Everest Base Camp Trekking or Everest Base Camp Hiking is a classic trek in the Khumbu region of Nepal near Mount Everest. One of the most popular treks in the world, Everest Base Camp Trekking showcases immense views of Himalayas including Mt. Everest (8848 m), Ama Dablam (6856m), Lhotse (8516m), Nuptse (7882m) and other peaks of this gigantic mountain range.
Things you should know before embarking on this trek
The Everest Base Camp Trek or also known as Mount Everest base camp trek is a famous trek in Nepal. It is considered to be one of the most beautiful treks in the entire world. The best time to do it is from mid-October to early November when there are no crowds and you can see the sunrise above Mount Everest. For an adventurous person, there will be no other better way to relish your trip. The height of base camp is 17,590 feet (5350 m) which gets you almost close enough for a glimpse of Mt. Everest itself without having any sort of technical climbing equipment.
When to embark on the Everest Base Camp Trek
The best time to embark on an Everest Base Camp Trek is during fall, from mid-September to late October. The spring season starts in early April, but you should avoid it because of heavy rainfall and a lack of oxygen at high altitudes. In addition, trekkers are at risk of avalanches and snowstorms when attempting to climb Mount Everest in winter. If you want to avoid climbing Mount Everest completely, then you can always undertake a variation of an Everest base camp trek that doesn’t reach its peak but still offers stunning views and challenging hikes. This will provide you with spectacular vistas without risking life or limb—and prepare you for your next adventure!
How much does an Everest Base Camp Trek cost?
In spite of its obvious appeal, an Everest Base Camp trek is not for everyone. It is definitely a physically challenging trek, so most people would need to be in reasonably good shape before undertaking it. If you are very out of shape, it might be better to look at one of Nepal’s other great treks (e.g., Annapurna). Once you have your health and fitness covered, you’ll need to decide if an Everest Base Camp trek is worth it for you financially. These treks can cost anywhere from $4,000 to $5,000. What does that get you?
How long does it take to complete the Everest Base Camp Trek?
Everest is a huge mountain, and its base camp is several days of trekking from either Everest North or South Base Camps. The normal route to Everest’s base camp takes five to seven days, depending on how many days you take off along the way. There are two other routes to Everest’s base camp: Shira Peak and Renjo La Pass. The Shira Peak route is just over six miles long and involves an ascent of 17,500 feet; it’s a good option for people who want a shorter but more challenging trip.
Why you need company when you embark on this trek
This trail has a tiring itinerary and you will be spending most of your time walking. And though you are accompanied by porters carrying your supplies, it is still important to have other people along. In fact, those who embark on an Everest Base Camp trek without company might suffer from altitude sickness or worse yet, encounters with thieves and other common dangers in remote areas in Nepal. Having friends for company can help you deal with any situation and make it a lot easier for all of you to enjoy nature’s beauty. Another important advantage is that in case one of your party members gets injured on route, there will be others around to help them get back home safely. Best advice – Pack light but travel with friends!
Helpful tips for your adventure on an Everest Base Camp Trek
About 6 to 8 weeks before your planned trip is a good time to go through your trekking and mountaineering gear and make sure everything is still in good condition. The equipment that you’ll be taking with you on your Everest Base Camp Trek should have gone through several seasons of wear, so it’s important to give them a thorough once-over before packing for your upcoming adventure. Make sure all zippers are working, especially if you are using an older sleeping bag or tent. Watch out for any signs of loose stitching and don’t forget to do a check on your other day-to-day items as well, like water bottles and backpacks.
Common mistakes made during a trek like an Everest Base Camp Trek
Everest Base Camp Trek is a tough journey, even tougher than an Annapurna Circuit trek. For example, if you do not have a good fitness level, you may experience difficulty breathing during high altitude regions. There are additional difficulties involved in an Everest trek such as rough terrain and unpredictable weather conditions that makes it one of most dangerous and riskiest treks. However, if you are determined to reach your destination in one piece then there are some preparation tips listed below that will help you to have a safe journey.