Everest Base Camp Trek By Road (Without Flight)

Everest Base Camp Trek By Road (Without Lukla Flight) - 16 Days
  • Duration 16 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • Max. Altitude 5,545 m (18,192 ft)
  • Trip Start Kathmandu
  • Trip End 5,545 m (18,192 ft).
  • Trip Area Everest Region
  • Nature of Trip Trekking and Touring By Road
  • Major Activities Reach EBC, Kala Patthar Hike
  • Best Season Autumn and Spring

Introduction to Everest Base Camp Trek By Road (Without Flight) Trip

The Everest Base Camp Trek by Road is an exciting option if you want to trek to the Himalayas without taking a flight to Lukla. The land journey begins with a scenic road trip from Kathmandu to Salleri or Phaplu by jeep, bypassing the infamous Lukla flight and enjoying the beauty of Nepal’s varied landscapes. Adventure Altitude Treks organizes this trip for those who seek a budget-friendly, flexible Everest Base Camp Trek By Road 16 Days journey. This old route without Lukla Flight takes you through breathtaking trails passing through Sherpa villages, dense rhododendron forests, and rough terrains on your way up, offering panoramic views of Mount Everest and other surrounding peaks. 

The itinerary usually lasts from 14-16 days, including both road travel and Multi-day Trekking in the Everst region’s high alpine terrain. Attractions include vibrant Namche Bazaar (the Sherpa capital), Tengboche Monastery, and finally reaching our second destination Kala Patthar hike by short hike after reaching EBC itself. A short hike up nearby Kala Patthar offers stunning sunrise panoramas of the entire Himalayan Range.

By choosing the Everest Trekking by Road, you’ll begin on an adventurous road trip from Kathmandu and avoid the hassles and uncertainties associated with flights to Lukla. The expense is usually less than standard EBC trekking packages, so that’s another reason why it appeals to backpackers on a budget. You get enough time to acclimatize at lower altitudes thereby lowering your risks of getting altitude sickness. Without Lukla Flight to EBC Trip also packed with adventure and cultural insights since you get plenty of time to interact with locals and explore off-the-beaten tracks along the way, too. This package is perfectly balanced with jeep rides, challenging hikes as well and scenic breaks in between. 

Highlights of Everest Trek By Road

  • Overland journey from Kathmandu to Everest Base Camp via jeep and trails.
  • Don’t take a flight to Lukla and enjoy the road trip view.
  • Reach places like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche Monastery, Kala Patthar.
  • Flexible itineraries of 14 to 16 days of trekking and driving

Benefits on Everest Base Camp Trek By Road - 16 days With Adventure Altitude Treks

  • Your adventure starts with a picturesque jeep drive from Kathmandu. 
  • Flexible trekking schedules (14 days or 16 days options) designed to match any time of the year.
  • Professional guides have oximeters to keep a check on the oxygen levels of trekkers. Comprehensive medical kits are kept handy for safety during the trek.
  • Detailed trail maps and itineraries will be provided so you can find your way.
  • Private vehicles will be arranged to pick up the group at the start and finish of the trip.
  • Affordable group rates and value-for-money deals. 
  • Emergency helicopter rescue evacuation with insured help.
  • Sim cards are provided in order to have connectivity during the trek.
  • Trekking gear like down jackets and caps can be availed if needed.

EBC Trek Without Lukla Flight: Why To To Choose?

Trekking the Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek without Lukla flight comes with a lot of benefits. The primary benefit is being free from any kind of hassle due to unpredictable weather, which is often prone to delay flights to Lukla for a long period. Moreover, this overland route lets you gain altitude gradually and you have better chances of acclimatization along your trail, hence less chances of getting altitude sickness. Starting your trek from the lower sections such as Jiri or Salleri not only allows you to enjoy varied culture, landscapes and exotic villages lying at the lap of mountains in the Lower Eastern part of Khumbu but also gives you more time to acclimatize to these higher regions before making long ascents towards mountainous terrains aspiring through highs passes. 

Hiking To Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar in Nepal Without/With a Guide

Hiking to Everest Base Camp (EBC) and Kala Patthar is an experience worth doing whether you have a guide or not. A guide can help you with navigation, educate you about the local culture, and help prevent or manage altitude sickness. Most guided treks come with a formal itinerary and porters that make it easy for travellers as someone else is taking care of all the logistics, which allows you to be present during your trek. Typical prices for guided treks range from $1,500-$3,000, depending on who you go with​.

Trekking independently on Kathmandu to Everest Base Camp by Jeep will save you cash, bringing costs down as low as $500-$800 (not including flights). But this option includes arranging TIMS cards permit, finding accommodation on your own and independent trekkers are at higher risk without having anyone to watch their back when Altitude Sickness mixed strikes. Travelling independently Also does not allow access to expert advice on cultural learning while hiking Kala Pathar 5,554 meters.

Overland Trek to Everest Base Camp Cost 2025 and 2026

The cost for the Overland Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek in 2025 and 2026 will be dependent on factors such as group size, package inclusions and operator. Generally, prices of trekking packages can vary from $1,050 - $1,800 per person. Costs differ based on services provided by the operator, including guide and porter support, accommodation, meals and transportation options, i.e. jeep rides instead of flights to Lukla.​ The other costs to consider will be travel Insurance (mandatory for high-altitude trekking) and gear rental if needed. There will be no flight risk involved in choosing overland routes, but there will be additional logistics required for the overland drive to Lukla or any other trek starting points.

Alternative Treks to Off The Road Track: Everest Base Camp Trekking By Road

Itinerary
Expand AllCollapse All

  • AccommodationTeahouses
  • Altitude/TimeFree Day

On the first day of the Everest Base Camp Trek by road, you will arrive at Kathmandu. It is the point from which your Everest adventure begins. Upon arriving in Kathmandu Valley, you will be escorted to your hotel for rest. After that, you can take a walk around this culture, history, and spirituality-filled city. You can also explore some UNESCO World Heritage Sites here, such as Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) Pashupatinath, and Kathmandu Durbar Square.

Today, you will either rest at your hotel or explore what this vibrant city has to offer. You will get the opportunity to walk down the colourful streets of Thamel-the locale most famous for brilliant shops, trekking gear outlets, and restaurants. Also, try to sample the local Nepalese dishes, such as momos and dal bhat. Then, prepare yourselves once again, for tomorrow, your drive will be much closer to the gigantic Himalayas. The first night will be spent in a comfortable hotel in Kathmandu featuring a hot shower and personal bedroom with an attached bathroom.

  • AccommodationTeahouses
  • MealsBreakfast- Lunch- Dinner
  • Altitude/Time3 to 14 hours

The second day of the Everest Base Camp Trek by Road starts with a scenic jeep drive from Kathmandu to Thamdanda, a rural settlement in the Solukhumbu area. The roads take you through green hills and terraced fields in front of rivers and cascading waterfalls with glimpses of traditional villages. This is a drive that takes you most of the way through towns like Dhulikhel and Jiri, the most aptly called Switzerland of Nepal, for its stunning landscapes. 

You will find it a little rugged and a narrow road as you approach Thamdanda. It is just the beginning, however, to give you a taste of adventure. You will witness the diverse climatic changes associated with rising elevation. As you reach Thamdanda, you will settle into the local tea house which is needed for resting before starting the adventure ahead.

  • AccommodationTeahouses
  • MealsBreakfast- Lunch- Dinner
  • Altitude/Time7 to 8 hours

The third day of the trek brings you to an entrance of the Everest Region; Phakding. This hike from Thamdanda to Phakding takes around 7 hours to complete. This stretch is a great mixture of lush forests, suspension bridges, and traditional Sherpa villages. The Buddhist prayer wheels, mani walls engraved with sacred scripted words, and fluttering prayer flags give you the vibes of ancient Tibetan Buddhism along the trail. 

The trail is of moderate difficulty, with some quite steep parts, but just the incredible views of Dudh Koshi River and other surrounding hills keep you inspired. Phakding is a quiet riverside village where trekkers acclimatize and rest. The tea houses here are warm, and they provide hearty meals and warm hosts. You will stay tonight at a tea house in Phakding as you prepare for the ascent to Namche Bazaar.

  • AccommodationTeahouses
  • MealsBreakfast- Lunch- Dinner
  • Altitude/Time5 to 6 hours

Today's climb is certainly a trek that brings you to Namche Bazaar, the very heart of the Khumbu area. This ascent is almost actually an uphill walk along the initial trails as you enter the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sagarmatha National Park. A beautiful stretch into the Dudh Koshi River on the way with beautiful suspension bridges dotted with prayer flags gives you a peaceful ambiance during this hike. As one climbs up, the green carpets of the pine forests reveal interspersed glimpses of the stunning snow-capped peaks, building an anticipation of what is in for the upper altitudes.

Halfway up Monjo, the entry to Sagarmatha National Park and the checking of permits takes place. If you do not have obtained trekking permits for the Everest Region, you can get them here at Monjo Check post. Then, you will hike for a few hours to reach Jorsalle, another Sherpa village on the way. After Jorsalle, the trail becomes extremely steep, bringing about a challenging effort to go up "Namche Bazaar." Your effort will surely be compensated when you see Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse from that windy view.

The bustling town of Namche, with its array of Sherpa market stalls, tea houses, and views over the Himalayas, now awaits you. You will stay tonight at a hotel in Namche Bazaar.

  • AccommodationTeahouses
  • MealsBreakfast- Lunch- Dinner
  • Altitude/TimeFree Day

Today is set for rest and acclimatization in Namche Bazaar, but it doesn't mean lazing around. Today indicates short hikes and long acclimatization for climbing higher altitudes. Most of the trekkers take a hike to the famous Everest View Hotel to have incredible views of Everest mountain and its counterparts. This trek will allow you to be in touch with nature whilst soaking in tranquil views and hiking slowly over pine forests and ridges.

After exploring around and getting back again in Namche, you can visit the Sherpa Culture Museum and Hillary School, spending time in the heritage of the place. There are several bakeries, shops, and trekking gear stores. Maybe you can restock some supplies or indulge in tasty little treats, like locally baked pastries.

The evenings in Namche are often friendly and bright, spent with other trekkers or around a fire at the teahouse, having hot food. This day is key in terms of acclimatizing to thinner air for the journey ahead.

  • AccommodationTeahouses
  • MealsBreakfast- Lunch- Dinner
  • Altitude/Time5 to 6 hours

Today’s trek to Tengboche gives you your first close-up views of Everest, Ama Dablam and Thamserku. The walk starts easy, undulating up and down on ridges, through juniper and rhododendron forests and across streams that sparkle in the sunlight like diamonds. After crossing Phunki Tenga and ascending even steeper through pinching switchbacks, you’ll start to find it a bit tougher, not only because of the altitude but mostly because of the actual magnificence that is everywhere when looking ahead. As you get nearer to Tengboche, you will see a picturesque view of the largest monastery in Khumbu, built-in 1916 by Lama Gulu, with its gompa notably perched against some stupendous pinnacles. Overnight stay at Tengboche enveloped by Tibetan Buddhism.

  • AccommodationTeahouses
  • MealsBreakfast- Lunch- Dinner
  • Altitude/Time5 to 6 hours

On the seventh day of the Everest Base Camp Trek by Road, you will hike deeper into the Everest region. It is a trek with pretty landscapes and challenging trails taking you from Tengboche to Dingboche. You start with a long descent into the bright forest of rhododendrons, and then you have river crossings and expanses of open valleys ahead. Deboche and Pangboche are some of the small settlements situated along your journey, where you can see the traditional homes and the prayer wheels that add a whole new side to the trip. 

The trail climbs gradually above the forest, where the landscape turns more sparse, resembling an alpine environment. From here, the scene of Ama Dablam becomes more prevalent with a pyramid-shaped profile. A final uphill stretch will take you to Dingboche, a quiet village standing in the middle of fields enclosed with stone walls to protect crops from wind and grazing animals after crossing the Imja Khola River.

During this journey, you can catch some of the breathtaking views Dingboche offers of beautiful peaks like Lhotse, Island Peak, and the Chhukung Valley. In the evening, you will check into a local house and rest, enjoying local food and acclimatizing.

  • AccommodationTeahouses
  • MealsBreakfast- Lunch- Dinner
  • Altitude/TimeFree day

The eighth day again brings back the rest and acclimatization activities in Dingboche. And it is going to be very vital for your body in order for it to prepare itself for breathing amid high altitudes. The most common activity here is the hike to Nagarjun Hill, which rises to about 5100 meters. This steep ascent promises you some of the finest views of the greatness of Makalu, Lhotse, and the surrounding snow-capped peaks while competing with your endurance. 

At Dingboche, you will appreciate the beauty of a high-altitude environment. The village is located in a glacial valley, and the terrain is covered by moraines and rocky outcrops. The fields enclosed by stone walls are a testament to the resourcefulness of Sherpa farmers who grow potatoes and barley here in spite of the altitude.

For the rest of the day, you will be free to rest during your leisurely tour, exploring the village and mixing with other trekkers. This is the most important acclimatization stop to minimize the risks of altitude sickness and prepare your body for tougher climbs ahead.

  • AccommodationTeahouses
  • MealsBreakfast- Lunch- Dinner
  • Altitude/Time5 to 6 hours

Today, the trek takes you deeper into the Himalayan landscapes when you travel from Dingboche to Lobuche. The start of the trail gently flows along the Khumbu Glacier, giving you a breathtaking view of spectacular peaks such as Cholatse and Taboche. The ascent becomes steeper, taking you closer to Thukla, where most trekkers will have lunch before summoning their last reserves for an incredible climb. There are stone piles in memory of climbers who perished on attempting to climb Everest with a commemorative plaque and thousands of prayer flags attached to them. The path beyond the peak is flatter as it leads out of Lobuche ( meaning 'many cows'). Overnight stay at Local Tea House at Lobuche.

  • AccommodationTeahouses
  • MealsBreakfast- Lunch- Dinner
  • Altitude/Time5 to 6 hours

The first phase of the Everest Base Camp Trek by road will be completed today. You will wake up early in the morning and set for a long journey from Lobuche to Gorak Shep first. It will be a trek for the last settlement before continuing the Everest Base Camp trek. The trail consists of rocky terrain and glacial moraine as you move along. In this very part of the journey, the famed Khumbu Glacier accompanies you, along with other gigantic, majestic and inspiring peaks, such as Pumori and Nuptse, which grow closer to you over time.

At Gorak Shep, there will be a brief stopover for rest and to refuel before continuing to Everest Base Camp. The rocky trail along the glacier is more than most. Standing above the threshold of Everest Base Camp becomes a landmark moment. From here, one can see the magnificent Khumbu Icefall and feel the sheer enormity of Everest looming above.

After all that sight of unbelievable scenery and celebrating the day, the trek would lead back to Gorak Shep for the night. You will check into a local tea house after a long, exhausting hike to Everest Base Camp.

  • AccommodationTeahouses
  • MealsBreakfast- Lunch- Dinner
  • Altitude/Time4 to 5 hours

This day starts with a trek before dawn up to Kala Patthar, which is one of the finest viewpoints in the inviting Himalayan Everest region. The ascent is not easy; rather it is steep and challenging, but results will bring unmatched reward. Reaching Kala Patthar during sunrise opens the majestic view of Everest, Nuptse as well as other towering peaks glistening with the warm morning light. At 5555m, this is the highest point of the trek for a quiet moment in awe of the lap of the tallest mountains in the world.

After breakfast at Gorak Shep, you will start a descent back to Pheriche, where you're going to start noticing changes in landscapes and surroundings. The scenery changes along the way, with lush vegetation reappearing as stark alpine terrain falls behind.

At Pheriche, there is an HRA center, which is a medical center for treating altitude sickness and other altitude-related health hazards. You will stay overnight at a tea house.

  • AccommodationTeahouses
  • MealsBreakfast- Lunch- Dinner
  • Altitude/Time7 to 8 hours

Day 12 of the Everest Base Camp Trek by road is a long but wonderful descent from Pheriche to Namche Bazaar. As you descend, you will retrace your footsteps from the Imja Valley, crossing suspension bridges and cutting through Sherpa villages like Pangboche and Tengboche. After this long return journey, you will realize all the things you have missed out on recognizing during your ascent, such as landmarks in the form of chortens and mani walls, as well as some spectacular views of Ama Dablam.

While passing through Tengboche, it can be a stopover to visit the famous monastery, wherein trekkers usually stop to give thanks for a successful journey. This last trek to Namche Bazaar is characterized by an uphill and downhill climb, so you should better prepare with your physical fitness for this phase.

Walking into Namche feels like walking into a home. Namche Bazaar is a very lively town with cafes, bakeries, and hotels, which feels like a nice treat after spending some days in cramped, remote mountains. Overnight, you will celebrate the completion of your trek and stay at a hotel.

  • AccommodationTeahouses
  • MealsBreakfast- Lunch- Dinner
  • Altitude/Time6 to 7 hours

Today, the slow descent takes you from Namche Bazaar into Chaurikharka, marking the beginning of a return journey toward Kathmandu. There are little traces of the usual Sherpa town bustling, and one will find his walk in small, quieter areas, moving through pine and rhododendron forests with occasional views of snow-capped peaks. The trail is well-indented but still throws a few stretches along hills up and down to keep you interested. 

It passes between villages like Khumjung, which shows you the famous Yeti scalp in its monastery, and Jorsalle. Chaurikharka village is a small settlement with a few teahouses offering rest before the continuation toward Thamdanda. Chaurikharka gives a good opportunity for some peaceful reflection on the journey taken so far. This will be a wonderful final site in the Khumbu for a few hours before going onward into the lower land.

  • AccommodationTeahouses
  • MealsBreakfast- Lunch- Dinner
  • Altitude/Time4 to 5 hours

Today, you will be set on a relatively short hike from Chaurikharka to Thamdanda, as you can conveniently descend among the lower Himalayan foothills. You will first cross various villages like Phakding, stepping over the Dudh Koshi River on small suspension bridges, to conclude with that one last view of the mountains just before you descend further. Soon, the terrain becomes more and more temperate and can be viewed as terraced fields and bright green forests as you continue to descend to lower altitudes. 

The hike would mostly continue downhill, causing a lesser strain on your body compared to the heavy days spent trekking previously. The trail is quite clearly marked and follows a descending, gentle path coursing through Sherpa villages, where you may pass fields of barley and potatoes.

Arriving in Thamdanda may reveal a quiet and virtually peaceful village perfect for doing whatever it is you're supposed to do prior to going back to Kathmandu. The tea houses here welcome you with open arms, and you can enjoy the sights here once more just before heading to Kathmandu.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast- Lunch- Dinner
  • Altitude/Time13 to 14 hours

Finally, at the end of your journey to Everest Base Camp, you will return from Thamdanda to Kathmandu by road. It’s back onto winding mountain roads initially before joining a scenic but higgledy-piggledy dirt track. You’ll see how the jagged landscape gives way to verdant green hills as you wind down from the high mountains. The Himalayas will disappear from view as you come towards Kathmandu Valley, but the trek there will still be fresh in your mind. When you reach Kathmandu, it is like coming back into civilization after being away in the wilds for days. There’s time now to rest up, have a wash and do any further sightseeing or shopping for souvenirs in bustling markets.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast
  • Altitude/TimeFree Day

Day 16 is the last day of being in Nepal by road on the Everest Base Camp Trek. You will say your goodbyes to our team of guides and porters whom you have carried with you as you have walked the trail. One of our staff will see you back to Tribhuvan International Airport from where you will board a plane and fly back to your country.

Not satisfied with this regular itinerary?

Are you interested on planning custom trip? Feel free to contact us.

Useful Info

Best Time, Weather, and Temperature

The best seasons to trek to Everest Base Camp by road are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when the weather is stable with clear skies and moderate temperatures. 

Spring brings blooming rhododendrons, while autumn offers a panoramic view of snow-capped peaks. Daytime temperatures at lower altitudes in spring vary from 10–20°C (50–68°F), falling to -10°C (14°F) at higher elevations. Autumn temperatures are similar. However, nights are colder. 

Monsoon (June-August) means slippery trails and lack of visibility, while winter (December-February) experiences frigid cold with temperatures often below -20°C (-4°F), especially above 4,000 meters, as well as snow-covered trails. Stable weather guarantees safe trekking with minimal altitude risks.

Accommodation on Budget-Friendly EBC Trek

Accommodation on the Everest trek on-road is divided into hotels in Kathmandu and teahouses on the trekking route. In Kathmandu, you will be accommodated in 3-star hotels that provide Wi-Fi, attached bathrooms, and breakfast. They are comfortable accommodations offering private rooms. However, in the Everest region, you will have to stay at teahouses where you’ll be accommodated in twin-sharing rooms with simple beds having a mattress and a pillow/ warm blanket. Most of the time, Namche Bazaar and Lukla accommodations come with an attached bathroom. 

High-altitude accommodations have shared toilets outside your room, but hot showers are available at extra cost.  You will also need to bring toilet paper if you prefer using one, as teahouses do not provide them. Furthermore, most of the dining area in the teahouses is heated by wood or yak dung stove, which needs to be shared among trekkers. The accommodations are very basic but it doesn’t require more since most trekkers spend their time walking or taking rest inside their sleeping bags for warmth.

Private Rooms

Private rooms can only be provided before reaching higher elevations as they get sold out easily during those seasons.

Meals on EBC Trek Without Lukla Flight

Meals are included during your trek and are carefully prepared to suit the conditions of your trek. In Kathmandu, enjoy a variety of cuisines including local Nepali food as well as other international food, either at your hotel or in restaurants. While on the trail teahouses provide freshly cooked meals but with limited choices compared to urban areas.

Breakfast options include porridge, pancakes, eggs or Tibetan bread with tea or coffee. Lunch and dinner are typically dal bhat (a staple Nepali dish of rice, lentils and vegetables), noodles, pasta, momos and soups. In some areas, you may also find fried rice or basic meat curries. At higher altitudes it is advisable to eat seasonal vegetables as the quality of meat cannot be guaranteed if not properly refrigerated. Vegetarian meal options are available in all tea houses and lodges so we recommend you eat vegetarian meals to avoid any health complications.

You can buy snacks such as chocolate bars, energy bars/dry fruits- and nuts in the markets before leaving Kathmandu, but it’s best to take some high-energy snacks with you from home after making a few test purchases in your local supermarket/stores prior to departure.

Drinking Water

You will find drinking water at teahouses, but it is recommended that you bring your purification tablets or filter. You can buy boiled water, but this will add to your costs. Teahouses also provide tea and other hot beverages. 

Transportation and Trails

Everest trek by road is the alternate way to avoid a flight to Lukla. It is a scenic and adventurous alternative. The trip starts with driving all the way to Thamdanda from Kathmandu through mountain roads and deep valleys for approximately 10-12 hours’ drive, depending on the destination; if you stop at Salleri, then it will take an extra 4 to 6 hours, ’ drive to continue towards Thamdanda. The road is sometimes pitched but most of the time rough and rocky and crosses rivers mostly via a temporary bridge. There are two types of jeep transfer options available: private or sharing basis. 

Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness is a serious problem during trekking to Everest Base Camp, where the altitude is higher than 5,364 m (17,598 ft). Symptoms are headache, nausea, vertigo, and dyspnoea, which are thought to occur above an altitude of 2500 m (8202 ft). Acclimatization is also important, and the land route has an advantage over the mountain route, which trekkers can advantageously acclimatize as they go from lower altitudes on the route.

In order to avoid altitude sickness, stick to a slow increase schedule, drink enough fluids, and do not have alcohol or smoke. Diamox (acetazolamide) is useful for symptomatic relief. But, see a physician prior to use. Analyze your body, and if your symptoms become more intense, descend immediately to prevent serious conditions such as High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) or High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE), both of which are life-threatening.

Guides Help

Your guide will keep track of your health, and acclimatization days will be included. It is very important to let your guide know as soon as possible if you are experiencing any discomfort. There is emergency helicopter evacuation that is available but expensive without insurance. Proper preparation and acclimatization should be a top priority in order to safely hike.

Travel Insurance

Although travel insurance (especially for the road trek to Everest) is necessary, for its own safety and financial aspect, it could involve various unexpected and sometimes even dangerous situations. It addresses a range of risks, from altitude sickness to accidents and delays due to weather and road/car conditions.

Especially in high altitudes, helicopter evacuation, which may become a necessity, can be an expensive matter (over US$5,000), which, in turn, necessitates comprehensive insurance.

A wise policy needs to include emergency medical evacuation to a maximum altitude of 6,000 meters, trip cancellation, lost baggage, and medical charges. Enhanced coverage for high-risk activities such as high-altitude trekking is sometimes necessary. Numerous insurers sell plans for Everest Base Camp adventurers; confirm that your policy covers the following details.

  • It is recommended to confirm whether the insurer offers coverage in Nepal and the Everest area prior to buying.
  • Keep a hard copy and a digital copy of your policy at all times, and give the information to your guide or trekking operator, who will be able to access it quickly in an emergency. 

Packing List

Packing right for your Everest trek by road is important for you to stay comfortable and safe. Here’s what you need:

  • Clothing: You will need moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outer layers. Take a down jacket with a hood for altitudes above 4,000 meters. Carry thermal underwear, trekking pants, gloves, hat, and socks for different weathers.
  • Footwear: You will need good quality, durable and waterproof trekking boots with firm ankle support. They should have a well-defined grip and be broken in prior to the trek to prevent blisters. Lightweight slippers/sandals are also useful since you’ll always appreciate some evening relaxation.
  • Backpacks: If you’re hiring a porter, then carry just your day pack as in it, you can put your water bottle, camera/i-phone, lunch box, sweater/flight jacket and any miscellaneous stuff (you may buy or find along the way).
  • Sleeping Gear: You will need a 4-season sleeping bag. Rental options are available in Kathmandu.
  • Accessories: You will need a headlamp, trekking poles, sunglasses, sunscreen and a reusable water bottle. Water purification tablets or filters are necessary.
  • Personal Items: Bring along your toiletries, first-aid kit and altitude sickness medicines. Carry some snack items like energy bars and chocolates.
  • Documents: Make sure you have photocopies of your passport, permits, insurance and cash in small denomination notes.

Arrival and Visas

Arriving in Nepal usually starts at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport. Except for some nationalities, most of you will qualify for a visa on arrival in Nepal, so the process is very straightforward. You’ll need to bring your passport, which should be valid for at least six months with a blank page, as well as passport-sized photos. Visa fees vary depending on the length of stay (15/30/90 days available).

Online Visa Application

Online visa applications are not difficult and help to do ahead of time. You can fill out the form on the Department of Immigration’s website in your home country, and you won’t have to wait as long at the airport. Your Nepal visa has to be paid for in cash (USD) upon entry into Nepal. You’ll also need a passport-sized photo. Depending on other travel you may be doing after your trek, make sure you apply for a 30 or 90-day visa.

After Arrival Process

After clearing immigration, pre-arranged transportation will take you to your hotel. A representative from your trekking agency will greet you. Make sure he’s holding up a sign with your name. 

Fitness Level

To trek to Everest Base Camp, physical fitness is the utmost requirement as it is not a highly technical climb but more of a physical endurance. On average, you will be walking 5-8 hours a day and sometimes even longer subject to the altitude and trail conditions, as most of the trail is rough up/down.

Preparation

Preparation should start 2-3 months before the trek. Do cardio exercises like running, cycling or swimming to increase your stamina. Strengthen your leg muscles, core and upper body as you are going to trek on uneven trails and will also need to carry a day pack. Hike on inclined surfaces/stairs with a backpack loaded with weights to better prepare yourself for the trek.

Important Notes

  • Free Trekking Gear: On the second day after you arrive in Kathmandu, you will meet with your trekking guide and check if you have all the gear you need. The trekking company will provide a complimentary duffel bag and baseball cap.
  • Duffel Bag Use: This bag is to pack trekking supplies and will be on the back of a porter. Max weight 10 kg (22 lbs).
  • Daypack Requirement: Trekkers will need to keep a daypack to carry water, snacks, documents and other small items.
  • Luggage Storage: Any non-trekking items can be securely kept at your hotel in Kathmandu while you are on the trek.
  • Equipment Rentals:USD 35 each to rent a down jacket and a 4-season sleeping bag. A reimbursement of USD 200 per item is required in case of loss or damage.
  • Clothing Considerations: It is important to wear appropriate clothing. Please do not wear figure-hugging clothes like yoga pants unless they are worn with longer tops.
  • Porter Assistance: We provide 1 porter for every 2 participants. This means that you will carry a lighter load and have more energy for the trip.
  • Remote Trekking Conditions: There will be very few connectivity and basic facilities in remote areas. Carry your necessary supplies with you and prepare for delays or extra rest days.
  • Contingency Planning: Keep a few extra buffer days to factor in any exceptional delays due to weather/road conditions in order to have hassle-free trekking experience.
FAQs
  • Not having to take the Lukla flight removes bad weather delays and cancellations as a risk and also enables trekkers to experience a wider variety of landscapes and cultures along the overland route.

  • Yes, you need a Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and a Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit, which will cost you around $50.

  • Though challenging, it is manageable by any fit person having a positive attitude who is willing to work hard. Previous hiking experience would be an asset, but no technical skills are required. It is also important that you are in the very best physical condition, as fitness will play a key part in the trek’s enjoyment and success.

  • The road journey is an adventure in itself – winding mountain roads and stunning views. 

  • Yes, the overall trek is safe, but you need to be prepared and go with a reputable company as there are risks, such as altitude sickness, which can be dangerous if safety guidelines are not followed.

  • Yes, charging facilities will be available in most of the teahouses. You will have to pay for your gadgets to be charged. And you might have to wait for a while or even line up to get your gadgets charged.

  •  Most of it includes permitting, guide and porter service, stay and meals. Transportation (like the jeep ride). 

  • Yes, we offer great discounts when you book for larger groups, and thper-personon price dropped considerably. Generally group quotes are provided for 5-10 persons group size.

  • We assist in emergencies with guide training in first aid and evacuation and require clients to have insurance for helicopter rescues.

  • We provide gear rentals, like sleeping bags and down jackets, as a part of the services.

What Our Clients Say...
  • G
    Gina JordanBouvet IslandOctober 24, 2024
    rating star

    A Thrilling and Safer Way to Reach EBC

    An amazing alternative for those who dont want to fly to Lukla. Long jeep ride to Thamdanda, but nice and comfortable, with beautiful trekking paths with stunning views. Adventure Altitude Treks guides were great, providing us with a hassle-free experience. From the green environment at the lower base camp region to snow-capped rocky terrain close to EBC, it was an amazing, thrilling adventure which I can never forget.

    Google
  • A
    Archie KimKazakhstanAugust 15, 2024
    rating star

    Immersive Cultural Trek to Everest

    An offbeat trail and an opportunity to explore the authentic Sherpa culture, this journey starts with a scenic drive. We trekked through the less-trodden trails of Sagarmatha National Park, We got an opportunity to interact with the locals and visit some of the oldest monasteries, including Tengboche. We didn’t do the Lukla flight but experienced all the exhilaration and vistas of Everest and some other high peaks in its vicinity. All in all, if you want to have an off-the-beaten-track experience.

    Facebook

Ask a Question

Need Help? We're at your service
Trip Planner (Rohit)+977 9845449032
Operation Manager (Raju)+61 423 765 587
Send Us a Message[email protected]