Everest Base Camp Trek: A complete Guide

The Everest Base Camp trek is one of the most iconic and popular treks in the world. Located in the Solukhumbu district of eastern Nepal, this epic journey takes you through rugged terrain and towering peaks to the base camp of Mount Everest, the highest mountain on Earth. This complete guide covers key details about the Everest Base Camp trek to help you plan and prepare for this incredible adventure.

Route and Itinerary

The Everest Base Camp trek typically starts with a short flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. From Lukla, the route follows the Dudh Kosi river valley to the highland Sherpa capital of Namche Bazaar. Further along, you pass through quaint villages like Tengboche and Dingboche, with a couple days set aside for acclimatization. The last few days take you over rocky moraines to Gorak Shep and finally Everest Base Camp. You then make your way back, usually descending via a different route for more diversity. The classic Everest Base Camp route is about 130 km long over 12-14 days. Here is a sample 14-day Everest Base Camp itinerary:
Day 1: Fly to Lukla, trek to Phakding
Day 2-3: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (acclimatization day)
Day 4: Namche Bazaar to Tengboche
Day 5: Tengboche to Dingboche
Day 6: Acclimatization day in Dingboche
Day 7: Dingboche to Lobuche
Day 8: Lobuche to Gorak Shep, visit Everest Base Camp
Day 9: Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar and back, overnight in Gorak Shep
Day 10: Extra contingency day
Day 11-14: Return along a lower route back to Lukla
This is just a sample itinerary, which can be customized based on your interests, fitness level and time constraints. Most reputed guides will build in adequate rest and acclimatization days.

Altitude Sickness and Safety Tips

The Everest Base Camp trek reaches altitudes over 5,300 meters where lack of oxygen can cause altitude sickness. Symptoms like headaches, nausea and shortness of breath are common. More severe cases can lead to pulmonary or cerebral edema, which require immediate descent. Here are some tips to prevent and manage altitude sickness:

Ascend slowly above 3,000 meters – limit increase to 300-500m per day
Include acclimatization days where you stay at the same altitude
Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol
Eat light, high carbohydrate meals
Avoid overexertion
Listen to your body and never ignore warning signs
Always carry Diamox (acetazolamide) which helps alleviate symptoms
Descend immediately if symptoms persist or worsen

Having a guide experienced with altitude sickness is also recommended for prompt response if required.

Preparation and Planning

Proper preparation is key to having a safe and memorable trek. Some important aspects to plan and train for include:
Fitness: The Everest Base Camp trek requires good cardio fitness to trek 5-6 hours daily for 2 weeks. Prior conditioning with cardio and strength training will help immensely.
Gear: Get properly insulated boots, performance outdoor clothing and backpack. Test gear before the trek.
Insurance: Get evacuation insurance covering altitudes up to 6,000 meters. Read policy documents carefully.
Immunizations: Consult your doctor and get necessary immunizations for vaccine preventable diseases in Nepal.
Medications: Carry medications for altitude sickness, pain relief, antibiotics etc. Discuss requirements with your doctor.
Permits: Hire a guide to arrange permits for Sagarmatha National Park and other necessary clearances.
Weather: Best seasons are March-May and October-December. Research expected temperatures and weather patterns. With the right preparation, anyone in good health and physical condition can complete this trek for the experience of a lifetime!

Accommodation and Food

The Everest region has excellent network of local lodges and tea houses to serve trekkers. You can expect simple twin sharing rooms with basic furnishings like beds, mattresses and blankets. Some higher end lodges also provide hot showers and charging facilities. Common washrooms have toilets and sinks to freshen up. While service is basic by western standards, these teahouses provide a peek into Sherpa culture and warm hospitality. All lodges serve filling meals consisting largely of local produce like dal-bhat-tarkari (lentils, rice and vegetables) and Tibetan breads. Menu tends to get more limited at higher altitudes closer to base camp. It helps to carry your own snacks. Overall, the twin sharing rooms with common washrooms and wholesome local meals give you the perfect experience to complete this trek.