Classic Everest Base Camp Trek

Altitude: 1,302 m / 4,269 ft.-Kathmandu

Driving Time: Approx. 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Accommodation: Hotel Tibet or similar

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu,, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative, who will be holding a “Nepal Sanctuary Treks” sign outside the terminal to greet you.

You will be transferred to your hotel in a private vehicle. After checking in and freshening up, our representative will meet you to give a detailed briefing on the upcoming itinerary, along with important safety guidelines and hygiene to ensure a smooth and safe trek.

Altitude: 2,575 m / 8,448 ft. Sete
Hiking Duration: Approx. 7–8 hours
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

We begin by descending from Bhandar through lush, dense forests, crossing several mountain streams and passing the quiet village of Dokharpa. Continuing along the trail, we reach the scenic Likhu Khola Valley and cross a second suspension bridge before starting a steady uphill climb to Kenja, a small settlement nestled at the base of the Lamajura La pass. From here, the ascent becomes more challenging, revealing views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks. After a few hours of steady climbing, we arrive at Chimbu. Taking the right-hand trail, we continue for another two hours to reach the peaceful village of Sete, where we spend the night in a local tea house surrounded by forested hills and mountain charm.

Altitude: 2,670 m / 8,760 ft. Junbesi
Hiking Duration: Approx. 7–8 hours
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

We begin the day with a steady uphill climb through a serene forest filled with pine, magnolia, maple, birch, and blooming rhododendrons. Passing through the charming villages of Dagchu and Goyem, we continue ascending to reach Lamjura La Pass (3,530 m / 11,581 ft), the highest point on the route between Jiri and Namche Bazaar. The pass, adorned with colorful Buddhist prayer flags, offers stunning panoramic views of surrounding green hills and remote ridgelines.

From the pass, we descend through lush woodland trails to reach Tragdobuk and eventually the scenic Sherpa village of Junbesi. This hidden gem is one of the most picturesque settlements before reaching Namche. The afternoon is free for exploration, allowing you to enjoy Junbesi’s traditional homes, monasteries, and peaceful atmosphere.

Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, we take a well-deserved rest day in Junbesi, one of the most culturally rich and scenic villages in the Solu region. This peaceful break offers time to explore nearby monasteries, traditional Sherpa homes, and surrounding forested hills.

A highly recommended side trip is the hike to Thubten Chholing Monastery, one of the largest and most spiritually significant Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in Nepal. Founded in the 1960s by the revered Lama Trulsik Rinpoche, the monastery became a sanctuary for monks and nuns fleeing Tibet. Even today, it remains an active monastic community where dozens of Anis (nuns) and monks live in quiet meditation.

The trail to Thubten Chholing starts near Junbesi Gompa, following the west bank of the Junbesi Khola upstream. After passing a Chorten and the Mopung powerhouse, we cross to the east bank and begin a gentle climb up the ridge to the monastery. The complex is surrounded by small retreat huts used for long-term meditation. After soaking in the tranquil, spiritual ambiance of Thubten Chholing, we retrace our steps back to Junbesi for a relaxing evening at the lodge.

Altitude: 2,250 m / 7,382 ft. Nunthala
Hiking Duration: Approx. 7 hours
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today’s trek begins with an ascent through forested trails as we head deeper into the Solu region of the Everest trail. Along the way, you’ll enjoy your first breathtaking glimpse of Mount Everest, appearing on the distant horizon beyond nearby peaks that initially seem even taller due to their proximity.

Cross the suspension bridge over Ringmo Khola, then ascend to the beautiful village of Ringmo, home to stunning examples of traditional Tibetan architecture. The colorful buildings and cultural elements here offer a glimpse into life in the high Himalayas.

From Ringmo, the trail descends through another dense, biodiverse forest, rich with native flora and fauna. The soothing sound of birds and rushing streams accompany you on the descent to Nunthala, a peaceful village where we rest for the night in a cozy teahouse, surrounded by serene mountain landscapes.

Altitude: 2,300 m / 7,546 ft. Bupsa
Hiking Duration: Approx. 6 hours
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Leaving Nunthala behind, the trail descends through a forested path until you reach the banks of the Dudh Koshi River, meaning “Milk River” in Nepali. As you cross the suspension bridge above its roaring, milky-white rapids, you’ll quickly understand how the river earned its name.

From here, the trail turns northward, following a steady ascent along the lush valley. The climb is gradual but continuous, with scenic views of terraced hillsides, small mountain villages, and vibrant greenery. After a fulfilling day of trekking, we arrive in Bupsa, a quiet village perched along the mountainside, where you’ll rest for the night in a welcoming teahouse surrounded by tranquil nature.

Altitude: 2,290 m / 7,513 ft. Surkhe
Hiking Duration: Approx. 6 hours
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today marks the beginning of a more consistently uphill journey as we gradually make our way toward Everest Base Camp. The trek kicks off with a steady climb through a lively forest filled with verdant foliage and playful monkeys, offering both shade and natural beauty.

As the trail ascends, the terrain begins to shift from dense greenery to open, more rugged hillsides. Along the way, you’ll pass a few remote mountain villages, giving you insight into daily life in these high-altitude settlements.

By the end of the day, we reach Surkhe, a peaceful village nestled just below the Lukla airstrip—a well-known starting point for trekkers flying in from Kathmandu. The altitude here provides a perfect spot to rest and acclimatize before joining the main Everest trekking route. Overnight stay at a local teahouse.

Altitude: 2,840 m / 9,318 ft. (Monjo)
Hiking Duration: Approx. 6 hours
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today’s trek takes us northward to Chaurikharka, a large, spread-out village known as the breadbasket of the Khumbu region. The fertile land here produces barley, wheat, and fresh green vegetables, supporting the local Sherpa community. The village features a monastery and a high school, offering a glimpse into daily life in the Everest region.

As we continue, the trail becomes noticeably busier with fellow trekkers returning from Everest Base Camp, alongside porters and pack animals. The vibrant trail leads us through beautiful mountain scenery, culminating in a pleasant few hours of walking to reach Monjo, a gateway village to Sagarmatha National Park. Overnight stay at a cozy teahouse lodge.

Altitude: 3,445 m / 11,302 ft. Namche Bazaar
Hiking Duration: Approx. 4–5 hours
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today features a long and steep ascent to the vibrant trading hub of Namche Bazaar, the largest town in the Khumbu region. About halfway up, trekkers are rewarded with stunning first views of Mount Everest and Lhotse, offering unforgettable photo opportunities.

Namche Bazaar is a bustling mountain town, surrounded by spectacular Himalayan peaks including Thamserku (6,648 m), Kwangde (6,220 m), and Khumbila (5,700 m). Its lively market, tea shops, and lodges provide a welcome rest and acclimatization spot for trekkers on their way to Everest Base Camp. Enjoy breathtaking panoramas and local Sherpa culture during your overnight stay.

Altitude: 3,445 m / 11,302 ft. Namche Bazaar
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today is a crucial rest day to help your body acclimate to the higher altitude. Namche Bazaar offers plenty to explore and enjoy during this break. You can take a short hike above the town for spectacular panoramic views of Mount Everest and the surrounding Himalayan giants.

For those interested in local culture, a visit to the Sherpa Culture Museum is highly recommended. It provides fascinating insights into the traditions, history, and lifestyle of the Sherpa people. After returning to the lodge for lunch, you’ll have free time in the afternoon to either relax or wander through the bustling Namche Bazaar market, where you can shop for souvenirs and interact with locals.

Altitude: 3,810 m / 12,500 ft. Phortse
Hiking Duration: Approx. 5 hours
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, leave Namche behind and begin a steady ascent toward the Mong La Pass at 3,975 m (13,045 ft). The climb is steep but rewarding, offering breathtaking panoramic views of iconic peaks like Ama Dablam and Khumbila. We pause at Mong La Pass to enjoy lunch surrounded by stunning Himalayan vistas.

Following lunch, the trail descends sharply to the river valley below before climbing again to reach Phortse, a traditional Sherpa village known for its rich culture and pristine natural surroundings. Along the way, you might spot mountain goats or catch a glimpse of Nepal’s national bird, the colorful Lophophorus (Himalayan Monal). Spend the night in a cozy tea house surrounded by the tranquility of this authentic mountain village.

Altitude: 4,350 m / 14,272 ft. Dingboche
Hiking Duration: Approx. 5–6 hours
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Leaving behind the charming village of Phortse, we take the high trail, renowned as one of the most scenic routes in the Khumbu region. This path offers breathtaking views of towering mountains and deep valleys. As we walk along the rocky, dry hills, we gradually ascend, passing through traditional Sherpa villages like Pangboche, famous for its ancient monastery built around a sacred rock. The monastery’s dim interior houses ancient sculptures, faded relics, wrathful idols, and intricately carved ritual masks used in summer dance ceremonies.

Next, we continue to Shomare (4,120 m / 13,517 ft), our lunch stop. Along the way, keep an eye out for elusive wildlife such as musk deer, mountain goats, and various bird species. Throughout the day, magnificent views of Ama Dablam, Nuptse, and the iconic Mount Everest will accompany your trek.

From Shomare, the trail climbs further up the glacial valley to reach Dingboche, passing beautifully carved prayer stones that mark the landscape. Entering Dingboche, you’re greeted by a peaceful Buddhist stupa. Nestled at the foot of towering Ama Dablam and other hidden Himalayan giants, Dingboche offers stunning scenery away from the more crowded trails near Namche.

Altitude: Nangkartshang (5,080 m / 16,666 ft), Chukung Village (4,730 m / 15,518 ft), Samso Chopo Ridge (5,140 m / 16,864 ft)
Hiking Duration: Optional hikes — Nangkartshang viewpoint approx. 3 hours, Chukung Village 5–6 hours, Samso Chopo Ridge approx. 6 hours
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today is an important acclimatization day to help your body adjust to the higher altitude. You have several excellent options for short hikes around Dingboche, all offering stunning mountain vistas and cultural experiences.

One popular choice is the hike to Nangkartshang, a hilltop viewpoint overlooking Dingboche and the Chukkung Valley. From here, enjoy panoramic views of iconic Himalayan peaks such as Lobuche East (6,119 m), Lobuche West (6,145 m), Kangtega (6,685 m), Taboche (6,367 m), Thamserku (6,608 m), and the majestic Ama Dablam (6,856 m).

Alternatively, you can take a longer hike to Chukung Village, a gateway to Island Peak. This trail provides superb views of Ama Dablam, Makalu, and the surrounding Himalayan giants.

For those seeking a more challenging adventure, the trek to Samso Chopo Ridge offers one of the most spectacular and less crowded vantage points in the region. Though it involves a steep 2,700-foot climb, the reward is a 360-degree panoramic view of the Mahalangur Himal range — a breathtaking and memorable experience.

After your hike, return to Dingboche for a relaxing evening at the tea house, preparing for the next stage of your Everest Base Camp journey.

Altitude: 4,931 m / 16,181 ft. Lobuche
Hiking Duration: Approx. 5 hours
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After an early breakfast, begin a gradual uphill trek along a plateau dotted with yak herder shelters. The trail treats you to stunning panoramic views of towering Himalayan peaks such as Mount Everest, Cholatse, Lobuche, and Pumari, set against a dramatic and contrasting landscape.

After about two and a half hours of steady walking, you’ll arrive at Thugla, nestled below the terminal moraine of the Khumbu Glacier—the world’s highest glacier. From here, the path ascends along the terminal moraine before turning left just past the climber and Sherpa memorial, a solemn tribute honoring those who lost their lives on Everest. The memorial features plaques commemorating renowned climbers and simple cairns marking others.

Beyond the treeline, you enter the stark glacial moraine zone. Here, you’ll catch your first glimpse of the famous Kala Patthar peak. The trail then descends gently toward the western side of the valley before reaching the village of Lobuche, where you’ll stay overnight in a cozy tea house.

Altitude: Gorak Shep (5,288 m / 17,349 ft), Everest Base Camp (5,360 m / 17,590 ft)
Hiking Duration: Approx. 7–8 hours
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today is the highlight of your trek — the journey to the iconic Everest Base Camp (EBC). After an early breakfast, prepare for a challenging yet exhilarating hike along the rocky terrain beside the mighty Khumbu Glacier. Departing from Lobuche, the trail to Gorak Shep takes you through an extraordinary moraine landscape filled with undulating rocky paths.

Following a light lunch at Gorak Shep, continue your trek to Everest Base Camp. You’ll cross rugged rocks and reach the famous site marked by colorful prayer flags, where the air buzzes with excitement and celebrations. Standing at EBC, you’ll be surrounded by towering, snow-capped Himalayan giants and treated to breathtaking views of the Khumbu Icefall, one of the most dangerous and awe-inspiring glacier formations in the world.

After soaking in the spectacular scenery and capturing unforgettable memories, begin your descent back to Gorak Shep for an overnight stay at the tea house.

Altitude: Kala Patthar (5,545 m / 18,192 ft), Pheriche (4,240 m / 13,911 ft)
Hiking Duration: Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar approx. 3 hours; Kala Patthar to Pheriche approx. 5 hours
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Start your day early with a challenging but rewarding hike to Kala Patthar, the famous black rock hill situated just above Gorak Shep. At an altitude of 5,545 meters (18,192 feet), Kala Patthar offers arguably the best panoramic views of Mount Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Pumori, and surrounding Himalayan giants. The sunrise or sunset views from this vantage point are particularly spectacular, making it one of the most unforgettable highlights of the Everest Base Camp trek.

After soaking in the breathtaking vistas, descend back to Gorak Shep for a hearty breakfast. Then, continue your trek downhill to the tranquil village of Pheriche, enjoying the changing landscapes as you descend from the high alpine terrain to lower elevations.

Altitude: 2,840 m / 9,317 ft. Lukla
Hiking Duration: Approx. 7 hours
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, begin your descent from Namche Bazaar to Monjo, retracing your steps through the stunning Dudh Koshi Valley. Continue descending through picturesque villages like Phakding, Ghat, and Cheplung, with the soothing roar of the Dudh Koshi River accompanying you throughout. Along the way, cross multiple suspension bridges and pass several monasteries nestled within charming Sherpa villages. As you near Chaurikharka, begin your final climb to Lukla, surrounded by lush farm terraces and vibrant local life.

Altitude: 1,302 m / 4,272 ft. Kathmandu
Accommodation: Hotel Tibet or similar
Meals: Breakfast

This day is reserved as a buffer for potential flight delays due to weather conditions in Lukla. Use this leisure day to shop for authentic Nepalese souvenirs, explore Kathmandu’s vibrant culture, or simply unwind after your epic trekking adventure.

Meal: Breakfast

As your unforgettable journey comes to an end, it’s time to fly back home, cherishing all the incredible memories of Nepal. A representative from Nepal Sanctuary Treks will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA). Please make sure to check in 3 hours prior to your scheduled flight for a smooth departure.