Embark on an adventurous yet short 10-day trek to Everest base camp with the expert team of Outfitter Himalaya. The Short Everest base camp trek package is crafted for trekkers with limited time. You will be accommodated in comfortable teahouses along the route and provided with nutritious meals to keep you energized. Supported by professional native guides, we assure you of a safe and memorable trekking experience in the Khumbu region.
Short Everest base Camp Trek Overview
The Short Everest base camp trek is the finest trekking route in the Himalayas. On this trek, you will get to witness five out of the ten highest mountains in the world- Mt. Everest (8,849 m/29,032 ft), Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586 m/28,169 ft), Mt. Lhotse (8,516 m/27,940 ft), Mt. Makalu (8,463 m/27,766 ft), and Mt. Cho Oyu (8,188 m/26,864 ft).
The Short Everest Base Camp trekking route goes through the homes of Sherpas and other friendly mountain communities like Rai, Lamas, Limbus, Bhotiyas, etc. You will also explore a diverse climatic zone, from lush rhododendron forests to glacial moraines. The beauty of the eastern Himalayas in Nepal, where Mount Everest is located, has won the hearts of millions of travellers worldwide.
The Short EBC trek is one of those trekking routes that attract hundreds of trekkers in every peak trekking season spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November).
To take the journey to the next level and save time, you can add a helicopter return from Kala Patthar to Lukla or Kathmandu at the end of the short EBC trek. This option allows you to avoid the long descent and flight back, and instead, enjoy a scenic helicopter ride over the Himalayas. Charter a private helicopter or join a group helicopter for a low per-head cost!
The Short Everest Base Camp trek route is adventurous and fun. You will trek following the lovely Dudh Koshi River, cross it numerous times as the trail proceeds. This river is the lifeline for the natives. The Short Everest base camp trek begins with a thrilling 35-minute flight to Lukla (2,845 m/9,334 ft). You will trek through the Dudh Kosi valley and then enter the Imja Khola valley.
The Sagarmatha National Park starts after Monjo village (2,835 m/9,301 ft). The trail ascends gradually, allowing for acclimatization, and descends via rhododendron and magnolia forests. Namche Bazaar (3,440 m/11,290 ft) is known as the tourist hub in the Khumbu region. The trail from here continues along rugged hillsides and forested hills.
After Namche Bazaar, the Tengboche (3,860 m/12,660 ft), Dingboche (4410 m/14470 ft), and Lobuche (4,940 m/16,210 ft) villages are the three main settlements. On the way, you may encounter pheasants, mules, yaks, blue sheep, musk deers, and Himalayan tahr. The trekking route has many stupas, chortens, and prayer wheels scattered.
Tengboche and Pangboche monasteries are the primary religious places you can explore on the short Everest base camp trek. Apart from them, many parts of the short Everest base camp trek route are fastened with colorful prayer flags, sending blessings on your way. Interactions with the locals along the trail and their unique lifestyle are some of the main aspects of Everest base camp trekking that make this journey memorable and unique.
Our short Everest base camp trek itinerary does not include acclimatization days, so the journey can become more challenging. However, with determination, anyone can do the ten-day trek with us. We have strategically planned the trek to allow for gradual altitude gain, reducing the risk of altitude sickness.
Short Everest base Camp Trek Highlights
- An adventurous yet short 10-day itinerary to Everest base camp
- Guided by our experienced native guide, a certified mountaineer who led numerous successful treks to Everest base camp, you can rest assured of a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.
- Thrilling Lukla flight with beautiful aerial views of the Himalayas
- Walk through lush rhododendron and magnolia forests along the Dudh Koshi River
- Cross many suspension bridges and walk via verdant gorges and uneven cliff sides
- Immerse yourself in the unique culture of the Himalayas with memorable interactions with Sherpas and other mountain communities.
- Your overnight stays in these lovely villages will be filled with fascinating stories and warm hospitality. Explore ancient monasteries, stupas shortens, and mani walls along the trail
- Navigate through glacier and loose rock fields, glacial moraines, and steep tracks
- Enjoy jaw-dropping mountain panoramas, gorgeous sunrises and sunsets, and diverse landscapes
- Reach the Everest base camp and be rewarded with a stunning view of the majestic Mt. Everest from Kala Patthar.
- This awe-inspiring sight is a testament to your determination and the beauty of the Himalayas
Major attractions of the short Everest base camp trek
A short itinerary to Everest base camp
The Everest base camp trek usually lasts 14 to 16 days, if you want to have the full pacakge, we have 16-day Itinerary. The package usually includes a helicopter flight at the end of the trek, which makes it expensive.
However, The EBC Short package allows you to do this ultimate trek in only ten days at an affordable price. We have not added the arrival/departure to Kathmandu to lower the package cost, so you must be in the city at least one day before the trek begins. Even though the itinerary is short, we have thoughtfully made it possible.
Best for mountain panoramas and diverse landscapes
Apart from the five highest mountains in the world, the short Everest base camp trek in Nepal lets you witness many other stunning peaks. Some of them are Thamserku (6,608 m/21,680 ft), Ama Dablam (6,812 m/22,349 ft), Nuptse (7,861 m/25,791 ft), Pumori (7,161 m/23,494 ft), Cholatse (6,440 m/21,130 ft), Chamlang (7,319 m/7,319 ft), etc. Likewise, the short Everest base camp trail sees a colossal elevation change, resulting in various landscapes.
At the start of the trek, you will see lush hills, gorges, rivers, and verdant valleys around you. As the trek progresses, you will find yourself amidst barren hills, glaciers, moraines, and towering snow-capped mountains. The diversity in the landscape keeps you motivated to reach the base camp.
Lush forests, beautiful valleys, rushing rivers, suspension bridges, and glacial moraines
The Short Everest base camp trek route is phenomenal. On this eco-friendly trek, you will enjoy nature at its best. The trail follows the Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will hike through rhododendrons and magnolia forests and pass by beautiful valleys and picturesque villages. Dudh Kosi River and Imja Khola are two major rivers along the trail, serving as a reminder of the importance of water conservation.
You will cross these rivers many times via thrilling suspension bridges. And towards the end of the trek, you will navigate glacier moraines and frozen streams. Overall, the trail is quite adventurous and lets you explore varied climatic zones.
Sherpas and their rich cultural heritage
Sherpas are the core of the Khumbu region. They are the leaders of trekking groups and climbing parties. The Short Everest base camp trail is also home to other mountain communities equally involved in the trekking and climbing sector of the Khumbu region. However, Sherpas are particularly famous for their strength and resilience.
On this trek, you will observe their lifestyle and beliefs closely. You can visit the Sherpa Culture Museum in Namche Bazaar, which provides an in-depth insight into their lives. The locals are friendly and welcoming. Thanks to their short yet sweet company, you will love your time in the mountains.
Reach the base of the highest mountain in the world- Everest base camp and hike to Kala Patthar
Everest base camp is the lap of Mt. Everest. At 5,364 meters (17,598 ft), it is the nearest you can get to the highest mountain in the world without climbing. Hundreds of trekkers travel here yearly, making the journey possible for everyone. During the peak climbing season, which coincides with the best trekking season, the base camp is usually packed with mountaineers' tents.
You will not spend the night at EBC and descend to Gorak Shep (5,164 m/16,942 ft). The view of the Khumbu Icefall from the base camp is surreal. Likewise, Kala Patthar (5,545 m/18,192 f) is the viewpoint and the highest point of our short Everest base camp trek for ten days. We hike here to witness a beautiful sunrise and a jaw-dropping mountain vista.
Escape from the bustle of city life and unwind by enjoying crisp Himalayan air
If you are tired of the cities noise and wish to escape somewhere far in nature, then a short Everest base camp trek in Nepal is one of the best options. There is no peace like the Himalayas. This adventurous journey will test your endurance and push your limits. At the same time, you will unwind and rejuvenate while trekking. The fresh Himalayan air will clear your thoughts, and the daily 6 -7 hours of walking with clean meals will help you get healthy.
- Day 01: Fly to Lukla and trek to Phakding
- Day 02: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar
- Day 03: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche
- Day 04: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche
- Day 05: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche
- Day 06: Trek from Lobuche to Gorek Shep and EBC and return to Gorek Shep
- Day 07: Hike to Kala Patthar and trek down to Pheriche
- Day 08: Trek from Pheriche to Namche Bazaar
- Day 09: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla
- Day 10: Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu
Find the detailed itinerary for the short Everest Base Camp Trek. This itinerary does not include arrival and departure days and acclimatization days. We recommend this program only for the experienced and fit trekkers. We have Everest Base Camp Trek for the beginners and Luxury Everest Base Camp Trek and Deluxe Everest Base Camp Trek for those looking more comfort on Everest region.
- Domestic airport transfers
- Meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) on trek
- Accommodation in lodges on trek on twin share basis
- An experienced, knowledgeable and helpful local trekking guide
- Paperwork, National Park entry permits and TIMS permit
- Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality fees
- Domestic 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)
- Seasonal fruits after dinner while on the trek
- Trip completion certificate, if you need
- T-shirt and trekking map
- A farewell dinner
- First Aid and oximeter
- Official expenses and service charge
- Nepal entry visa fee
- Any hotels, tours, and meals in Kathmandu
- Trekking porter (availabel in Add-on)
- Travel insurance (compulsory)
- Your expenses include water, hot and cold drinks and bar bills
- Laundry, telephone, hot shower and internet charge
- Tips for the guide and porters
- Anything not mentioned in the included section
Hire a Trekking porter
We suggest you to hire a porter to carry your bag pack while on trek, trekking with a light day pack is much easier and you enjoy your trekking holidays to the fullest. A trekking porter carries about 20-22 Kg (about 10-11 Kg from each of you), and we suggest to hire a porter in between of two trekkers.
The Short Everest base camp trek difficulty
The short Everest base camp trek is relatively moderate. The difficulty level ranges from mild to challenging. The elevation gain is serious, so you must be careful of altitude sickness. Every day, you will trek for 6- 8 hours on average. The distance covered during the short Everest base camp trek is approximately 120 kilometers (65 km on each side). The terrain is rough at the beginning but gradually gets steep and rugged. In Dingboche village, you will walk on small, loose rock and glacier fields.
You will trek through the lateral moraine of the Khumbu glacier and also navigate the rocky track before Gorak Shep and Everest base camp. The upper part of the trail is dusty so that you may get the infamous Khumbu cough. Cover your mouth and nose as much as possible.
The Short Everest Base Camp Trek does not have any acclimatization days. So, we recommend this itinerary only for the experienced trekkers who have previous trekking experiences in high altitude. We have some other program such as Everest Base Camp Trek return by Helicopter, Everest Base Camp Trek in Luxury Style, Everest Base Camp Trek 16 days, Everest Base Camp Trek by Road for beginners.
Altitude sickness on Short Everest Base Camp Trek
Altitude sickness happens during high-altitude journeys like the short Everest base camp trekking. It happens because of the low oxygen level at high altitudes and if your body does not acclimatize to the elevation.
Altitude sickness is expected on this trek and reasonably avoidable if you follow the precautions like-
- Drink plenty of water.
- Do not smoke or have alcoholic beverages.
- Take your time and maintain your pace.
- Eat proper nutritious meals and get at least 7 hours of sleep.
- Be aware of symptoms (headache, difficulty breathing, insomnia, vomiting, nausea, etc.) and seek appropriate first aid immediately.
Short Everest Base Camp trek preparation
To prepare for the short Everest base camp trek, do regular exercise. You can do strength training and cardio, like walking on the treadmill. Other activities such as cycling, swimming, running, and jogging are also helpful to increase your stamina and endurance. Likewise, if your trekking boots are new, buy them early and wear them to avoid blisters during the trek. Pack all the essentials and be ready for all kinds of weather.
Fitness for Short Everest Base Camp Trek
The Short Everest Base Camp Trek requires a moderate to strenuous fitness level. You need to trek daily for 3 to 8 hours. On this trek, you will reach an altitude of 5555above sea level, so physical fitness and good health are mandatory.
Meals and Drinks on Short Everest Base Camp Trek
Most meals are included in the Short Everest Base Camp Trek Cost and these meals are provided in lodges. You have breakfast and dinner at the lodges where you stay overnight, and lunch at the lodge is available along the Trail. A total of 27 meals (9 breakfast, 9 lunches and 9 dinners) are included in our package cost. Any hot and cold drinks are not covered in the packages however, they are available in the lodges and you are able to buy them yourself.
Travel insurance for Short Everest Base Camp Trek
Travel insurance is required to do the Short Everest Base Camp trek. In the case of any sickness, AMS, or injury during trekking, we do everything to transfer you to the nearest hospital. However, you will be entirely liable for all the expenses incurred in the evacuation/rescue. So, make sure that your insurance policy covers all these expenses.
Accommodation on the Short Everest Base Camp Trek
All the accommodation is included in the Short Everest Base Camp Trek Cost. There are nine nights of accommodation and the accommodation will be in local guest house/tea houses.
Guide and crew on Short Everest Base Camp Trek
We will provide you a trained and experienced trekking/hiking guide for the short Everest Base Camp trek to guide you. Porter is optional and we have not included on our package cost. Hire a porter is available to add on while making a booking with Outfitter Himalaya.
Yes, a beginner can trek to Everest base camp by doing this short trek with us. You must be fit and healthy for this short Everest base camp trekking.
This itinerary is a bit more demanding than the usual EBC trek because there are no acclimatization days. However, with our professional guide, you can complete this trek safely.
Solo trekking is possible in the Everest region of Nepal. However, solo trekking makes the Everest base camp trek very demanding. You must arrange all the accommodation, meals, permits, and transportation involved in the journey.
Instead, go for our private short Everest base camp trek and do this trek one-on-one with our native guide and porters.