The Everest Base Camp trek is a renowned excursion. The journey to get there is a true adventure in itself, and can be a major highlight of the trip. Usually, travelers should arrive two or three days before the trek’s start date. The best way to prepare for the trek is to fly into Kathmandu, Nepal’s heady capital, which is full of UNESCO temples, fragrant curry houses, and a great number of tourist attractions. Kathmandu sits at a modest altitude of 4,500 feet (1,372m), making it an ideal place to start.
Everest Base Camp trek route
The classic Everest Base Camp trek route is a 65km or 40-mile trek that takes trekkers up to Everest’s base camp. The trek route crosses Sagarmatha National Park and includes views of the Himilaya mountain range and the Sherpa people. Most of the trek takes place within the national park, with some portions going through Sherpa villages.
A detailed guide will tell you which routes are best for you, the best tea houses, and how to prevent altitude sickness. The most popular trekking months in Nepal are April to May, and October to November. These months see a huge influx of tourists. If you plan to trek during these months, it is best to avoid monsoon season and go in between.
Though it is possible to trek solo on the Everest Base Camp route, it is best to trek with a guide, as this way you’ll avoid crowds. The route is less crowded after Namche Bazaar, but the terrain is steeper, and you’re more likely to get lost if you’re not accompanied by a guide. Besides, altitude sickness can have disastrous consequences, so it’s better to go with a local guide if you want to stay safe. Moreover, a guide will help you find the best accommodation in the region.
The Everest Base Camp trek is a challenging trek, but it is also possible for people with limited mountaineering experience to do it. The trek normally lasts around 14 days, or two weeks. It involves an average of seven to seventeen kilometers per day, and it requires patience and discipline to reach the summit.
Everest Base Camp teahouses
Trekkers can stay in teahouses while on the Everest Base Camp trek. Located along hiking trails, teahouses are convenient and affordable. They offer a single bed, electricity, hot showers, and basic food. Teahouses are a great alternative to camping. For more information on the EBC trek, check out our Everest Base Camp Trekking guide.
The teahouses are generally well-run and equipped with western-style facilities. Some have beer menus, while others are basic and offer only tea. Some teahouses have local families running them. You can eat meals with them or with other guests in the teahouse. Dal bhat is a favorite, healthy dish and often shared among guests.
In addition to teahouses, the Everest Base Camp trek offers other types of lodging. In the past, these were simple lodging structures that provided only basic services to trekkers. Later, these establishments expanded to include food and lodging services. You can find teahouses scattered throughout the various trekking trails in Nepal.
A teahouse can be a cozy, comfortable place to stay and have a good meal. It also affords travelers the chance to meet locals and see Nepal from a completely different perspective. It is a perfect choice for those who do not want to bring camping gear.
Everest Base Camp weather
The Everest Base Camp weather varies considerably throughout the year. In the spring, the temperature reaches 15degC, and temperatures drop rapidly to as low as -10degC in the winter. By early March, temperatures are in the low teens, and the summer months are drier and warmer.
Typically, the weather at Everest Base Camp is pleasant. It is warm during the day, and cool at night. The average temperature is around 18 degC. However, in July, the monsoon season occurs, resulting in damp and muddy trails. You’ll also be seeing some of the sharpest views of the mountains during this period.
The peak climbing season in Everest Base Camp takes place in September and October. Temperatures are mild and comfortable during the day, but can drop to -15degC at night. Although temperatures are a bit higher than they are during the other months, the mountainous landscape will be a highlight.
The weather at Everest Base Camp varies, and is largely dependent upon elevation. At lower elevations, it is relatively dry, with temperatures around 15degC. However, at higher elevations, there may be heavy snowfalls. You should always pack a sleeping bag and thick clothing for the night.
March, April, and May are all good months to EBC Trek. Although temperatures remain relatively warm, this season can be windy. Winds can reach up to 38km/h. Nevertheless, the weather is pleasant for sightseeing and trekking. Mid-spring is the best time to visit the Everest base camp, as it offers a serene landscape dotted with blooming flowers. May brings warmer temperatures and longer days.
