Everest Base Camp Short Trek

Overview

For those looking for an adventurous journey within a limited time, our 10 Days Everest Base Camp Short Trek is a perfect package for you. The trek allows you to trek on the iconic trail of the Everest region. Within a limited time, you will follow in the footsteps of Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa to the foothills of the world’s highest mountain, Mount Everest (8849 m).

The Everest Base Camp is the ultimate trek destination for trek enthusiasts worldwide. The EBC Short Trek takes you to the northeastern region of Nepal. You will begin with a scenic flight to Lukla. Then, you will traverse the scenic trails of the Everest region within the Sagarmatha National Park. Its adventurous trekking trails take you past famous Sherpa settlements like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Gorak Shep, and more. Similarly, you will also pass by ancient monasteries, gompas, stupas, chortens, mani walls, and prayer flags. You will get a chance to visit the oldest monastery in the region, the Tengboche Monastery.

The classic Everest Base Camp trail is also popular among trekkers for its moderate-grade challenge and adventure. It is perfect for all levels of trekkers, including beginners. During your hike to Everest Base Camp, you will trek from lower subtropical forests of rhododendrons, oaks, and firs to alpine meadows and tundra landscapes. You will gradually ascend to Everest Base Camp (5364 m) and Kala Patthar (5555 m). These spectacular vantage points offer unique opportunities to witness the gorgeous panoramas of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Pumori, Thamserku, and more. The trek also provides a rich cultural experience. You will get to experience the vibrant culture of the Sherpa people. Our 10 Days Everest Base Camp Short Trek is an incredible journey that provides adventure, beautiful sceneries, and a rich cultural experience. So, join us today!

Trekking Trips Activity
Easy Grade

Everest Base Camp Short Trek Highlightss

  • Begin your Everest Base Camp Short Trek with a thrilling and scenic flight to Lukla.
  • Traverse picturesque and famous settlements like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Gorak Shep, and more.
  • Climb from dense rhododendron groves to alpine meadows and tundra vegetation.
  • Trek within the scenic landscape of Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Observe diverse and unique Himalayan flora and fauna.
  • Take spiritual tours of age-old monasteries and gompas, including the ancient Tengboche Monastery.
  • Ascend to the iconic Everest Base Camp (5364 m) and the famous vantage point of Kala Patthar (5555 m).
  • Enjoy gorgeous 360-degree panoramic views of Mount Everest (8848 m), Lhotse (8516 m), Nuptse (7861 m), Cho Oyu (8201 m), and many more.
  • Witness the stunning view of the Khumbu Glacier and the Khumbu Icefall.
  • Immerse in the rich culture and traditions of the Sherpa ethnic community.

Everest Base Camp Short Trek Itinerary

Day 1 | Flight from Kathmandu/Manthali to Lukla. Flight time: Approx 40 min from KTM/20 min from Manthali. Trek to Phakding (2,610 m).

We will catch an early flight from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu to Tenzing Hillary Airport in Lukla. The flight from Kathmandu to Lukla takes 40-minute. It offers stunning aerial views of the Everest region’s landscapes and captivating mountain panoramas. To avoid Kathmandu’s air traffic, you can also take a flight from Manthali Airport in Ramechhap. But first, you must drive to Manthali Airport from Kathmandu, which takes around five hours. The flight from Manthali to Lukla takes only 20 minutes.

After arriving at Lukla, you will begin your trek toward Phakding. The trail initially goes downhill through dense rhododendron grooves toward the Dudh Koshi River. Then, we will trek alongside the river banks, passing by small traditional villages along the way. We will also cross small streams and suspension bridges to reach Phakding. The trek on this day is relatively short and easy.

Flight Time:

3 hours

Distance:

: 6.2 km/ 3.8 miles

Altitude:

: 2850 m

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Day 2 | Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m).

We will have breakfast at Phakding and continue our trek. The trails also continue to go alongside the Dudh Koshi Riverbank. En route, we will cross several suspension bridges. We will also cross the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge. Similarly, we will cross villages like Toktotok, Benkar, Monjo, Jorsale, etc. The Sagarmatha National Park entrance lies in Monjo, and from here, we will enter the national park area. We will continue through dense subtropical forests and get our first sight of Mount Everest. For the final stretch of today’s trek, we will climb a steep uphill trail to get to Namche Bazaar. Trek to Namche takes approximately 6 hours.

Flight Time:

6 hours

Distance:

7.4 km/ 4.6 miles

Altitude:

3,440 m

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Place:

Namche Bazaar

Day 3 | Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,855 m).

We will leave the picturesque Namche Bazaar and gradually begin to ascend. There are several downhill and gentle pathways. The trail enters the alpine meadows, and we will cross several suspension bridges. As we continue moving forward, we can see the beautiful Dudh Koshi Valley, Tengboche Hill, and several mountain vistas at a distance. En route, we will come across villages like Kyangjuma and Phungi Thanga. After trekking for a while, we will reach Tengboche. The region’s oldest monastery, the Tengboche Monastery, lies in the village. You can witness gorgeous views of Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Khangtenga, and more from the monastery.

Flight Time:

5 hours

Distance:

9 km/ 5.7 miles

Altitude:

3855 m

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Day 4 | Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche (4,360 m)

The trail from Tengboche begins to ascend gradually as we start our trek to Dingboche. Along the way, we will cross villages like Debuche, Pangboche, Somare, and Pheriche. Similarly, we will also trek past chortens, mani walls, and colorful prayer flags along the trail. As we continue trekking forward, we will walk alongside the Lobuche Riverbank. Then, we will enter the Imja Valley and climb uphill to Dingboche. The picturesque village of Dingboche is the least densely populated settlement on the EBC trail. It offers gorgeous views of Mount Ama Dablam and Lhotse.

Flight Time:

5 hours

Distance:

12 km/ 7.45 miles

Altitude:

4360 m

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Day 5 | Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche (4,930 m)

We will have breakfast at the beautiful Dingboche village and resume our trek. The trail begins on the ridge line that overlooks the Pheriche Valley. Similarly, we will also trek alongside the Khumbu Glacier. Then, we will cross the Thukla Pass, where we can see a stone memorial. The memorial is built in memory of the mountaineers who lost their lives on Mount Everest. From here, we will continue trekking along riverbanks and reach Lobuche. Trek to Lobuche takes approximately 5 hours.

Flight Time:

5 hours

Distance:

8.5 km/ 5.2 miles

Altitude:

4930 m

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Place:

Lobuche

Day 6 | Trek from Lobuche to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) and back to Gorak Shep (5,185 m)

Today is the day we will finally climb to the Everest Base Camp. Our trek on this day has two phases. First, we will leave Lobuche through the lateral moraine of Khumbu Glacier to Gorak Shep. We must also climb on a steep uphill trail. After reaching Gorak Shep, we will leave our luggage here and start the second phase of our trek.

The hike from Gorak Shep to reach Everest Base Camp takes around two hours. We must climb uphill on steep trails on rocky terrains. Upon reaching the base camp, the stunning mountain vistas will welcome us. You can enjoy gorgeous view of Everest and surrounding Himalayas. En route, we will witness the spectacular Khumbu Glacier and Khumbu Icefall. Colorful prayer flags adorn the base camp, and we will have time to explore for a while. Then, we will descend to Gorak Shep and stay overnight.

Flight Time:

7 hours

Distance:

15 km/ 9.32 miles

Altitude:

5364 m

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Day 7 | Hike to Kala Patthar (5,555 m) viewpoint, trek back to Gorak Shep, then to Pheriche (4,250 m).

Today is another exciting yet challenging day for us. We will wake up before dawn and begin our uphill hike to Kala Patthar. The trail leading to the famous viewpoint is steep, rough, and rugged. We will enjoy a beautiful golden sunrise with panoramic mountain views in the background. After observing the gorgeous sunrise and Himalayas, we will return to Gork Shep. Then, we will begin our downhill climb to Pheriche.

Flight Time:

5 hours

Distance:

9.6 km/ 6 miles

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Day 8 | Trek from Pheriche to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m)

Our trek on this day is relatively easy and mostly a downhill climb. We will retrace our steps to Pangboche and Tengboche village to reach Namche Bazaar. There are also a few Ascension sections. The trail also goes through pine and subtropical forests. Finally, we will cross a suspension bridge over the Dudh Koshi River to reach Namche. We will stay overnight at a lodge here.

Flight Time:

6 hours

Distance:

14.3 km/ 8.8 miles

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Place:

Namche Bazaar

Day 9 | Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,850 m)

This is the final day of our trek. We will have a hearty breakfast at Namche Bazaar before beginning our downhill climb. The trail descends to Dudh Koshi Valley and passes by Jorsale, Monjo, Benkar, Toktotok, and Phakding villages. We will then retrace our steps to Lukla, where we will stay overnight.

Flight Time:

7 hours

Distance:

13.5 km/ 8.3 miles

Altitude:

3440 m

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Place:

Lukla

Day 10 | Fly back to Kathmandu/ Manthali from Lukla. Flight time: Approx. 40 min for KTM/20 min for Manthali

Today is the final day of our trek. After breakfast at Lukla, we will take a flight back to Kathmandu or Manthali Airport. You will get the last glimpse of the enchanting Himalayas and landscapes from the flight. If you are taking a flight to Manthali Airport, you must drive back to Kathmandu. Upon reaching Kathmandu, our trek package will come to an end. We hope the trek was a unique and memorable experience for you. Thank you for choosing us!

Altitude:

1400 m

Meals:

B

Best Time for the Everest Base Camp Trek

Spring (March to May)

One of the best times for the Everest Base Camp Short Trek is during spring. The blooming rhododendrons and colorful wildflowers adorn the entire trail. The weather is also bright, sunny, and clear, and the daylight hours are longer. You can enjoy the stunning scenery of the landscapes and the mountain panoramas. There is minimal rainfall with occasional rain showers. The temperature at the beginning of spring is a little cold, and snow still covers the higher-elevation trails. However, the temperature becomes warmer as the season progresses. The average daytime temperature during spring is 15°C to 20°C. At nighttime, the temperature can drop below freezing and up to -5°C.

Summer (June to August)

As spring transitions into summer, monsoons also enter the country. There is heavy rainfall in the lower and hilly regions of the country. As a result, the trails become muddy, wet, and slippery. The heavy rain clouds also obstruct the view. Due to poor visibility, flights are also more likely to get delayed or canceled. The temperature is hot and humid during summer. It ranges from 15°C to 25°C in the daytime and can drop to 5°C at nighttime. Additionally, mosquitoes and leeches infest the trails. These make trekking to EBC rather uncomfortable. Hence, summer is not an ideal time for trekking.

Autumn (September to November)

The best trekking season in Nepal is autumn, which has the most favorable weather and mild temperatures. It is neither too hot nor too cold. The average daytime temperature is around 10°C to 15°C. The nights and mornings are rather cold and drop below freezing point. Moreover, the rain from monsoon leaves the entire landscape and vegetation fresh, lush, and vibrant. The air is crisp, and the sky is clear with brilliant visibility. Autumn foliage also further enhances the beauty of the Everest region. It is the best time to witness the crystal-clear mountain views. Since the monsoon season exits the country, there is minimal rainfall. Autumn is the peak trekking season, and the trails are rather busy.

Winter (December to February)

With winter, it begins to snow heavily in the higher-altitude regions. The temperature also begins to drop significantly as the season progresses. It is usually warm during the day, and the visibility is clear. The daytime temperature ranges around 10°C, but at night, the temperature plunges below -20°C. Due to the harsh weather conditions, winter is considered off-season for trekking. However, it is the best time to witness the snow-covered landscapes of the Everest region. The mountain views are also spectacular. Despite the challenging weather, many seasoned trekkers choose winter for adventurous trekking experience.

Everest Base Camp Trek Difficulty

The 10 Days Everest Base Camp Trek is the most popular trek destination in Nepal, but it is not easy to conquer its demanding trails. With proper preparation, trekkers can overcome the challenges of this classic trek. The trek has a moderate difficulty grade. There is no need for prior experience or technical skills suitable for all trekkers. Beginners can also participate in this adventurous trek to the base of the world’s highest mountain, Mount Everest.
The EBC Trek requires reasonable physical and mental fitness. During the trek, trekkers must cover approximately 130 km. Trekkers must ascend and descend steep and narrow trails on varied terrains each day. Similarly, they must cross several suspension bridges, glaciers, and moraines along the way. The average trekking hour per day is 5 to 6 hours, depending on the destination. It requires strength, stamina, and endurance to overcome the physically demanding trails. Likewise, mental resilience also plays a significant role in conquering challenges.

In addition to the challenging terrain, the high altitude makes the venture difficult. The thin oxygen level in the atmosphere can cause acute mountain sickness among trekkers. Ascending is also more difficult and physically strenuous. The weather also changes rapidly as you move to higher elevations. It can cause unforeseen difficulties for trekkers. The lack of infrastructure and connectivity can make trekkers feel isolated and demotivated during the trek journey.

Everest Base Camp is a challenging trek but not impossible. However, trekkers must not underestimate the difficulties. They must prepare properly and plan their trek itinerary to best fit them. It helps to make the trip to Everest Base Camp more comfortable and enjoyable.

Short Everest Base Camp Trek Route

The Short Everest Base Camp Trek begins with a flight to Lukla (2850 m). It takes 20 minutes to fly from Manthali Airport, Ramechhap (1218 m) to Lukla, and 40 minutes from Kathmandu (1400 m). After landing on Lukla, you will begin your trek. You will follow the trail alongside the Dudh Koshi River and through the pine forest to reach Phakding (2850 m).

The trail continues to follow the Dudh Koshi River from Phakding. Then, you will cross several rivers on suspension bridges. One of the most popular bridges you will cross en route is the Hillary Suspension Bridge. After reaching Monjo village, you will enter the Sagarmatha National Park. You will trek through dense subtropical forests from here onwards. To get to Namche Bazaar (3440 m), you must climb a steep uphill trail. The picturesque Namche Bazaar is the trading hub of the Everest region and an important stop for the EBC Trek.

You will enter the pine forest from Namche and pass several suspension bridges. Likewise, you can see several colorful prayer flags, stupas, and chortens. The trail will gradually ascend, and you will reach Tengboche (3855 m). The village of Tengboche is home to the oldest monastery in the region, the Tengboche Monastery. As you continue moving forward, the trail will keep elevating. En route, you will pass several small traditional villages, chortens, mani walls, and streams. After trekking along the Lobuche Riverbank, you will enter the Imja Valley and reach Dingboche (4360 m).

You will start to trek along the Khumbu Glacier as you leave Dingboche behind. Along the way, you will pass by a stone memorial that was built in memory of mountaineers who lost their lives during the Everest expedition. The landscapes also shift as the lush vegetation becomes sparse and the terrain becomes barren. Then, you will reach Lobuche (4930 m). From here, the trail goes alongside the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. You must also climb a steep trail to reach Gorak Shep (5185 m). Your climb to the Everest Base Camp (5364 m) begins here.

The route to the base camp will challenge you physically and mentally. En route, you will witness the beautiful Khumbu Glacier and Khumbu Icefall. Upon reaching the Everest Base Camp, the towering mountains will greet you. The base camp offers a 360-degree view of Mount Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Pumori, and many more. Then, you will descend back to Gorakshep. You will take an early trek to Kala Patthar (5555 m). The vantage point offers gorgeous sunrise and views of Mount Everest and the surrounding Himalayas. After enjoying the sunrise view, you will descend to Gorakshep and trek to Pheriche (4250 m).

The trail from Pheriche is relatively easy. It mostly descends, with a few uphill sections. To reach Namche Bazaar, you cross a suspension bridge over the Dudh Koshi River. Then, you retrace your steps to Lukla, descending to Dudh Koshi Valley. From Lukla, you fly to Kathmandu or Manthali Airport in Ramechhap.

FAQs

Can Beginners Take the Short Trek to Everest Base Camp?

Yes, beginners can take the short trek to Everest Base Camp with proper preparation. The EBC Short Trek is a moderate journey that requires no prior experience. It is suitable for trekkers of all levels, including beginners. However, trekkers must prepare physically and mentally.

The classic EBC trails have steep uphill and downhill climbing sections. Trekkers must hike for 5 to 6 hours each day on rocky and rough terrain. It requires good strength, stamina, and endurance. In addition to the physical demands, the trails also require mental resilience. The remote location, high altitude, unpredictable weather, and demanding trails can trigger trekkers and cause mental stress.

To overcome the challenges, trekkers must prepare at least 2 to 3 months prior to the Everest Base Camp Short Trek. For physical preparation, trekkers must undertake strength and stamina-building exercises and training. Cardiovascular exercises such as running, jogging, cycling, brisk walking, and swimming help to enhance one’s physical fitness. Likewise, trekkers can join a gym and hire trainers for professional help. They can take altitude stimulation training to tackle the high-altitude nature of the trek. Yoga and meditation are immensely helpful in building mental tolerance. Trekkers must research the trek and its challenges to better prepare for the journey.

As a beginner, you should cut no corners and prepare meticulously. Beginners can take an acclimatization day if necessary. Proper and right trekking gear also plays a crucial role in making the trek more comfortable. Build a positive mindset, and do not panic if you encounter difficulties during your 10 Days EBC Trek. Stay level-headed and enjoy the extraordinary experience.

A Typical Day on the Everest Base Camp Trek

Each day of our 10 Days Everest Base Camp Trek will be exciting and full of new adventures. The trekking trail goes through dense rhododendron grooves to forests of conifers and glaciers. Similarly, we will trek past several traditional Sherpa settlements and picturesque paddy farms. You will explore new places and have numerous opportunities to take beautiful pictures.

We will wake up early each day and have breakfast before leaving. Our trek begins around 7 AM or 8 AM, depending on the day’s destination. Throughout the trek, you will climb uphill and downhill on steep and narrow trails. Similarly, you will get to enjoy gorgeous mountain views as you continue moving forward. You will take a lunch break around midday and have around an hour to rest.

The evening treks are usually shorter than the morning ones. You will arrive at your destination and check in at your accommodation first. In your spare time, you can explore the area. The dinner is usually served around 7 PM. After dinner, your guide will provide a briefing for the next day’s journey. Then, you are free to spend the time as you please. You can relax, chitchat, play games, read books, watch movies, or learn Nepalese greetings and language with your guide or locals.

Why Book With Us

HCTreks, a trusted name in Nepal’s tourism, offers unforgettable Himalayan adventures with expert guidance and 24/7 support. From Everest treks to hidden trails like Upper Dolpo, we ensure your journey is seamless and memorable.

Expert Travel Guides

Himalayan Challenge Treks believes no journey will be safe and smooth without a good travel team. Thus, we are proud of our expert travel guides, who make our clients' expeditions remarkable. Likewise, our guides are highly experienced, government-licensed, and trained in first aid and emergency responses.  Trekking with HC's guide is like walking with a companion who ensures your safety and makes a journey memorable and extraordinary.

Safety First

The Himalayan Challenge trek ensures that your safety is our top priority. When you made a booking with us, you became our family member. And we won't let our family be in any trouble. Thus, from the beginning of the trek to the time you fly to your home country, we'll take care of every detail and get in touch with you. Similarly, our well-planned itinerary, acclimatization strategies, and emergency support ensure a smooth and safe trekking experience.

Customizable Trips

Himalayan Challenge Trek knows that even one coin's two sides are not the same, so how can two different clients be the same? Considering the fact that everyone is different and has unique preferences, we offer customizable trekking packages. This personalized option allows trekkers to tailor their itinerary to suit their preferences, fitness level, and time availability.

Eco-Friendly Tourism

Sustainable and eco-friendly tourism practices set us apart from other trekking agencies. We don't just make you explore the Himalayas but also train you to protect nature for future generations. We take different steps to ensure that your journey in the mountains has a positive impact. For suitable and eco-friendly tourism, we follow a zero-waste approach to support local and organic products.

Competitive Price

HC Treks's top-notch service at a competitive price ensures that even tight-budget trekkers get the best value for their money. Likewise, we maintain 100% transparency with no hidden costs. We arrange itineraries that maximize the trekking experience without unnecessary expenses, as everything required is included in the package. Further, we offer group discounts and assist trekkers with rental gear to help them reduce costs. 

Route Updates

We believe that staying updated on the weather and providing updates to trekkers are crucial for a safe and enjoyable trekking experience. Thus, we provide daily weather forecasts and route updates, ensuring trekkers are prepared ahead. For weather updates, our guide monitors official meteorological sources and local reports, ensuring a safe journey and no interruption due to changes in weather during the trek.