How to Travel to EBC – Kathmandu to Everest Base Camp Travel Guide

The Himalayan region of Nepal is indeed a mountain museum with you surrounded by the mighty snow-capped peaks. While trekking through the laps of those multiple highest peaks, your everyday life will be all about them.

To reach this backdrop of grandeur, one must be mentally and physically fit, as this journey involves rugged paths and high elevations. However, there are multiple ways to reach Everest Base Camp. We are giving you the option of How to travel to EBC.

Yes, from novice travelers to highly experienced trekkers or people of all age groups, everyone can add this journey to their bucket list and accomplish it. There are a couple of means of transportation for this journey, from a short flight accompanied by days of trekking to an alternative helicopter ride.

In fact, due to these multiple transportation options for traveling to EBC, even this arduous journey is easily accessible to all age groups and experience levels. Hence, the dream of being up close to the highest land in the world is entirely possible as long as one has added it to one’s journey.

The Journey From Kathmandu To Everest Base Camp (EBC)

Making plans for Everest Base Camp will involve numerous travel options you can customize according to your budget, health, and timeline. In the meantime, you can travel by road or air, consolidating the itinerary plan to a single day or extending it to 21 days. Per your itinerary plan, the EBC journey also gets more or less challenging.

Via Road Or Air

The journeys to the Everest Base Camp via road and air are unique and come with their perks. While no road transportation facilities directly connect Kathmandu to Lukla, you can still reach it by road with a few more steps.

Kathmandu and Lukla are only connected by a direct flight; however, those who want to experience the road experience must take a detour and travel through Jiri and then to Salleri before reaching the Everest region. Indeed, it is an extended trip requiring more days and a physically and mentally prepared body.

Moving on, if you were to take a flight, you would directly reach Lukla within 35 minutes from Kathmandu and start trekking. Likewise, you can reach Lukla during busy seasons by taking an extended trip to Ramechhap. You will initially travel to Ramechhap either via bus or a flight and then move to catch a flight to Lukla.

Lastly, you can opt for a direct flight experience from Kathmandu to Everest Base Camp. Like many other trekking plans, this is also fully customizable, as you can travel back and forth in a single day. Additionally, you can trek the first half and then take a helicopter return or trek until you reach Namche Bazaar and take a helicopter ride for the rest of the journey.

Everest Base Camp (EBC) Journey Via Road

The EBC travel through roadways is always unique and will take you up close to the Himalayas and the ethnic communities like never before. Unlike accomplishing EBC via flight, there is no fear of cancellation as well.

Even as you will be traveling by jeep, you will have to trek along the way to reach the base camp. You can take a shared or private vehicle during your bus travel. This decision hugely depends on your comfort and budget. With a higher budget, you can book a private car to travel any time on your preferred schedule. However, a shared vehicle has a fixed departure time, and you will travel with numerous trekkers like yourself. It will help you save quite a bit.

A Typical Day To EBC Trek By Road

Usually, your journey to the Everest Base Camp trek by road starts early in the morning every day. Initially, you will drive from Kathmandu to Salleri (2,362 meters), which takes approximately 10 to 11 hours. Well, Sakkeri is the starting point of the actual journey.

You will take another 4 to 5 hours to reach Tham Danda from here. Starting here, you will have to trek initially towards Paiya, which will take 5 to 6 hours. Moving on, you must walk for 5 to 6 hours to reach Phakding (2,610 meters).

Walking along the Dudh Koshi River, you will soon reach Namche Bazaar after 5 to 6 hours. Following Namche Bazaar, you will cross Larcha Dovan and reach the acclimatization point. You can also enter the Sagarmatha National Park and enjoy the flora and fauna.

After that, you will trek through several traditional villages such as Tengboche (3,860 meters), Dingboche (4,410 meters), Lobuche (4,950 meters), and Gorakshep (5,164 meters). Finally, you will reach the Everest Base Camp (5,364 meters).

Lastly, you can climb Kala Patthar (5,644 meters) to get a better, closer experience of the Himalayas.

Difficulty During The Road Trip

The journey to Everest Base Camp is challenging throughout the trekking path due to rugged landscapes and steep climbs. This trek requires physical strength and experience, but one must also be mentally fit to conquer it.
However, the trek to the base camp can range from moderate to challenging depending on the season you are traveling, your altitude, and your physical endurance.

Moving on, the distance to the EBC is beyond 130 kilometers, and it is at an elevation of over 5,000 meters, increasing the chances of altitude sickness. Whether you are an experienced trekker or a novice traveler, Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) can happen to anyone. Hence, you should understand and be prepared to fight it.

Below are some tips to remember while suffering from AMS and to avoid it.

● Keep yourself hydrated throughout the journey. Drink at least 3 to 4 liters of water each day.
● Carry Diamox for prevention.
● If you suffer from altitude sickness, try to descend slowly with a friend or a guide. Do not spend much time at the altitude.
● Do not overstrain yourself, and give yourself time to rest.
● Meditation and yoga help you to relax and calm yourself.

Solo Vs. Guided Trek

While the Everest Base Camp is accessible for solo and group trekkers, it is not recommended to travel solo, especially for beginners, because of the rugged terrain in the area.

Traveling solo allows you to customize your EBC itinerary according to your preferences, extending or cutting the journey short whenever you want. Additionally, it also allows you the flexibility to manage your expenses.

Besides the benefits, traveling solo has cons, as safety is the primary concern. Navigating those remote terrains may pose potential harm without a guide due to weather conditions, sickness, and other factors you might be unable to comprehend independently. Furthermore, accessing medical support alone would be hard if you encounter unforeseen circumstances.

On the other hand, guided tours with a group are perfect for those looking forward to interacting with diverse people. In addition, with the guides to help you around, group tours provide you with the necessary information and even an opportunity to interact with the locals. On top of all, it eliminates the minor hassles of keeping reminders of your documents, bookings, permits, and so on, allowing you to enjoy and immerse yourself in the moment.

Now, checking its flip side, group treks are much more expensive than traveling solo. Likewise, the travel plans are already set and will only run per the schedule.

Everest Base Camp (EBC) Journey Via Flight And Helicopter

Anyone looking to travel to the Everest Base Camp within a limited timeframe should go for the trek via flight. The best thing about this journey is that you can plan it per your budget and timeline. You can also choose to trek some parts and take a helicopter for the rest of the journey.

This simple journey gives you a bird’s eye perspective of the Everest region. You can make a round trip and get the feel of the Himalayan region in a single day.

Below are the helicopter journeys that you can enjoy as per your timeline.

● Everest Base Camp Heli Tour (1 Day): Take a helicopter ride from Lukla to Base Camp and return.
● Everest Base Camp View Tour (2 to 3 Days): Take a helicopter tour from Lukla, spend a day at Everest View Hotel, reach the Base Camp, and return.
● Luxury Everest Base Camp Tour (5 Days): Trek from Lukla to Namche Bazaar and ride a helicopter.
● Everest Base Camp Trek With Helicopter Return (9 Days): Trek to Everest Base Camp, hike to Kala Patthar, and take a helicopter to return.

How To Reach Lukla Via Flight?

Reaching Lukla from Kathmandu offers two options: a direct flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, a round flight from Kathmandu to Ramechhap, and then to Lukla.

You can take a direct flight to Lukla from Kathmandu, which will only take 45 minutes. Secluded beauties surround you. However, if you plan to travel during the peak season, you must book your flight in advance, as it will be hard to get any bookings due to the large number of travelers.

The flight from Ramechhap to Lukla is the best choice during peak season. However, it is always safe to book in advance to avoid the hassle during the critical moment. To reach Ramechhap, you can take a flight or travel by road.

If you decide to take a flight, it will take around 30 minutes to reach Ramechhap from Kathmandu. From there onward, you should catch another flight to Lukla, which will take around 25 minutes.

Likewise, if you decide to reach Ramechhap through roadways, you will have another option: travel via bus or jeep. Both options will take around 4 to 5 hours to reach the city.

Is Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour Safe?

The Everest Base Camp Helicopter tours are operated under strict management and require licenses and permits set by the aviation authorities. Likewise, it is operated by pilots well-versed in the Himalayan terrain.

Furthermore, the helicopter tour initially comes with a detailed pre-flight safety briefing. It includes the details of safety features, guidelines, and emergency procedures to follow during the flight.

Not to mention, all the helicopters adhere to strict maintenance and inspection schedules. In the meantime, they are also thoroughly examined before and after each flight to maintain safety. Lastly, the helicopter tour takes you to a high altitude. Even though it’s for a few minutes, it may cause problems, and hence, they are well-prepared for any unforeseen circumstances with necessary emergency kits and first-aid.

What Is The Weight Limit For Helicopter Ride?

As the helicopter ride takes you above 5000 meters in altitude, it gets challenging to maintain the aircraft if it’s overweight. That is why there is a weight restriction on each ride. Of course, the weight limit depends upon the altitude you are flying and whether you are taking a private or shared flight.

Well, the helicopter ride can hold up to five people and up to 450 kg in limit. However, the twist is that the higher you fly, the lighter the helicopter weight should be. Depending on the situation, if you go for a Kala Patthar Helicopter landing, the weight limit is only 220 kg. However, if you plan to ride to Periche, the weight limit is 420 kg.

Private Vs. Shared Helicopter Flight

As you book your helicopter flight, you will come across two options: shared or a private adventure.

With private flights, you can soar higher as there are fewer people. You also have the freedom to select your flight’s location and landing point.

Moving on, the shared helicopter flight will have multiple people on the journey with a fixed schedule.

Below are some of the airlines that you can look for helicopter flights.

● Simrik Air
● Heli Everest Company
● Altitude Air
● Kailash Helicopter Service
● Mountain Helicopter
● Air Dynasty Heli Services
● Fishtail Air
● Manang Air
● Shree Airlines
● Prabhu Helicopter

Altitude Sickness During Helicopter Flight

It takes some time for the human body to process high altitude. Although the helicopter ride may be short, gaining such height may be harmful. If you suffer from altitude sickness, it may start with a slight headache and dizziness, which may evolve into vomiting and shortness of breath if not taken seriously.
Everest Base Camp Journey: Highlights And Details

● Region: Everest
● Destination: Everest Base Camp
● Starting And Ending Point: Lukla
● Distance: Lukla to Everest Base Camp – 130 kilometers (80.7 miles)
● Maximum Altitude: Kala Patthar (at 5,555 meters)
● Difficulty Level: Challenging
● Best Seasons: Spring (March, April, and May) and Autumn (September, October, and November)

The journey to the Everest Base Camp will take you through the Sagarmatha National Park and some of the authentic Sherpa communities. Some of the major highlights and attractions during the trip are mentioned below.

● Reach the famous viewpoint, Kala Patthar (at 5,555 meters).
● Stunning views of Mt Pumori, Khumbutse, Everest Shoulder, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Mount Makalu, Cho Oyu, and many more.
● Relaxing time at the Everest View Hotel.
● Explore the highest glacier in the world, the Khumbu Glacier.
● Scenic view of the region through Lukla flight.
● Explore the Sagarmatha National Park.
● Up-close view of the local Sherpa people’s authentic culture and lifestyle.
● Pass through several villages such as Namche Bazaar, Phakding, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, Gorakh Shep, and Periche.
● Visit the ancient monastery at Tengboche.
● Witness the variety of flora and fauna of the region.

Permits And Insurance For Everest Base Camp

Traveling to Everest Base Camp requires three major permits: the Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS), the Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit, and the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit.

The TIMS card is essential for all trekkers traveling to any region or route of Nepal. You can get this permit from the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or Pokhara. Likewise, you will require a Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit, which you will get after arriving in Lukla at Sagarmatha National Park Center. Initially, this permit will cost you NRs 2000, but the price will rise to NRs 2500 after four weeks.

Lastly, you can get the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit from Lukla. It is only needed for travelers above ten years of age.

Knowing if the helicopter operator has an aviation permit is essential for taking a helicopter ride to Everest Base Camp. The permit also permits you to land and approve the helicopter’s movements.

The permit costs are NRs 3,000 per person for a foreign national, NRs 1,500 for a SAARC national, and NRs 100 for a Nepali. Entry is free for children under 10. In addition, a 13% VAT is levied.

Best Seasons For Everest Base Camp Journey

The Everest Base Camp can be thoroughly enjoyed during the Spring (March, April, and May) and Autumn (September, October, and November) seasons.

During these seasons, the sky is much clearer without any obstruction. Additionally, the weather is clear, and the temperature is moderate, neither too cold nor too hot. Moving on, the surroundings are lush green with dense forests, and flowers are blooming everywhere.

Spring and Autumn are the peak seasons, with a vast crowd. Due to the high number of trekkers and travelers coming into the country, the flights are fully booked, and so are the accommodation facilities. Hence, you should book the flights and accommodation in advance.

Few travelers travel in the other seasons, Summer / Monsoon (June, July, and August) and Winter (December, January, and February), also called trekking off-season.

During the Summer / Monsoon season, the weather is cloudy with upcoming rain, and the paths are slippery. Often, many news stories of incidents, such as landslides, make the trails more dangerous.

As for the Winter season, the Everest region experiences heavy snowfall, which blocks most of the trails. Also, the trek gets much more challenging with avalanche warnings and blocked views. Generally, the flights also get canceled due to bad weather.

Packing List For Everest Base Camp Journey

The gear and your packing list are the main factors that can either make or break your journey. Hence, the right gear and packing list are necessary during travel.
Clothes For The Trip
● Waterproof jackets
● Waterproof trousers
● Lightweight down jacket
● Thermals
● Warm mid-layer
● Waterproof warm gloves
● Trekking t-shirts
● Hiking socks
● Biker shorts (for summer)
● Sun hat
● Undergarments
● Waterproof hiking boots
● Lightweight trainers
● Anti-slippery shoes
● Woolen scarf (for winter)
● Rain cover
Gears And Techs For The Trip
● Sleeping bag
● Torchlight and extra batteries
● Power bank
● Sunglasses
● Waterproof backpack
● Trekking poles
● Mobile chargers and adapters
● Water bottles

Toiletries And First Aid For The Trip

● Toilet paper
● Towels
● Wet wipes
● Soap bar
● Sunscreen
● Lip Guard
● Sanitizer
● Personal medicine
● Painkillers
● Vaseline
● Blister plasters
● Diamox (for altitude sickness)

How To Be a Responsible Traveler?

While traveling to the Everest Base Camp, you must enjoy your time fully. However, it is also crucial to be a responsible traveler. Even as the journey provides thrill and enjoyment, you should work to minimize your travel impact on the environment and people you are traveling with.

Respect Local Culture And Tradition

As a traveler, you should respect the local communities’ culture, lifestyle, and traditions. The people in the Everest region are much more conservative than the ones in the cities; hence, you should dress appropriately.

It would also help to avoid PDA (Public Display of Affection). The saying “When in Rome, do as Romans say” is pretty valid. Greet people by joining your hands and saying “Namaste” as a sign of respect. Also, do not forget to remove your shoes when entering someone’s house or religious sites.

Ask For Permission

Before taking photos or videos of the locals, always ask for permission. It may come across as rude if you start taking pictures or videos without asking for permission.

Do Not Litter

Only leave your footprints behind and dispose of your garbage in the correct areas. As remote areas might not have a proper waste management system, you should gather your garbage in one and later dispose of it in the right places instead of littering around.

Use a Reusable Water Bottle

You do not have to keep buying bottled water. Hence, it would help if you carried a reusable bottle. It is also essential to take a lightweight purification device or the pill.

Use A Proper Toilet

Do not use forest grounds or bushes for human business. Always look for properly managed washrooms. Eleven during the trails, you will find several teahouses, and if you ask for permission, the locals will let you use the restrooms.

Stick To The Trail

Always stick to the main trekking route, and do not wander off, making your new path. Doing so often destroys the flora of the region.

Treat Your Teammates Fairly

“Only do to others what you would like others to do to you.” This should be your motto during your trekking journey, and you should treat everyone on the team somewhat. Your guide and porter are the backbone of the trek, and they will be the first ones to cheer you up during the trek.

Stories of travelers asking their porters to carry overweight luggage often surface. However, porters are also humans, even when they seem to have extraordinary strength.

Tipping Culture.

While there is no compulsory tipping culture in Nepal, your guide or porter might expect it from you. Since trekking is their primary source of income, you should tip them generously.

In A Nutshell

The Everest Base Camp is a dream come true and a great experience. The best part is that people of all groups can enjoy it. Today, you have various options while going on the trek. You can choose to travel via air or road.

Additionally, you can adjust the journey according to your timetable and budget. Now, keep traveling, but also make sure to do it responsibly!