It seems like an impossible task to complete the Everest Base Camp trek – we share these tips for Everest Base Camp trek so you can prepare.
Mount Everest, the highest mountain in the world is known as Sagarmatha to the local Nepali people. It sure seems like an impossible task to complete the Everest Base Camp trek!
Many trekkers aim only to reach the basecamp which is considered “Nepali Flat” and is stunningly beautiful. It is over a longer acclimatization period that one can reach the base camp. However, one can trek Everest basecamp easily using these tips and with well-guided hiking tours. under the supervision of expert local mountain guides.
Tips for hiking Mount Everest Base Camp
Everest basecamp is a 40-mile trek one way. Although the Everest Base Camp trek takes you through mountain paths, it is not a climb. There are a couple of steep sections, but there is no hurry as one can take rest before moving ahead on this straight forward trek. There is no need to carry special equipment like crampons or ropes.
There are differing route options to reach the base camp such as Jiri, Saleri, and Phaplu. All these treks are beautiful, and they may take a bit longer. How long you take to reach the camp will rely on your skills and the length to your trek.
When is the best time to go for the trek?
The best months are March to May and October to November as these are the pre and post-monsoon months. One should always check the local weather conditions before going. It starts cold and gets warmer from March to May. Get ready for one of the world’s most famous treks that boast of the most exquisite views of the highest peaks in the world amidst massive mountains and valleys. Enjoy those stunning Himalaya views with Makalu, Khumbu Ice Fall and more.
Packing and Everest Base camp trek cost
It is a good idea to practice and learn how you can refine your packing before you go. Avoid taking more than 10 kg in your backpack and keep space for at least two litres of water in it. Practice packing your bag and walking with the heavy load. Making smart decisions can indeed make the hike a lot more enjoyable. you should pack only those items that you think you absolutely need.
Well, it is true that the trek to Everest basecamp is more expensive than you think. With no proper infrastructure, everything needs to be carried by those porters or helicoptered in from Kathmandu. You could end up paying $10 for a slice of cake at those bakeries at higher altitudes. You have to spend on your gear, the tour guide, flights and the permits for trekking.
It is a good idea to rent out jackets and sleeping bags, especially if you are here just for two weeks. Figure out how you can ration yourself for $30 per day for food.
Do not make the mistake of buying everything and loading your bag. For example, you can avoid bringing toilet paper but can bring wet wipes which can get very expensive here.
Medication and Wi-Fi
The good news is that Wifi is for sale everywhere and the telecom companies in Nepal sure have exploited the need of trekkers expect to have wifi everywhere. However, the packages get more expensive the higher you go. Avoid downloading updates and use your data only to check your emails and update Facebook status. Get a local SIM card from Kathmandu and with a good data plan before you go. Here is a full guide about staying online when trekking Everest.
Many people show symptoms of altitude sickness, and there are several medications like Diamox, that help to prevent those symptoms and aid with acclimatization. The medication can lower headaches, dizziness, and shortness of breath. However, use medication only in case of acute mountain sickness. It is a must to get travel insurance so that you can enjoy peace of mind, in case of an emergency.
Is the trek dangerous?
Well, if you are not under the guidance of a local expert your operator, the Everest base camp trek can sure pose difficulties for you. Your tour operator can plan out a well-designed itinerary in terms of itinerary and rest days along with taking care of food and water. While there are no risks due to any exposed ridges or steep climbs, things can get dangerous if your body is not well acclimated to the new environmental conditions.
A good tour operator will make you aware of Yaks who carry kits and luggage and often bump into people. You can get warned by the sound of their bells and stand off the trail to give way to these amazing animals.
Are you fit for the trek?
Of course, you need to be in good health to complete the trek. Although there is no need for you to be a marathon athlete, still, you should be used to walking 5 to 6 hours a day on rough mountain terrain. Most of the trekking is done in the morning while the afternoons are kept for rest and relaxations. Just enjoy the trek and soak up the amazing experience.
There are some people who find it difficult to get used to thin air with low oxygen. The secret lies in giving your body time and take things slowly. Gradually, your body will acclimatize to the lower oxygen levels and you can complete the trek slowly but surely. Sleep well, take proper rest and drink lots of water. If you take the right steps, you can certainly find yourself fit and enjoy the trek.
It will take you about two weeks to reach the Everest base camp from Kathmandu. Once you fly in Kathmandu, it is a good idea to take a couple of days rest to get over the jet lag and explore the city. The hikers set off with light day packs and are supported by porters and the local community. You will pass through remote villages and Buddhist monasteries. Interact with the Sherpa people and sleep in their tea houses that are both charming and rustic.
Different Kathmandu temples along the way ensured cultural interaction and coupled with the natural mountain scenery around; it indeed is one of the best trekking experience ever.
Every journey is a dream, and the trek to Mount Everest base camp is indeed one of the most exciting ones. It is indeed of the most dramatic trek because of the varied and spectacular scenery. You will love the clear skies and pristine views of those mountains.
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure, and you are sure to get that feel of massive accomplishment as you reach Everest basecamp!
Helpful Resources
Travel essentials:
- We LOVE this camera for our travel photography.
- For a cheap, easy and compact camera, we use this to vlog and take photographs.
- We use this travel drone (but make sure to check drone laws in your chosen destination first).
- This is our favourite travel insurance because it covers so many activities and travel situations that could arise on longer trips but also offer year coverage.
What to pack
- No matter where we travel to, I always take these trusty hand sanitizers and a mini first aid kit.
- We love these toiletry bags (especially great for smaller bathrooms) and choose a laptop bag like this as our hand luggage.
- We keep our devices charged on long travel days with these lightweight battery packs and bring these worldwide travel adaptors on all our trips.
- I still struggle not to overpack so stick to using an expandable suitcase like these and always take my trusty luggage scales to avoid being charged at the airport.
SNK Creation
Wednesday 9th of February 2022
Really helpful Info! that’s all i can say about your Posts. Great tips! Thanks for sharing us.
Divyanshu
Monday 12th of April 2021
Your article was very good, never read such an article before, and in addition to this I have read many more articles of your website. I want to say again, you wrote very well, Thank you.
Zalpa Rai
Thursday 28th of March 2019
Everest base camp trek is one of the most beautiful trekking route in the world. This is a must go trekking once in a life time but be aware of the altitude sickness. especially for the people living near sea level. Always get a guide when you go for the trekking in high Himalayas. It will cost you few but the risk of going without local experts can be dangerous. Always get your medical insurance. If you are going hiking in Nepal, Local sherpas are the best people and you can be assured of No/minimum problems.
Avoiding Altitude Sickness in Manaslu Circuit Trek – The Travelling Slacker
Tuesday 26th of March 2019
[…] Altitude sickness can happen to anyone who escalates to higher altitudes without giving their body time to adjust to the change in oxygen and pressure levels. So, it does not happen to a specific age, fitness or gender. Since it is not specific, it is best that everyone who goes for a Manaslu circuit trek follow measures that can minimize the risks of altitude sickness. Do note that these tips will also help you in other high altitude treks such as the EBC Trek. Here is a good post on preparing for the Everest Base Camp Trek. […]