Everest Base Camp

Today is a rigorous climb that serves as your introduction to the high Himalayas. You will crisscross the Dudh Koshi river multiple times over high suspension bridges, including the famous Hillary Bridge. After passing through the entrance of Sagarmatha National Park at Monjo, the trail drops to the riverbed before beginning a long, zig-zagging ascent through dense forests. Halfway up, you may catch your very first glimpse of Mount Everest peeking through the trees. The day ends as you emerge into the horseshoe-shaped amphitheater of Namche Bazaar, the vibrant commercial hub of the Khumbu region.

6-7 hours11km3,440m

Acclimatization is the golden rule of high-altitude trekking. Instead of pushing higher, you spend the day in Namche to let your body adjust to the thinner air. A popular activity is a steep hike up to the Everest View Hotel, where you can sit on the terrace and enjoy a panoramic view of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. On the way back, you can visit the Sherpa Culture Museum or the Everest Photo Gallery. The afternoon is best spent exploring the local bakeries, gear shops, and cafes of Namche, soaking in the unique mountain atmosphere.

3-4 hours4km3,440mAcclimatization Indicated

The trail out of Namche is spectacular, winding around the mountainside with the giant peaks standing guard across the valley. After an easy walk to Kyanjuma, the trail descends steeply to the river at Phunki Tenga for lunch. From here, it is a steady, two-hour climb through rhododendron and silver fir forests to Tengboche. As you reach the ridge, you are greeted by the magnificent Tengboche Monastery, the largest in the region.

5-6 hours10km3,860m

Leaving Tengboche, the trail descends through a forest of birch, conifers, and rhododendrons. The path is dotted with mani walls (stones carved with Buddhist prayers) as you head toward the village of Pangboche. You are now leaving the tree line behind, and the landscape becomes noticeably more arid and alpine. Crossing the Imja Khola, you begin a gradual climb into the Chukhung Valley. The day ends in Dingboche.

5-6 hours11km4,410m

To prepare for the push above 5,000 meters, you spend another day acclimatizing. The most effective way to do this is to 'hike high, sleep low.' Most trekkers climb the steep ridge of Nangkartshang Peak, which rises directly above the village. From the summit (5,083m), you are rewarded with a 360-degree view of the surrounding giants. The rest of the day is for resting, hydrating, and mentally preparing for the higher altitudes ahead.

4-5 hours5km4,410mAcclimatization Indicated

The trail today is a steady climb across a wide, glacier-carved valley. You will reach the small settlement of Thukla, situated at the foot of the massive Khumbu Glacier. After lunch, you face the 'Thukla Pass'—a steep, challenging climb to the top of the terminal moraine. Here, you will find a somber and beautiful memorial site dedicated to climbers who lost their lives on Everest. From the pass, the trail levels out to reach Lobuche.

5-6 hours8km4,940m

This is the most significant day of the trek. You start early, walking across rocky terrain toward Gorak Shep. After a quick meal, you push forward onto the Khumbu Glacier moraine toward Everest Base Camp. The trail is rugged and constantly shifting. Reaching Base Camp (5,364m) is an emotional milestone. You will stand among the colorful tents of expedition teams (if in spring) before returning to Gorak Shep for the night.

8-9 hours15km5,164mEBC elevation is 5,364m, sleeping at Gorak Shep