12 Days Everest Base Camp Trek

The Himalayas are a treasure trove of natural landscapes teeming with unparalleled beauty, villages where you’ll find the friendliest people you’re ever likely to meet, and the highest mountains on the planet. Join Alpine Ramble Treks to discover the grandeur of the EBC Hike for yourself. The Khumbu is calling—will you answer?

Comprehensive Trip Overview

The Everest Base Camp trek is truly one of a kind and now you can do it within 12 days, which offers unparalleled adventure and fun. Not only does it allow you to experience the world’s tallest mountain, Mount Everest, in its full glory, but also the opportunity to see some of the most diverse landscapes integrated with Buddhism and Sherpa culture. The scenic views of the mountains against the azure sky make the trip even more memorable. The trekkers are left in awe because of the sheer beauty of the trek from the beginning till the end.

There are a number of things this 12-day trek offers, and it begins with a scenic yet thrilling flight to Lukla, one of the highest airports in the world. You can feel the fresh, cool, and crisp air of the Khumbu once you touch down in Lukla. The village of Lukla welcomes you with its clear, cut-out path that leads you to the Everest Base Camp. Today, however, our destination is a small village called Phakding. The trail to Phakding is peaceful and full of experiences of nature. It is mostly downhill, filled with many Buddhist prayer-inscribed walls, small monasteries, and few suspension bridges, and only about 3-4 hours of hike.

The second day of our hike takes us to one of the most popular towns of eastern Nepal, the place where Sherpas live, Namche Bazaar. Known for being the gateway to Mount Everest, it can be deemed one of the most significant parts of the trail. Some of the major highlights of this day include crossing the Hillary Bridge, officially entering the Sagarmatha National Park, and, most of all, seeing the first-ever glimpse of Mount Everest from Top Danda. And, of course, the most-awaited Namche Bazaar sits at the bottom of the hill that is surrounded by tall and wide snowy peaks.

We will stay at Namche Bazaar for an extra day so that we can help our bodies acclimatize to the altitude. At an elevation of 3,440 meters (11,286 ft), there is always a chance of coming down with acute mountain sickness. So, to prevent this and make your experience the best, we will stay at Namche Bazaar, but we will hike to Hotel Everest View (3960 m | 12,992 ft), where you will be able to enjoy a panoramic view of not only Mount Everest but also other gorgeous mountains. Afterward, we will follow the route to another Sherpa village known as Khumjung Village, where you can see the Sherpa village from an even more authentic lens. There you can also visit the monastery housing the skull of Yeti, which holds religious significance in the community. You can also see children playing in the school built by Sir Edmund Hillary in 1961.

Then, the following day, we continue forward along the trail that is filled with a photocard-worthy view of the mountains and the surrounding landscape. We will be ascending even higher and given our acclimatization the day before, we should be fine. This hike, in particular, is a spiritual one, as we will come across one of the most revered monasteries among the Buddhists all over the globe. It is also the largest monastery of the Khumbu region and the Sherpas celebrate many festivals here. Mani Rimdu Festival is the biggest festival celebrated in Tengboche Monastery, 3,867 meters (12,687 ft).

After staying in Tengboche for the night, we begin our hike after an early breakfast. The path for today’s hike isn’t as steep uphill as the previous days but definitely feels a bit challenging because of the gain in elevation. From Tengboche, we make our way to Dingboche, 4,410 m (14,470 ft), a small village located in the valley surrounded by towering peaks. Ama Dablam is one of the beautiful peaks that will accompany you throughout your journey to Dingboche.

Similar to Namche Bazaar, we will spend an extra day at Dingboche as a part of acclimatization. As a part of the acclimatization process, one of the preferred ways is to hike Nangkartshang Danda 5,083 meters (16,676 feet). It is an exhilarating climb to the top that offers some of the most unparalleled views of the Ama Dablam (6812 m), Makalu (8485 m), Lhotse (8516 m), Kantega (6782 m), and Cho Oyu (6160 m). After the hike, the remainder of the day is free for you to get the much-needed rest.

On the seventh day, we will be advancing towards Lobuche (4,910 m/16,105 ft). And because we had acclimatized the day before, it would be much easier on the body. The trail to Lobuche is more like walking on flat land most of the time rather than a steep cliff, as we began the trek. By this time, you will visibly be able to tell the difference in the landscape around you, as the treeline will have completely disappeared, and the shrubby trees will remain. Then, after a few hours of hiking, we reach Lobuche, and you will get to see Mount Pumori in its full glory.

Then, the next day, we will finally be hiking to the most anticipated place on this entire trek. We will first reach Gorak Shep, where we will enjoy a short break and check into our teahouse before again embarking on a hike to the Everest Base Camp (5,364 m/17,599 ft). Walking along the Khumbu Glacier and all the mountain rocks and ice is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You will get to see the stunning peaks that will leave you breathless, and depending on the season, you might also get to see all the people who are getting ready to summit Mount Everest. After spending some time at the base camp, we will return to Gorak Shep again.

It's the ninth day, and it is the capstone of this trek. We will begin our hike early in the morning and ascend higher to Kala Patthar (5,545 m/18,193 ft). The hike might be a bit tiring but totally worth it as it allows us to see the 360-degree views of Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Taboche, Thamserku, and many other transcendent peaks of the Everest Region.

Then we trek back to Gorak Shep carry our belongings, and trek to the small village of Pheriche sits on the same elevation but the opposite of Dingboche. The following day, we retrace our step back to Namche and finally back to Lukla, where, on the 12th day, we will take a flight back to Kathmandu, thus concluding our Everest Base Camp Trek of 12 days.

Everest Base Camp Trek 12 Days Highlights

• A dramatic yet scenic mountain flight to Lukla that will make your heart race with thrills and excitement.
• A complete immersion in the culture, tradition, and lifestyle of the Sherpa community.
• It is an authentic mountain experience indulging in the natural landscape with clean and fresh air, crossing suspension bridges, and making rounds over mani-inscribed stone walls with fluttering prayer flags during the hike.
• Get the chance to dine in the world’s highest hotel, Hotel Everest View.
• Make rounds around Tengboche Monastery (3,810 m), the largest monastery in the Khumbu region.
• A very close-up view of the monumental mountains, including Mt. Everest (8,848.86 m), Mt. Lhotse (8,516 m), Cho Oyu (8,201 m), Mt. Makalu (8,463 m), and many more snow-covered peaks.
• Enter the protected area of Sagarmatha National Park and get a glimpse of the beautiful species of birds and animals found in the park—a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Witness the Khumbu Glacier (the highest glacier) before your very eyes.
• Hike to Kala Patthar to see the best view this 12-day Everest Base Camp trek has to offer.

What makes the Everest Base Camp of 12 days worth it in 2025/2026?

The trek to the Everest Base Camp is definitely worth it and in 12 days and upon reaching the summit, you will get more than you bargained for—in the best way possible. The cultural, natural, and, of course, mountain aspects of the trek truly are one-of-a-kind experiences. Some of the defining moments of this trek are briefly explained below:

Mount Everest and Other Unparalleled Peaks

It is no secret that the Everest Base Camp Trek offers some of the most alluring and enchanting views that any mountain trek has to offer. Mount Everest, otherwise known as Sagarmatha or Qomolangma in Nepali and Tibetan, is the world’s highest peak, standing at an elevation of 8,848.86 meters is what many people aspire to see at least once in their life. But along with Everest, there are other equally majestic mountains that surround you from all angles. Some of the mighty yet beautiful peaks that you can see during this trek include Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Nuptse, Thamserku, Kongde Ri, Pumori, Khumbutse, Lingtren, and many others.

Sherpa Town of Namche Bazaar

When you talk about mountains, especially Everest, the word sherpa has a lot of weight. It is because of their contribution that the mountain community is what it has become today. The people of the mountains are the backbone of mountaineering and trekking. The town of Namche Bazaar is a hub for all the tourists and Sherpas alike. The town offers scenic views of the mountains as well as the showcasing of the unique Sherpa culture and traditions. Here, you can see the Sherpa communities go about their daily lives. You can also explore around and enjoy authentic Sherpa cuisine such as Thenduk, Thukpa, Sherpa stew, and so on.

Visit the Important Historical Landmarks during the 12 days of your EBC Trek.

There are many historical landmarks during this trek that you must absolutely visit. First and foremost being the Hillary Bridge. Named after the first person to ever successfully summit Mount Everest, Edmund Hillary. The bridge marks the beginning of the wave of mountaineering and trekking in Nepal. The Sherpa culture museum, where you can see how Sherpas have left their mark in the mountaineering community and made their name synonymous with bravery. Khumjung Village is another important place as it houses a monastery with a Yeti skull. It is quite the mystical place filled with divine power and spirituality.

Connect Spiritually to Tengboche Monastery (3,810 meters)

Tibetan Buddhism is a heavily practiced religion among the Sherpa communities. And the monastery holds the utmost significance in their lives. Tengboche Monastery is one of the oldest and largest Buddhist monasteries in the Khumbu region. Otherwise known as Dawa Choling Gompa in the native Sherpa tongue, the monastery sits adjacent to Ama Dablam and also presents a marvelous view of Everest. It certainly is one of the highlighted moments of these 12 days of trekking to the Everest Base Camp.

Hike to Kalapathar and elevation during the 12-day EBC trip itinerary.

Our outstanding Everest base camp 12-day trip itinerary includes a beautiful small mountain, Kalapathar, 5545 meters above sea level. It is one of the most beautiful places to enjoy views of the mighty Himalayas range and the entire Everest region.

The view from the top of Kalapathar Hill is genuinely overwhelming, immersing in the 360-degree panoramic views of the Himalayas, including the whole shape of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Pumori, Khumbuche, and so on.

Additional Information on 12-Day Everest Base Camp Trek 2025/2026

Catching a Flight to Lukla Airport

The 12-day trek to the Everest Base Camp begins with an electrifying flight to Lukla Airport, formally known as Tenzing-Hillary Airport. At an elevation of 2,860 meters (9,383 feet) above sea level, the flight is short but scenic and thrilling. Some facts you need to know before your flight to Lukla are listed below:

• There are no direct flights to Lukla from Kathmandu during peak seasons in spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). It is due to high air traffic at Tribhuvan International Airport.
• During spring and autumn, the flights are diverted to Ramechhap’s Manthali Airport, which is about a 4 hours ride from Kathmandu. You will ride as early as 2 am and reach Ramechhap just in time for your flight.
• During winter and summer, the flight is operated directly from Kathmandu to Lukla.
• The flight time is 30-40 minutes.
• There is always a chance of flight cancellation due to unpredictable weather in the mountains. In this case, you can consult with your guide and take further action suitable to your time and situation.

Is trekking to the Everest Base Camp for 12 days difficult?

While prior trekking experience is not a prerequisite for our EBC Trek package, this is a moderately complex hiking trail with a maximum elevation of more than 5,500 meters. You’ll be walking for six or seven hours each day, and the trail ascends and descends as it winds through countless side valleys and high-altitude mountain passes.

For these reasons, you should be healthy and physically fit before starting this trek. Walking, running, and other forms of cardiovascular exercise are great ways to prepare for the opportunity to cross Mt. Everest from your bucket list.

An expert guide from Alpine Ramble Treks will also be assigned to watch over you, monitor your progress and condition, and shepherd you safely from Luka to Everest Base Camp—and back again.

If the 12-day EBC trek isn’t what you’re looking for, Alpine Ramble Treks has plenty of alternatives here in Khumbu. Consider our Everest Gokyo Lake Trek 10-Day Package or our eight-day Everest Base Camp Hiking Itinerary.

For those of us traveling short on time, Alpine Ramble Treks (ART) also organizes the finest short EBC Trek from Kathmandu, which can be completed in one week.

And if you’re only here on a brief visit, you can still enjoy the splendor of the world’s tallest mountain by booking our Everest Helicopter Tour or Scenic Everest Flight. With convenient departures from Kathmandu, these day trips are a fantastic way to get up close and personal with Mt. Everest when you’re short on time.

What is the distance of the 12 days Everest Base Camp Trek?

The total distance of the round trip of the Everest Base Camp Trek done in 12 days is 130 kilometers or 80 miles. The measuring of the distance begins once you touch down at the Lukla Airport and ends here as well. That means the one-way distance from Lukla to the Everest Base Camp is 65 kilometers or 40 miles.

Altitude and Acclimatization for the 12 days trek to the Everest Base Camp

One must surely expect to reach the altitude they have never reached before with this 12 days trek to the Everest Base Camp. From the lowest elevation of this trek being Phakding (2,610 meters) to the highest elevation being the Kala Patthar View Point (5,644 meters), there is a significant gain. Being that high from sea level can definitely be challenging for those who have yet to experience the mountain environment. It is why our itinerary has acclimatization days to help your body adjust to the high altitude.

Acclimatization is an integral part of trekking and mountaineering. Ascending at a rapid pace can induce altitude sickness. And it is not an experience you want to be having while on a trek. Therefore, slow ascending and maintaining proper diet and hydration can help avoid such problems.

How to prepare for the Everest Base Camp Trek of 12 days this 2025/2026?

Being physically and mentally fit is crucial for this trek to be successful. You do not need to have prior trekking experience to do this trek; however, you will need to prepare both your body and mind. You must be prepared to walk at least 7 hours daily on average and some days even more with a backpack of your belongings on your back (you will have a porter but need to carry your essentials, such as some snacks and water, by yourself).

You need to make sure to work on your stamina and start exercising, focusing on your cardio and strength at least a month prior to the trek. You should also have a good diet and hydration routine before and during the trek. Training for the Everest Base Camp trek is one of the best ways to ensure the success of the Everest Base Camp 12 days trek.

When is the best time or best season to do the 12 days Everest Base Camp Trek?

Different seasons offer different advantages of trekking to the Everest Base Camp. You can actually do this trek at any time of the year but most do prefer spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). And it is mostly because spring and autumn offer moderate temperatures and clear views on the majority of the days. Many prefer the stability these two seasons provide, along with the most alluring views of the mountains. It can get a bit crowded on the trail, though.

Summer (June-August) is also very trekking, but the backside of trekking during the summer is the rain. Since it is the rainy season, you may face problems such as landslides, leeches, and frequent flight cancellations. But with good caution and preparation, you can successfully complete the trek. And moreover, if you love lush greenery all around, this is the perfect time to do the trek.

Winter (December-February) is also another perfect season to go trekking to the Everest Base Camp. If you prepare well enough for the cold, the views you get during this season are unmatched. The mountains appear clearer and if you do this trek in the early winter, there is a chance you won’t have to walk in the snow either. And most of all, the best perk of trekking during summer and winter is that the trail will not be crowded and you can enjoy a peaceful trek to the Everest Base Camp for the entire 12 days.

The Everest Base Camp Trek 12 Days Cost (Price) for 2025 and 2026

The cost of the Everest base camp trek is 12 days, depending on the season in which you plan to do it. If you choose to trek during the peak seasons of spring (March, April, and May) or fall/autumn (September, October, and November), the cost will be as per the list in the table below.

However, if you plan to trek during the low seasons of winter (January and February) or monsoon (June, July, and August), the cost will be slightly lower. To get the low-season rate, please contact our team via email or WhatsApp.

Please note: The trekking times indicated Below are approximate and are best used as general guidelines. During the short Everest Base Camp Trek, you can travel freely at your own pace. We also recommend arriving in Kathmandu at least one day before your scheduled itinerary begins; this will allow you to meet with our trekking team in advance to learn more about your planned activities. Staying in Kathmandu for an extra day or two at the end of the itinerary will also provide you with a more flexible schedule if mountain flights between Kathmandu and Lukla are delayed due to weather.