Short Everest Base Camp Trek- 12 days

• Flying to Lukla from Kathmandu offers the most magnificent bird' s-eye view of the Himalayan range.
• Namche has a Friday market day; exploring it is one activity we recommend to anyone wishing to travel in this region. Visitors can visit various shops and cafes, accompanied by scenic peaks.
• Tengboche is home to the legendary monastery of the same name, one of the largest religious shrines in the region. The monastery provides spectacular views of Mount Everest and Mt. Ama Dablam.
• Hike to Dingboche and, take pleasure in the change of environment to a metaphorical desert, glance at beautiful Mount Lhotse and Makalu.
• Cross through the village of Lobuche, follow the Khumbu Glacier, and follow through Stone Memorials.
• Reach Everest Base Camp, a place from where climbers embark and where the magical aura of this place lies.
• It's advisable to hike early in the morning for the best view of Mount Everest, especially the unique sunrise on Kala Patthar.
• Interact with the Sherpa people and their cultural system, and adapt to the harshest climate in the region.
• See different sceneries, ranging from forests to rocks that can visually examine the Himalayas.
• Hike past the magnificent Khumbu Glacier, a significant feature on the route.

Everest Base Camp short trek - a geographic beauty and climbing attractions that preserve cultural value, The Everest Region has become one of the most attractive tourist destinations. The tallest mountain in the world. Mt. Everest at an altitude of (8,848 meters/ 29,032 feet), dominates the mountain range along with  Mt. Lhotse (8,516 meters/ 27,940 ft), Mt. Nuptse (7,861 meters/ 25,790 ft), and Mt. Makalu (8,485 meters/ 27,838 feet). The area also has outstanding physical features; glaciers and deep gorges which is also one of the trekking attractions around this region. The season, the weather is almost unpredictable however, spring and autumn is the most favourable season for a successful journey.

For a 12 days Short Everest Base Camp trek, one must obtain Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit to enter the Khumbu region. Along the route, you can find different kinds of flora and faunas such as rhododendron forests, rare orchids, Himalayan tahr, red pandas, and snow leopards. 

Other than that you’ll climb the beautiful vantage point, Kala Patthar, where you’ll have spectacular views of Mount Everest and other neighbouring mountains. You’ll also feel a religious setting of the Buddhist monastery in Tengboche Monastery in Tengboche. This particular monastery represents the Sherpa people, their culture, their tradition and their history as well. Also, interact and get to know about their daily lifestyle in villages like Namche Bazaar, Dingboche, Lobuche, etc. 

Explore the soul of the great Himalayan range in just 12 days!

How does your Everest Base Camp Short Trek start and end?

Short Everest Base Camp Trek of 12 days starts from a short flight to Lukla from Kathmandu and ends in Kathmandu only after a short flight from Lukla. you will begin trekking through tropical forests, crossing several rivers, and passing from village to village to village of the traditional alive Sherpa settlements such as Phakding and Monjo. In the next few days, you'll cover more altitudes of pinewoods, monasteries, and mesmerizing mountains. For instance, there is Namche Bazaar- the largest Sherpa trading center and beautiful places such as Deboche and Dingboche- small villages where the expeditioners' bodies adjust to higher altitudes surrounded by the enormous Himalayas.

The trip is near the end. You'll climb to Kala Patthar for an extraordinary view of Mount Everest at sunrise. When you are done with the spectacular view, you'll descend back to Gorak Shep. After spending quality time, you'll start your journey back to Lukla, from where you will fly to Kathmandu. We'll bid our hearty goodbye, and that sums up the short trek to Everest Base Camp.

Altitude distance coverage of Everest Base Camp Short Trek

Best season/ time for Everest Base Camp Short Trek

The best time for Everest Base Camp Trek doesn't matter if you are interested and willing to take risks, but it depends on your preferences. However, according to Yeti Hikes, the best season for this trek is either Spring or Autumn, when the weather and temperature are worth traveling around Nepal.

Spring (March-May)

The rates of average day temperatures are 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F) at low levels of altitude, while the temperature at night can drop to 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). With that, you'll get to experience explosive growth of flora, rhododendrons, and other wildflowers, especially in the lower altitudes. You'll get to explore enhanced wildlife activity with the opportunity to spot the Himalayan Tahr and Musk Deer and various bird species. You'll get to witness a significant Buddhist festival, Buddha Jayanti, that brings life and color to the monasteries in the Everest Region with local festival celebrations (Dashain, Tihar) along with farming practices and seasonal livelihoods. The trails are primarily available this season, and light precipitation may sometimes happen. Villages look cleaner, and you will have clear views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and many other great peaks.

Autumn (September-November)

Autumn has fewer showers than monsoon, making the trails less slippery when they dry up after several hours of dew. Day temperatures in autumn are between 10 °C to 20 °C (50°F to 68°F) in lowlands, and night temperatures are approximately 0 °C to 10 °C (32°F to 50°F). Wildlife appears active, with favorable sights, winter Himalayan Tahr and different bird types can be seen. The sky is apparent, allowing one to clearly see some of the most enormous mountains, such as Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. In a cultural sense, autumn is exceptional in the region, particularly the festivals of Dashain and Tihar, which are the colors of the festival with great joy. Such fairs give life and paint monasteries and villages full of local colors. The trails are relatively more accessible to negotiate and, for the most part, passable even during this season, which is why it is the best time for trekking and discovering the beauty of the region. There can be light rain, but it is not very frequent and does not interfere with outdoor activities.

The Everest Base Camp Trek Short adventure is usually accomplished in two seasons which are spring and autumn; it is because the temperatures are consistent and clear skies give a good view of the mountains. During the monsoon season, there will be frequent rainfalls, which will make the trails slippery and increase the danger of landslides and poor visibility. On the contrary, the winter season is characterized by extremely low temperatures, frequent snowfalls, and lousy weather, complicating the possibility of trekking and even creating dangerous conditions. Both seasons make mountain conditions unsuitable for trekking, so spring and autumn are the best times for a safer and more pleasant trip.

Accommodation during the Short Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek

• Kathmandu Accommodation Short EBC trekking

Upon arrival and departure, you'll have a total of 2 nights in a designated hotel, which is comfortable and well-maintained for 3-star hotels in the core of Thamel, tourists' central point. Hotels include:

• • Lo Mustang Hotel
  • Ramada Encore Hotel
  • Moonlight Hotel
  • Thamel Park Hotel

Your inn includes a shared room or a room for two and a welcome and farewell dinner. All rooms provide a private bathroom, a TV, and enough storage for your luggage. If you wish for solo accommodation or an inclusive stay, you can upgrade to a 4- or 5-star hotel at an additional cost.

• Short EBC accommodation during the trek

Many teahouses and lodges are available to trekkers throughout the trekking route. They provide the bare necessities, such as a dormitory or private accommodation couched with shared bath facilities. Even though facilities differ, bedding, hot showers, and heat for the living room and dinner area are common, and trekkers can move around and socialize after a tiring day of adventure. The dining areas offer a number of local and worldwide meals; trekkers can taste Sherpa Cuisine in the area.

Since teahouses are located in various villages, including Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, and Lobuche, they help travelers rest and acclimate. In conclusion, teahouses allow one to get acquainted with the profiles and coziness of the districts one passes through and get a comfortable place to rest during the entire route.

How secure is it to go for an Everest Base Camp Short trekking?

The EBC Short trek is pleasant yet very volatile, and safety prevails throughout the trekking area. Firstly, the team of Yeti Hikes recommends you start your trek early in the pre-monsoon season, which is from March to the end of May, and the other second best season is post-monsoon, from September to the middle of November. In these seasons, the status of the trails are more constant than other seasons as the above information illustrates. That is why prepare for adverse weather conditions is one of the easiest, especially if you always check the weather calendar to know the changes. The same may happen with the rain or snow, which is why one must always be prepared and have on themselves the proper and needed clothing and equipment, which mean including warm and waterproof. Second, is Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). To minimize it, one must pay attention to her body and learn the signs of symptoms including headaches and dizziness.

Both physical and mental fitness are required for a successful EBC trek. You can start by increasing your physical stability with exercises through other athletic activities. It would be best if you were stress-free and mainly concentrate on enjoying yourself and your health. Meditation, deep breathing, and stretching is essential to mental strength because you need to be self-confident, composed, and motivated. 

The trekking routes are isolated and need to be more easily transportable. You need to carry a first-aid kit for emergencies. Joint injuries are typical and can be covered by first-aid kits, but there are more unavoidable injuries and life-threatening issues. So, travel insurance is required because of the remote areas and minimum medical facilities.

Last, but not least, we, Yeti Hikes, tag experienced guides and porters to add extra safety and support during your trek. In the field, they can assist in directing you to the place or contain any incident that may happen on the trail. It is almost impossible to communicate in these areas, so you should take a satellite phone or GPS device to call for help in case of an emergency. With these measures instituted, the EBC journey shall be as full of fun as it should be and as safe as possible.

Food and Beverage options during the Short EBC trek

You'll find various food options at teahouses and lodges along the trek. 

As the options may be limited, it is recommended that you carry bottled water for drinking, energy bars, nuts, chocolates, and biscuits. Alcohol drinks are also available but not favored as it may increase the risk of AMS and dehydration.

Toilet/ Bathroom facilities during the Short Everest Base Camp trekking

Available toilet facilities during Short EBC Trek again depend on altitude as well as the kind of accommodation one is undertaking. In the lower villages such as Lukla and Namche Bazaar, trekkers to livestock lodges and teahouses can expect western-style toilets. Sometimes, the teahouses found at the higher altitudes are comparatively primitive, and you may have to face the locally styled squat toilets, which are also prevalent in Nepal. This makes them less favored, not often cleaned or may not be cleaned at all sometimes. One should also pack their personal effects, such as rolls of tissue paper and alcoholic hand sanitizers because they are mostly not disinfected or missing. Moreover, it may be required that trekkers pay an amount for lavatories available in few area of the region. Water may also be unavailable for purposes of flushing or washing hands. Therefore, people are encouraged to wash their hands at appropriate times with available water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

Bathroom facilities, which often include showers and washing areas, also vary significantly along the trek. In lower areas, like Namche Bazaar, many teahouses offer hot showers, either through electric heaters or gas-powered systems, sometimes for an additional fee. These facilities may also include Western-style sinks and running water. As you climb higher, however, hot water availability becomes more limited, and some teahouses may only provide cold water or no running water at all. You can expect basic bathing facilities, and in higher altitudes, many may have to settle for sponge baths or wet wipes due to the lack of showers. In terms of the common wash can be substandard. In summary, you all need to be ready for differences in comfort for toilets and bathrooms all through the trek to EBC, as well as differences in cleanliness and water sources in remote areas.

Internet and Wifi-availability along the EBC short trek

During the Short Everest Base Camp, staying connected requires choosing the right mobile service provider and internet packages.

These are some of the following options available:

• Local SIM Cards

You can easily purchase local SIM cards around airport areas and shops, but you'll need to present a copy of your passport and a passport-sized photo.

• Popular and Roaming Packages

Ncell, NTC, and Airlink SIM provide packages. If you prefer to keep your home SIM, get help from your guide for international roaming packages. However, roaming charges can be expensive.

• Pocket Wi-Fi Rentals

You can rent or buy a portable Wi-Fi device in Kathmandu. This device provides internet access for multiple devices and can be a convenient option for groups.

Phones and Gadgets charging

Short EBC trek and phone charging can be best achieved with some planning. As you move on, charging services are available at most teahouses but will charge you extra. So, carrying a high-capacity portable battery charger (power bank) is recommended. Carry appropriate adapters, two-pin or three-pin, solely depending on the outlets available and the best-quality cables with you. To save battery, set low brightness and close all unnecessary applications when unnecessary. Also, carry extra batteries for the torch, camera to capture memories, and other gadgets such as GPS Device, Portable Speaker, Fitness Tracker, Satellite Phone, etc. You can either bring these things or buy them in Kathmandu.

Outline Itinerary for Short Everest Base Camp Trek

Day 01: Fly to Lukla from Kathmandu and trek to Phakding
Day 02: Trek to Namche Bazaar
Day 03: Acclimatization at Namche Bazaar
Day 04: Trek to Tengboche
Day 05: Trek to Dingboche
Day 06: Acclimatization at Dingboche
Day 07: Trek to Lobuche
Day 08: Trek to Everest Base Camp via Gorak Shep
Day 09: Hike to Kala Patthar and Trek to Pheriche
Day 10: Trek to Namche Bazaar
Day 11: Trek to Lukla
Day 12: Flight from Lukla to Kathmandu and transfer to hotel

• Accommodation for 12 nights in teahouses.
• A highly experienced, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly, English-speaking, well-trained, Government-licensed guide. The price includes his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport, and insurance.
• Sagarmatha National Park Permit, Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entry Permit, TIMS Card.
• Three meals a day: breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and tea/coffee during the trekking.
• Safe drinking water.
• First-add kit box.
• Yeti Hikes's T-shirt, cap, duffle bags, city and trekking route maps – if necessary.
• Arrangement of emergency evacuation service (should have insurance for emergency evacuation and will be paid by your travel insurance company)

• The fees associated with your Nepal visa.
• The fees associated with your flight.
• Insurance for helicopter evacuation, as well as personal travel and health insurance.
• Extra nights of accommodation, lunch, and dinner in the city
• Your expenses, including laundry, baggage charges, phone calls, battery recharges, bar and beverage bills, boiled or bottled water, hot and cold showers, and an additional attendant, are as follows.
• The tips for the trekking personnel and drivers.
• Additional expenses that arise as a result of flight delays, strikes, weather conditions, or any other event beyond our control.

Detailed information about flying into Lukla

Lukla Airport, Tenzing Hillary Airport, is also referred to as the gateway to 'Mount Everest', established at an unbelievably challenging height- the Himalayas. Its runway is short and the end of the strip is located near a cliff; therefore, each landing takes the flavor of a thrilling experience. You'll feel this rush of excitement as you'll be greeted with the icy mountains and the thought of the next day.

Lukla flight from Ramecchap/ Manthali Airport

Flying from Ramechhap/Manthali provides an alternative starting point for your Everest Base Camp adventure. After a scenic 5-6 hour drive from Kathmandu, you'll board a short 20-minute flight to Lukla. During peak seasons (March-May and October-November), flights are often redirected to Ramechhap due to the heavy air traffic at Kathmandu's airport, making this route a more efficient and less crowded.

Direct flight from Kathmandu to Lukla

During the off-season, you can directly fly from Kathmandu airport to Lukla airport, which will take you almost 35 minutes to reach.

It is essential to understand that flights may vary depending on the airline and unfavorable factors like unfavorable weather, runway issues, etc. To cover this, Yeti Hikes recommends adding an extra day or two to your Everest Base Camp hike plan.

Baggage allowances in Lukla's flight

The aircraft used for the flight to Lukla is comparatively smaller, and according to the airline's guidelines, you should pack light for safety concerns.

• Total Baggage Limit: 15 kg (33 lbs) per person
• Checked Luggage: 10 kg (22 lbs)
• Carry-On: 5 kg (11 lbs)

Space availability may be increased with additional cost. However, it is recommended to halt with a 15 kg (33 lbs) limit.

Required documents and permits for Short Everest Base Camp Trekking

Considering the Short Everest Base Camp Trek, which takes 12 days, several documents and permits are required due to its location. Here's a breakdown of the licenses you'll need:

Passport and Visa

• You'll need a valid passport (valid for at least six months) and a Nepal tourist visa. The visa can be obtained on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.
• For a 12-day trek, the 30-day visa is ideal, as it costs around US$ 50.

Travel Insurance

• It is not mandatory, but you must have a travel insurance policy covering trekking at a higher altitude. Always keep a photocopy of your insurance policy and emergency numbers.

Medical Certificate

• It is required as some may request a medical certificate to confirm the absence of chronic diseases and the ability to undertake strenuous activities.

Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit

• You'll need this permit to enter the Sagarmatha National Park.
• Cost: US$22 per person.

Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entry Permit

• You'll need this permit to enter the Khumbu Region, including the EBC trek.
• Cost: US$15 per person.

Trekking Information Management System (TIMS)

• A TIMS card is typically required for trekking in Nepal, but for this hike, the "Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit" takes precedence, so you don't need a TIMS card if you have both the permits as mentioned above.

Documents required to apply permit applications:

• A clear passport-size scanned copy of the passport has a validity of at least six months.
• Passport-sized photos as per requirements.
• Trekking Itinerary Details.
• Cash (Nepalese Rupees) for permit fees.
• Additional documents are required as specified by the permit office or trekking agency.

You should obtain the permits through a registered trekking agency and check with them to ensure all the paperwork is in order before starting your trek.

You can visit the Permits and Document page for more information regarding permits and documents.

Travel insurance for Short EBC trek

The trail routes are isolated and aren't easily transport accessible. Joint injuries are standard but there are more unavoidable injuries as well as life-threatening issues. So, travel insurance is required because of the remote areas and minimum medical facilities. In case of life-threatening injuries, you have to return back to Kathmandu, which is quite time-consuming for roadways, and hence, airways (helicopter, airplane) insurance is necessary for urgent evacuation.

Why is it important?

• High-altitude Coverage

During the Short Everest Base Camp trek, trekkers reaches an altitude of over 5,555 meters (18, 225 FT) at Kala Patthar, so you need insurance that covers adventure above 5,000 meters.

• Medical Expenses & Evacuation

Your insurance should cover emergency medical treatment and evacuation (including helicopter rescue) in case of altitude sickness, injuries, or other medical emergencies. The remote nature of the hike makes helicopter evacuation the fastest and safest option.

• Trip Cancellation & Interruption

If unforeseen circumstances, such as illness, accidents, or natural disasters, force you to cancel or cut short your journey, ensure your insurance covers trip cancellations and interruptions.

• Lost or Delayed Baggage

The adventure involves traveling with essential gear. Insurance should cover lost or delayed baggage, especially if you lose crucial items like trekking gear or documents.

• Personal Liability

This coverage will protect you in case of accidental damage to property or injury to others during your trek.

• Repatriation

In the unlikely event of death or severe medical conditions, your insurance should cover the costs of repatriation back to your home country.

Recommended Providers

Many insurance providers offer travel insurance tailored to high-altitude trekking in Nepal, such as:

• World Nomads
• InsureMyTrip
• Global Rescue
• Allianz Travel Insurance

Can a beginner trek Everest Base Camp short trek?

Beginners can easily trek any region with adequate physical fitness and a strong mentality. The Short Everest Base Camp trek can be quite challenging, requiring 5 to 8 hours of walking each day on uneven terrain. This difficulty can be significantly pronounced without prior experience and adequate training. However, there is always time to take on this adventure! Starters can focus on building their physical fitness and maintaining a positive mindset, ensuring they are well-prepared to embark on this incredible journey whenever they are ready.

What to do to avoid AMS during the Short Everest Base Camp Trek?

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is one of the primary concerns for every traveler. Prevention is possible, but some solutions decrease it significantly enough to be worth considering.

The common symptoms of AMS are as follows:

• Headache.
• Nausea and Vomiting.
• Dizziness.
• Fatigue.
• Loss of Appetite.
• Difficulty in Sleep.
• Increase in Heart Rate.
• Swelled Body Parts.

Severe AMS can lead to life-threatening conditions and complications like High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) or High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE).

Avoiding it is crucial, but some effective preventions (strategies) can minimize it.

• Acclimatization

In this, it will be most advisable to climb gradually and progressively, giving the body time to acclimatize to the rising altitude and also to include rest days in one's climbing schedule

• Stay Hydrated

Hydration can effectively reverse the AMS slowly, over time. Ideally, one should drink 3-4 liters of water per day, and alcohol and caffeine should be avoided to the maximum.

• Nutrition

Please pay attention to eating carbohydrate-rich foods like rice, fruits, and breads, among others, in small portions since they ease digestion and provide energy.

• Physical stability and medications

Intensive care patients are not receiving commonly prescribed medications, likely due to their physical stability and consequent lack of agitation. Agreeing that your body needs to be ready for vigorous activities in order to improve strength and endurance; taking essential medicines (first aid kit) for headaches or nausea is compulsory.

• Monitor your body

To minimize the risk, you need to learn to be sensitive to signals from your physical body, such as headaches and dizziness.

Tipping suggestions for your Everest Base Camp Short Hike

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; always express your kindness. It is a massive culture in trekking industry common practice as well, hence, you are suggested to set aside 10% to 15% of your total trek cost to support guides and porters. Consider pooling tips with your group and carry small denominations of Nepali Rupees for ease in trekking.

Extra expenses for Short Everest base camp trek

With the trek cost of the entire trip, including the tips, it is recommended to carry extra cash for purchasing essential snacks and beverages. Depending on your choice and preferences, having a flexible budget is required to buy souvenirs or post-trek celebrations. There is no hidden cost with Yeti Hikes and we recommend you to bring smaller bills.

For a 12 days short Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek, you’ll need to pack efficiently to stay comfortable and prepared for the range of weather and trail conditions. Here’s a list of essential items:

Clothing

1. Base Layers

   • Thermal tops and bottoms (for warmth at night).
   • Moisture-wicking t-shirts (2-3, quick-dry fabric).
   • Lightweight trekking pants (convertible into shorts if possible).

2. Insulating Layers

   • Fleece jacket or sweater.
   • Insulated down jacket (for colder nights and higher altitudes).

3. Outer Layers

   • Waterproof and windproof jacket.
   • Waterproof pants.

4. Hiking Socks

   • Wool or synthetic socks (3-4 pairs).
   • Liner socks (optional, to prevent blisters).

5. Accessories

   • Hat (for sun protection).
   • Beanie or warm hat (for higher altitudes).
   • Buff or scarf (to protect against wind and dust).
   • Gloves (both lightweight and insulated if possible).

Footwear

1. Hiking Boots
   • Sturdy, waterproof trekking boots (well-broken-in).
2. Camp Shoes
   • Lightweight sandals or camp shoes for resting in the evenings.

Backpacks

1. Daypack (20-30L)
   • For essentials like snacks, water, and rain gear.
2. Duffel Bag (if using porters)
   • You may need a duffel for the bulk of your gear if you’re hiring porters.

Trekking Gear

1. Trekking Poles

   • Helpful for balance and reducing stress on knees.

2. Sleeping Bag

   • Rated for temperatures below freezing (around -10°C/14°F).

3. Water Bottles

   • Reusable bottles or a hydration bladder (2-3 liters capacity).

4. Water Purification

   • Tablets, drops, or a portable filter to avoid purchasing bottled water.

5. Headlamp

   • With extra batteries (essential for early starts or evening walks).

6. Sunglasses

   • UV protection to safeguard against strong sunlight at altitude.

7. Trekking Map and Compass

   • Optional, but can help you follow along with the route.

Toiletries

1. Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
2. Lip Balm (with SPF)
3. Toilet Paper
4. Wet Wipes
5. Hand Sanitizer
6. Biodegradable Soap/Shampoo
7. Toothbrush and Toothpaste

First Aid & Medication

1. Personal Medication

   • Bring a sufficient supply of any prescribed medications.

2. Basic First Aid Kit

   • Painkillers, blister care (like moleskin), band-aids, and antiseptic cream.

3. Altitude Sickness Medication

   • Such as acetazolamide (consult your doctor before taking).

Snacks and Energy Foods

1. High-Energy Snacks
   • Protein bars, nuts, dried fruit, chocolate, or energy gels for extra fuel on the trail.

Electronics

1. Camera/Phone

   • For capturing memories.

2. Portable Charger/Power Bank

   • Charging points may be scarce and expensive.

3. Spare Batteries

   • Cold weather can drain batteries quickly.

Miscellaneous

1. Money

   • Carry enough cash for food, charging, and tips in remote areas.

2. Trekking Permits and Passport Copies

   • Ensure you have copies of your TIMS Card, Khumbu Rural Municipality permit and Sagarmatha National Park entry permit as well as your passport.

3. Small Locks

   • For your bags.

Packing wisely can make a significant difference on this short trek to EBC, so focus on essentials and try to keep your load manageable. Safe travels!