Everest Base Camp
The iconic base camp for the world's highest peak.
About Everest Base Camp
Everest Base Camp is the starting point for climbers attempting to summit Mount Everest and a popular trekking destination offering spectacular views of the world's highest mountains.
Everest Base Camp (EBC) sits at 5,364 metres at the foot of Mount Everest, the highest mountain on earth at 8,849 metres, deep in the Khumbu region of north-eastern Nepal within Sagarmatha National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). The South Base Camp on the Nepal side is the staging ground for Everest expeditions and the finishing prize of one of the world's most famous treks.
Reaching base camp is a journey in itself. The classic Everest Base Camp trek takes roughly 12–14 days round trip from the mountain airstrip at Lukla, winding through Sherpa villages, suspension bridges and rhododendron forest to the trading hub of Namche Bazaar, the hilltop monastery of Tengboche, and the high settlements of Dingboche and Gorak Shep. The nearby peak of Kala Patthar (5,545 m) offers the classic panoramic sunrise view of Everest itself.
EBC is a teahouse trek — you sleep and eat in family-run lodges along the way — but altitude is the real challenge, so proper acclimatisation days are essential. For a full day-by-day route, packing list and cost breakdown, see our in-depth Everest Base Camp trek guide.
Getting There
Most treks begin with a short, scenic flight from Kathmandu (or Ramechhap in peak season) to Lukla, followed by the multi-day walk to base camp via Namche Bazaar. Helicopter tours and fly-in/fly-out options also exist. There is no road to the Khumbu, so flying to Lukla plus trekking is the standard route.
Travel Tips
- Trek in spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November) for the clearest, most stable weather.
- Budget acclimatisation days (e.g. at Namche and Dingboche) to avoid altitude sickness.
- You need a Sagarmatha National Park permit and a Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality permit.
- Carry cash — prices rise with altitude and card payment is rare beyond Namche.
- Hire a licensed guide and/or porter for safety, navigation and local insight.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Everest Base Camp trek?
The classic EBC trek takes about 12-14 days round trip from Lukla, including acclimatisation days. Shorter fly-in/fly-out and helicopter options exist, while longer variations add side trips like Gokyo Lakes.
How high is Everest Base Camp?
The South Base Camp in Nepal sits at 5,364 metres (17,598 ft). The nearby viewpoint of Kala Patthar, at 5,545 metres, offers the best panoramic view of Mount Everest.
How do you get to Everest Base Camp?
Fly from Kathmandu (or Ramechhap in peak season) to Lukla, then trek roughly 12-14 days via Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche and Gorak Shep. There is no road, so flying to Lukla plus trekking is standard.
What is the best time to trek to Everest Base Camp?
March to May and September to November offer the most stable weather and clearest mountain views. Winter is very cold and the monsoon brings cloud, rain and flight delays.
Highlights
Kala Patthar
Namche Bazaar
Tengboche Monastery
Khumbu Glacier
Sagarmatha National Park
Activities
Trekking
Mountain climbing
Photography
Cultural tours
Helicopter tours
Travel Information
Location
Solukhumbu District, Eastern Nepal
Best Time to Visit
March to May and September to November
Where is Everest Base Camp?
Everest Base Camp is located in Solukhumbu District, Eastern Nepal.
