The Everest Base camp trek is an opportunity of a lifetime. This journey is specially designated for travel enthusiasts with high aspirations. It is a wonderful opportunity to bask your spirit in the tranquil natural scenery.
After an exhilarating flight to Lukla airport, which is sure to get you pumped, you will follow in the footsteps of the legendary Sir Edmund Hillary, Tenzing Norgay, and other numerous men and women who were brave enough to summit Everest after them.
The trail to the Everest base camp will take you through the sheltered monasteries, and high-suspension bridges. You are bound to be taken aback by the astounding views of the majestic mountains including; Mt. Cho Oyu, Mt. Lhotse, and Mt. Makalu.
In this blog, we will be exploring the Everest Base Camp Trek distance, length, and elevation. You will also find tips and information that will help you plan and prepare for this epic adventure.
Distance
The Everest Base Camp Trek Distance from Lukla to EBC and back is about 130km long. This may sound like a lot of trekking. But, there’s nothing to worry about. The typical round trip to the Everest base camp trek takes about 12-16 days and you will be covering about 15 km each day, which is not a very intimidating number. Additionally, the average walking pace is around 5km/hr, so 15km per day appears doable.
The time is taken and the distance travelled might be a little different due to the rocky terrain, gradual ascent, and high altitude gains that must be made. The bottom line is that this distance is attainable for people of all ages, shapes, and sizes.
If you plan your travel with a tour operator then you are highly likely to have the luxury of having your huge travel bags carried by the porters or by yak/mules. This will further take the strain away from your body allowing you to focus on getting up and down the trail safely.
Trekking continuously at a high elevation can be pretty tiresome. Hence, the trekkers regularly take enough breaks to gradually ascend further to higher altitudes.
If you are trekking during the winter, you will have a more gradual ascend as you need to be more careful of the stunning yet challenging snow-clad trails. Also, the rocky terrains and unforeseen weather can slow you down. So, be sure to carry appropriate clothing and equipment.
Length
Now speaking of the length of the Everest base camp trek, it is carried out for about 12-16 days depending on the trek you choose. There are numerous trekking routes that lead you to the Everest base camp including the Jiri to Everest Base Camp or the Gokyo Lake trek.
Even though these generally take longer days. It would take a minimum of 10 days to reach the base of the majestic mountain as you will encounter various rises and steeps. Also, the descent is comparatively easier.
However, if you are going for an easier option, you can avoid this arduous trek and take the road from Tibet. One of the major setbacks of this route is that you cannot travel independently. You need to book a planned trip with the registered tour operator.
Day 1: Kathmandu-Lukla-Phakding (1350m – 2610m)
Day 2: Phakding – Namche Bazar (approx. 5,6 hours walk) (2610m-3440m)
Day 3: Namche Bazar Acclimatization Day (3440m)
Day 4: Namche Bazar – Phortse Village (approx 5,6 hrs walk) (3440m – 3810m)
Day 5: Phortse Village – Dingboche (approx 7,8 hrs walk) (3810m – 4410m)
Day 6: Dingboche Acclimatization Day (4410m)
Day 7: Dingboche – Lobuche (approx 5hrs walk) (4410m – 4910m)
Day 8: Lobuche – Gorakshep – Everest Base Camp – Gorakshep (4910m – 5140m) 7.8 hrs
Day 9: Gorakshep – Kalapatthar – Pheriche (5510m – 4300m) 7hrs.
Day 10: Pheriche (4280m) to Namche (3440m)
Day 11: Namche – Monjo/Phakding – Lukla (2860 m)
Day 12: Lukla – Kathmandu (2860m- 1350m)
Elevation
The Everest base camp trek is a high-elevation trek with multiple altitudes. The Everest Base Camp Trek elevation is another critical factor. The trek officially starts at Lukla, at 2810 meters and the highest point of the trek is Kalapathhar at an astounding 5545 meters. Upon ascending further you will be able to feel the effects of the altitude on your body.
The typical elevation gain is in the range of 400-800 m each day. Also, on days when you are gaining more altitude, you will be followed by an acclimatization day. You can utilize this day by exploring the surrounding regions and sightseeing.
Also, note that you need to be active even during the acclimatization days as well. It is crucial to get used to the altitude. These in-between days are even more important as they provide you an opportunity to reduce the chances of suffering from acute motion sickness.
You can see the elevation gain of Everest Base Camp 12 days Trek on each day, below:
Day 1: Kathmandu-Lukla-Phakding (1350m – 2610m)
Day 2: Phakding – Namche Bazar (approx. 5,6 hours walk) (2610m-3440m)
Day 3: Namche Bazar Acclimatization Day (3440m)
Day 4: Namche Bazar – Phortse Village (approx 5,6 hrs walk) (3440m – 3810m)
Day 5: Phortse Village – Dingboche (approx 7,8 hrs walk) (3810m – 4410m)
Day 6: Dingboche Acclimatization Day (4410m)
Day 7: Dingboche – Lobuche (approx 5hrs walk) (4410m – 4910m)
Day 8: Lobuche – Gorakshep – Everest Base Camp – Gorakshep (4910m – 5140m) 7.8 hrs
Day 9: Gorakshep – Kalapatthar – Pheriche (5510m – 4300m) 7hrs.
Day 10: Pheriche (4280m) to Namche (3440m)
Day 11: Namche – Monjo/Phakding – Lukla (2860 m)
Day 12: Lukla – Kathmandu (2860m- 1350m)
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Everest Base Camp Trek distance, length, and elevation are key elements to prepare for this incredible adventure. The Everest Base Camp Trek distance is around 130 km, and the trek typically takes about 12 days to complete.
This trek offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain ranges that include; Mt. Cho Oyu, Mt. Lhotse, and Mt. Makalu which provides you with an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting several monasteries and interacting with the people there.
This trek requires adequate preparation, like appropriate Everest base camp trek packing list and booking reputable tour operators. This is an astounding adventure that is going to test your limits and will reward you with an unforgettable experience.
Hopefully, these tips convinced you to embark on the happening adventure to the Everest base camp trek. You can connect with us here at Bold Adventure to enjoy the journey of a lifetime.
Also, check out:
Everest Base Camp Trek Insurance
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Everest Base Camp trek?
The classic Everest base camp trek i.e. from Lukla to EBC is about 65km long each way.
How many days does it take to complete the Everest Base Camp trek?
This trek usually takes about 12 days, but some of the trekking groups might opt for a 14-15 day itinerary to allow extra acclimatization days.
How much distance do you cover each day on the trek?
You cover about 15km distance each day on the trek. Which is a reasonable number considering the high altitude and rugged terrain.
What is the elevation gain during the trek?
The trek officially starts from Lukla (28,00m/9,186ft) and ends at the highest point, Kalapathhar(5,545/18,192ft), before descending back to Lukla. So the total elevation gain is around; 2,745m/9,000ft.
What is the best time of year to trek to Everest Base Camp?
The best time of the year for the Everest base camp trek is during spring(March to May) and autumn(September To November). Weather is generally clear during this time, making for ideal trekking conditions.
What kind of physical fitness is required for the Everest Base Camp trek?
The EBC trek is considered a moderate to difficult trek and requires a good level of physical fitness. Trekking experience and altitude acclimatization can also be helpful in making the trek more comfortable.
Is altitude sickness a concern during the Everest Base Camp trek?
Yes, altitude sickness can be a concern during the Everest base camp trek. You will trek to high altitudes above(4,000/13,123ft). Taking proper precautions and adequate acclimatization can help prevent altitude sickness.
Is it safe to trek to Everest Base Camp?
Yes, Everest base camp is generally a safe trek. But make sure that you are taking proper safety measures and following the trekking rules properly. Hiring a licensed guide and porter and following all the safety measures is recommended.
