- March–May (Spring): The most popular window. Rhododendrons bloom. Clear skies. Temperatures are manageable (-10°C to +10°C).
- September–November (Autumn): Post-monsoon clarity. Crystal blue skies. Possibly the best mountain views.
- Day 1: Kathmandu → Lukla Flight → Trek to Phakding (2,652m)
- Day 2: Phakding → Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
- Day 3: Acclimatization in Namche. Hike to Everest View Hotel
- Day 4: Namche → Tengboche (3,860m) — views of Ama Dablam and Everest
- Day 5: Tengboche → Dingboche (4,360m)
- Day 6: Dingboche → Lobuche (4,940m)
- Day 7: Lobuche → Everest Base Camp (5,364m) → Gorak Shep
- Day 8: Kala Patthar (5,545m) sunrise → Helicopter return to Kathmandu
- Flights India–Kathmandu: ₹8,000–15,000 return
- Lukla flight (domestic): $200–250 each way
- Tea house accommodation: $10–25/night
- Meals on trek: $3–8/meal
- Guide: $25–35/day (highly recommended)
- Porter: $20–25/day (1 porter per 2 trekkers)
The Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek at 5,364m is the most iconic high-altitude trek in the world. Here is everything an Indian trekker needs to plan it right.
Best Time to Trek:
Permits Required:
1. TIMS Card (Trekker's Information Management System) — ₹1,500 approx
2. Sagarmatha National Park Entry — ₹3,000 approx
3. Both obtained in Kathmandu or Monjo checkpoint
Fitness & Acclimatization:
Start training 3 months before: hiking with a 10kg pack, stair climbing, cardio. The acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar (Day 4) is non-negotiable — altitude sickness is real.
Day-by-Day Route (8 Days from Kathmandu):
Budget (approximate for Indians):
What to Pack:
Down jacket, base layers, waterproof pants, trekking poles, sleeping bag rated to -20°C, altitude sickness medication (Diamox — consult a doctor), sunscreen SPF50+, water purification tablets.
Health and Safety:
Altitude Sickness (AMS) is serious. The golden rule: "climb high, sleep low." Descend immediately if symptoms worsen. Travel insurance with helicopter evacuation cover is mandatory.