Everest Base Camp Short Trek 10 days

Useful Info

Cost & Budget Planning

Quick Budget Overview

Price Note: All costs updated January 2025/26. Prices are subject to seasonal variation and group size. Confirm current rates before booking.

Total Realistic Budget

Average Total for Most Trekkers: approx. $3,200-3,800 USD

Money-Saving Tips

• Trek during shoulder seasons (September, November, March, May) for 10-15% lower lodge prices
• Book as a group (4+ people) for per-person discounts
• Use water purification tablets instead of buying bottled water (saves $60-80)
• Limit hot showers and device charging
• Rent gear in Kathmandu instead of buying new
• Bring your own snacks from Kathmandu supermarkets

Never Compromise On: Travel insurance, experienced licensed guides, proper trekking gear, acclimatization schedule, ethical porter treatment

Trek Difficulty & Fitness Requirements

Physical Demands

The Everest Base Camp short trek is classified as moderate difficulty, accessible to reasonably fit individuals without technical climbing skills.

Challenging Aspects:

• High altitude (up to 5,545m with 50% of sea-level oxygen)
• Long trekking days (5-8 hours of walking)
• Steep ascents (some sections gain 600 m+ in 2-3 hours)
• Basic accommodation affecting sleep quality
• Cumulative fatigue from consecutive high-altitude days

Manageable Aspects:

• No technical climbing skills required
• Established walking paths throughout
• Teahouse support with meals and beds
• Porters carry main luggage
• Gradual ascent following acclimatization principles
• Professional Sherpa guides managing pace and health

Training Program (1-3 Weeks) – If Possible

Proper preparation dramatically increases success rates. Begin training 6-8 weeks before departure:

Cardiovascular Endurance (Priority #1)

Progressive Weekly Schedule:

• Weeks 1-2: 2-3 hour hikes on moderate terrain, 2-3 times/week

Alternative Cardio (if hiking is unavailable):

• Running, cycling, or swimming: 45-60 min, 4-5 times/week
• Stair climbing with weighted backpack (5-8kg): 30-45 min, 2-3 times/week

Strength Training (2-3 times/week)

• Legs: Squats, lunges, step-ups (15-20 reps, 3 sets)
• Core: Planks, mountain climbers (30-60 seconds, 3 sets)
• Back/Shoulders: Rows, shoulder presses for backpack carrying

Final Week: Reduce training intensity (taper period) to allow body recovery while maintaining light cardio and stretching.

Age Considerations

• Minimum Age: 10 years (with parental supervision and guide approval)
• Average Age: Most trekkers are 25-55 years old
• Seniors (60+): Fit individuals in their 60s-70s successfully complete this trek regularly. Recommendations: medical clearance (especially cardiovascular), consider 12-14 day itinerary for extra acclimatization, train rigorously for 5-8 weeks

Previous Experience Required?

No prior high-altitude trekking experience is mandatory. What matters most:

• Good cardiovascular fitness and leg strength
• Mental preparation and positive attitude
• Realistic expectations about basic mountain conditions
• No serious pre-existing medical conditions

Your guide provides comprehensive instruction on altitude management, pacing, and mountain safety throughout the journey.

Altitude & Acclimatization Strategy

Elevation Profile

The 10-day itinerary carefully manages altitude gain following the “climb high, sleep low” principle:

Key Features:

• Gradual altitude gain (270-740m per night)
• No overnight gain exceeds 800m (follows WHO recommendations)
• Day 7: Climb to 5,545m but sleep at 5,180m, then descend to 4,120m
• Significant descent after reaching maximum altitude aids recovery

Altitude Sickness Prevention

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) occurs when ascending too quickly for your body to adapt to decreased oxygen levels.

Essential Prevention Strategies:

1. Hydration: Drink 3-4 liters daily; urine should be clear to pale yellow
2. Slow Pace: Walk “pole pole” (Swahili for “slowly slowly”) – commonly used phrase in the Himalayas.
3. Carbohydrate-Rich Diet: Eat frequent meals; dal bhat is ideal, as carbs require less oxygen to metabolize
4. Proper Sleep: Sleep with head elevated; avoid sleeping pills (they suppress breathing)
5. Listen to Your Body: Never hide symptoms from your guide
6. Diamox (Acetazolamide): Optional altitude medication – consult your doctor before the trek (typical dose: 125mg twice daily starting 1-2 days before ascent)

According to Centres for Disease Control and prevention, these are the tips for avoiding Altitude sickness.

Recognizing Symptoms

Mild AMS (Common, Manageable):

• Headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, difficulty sleeping, shortness of breath during exertion
• Treatment: Rest at current altitude 24 hours, hydrate, take pain relievers (ibuprofen, not aspirin)

Severe AMS (Medical Emergency):

• Severe headache unrelieved by medication, vomiting, confusion, loss of coordination
• HAPE (High Altitude Pulmonary Edema): Fluid in lungs, coughing, chest tightness, breathlessness at rest, pink/frothy sputum
• HACE (High Altitude Cerebral Edema): Fluid in the brain, severe confusion, inability to walk straight line, loss of consciousness

Critical Rule: If severe symptoms appear, immediate descent is the only effective treatment. Even 300-500m descent can save lives. Never continue ascending with worsening symptoms.

Daily Health Monitoring

Your guide monitors health using:

• Pulse Oximeter: Measures blood oxygen saturation (SpO2)
  • Normal at altitude: 85-95%
  • Concerning: Below 80%
  • Action required: Below 75%
• Lake Louise AMS Score: Symptom questionnaire tracking improvement/worsening
• Physical Observation: Walking coordination, mental clarity, breathing rate, appetite

According to our operational records (2022-2025), this monitoring system contributes to the 95%+ success rate among properly prepared trekkers.

Best Time to Trek

Autumn (September-November) – PEAK SEASON

Weather: Crystal-clear skies, stable conditions, minimal precipitation
Temperatures: Daytime 12-20°C (lower elevations), 5-10°C (high altitude); Nighttime -5°C to -15°C

Advantages:

• Unobstructed mountain views with exceptional clarity
• Less than 5% chance of precipitation
• Comfortable daytime temperatures
• Post-monsoon air clarity
• Cultural festivals (Dasain in September-October, Tihar in October-November)
• All teahouses and services fully operational

Challenges:

• Highest crowds (expect 200-300 trekkers daily from Lukla in October)
• Accommodation prices increase 20-30%
• Lukla flights may operate from Manthali due to congestion
• Lodge availability limited without advance booking

Best For: First-time trekkers, photographers, those wanting guaranteed views
Booking Window: Reserve 2-3 months in advance for October; 1-2 months for September/November

Spring (March-May) – SECOND BEST

Weather: Clear mornings, afternoon clouds (especially May), warming temperatures
Temperatures: Daytime 12-20°C (lower), 5-12°C (high altitude); Nighttime -5°C to -10°C

Advantages:

• Rhododendron forests in spectacular bloom (March-April)
• Coincides with Everest climbing season (see expedition camps at Base Camp)
• Warmer than autumn
• Best morning mountain views (before noon)
• Longer daylight hours
• 20-30% fewer trekkers than October

Challenges:

• Afternoon clouds reduce visibility after 1-2 PM
• Brief showers possible at lower elevations (especially May)
• Dusty trails from dry conditions
• Pollen may trigger allergies

Best For: Nature photographers, those wanting to see climbing expeditions, warmer weather preference
Booking Window: Reserve 1-2 months in advance for April; 3-4 weeks for March/May

Winter (December-February) – OFF-SEASON

Weather: Extremely cold, crystal-clear skies (best visibility of the year)
Temperatures: Daytime 8-15°C (lower), 0-5°C (high); Nighttime -10°C to -25°C (Gorak Shep can reach -30°C)

Advantages:

• Ultimate solitude (may encounter only 10-20 trekkers daily)
• Lowest prices (15-20% discounts)
• Guaranteed lodge availability
• Pristine snow-covered landscapes
• Unmatched air clarity

Challenges:

• Extreme cold with frostbite risk
• Snowstorms can block trails above Namche
• Many lodges closed above 4,000m
• Shorter daylight (5-6 hours less than summer)
• Lukla flight cancellations due to snow

Best For: Experienced cold-weather trekkers, solitude seekers
Essential Gear: -20°C sleeping bag, expedition-grade down jacket, insulated boots
Important: Requires 3-4 extra buffer days for weather contingencies

Monsoon (June-August) – NOT RECOMMENDED

Weather: Heavy afternoon rainfall, cloudy/humid conditions
Temperatures: Warm (20-25°C daytime), 5-15°C nighttime

Advantages:

• Rock-bottom prices (15-20% discounts)
• Empty trails
• Lush green landscapes

Challenges:

• Mountains obscured by clouds 70-80% of time
• Expect 3-5 hours of rain almost daily
• Leeches active below 3,000m
• Lukla flights are cancellations 40-60% of the time
• Landslide risk on trails
• Limited lodge services

Reality Check: According to Nepal Tourism Board data, trekkers during monsoon season have a 70-80% probability of not seeing Everest clearly due to persistent cloud cover.

Recommendation: October for guaranteed success, April for nature lovers, and November for a balance of good weather and fewer crowds.

Essential Recommended Packing List

Footwear

• Waterproof trekking boots with ankle support (broken in 20-30 hours before trek) – MOST IMPORTANT ITEM
• Lightweight camp shoes (Crocs, sandals, or sneakers)
• 4-5 pairs moisture-wicking trekking socks (wool or synthetic)

Clothing Layers

Base Layer (moisture-wicking):

• 2-3 synthetic or merino wool long-sleeve shirts
• 2 sets thermal underwear (top and bottom)

Mid Layer (insulation):

• 1-2 fleece jackets or pullovers
• 1 insulated synthetic jacket

Outer Layer (weather protection):

• 1 waterproof, breathable rain jacket (quality matters)
• 1 waterproof rain pants
• 1 warm down jacket (-15°C rated minimum) can be rent in Kathmandu

Lower Body:

• 2-3 pairs trekking pants
• 1 pair thermal leggings

Accessories:

• Warm beanie hat
• Sun hat or baseball cap
• Buff or neck gaiter
• Warm gloves (wool or synthetic)
• Down mittens for high altitude can be rented.

Gear & Equipment

• Daypack (25-35L) with rain cover
• Duffel bag for porter (max 10kg per person) can be rented.
• Sleeping bag (-10°C to -15°C) can be rented.
• Trekking poles (adjustable) can be rented.
• Headlamp with extra batteries
• Sunglasses (UV400, Category 3-4 lenses)
• Two 1-liter water bottles (wide-mouth Nalgene ideal)

Toiletries & Health

• Sunscreen SPF 50+ and lip balm with SPF
• Biodegradable soap and hand sanitizer
• Toilet paper and wet wipes
• Personal prescription medications
• Ibuprofen for headaches
• Diamox (if prescribed by doctor)
• Anti-diarrheal medication

Blister treatment (Compeed/moleskin)

• Electrolyte powder

Electronics & Documents

• Phone/camera + chargers
• Power bank (20,000+ mAh recommended)
• Universal adapter (Nepal: Type C, D, M plugs)
• Passport + 4 photocopies
• Travel insurance policy details
• 4 passport photos (for permits)
• Cash (USD and Nepali Rupees)

Optional List

• Book or Kindle for evenings
• Journal and pen
• Playing cards
• Snacks from home (energy bars, nuts)
• Portable solar charger
• Sleeping bag liner
• Gaiters (winter only)
• Earplugs for snoring roommates
• Small quick-dry towel

Gear Rental in Kathmandu

Available with us (~$20-25 total for entire trek):

• Down jacket (-20°C rated)
• Sleeping bag (-15°C rated)
• Trekking poles
• Duffel bag – provided by us for free of cost
• Down mittens

Rental Process: Pay the cost and have a hassel free trek.

Never Rent: Boots (fit is critical and breaking-in required), base layers, underwear/socks

Accommodation & Meals

Teahouse Lodges by Elevation

Lower Elevations (2,700-3,440m)

• Twin-sharing rooms with foam mattresses and pillows
• Hot showers available ($3-5 per shower)
• Charging stations ($2-3 per device)
• WiFi available, especially in Namche (payable)
• Western and squat toilet options

Mid Elevations (3,860-4,350m)

• Basic twin-sharing rooms, shared bathrooms only
• Hot showers still available ($4-5)
• Limited electricity (2-4 hours/evening)
• Unreliable WiFi (payable when working)
• Bathrooms very cold at night

High Elevations (4,910-5,180m)

• Very basic accommodation
• Extremely cold rooms (-10°C to -20°C at night)
• NO hot showers (buckets of hot water for washing: $2-3)
• Minimal electricity (1-2 hours/evening), expensive charging ($5-10)
• No reliable WiFi
• Sleep fully clothed in sleeping bag with hat and gloves

Food Options

Breakfast: Tibetan bread, porridge, eggs, pancakes, hash browns, toast, muesli
Lunch/Dinner: Dal bhat (unlimited refills – HIGHLY RECOMMENDED), noodle soups, fried rice/noodles, pasta, pizza, momos, garlic soup (helps with altitude), Sherpa stew
Beverages: Tea/coffee (included with meals), soft drinks ($2-8 depending on altitude)

The Dal Bhat Strategy

Traditional Nepali meal consisting of steamed rice, lentil soup, vegetable curry, and pickle.

Why It’s Best:

• Unlimited refills (“Dal bhat power, 24 hour!”)
• Best value: $5-8 at high altitude vs. $12-15 for other meals
• Nutritionally complete with balanced carbs, protein, vitamins
• Always freshly made daily
• Easy to digest at altitude

Menu Prices by Altitude (approx.) 

Why Prices Increase: No roads exist above Lukla; all supplies are porter/yak-carried. Higher altitude = longer carrying distance = higher costs.

Water Strategy

Bottled Water: Expensive ($5-6/liter at Gorak Shep) and creates environmental waste
Boiled Water: Available at lodges ($1-5/liter), safe and eco-friendly
Water Purification (BEST OPTION): Tablets ($10-15), SteriPEN ($50-80), or filter bottles minimal environmental impact

Hydration Goal: 3-4 liters daily. Monitor urine color (should be clear to pale yellow).

Safety & Support

Professional Guide Credentials

Your Sherpa/trekking guide provides:

• Government licensing (Tourism Board of Nepal certification)
• Wilderness first aid and altitude sickness management training
• Daily health monitoring with pulse oximeters
• Emergency protocols and rescue coordination
• Route navigation and lodge arrangements
• Cultural insights and language translation

Example of our Guide Profile:

*** Sherpa – Lead Mountain Guide

• License #: TAAN-2456
• Experience: 15 years guiding in Khumbu region
• Summits: Everest (3x), Ama Dablam, Island Peak
• Languages: Nepali, English, Tibetan
• Certifications: Wilderness First Responder, High Altitude Rescue

Porter Welfare Standards

Reputable operators ensure:

• Fair wages (wage plus food and accommodation)
• Comprehensive insurance, including rescue and medical coverage
• Adequate gear provided (warm clothing, boots, sunglasses, jackets)
• Load limits strictly enforced (maximum 20kg per porter per IPPG guidelines)
• Equal treatment and no child labor (18+ years minimum age)

International Porter Protection Group (IPPG) guidelines are followed by responsible operators like NHA(Nepal Hiking Adventure).

Emergency Protocols

Daily Health Monitoring:

• Pulse oximeter readings twice daily above 3,500m
• Lake Louise AMS Score assessment
• Physical coordination tests
• Appetite and hydration status checks

If Altitude Sickness Develops:

• Mild: Rest 24 hours, hydrate, pain relievers
• Moderate: Stop ascending immediately, consider Diamox, descend 300-500m if no improvement in 12-24 hours
• Severe: Immediate descent (only effective treatment), administer oxygen, helicopter evacuation coordination

Helicopter Evacuation

When Necessary: Severe altitude sickness not improving with descent, serious injury, medical emergencies

Process:

1. Guide contacts Nepal Hiking adventure company/trekking operator.
2. The company then sends a helicopter to your rescue.
3. Weather-permitting flights to Kathmandu’s International hospitals 
4. Then the insurance processes are done with your convenience.

Cost: Depends on altitude and location covered by mandatory travel insurance

Critical: Without insurance, payment is required out-of-pocket after helicopter dispatch (you would be asked if you are willing to pay or not). Credit card or cash payment, both are accepted.

Communication on Trail

• Mobile Coverage: Intermittent Ncell coverage from Lukla to Namche; limited at Tengboche; spotty to none above 4,000m
• WiFi: Available at most lodges but quality decreases with altitude (best in Namche; barely functional at Gorak Shep)
• Emergency Communication: Guides carry satellite phones or emergency devices and can always reach rescue services if needed

Realistic Expectations: Plan for limited communication above 4,000m. Inform family you’ll be offline for days at a time.

10-Day vs 12-14 Day Trek: Quick Comparison

Choose 10 Days If: You have exactly 10-12 days total, you’re reasonably fit and can train 1-3 weeks, you prefer efficient itineraries,

Choose 12-14 Days If: You’re a first-time high-altitude trekker, you want maximum acclimatization safety margin, you prefer extra rest days for exploration, so EBC 12 days or EBC 14 days trek would be best.

Booking Information

When to Book

• Peak Season (October, April): 2-3 months in advance
• Shoulder Season (September, November, March, May): 1-2 months in advance
• Off-Season (December-February, June-August): 2-4 weeks in advance

Required Documents

• Passport (valid 6+ months beyond travel dates)
• 4 passport photocopies
• 4 passport photos (3.5cm x 4.5cm) for permits
• Travel insurance policy details with high-altitude coverage confirmation
• Nepal entry visa (obtained on arrival at Kathmandu airport: $30 for 15 days or $50 for 30 days; bring USD cash)

Preparation Timeline

3 Months Before: Book trek, purchase flights, obtain insurance, begin training, consult doctor
2 Months Before: Continue training, purchase/rent gear, break in boots, get vaccinations (Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid, Tetanus recommended)
1 Month Before: Finalize gear, make document copies, notify bank of Nepal travel, download offline maps
2 Weeks Before: Reduce training intensity (taper period), pack and weigh bags, confirm details, exchange currency
1 Week Before: Reconfirm flights, pack final items, start Diamox if prescribed (2 days before ascending)

What to Expect After Booking

• Immediately: Confirmation email, invoice, pre-trek information packet
• 1-2 Months Before: Detailed itinerary, gear rental information, insurance verification request
• 1 Week Before: Final confirmation, Kathmandu office details, meeting time/location
• Arrival Day: Airport pickup, hotel transfer, welcome briefing
• Pre-Trek Briefing (day before Lukla flight): Meet guide at our office, gear check, duffel bag provided, permit processing, early wake-up call arranged (typically 4-5 AM for Lukla flight)

Important Logistics & Contingency Planning

Meeting Point & Start

• Location: Hotel lobby in Kathmandu (typically the Thamel area)
• Time: 4:00-5:00 AM on Day 1 for Lukla flight
• What to Bring: Daypack with essentials; main duffel bag for porter (max 10kg)

Lukla Flight Contingency

• Peak Season Note: Flights may operate from Manthali (4-5 hour drive from Kathmandu) instead of Kathmandu airport
• Delay Protocol: If flights are cancelled, accommodation provided while waiting (sometimes at extra cost)
• Helicopter Option: Available for $500-700 USD per person (shared) if delays extend beyond 24-48 hours
• Insurance Coverage: Trip interruption insurance covers additional accommodation and alternative transport costs

Emergency Medical Procedure

1. Guide assesses situation and administers first aid/oxygen if needed
2. If severe: Immediate descent to lower altitude
3. If critical: Helicopter evacuation coordinated (insurance verification required)
4. Evacuation to International Hospital in Kathmandu
5. Insurance company manages payment directly with the helicopter/hospital.

Flexible Cancellation Policy

• 5 months before departure: Full refund minus processing fee ($50-100)
• 4 months before: 75% refund or postpone trip
• 3 months before: 50% refund or postpone trip
• Less than 45 days: no refund or postpone trip
• Weather-related cancellations: Reschedule option or partial refund (minus non-refundable costs like permits)
• Medical cancellations: Claimable through travel insurance with proper documentation

Next Steps

Ready to begin your Everest adventure? Here’s how to get started:

1. Check Your Dates: Review the best season information and choose your preferred travel window
2. Assess Your Fitness: Honestly evaluate your current fitness level and available training time
3. Request Information: Contact us for detailed pricing, available dates, and any questions
4. Secure Your Spot: Book with a deposit (20-30%) to confirm your place
5. Start Training: Begin your 6-8 week preparation program
6. Prepare & Pack: Follow the preparation timeline and packing list
7. Arrive in Nepal: Meet your guide and begin the adventure of a lifetime

Get in Touch

Email, WhatsApp, Phone

Response Time: We usually reply to questions within 16 hours.

Why Trekkers Choose This Route

Based on post-trek surveys from 2022-2025 participants:

• “Perfect for my 2-week vacation” – 87% cited time efficiency as primary reason
• “Reached my goal with proper support” – 95% completion rate among prepared trekkers
• “Experienced guides made all the difference” – 92% rated guide expertise as excellent
• “Better views than I imagined” – Kala Patthar sunrise rated trek’s #1 highlight
• “Manageable challenge with right training” – 89% felt adequately prepared after 6-8 weeks of training

Standing at the base of Mount Everest, surrounded by the world’s highest peaks, with prayer flags snapping in the wind and the magnitude of your achievement settling in, this moment awaits you. The 10-day Everest Base Camp short trek turns this dream into reality without requiring weeks away from your life.

With proper preparation, expert guidance, and an efficiently planned itinerary, you’ll return home transformed by the Himalayas in less than two weeks.

Your Everest journey begins with a single step.