12 Days Everest Base Camp Trek

Duration: 12 Days5/5(5 reviews)
At a Glance
  • Duration 12 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • Destination Nepal
  • Start/End KTM/KTM
  • Group Size 1-12
  • Max. Altitude 5545

Highlights

  • Short 12 days trek to Everest base camp, lap of Mt. Everest- the tallest mountain in the world
  • An ideal package for beginner trekkers who want to explore the beauty of the Khumbu region
  • A thrilling flight to Lukla (one of the highest airports in the world) begins the trek
  • Trek through lush forests of rhododendron and walk along the rushing Dudh Koshi river
  • Spend nights in comfortable lodges run by locals
  • Have close interactions with Sherpas and learn a lot about them
  • Visit ancient monasteries along the way
  • The trail at upper elevation involves walking on glacial paths and moraines
  • Explore the Everest base camp and Kala Patthar
  • Unwind and rejuvenate, enjoying dramatic mountain views & diverse landscapes

Everest Base Camp Trek 12 Days from Kathmandu to Kathmandu

If you are already in Nepal and looking to join the iconic Everest base camp trek from Kathmandu, then you are at the right place. Our 12 days Everest base camp trekking is a short itinerary perfect for travelers with a limited time to spend on the mountains.

If you're looking for a thrill and an adventure of a lifetime, then the 12-day Everest Base Camp Trek might be just what you're looking for. This popular trek takes you to the base camp of the world's highest mountain, Mount Everest, and features breathtaking views and challenging trails suitable for both novice and expert hikers.

Everest base camp trekking is one of the most famous treks in the world. Given the adventure and thrill offered by this trek, many people aspire to conquer the trails to the lap of the highest mountain in the world, Mt. Everest. And our professional team of native guides and porters will help you do so. Unlike the Everest base camp is located in the Sagarmatha National Park, Khumbu region. The Everest Base Camp 12 Days Trek begins with a quick scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. Reaching EBC is not easy but not very demanding too (no technical climbing is needed). From Lukla, you'll be walking for the next seven days on rugged trails, gaining elevation every day to reach the Everest base camp. In the peak climbing season, you can see many colorful tents of mountaineers aiming to scale Mt. Everest at the base camp.

Beginning your trek through the forested temperature zone, you enter the sub-alpine area on the second day of your trek and make your way to the alpine zone. The 12-day Everest base camp trekking route goes through forests of fir, birch, and rhododendron. You'll be crossing multiple suspension bridges hanging over the deep valleys and walking along the foothills you pass by beautiful Sherpa villages.

The Khumbu region is a remote area. The inaccessibility of the region has kept it protected from the outside world even though thousands of travelers explore it every year. The locals live quite a simple lifestyle and practice their ancient culture. There are many stupas and monasteries scattered around the trail. A part of Everest base camp 12 Days trekking offers close insight into the rich cultural heritage of natives.

The stunning mountain view from the first day of the trek and soothing Himalayan air unwind you. As you get closer to EBC and Kala Patthar, the mountains get prominent. Amidst the bustle of the peak trekking season, you'll find tranquility for yourself and enjoy the 12 Days EBC journey.

Everest base camp trek 12 days is a perfect short trek to Mt. Everest. One single click and your booking for the 12-Day Everest base camp trek 2024/2025 with us is done. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us. We'll be very happy to assist you in finding the best Everest base camp trek package.

Everest base camp trek 12 Days attractions

Short trek to Everest base camp

Our 12 days Everest base camp trekking is for travelers who are in quest of a short itinerary to the Mt. Everest base. This itinerary is also best for the trekkers who are in Kathmandu or want to make their arrangements for Kathmandu and are ready to hit the trail. Even though it's a short trek, we have not compromised acclimatization day and the trekkers get ample time to enjoy the trek.

No previous trekking experience needed

Everest base camp trek 12 Days does not need previous trekking experience but demands proper preparation. To have a safe and smooth trek, you have to be ready physically and mentally. The overall journey can get overwhelming and exhausting.

Trek safely with an expert team

If we talk about the expertise of Outfitter Himalaya, it goes over two decades. We are an expert trek, tour & expedition organizer in Nepal. Our voyages are well designed and safe. We assure high satisfaction, the best rate, and a friendly atmosphere. You get to trek with the most experience and humble trek guides with us.

Enjoy the serenity of the Himalayas and breathtaking mountain panoramas

If one thing that attracts people from all around the world to the Khumbu region is its breathtaking landscapes and constant mountain views. The trail of the 12 days Everest base camp is packed with mountains dominating the sky and lush green hills. The stillness of the region and rejuvenating air lets you unfold your thoughts and relax.

At Phakding, you get to see the first mountain view of Kongde Ri (6,187 m). Mt. Everest's (8,849 m) first glimpse is seen from Namche Bazaar. From here onwards, you'll be accompanied by stunning views of Lhotse (8,516 m), Nuptse (7,861 m), Ama Dablam (6,812 m), Thamserku (6,608 m), Island Peak (6,160 m), Makalu (8,463 m), Cho Oyu (8,188 m), etc throughout the trek.

Spend nights in comfortable lodges operated by natives and close interactions with Sherpas

Before reaching EBC, we walk through many mountain villages and spend nights in some of them. Every small and big village on the way shows the lifestyle of the locals. The locals run the lodges and wish you the best for your trek.

The people of the Khumbu region are welcoming, so you'll feel very comfortable around them. Phakding (2,610 m), Namche Bazaar (3,440 m), Tengboche (3,860 m), Dingboche (4,410 m), Lobuche (4,940 m), and Gorak Shep (5,164 m) are the villages you spend overnight.

Learn about the culture of the locals and visit ancient monasteries

The Everest region houses hundreds of years old monasteries and stupas. The locals are followers of Buddhism. You meet with monks in the monasteries along the way. Talking about the monasteries, you visit the three oldest monasteries of the Khumbu region- Khumjung, and Tengboche. Similarly, along the way, you'll come across colorful prayer flags, prayer wheels, and artistic gates with intricate designs.

Enjoy adventurous trails full of natural wonders

The Everest Base Camp 12 days trekking route ascends through dense forests of rhododendron, fir, and birch. You may get to see wildlife and many species of birds along the way. The trail crosses numerous hanging bridges in the early part. You come across lovely waterfalls and viewpoints.

The upper part of the 12-Day Everest base camp trek route has moraines and glacial paths. The trail gets steeper and filled with loose rocks. The Everest base camp itself is a moving glacier. You see frozen streams and the Khumbu Icefall.

Everest base camp and Kala Patthar

Everest base camp (5,364 m) is in the lap of Mt. Everest. It is the highest mountain in the world. Reaching EBC is a huge achievement and lifelong dream of many humans. It's like reaching the top of the world. The base camp is marked with huge rocks and prayer flags.

The top of Mt. Everest is not seen from its base camp because of other dominating mountains, so we hike to Kala Patthar the following day before descending. Kala Patthar (5,644 m) is a famous viewpoint that offers a 360-degree view of snow-capped mountains.

You'll Experience

Everest Base Camp

Itinerary

Find the detailed trek itinerary of the Everest Base Camp Trek 12 Days. The 12-day Everest Base Camp Trek itinerary starts and ends in Kathmandu. You need to arrive in Kathmandu at least a day in advance and need to have a return flight home on the next day of your return from the 12-day Everest Base Camp Trek.

We at Outfitter Himalaya have not included any accommodations in Kathmandu for pre and post the trek. However, if you prefer to book the whole arrangement with hotels, airport transfers, etc pre and post the trek and we also have a 14 Days Itinerary.

The given itinerary is the standard trek itinerary to complete the Everest Base Camp Trek comfortably and suitable for average fitness levels. However, if you want to shorten or lengthen the trek itinerary, We can make the itinerary and offer you as per your need and interests.

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Our team picks you up at your hotel lobby and takes you to the domestic airport. We'll fly to Lukla airport from where the trek begins.

Upon landing, we say hello to the porters who are going to join us on the trek and start walking on a downhill route that leads to Phakding village for an overnight stay. Flying high and sleeping low will keep us away from altitude sickness.

Note: Lukla Flight Updates!

  • MealsL, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude2610

From Phakding, we continue trekking along the bank of Dudh Koshi river through the pine forest. The trail crosses several yak pastures and villages like Benkar and Chumoa. On the way, we come across a large suspension bridge called The Hillary Bridge. Crossing this bridge, we enter Sagarmatha National Park.

The forests get denser, and there are a few other small settlement areas on the way beyond. Crossing rivers and streams, we walk on a steep uphill route that leads to Namche Bazaar. If the sky is clear, we see the first glimpse of Mt. Everest today.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude3440

We spend a rest day in Namche Bazaar to acclimatize. Here, we have multiple hiking options to places like Khumjung monastery, Syangboche Airstrip, and Hotel Everest View. All these hikes offer phenomenal views of mountains like Lhotse, Nuptse, Everest, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku.

Do not forget to explore Namche Bazaar itself and its narrow bustling alleyways. You can visit the Everest Photo Gallery and Sherpa Culture Museum. There are a lot of cafes and restaurants with great views & paid WiFi service where you can chill in the remaining time.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude3440

Leaving Namche Bazaar, it's time to trek to the next village, Tengboche. The trail ascends through rhododendron forests and passes by beautiful small villages. Enjoying stunning views of Everest and other mountains, we walk along the hillside above the Dudh Kosi river. From Phunki Thanga, the route gets even more impressive. We cross Imja Khola and walk under the shades of rhododendron until Tengboche comes.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude3860

We wake up early to enjoy the beautiful sunrise over Mt. Ama Dablam and have a delicious breakfast. The trail goes north from Tengboche village and crosses a suspension bridge over Imja Khola. We gradually walk and reach the hamlet of Pangboche village.

The trail further gets narrow, and we reach Orsho village. From here, we walk on the lower trail along the bank of Imja Khola. Passing by chortens and mani walls, we walk on terraced fields before reaching Dingboche village.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude4410

It's our second and last rest day in Dingboche village. We’ll wake up early and hike to Nagarjun Hill (5,100 m). The views of Lobuche Peak, Lhotse, Nuptse, Cholatse, Kangtega, Ama Dablam etc are jaw dropping from this place. Later in the day, we spend time relaxing and mingling with locals.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude4410

The trail gradually ascends to Thukla. We'll be walking above the tree line, and the climate also changes into much drier & cold with high exposure to the sun. Likewise, the views change from lush green hills to barren hills and bushes.

The rial today steeply ascends over the moraine of the Khumbu glacier. From Thukla pass, we walk on grassy valleys and rocky terrain to Lobuche village.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude4910

The day begins with walking on a rough and rocky trail to Gorak Shep. Despite the rugged trail and high elevation, the close views of snow-capped mountains will keep you eager to move further. In a few hours of walking by small streams and glacial moraines, we reach Everest base camp.

Located on a part of Khumbu Glacier, the Everest base camp is a moving terrain with boulders and surrounded by blankets of white snow. We do not spend the night here and descend to Gorak Shep after spending some time at the base camp.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude5364

Kala Patthar is the highest point we touch during the 12 Days Everest Base camp trek. From Gorak Shep, the trail steeply ascends to Kala Patthar, a famous viewpoint that offers 360-degree views of the Himalayan Mountain, including Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Cho Oyu, Makalu, Pumori, etc.

We get to see a heavenly sunrise today from Kala Patthar. The next part of the trail involves downhill walking to Pheriche. It is a small village with the Himalayan Rescue Association Clinic, where you can see volunteer doctors from around the world.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude5545

From Pheriche, we mostly walk-through lush rhododendron and juniper forests. The trail passes by Tengboche and Phunki Tenga. We may come across exotic birds on the way. From Phunki Tenga, we descend to Dudh Kosi River and cross a small suspension bridge. Further, we ascend to Namche Bazaar.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude3440

The trail from Namche Bazaar steeply descends through the forested path. You soon begin walking through dense forests, passing by remote settlement areas.

On the way, we cross numerous suspension bridges and reach Monjo. From here, crossing many bridges over Dudh Kosi, we reach Phakding village. The next part of the trail ascends to Lukla.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude2840

the Himalayas marks the end of 12 days of Everest base camp trekking.

Upon reaching Kathmandu, we'll transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu.

  • MealsB

Is the offered itinerary not suitable for you?

Looking for a customized itinerary? Reach out to our experts.

Map & Altitude Graph

12 Days Everest Base Camp Trek map

Inclusions

  • Domestic airport transfers
  • Meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner) on trek
  • Accommodation in lodges on trek
  • Experienced local trekking guide & porter ( 1 porter for each 2 trekkers)
  • Paper work, National park entry permits & TIMS permit
  • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality fees
  • Flight ticket from Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu with airport tax
  • Arrangement of emergency helicopter service (Paid by your travel insurance company)
  • Sleeping bag, down jackets and duffel bag, if Necessary (return after the trek)

Exclusions

  • Nepal entry visa fee
  • Any hotels, tours and meals in Kathmandu
  • Travel insurance (compulsory)
  • Your personal expenses, drink water, hot and cold drinks & bar bills
  • Laundry, telephone, hot shower & internet charge
  • Tips for the guide and porters
  • Anything not mentioned in included section

Add-Ons & Options

Single Traveller Supplement

For solo travellers, a mandatory single supplement cost of US $175.00 applies- on group trek

Group Departures

We at Outfitter Himalaya offers small group trek to 12 Days Everest Base Camp Trek. Find the fixed dates below to join the group trip and book your most suitable date.

The size for the group trek would be from 1 person to 12 people. If you are more than 12, contact us for the discounts and booking process.

If the offered dates are not suitable for you, or want to have private trip, Proceed booking from the right bar on your own date.

Start DateEnd DatePriceStatus 
Start DateStarts: ThursdayMay 02, 2024End DateEnds: MondayMay 13, 2024PricePrice Per PersonUS$1250StatusAvailable
Start DateStarts: MondayMay 06, 2024End DateEnds: FridayMay 17, 2024PricePrice Per PersonUS$1250StatusAvailable
Start DateStarts: FridayMay 10, 2024End DateEnds: TuesdayMay 21, 2024PricePrice Per PersonUS$1250StatusAvailable
Start DateStarts: TuesdayMay 14, 2024End DateEnds: SaturdayMay 25, 2024PricePrice Per PersonUS$1250StatusAvailable
Start DateStarts: SaturdayMay 18, 2024End DateEnds: WednesdayMay 29, 2024PricePrice Per PersonUS$1250StatusAvailable
Start DateStarts: WednesdayMay 22, 2024End DateEnds: SundayJun 02, 2024PricePrice Per PersonUS$1250StatusAvailable
Start DateStarts: SundayMay 26, 2024End DateEnds: ThursdayJun 06, 2024PricePrice Per PersonUS$1250StatusAvailable
Start DateStarts: ThursdayMay 30, 2024End DateEnds: MondayJun 10, 2024PricePrice Per PersonUS$1250StatusAvailable

FAQs

  • Q1. How Difficult is 12-Day Everest Base Camp Trek?

    Everest base camp trek – 12 Days is considered moderate. The trail does not have strenuous climbing or technical sections, which makes it ideal for beginner trekkers. Do not underestimate the high altitude, long ascends & descends basic facilities, and rough trails. You'll get tired of walking, and your sore body will challenge your mind at every step.

    You can bypass previous trekking experiences to join the 12 Days Everest base camp trekking. However, you have to be fit and ready to endure all the challenges the journey throws at you. Similarly, the risk of altitude sickness is also there all the time.

  • There's nothing called being over-prepared when it comes to traveling in the Himalayas. So, take your time and do your research to prepare for the Everest base camp 12 Days trekking. Our team will provide you with the packing list and help you get ready for the trek physically & mentally by providing all the important information.

    • Do some light training to build your stamina and go on short hikes. You can also go on long walks regularly.
    • You can opt to buy or rent heavy trekking essentials in Thamel, Kathmandu.
    • Meet with your doctor and learn about altitude sickness.
    • Let us know if you have any prior medical history that may affect your trek in the Himalayas. We have to be ready to tackle any possible medical emergency.
    • Do not trek in new trekking shoes. You'll regret it.
  • During a 12-day trek to Everest Base Camp, you'll spend most of your nights in local tea houses/guesthouses along the trail. These accommodations are basic and provide a comfortable place to rest and recover after a day of hiking.

    The tea houses typically offer twin bedrooms with shared bathrooms and simple meals such as soup, rice, and noodles. Some of the more popular and touristy stops along the route may offer attached bathrooms and more luxurious amenities, but it's important to keep in mind that facilities can be limited in remote mountain regions.

    It's also common for trekkers to bring a sleeping bag as bedding is not always provided. It's a good idea to bring own toiletries as well, as these items may be difficult to find or purchase along the trail.

  • The 12-day Everest Base Camp Trek is considered a safe adventure, but like any outdoor activity, it comes with some inherent risks. The biggest risks on the trail include altitude sickness and inclement weather.

    However, if you're in good physical condition, acclimate properly, and follow the advice of your guide and local authorities, the chances of encountering serious problems are very low. Here are some tips to stay safe on the trail.

    • Gradually acclimate to the altitude: Make sure you give yourself enough time to adjust to the high altitude before reaching Base Camp. This can help prevent altitude sickness.
    • Hire a guide: A knowledgeable and experienced guide can help you navigate the trail and provide valuable advice on how to stay safe.
    • Carry the necessary equipment: Bring the appropriate clothing and gear for the conditions, including a warm sleeping bag, a good backpack, and sturdy hiking boots.
    • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol, as it can worsen symptoms of altitude sickness.
    • Be aware of the weather: Check the forecast regularly and be prepared for sudden weather changes.
    • Follow the rules: Stick to the established trail and avoid taking shortcuts, which can increase your risk of getting lost or encountering other dangers.

    By following these tips and being prepared, you can help ensure a safe and successful trek to Everest Base Camp in 12 days.

  • During a trek to Everest Base Camp, hot showers are generally available in the tea houses/guesthouses along the trail and the tea houses offer cold and hot water bucket showers on shared washrooms.

    However, the availability and quality of hot showers can also vary depending on the time of year and the location, so it's best to check with your guide or the tea house owner in advance.

  • Yes, it's strongly recommended that you have comprehensive travel insurance for your trek to Everest Base Camp. Travel insurance can provide protection for a variety of situations that can arise while traveling, that include the following:

    • Medical emergencies: High-altitude trekking can pose health risks, and medical care can be limited in remote areas. Travel insurance can cover medical expenses and evacuation costs if you become sick or injured.
    • Trip cancellations or delays: Travel insurance can provide coverage if you need to cancel your trip due to illness, a family emergency, or other unforeseen circumstances.
    • Lost or stolen luggage: If your luggage or personal belongings are lost or stolen, travel insurance can provide coverage for their replacement or reimbursement.
    • Trip interruption: If you have to cut your trip short for any reason, travel insurance can provide coverage for non-refundable expenses and additional transportation costs.

    Having travel insurance can give you peace of mind and financial protection during the Everest Base Camp 12 days. When choosing a travel insurance policy, make sure to read the fine print and understand what is covered and what is not. We also advise you to bring a copy of your policy with you on the trail, in case you need to make a claim while you're away.

  • The best time to trek to Everest Base Camp depends on your personal preferences and the specific conditions you are looking for. Generally, the two main trekking seasons are the spring (March to May) and the autumn (September to November).

    Spring is the best time for Everest Base Camp Trek 12 days if you want to see the rhododendron forests in full bloom and enjoy clear views of the mountain. The weather is usually stable and warm during the day, but night time temperatures can still be cold.

    Autumn is another good time for the Everest Base Camp Trek 12 days, as the monsoon season has ended and the skies are generally clear. This season offers excellent visibility, but night time temperatures can drop significantly.

    The monsoon season runs from June to August, and trekking during this time can be challenging due to heavy rainfall and leech-infested trails. Winter (December to February) can also be harsh, with high winds and sub-zero temperatures making the trail more difficult, However if you can bear the cold temperature and have few extra days, you can the Everest Base camp Trek whole throughout the year.

  • Yes, visiting Everest Base Camp is an once-in-a-lifetime experience for many people. It is one of the most iconic destinations for trekkers and mountaineers, offering breathtaking views of the world's highest peak, Mount Everest, and the surrounding Himalayan mountain range. The journey to the base camp itself is a challenging trek, but the scenery along the way is truly awe-inspiring, making it a unique and rewarding adventure.

    However, it's important to keep in mind that the trek to Everest Base Camp is physically demanding and requires a certain level of fitness and preparation. You should also consider the environmental impact of visiting the area and take steps to minimize your footprint. Additionally, it's important to be aware of the risks associated with high-altitude trekking and to plan your trip carefully with a reputable trekking company.

    Overall, if you are an adventurous traveler who is up for a challenge, visiting Everest Base Camp can be a truly unforgettable experience.

  • The temperature at Everest Base Camp can vary greatly depending on the time of year and the weather conditions. During the peak trekking season, which is from late September to early November, the temperature can range from -10°C to -20°C (14°F to -4°F) during the day, and can drop to well below -20°C (-4°F) at night. In the colder months, from December to February, the temperature can be even lower, reaching as low as -40°C (-40°F) at night.

    It's important to note that these temperatures are a rough estimate and can vary greatly based on the specific weather conditions in the area at any given time.

    Additionally, the temperature can feel much colder at higher altitudes due to the combination of low air pressure and strong winds. As a result, it's important to be well-prepared with warm, high-quality clothing and equipment when trekking to Everest Base Camp.

Client Reviews

  • 5/5

    One of the best trek experience

    Just returned from the Everest Base Camp Trek with Outfitters Himalaya. One of the best trek experience my sis and i have had. Of the many tour agencies i reached out to, Arjun was very responsive, patient and knowledgeable. He was never pushy and was able to provide us with information that we required which gave us alot of comfort. The trek was very smooth from start to end and everything was well arranged. We also had the opportunity to trek with our guide, Pralad and porter, Sarude.

    Both of whom were excellent and attentive. We were well taken care of throughout the trip - for example, because it was so cold, Pralad made sure to request for rooms which could get some sunlight (thus warmer) at the guesthouses as well as got us extra blankets. I also ended up getting altitude sickness and had to be heli evacuated. Arjun and Pralad were very helpful and made the necessary transport and hospital arrangements.

    Arjun constantly checked in when i was warded and i was able to recover without having to worry about the administrative matters.

    Would definitely trek with Outfitters Himalaya again when i am in Nepal.

    J
    JeannetteFrom: Singapore,Dec 07, 2023
    TrustPilot
  • 5/5

    Conquering Base Camp Everest

    My husband and I did the Base Camp Everest 12-day trek and although it was hard work, it was incredibly worthwhile. Suraj & Bhim were amazing tour guides and did everything in their power to ensure we all made it successfully to Base Camp and back again. They were gentle, kind, and knowledgeable and helped steer us towards achieving our goal.

    The porters were incredibly lovely too and even assisted with the scrambling over rocks right at the end so that I wouldn't sprain my ankle due to fatigue. We were a group of varying ages and fitness levels and not once were the slower people (me) made to feel like we were holding everyone up. Bhim in particular stayed back with us and was always very encouraging of the progress we made.

    The guides reacted quickly and with grace as obstacles were put in our path and I not only loved the trip, the people we met, and the incredible guides too.

    J
    Jo GFrom: Australia,May 31, 2022
    TripAdvisor

    Dear Jo,

    Thank you for taking your time to post excellent review on our website and It is our great pleasure to know that you have successful trek to Everest Base camp Trek with us and satisfied with our services and team.

    Wish you to have great days ahead and wish to serve you next time.

    Arjun

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