Short Everest Base Camp trek is popular among the limited time trekkers. It reduces the time during the trek by avoiding the leisure day of acclimatization. Short EBC trekking is identical to EBC trekking, but it takes less time. You will need to be physically fit and mentally prepared for trekking as the Short Everest Base Camp Treks trail crosses high altitudes above 3,000m.
Trekking to the Everest Base Camp begins at Lukla (2.800m) after a scenic flight from Kathmandu, you will reach the airport. Trek starts from Lukla to Phakding.You will often see spectacular mountain scenery such as Numbur Himal and Karyoulung (6 511m), Kongde Shar (6 6093m), Kusum Kangaru (6 367m) and Thamserku (6 608m). The trail is mostly flat. Pangbuche Khola Bridge, which is just one junction of Bhote Koshi River, is the most impressive.
The Namche Bazaar's top and Everest View hotel offer breathtaking views of Mount Everest. Ama Dablam (6,856m), Kangtekga (6,665m), Pek 38/ Shar Tse (7,591m), Lhotse Shar (8,393m), Lhotse ( 8,516m), Lhotse Col (7,925m), South Col (7,925m), Mt. Everest (8,848m), Nuptse (7.861m), Tabuche Peak (6.369m) & Khumbi Yul Lha (5,761m). The trail continues up through the Tenzing Norgay Memorial Stupa before Kenjoma. Then drop through the pine forest until you reach the Dhudha Koshi Bridge at Phunke Tenga. Finally, climb to the Tengboche Monastery, with beautiful Mountain View. Dibuche is another option to Tynagbuche. You will again cross the bridge at Imja Khola, before heading to Pangbuche Village.
Near Thukla Pass, where the Khumbu Glacier starts with, there are many monuments that honor those who were killed during the expedition. From Lobuche to Gorekshep, you can visit the Italian Research Center (Pyramid) which is the main attraction of short Day Everest Base Camp Trek.
Mt Everest Base Camp is located at 5,360m. Here you can see the Khumbu Icefall and Khumbu Glacier as well as high Himalayan scenery. Many expedition groups can view the spring season. EBC seems like mini Thamel during spring. Kalapattar, which means "Black Rock" in Nepali, is the most popular viewpoint to see Mt. Everest at an elevation of 5,643 meters above sea level.
Scenic and adventurous flight to Lukla, one of the world's most thrilling mountain airports
Experience the classic Everest Base Camp route in a shorter time frame
Walk through Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in alpine flora and fauna
Visit Namche Bazaar, the bustling Sherpa capital, filled with markets, bakeries, and Himalayan views
Acclimatization hike to Everest View Hotel for panoramic views of Mt. Everest and Ama Dablam
Explore Tengboche Monastery, the largest and most spiritual monastery in the Khumbu region
Trek through picturesque Sherpa villages such as Phakding, Tengboche, Dingboche, and Lobuche
Enjoy local hospitality in traditional teahouses with warm meals and cozy settings
Breathtaking sunrise hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m) for the best close-up view of Mount Everest
Reach Everest Base Camp (5,364m), the legendary starting point for Everest expeditions
Witness the dramatic landscapes of the Khumbu Glacier and Khumbu Icefall
Encounter traditional Buddhist culture, colorful prayer flags, and ancient mani stones
Ideal for trekkers with limited time who still want to experience Everest Base Camp
Expert guidance from licensed, English-speaking trekking guides and strong porters
Optional helicopter return upgrade available for faster exit and aerial views of the Himalayas
Nepal experiences four main seasons: spring, summer (monsoon), autumn, and winter. Additionally, some experts recognize six distinct seasonal variations due to Nepal’s diverse climate zones, but the four-season classification is most common for trekking purposes.
The most popular trekking seasons are spring and autumn, with autumn (September to November) being the prime time for visitors from around the world. During autumn, the weather is generally stable and dry, offering crystal-clear mountain views, comfortable temperatures, and vibrant cultural festivals. This season presents ideal trekking conditions with pleasant days and cool nights, making it perfect for exploring the Himalayas.
Spring (March to May) is another favored season for trekking. As the winter snow begins to melt, the rhododendron forests burst into bloom, painting the mountainsides with vibrant reds, pinks, and purples. The temperatures gradually warm, and the air is fresh and invigorating, offering spectacular views of the snow-capped peaks and lush valleys.
The monsoon season (June to August) brings heavy rainfall, especially in the lower and middle hills of Nepal. Although this period sees fewer trekkers due to slippery trails and limited visibility, the landscape becomes lush and green, rivers swell, and waterfalls are at their fullest. For those who enjoy solitude and vibrant natural scenery, the monsoon offers a different trekking experience. However, trekking at higher elevations like the Everest region can still be possible in the early monsoon, as the rain is less intense and the air is crisp.
Winter (December to February) is colder, particularly at higher elevations where temperatures can drop below freezing. While trekking during winter offers peaceful trails and clear skies, some high passes and routes might be closed due to snow. Trekkers who prefer fewer crowds and don’t mind the cold often choose winter for its serene beauty and spectacular views of snow-blanketed peaks.
In summary, autumn and spring remain the best seasons to trek in Nepal due to favorable weather, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant local cultures. Whether you seek blooming rhododendrons in spring or clear Himalayan vistas in autumn, Nepal’s trekking trails provide unforgettable experiences year-round.
Accommodation
During the 12 Days Everest Base Camp Trek, accommodation is primarily in teahouses and guesthouses along the trekking route. These lodges offer basic yet comfortable facilities designed to meet the needs of trekkers in remote mountain regions.
Teahouses: These are family-run lodges that provide simple rooms with twin beds, blankets, and sometimes mattresses. Rooms are usually shared or private depending on availability and the group size. Hot showers and Western-style toilets are available at many teahouses, though often for an additional fee.
Facilities: Most teahouses provide warm, cozy dining areas and common rooms with wood or kerosene heaters, especially at higher altitudes, where temperatures drop significantly at night. Electricity is often available but may be limited and powered by solar panels or generators, so charging devices might only be possible during certain hours.
Comfort Level: Accommodation is modest but clean and safe. The focus is on simplicity and comfort rather than luxury, with most lodges providing beds, blankets, and communal spaces to relax and socialize with other trekkers.
Altitude Consideration: Lodging at high elevations such as Dingboche, Lobuche, and Gorak Shep becomes more basic due to the remoteness and challenging supply routes. Some places might have dormitory-style rooms or limited hot water availability.
Food
The food on the Everest Base Camp Trek offers a surprising variety of options catering to different tastes and dietary requirements, ranging from traditional Nepali cuisine to Western-style meals.
Typical Meals: Breakfast usually includes items like porridge, eggs, toast, pancakes, or traditional Nepali dishes such as dal bhat (lentil soup with rice). Lunch and dinner menus commonly feature soups, noodles, rice dishes, potatoes, and vegetable curries.
Local Specialties: You will have opportunities to try Sherpa specialties such as momo (dumplings filled with vegetables, chicken, or yak meat), thukpa (Tibetan-style noodle soup), and yak butter tea.
Western Food: Many teahouses serve pizza, pasta, burgers, and fried rice to cater to international trekkers. Hot drinks like tea, coffee, and hot chocolate are widely available and essential to stay warm at high altitudes.
Nutrition and Hydration: Staying hydrated is critical on the trek, so bottled water, boiled water, or water purified with tablets is recommended. It’s advised to avoid tap water and ice to prevent altitude-related illnesses.
Food Costs: While meals are affordable, prices increase with altitude due
| Day | Trek Route | Elevation (m) | Elevation (ft) | Distance (km) | Duration (hours) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | Arrival in Kathmandu International | - | - | - | - |
| 02 | Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla, Trek to Phakding | 2610 | 8352 | 8 | 3-4 |
| 03 | Phakding to Namche Bazaar | 3340 | 11,008 | 10 | 5-6 |
| 04 | Namche Bazaar to Tengboche | 3860 | 12,352 | 9 | 5-6 |
| 05 | Tengboche to Dingboche | 4410 | 14,100 | 12 | 5-6 |
| 06 | Acclimatization day in Dingboche | 4410 | 14,100 | - | - |
| 07 | Dingboche to Lobuche | 4910 | 15,712 | 10 | 5-6 |
| 08 | Lobuche to Gorakshep, and EBC | 5140 / 5364 | 16,448 / 17,165 | 15 | 7-8 |
| 09 | Day Hike to Kalapathar, Trek back to Pheriche | 5550 / 4240 | 17,776 / 13,568 | 14 | 7-8 |
| 10 | Pheriche to Namche Bazaar | 3440 | 11,008 | 13 | 6-7 |
| 11 | Namche Bazaar to Lukla | 2840 | 9,088 | 18 | 6-7 |
| 12 | Fly back from Lukla to Kathmandu | 1300 | 4,160 | - | - |
| 13 | Departure for home | - | - | - | - |
Please note that the table provides an overview of the daily itinerary, including the trek route, elevation (in meters and feet), approximate distance (in kilometers), and approximate duration (in hours) of each day's trek. The specific distance and duration information for each day is based on average trekking times and can vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and individual trekking pace. Always follow the guidance of your trekking agency or guide for the most accurate and updated information regarding the Short Everest Base Camp Trek.Here, We have some other Trekking packages are available in Everest Region as Everest Base Camp Trek ,Everest Three High Passes Trek, Short Everest Base Camp Trekking , 9 Days EBC Helicopter Return Trek. Gokyo Lake Trek Enjoy your Trip.
The 12 Days Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek is one of the most iconic trekking routes in the world, but it is also a physically and mentally demanding journey. Trekkers should be aware of the various difficulties they may encounter during the trek to prepare accordingly and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Altitude and Acclimatization Challenges
One of the biggest difficulties of the Everest Base Camp trek is the rapid gain in altitude. The trek starts at Lukla (2,860m) and ascends to Everest Base Camp at 5,364 meters, with an optional hike to Kala Patthar at 5,545 meters. This high-altitude environment means that oxygen levels decrease significantly, which can cause symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) such as headaches, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, and shortness of breath. Proper acclimatization days are essential to allow the body to adjust gradually. Ignoring acclimatization can lead to severe altitude sickness, which can be life-threatening without prompt descent or medical treatment.
Physical Fitness Requirements
Though the trek does not require technical climbing skills, it demands good physical fitness. Trekkers walk for 5-8 hours a day on uneven, rocky, and sometimes slippery trails. The terrain includes steep ascents and descents, rocky paths, river crossings, and suspension bridges. Strong cardiovascular health, leg strength, and stamina are essential to cope with the daily distances and elevation gains. Lack of fitness can lead to exhaustion and increase the risk of injury.
Weather and Temperature Extremes
Weather conditions on the Everest Base Camp trek can be unpredictable and extreme. During the day, temperatures in lower altitudes may be mild, but as you ascend higher, temperatures drop sharply, especially at night where they can plummet below freezing, sometimes reaching -20°C or lower near the base camp. Sudden weather changes, including snowstorms and strong winds, can make trekking difficult and sometimes dangerous. Proper clothing, including thermal layers and windproof jackets, is crucial for protection against cold and wet conditions.
Trail Conditions and Terrain
The trekking path varies between well-maintained stone stairways and narrow dirt trails that can be steep, loose, or slippery, especially after rain or snowfall. During the monsoon season, trails can become muddy and challenging to navigate. In some sections, the trail follows steep drop-offs with minimal railings, which may be intimidating for those with a fear of heights. Additionally, crossing the many suspension bridges requires balance and confidence.
Limited Facilities and Comfort
Accommodation on the trek is mostly in basic teahouses offering modest amenities. Hot showers, charging facilities, and Wi-Fi are limited and usually come at an additional cost. The availability of food and supplies decreases as you move higher, leading to higher prices. This limited access to comforts can be challenging for trekkers accustomed to luxury or urban conveniences.
Mental and Emotional Challenges
The trek requires mental endurance to cope with long walking days, isolation from urban life, and sometimes tough environmental conditions. Fatigue, altitude stress, and physical discomfort can affect morale. Patience and a positive mindset are necessary to overcome moments of frustration or discouragement. Additionally, the cultural differences and language barriers might be challenging for some, but they also offer an enriching experience.
Risk of Injury and Illness
Common trekking injuries include ankle sprains, blisters, and muscle strains. The risk increases due to uneven terrain, fatigue, and changing weather. Additionally, gastrointestinal illnesses caused by contaminated food or water are common among trekkers and can cause dehydration. Taking precautions such as wearing good trekking boots, carrying a well-stocked first aid kit, and drinking only purified water helps minimize these risks.
We Welcome to the great country of the Himalayan Kingdom: Nepal. Upon your arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will welcome you and assists in transferring you to your hotel in Kathmandu. After you spend a few hours relaxing and a getting refreshed, you will be invited to a welcome dinner in a typical Nepalese restaurant in the heart of Kathmandu city, where a briefing about your trip will take place. You then will spend the night in your prearranged hotel.
Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla. This is a really early 45-minute scenic flight to Lukla in the morning. Being the gateway to the great Mount Everest Base Camp, Lukla is home to the only airport in the region and is known for being one of the most “challenging” airports in the world. Once you arrived in Lukla you are given breakfast before starting your first day of trekking. Today consists of a short day trek of approximately three hours and pass the small villages of Chheplung, Thadokoshi, Ghat before arriving at Phakding where you stay the night.
Onwards and upwards to Namchebazar. Namche Bazaar is the biggest town on this trip and famed as the Sherpa Hub in the region. After breakfast, you’ll begin your treks upwards. This is one of the hardest days of the trek, however, you are blessed with stunning mountain views of Thamserku and Kusumkangaru, Dodhkoshi river and get your first glimpse of the great Everest peak. Lunch will be had at Jorsalle before you cross the double suspension bridge dubbed as “Hilary bridge”. Once you reach Namche Bazaar, you will spend the evening resting and walking around the lively town.
Trek to Tengboche. Tengboche is a nice place to spend the night. The days trail very nice and gentle. However, the day begins with a very hard trek to the top of Namche Bazaar village, before you are rewarded with a stunningly beautiful and relatively flat walk to Kyanjuma. Along the way, you get the opportunity to see the top of Everest, Nupche, Lhotse and several other famed peaks around. After Kyanjuma, the trail then drops down to the Dodhkoshi and after crossing the bridge you get to Fungi Thanga. The trail to get to Tengboche a bit harder and takes about two and half hours. Once you arrive in Tengboche you can visit the biggest monastery in the region, talks with the Monks and stay overnight in the cosy hamlet.
Trek to Dingboche. Today you start to feel the effects of the gaining altitude and lowing oxygen levels, so you may start to find the walk a bit harder, even on the flats. The trail is mainly downhill to Debuche, nice and gentle walk through the rhododendron forest until to the bridge of Imja Khola. After the bridge the climb begins, passing superb Mani stones carved with the Tibetan Buddhist chant Mani Padme Hum. Once you reach Pangboche at 3860m, the trail then steepens to Dingboche where you can enjoy the stunning views of Amadablam.
Trek to Lobuche. Today you should walk slow and steady. At the beginning, again the climb is very nice and easy until you reach Dhukla very. The trail after Dhukla goes directly up the terminal moraine of the Khumbu Glacier for about one hour, then left into a memorial area known as Chhukpilhara, before reaching Lobuche at 4930m. This is very hard and you can really begin to feel the lowering levels of oxygen in the air. The night is very, very cold here, so you should prepare the nights with warm jackets and wearing a hat is essential.
Trek to Gorakshep. The trail continues to Gorak Shep at 5160m. It takes approximately three hours of gradual climbing. Once you arrive at Gorakshep, you should prepare yourself for Everest Base Camp. The trail is mainly rocks, narrow pathways and conditions can become windy and snowy (conditions normally sit around -15). Today will fulfil your dream. Here you realise that all the hard work was worth it, and you’re once in a lifetime dream to reach Everest Base Camp is about to come true. Once you arrive, we spent around 15-30minute here where you can take photographswith the group and your friends, before walking back down back the same way to Gorakhshep to spend the night.
Today’s hike consists of a very tough climb to Kalapathar(Black Rock) at 5545m early in the morning, before descending down to Pheriche. Kalapathar is a small peak that offers the best view of Everest without climbing it. The view of Everest is pretty close to the Kalapathar and is a very memorable experience. Once you have completed this giant feit, you decent back down to Gorekhshep have breakfast begin the climb down to Pheriche rest.
Trek to Namchebazaar. If you felt sick at all, today you will begin to feel a lot better as you descend to a level of much high oxygen. You have to back the same way passing through the Pangboche, Tengboche, Fungethanga, Lausasa and Kyanjuma. You may see some wild animals and birds if you are lucky, including Himalayan Thar, Blue Ship and Musk Deer. Here you can celebrate as reality begins to sink in. Overnight stay at Namche bazaar with a lovely warm shower.
Trek back to Lukla. Today is your last day of trekking. This route is stunning and mostly downhill – passing many country sites and villages including Jorsalle, Monju, Banker, Phakding, Ghat and more. You now have one last night inthe mountains, so make it worthwhile.
Fly back from Lukla to Kathmandu. Most of the time you will get the morning flight so you should be prepared to go to the airport early. Once aboard you get another very nice 45-minute flight to Kathmandu. Our guide, still with you, will drop you to the hotel in Kathmandu. Our manager will meet you in the evening then take you for the farewell dinner.
Departure for home. Today our Departure for home. Today our driver will drop you to the International Airport for the final departure. I wish you have a nice and safe journey back home.driver will drop you at the International Airport for the final departure if you wish.
The trek is moderately challenging. While it doesn’t require technical climbing, you’ll walk 5–8 hours daily over rugged terrain and at high altitudes. Prior hiking experience, good physical fitness, and mental stamina are important.
The highest point is Kala Patthar at 5,545 meters (18,192 ft), which offers stunning panoramic views of Mt. Everest, Nuptse, and surrounding peaks. Everest Base Camp itself sits at 5,364 meters (17,598 ft).
The best trekking seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) when the weather is clear, temperatures are moderate, and views are most spectacular. Winter is colder but offers solitude and clear skies for experienced trekkers.
You don’t need to be an athlete, but you should be in good physical condition. Cardiovascular endurance and leg strength are essential. Regular hiking or gym workouts, including aerobic and leg exercises, 1–2 months before the trek are highly recommended
Yes, altitude sickness is a serious risk above 3,000 meters. Our itinerary includes acclimatization days and gradual elevation gain to reduce the risk. Symptoms include headache, nausea, and fatigue. Our guides are trained in managing altitude sickness.
You will stay in teahouses or mountain lodges, which offer basic yet comfortable twin-sharing rooms with blankets. Some have attached toilets, while others have shared bathrooms. Facilities get more basic as altitude increases.
Teahouses serve a variety of meals: Nepali (Dal Bhat), Tibetan, Indian, and Western dishes like pasta, noodles, pancakes, soups, and rice. Vegetarian options are widely available, and we recommend avoiding meat above Namche Bazaar due to freshness concerns.
Yes, but charging facilities are limited and often come with a small fee per hour or per device. It’s a good idea to bring a power bank or solar charger.
Wi-Fi is available at most teahouses (for a fee) under the name Everest Link. Mobile signal (mainly Ncell and NTC) works in lower areas like Lukla and Namche but is limited or unavailable at higher altitudes
Yes, Holiday Planner Treks will arrange all necessary permits, including the Sagarmatha National Park Permit and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entry Permit
You’ll fly from Kathmandu (or Ramechhap during high season) to Lukla, a scenic 30-minute flight. Our team handles all flight bookings and airport transfers.
Weather-related delays are common. We recommend keeping 1–2 buffer days in your travel schedule. In emergencies, we can arrange helicopter flights (at additional cost) if flights are cancelled for multiple days.
There’s no strict age limit, but we recommend it for those aged 12 to 70 in good health. Children and seniors should be physically prepared and trek with experienced guides.
Yes. Holiday Planner Treks provides free luggage storage in Kathmandu. You can leave non-essential items at our hotel before flying to Lukla
Our package includes airport transfers, domestic flights, guide and porter services, permits, all meals during the trek, accommodation in teahouses, and a farewell dinner in Kathmandu. Hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara and international airfare are not included unless customized.
Trekking gear is essential equipment and clothing required for safe and comfortable trekking in various terrains and weather conditions. Having the right trekking gear can significantly enhance your trekking experience and ensure your safety on the trails. Here's a list of basic trekking gear that you should consider carrying for your trekking adventure:
Backpack: A durable and comfortable backpack with proper shoulder straps and waist belt to carry all your gear during the trek.
Trekking Boots: Sturdy and waterproof trekking boots with good ankle support to protect your feet and provide stability on uneven terrains.
Moisture-Wicking Socks: High-quality moisture-wicking socks to keep your feet dry and prevent blisters.
Trekking Pants: Lightweight and quick-drying pants that are comfortable for trekking. Convertible pants that can be converted into shorts are also useful.
Trekking Shirts: Moisture-wicking and breathable shirts that provide protection from the sun.
Insulating Layers: Depending on the trek's altitude and weather, carry insulating layers such as a fleece jacket or down jacket.
Rain Jacket: A waterproof and breathable rain jacket to protect you from rain and wind.
Hat and Gloves: A wide-brimmed hat to shield you from the sun and cold-weather gloves for higher altitudes.
Trekking Poles: Lightweight and adjustable trekking poles to provide stability and reduce strain on your knees during descents.
Headlamp/Flashlight: A reliable headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries for night trekking or power outages in lodges.
Sleeping Bag: A high-quality and warm sleeping bag suitable for the expected temperatures during the trek.
Trekking Towel: A compact and quick-drying towel for personal hygiene during the trek.
Water Bottles/Hydration System: Carry reusable water bottles or a hydration system to stay hydrated during the trek.
Sunscreen and Lip Balm: High SPF sunscreen and lip balm with UV protection to safeguard your skin from the sun's rays.
First Aid Kit: A basic first aid kit with essentials like adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and blister treatment.
Personal Toiletries: Carry biodegradable soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, and other personal hygiene items.
Camera and Binoculars: Optional but great for capturing memories and observing wildlife during the trek.
Trekking Map/GPS: A detailed trekking map or GPS device to help you navigate the trails.
Reusable Trash Bag: To minimize your environmental impact, carry a reusable trash bag to pack out any waste.
Remember to pack light and choose high-quality gear that suits the specific trekking conditions. The type of gear required may vary based on the trek's difficulty, altitude, and climate. Before embarking on your trek, consult with your trekking agency or guide for a comprehensive packing list tailored to your specific trekking destination.
If this trip is not suitable for you. We can make Tailor Made Trip for you.
