How to get to the Everest Base Camp?

How to get to the Everest Base Camp ?

The Everest Base Camp Trek stands out as the most popular trek in Nepal and one of the most iconic and renowned treks in the world. The Everest Base Camp offers an awe-inspiring experience to travel enthusiast seeking an unforgettable journey against the beautiful background of the Khumbu region of Nepal.

The flight

The trek to Everest Base Camp begins with a spectacular mountain flight from either Kathmandu or Manthali Airport to Lukla. This approximately 30-minute flight is an adventure in itself, operated on small aircraft such as the Dornier or Twin Otter. During the flight, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges through the plane’s windows.

During the peak trekking season, to manage air traffic congestion at Kathmandu Airport, flights to Lukla are rerouted to Manthali Airport in the Ramechhap District. Located 132 km from Kathmandu (a 4-5 hour drive), Manthali Airport sits at an altitude of about 500 meters above sea level. In the lean trekking seasons (June, July, August, December, January, and February), when there are fewer flights to Lukla, operations typically return to Kathmandu Airport.

For a more exclusive experience, private helicopter charters to the Everest region are also available.

Lukla airport

The Lukla airport also known as the Tenzing Hillary airport stands at an altitude of 2800 m, making it one of the highest airport in the world. One end of the runway sits over a steep mountain side, while the other end over a cliff, which adds a thrill to every landing and take off.

The Gateway to Everest

Lukla serves as the main gateway to the Everest region. Lukla airport has played an important role in the development of tourism in this region. The Lukla airport has contributed to the popularity of the Everest Base Camp trek. Lukla marks the beginning of a journey for many adventure enthusaists to fulfill their life long dream.

The trail

The trail passes through several villages such as Phakding, Namche Bazar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Thughla, Lobuche, Gorak Shep and finally arrive at the Everest Base Camp. The path goes over rocky terrain past canyons, high suspension bridges, and several Sherpa settlements.

The journey

The journey from Lukla to the Everest Base Camp follows through the Dudh Koshi valley. Initially the trail ascends to Phakding, and in two days from Lukla you will reach Namche Bazaar. After a days rest at Namche, you continue past Tengboche and arrive at Dingboche.

At Dingboche, you will acclimate before continuing further. Two more days on the trail past Lobuche will get you to Gorakshep. From Gorakshep you will take an excursion to Everest Base Camp the same day and visit Kalapatthar the next morning.

Usually, the entire journey from Lukla to Everest Base Camp takes around 8 days, including acclimatization days in Namche and Dingboche. Overall, the journey from Lukla to Everest Base Camp, Kalapathhar, and back to Lukla can be completed over 12 days.

The adventure

Along the way, you have the opportunity to immerse yourself in Sherpa culture and gain insights into their daily lives. You will also encounter fellow trekkers from around the world share your experiences. Along the journey, you’ll also witness caravans of yaks and mules transporting essential supplies to local settlements, provisions for trekkers and expedition groups.

The return journey

The return journey to Lukla retraces the same route you took earlier, yet it offers a distinct charm as breathtaking views unfolds as hike downhill in the opposite direction. From Lukla, you will take the early morning flight and thus end your adventure in Kathmandu.