Budget Everest Base Camp Trek 2025/2026 - Affordable Adventure to EBC
Do you want to trek and enjoy an adventurous trip in Everest's rocky and high-altitude region? Book our Everest Base Camp Budget Trek and experience the adventure of a lifetime at an affordable cost.
The Everest Base Camp Budget Trek is one of the most thrilling and iconic journeys in Nepal. This trek offers not only breathtaking Himalayan views but also an enriching experience of Sherpa culture, ancient monasteries, and scenic high-altitude villages. Let us guide you through the heart of the Khumbu region, where you’ll explore majestic valleys, cross suspension bridges, and enjoy panoramic sights of some of the world’s tallest peaks.
Have you always dreamed of standing beneath Mount Everest? Our budget-friendly Everest Base Camp itinerary is designed with proper acclimatization to minimize altitude sickness while maximizing your trekking experience. Walk through the famous Sherpa towns of Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, and Gorakshep, while marveling at towering giants like Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku.
Though the Budget Everest Base Camp Trek is moderately challenging, it doesn’t require mountaineering skills—just a good level of fitness and the spirit for adventure. You’ll trek 5–6 hours per day at your own pace, supported by our experienced Sherpa guides and friendly porters.
The trek begins with an exciting 35-minute flight to Lukla (or via Ramechhap during peak seasons), and from there, you’ll hike through alpine forests, yak pastures, and glacial valleys all the way to Everest Base Camp (5,364m) and the spectacular viewpoint of Kalapatthar (5,545m).
Holiday Planner Treks offers one of the best-value Everest trekking packages with 11 days of adventure, including teahouse and lodge accommodations. Our dedicated team ensures safety, comfort, and an authentic Himalayan experienceinstead of Kathmandu. All necessary ground transfers are included.
Join us on this unforgettable journey and make your dream of reaching Everest Base Camp come true—without breaking the bank.
Budget-friendly adventure to the world’s highest base camp
Scenic 35-minute flight to Lukla (or drive to Ramechhap and short flight during peak season)
Trek through iconic Sherpa villages: Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, and Gorakshep
Panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and other Himalayan peaks
Spectacular sunrise and 360° mountain panorama from Kalapatthar (5,545m)
Cultural exploration of ancient monasteries, including Tengboche Monastery
Warm Sherpa hospitality and insight into traditional mountain life
Walking trails along the Dudh Koshi River and high-altitude suspension bridges
Exploration of Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Safe altitude gain with well-planned acclimatization days
Overnight stays in teahouses and mountain lodges
Encounter glaciers, prayer flags, mani walls, and yak caravans
Reach Everest Base Camp at 5,364 meters – a once-in-a-lifetime achievement
Guided by experienced Sherpa leaders and support crew
11-day itinerary suitable for trekkers with moderate fitness
| Group Size | Cost Per Person (USD) |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $1199 |
| 2-3 people | 999 |
| 4-6 people | $950 |
| 7-10 people | $930 |
Note: Prices are subject to availability and trekking season. The cost includes guides, permits, domestic flights, and accommodations.
Trek Duration
The Everest Base Camp Budget Trek usually lasts for 12 days, including arrival and departure from Kathmandu. The trekking part itself—starting from Lukla, reaching Everest Base Camp, and returning to Lukla—takes about 11 days. This itinerary includes acclimatization days to help your body adjust to the altitude and ensures you complete the trek safely and without rushing. The trek is designed to balance challenge with comfort, making sure that trekkers have enough time to enjoy the journey, adapt to high altitudes, and take in the beauty of the Himalayas.
Maximum Altitude
The highest point you’ll reach on this trek is Kalapatthar at 5,545 meters. It is considered the best vantage point for panoramic views of Mount Everest and nearby peaks like Lhotse, Nuptse, and Pumori. Everest Base Camp itself stands at 5,364 meters, situated on the Khumbu Glacier. Although you don’t climb Everest, standing at the base surrounded by massive snow-capped giants is an unforgettable experience. Proper acclimatization and slow ascent are crucial to avoid altitude sickness at these heights.
Trek Difficulty Level
This trek is categorized as moderate to challenging. While no technical climbing skills are required, trekkers need to be in good physical condition to walk 5 to 7 hours a day on mountainous terrain. The trail includes steep ascents, rocky paths, and occasional snow depending on the season. The thinner air at higher altitudes makes breathing more difficult, so it’s essential to train beforehand. With the right mindset, preparation, and pacing, even first-time trekkers can complete this journey successfully.
Best Time to Trek
The most recommended seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is stable, skies are generally clear, and mountain views are breathtaking. Spring also brings blooming rhododendrons and moderate temperatures, while autumn offers cool air and crisp visibility. Monsoon season (June to August) is not advisable due to frequent rain, landslides, and poor visibility. Winter (December to February) is cold and snowy, especially above 4,000 meters, but fewer trekkers on the trail can be an advantage if you’re well-prepared for cold.
Flight Information (Lukla Access)
In peak trekking seasons (April–May and October–November), flights to Lukla operate from Ramechhap Airport (also known as Manthali), which is a 4 to 5-hour early morning drive from Kathmandu. This change helps reduce congestion at Kathmandu airport. Off-season travelers may still fly directly from Kathmandu to Lukla. Our package includes private vehicle transfer from Kathmandu to Ramechhap and back, ensuring a smooth and timely connection for your trek.
Accommodation Type
Along the trail, you’ll stay in traditional mountain teahouses. These lodges provide basic yet cozy accommodation—usually twin-sharing rooms with wooden beds, mattresses, pillows, and blankets. Toilets are mostly shared and squat-style at higher altitudes. In lower villages, you may find Western toilets and slightly better amenities. Heating is available only in dining areas via a yak-dung stove or kerosene heater. Some teahouses offer Wi-Fi and hot showers at an additional cost. The charm of these teahouses lies in their warm hospitality and cultural atmosphere.
Meals Included
Our Everest Base Camp Budget Trek includes three full meals daily—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—during the trek. You’ll be served local, nutritious, and energy-boosting meals such as Dal Bhat (rice, lentils, vegetables), Tibetan bread, noodle soup, fried rice, momos, chapatis, boiled eggs, and porridge. Hot beverages like tea, coffee, and lemon ginger honey are commonly available. Vegetarian meals are easy to find, and teahouses take hygiene seriously. Meals in Kathmandu are not included in the budget plan, except breakfast at your hotel.
Guide and Porter Support
You’ll be accompanied by a licensed and experienced English-speaking trekking guide who ensures your safety, offers insights into local culture, and manages the daily itinerary. Porters are also included—one porter for every two trekkers—to carry your duffel bags, limited to 10–12 kg per person. This allows you to trek with just a daypack, carrying water, snacks, and essentials. Our Sherpa support team is highly reliable and familiar with the trail and emergency protocols, ensuring peace of mind throughout the trek.
Trekking Permits
To enter the Everest region, you’ll need two official permits: the Sagarmatha National Park Permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit. The national park permit costs NPR 3,000 per person, while the local permit is NPR 3,000. These permits are mandatory and checked at various points during the trek. We take care of the permit arrangements on your behalf before your trek starts, so you don’t have to worry about paperwork or procedures.
Wi-Fi, Electricity & Charging
Wi-Fi is available in most teahouses, especially in Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, and Lukla, though it comes at an extra cost (approx. NPR 500–1,000 per card or session). Charging your phone or camera also incurs fees—usually NPR 200 to NPR 400 per hour depending on the altitude. Power cuts are common in the mountains, so carrying a fully charged power bank or solar charger is recommended. Buying a local Ncell or Nepal Telecom SIM card with data can also help you stay connected during the lower part of the trek.
Travel Insurance (Mandatory)
Travel insurance is a must for the Everest Base Camp trek. Your policy must specifically cover high-altitude trekking (up to 6,000 meters) and emergency evacuation by helicopter, in case of severe altitude sickness or accidents. Medical treatment, trip delays, and cancellations should also be included. Please send us a copy of your insurance details before the trek. Without proper insurance, helicopter rescue can cost thousands of dollars and must be paid upfront.
Altitude Sickness Awareness
Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is a real risk during high-altitude trekking. Common symptoms include headache, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, and shortness of breath. To reduce the risk, our itinerary includes rest and acclimatization days in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche. We advise all trekkers to drink plenty of fluids, avoid alcohol and smoking, and climb gradually. Inform your guide immediately if symptoms worsen. Diamox (acetazolamide) may be used for prevention, but always consult your doctor beforehand.
Budget Trekking Tips
ATMs are available only up to Namche Bazaar, so carry enough Nepali rupees in cash for extra expenses such as Wi-Fi, charging, hot showers, snacks, and tips. It’s wise to pack reusable water bottles, water purification tablets or filters, and energy bars. Renting trekking gear in Kathmandu is far more economical than buying new. Avoid overpacking—each porter carries luggage for two trekkers. Stick to the essentials, and pack light yet warm.
Trekking Gear Requirements
Essential trekking gear includes a quality down jacket, a sleeping bag rated to at least -10°C, thermal base layers, trekking boots, waterproof outerwear, gloves, woolen socks, a sun hat, a beanie, and UV-protected sunglasses. Also bring a headlamp with extra batteries, trekking poles, a rain poncho or jacket, sunscreen, and a personal first-aid kit. All of this gear is available for rent or purchase in Kathmandu. A detailed gear checklist will be provided upon booking.
If you’re looking for an affordable, safe, and well-planned trek to Everest Base Camp, this is your perfect option. You will experience the best of the Khumbu region, stunning mountain views, and Sherpa culture at the lowest possible cost.
Book now for 2025/2026 and make your dream of trekking to Everest Base Camp a reality!
After an exciting early morning flight from either Kathmandu or Ramechhap, where you’ll catch amazing aerial views of the Himalayan range, including peaks like Gauri Shankar and Melungtse, you’ll land at Lukla’s Tenzing-Hillary Airport. The flight is short but packed with incredible scenery as the plane swoops between towering hills and deep valleys.
Once in Lukla, your trek officially begins. You’ll walk through Lukla village for about 15 minutes, passing the bustling streets lined with shops and teahouses. Soon, you’ll leave Lukla behind and follow a well-maintained trail.
First 30 minutes: You’ll walk on a mostly flat trail through a scenic area, with views of terraced fields and distant hills. After about 30 minutes, you’ll reach the village of Chheplung (2,660m), a small settlement with a few lodges.
Next 20 minutes: From Chheplung, the trail starts to descend. You’ll walk downhill for about 20 minutes, and after crossing a suspension bridge over the Dudh Koshi River, you’ll arrive at Thado Kosi. Here, you’ll see stunning views of Kusum Kanguru (6,367m) towering over the valley.
Next 30 minutes: After crossing the river, you’ll begin a gentle 30-minute climb up to Ghat (2,530m), a village known for its beautiful stone Mani walls and intricate prayer wheels. Along the way, you’ll pass through rhododendron forests and see locals carrying goods on the trails, giving you an authentic feel of daily life in the region.
Final 50 minutes: The trail from Ghat to Phakding is a mixture of flat sections and gentle uphill climbs. After 30 minutes of flat walking, you’ll ascend a 20-minute uphill section that brings you into Phakding (2,610m). The village is set along the banks of the Dudh Koshi River and offers several comfortable lodges for an overnight stay.
Your second day starts with a pleasant walk alongside the Dudh Koshi River, surrounded by pine forests and small villages.
First 1.5 hours: The path from Phakding to Monjo is relatively flat and easy-going. You’ll pass through Tok Tok after about 40 minutes, with stunning views of Thamserku (6,608m) to your east. The trail continues through Benkar (2,710m) after 30 minutes, crossing several suspension bridges along the Dudh Koshi River. Eventually, after a 30-minute gradual ascent, you’ll reach Monjo (2,835m), where you enter the Sagarmatha National Park.
Next 45 minutes: After crossing through the park entrance, the trail descends steeply for 15 minutes to the valley floor, where you’ll cross the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge. From there, you’ll begin a steep 2-hour ascent through pine and juniper forests. This uphill climb is the most challenging section of the day, but the breathtaking scenery helps ease the difficulty.
Final 1.5 hours: The trail gradually flattens as you approach Namche Bazaar (3,440m), a vibrant Sherpa town nestled into the mountainside. As you approach Namche, you’ll catch your first glimpse of Mount Everest peeking over the ridge in the distance. The final 15-minute steep climb into Namche leads to the bustling market area, where you’ll spend the night in a lodge.
You’ll take a rest day in Namche to acclimatize to the higher altitude. This day is crucial for adjusting to the lower oxygen levels and preventing altitude sickness.
The rest of the day can be spent exploring Namche Bazaar, visiting the Sherpa Museum, or resting at one of the local bakeries.
Today’s trek offers a mix of flat trails, steep ascents, and incredible mountain views.
First 1.5 hours: The trail out of Namche is relatively flat and easy, offering panoramic views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and Lhotse. After 1.5 hours, you’ll reach the small village of Kyangjuma (3,550m), a perfect place for a short break. You’ll then begin a steep 45-minute descent to Phunki Tenga (3,250m), a small settlement by the river.
Next 2 hours: From Phunki Tenga, you’ll begin a 2-hour steep uphill climb through dense rhododendron and pine forests. This is one of the more challenging parts of the day, but as you climb, you’ll be rewarded with magnificent views of Ama Dablam, Kangtega, and Thamserku. Eventually, you’ll arrive at Tengboche (3,860m), home to the famous Tengboche Monastery.
After visiting the monastery and soaking in the views, you’ll stay overnight in Tengboche.
Trek Distance: 12 km.
Trek Hours: 5-6 hours.
First 30 minutes: The day begins with a gentle descent for about 30 minutes through rhododendron forests to Debuche (3,820m), a small village just below Tengboche.
Next 2 hours: From Debuche, you’ll continue on a 2-hour trek through the forest, cross the Imja Khola via a suspension bridge, and climb gradually to Pangboche (3,985m). The views here open up, and you’ll start to notice the landscape becoming more barren as you ascend.
Final 2.5 hours: After Pangboche, the trail climbs steadily for another 2.5 hours, passing through stone-walled fields and scattered yak pastures. Eventually, you’ll arrive at Dingboche (4,410m), a picturesque village set in a broad valley with stunning views of Ama Dablam to the south.
Overnight stay in Dingboche.
Today is another acclimatization day to help your body adjust to the higher altitude. Dingboche offers a serene environment surrounded by towering peaks, and you have a few options for a short hike.
Alternatively, you can hike up the valley towards Chukhung (4,730m) for an easier walk, providing closer views of Island Peak.
The rest of the day can be spent relaxing in Dingboche or visiting local teahouses
The landscape becomes increasingly rugged as you leave the greenery behind and trek towards the moraine fields of the Khumbu Glacier.
First 1.5 hours: The trail starts with a gentle uphill walk through alpine meadows. After about 1.5 hours, you’ll reach Dughla (4,620m), a small cluster of teahouses set next to the river. Here, you can stop for a tea break and enjoy views of Taboche (6,495m) and Cholatse (6,440m).
Next 1 hour: After Dughla, you’ll begin a steep 1-hour ascent up to the Thukla Pass (4,830m). This section is tough but rewarding, as the trail is dotted with memorials to climbers who lost their lives on Everest. From the top of the pass, you’ll have sweeping views of the surrounding peaks.
Final 1.5 hours: From the pass, the trail levels out as you follow the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. You’ll walk for about 1.5 hours through barren, rocky terrain until you reach Lobuche (4,940m), a small settlement nestled between towering peaks. The night here can be chilly, but the proximity to Everest Base Camp adds a sense of excitement.
Today is one of the most anticipated days of the trek, as you make your way to Everest Base Camp!
First 3 hours: You’ll start early from Lobuche with a 3-hour trek over rocky terrain, walking along the edge of the Khumbu Glacier. The path is mostly flat, but the altitude makes it challenging. After passing Italian Research Station, you’ll eventually reach Gorak Shep (5,164m), a tiny settlement that serves as the last stop before Everest Base Camp.
Next 2.5 hours: After a brief rest at Gorak Shep, you’ll continue on a 2.5-hour trek to Everest Base Camp. The trail is mostly flat, but it can be tricky as you navigate over glacier moraine. You’ll walk alongside the Khumbu Icefall, which offers a glimpse of the challenges that climbers face as they attempt to summit Everest. Finally, you’ll arrive at Everest Base Camp (5,364m), where climbers set up camp during the spring ascent season. The base camp offers close-up views of Nuptse, Khumbutse, and Lingtren, though Everest itself is hidden behind other peaks.
Return to Gorak Shep: After spending time at Everest Base Camp, you’ll retrace your steps back to Gorak Shep for the night, completing a total of 7-8 hours of trekking for the day.
Trek Distance: 16 km.
Trek Hours: 7-8 hours.
Early Morning (2 hours): Today begins with an early morning hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m), which offers the best panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and the surrounding peaks. The hike starts before sunrise to catch the first light hitting the mountains. It’s a steep 2-hour ascent, but the view from the top is unforgettable. From here, you’ll have a 360-degree view of the Everest massif, with Pumori (7,161m) looming directly above.
Next 4 hours: After descending back to Gorak Shep, you’ll have breakfast before starting your 4-hour trek down to Lobuche and further to Dughla. The descent is much easier than the climb, as you lose altitude quickly.
Final 2 hours: After passing Dughla, you’ll descend another 2 hours to reach Pheriche (4,280m), a peaceful village in the lower valley.
Trek Distance: 14 km.
Trek Hours: 6-7 hours.
First 2.5 hours: The trail from Pheriche follows a gentle downhill path along the valley floor, with the Imja Khola river on your side. After 2.5 hours, you’ll reach Pangboche. The descent from here is gradual, but the trail becomes rockier.
Next 2 hours: After a break at Pangboche, you’ll descend for 2 hours to Tengboche, where you can once again visit the famous monastery.
Final 2 hours: The last stretch of the day involves a 2-hour descent through lush forests to the Phunki Tenga and a gradual ascent back to Namche Bazaar. This day offers familiar trails, making the descent to Namche feel relatively easy.
Your final day on the trek retraces the path from Namche to Lukla, but the descent makes the journey feel much quicker.
First 2 hours: The trek starts with a steep descent from Namche Bazaar to the valley floor, passing Jorsalle and crossing several suspension bridges. This section is mostly downhill, but it can be hard on the knees due to the steep terrain.
Next 2 hours: After Jorsalle, you’ll pass through Monjo and exit the Sagarmatha National Park. From here, the trail becomes more gradual as you pass Benkar and Phakding once again.
Final 2.5 hours: After a short break in Phakding, you’ll follow a gradual ascent for about 2.5 hours to Lukla. You’ll arrive in Lukla in the afternoon, giving you time to celebrate the completion of the trek with your team.
Next day you’ll catch an early morning flight back to Kathmandu or Ramechhap, where you’ll reflect on the incredible journey you’ve just completed.
The trek takes 11 days from Lukla to Everest Base Camp and back. It follows a standard itinerary without Kathmandu stays.
The best seasons for the trek are:
Basic tea house lodges with shared rooms and common bathrooms are provided. The facilities are simple, offering a bed, blanket, and meals.
Yes, Wi-Fi and charging are available in most tea houses, but they come with additional costs. The higher you go, the more expensive these services become.
Hot showers are available in most tea houses, but they cost around $3-$5 per shower. Wet wipes and dry shampoo are good alternatives to save money.
You can book the Budget Everest Base Camp Trek online through a trekking agency. It’s recommended to book at least a month in advance to secure flights and permits.
Two permits are needed:
These are included in the trek cost.
The highest point of the trek is Kala Patthar (5,545m / 18,192ft), which offers the best close-up view of Mount Everest. Everest Base Camp itself is at 5,364m (17,598ft).
If altitude sickness occurs, the guide will assess the condition and may advise rest, descent, or evacuation if necessary. Trekking slowly, drinking plenty of water, and acclimatizing properly can help prevent altitude sickness.
Essential packing items include:
Yes, but hiring a guide is recommended for safety. Since the package does not include a porter, solo trekkers must carry their own gear.
Tea houses offer local and international dishes like:
ATMs are available in Lukla and Namche Bazaar, but they may not always work. It’s best to carry enough cash in Nepalese rupees for the trek.
The Budget Everest Base Camp Trek is ideal for those looking to experience Everest on a low-cost plan without compromising on the adventure. It includes all necessary services at an affordable price, making it perfect for budget-conscious travelers.
The Budget Everest Base Camp Trek is ideal for those looking to experience Everest on a low-cost plan without compromising on the adventure. It includes all necessary services at an affordable price, making it perfect for budget-conscious travelers.
No, prior trekking experience is not mandatory. However, regular exercise, cardio training, and short hikes before the trek will help in preparation.
The Budget Everest Base Camp Trek is a moderate to challenging trek. It involves 6-7 hours of walking per day at high altitudes, so good physical fitness is required.
Exclusions:
The package includes:
The cost of the Budget Everest Base Camp Trek varies based on group size. For 2025/2026, prices are as follows:
The Budget Everest Base Camp Trek is an affordable trekking package designed for travelers who want to experience the Everest region without spending too much. It includes essential services like permits, guide, and basic accommodation while excluding luxury add-ons like Kathmandu stays and porters.
Addrew Johnnyhar
14th May, 2025
My recent trekking adventure in Nepal with Holiday Planner Treks and guide Merman Tamang was nothing short of extraordinary. From the very first interaction to the final farewell, everything was organized with care, professionalism, and a personal touch that made the entire journey unforgettable. Merman Tamang, the lead guide and heart of the company, is one of the most experienced and thoughtful individuals I’ve ever met in the trekking world. His knowledge of the Himalayan terrain, weather patterns, altitude safety, and local culture is unmatched. More than that, he’s incredibly kind, patient, and always attentive to the needs of every trekker in the group. The trek itself was flawlessly planned by Holiday Planner Treks. The itinerary was well-paced, allowing time for proper acclimatization and cultural immersion. All logistics—including airport transfers, hotel bookings, permits, transportation, and meals—were handled smoothly, leaving us free to enjoy the beauty of Nepal without any stress. What truly sets this company apart is their local expertise and personal care. Merman and his team treated us not just as clients but as friends. He checked in on our health regularly, kept us motivated on tough climbs, and shared deep insights about the mountains and local life. We visited monasteries, interacted with locals, and stayed in cozy teahouses that offered a real taste of Nepalese hospitality. The support staff, including porters and assistant guides, were equally amazing—hardworking, respectful, and always smiling. Their dedication made the trek more comfortable and enjoyable. Whether you're dreaming of Everest Base Camp, Annapurna, Manaslu, or a custom trekking adventure, I wholeheartedly recommend Holiday Planner Treks and Guide Merman Tamang. They provide top-notch service with heart, safety, and authenticity. This was more than just a trek—it was a life-changing experience. I’m already looking forward to my next trip with them. Thank you, Merman and team, for making Nepal feel like a second home!
Richard Feeney
22nd May, 2025
We just completed the Everest Base Camp Budget Trek with Holiday Planner Treks, and it was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience! Our guide, Patam, was absolutely fantastic—knowledgeable, professional, and incredibly kind. From the moment we arrived, he made us feel safe and supported. He shared local insights, paced the trek perfectly, and checked on our well-being every step of the way. The budget package was very well-organized—comfortable lodges, hearty meals, and breathtaking views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam every day. Even on the tougher days, Patam’s encouragement and positive energy kept us going. The team managed all logistics seamlessly, including our Lukla flights, permits, and accommodations. For anyone looking to do the Everest Base Camp trek without breaking the bank but still wanting excellent service, this is the way to go. Huge thanks to Holiday Planner Treks and especially to Patam for making our dream trek come true!
If this trip is not suitable for you. We can make Tailor Made Trip for you.
