Trekking in Everest Region is a dream for every adventure lover. While climbing Mount Everest may not be possible for every adventure lover, Everest Base Camp trek can be the ultimate destination for many trekkers around the world that gives great sense of achievement. The trail offers the most stunning views of high peaks, glaciers , deep valleys along with diverse flora fauna and Sherpa culture.

Flight to Lukla

The flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (about 30 minutes) is often considered as the crucial part of the adventure. Lukla airport which is also known as Tenzing Hillary Airport (2860 m/ 9383 feet) is known for being one of the most challenging and dangerous airports due to its short runway, high altitude and unpredictable weather which adapts so quickly often results in delay or even cancellation of flights most of the time.

It is recommended to book your flight well in advance through a reputed travel agency that can keep you updated about the flight schedule in case of any changes and can also make all necessary arrangements to transfer to the airport and even can help you to get direct flights sometimes.

Flying from Ramechhap airport to Lukla is becoming a common alternative in the peak tourist season due to busy nature of Kathmandu airport. It is about 4 to 5 hours drive from Kathmandu, often travelers prefer to drive at midnight to catch the morning flight to Lukla so that they can save time to stay overnight at Ramechhap. Only basic and limited accommodation facilities are available at Ramechhap.

Note: Lukla flight costs around USD 220 each way including taxes.

Alternative plans

Drive to Jiri is a longer option to reach Lukla that will take several days. This was the traditional route that was widely used before Lukla airport was built. Whereas helicopter flights are more expensive but reliable alternative when regular flights are cancelled.

Altitude Sickness

Everest Base Camp located at 5345 m and Kalapathar at 5545 m , this trail offers one of the best views of world’s highest peak Mount Everest and the surrounding peaks. Acclimatization is crucial to prevent altitude sickness during this trek. Planning for rest days especially in places like Namche Bazar and Dingboche is every important to acclimatize your body 

Best Time to Trek

The best times for trekking in the Everest region are March to May and late September to November. The weather is generally stable and visibility is at its best during these time of year.

Trekking Permits

Currently, two permits: Sagarmatha National Park Permit and Pasang Lhamu Municipality permit are required for Everest Region Trek which costs NPR 3000 each (Around USD 24 each).

Accommodation & Food

Staying in local teahouse lodges is an integral part of the trekking experience for unique and local Nepalese hospitality in the mountain regions. Most of the teahouses and lodges in Everest region are basic yet comfortable, usually have twin beds, blanket and pillow. Heating system is almost nonexistent, so it can get really cold at night, especially at higher altitudes. Private bathrooms are available at most of the places. However, the higher you go, the more basic the facilities become, reflecting the remote and rugged nature of the environment. These teahouses offers variety of meals typically featuring Nepalese, Tibetan and western dishes. Nepali Dal Bhat(rice, lentil soup & mixed curries) is a popular and filling choice. Meals are usually served in a communal dining area which often has a stove or firewood in the middle for warmth.

If you do not have any budget issue, you can also find some luxury lodges in Everest Region like Mountain Lodges of Nepal and Hotel Everest view. These lodges offer higher standard of amenities like modern equipped attached bathrooms, comfortable beds, high quality linens, heating system inside the room ,hot showers, free wifi etc. Also, they have a more extensive menu offering varieties of meals including both local and international cuisine.

Note: These luxury lodges price starts minimum from USD 250 per room

Tips for Trekkers

Be prepared for the basic facilities and cold temperature. Please bring all necessary items like proper trekking gears, headlamps(for nighttime bathrooms visits & early morning trek), personal hygiene products like wet wipes, toilet papers, hand sanitizers, personal medicines etc. and make sure your insurance covers emergency helicopter evacuation  .