Top 16 things you need to know before your trek start to Everest Base Camp

Comprehensive guide to Everest Base Camp Trek: 16 facts you should know

Preparation is crucial when planning an adventure such as a trek to the Everest Base Camp, and there are many important factors, known and unknown, that can make or break your trek. Being knowledgeable about the risks associated with altitude sickness, acclimatization schedules, what gear to wear, and how permits work as a trekker. Factors like training for physical fitness, which trekking seasons are good to trek during, determining whether to book accommodations in advance, whether/what kind of porter service you want, whether to purchase emergency evacuation insurance, and more are going to be important. Similarly, you want to familiarize yourself with local customs and cultures and respect the Sherpa people of the Khumbu region, follow Leave No Trace principles, determine your budget, your currency exchange options, and how to communicate with your family/friends back home, account for the potential that your trek will be delayed if the weather changes, and what your plan B will be if that happens. There is a lot that goes into the planning and preparation before starting your trek, but with conscientious research and coaching, you will have a safe and memorable adventure to the world's most iconic base camp

Altitude: ” 8,848 meters / 29,029 ft.“ The World’s Highest Peak on our Planet

Climber: Edmond Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa submitted for the first time on May 29, 1953.

Synonyms of Everest: Sagarmatha in the Nepali Language, and in Tibetan, it is known as Tsomolangma

Lukla Airport: One of the extreme airports in the World

Namche Bazar: Capital of  the Khumbu region

Internet: enjoy high-speed internet on the trek

UNESCO Site: The EBC trekking trail consists of a Natural UNESCO Heritage site

Maximum trekking altitude: Trekkers go up to 5545m, Kalapathar

Mountain scenery: Lhotse (8,516 m/24,940 ft), Nuptse (7,855 m/25,772 ft), Mt. Makalu (8,463 m/27,758 ft), Mt. Pumori (7,161 m/23,488 ft), and Tharmarsarku (6,623 m/21,723 ft), with many other renowned peaks and adjoining giant peaks, including majestic Mt. Amadablam.

1. Where is Everest?

The world’s highest peak, Mt. Everest (8848 m/29029 ft), is in the northeast of Nepal. The international border between Tibet and Nepal. Mount Everest, also known in Nepal as Sagarmatha and in Tibet. Mt. Everest is in the Mahalangur range of the Great Himalayas.

2. Which is the best season for the Everest Base Camp trek?

Two seasons, spring (February-April) & September-November (autumn), are the most suitable seasons to trek to Everest Base Camp. However, if you are mentally and physically strong, you will desire to explore Everest Base Camp in other seasons. Himalayan Smile Treks and Adventure always welcomes you at any time of the year.

3. Where do I stay during the EBC trek, and what kinds of food are available?

Trekking can be done in two ways: one is a camping trek where your porter carries all your accommodation, including your tent, mattress, sleeping bags, and food items. Our cook will provide you with all meals on time. On the other hand, if you are going on a teahouse trek, the teahouses and lodges provide all your meals and shelter facilities. The Khumbu region is a well-maintained trekking region, so you can easily get tea houses and lodges on the way with additional amenities.

You will get the food according to the menu system, including Nepali, Continental, and some Chinese items. All the vegetables and foods are locally supplied from the local. Foods are healthy and hygienic to eat.

4. How much does it cost to go on the Everest Base Camp trek?

The price of the Everest Base Camp trek in Nepal varies from company to company. The cost of the Everest Base Camp trek is influenced by the following components: classification of accommodation, seasons, and your special requirements. Generally, the prices range per person from USD $1000 to USD $3000 for an average of 12 days to 17 days. Includes all your trekking accommodation, KTM-Lukla flight tickets, guide, and porter charges.

5. Which trekking route do I follow to reach EBC?

Many trekking companies offer their clients different trekking routes to reach the Everest Base Camp Trek. Himalayan Smile Treks follows the itinerary, staying overnight at Namche, Tengboche, Dingboche, and Lobuche. You reach the high camp Gorakshep and hike to EBC and Kalapathar. After you retrace your journey. You can comfortably complete this trek within 14 days.

6. Doesn't the travel agency provide EBC trekking insurance?

YES, Himalayan Smile ensures all their staff are trained before they board the Everest Trek

7. What equipment and gear are needed to go to EBC?

You should carry all necessary things like clothing, daily medicine, toiletries, first aid kits, and luxury items. Click this link to find the checklist: https://www.himalayastrek.com/information/trekking/everest-trekking/trekking-notes

8. What kinds of documents and permits are required to trek to EBC?

A TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) card and Sagarmatha National Park entry permit are required to go on the EBC trek.

1. Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS Card)

Necessary Documents:

• copies copy of passport-size pictures
• Personal details

1. Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit

• One photo
• Personal details

9. Is it safe to go alone on the EBC trek?

YES, you can go alone. But we recommend you go trekking in the company of a guide who will give you a lot of information about the place and people. He/she will be responsible for all your potential risks. With a guide, the trip will be safer and more fun.

10. What types of trekking boots are needed for Everest Base Camp?

Having a high cut that wraps above the ankles for excellent support. Durable and supportive, with stiffer midsoles than lighter footwear, they must be suitable and comfortable for off-trail walking and snowy terrain.

11. Sample of Everest Base Camp Trekking Boot

High-altitude mountaineering boots built for extreme conditions. They have waterproof, leather construction, insulated lining rated to -40°F, and aggressive Vibram outsoles for the best traction on ice and rock. These boots provide ankle support, allow for crampon use, and offer breathability to allow moisture to escape from long days of trekking in harsh Himalayan conditions.

12. Should I get travel insurance for the trek?
Travel insurance for the Everest Base Camp trek is essential. Look for comprehensive coverage that includes high-altitude trekking, helicopter evacuation, medical emergencies, and trip cancellations. Emergency helicopter rescues can cost $5,000-$10,000. Some insurers will require a certain mountaineering coverage for altitudes above 3,000 meters. You should always check to ensure your policy covers trekking activities and helicopter evacuation services. 

13. How do I train for the Everest Base Camp trek?
Training is important and will start 3-6 months before departure, focusing on cardiovascular fitness, leg strength, and hiking endurance. For example, do longer hikes with a heavy backpack. Climb stairs to condition your legs. Do altitude simulation hikes if possible. Build up to 6-8 hour hikes. Mental conditioning is also important! If possible, do practice treks at high altitude to check your gear and how your body reacts to the altitude.

14. Are there helicopter options for return and emergencies?
In general, there are helicopter services that are available for emergencies and luxury returns. Emergency evacuation occurs from Lukla, Namche Bazaar, and higher altitudes (weather permitting). Luxury helicopter returns from Kala Patthar or Base Camp cost between $3,000 and $5,000. Be aware that helicopters are often grounded due to weather conditions, so backup options are critical. Emergency services should require comprehensive insurance coverage.

15. Can I undertake the trek solo without going with a group?
Yes, you are allowed to trek to the Everest Base Camp solo, although it is good practice to hire a guide or porter for safety purposes. As an independent trekker, you won't have a trekking company to take care of permits, but you will need to procure the TIMS card and Sagarmatha National Park permits. You should be very competent in map navigation and emergency planning, and experienced in high-altitude trekking if you choose to hike solo. Many solo trekkers happen upon informal groups to hike with throughout the trail, just due to safety on the trail.

15. What is the food like on the trek?
The food on offer on the teahouse menus is extensive, including dal bhat (traditional Nepali meal), pasta, pizza, and various continental options. The quality of food decreases as you go up in altitude, and the pricing on food will also increase exponentially. They will also only offer bottled water or purification tablets if you're interested in that. Vegetarian options are plentiful and generally safe. It is suggested to stay away from raw vegetables, dairy, and meat in the higher altitude areas because this can lead to stomach problems later in your trek.