Lukla → Namche → EBC → Kala Patthar → Cho La → Gokyo → Renjo La → Thame → Namche → Lukla

Khumbu Region, Nepal | Sagarmatha National Park

The Everest Region Trek is one of the world’s most iconic trekking adventures, offering an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Himalayas. Home to Mount Everest (8,848.86 m), the highest peak on Earth, the region combines breathtaking mountain scenery, rich Sherpa culture, ancient monasteries, and diverse Himalayan landscapes.

The trek begins with a scenic flight to Lukla, often referred to as the gateway to Everest. From there, trekkers follow trails through picturesque Sherpa villages, rhododendron forests, suspension bridges, and glacial valleys within the Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Along the route, visitors experience the warm hospitality of local communities while enjoying spectacular views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and many other snow-capped peaks.

The journey provides not only a physical adventure but also a cultural immersion into the traditions and lifestyles of the Sherpa people. Trekkers can visit centuries-old Buddhist monasteries, prayer wheels, mani walls, and colorful prayer flags that reflect the region’s deep spiritual heritage.

Depending on the itinerary, the trek may lead to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m), Kala Patthar (5,545 m) for panoramic sunrise views of Everest, or other scenic destinations such as Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass. Acclimatization days are incorporated to ensure safe adaptation to high altitude and to enhance the overall trekking experience.

The Everest Region Trek is suitable for adventure enthusiasts seeking a combination of natural beauty, cultural exploration, and personal achievement. With proper preparation and guidance, the trek offers an extraordinary opportunity to experience the majestic Himalayas and create memories that last a lifetime.

↺ Anti-clockwise direction: EBC is tackled first while legs are freshest, then Cho La (east→west) leads into the Gokyo Lakes, followed by Renjo La (east→west) back to Thame. The Gokyo section becomes a scenic reward after the main objective. Cho La and Renjo La are both crossed in the easier east-to-west direction

Day	Stage & Description	Altitude
Day 1	Fly from Kathmandu/Manthali → Lukla, trek to Phakding- 4 hrs Lukla (2840m) → Phakding (2610m); gentle warm-up along the Dudh Koshi Note: if the flight is from Manthali, you’ll have to catch the shuttle of 02:00-04:00 in the morning as per your flight time.	2,610m
Day 2	Phakding → Namche Bazaar – 6-7 hrs Hillary Suspension Bridge, gorge scenery, and the long climb to Namche	3,440m
Day 3	Acclimatization — Namche Bazaar – 2-4 hrs Day hike to Syangboche airstrip (3720m) or Everest View Hotel; Sherpa market exploration ✦ Rest / acclimatization day	3,440m
Day 4	Namche → Tengboche – 5-6 hrs Rhododendron and juniper forest; Tengboche Monastery at dusk with Ama Dablam backdrop	3,860m
Day 5	Tengboche → Dingboche- 5-6 hrs Imja Khola valley; barren high-altitude landscape; Island Peak looms ahead	4,410m
Day 6	Acclimatization — Dingboche- 4-5 hrs Rest and hydrate; optional climb to Nagarjun Hill (5100m) for Makalu and Cho Oyu views ✦ Rest / acclimatization day	4,410m
Day 7	Dingboche → Lobuche- 5-6 hrs Past Thukla memorial cairns (4830m); Khumbu glacier moraine walking begins	4,940m
Day 8	Lobuche → Gorak Shep → Everest Base Camp – 6-8 hrs Reach EBC (5364m) along glacier moraine; overnight at Gorak Shep (5160m) ▲ EBC 5364m	5,364m ▲ High
Day 9	Kala Patthar sunrise → descend to Dragnag- 8-10 hrs Pre-dawn Kala Patthar (5545m); descend to Gorak Shep then cross moraine west to Dragnag (4700m) ▲ Kala Patthar 5545m	5,545m ▲ High
Day 10	Dragnag → Gokyo via Cho La Pass (5420m)- 7-9 hrs Cross Cho La east→west; glacier travel and short ice scramble; descend to Gokyo (4790m) ▲ Cho La 5420m	5,420m ▲ High
Day 11	Acclimatization — Gokyo Ri (5360m)- 4-5 hrs Dawn climb of Gokyo Ri; panorama of Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse, Makalu; afternoon lakes walk ✦ Rest / acclimatization day	5,360m ▲ High
Day 12	Gokyo → Lungden- 5-6 hrs North along the 4th Gokyo Lake; prepare for Renjo La crossing tomorrow	4,380m
Day 13	Lungden → Thame via Renjo La (5360m)- 7-9 hrs Cross Renjo La east→west; sweeping Everest and Cho Oyu views; descend to Thame (3820m) ▲ Renjo La 5360m	5,360m ▲ High
Day 14	Thame → Namche Bazaar- 4-5 hrs Easy valley walk down the Bhote Koshi to rejoin the main trail at Namche	3,440m
Day 15	Namche → Lukla- 6-7 hrs Descend the Dudh Koshi gorge; final suspension bridges; farewell dinner in Lukla	2,840m
Day 16	Fly Lukla → Kathmandu/Manthali Morning flight; afternoon free leisure day in Kathmandu	1,400m

 

Cost Includes :
Shuttle:

• Domestic Airport Pick-up and Drop-Off
• If flight via Manthali then, back & forth shared shuttle to Manthali

Trekking Crew:

• A professional English speaking trekking guide during trekking days
• Guide expenses: meals, accommodation, insurance, salary and trekking equipment

Flight:

• Kathmandu/Manthali to Lukla to Manthali/Kathmandu

Accommodation:

• Basic Tea-House Accommodation during trek (Twin Sharing)

Equipment and Permits

• Crampons, Sleeping Bags (Return after trek)
• Minor Medical Kit
• Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
• Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit
• Paperworks and Government Taxes

 Cost Excludes 

Visa Process and Requirements and Fees

• Visa on Arrival, (Pre-Arrival: https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np/)
• Visa (15 days – $30, 30 days – $50, 90 days – $125)
• Passport (valid at least 6 months)
• Visa fee (USD cash preferred)

Personal Expenses

• Shopping, snacks, hot (tea, coffee) and cold drinks, bar bills, bottle or boiled water, shower, Wi-Fi, laundry, telephone call, battery recharge costs,
• Porter during trekking days (1 Porter :2 Trekkers, 20 KG Max) USD $20 per Day

Personal Clothing and Gears

• You can buy around Thamel or Rental in Kathmandu- Tamang Trekking Shop, Thamel)

Meals

• All meals in Kathmandu, before and after the journey, expect inclusion
• Meals During the  trek (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) (USD $30 per person per day)

Travel and Medical Insurance  

• High-altitude coverage (at least up to 5,500 m)
• Helicopter evacuation
• Emergency medical treatment
• Repatriation (return to home country)

Gratitudes

• Tip to Guide, and Porter after the trek (Recommended)

Others

• Additional costs or delays caused by circumstances beyond our control like landslides, bad weather conditions, itinerary modification due to safety concerns, illness, change of government policy, strikes, mass movements, etc.
• All the costs and expenses not listed in – “What is included in this trek package?” above.

 

FAQ’S Everest Region Trek

1. How difficult is the Everest Region Trek?

The Everest Region Trek is generally considered moderate to challenging. Trekkers should be physically fit and prepared for long walking hours, steep ascents, and high-altitude conditions.

2. What is the best time to trek in the Everest region/Is it best to trek during the busy season?

Yes, trekking during the peak seasons—spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November)—is highly recommended due to favorable weather and excellent mountain visibility.

Spring (March–May):

• Mild temperatures and stable weather
• Blooming rhododendron forests
• Higher chances of Everest expeditions at Base Camp

Autumn (September–November):

• Clear skies and spectacular mountain views
• Dry trails and comfortable trekking conditions
• Major Nepali festivals such as Dashain and Tihar

However, peak seasons are also the busiest periods, meaning trails, teahouses, and flights to Lukla can be crowded. Early booking of flights, accommodation, and guides is strongly advised.

For trekkers seeking a quieter experience, the shoulder seasons (late February, early June, or early December) can also be rewarding, though weather conditions may be less predictable.

Recommendation: For first-time trekkers, the peak seasons provide the safest and most enjoyable trekking experience in the Everest region.

3. How many days does the trek take?

Depending on the route, the trek typically takes 12–18 days. Extended itineraries such as Gokyo Lakes or Three Passes can take longer.

4. What is the highest altitude reached during the trek?

The highest point on the classic  Everest Base Camp trek is Kala Patthar (5,545 m), offering panoramic views of Mount Everest.

5. Do I need prior trekking experience?

Previous trekking experience is beneficial but not mandatory. A good level of fitness and proper preparation are highly recommended.

6. Is altitude sickness a concern?

Yes. Altitude sickness can affect anyone above 2,500 m. Proper acclimatization, hydration, and gradual ascent are essential to minimize risks.

7. What permits are required for the trek?

Trekkers generally require:

• Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit (Nrs. 3390)
• Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit (Nrs. 2000)

8. Do I need a guide or porter?

While independent trekking is possible on some routes, hiring a licensed guide and/or porter is strongly recommended for safety, navigation, and cultural insights.

9. What type of accommodation is available?

Accommodation mainly consists of tea houses and lodges, offering basic but comfortable rooms with local meals and hospitality.

10. What food is available during the trek?

Common meals include:

• Dal Bhat (rice, lentils, and vegetables)
• Noodles and soups
• Fried rice and pasta
• Pancakes, eggs, and bread
• Tea, coffee, and hot beverages

11. Is drinking water available on the trail?

Yes, but trekkers are advised to use water purification tablets, filters, or boiled water to ensure safe drinking water.

12. Are there charging and internet facilities?

Most tea houses provide Wi-Fi and charging services for an additional fee. Availability may vary by altitude and weather conditions.

13. What should I pack for the trek?

Essential items include:

• Warm layered clothing
• Down jacket and sleeping bag
• Trekking boots
• Trekking poles
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Personal medications
• Reusable water bottle

14. Is travel insurance required?

Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance covering (5500m) high-altitude trekking and emergency helicopter evacuation is highly recommended.

15. Can beginners complete the Everest Base Camp Trek?

Yes, many beginners successfully complete the trek with proper training, acclimatization, and a suitable itinerary.

16. Is there mobile network coverage in the Everest region?

Mobile coverage is available in many villages, though connectivity may be limited or unreliable at higher elevations.

17. What wildlife can be seen in the region?

The region is home to Himalayan wildlife such as musk deer, Himalayan tahr, pheasants, and, occasionally, the elusive snow leopard.

18. Are ATMs available during the trek?

ATMs are limited and may not always function reliably. Trekkers should carry sufficient cash from Kathmandu before departure.

19. What is the average daily walking duration?

Trekkers typically walk 5–8 hours per day, depending on the itinerary and altitude.

20. Why choose the Everest Region Trek?

The Everest Region Trek offers a unique combination of breathtaking Himalayan scenery, rich Sherpa culture, spiritual heritage, and the opportunity to stand in the shadow of the world’s highest mountain.