At an astounding 8848.86 meters, Mount Everest, the imposing titan of the Himalayas, is the highest peak on Earth. When you ask an explorer about their dream, they will tell you one word: EVEREST. Who wouldn’t want to be at the top of the world? On May 29, 1953, Sir Edmund Hillary of New Zealand and Tenzing Norgay of Nepal made the first ascent of it.
Many climbers have made similar attempts to reach the top of the world since 1953, when the first person ever set foot there. In addition, Mount Everest is referred to as Sagarmatha (Mother of the Universe) in Nepali and Chomolangma (divine mother of the snows) in Tibetan.
Sagarmatha National Park, designated as a World Heritage Site in 1979 A.D., contains it. Most mountaineers attempt their ascent in May, right before Nepal experiences the monsoon, whereas most trips begin in April. About two months will pass before a successful attempt is made. Every year, the massive peak attracts an enormous amount of ascent attempts—roughly a thousand.
However, many visible and invisible challenges can arise during an Everest adventure, such as extreme weather, high altitude, and simply plain tiredness. It’s crucial to take a methodical strategy when climbing Everest to maximize your chances of success. This approach ought to be predicated on elements like training, perseverance, experience, and skill.
For Everest climbing, the Nepali route is the most recommended option. The journey begins with a plane ride from Kathmandu to Lukla, then a hike to Namche Bazaar, where all of the tour’s supplies are picked up. Everest is renowned for its severe weather and unpredictable nature; there are crevasses and seracs strewn throughout the glacier.
What makes for a successful ascent are mountaineering experience, physical fitness, mental toughness, appropriate equipment, a capable team, and good fortune. Every professional climber desires to reach the top of Mount Everest and to achieve this goal, they are willing to make significant time and financial sacrifices.
Selecting the ideal launch window for the Everest expedition is essential to a thrilling and safe experience. Let’s examine the ideal travel seasons, considering the advantages and disadvantages of each.
Spring (March to May): The climbing season
Most people agree that the optimum time to go on a Mount Everest trip is in the spring. The severe winter circumstances start to lessen during this period as the weather starts to warm up. As climbers ascend, the temperature at the base camp steadily climbs from its hovering -15°C (5°F).
The road lined with Nepal’s national flower, the rhododendron, or Laliguras, is the main draw in the spring.
Summer/Monsoon (June to August):
It is the least popular time to travel because of the mud, leeches, infections, and landslide hazards caused by the rain, which discourage hikers from going. More risk to climbers comes from unstable snow conditions brought on by warm temperatures at lower elevations. In the summer, there aren’t any Everest excursions.
Fall/Autumn (September to November):
Autumn is second on our ranking of the best seasons to trek to the Everest base camp, but spring is still the finest. Because of the pleasant weather, it is as crowded as spring. There are lots of travelers and guests in the hotel, tea store, and cafe.
Climbers can enjoy breathtaking views and vibrant foliage during the fall season, which makes for an eye-catching experience.
Winter (December to February):
Day 01: Arriving in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel – 1,300m
Day 02: Rest in Kathmandu, expedition briefing and Preparation – 1,300m
Day 03: Travel by plane to Lukla 2,810m – 30 min from Kathmandu, then hike to Phakding 2,600m
Day 04: Trekking to Namche Bazar 3,440m, 11,283ft
Day 05: Acclimatization at Namche Bazar – 3,400m
Day 06: Hike from Namche Bazaar to Dibuche 3,870m – 08 hrs
Day 07: Trek to Dingboche 4,410m, 14,465ft
Day 08: Trek to Lobuche 4,910m/ 16,105ft
Day 09: Trek from Lobuche to Gorshipa 5,170m – 04 hrs Hike to Everest Base Camp 5364m – 04 hrs
Day 10-39: Rotation: Basecamp – Rotation (Camp I, Camp II and Camp III) – Basecamp
Day 40-53: Summit Push:(Base Camp – Everest Summit (8,848.86m) – Base Camp).
Day 54: Clean up Base Camp – 5,364m
Day 55: Journey to Pheriche 4,200m – 05 hrs
Day 56: Trek to Namche Bazar 3,450m – 06 hrs
Day 57: Trekking from Namche Bazaar to Lukla – 2,810m
Day 58: Fly to Kathmandu Transfer to your hotel 1,300m – 30 min
Day 59: A day of leisure in Kathmandu – 1,300m
Day 60: Departure from Kathmandu – 1,300m
Before embarking on the Everest Base Camp Trek, it is crucial to meticulously pack the necessary clothing and gear, while also acquiring general knowledge about the trekking areas. As is well-known, the majority of trekking routes in Nepal commence from the subtropical region and ascend through the sub-alpine zone, eventually reaching the alpine zone above 4000m.
For instance, the ultimate destinations of many trails in the upper Khumbu region include Everest Base Camp, Kalapatthar, Gokyo, and the three high passes. All these locations are situated at altitudes exceeding 4,800m above sea level. Several treks initiate from various points such as Kathmandu, Lukla, Jiri, Bhandar, Salleri, Khari Khola, or Thame Dada.
To ensure a safe and comfortable trek in the Himalayan region, it is highly recommended to bring the appropriate equipment and gear to cope with the cold temperatures. The following is a list of essential equipment and gear, which can be purchased either in the Thamel market or brought from your home country
For trekking and expeditions, a duffel bag is essential to pack all kinds of trekking equipment. Duffel bags come in various sizes, ranging from 60 liters to 100 liters. There are different brands available, such as The North Face, Sonam, Sherpa, Rab, and Everest Hikes. You can purchase these bags both online and offline in your homeland or in Kathmandu, particularly in Thamel's trekking shops. The cost varies depending on the brand, ranging from $15 to $100.
For hiking and trekking, you can choose from various brands of day bags. We recommend a 30 to 45-liter waterproof, strong, and good-quality day bag. Prices range from $40 to $200, depending on the brand and quality. You can purchase it in your homeland or buy it at the Thamel market (a trekking shop). Typically, this bag is used for day hiking and carries toiletries, emergency medical supplies, snacks, a water bottle, a jacket, warm shirts/t-shirts, a hat, trekking poles, and gloves.
Rain, wind, and snow are common in trekking areas. Typically, to avoid rain, we use a poncho, which also helps keep our body, clothes, and day pack dry. The cost of a raincoat is $10 to $50, depending on the quality, and it can be found in Thamel (a trekking shop). Alternatively, if possible, you can bring one from your own source.
In the Himalayas, a trekking area, electricity is limited due to a small hydro power station. Sometimes, the electricity may not work, and often solar panels are used in most places. If the day is not sunny, then solar panels may not work. In that case, we can use our own backup to charge electronic devices. The quality makes the price vary from $50 up to $150. You can buy it in a Kathmandu trekking shop, or you can bring it on your own.
During mountain treks, it is essential to stay hydrated by drinking either hot or cold water. The mountain water is robust and rich in minerals. Having a water filter machine allows you to filter this water. This is not only environmentally friendly but also cost-effective, as plastic bottled water can be expensive. The price range for water filters is $50 to $100, depending on the brand. You can purchase one in your own country or buy it at a Thamel trekking shop.
Normally, we use a sleeping bag during camping trekking and teahouse trekking. In teahouses, we are provided with blankets, but during the busy season, the blankets may not be sufficient. That's why we highly recommend owning a sleeping bag. Sleeping bags come in different types, ranging from -5 degrees to -30 degrees, and they vary in price. If you choose to buy a local Nepali product, the cost may not be expensive, ranging from Rs 5000 to Rs 20000. However, if you prefer a brand like The North Face, Sonam, Sherpa, or RAV, the cost can range from $200 to $1000. You can purchase them online or offline.
In Nepal, you have the option to rent or buy a sleeping bag. If you opt for a trekking package, the organizer will arrange sleeping bags based on different trekking areas.
During our Himalaya trekking, we ventured into remote areas where electricity and lighting systems were scarce, even in teahouses and high passes such as Thorang Pass, Larkey Pass, and the three high passes. In these places, especially during nighttime trips to the toilet or while crossing high passes, a headlight is essential. Headlights come in different types, including a normal one, one with a battery, or another with an electric source, ranging in cost from $10 to $50. You can purchase them online or offline, either from trekking shops in Thamel or in your home country.
During Himalayan trekking, it is advisable to carry two types of bottles: a 1-liter small thermos for hot water, tea, or coffee, and another 1-liter bottle for regular drinking water. The prices for these bottles range from $7 to $50. You can purchase them at Thamel trekking shops or in your home country. In Nepal, these bottles are available both online and offline.
During Himalayan hiking and trekking, it is essential to have sunglasses that provide protection against dust, wind, snow, cold, and heat. Different weather conditions require different types of sunglasses. We highly recommend reputable brands for sunglasses, with prices ranging from $10 to 200%. These sunglasses are readily available both online and offline. You can conveniently purchase them from trekking shops in Kathmandu Thamel or from retailers in your own country.
During Himalaya hiking and trekking, where you may encounter rain, wind, cold, heat, dust, and snow, it is essential to invest in a high-quality waterproof jacket for protection. Various brands offer reliable options, such as The North Face, Sherpa, Sonam, Black Diamond, and RAB, with prices ranging from $100 to $500. These jackets are available for purchase both online and offline. You can find them at The Kathmandu Thamel trekking shop or in stores in your own country.
During the trekking, we need a down jacket for cold places. We highly recommend a local or international brand depending on your budget. The cost will start from $5 and can go up to $1000. The recommended brands are "The North Face, Sonam, Black Diamond, Sherpa," which you can buy from your home country or in Kathmandu Thamel trekking shops. They are available both online and offline.
When reaching the teahouses during Himalayan treks, it is advisable to change into warmer clothes. We highly recommend bringing a jumper, and there are both local and international brands available, depending on your budget. Prices start from $30 to $120. If you already have one, that's fine; otherwise, you can purchase it in Nepal from the Thamel market, both online and offline.
During Himalaya trekking, it is essential to have waterproof trousers to protect against rain, wind, dust, cold, and snow. We highly recommend choosing a brand based on your budget, with prices ranging from $20 to $150. Some notable trekking trouser brands include "The North Face," "Sonam," "Black Diamond," and "RAB." These trousers can be purchased both online and offline. If you already have them, you can bring them along; otherwise, you can purchase them at the Nepal Thamel Market.
Normally, during Himalayan trekking, we use base layer shirts to protect ourselves from wind, dust, sun, and rain while hiking. There are both local and international brands available, with costs ranging from $20 to $120. You can purchase them either online or offline. If you already have one, you can bring it with you; otherwise, you can buy it at a trekking shop in Nepal.
During Himalayan trekking, the trekking areas can be extremely cold. We highly recommend purchasing a set of thermal clothing. There are both local and international brands available, such as The North Face, Sonam, Sherpa, Black Diamond, Kathmandu, and Everest. The cost can range from $50 to $250, and you can find these sets both online and offline. If you already have a set, you can use that; otherwise, we recommend buying one in Nepal, specifically at the Thamel market.
During Himalayan trekking and hiking, it is advisable to wear a sun hat to protect yourself from the sun. Additionally, when feeling cold, you can use your own woolen hat. We highly recommend purchasing either local or international brands, with prices starting from $5 and going up to $25. You can find these hats in the Thamel market in Nepal.
During Himalayas trekking, it is essential to protect your neck, ears, mouth, and nose. We highly recommend purchasing different types of scarves, which are available in Nepal Thamel trekking shops. Prices start from $3 and go up to $25.
During Himalayan hiking and trekking, the most crucial equipment is footwear, particularly trekking boots. These boots are essential for safeguarding your ankles, ensuring safe walking, and being physically and mentally prepared for the trek. We highly recommend purchasing internationally recognized waterproof shoe brands such as Salomon, Hoka, Lowa, and Marmot. The cost typically starts from $150 and can go up to $400. You can find these brands in both Europe and Asia, including the Kathmandu Thamel market.
During Himalaya hiking and trekking, it is essential to have different types of socks depending on your budget. We highly recommend investing in trekking socks, with prices ranging from $3 to $30. There are both local and international brands available, and you can purchase them in Kathmandu's Thamel market.
During Himalayan hiking and trekking, we encounter various weather conditions such as sun, snow, cold, and dust, which can dry out the skin and lips. In such situations, it is essential to use protection, especially if you have sun allergy. We highly recommend purchasing lip balm and sunscreen, with costs ranging from $1 to $30. These products can be bought at trekking shops in Thamel, Kathmandu.
During Himalayan hiking and trekking, we consistently rely on nature for various needs. For long toilet breaks, it is essential to carry toilet paper. Whether at tea houses or during the trek, having a good quality toilet paper is crucial. We highly recommend purchasing it from Thamel trekking shops, where the cost ranges from $1 to $2.
During Himalayan hiking and trekking, where access to washing towels or hot water is limited, it is recommended to purchase wet paper. The cost starts from $2 and can go up to $8 at medical shops in Thamel.
During Himalayan hiking and trekking, the hotels are not luxurious; they are based on local standards. It is advisable to carry both a large and a small towel for drying the face and body. These items can be purchased at trekking shops in Thamel, with prices ranging from $2 to $20.
While hiking and trekking in the Himalayas, our duffel bag is carried by the porter. It is advisable to secure all your equipment inside the bag with a lock. We highly recommend purchasing a small lock, with costs ranging from $1 to $5, which can be found in Kathmandu's trekking shops.
During Himalayas hiking and trekking, most of the time, we are in remote areas and need to carry a basic medical kit with us. The emergency primary medicines we should have depend on our needs. You can buy them at a medical shop in the Thamel market. The basic first aid kit should include antiseptic cream, throat lozenges, diarrhea treatment (like loperamide), altitude sickness medication (such as acetazolamide), painkillers, insect repellent, plasters, blister treatment, insect repellent, and rehydration salts like Dioralite. Additionally, it's advisable to carry glucose tablets and multi-vitamin tablets.
Normally, when getting ready for Himalayan hiking and trekking, both physically and mentally, it's essential to have trekking poles. They provide support for another leg, and there are various types available. We highly recommend investing in a good quality pole.
Inside your sleeping bag, a liner is necessary to keep warm. Before and after trekking, comfortable city clothes are essential. You can use your old ones or opt to buy new ones depending on your preference.
During the trek, capturing different angles and views with a good camera is crucial. You can use your existing one or invest in a new camera based on your budget.
In case of emergencies or for general use during the trek, it's advisable to have a Swiss small knife. You can purchase all these items at Thamel trekking shops.
During Himalayan tours, including activities such as hiking, trekking, peak climbing, and expeditions, we strongly advise against bringing items such as jewelry, gold, excessive cash, large cameras, too many cotton clothes, thick towels, etc.
Born in a small village of Nuwakot, began his career in the tourism industry as a porter which helped him to become a professional experienced guide and now operating RP Treks sincerely.