Everest Marathon Trek - 18 days is a unique high-altitude adventure that combines trekking to EBC with running art on the legendary Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon.
The Everest Marathon follows the world’s highest marathon route from the Everest Base Camp through Sherpa villages and offers cultural immersion, an endurance challenge, and breathtaking Himalayan scenery. The trip is ideal for runners, trekkers, and adventure seekers seeking a once-in-a-lifetime Everest experience.
The Everest Marathon Trek is a rare and powerful journey that combines classic Everest trekking with participation in the world’s highest marathon – the legendary Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon. This 18-day adventure is not about running; it is a carefully paced high-altitude endurance experience that takes you deep into the heart of the Khumbu region, following the iconic route from Everest Base Camp to Namche Bazaar.
Unlike the standard Everest Base Camp trek, this itinerary is designed especially for marathon participants and endurance enthusiasts. It allows ample time for gradual acclimatization, cultural immersion, and physical preparation before race day. The journey unfolds through Sherpa villages; ancient monasteries, glacial valleys, and dramatic Himalayan landscapes, offering an authentic connection to the people and terrain that make the Everest region legendary.
The highlight of the trek is Marathon Day, where runners descend from Everest Base Camp through rugged trails, moraine paths, suspension bridges, and alpine settlements – an extraordinary test of stamina set against some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery on Earth. Even for non-competitive runners, simply following and witnessing this historic event is an unforgettable achievement.
Designed for marathon runners, endurance athletes, adventure travelers, and Everest enthusiasts, the Everest Marathon Trek balances challenge with safety, preparation with adventure, and performance with cultural discovery. It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the Everest region not just as a destination, but as a personal milestone.
A Tribute to Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa
The Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon is the World’s highest-altitude marathon, held annually on May 29 to commemorate the first ascent of Mount Everest by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay in 1953. Unlike city marathons, it is a high-altitude endurance race set entirely in the Himalayas, which combines extreme terrain, thin air, and profound cultural landscapes.
The marathon starts at Everest Base Camp (5,364m) and descends through the Khumbu region to Namche Bazaar (3,440m). The marathon route follows classic Everest trails- glacial moraines, rocky paths, forested descents, and suspension bridges, making it one of the most demanding and scenic marathon courses on Earth.
The Everest Marathon is not just about speed. It’s a test of endurance, altitude adaptation, and mental strength. Participants come from around the World, ranging from elite runners to experienced endurance athletes who prepare for months to handle the altitude and rugged terrain. Many trekkers and supporters also join the journey to witness and experience the event alongside the runners.
Participation in the Everest Marathon requires a structured trekking approach to acclimate safely to altitude. That’s why the Everest Marathon Trek (18 Days) is designed as a complete experience – guiding participants step by step from Kathmandu to Everest Base Camp, preparing both body and mind for marathon day.
The event attracts:
In essence, the Everest Marathon is a celebration of human endurance in the world’s most iconic mountain setting, and the trek that accompanies it transforms the race into a life-defining Himalayan adventure.
The Everest Marathon is not just about reaching Everest Base Camp, and it’s also about earning the journey, preparing for the challenge, and becoming part of one of the most extraordinary endurance events on Earth.
The Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon was first organized in 2003 to honor the historic ascent of Mount Everest by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa on May 29, 1953. Since then, the event has been held annually on the same date, turning a moment of mountaineering history into a global celebration of human endurance.
When the Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon was first proposed, it quickly gained international recognition. Athletes from around the world began traveling to Nepal not just to compete, but to experience the Everest region in a way few have ever done. Over the years, the marathon evolved into a symbol of resilience, cultural respect, and adventure, deeply rooted in the Khumbu region and supported by local Sherpa communities.
Unlike conventional road marathons, the Everest Marathon has always emphasized preparation and acclimatization. Participants must trek to Everest Base Camp over several days before race day, reinforcing the Philosophy that success at altitude comes from patience, respect for the mountains, and physical readiness.
Today, the event is recognized as:
For many runners and trekkers alike, taking part in the Everest Marathon – whether as a competitor or supporter is not about winning, but about becoming part of a living Himalaya legacy.
The Everest Marathon Trek is far more than a high-altitude race; it is a multi-layered Himalayan experience that blends endurance, culture, scenery, and history. Find some of the key attractions and moments that make the trek one of the most extraordinary adventure journeys in the world.
You will reach Everest Base Camp (5,364m), a defining moment of the trip. The base camp is set beneath the Khumbu Icefall, an iconic site not only the start point of the marathon but also the heart of Himalayan mountaineering. You will stand among expedition tents with Everest above, which delivers a powerful sense of achievement and connection to decades of climbing history.
The highlight of the trip is to participate in the Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon, which descends from Everest Base Camp to Namche Bazaar. The Everest Marathon route crosses glacial moraines, rocky trails, suspension bridges, and forested paths, which offer an endurance challenge unmatched anywhere on Earth. It is a rare opportunity to experience sport at an extreme altitude within a living mountain landscape.
A hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m) rewards you with one of the best close-up views of Mount Everest, Nuptse, and the Khumbu Glacier. The sunrise or sunset view becomes the most photographed and emotionally resonant moment of the entire trek.
The trail passes through traditional Sherpa settlements such as Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, and Lobuche. You experience daily life in the mountains, stone houses, prayer wheels, mani walls, and warm hospitality.
Set against a dramatic mountain backdrop, the Tengboche Monastery is the most important Buddhist center in the Everest region. Visiting the monastery provides insights into Sherpa spirituality and the deep respect local communities hold for the mountains.
As the trek ascends, the landscape transforms from forested valleys to stark alpine terrain. You walk alongside the Khumbu Glacier, cross moraines, and witness the raw geological forces that define the Himalayas.
One of the most striking experiences of the Everest Marathon Trek is the rapid change in scenery, which you will experience from green river valleys and pine forests to barren, wind-swept highlands. This contrast highlights Nepal’s extraordinary geographical diversity.
Completing this Everest Marathon, especially around marathon day, is a profound personal milestone. The combination of altitude, endurance, preparation, and perseverance makes the journey as much mental and emotional as it is physical.
Every day presents iconic photo moments: the suspension bridges draped with prayer flags, snow-capped peaks at dawn, runners descending through mountain villages, and the vibrant energy of Namche bazaar.
Few journeys in the world combine high-altitude trekking, a historic endurance event, deep cultural immersion, and iconic mountain scenery in a single itinerary. It’s an experience that leaves a lasting imprint long after you return home.
The Everest Marathon Route is one of the most demanding and unique marathon courses in the world, not because of speed, but because of altitude, terrain variation, and environmental extremes. Understanding the route and what it feels like to move through it is essential for both runners and adventure trekkers.
The marathon begins at Everest Base Camp (5,364m) and descends to Namche Bazaar (3,440m), covering rugged Himalayan trails rather than paved roads. This downhill profile may sound easier, but the terrain's technical nature and altitude make it a true endurance challenge.
The route follows the classic Everest trekking trail, passing through Gorak Shep, Lobuche, Dingboche, Pangboche, Tengboche, and several smaller settlements before finishing in Namche.
At the starting line, oxygen levels are nearly 50% lower than at sea level. Even with a descending route, runners must manage:
The Everest Marathon Trek includes multiple acclimatization days before race day – allowing the body to adapt safely and effectively.
The route is highly varied and constantly changing:
There are no flat, predictable stretches; each kilometre demands focus, balance, and adaptability.
Supporters and trekkers follow the marathon route at a slower pace, witnessing runners pass through villages and high-altitude landscapes.
Weather on the route can vary dramatically:
The trail conditions can change daily, influenced by weather and foot traffic, making adaptability key.
Beyond physical effort, the route tests mental resilience. Navigating technical terrain at altitude requires constant concentration, pacing awareness, and self-management, making the Everest Marathon as much a mental journey as a physical one.
Reaching Namche Bazaar marks the completion of one of the world's most challenging marathon routes. The lively Sherpa town, set in a natural amphitheater, provides a powerful contrast to the stark high-altitude environment of the start, symbolizing both physical descent and personal triumph.
In summary, the Everest Marathon Route is not about chasing speed; it's about mastering altitude, terrain, and self-discipline in one of the most dramatic mountain environments on the planet.
Choosing the right company makes the difference between just completing a trip and transforming it into a safe, memorable, and life-defining experience. You are not just booking a trek; when you book a trek with Outfitter Himalaya, you also join a team with deep Himalayan expertise, an established local presence, and a proven safety–first approach.
The Everest Marathon Trek is not an ordinary trek; it combines a high-altitude trek, marathon preparation, and competitive performance. Outfitter Himalaya has extensive experience in designing and guiding multi-stage Himalayan journeys, especially those involving altitude progression, staged acclimatization, and physically demanding days.
Our guides don’t just lead the trail, they explain the environment, culture, terrain, and health considerations that matter most when running or trekking at altitude.
Altitude is the biggest challenge in the Everest Marathon Trek. Unlike many operators who rush itineraries, we emphasize scientific, well-paced acclimatization with dedicated rest days at:
Your health and summit success are always our priority, and our itinerary reflects that.
Outfitter Himalaya is a Nepal-based operator with deep roots in the Everest region and includes:
We help you connect meaningfully with Sherpa culture, Buddhist traditions, and mountain life and turn the trek into a holistic Himalayan experience.
We take care of all expedition details so you can focus on your goals:
No stress, no guesswork, just clarity and confidence from start to finish.
Your safety is paramount, and we emphasize:
From your first inquiry to final departure:
No hidden costs. No vague terms. Just trustworthy support and attention to detail.
When you book the Everest Marathon Trek with Outfitter Himalaya, you get:
We don’t just organize tours; we create meaningful, life-enriching Himalayan journeys that stay with you long after you return home.
Booking your Everest Marathon Trek with us is simple and transparent:
Early booking ensures smooth logistics, better flight options, and complete peace of mind.
When you book with Outfitter Himalaya, you receive:
We don’t just organize treks; we prepare you for a life-defining Himalayan challenge.
If you’re ready to combine high-altitude trekking, endurance sport, and Himalayan culture, the Everest Marathon Trek is your Ultimate adventure. Contact Outfitter Himalaya today to check availability, receive expert advice, and begin your journey toward one of the most extraordinary achievements on Earth.
Spaces are limited. Booking is highly recommended.
This 18-day Everest Marathon Trek is a carefully planned Himalayan Adventure journey that blends classic Everest trek, cultural immersion, and participation in the world’s highest marathon. The itinerary allows ample time to adapt to altitude through strategic rest days at Namche Bazaar and Dingboche.
You’ll trek through legendary Sherpa villages, visit sacred monasteries, stand at Everest Base Camp, hike to Kala Patthar, and finally take part in the iconic Everest Marathon. The Journey concludes with buffer days in Kathmandu to accommodate weather or flight delays, making the itinerary both ambiguous and well-designed.
Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to your hotel.
Kathmandu’s vibrant streets, prayer flags, and distant Himalayan views mark the beginning of your Everest Marathon adventure.
Today is for rest and recovery after a long flight to Nepal. You may explore the surrounding area, organize marathon gear, and relax. Optional visits to heritage sites can be arranged, and the day helps reset your body before heading into the mountains.
The scenic Kathmandu-Lukla flight takes you to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. From here, a gentle trek begins along the Dudh Koshi River toward Phakding.
This short hike lets your body begin to adapt while you enjoy your first views of the Khumbu landscape.
Today, the trail crosses suspension bridges and pine forests before climbing to Namche Bazaar.
As you gain altitude, the scenery becomes more dramatic. Namche is the bustling Sherpa capital, sits in a natural amphitheatre, and offers the first distant glimpse of Everest.
Today is a rest day to acclimate to altitude, and you will have a short hike to nearby viewpoints to help stimulate acclimatization.
Namche’s bakeries, gear shops, and cultural atmosphere provide a comfortable place to rest while preparing for higher elevations.
Today, the trail contours along the right ridgelines, which offer panoramic mountain views, before descending to Tengboche.
Here, you visit the most important monastery, set against a dramatic Himalayan backdrop, a spiritual highlight of the trek.
The landscape becomes more alpine from today.
You will pass through Pangboche and stone-walled fields to reach Dingboche. The village of Dingboche is a high-altitude settlement surrounded by peaks and open valleys.
Today is another crucial rest day in Dingboche.
Doing a short hike to the surrounding ridges helps your body adapt to thinner air. This day plays a major role in preparing for the Everest Base Camp and Marathon.
Today, the trail climbs steadily through glacial valleys and memorial sites, and the environment becomes stark and powerful, reminding you that you are now deep in the high Himalaya.
Today, you trek along the edge of the Khumbu Glacier to Gorak Shep, then hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m).
Kalapattar viewpoint offers one of the closest and most iconic views of Mount Everest, Nuptse, and the Khumbu Icefall – an emotional highlight of the Journey.
Today you reach Everest Base Camp (5,364m). The atmosphere is charged with excitement as marathon participants gather in base camp.
The expedition tents, prayer flags, and views of the icefall create a powerful setting at Base Camp.
You will have a marathon brief, gear check, and mental preparation.
A full day dedicated to Marathon briefing, route explanation, gear check, and mental preparation. Participants rest, hydrate, and focus on pacing strategies for the next day.
This calm before the challenge is essential for a safe and successful marathon.
Today is the core highlight of the entire Journey. Marathon day begins as runners descend from Everest Base Camp through rugged Himalayan terrain toward the Namche Bazaar.
The route passes glacial moraines, villages, forests, and suspension bridges; it is an unparalleled experience set in the world’s most dramatic mountain environment.
After the marathon, you continue to descend to Phakding.
The lower altitude brings warmth, greenery, and relief. This day focuses on recovery and enjoying the changing landscape.
Today is the final day to retrace Lukla. You will celebrate and reflect on the end of your Himalayan journey.
You will have a morning flight back to Kathmandu; then the remainder of the day is free to rest, explore, or enjoy a celebratory dinner.
Today is the contingency day to accommodate weather-related flight delays or extra rest. If unused, it can be spent sightseeing, shopping, or relaxing.
We will transfer you to the international airport for your onward flight home, concluding your Everest Marathon trek -18 days with lifelong memories of endurance, culture, and Himalayan achievement.
The Everest Marathon Trek is the high-difficulty adventure that combines high-altitude trekking with one of the most demanding endurance events in the world. While the trekking pace before marathon day is gradual and well-structured, the overall journey requires strong physical condition, mental resilience, and respect for altitude.
The Everest Marathon Trek is significantly more demanding than a standard Everest Base Camp trek, combining altitude, endurance, and marathon participation.
Participants should:
The Everest Marathon Trek itinerary includes strategic acclimatization days at Namche Bazaar and Dingboche, significantly reducing altitude-related risks. Experienced guides, porters, and marathon logistics support are in place throughout the journey.
In summary, the Everest Marathon Trek is best suited for fit, well-prepared adventurers who seek a true physical and mental challenge in the Everest region, where preparation matters more than pace.
The Everest Marathon Trek takes place in a high-altitude Himalayan environment, where safety, health awareness, and proper acclimatization are essential. The Everest Marathon journey is carefully structured to minimize risks while allowing participants to perform at their best.
During the Everest Marathon Trek, you will reach elevations above 5,000 meters, which include Everest Base Camp (5,364m) and Kala Patthar (5,545m). At these heights, oxygen levels are significantly lower, which can affect breathing, energy levels, and recovery.
To manage this safety, the itinerary includes:
While not everyone experiences altitude sickness, it can affect anyone, regardless of fitness level, and common symptoms may include headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, or loss of appetite.
Our approach focuses on:
Your guides monitor participants closely throughout the trek.
Participants should arrive with:
High altitude combined with physical effort can also be mentally demanding. Staying positive, pacing yourself, and following the guide's instructions are crucial to completing the journey safely and successfully.
In summary, with proper acclimatization, professional support, and responsible pacing, the Everest Marathon Trek is a challenging yet safe adventure.
The best time to join the Everest Marathon Trek is late May, when the legendary Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon is held. This timing is carefully chosen to balance weather stability, trail conditions, and acclimatization needs in the Everest region.
This is the only period when the full Everest Marathon experience is available.
For those aiming to participate in or witness the Everest Marathon, late May is the only and best time. The event-driven schedule, combined with favourable spring conditions, makes the period ideal for a safe, successful, and unforgettable Everest Marathon Trek.
The Everest Marathon Trek is an 18-day high-altitude adventure that combines the EBC Trek with participation in the Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon.
The 18-Day Itinerary includes gradual acclimatization, trekking to Everest Base Camp, marathon preparation, and the marathon run from Everest Base Camp to Namche Bazaar.
No, you do not need to be a professional athlete, but you must have strong endurance fitness and prior experience in long-distance running, trail running, or high-altitude trekking. The focus is on completion and safety, not speed.
The Everest Marathon Trek is considered challenging due to high altitude, rugged terrain, and the marathon component.
However, with proper acclimatization days in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche, the trek is manageable for well-prepared, fit participants.
This makes it the highest-altitude marathon route in the world.
Yes, altitude sickness is a potential risk. However, our Itinerary includes gradual ascent and dedicated acclimatization days. Our guide closely monitors participants and ensures safety protocols are followed.
The Everest Marathon is held every year on May 29, commemorating the first ascent of Mount Everest by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay in 1953. Late May is therefore the best and only time to participate in the full Everest Marathon Trek.
Accommodation is primarily in comfortable mountain teahouses during the trek, hotels in Kathmandu, and a tented camp at Base Camp for 2 nights. Rooms are usually twin-share, clean, and suitable for high-altitude trekking.
Meals during the trek typically include nutritious local and international dishes such as rice, lentils, vegetables, pasta, soups, eggs, and Tibetan bread. Special attention is given to hydration and energy-rich meals during marathon preparation.
Yes, travel insurance is mandatory and must cover:
Yes, when organized by an experienced operator like Outfitter Himalaya, the trek is conducted with strong safety standards, trained guides, acclimatization planning, and emergency protocols.
Yes, non-runners can join as supporters or trekkers, following the same route and experiencing the Everest Marathon atmosphere without participating in the race itself.
The full Everest Marathon Trek takes 18 days, including arrival, acclimatization, marathon preparation, race day, descent, and buffer days for weather or flight delays.
Outfitter Himalaya offers expert planning, local Himalayan experience, proper acclimatization, transparent communication, and marathon-specific support, ensuring a safe, meaningful, and well-organized Everest Marathon experience.
