Everest Base Camp Trek by Road

Duration: 18 Days
At a Glance
  • Duration 18 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • Destination Nepal
  • Start/End KTM/KTM
  • Group Size 1-12
  • Max. Altitude 5545

Highlights

  • No Lukla flight, instead drive to Salleri from Kathmandu and begin trekking from Thandada to Everest base camp
  • Enjoy a less crowded and offbeat trail at the start of the journey and later join the mainstream EBC trek route
  • Trek through lush rhododendron and pine forests, crossing numerous suspension bridges and small mountain passes
  • Spend nights in beautiful Sherpa villages and get to see their daily lifestyle
  • Visit ancient monasteries along the trail and learn about the culture & traditions of the mountain communities
  • Adventurous side hikes to Hotel Everest View, Nagarjuna Hill, and Kala Patthar
  • Trek via glacier fields and glacial paths on the upper part of the trail
  • Witness a diverse range of flora and fauna, stunning landscapes, and jaw-dropping mountain panoramas
  • Less risk of altitude sickness as this itinerary provides ample time to adjust to the elevation and environment
  • Perfect EBC trek package for trekkers of all ages

Everest Base Camp Trek by Road Overview

Are you excited about embarking on the Everest Base Camp trek but prefer a less explored route with fewer concerns about Lukla flight issues?

If your answer is yes, then our exclusive Everest Base Camp trek by road package could be the perfect choice for you. While most treks in the Everest region begin with a short flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, this package offers a unique twist. Instead, you will enjoy a picturesque drive from Kathmandu to Salleri, the district headquarters of Solukhumbu.

By opting for this alternative route, you will have the opportunity to experience a different side of the Everest region. The trek will take you through lesser-known trails, providing a sense of adventure and discovery as you make your way toward the base camp. You'll be able to enjoy breathtaking views, untouched natural beauty, and a tranquil environment compared to the busier EBC trekking route.

In addition to the advantages of this less explored path, you can also avoid potential flight-related challenges that often arise when flying to Lukla. The scenic drive from Kathmandu to Salleri offers a more reliable and predictable mode of transportation, ensuring a smoother start to your trekking adventure in the beautiful Everest region.

Our Salleri to Everest Base Camp trek package is meticulously designed to cater to your needs and provide an unforgettable experience. Along the way, you'll have the guidance and support of our experienced mountain guide, who will ensure your safety and comfort throughout the journey.

Views & cultural experiences during the trek

As the trek unfolds, you'll be enchanted by the allure of the trail. Passing through small streams and traversing hilly gorges, you'll find yourself surrounded by magnificent pine and rhododendron forests. One of the highlights of this route is the close-up view of Numbur Himal. The dense forests open up to terraced fields and meadows. And once we are above the tree line, the region gets barren and rocky.

Numerous mountains, hills, waterfalls, and glaciers are seen along the trail. From the highest mountain in the world, Mt. Everest (8,849 m), to Khumbu Glacier and Khumbu Icefall, the views are phenomenal. Some other iconic Himalayan mountains you will come across during this trek are Mt. Lhotse (8,516 m), Mt. Ama Dablam (6,812 m), Mt. Makalu (8,481 m), Mt. Nuptse (7,861 m), Mt. Thamserku (6,608 m), Mt. Pumori (7,161 m), Mt. Cholatse (6,440 m), etc.

The traditional villages you encounter along the way provide a glimpse into the local way of life, adding cultural richness to your experience. Every step you take reveals an amazing backdrop that serves as a constant reminder of the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas. Tengboche Monastery (3,867 m) and Pangboche Monastery (3,985 m) are two significant monasteries you will visit while trekking.

The locals are very welcoming and friendly. You will experience the mountain lifestyle first-hand and also get to see villagers' daily life. Our guide will help you interact with the villagers and share interesting stories and myths surrounding the villages. Along with Sherpas, the trek offers a glimpse of the culture and traditions of other mountain communities like Rai, Sherpa, Lama, Limbu, etc.

Acclimatization and altitude sickness

In addition to the excellent landscapes, this route offers practical advantages as well. By opting for this EBC trek via Salleri, you allow yourself to gradually acclimatize to the altitude. The longer duration and lower starting point of the trek allow for a more gradual ascent, giving your body ample time to adjust before reaching the Everest Base Camp.

This itinerary lowers the risk of altitude sickness, which is quite common on the Everest base camp trek. People of any age and experience can join us on this trek. Our expert guides will be there for you to take care of your health and well-being. Do not smoke or drink alcohol while trekking and keep yourself hydrated to avoid symptoms of altitude sickness.

Our Salleri to Everest Base Camp trek is a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and physical well-being!

Everest Base Camp Trek by Road Difficulty

Everest base camp trek by road makes the journey longer than the usual EBC trek. This is 18 days trek and you will be spending 14 days on the mountain. Every day, you have to walk for 6 hours on average. The starting few days of the trail go mainly through dense forests and follow winding rugged hillsides. As the itinerary is well-designed, you will get enough chances to rest and recover throughout the trek.

The later part of the trekking route is difficult because the trail gets steeper and rocky and navigates via glaciers. The facilities get limited after Dingboche village, and elevation also rises drastically. You may feel exhausted sooner than before due to the high altitude. Your determination to complete the trek and endurance plays a vital role. You have to be in good health and fitness to do this trek.

Itinerary

This Everest base camp trek by road in Nepal begins with a captivating drive that offers breathtaking views of lush green forests, gushing rivers, dramatic gorges, and terraced fields. The panoramic vistas will leave you in wonder as you make your way toward Salleri, the starting point of this incredible adventure. From Salleri (2,362 m), you will drive to Thandanda (1,686 m), from where the trek begins to Phakding village (2,610 m).

Crossing Sebuk Danda and Chotok La (2,945 m), the trail descends to Surkhe village. From here, the trail connects to the main route through Lukla. Further, on the way, we will cross a bridge over Tarhe Khola and trek via Ghat village to Phakding. The trail goes through dense forests and uneven cliffsides. From Phakding onwards, we will follow the popular Everest base camp trek route via Namche Bazaar (3,440 m), Tengboche (3,860 m), Dingboche (4,410 m), and Lobuche (4,940 m) villages.

While passing by these villages, we will cross many suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River, walk past small settlements, share the trail with yaks and mules, and visit ancient monasteries. After Dingboche village, the trail becomes more steep and rugged. We will cross a glacier field and pass by memorial stones to Lobuche village. From here, the trail gradually ascends to Gorak Shep (5,164 m) and finally leads to EBC (5,364 m).

After visiting Kala Patthar (5,545 m), we will drop down at Lobuche village and trek to Pheriche (4,371 m). Further, trekking through Namche Bazaar, we will continue to Thandanda via Surke village, where the trek ends. Like the start of the trek, we will drive to Salleri from Thandanda and take another long ride to Kathmandu.

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The representative of Outfitter Himalaya will pick you up from the Tribhuvan International Airport. We will transfer you to the hotel in a private vehicle. If you have any questions, feel free to ask our team. They will drop you at the hotel and help you check-in. You can explore the bustling streets of Thamel and return to your hotel for a good night's sleep.

  • Accommodation3 Star hotel
  • Max. Altitude1345

Today, we will take you on a guided sightseeing tour. Kathmandu is home to numerous historical sites, art galleries, and museums. One of our professional tour guides will take you around the tourist sites and introduce you to Nepali culture, tradition, and history. During the tour, we will visit places like Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Temple, Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudha Stupa.

By the end of the tour, you will find yourself in a busy local market. After the tour, the guide will drop you at the hotel. Our mountain guide will say hello to you, and we'll begin preparing for the trek. We will pack the duffel bags and do last-minute shopping.

  • MealsB
  • Accommodation3 Star hotel
  • Max. Altitude1345

We have a long ride to Salleri today. It will approximately take 9 to 10 hours to drive to Salleri from Kathmandu. The road is well-made, so the ride will be pretty smooth. On the way, we get to enjoy beautiful views of lush hills, forests, small settlements, and numerous terraced fields. After crossing the Sunkoshi River, the ride continues to the Okhaldhunga district. The later part of the drive offers views of Number Himal, including Mt. Everest.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude2360

After breakfast, we will leave Salleri in the morning and drive to Thandanda, the starting point of our trek. It is a six hours drive from Salleri. The ride offers authentic Nepali countryside views. We will see lush green hills, mountains, and waterfalls on the way. We will take plenty of rest and get ready to hit the trail the following day.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude2400

Today is our first day of the trek. We will be trekking to Phakding village on this day. The trail winds through forests and crosses Sebuk Danda and Chotok La 92,945 m). From Chotok La, descend 700 meters to Surke village and follow a trail on the western side to Lukla. We will pass by Gaikharka and Choplung and join the main trail to Phakding. Crossing Tarhe Khola, the trail walks past Ghat village and crosses a few more suspension bridges further on the way to Phakding.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude2610

From Phakding, the trail crosses a few suspension bridges and goes through rhododendron and magnolia forests to Monjo village. We will register our EBC trek permits here and continue trekking via Sagarmatha National Park. The trail gradually ascends via lush rhododendron and pine forests and small settlements. We will be trekking along the Dudh Koshi River, crossing it multiple times. The final ascent to Namche Bazaar is steep and rocky.

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

On this day, we will spend a rest day in Namche Bazaar. In the morning, hike to Hotel Everest View via Syangboche Airstrip and return to Namche Bazaar to spend the night. This will help us in acclimatization and avoid altitude sickness. Hotel Everest View is one of the highest luxury hotels in the world at 3,962 m (13,000 ft).

From here, we will see the first clear glimpse of Mt. Everest. The hike also offers views of other mountains like Thamserku, Khumbila, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, etc. While returning to Namche Bazaar, we will visit the Sherpa Culture Museum and Everest Photo Gallery.

Later spend the remaining day exploring the bustling market of Namche Bazaar and resting. Visit cafes and souvenir shops. Spend time with locals and enjoy delicious food. If you feel any discomfort, inform our guide immediately.

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

Leaving Namche Bazaar, we will walk on a flat trail for half an hour and ascend for one and a half hours to Kyanjuma. From here, we will trek through rhododendron forests and gradually descend to Phunki Tenga. The trail then follows a steep uphill path to Tengboche village. The trail winds along hillsides, offering stunning mountain landscapes.

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

The trail from Tengboche descends through lush rhododendron forests and passes by a nunnery. We will reach Deboche and cross a bridge over Imja Khola. From here, the trail ascends to Pangboche village, where we will visit an old monastery and continue trekking via lush forests to Syomare. The trail then gradually ascends via terraced fields to Dingboche village.

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

We’ll spend a rest day in Dingboche village. In the morning, we will hike to Nagarjuna hill. The trail is challenging and offers breathtaking mountain views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Cholatse, Makalu, and other towering peaks from the top. After the hike, we will retrace our steps back to Dingboche village. The remaining day is free to explore the village and rest.

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

The trail from Dingboche beyond takes us above the lush tree line and into a realm of glacial beauty. The trail descends and then ascends to a glacier field. We will gradually ascend to Dughla, passing by fluttering prayer flags and sacred stupas. Further, we will trek past memorial chortens and continue along the lateral moraine of Khumbu Glacier to Lobuche village.

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

From Lobuche village, the trail traverses alongside the Khumbu glacier. After trekking for more than one hour on a rugged path, the trail reaches Gorakshep. We will leave our backpacks here and have lunch and continue trekking to the Everest base camp. En route, we'll see breathtaking vistas of Nuptse, Pumori, and several other mountains.

Upon reaching Everest base camp, we will spend time looking around and taking pictures. After some time, we will trek back to Gorak Shep to spend the night, as there is no accommodation facility available for trekkers at the base camp. The mountain views are surreal on this day.

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

One of the most unforgettable highlights of the Salleri to Everest Base Camp trekking is the hike to Kala Pattar. As we ascend toward Kala Pattar, we'll find ourselves surrounded by a majestic mountain panorama. The iconic Mount Everest, along with its neighboring peaks, such as Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and many others.

After enjoying the views, we will trek back to Gorak Shep and have a warm breakfast. Now it is time to trek down to Pheriche. The trail retraces back to Lobuche village and then continues to Phediche village, offering stunning mountain views on the way.

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

The trail ahead leads us through a picturesque descent through the remote villages of Pangboche and Phunki Tenga. The trail goes through lush rhododendron forests and ascends from Phunki Tenga to Namche Bazaar. The mountain views along the way are fantastic.

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

Leaving Namche Bazaar, we will descend to Phakding village via lush forests, crossing numerous suspension bridges on the way. From Phakding, the trail heads to Ghat village and turns to Surke instead of Lukla. We will be following a forested path via small settlements.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude2500

Today is our last day of the trek. From Surke, we will trek back to Thandanda, from where we begin trekking. The trail gradually ascends and descends via small villages and crosses a pass. From Thandanda, we will hop on a local jeep and drive to Salleri for a night's stay.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude2400

After a delicious morning breakfast, we will drive back to Kathmandu on this day. The ride will be long and very beautiful. Upon reaching Kathmandu, we will drop you at the hotel. The rest of the day is free. Freshen up and meet us in the late evening for a farewell dinner. Explore the vibrant streets of Thamel for one last time, and do not forget to window shop in Thamel.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • Accommodation3 Star Hotel
  • Max. Altitude1345

Our representative will drop you at the Tribhuvan International Airport three hours before your flight departure time. He will pick you up from your hotel and help you with your luggage.

  • MealsB

Is the offered itinerary not suitable for you?

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

Map & Altitude Graph

Everest Base Camp Trek by Road map

Inclusions

  • Airport transfers
  • Three nights’ Accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
  • Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu
  • Meals during the trek with hot tea/coffee in breakfast
  • Sagarmatha national park entry permits and TIMS permit
  • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality fees
  • Jeep transportation (Local Jeep on Share basis) from Kathmandu-Salleri- thandada & return
  • Tea house/Lodge Accommodation during the trek on twin sharing
  • A guide and porters (1 porter for every two trekkers)
  • Arrangement of emergency helicopter service (which will be paid by travel insurance company)
  • Sleeping bag, down jackets, and duffel bag, if necessary and returned after the trek

Exclusions

  • Nepal Entry visa fee
  • Travel insurance (compulsory)
  • Meals (Lunch and Dinner) while you are in Kathmandu
  • Your personnel expenses/shopping
  • Entrance fees on Kathmandu tour
  • All the alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks
  • Sweet things like chocolate bars and bar bills
  • Hot shower, internet, telephone and laundry
  • International airfare
  • Tips for the guide and staffs
  • Anything not mentioned in the included section

Essential Info

Important Note on Everest Base Camp Trek by Road

  • The Everest Base Camp Trek by Road involves a long journey in a 4WD jeep, which means you should be prepared for a bumpy ride and the discomfort that comes with it.
  • The Everest Base Camp by road is not advisable during the monsoon season due to the heavy rainfall that can cause road conditions to deteriorate, making the journey challenging and potentially dangerous. It is recommended to plan your trek during a different time of year when road conditions are favorable.

Alternative trekking packages in Nepal

One of our other famous packages in the Everest region is the Everest base camp helicopter tour. It is a short 4 hours program perfect for travelers with time constraints or health issues. This package lets you witness aerial views of the Khumbu region, land at Kala Patthar, and enjoy a delicious breakfast at Everest View Hotel.

Likewise, here are some of our other adventurous trekking packages in Nepal- Annapurna circuit trek with Tilicho Lake, Upper Mustang trek, Annapurna base camp trek, Langtang Gosaikunda trek, and Manaslu circuit trek.

Please note that we also organize tailor-made treks. So you can contact us anytime for a private customized trek.

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