting it simply, Everest Base Camp trek is an entire journey full of adventure, culture, and breathtaking landscapes and of course one of the most beautiful treks in Nepal.
Everest Base Camp can be reached in several ways. Some choose a longer version of 14–16 days with multiple side hikes and rest days. While there are also others who try shorter alternatives in 10 days or less. But in practice, the 12-day Everest Base Camp trek works best. This is carefully balanced, giving enough time for acclimatization. This will keep the trekking distance appropriate and also cover all highlights along the trail.
The journey starts with a thrilling Kathmandu to Lukla flight. It gradually takes you to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) via Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche and Gorak Shep. The excitement and adventure reach their peak when trekkers visit Kala Patthar (5,545 m) for an optimal close-up view of Mount Everest.
Overall, the 12-day Everest Base Camp itinerary gives you the right mix of challenge and comfort. The risk of altitude sickness is very less when compared to shorter versions. And when compared to longer versions, it saves time without missing the key highlights. This is why most trekkers consider this the best option.
Everest Base Camp 12 Days Itinerary Outline
- Day 1: Fly to Lukla (2,860 m) and trek to Phakding (2,640 m); a short 8 km hike taking around 3–4 hours.
- Day 2: Trek from Phakding (2,640 m) to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m); 10.5 km trail taking 6–7 hours.
- Day 3: Acclimatization day in Namche with a scenic hike to Hotel Everest View (3,880 m); 4–5 hours walk covering 5–7 km.
- Day 4: Journey from Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) to Tengboche (3,875 m); expect 5–6 hours of trekking across 9 km.
- Day 5: Continue from Tengboche (3,875 m) to Dingboche (4,360 m); a steady 9 km trail that takes about 5–6 hours.
- Day 6: Rest and acclimatization at Dingboche with an uphill hike to Nangkartshang Hill (5,083 m); around 4–5 km distance in 4–5 hours.
- Day 7: Trek from Dingboche (4,360 m) to Lobuche (4,910 m); the 11 km route takes roughly 5–6 hours.
- Day 8: Move from Lobuche (4,910 m) to Gorakshep (5,180 m) and hike further to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m); 9 km journey completed in 6–7 hours.
- Day 9: Early morning ascent to Kala Patthar (5,545 m) for sunrise views, then descend to Pheriche (4,371 m); about 10 km taking 7–8 hours.
- Day 10: Trek from Pheriche (4,371 m) back to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m); a long 19.5 km trail that usually takes 7–8 hours.
- Day 11: Continue from Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) to Lukla (2,860 m); around 19 km walk requiring 7–8 hours.
- Day 12: Scenic 30-minute flight from Lukla to Kathmandu (1,400 m), covering 138 km by air.Day 1: Fly to Lukla (2,860 m) and trek to Phakding (2,640 m); a short 8 km hike taking around 3–4 hours.
Detailed Itinerary of Everest Base Camp Trek- 12 Days
Day 1: Kathmandu to Lukla And Lukla to Phakding
Kathmandu Altitude: 1,400 m / 4,593 ft
Lukla Altitude: 2,860 m / 9,380.8 ft
Flight Time: 30 min
Phakding Altitude: 2,640 m / 8,824.5 ft
Trek Distance: 8 km
Trek Duration: 3–4 hours
Your exciting Everest Base Camp Trek starts with a short but beautiful flight from Kathmandu today to Lukla. Lukla is known as the entrance to the Everest Region. Flights usually take about 30 minutes and offer fantastic views of peaks and valleys. Lukla has one of the most thrilling airports in the world, which you will quickly feel while landing.
From there, you immediately start walking toward Phakding. Hikers follow a gentle and gradual trail alongside the Dudh Koshi River. You will have constant opportunities to admire flowing water and small villages along the way. The distance is about 8 km which usually takes 3–4 hours. This makes it an ideal acclimatization day.
Along the footpath, you will pass attractive Sherpa villages, small monasteries, and local tea houses. There you can stop for refreshments.
Overall, this day is all about letting your body adapt to high altitude while comfortably enjoying amazing Himalayan scenery. In the evening, you will relax and enjoy your first night in mountains. Now is the time to prepare mentally for more challenging days ahead.
Day 2: Phakding to Namche Bazaar
Phakding Altitude: 2,640 m / 8,824.5 ft
Namche Bazaar Altitude: 3,440 m / 11,455.2 ft
Trek Distance: 10.5 km
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
You excitedly start trekking from Phakding to Namche Bazaar on the second day of your Everest Base Camp trek. This moderately challenging trek takes you about 6–7 hours to cover 10.5 km.
Small villages, lush forests and suspension bridges over Dudh Koshi River give a scenic view. And the towering Himalayan peaks, including Thamserku and Kusum Kanguru, appear stunningly close.
As you steadily climb, risks of altitude sickness also increase. So it is important to walk slowly and breathe deeply. You may also occasionally meet trekkers returning from the trek. Talking with them about the experience creates a pleasant and lively atmosphere on the trail.
Namche Bazaar is the main Sherpa town in Everest region. That’s why finding cozy lodges and local teahouses is easy. This town is perfectly suited for acclimatization, and its bustling markets give you a quick glimpse of local culture.
Day 3: Acclimatization in Namche Bazaar, Hike to Hotel Everest View
Namche Bazaar Altitude: 3,440 m / 11,455.2 ft
Hotel Everest View Altitude: 3,880 m / 12,730 ft
Trek Distance: 5–7 km
Trek Duration: 4–5 hours
Third day is an acclimatization day. Staying a day in Namche Bazaar lets your body gently adapt to a higher altitude. Moreover, you’ll also go for a short hike to Hotel Everest View.
To reach this hotel, you have to cover a 5–7 km small hike. Doing so will require around 2–3 hours. The trail climbs slowly and provides constant fantastic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse and Ama Dablam.
Along the way, you will easily notice local Sherpa villages, prayer flags, and small tea houses. They are ideal stop for refreshments. Take pictures and enjoy the atmosphere of the peaceful Himalayas.
Till afternoon, you’ll be back in Namche Bazaar. Now, you can relax calmly in your cabin or explore the lively city. This day carefully prepares your body for the upcoming challenging trekking days, helping you avoid altitude sickness.
Day 4: Namche Bazaar to Tengboche
Namche Bazaar Altitude: 3,440 m / 12,853.8 ft
Tengboche Altitude: 3,875 m / 12,853.8 ft
Trek Distance: 9 km
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Today’s journey spans 9 kilometers and requires 5 to 6 hours to complete. It slowly takes you higher and offers fantastic views all the way. Ama Dablam and other Himalayan peaks shine brilliantly over the valley and you will often stop to admire their fantastic scenes.
Tengboche is known for its monastery, one of the largest and most revered in the region. Explore it carefully and observe monks and their pleasing prayer rituals silently. The village is peaceful, providing opportunities for stunning views and photographs.
This day is especially important because you’ll acclimate gradually while continuing your trek. Trekkers will find a combination of cultural experience and natural beauty on this day. And this makes it a truly memorable day.
Day 5: Tengboche to Dingboche
Tengboche Altitude: 3,875 m / 12,853.8 ft
Dingboche Altitude: 4,360 m / 14,468 ft
Trek Distance: 9 km
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Wake up early on the 5th day of your Everest Base Camp Trek. You are about to leave Tengboche and trek to Dingboche. Today’s walking distance is about 9 km. And normally, it takes trekkers 5–6 hours to reach there.
This trail climbs slowly and is surprisingly beautiful, passing through sparse forests, rocky landscapes, and small Sherpa villages. You will often stop to admire the huge peaks including Ama Dablam and Lhotse, which stand impressively over the valley.
In the path, trekkers can sometimes see herds of yaks grazing on high pastures. This is a true Himalayan experience anyone can feel. Dingboche Village is peaceful and perfectly suited for acclimatization before going to higher altitudes.
Upon arrival, relax in the tea house, enjoy warm meals, and carefully prepare for the next day’s acclimatization hike to Nangkartshang Hill.
Day 6: Acclimatization at Dingboche, Hike to Nangkartshang Hill
Dingboche Altitude: 4,360 m / 14,468 ft
Nangkartshang Hill Altitude: 5,083 m / 16,680 ft
Trek Distance: 4–5 km
Trek Duration: 4–5 hours
The sixth day in your Everest Base Camp Trek itinerary serves as a crucial acclimatization day. Residing in Dingboche allows your body’s progressive adaptation to increasing altitude. You will take a short trek of 4–5 km to Nangkartshang Hill, which usually takes 4–5 hours round trip. This is a steep but rewarding trek, offering constant opportunities to admire Ama Dablam, Makalu, and other towering Himalayan peaks.
This hike is incredibly useful for preparing your body for higher altitudes and also provides breathtaking views of the Imja Valley. Climb slowly, enjoying the scenery and reducing risk of altitude sickness.
After returning to Dingboche, hikers often spend the afternoon at ease—exploring the village, chatting warmly with locals, or simply resting in their tea house. This day plays a key role in ensuring a safe and comfortable journey toward Everest Base Camp.
Day 7: Dingboche to Lobuche
Dingboche Altitude: 4,360 m / 14,468 ft
Lobuche Altitude: 4,910 m / 16,108 ft
Trek Distance: 11 km
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
You will ascend through a steep path from Dingboche to Lobuche on the seventh day of your Everest Base Camp Trek. The distance is about 11 km and usually takes 5–6 hours.
Climbing to Lobuche is a bit challenging. Alpine meadows, stone walls, and glacial moraines are crossed on the way. Notice how the vegetation becomes thinner as you go higher, reminding you of increasing altitude.
Next, trekkers will slowly cross the Dhugla Pass, where they can see monuments made in honor of climbers who lost their lives on Everest. This part of journey is emotional and gives deep meaning to the trek.
When you reach Lobuche, you will enjoy distant views of Khumbu Glacier and huge peaks like Pumori and Nuptse. The village of Lobuche is small but welcoming, offering comfortable tea houses where trekkers can rest warmly before the big adventure to Everest Base Camp.
Day 8: Lobuche to Gorakshep and Everest Base Camp
Lobuche Altitude: 4,910 m / 16,108 ft
Gorakshep Altitude: 5,180 m / 17,028 ft
Everest Base Camp Altitude: 5,364 m / 17,598 ft
Trek Distance: 9 km
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Day 8 marks a very exhilarating day of your Everest Base Camp Trek. You will continue your journey from Lobche to Gorak Shep. And finally, you’ll reach the Base Camp before the end of the day. The distance from Lobuche to Gorak Shep is 9 km and usually takes 6–7 hours.
The path is rocky, steep, and demanding, but it is also incredibly rewarding. You will slowly follow the edge of the Khumbu Glacier, which winds through moraine and icy landscapes that look dramatically attractive.
Before Everest Base Camp, the last settlement is Gorak Shep. You can rest here briefly and then continue to base camp with enthusiasm. At last, when you reach Everest Base Camp, you’ll get soaked in every moment. Standing here is an unforgettable achievement. Even if you cannot see the Everest summit directly from the base camp, the experience is truly magical. Take photos and celebrate this prestigious destination before returning to Gorak Shep for the night.
Day 9: Hike to Kala Patthar and Descend to Pheriche
Kala Patthar Altitude: 5,545 m / 18,192 ft
Pheriche Altitude: 4,371 m / 14,336.8 ft
Trek Distance: 10 km
Trek Duration: 7–8 hours
This day of your Everest Base Camp Trek is very special. You will hurry in the morning from Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar to enjoy the best panoramic scenes of Mount Everest and Lhotse. The distance to the return is 10 km. It usually takes 7–8 hours, which includes Pheriche.
Climbing Kala Patthar is challenging, but incredibly rewarding as well. The sun over the Himalaya creates dramatic scenes. Ascending slowly with frequent breaks is ultimate tip of this day because you need to catch your breath and also admire the amazing scenes.
Reaching Kala Patthar is almost like reaching a summit because the views are so amazing that they would evoke pride in anyone. Then, you will slowly get back to Pheriche. The trail is peaceful and calm, passing high ridges and small cabins and providing a real Himalayan trekking experience.
By reaching Pheriche, you can relax in a teahouse, enjoy local food warmly, and reflect on the extraordinary sights you saw today. This day is truly unforgettable and captures the essence of Everest Base Camp Trek.
Day 10: Pheriche to Namche Bazaar
Pheriche Altitude: 4,371 m / 14,336.8 ft
Namche Bazaar Altitude: 3,440 m / 11,455.2 ft
Trek Distance: 19.5 km
Trek Duration: 7–8 hours
This day is the time to go down from Pheriche to Namche Bazaar. The distance of today’s trek is 19.5 km, which usually takes 7–8 hours. Trekkers walk mostly downhill and relatively simple path, so you can walk steadily and comfortably. Take a break to enjoy the fantastic mountain view and observe local Sherpa villages along this Everest trekking route.
As you go down, vegetation gradually becomes dense, making a pleasant journey with forests, streams, and traditional stone houses. You will cross suspension bridges carefully and meet trekkers on the way heading in the opposite direction.
When you arrive at Namche Bazaar, you can relax fully, explore the lively market, and celebrate the descent after high-altitude days. This day is perfect for improvement, while still enjoying the beautiful Himalaya landscapes.
Day 11: Namche Bazaar to Lukla
Namche Bazaar Altitude: 3,440 m / 11,455.2 ft
Lukla Altitude: 2,860 m / 9,380.8 ft
Trek Distance: 19 km
Trek Duration: 7–8 hours
This is the eleventh day and today you will descend from Namche Bazaar to Lukla. The distance to walk is 19 km, which usually takes 7–8 hours.
You can walk easily today in comparison to other days because it has easy descents. This return journey also provides fresh views of the huge Himalayas, which you can enjoy. The Sherpa villages, small tea houses, and green forests all make this trek pleasant.
As you descend, mountain landscapes gradually transform into lower, lush valleys, giving a refreshing change after hiking at high altitude. By reaching Lukla, you can relax in the teahouse and enjoy the Himalayan food. Celebrate the moments with your trekking team. This day is perfect for capturing reflections and final memorable images before your flight.
Day 12: Lukla to Kathmandu
Lukla Altitude: 2,860 m / 9,380.8 ft
Kathmandu Altitude: 1,400 m / 4,593 ft
Flight Distance: 138 km
Flight Duration: 30 min
This is the last day of your Everest Base Camp Trek. It’s again time to take a beautiful Lukla to Kathmandu flight over the Himalayas. The flight distance is 138 km and as before, it will take about 30 minutes.
Once again, the flight is remarkable. This is your second chance to capture those fantastic aerial scenes of snowy peaks and deep valleys. Be seated on window side and observe the Himalayas enthusiastically.
Reaching Kathmandu officially marks the end of your journey. Now you can relax completely in a comfortable hotel and celebrate the successful execution of your Everest Base Camp trek. This is a day for resting and reflection.
In this way, your journey to the greatest Himalayan trekking destination comes to an end. However, maintain the adventurous soul and get back to Nepal soon on another trekking journey.
