How long is trek to Everest Base Camp?

The journey to the base camp of the world’s highest mountain, Mt. Everest, will be strenuous. It is the most popular trekking route in the Everest region of Nepal. EBC is also the iconic and well-known trekking route in the world.

The journey starts with a thrilling flight to Lukla (one of the most adventurous airports in the world). There are two flight routes to Lukla: one is the direct flight from Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, and another route involves driving to Ramechhap (Manthali) then taking a flight to Lukla.

Once you land in Lukla, get your permits verified and enjoy a cup of tea there. Then begin your trek..

Everest Base Camp Trek Distance

The classic Everest Base Camp trek from Lukla to EBC and back is 130 kilometers (80 miles) long – 65km each way – which may sound like a lot of trekking! But no worries, it’s just about covering 15km a day for 12 days including acclimatization. The average walking pace is 5km/hour, so 15km is not much to be worried about as the surrounding scenery, terrain and atmosphere will boost your energy to get that done.

Best EBC Trekking Time

This trekking route is well-maintained and doable by any age group of determined person during specific times of the year. March to May and September to November – let’s consider these as the best seasons for EBC trek without any interruption while on the track.

How Much Time Does It Take to Reach EBC?

Usually, the standard time for EBC trekking is 12 days from Kathmandu. Also, this iconic trek has variations including the most authentic bus route via Jiri and other place extensions like Gokyo and three-pass.

The time to reach Base Camp takes longer than returning. Due to proper acclimatization requirements because of altitude sickness, it takes time to adjust the body according to the surroundings. Where it takes 9 days to reach, it only takes 3 days to return.

Look at the itinerary designed for the classic Everest Base Camp Trek for a more detailed understanding:

• Day 01: Fly to Lukla (2,860m/ 9,318 ft.) from Kathmandu and trek to Phakding (2,610m)
• Day 02: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m/11,286 ft.)
• Day 03: Acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar (3,440 m/11,286 ft.)
• Day 04: Trek to Tengboche (3,860 m/12,664 ft.)
• Day 05: Trek to Dingboche (4,410 m/14,469 ft.)
• Day 06: Acclimatization walk and short hike to Nangkharstang Hill (5,083 m/16,676 ft.)
• Day 07: Trek to Lobuche (4,910 m/16,109 ft)
• Day 08: Trek to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m/17,598 ft.) and back to Gorak Shep (5,164m)
• Day 09: Hike up to Kala Patthar (5,545 m/18,192 ft.) and trek down to Pheriche (4,240 m/13,911 ft.)
• Day 10: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m/11,286 ft)
• Day 11: Trek to Lukla (2,860 m/9,318 ft.)
• Day 12: Fly from Lukla (2,860 m/9,318 ft.) to Kathmandu (1,400m/4,344 ft.) or Manthali (Ramechhap)

Elevation on EBC Trek

The EBC trek starting point is Lukla, which lies at 2,860m – this is already quite high for those who are not used to such altitude. Then it gradually increases to the highest point, Kala Patthar at 5,545m, while the Everest Base Camp itself is at 5,364m. The altitude typically gains from 400-800m each day. Hence, two days are set aside for acclimatization: one at 3,440m in Namche and another at 4,410m in Dingboche. Within these two rest days, there are short hikes planned to help adjust the body to the altitude.

By following this itinerary with proper planning for acclimatization, the Everest Base Camp trek journey will be accomplished successfully. Some factors such as fitness, proper food and rest on the track affect the quality of experience during the trek. So, join us on this adventure. Our expertise will maximize your trek in the mountains to the top of the world for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.