12 Days Everest Base Camp Trek

Day 1: Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla and Trek to Phakding

The adventure begins with an early morning scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan range. Upon landing at Lukla’s small mountain airport, the trek officially begins. You’ll meet your guide and porters before starting the easy trek along the Dudh Koshi River, passing through picturesque villages. The day ends in Phakding, a small village located at 2,610 meters, where you’ll settle into a mountain lodge for the night.

Day 2: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar

After breakfast, the trek continues along the Dudh Koshi River, crossing it several times on suspension bridges. You’ll pass through forests of pine, rhododendron, and magnolia as you enter Sagarmatha National Park at Jorsale. After a few hours of trekking, you’ll reach Namche Bazaar (3,440 meters), the gateway to Everest and the region’s central hub. The village is known for its lively market and the surrounding stunning mountain views.

Day 3: Rest Day at Namche Bazaar for Acclimatization

This day is dedicated to acclimatization, allowing your body to adjust to the higher altitude. You’ll hike to the Everest View Hotel, which offers stunning vistas of Mount Everest and other Himalayan peaks. Afterward, explore the Sherpa village of Khumjung, known for its rich culture and history. You’ll return to Namche Bazaar for the night, with plenty of time to rest and explore the local shops and cafes.

Day 4: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tyangboche

The trek on Day 4 offers one of the most scenic trails in the region, with panoramic views of Thamserku, Kantega, and Kusum Kangrib. The path follows a ridge, descending to the river at Phunki Tenga. From here, a steep climb through rhododendron forests brings you to Tyangboche, home to the famous Tengboche Monastery. The serene village is nestled at 3,867 meters, offering magnificent views of Everest and Ama Dablam.

Day 5: Trek from Tyangboche to Dingboche

The trail from Tyangboche to Dingboche descends through rhododendron forests before crossing the Imja Khola via an exciting suspension bridge. As you trek higher, you’ll pass through summer pastures and the village of Pangboche, with the towering Ama Dablam in the background. Finally, you’ll arrive at Dingboche, located at 4,350 meters, known for its expansive views of the Himalayas and peaceful atmosphere.

Day 6: Rest Day at Dingboche for Acclimatization

Another acclimatization day in Dingboche gives you time to explore the stunning valley and absorb the surrounding beauty. You’ll take a short hike, which provides great views of the Ama Dablam and Lhotse-Nuptse ridge. The hike also helps with altitude acclimatization, and you’ll have time to relax and enjoy the serene mountain setting before the more challenging days ahead.

Day 7: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche

This day’s trek leads you along a rugged trail that offers some of the most stunning views of the Himalayas. You’ll ascend gradually, passing mani walls and stupas along the way. After crossing a wooden bridge near Dugla and climbing a steep hill, you’ll arrive at a plateau with memorials for climbers who lost their lives on Everest. Continuing your ascent, you’ll reach the small settlement of Lobuche (4,940 meters), where you’ll spend the night.

Day 8: Trek from Lobuche to Everest Base Camp via Gorakshep

Today is one of the most exciting days of the trek. After breakfast, you’ll trek along the rocky moraine path to Gorakshep, the last settlement before Everest Base Camp. After a short break and lunch at Gorakshep, you’ll leave your belongings at the lodge and head to Everest Base Camp (5,364 meters). Reaching Base Camp is a triumphant moment, with incredible views of the Khumbu Icefall and surrounding peaks. After spending time at Base Camp, you’ll return to Gorakshep for the night.

Day 9: Trek from Gorakshep to Kala Patthar and Trek to Pheriche

An early morning hike takes you to Kala Patthar (5,545 meters), a famous viewpoint that offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Mount Everest and other towering peaks like Lhotse, Nuptse, and Pumori. After soaking in the stunning sunrise, you’ll descend to Gorakshep for breakfast before continuing the trek to Pheriche. The descent offers a chance to relax after the previous day’s exertion, and you’ll settle into a lodge in Pheriche for the night.

Day 10: Trek from Pheriche to Namche Bazaar

The trek back to Namche Bazaar is relatively easier as you descend through forests and past stunning mountain views. You’ll pass through Tengboche, where you can stop for lunch and admire the view of Ama Dablam. The trail continues down through pine and rhododendron forests, eventually leading back to Namche Bazaar. After a long day, you can enjoy a hot meal and rest in the comfort of a mountain lodge.

Day 11: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla

On the final day of trekking, you’ll descend further from Namche Bazaar to Lukla, retracing your steps along the Dudh Koshi River. The trek is mostly downhill, with a few short uphill climbs. After crossing several suspension bridges and passing through small villages, you’ll reach Lukla. Here, you’ll celebrate the completion of your trek and enjoy your last night in the mountains.

Day 12: Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu

The journey concludes with an early morning flight from Lukla back to Kathmandu. The 35-minute flight offers one last chance to see the stunning Himalayas. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you’ll be transferred to your hotel, marking the end of your incredible 12-day adventure to Everest Base Camp.