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Are you worried about the Lukla flight? If you love scenic overland drives and passing through local Nepali villages, the Everest Base Camp Trek by Road- Skip Lukla flight is your best choice. Travel from Kathmandu to Salleri and Surke, enjoying gradual altitude gain and stunning views. From Surke, follow the classic trail to Everest Base Camp. Affordable, flexible, and full of adventure – reach Everest the smarter way!
The Everest Base Camp Trek by jeep is a great option for trekkers who want to avoid the Lukla flight. This route starts with a long but beautiful jeep drive from Kathmandu to Surke, passing through the town of Salleri. Surke is just below Lukla and connects to the main trekking route to Everest Base Camp. This overland route is becoming more popular among those who want to save money or avoid flight cancellations at Lukla.
The journey begins with a jeep ride from Kathmandu to Salleri. Salleri is the district headquarters of Solukhumbu. It is about 270 kilometers away from Kathmandu. The drive takes around 8 to 10 hours, depending on road conditions. The road goes through hills, rivers, and local villages. It is a bumpy but scenic ride. Many trekkers stay one night in Salleri to rest and enjoy the quiet mountain town.
From Salleri, the next part of the journey is another jeep ride to Surke. This section is about 60 kilometers and takes around 5 hours. The road is rough and passes through villages like Ringmo and Kharikhola. Along the way, you can see terraced fields, traditional Sherpa homes, and local people going about their daily lives. Once you reach Surke, the trekking part begins. Surke is about 2,300 meters and is just one hour below Lukla Airport on foot.
After a short rest in Surke, the trek continues with a two-hour uphill walk to Chheplung. This is where you join the classic Everest Base Camp trail. From here, the path is well-marked and full of trekkers who started from Lukla. You will then walk through the Dudh Koshi valley and pass beautiful villages like Phakding, Monjo, and Jorsalle. Soon you reach Namche Bazaar, the famous Sherpa town, where you spend a rest day to acclimatize.
The trek from Namche continues higher through Tengboche and Dingboche. You will enjoy stunning mountain views, including Mt. Everest, Ama Dablam, and Lhotse. The trail then leads to Lobuche and Gorakshep, and finally to Everest Base Camp(EBC) at 5,364 meters. From here, many trekkers hike up to Kala Patthar for a sunrise view of Everest.
For those who are short on time, it is possible to drive directly from Kathmandu to Surke in one long day, which takes about 14 to 15 hours. This option skips the overnight stop in Salleri but can be tiring. After reaching Surke, you can rest and trek the next day.
Choosing the jeep route to Everest Base Camp gives you a safer and more flexible journey. It avoids flight delays and offers a gradual rise in altitude. It is also more affordable and lets you see more of Nepal’s countryside. This route is a perfect choice for those looking for a unique and rewarding way to reach Everest.
The journey from Kathmandu to Surke for the Everest Base Camp trek is a unique adventure, offering a mix of paved and rugged roads, along with varying levels of comfort in the transportation.
For this trip, you’ll be traveling in a Tata Sumo 7-seater, which is a reliable vehicle suited for Nepal’s challenging road conditions. While it is not a luxury vehicle, the Tata Sumo provides reasonable comfort for the long journey. It offers enough space for a small group, though it can be bumpy at times due to the rough terrain, particularly as the journey progresses. However, the vehicle is sturdy and designed to handle the twists and turns of mountain roads.
The road from Kathmandu to Salleri and Phaplu is paved, making the initial part of the journey relatively smooth and comfortable. This section offers an easy drive with fewer obstacles, allowing you to relax and enjoy the changing landscapes. However, after Phaplu, the road becomes more rugged and unpaved, with steep inclines and narrow pathways, especially as you approach Surke. This part of the road is carved along cliffs, offering dramatic views of the river below and the surrounding mountains. The journey through alpine forests adds an element of serenity, but it also means the ride can be more uncomfortable due to the rough terrain.
The unpaved section of the road is where the real adventure begins. Traveling along the cliffs offers breathtaking views of the river valleys and mountain peaks, and the lush alpine forests add to the beauty of the journey. The road can be challenging, with narrow stretches and some hairpin bends, which adds to the thrill. However, the stunning landscapes more than make up for any discomfort, providing a scenic preview of the beauty you will encounter during your trek.
Cost Savings: Skip the expensive Lukla flight and save money for other parts of the trip.
Adventure-Filled Journey: Enjoy a thrilling 15-hour jeep ride through Nepal’s rugged landscapes and picturesque villages.
No Flight Delays: Avoid the uncertainty of weather-related flight cancellations, ensuring a more reliable schedule.
Better Acclimatization: The gradual ascent by jeep allows for a smoother acclimatization process before reaching higher altitudes.
Closer Cultural Connection: Experience the local culture by passing through remote villages and interacting with locals along the way.
Less Crowded: The jeep ride offers a quieter, less crowded alternative to the popular Lukla flight route.
Physical Warm-Up: The bumpy ride can serve as a good physical warm-up for the trek ahead.
Sallery Bazaar
Altitude: Kathmandu (1,300m) → Salleri (2,400m)
Distance: ~270 km | Drive Time: 9–10 hrs
Overnight: Lodge in Salleri
Start early from Kathmandu and embark on a scenic jeep drive through the Kathmandu valley, passing Bhaktapur and Dhulikhel. The route follows winding roads alongside rivers, terraced fields, and small villages. The road gradually climbs as you enter the Solukhumbu district. You will pass through rural towns and forested hills, experiencing rural Nepalese life firsthand. Arrive in Salleri by late afternoon, a peaceful town surrounded by pine forests and mountain views. Rest and prepare for the next day’s journey.
Colourful Phakding Village-EBC trek
Altitude: Salleri (2,400m) → Surke (2,300m) → Phakding (2,610m)
Distance: 60 km drive + 5 km trek | Drive Time: 5 hrs | Trek Time: 2 hrs
Overnight: Lodge in Phakding
After breakfast, continue the jeep journey from Salleri to Surke on a rugged mountainous road. Enjoy panoramic views of terraced hills and Sherpa villages such as Kharikhola and Jubing. The road descends into river valleys before reaching Surke, a quiet village near Lukla. From Surke, start your trek along the Dudh Koshi riverbank, walking gently uphill through pine forests and small settlements to Phakding. The riverside village offers a calm atmosphere and welcoming lodges.
Trekking gear shops in Namche Bazaar
Altitude: Phakding (2,610m) → Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
Distance: 10 km | Trek Time: 6 hrs
Overnight: Lodge in Namche Bazaar
Begin your day walking alongside the Dudh Koshi river, crossing suspension bridges with views of waterfalls and rocky cliffs. Pass villages like Toktok and Benkar, and enter Sagarmatha National Park at Monjo where permits are checked. The trail continues through forests and farms to Jorsalle for lunch. The final leg is a steep, 2-3 hour climb up through rhododendron and pine forests to Namche Bazaar. Enjoy stunning mountain views, including your first clear sight of Mount Everest if the weather allows. Namche is the bustling Sherpa capital with shops, cafes, and a lively market.
Everest View Hotel Above Namche
Altitude: Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
Activity: Rest day with short hikes
Overnight: Lodge in Namche Bazaar
Spend the day acclimatizing to the higher altitude with a relaxed pace. After breakfast, hike up to the Everest View Hotel at 3,880m for spectacular panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. Continue to Khumjung village, a traditional Sherpa settlement with a historic monastery and Yeti artifacts. Return to Namche Bazaar in the afternoon, where you can explore local shops or visit the Sherpa Culture Museum. Rest well for the next day’s trek.
Stunning Ama Dablam mountain view from Tengboche
Altitude: Namche Bazaar (3,440m) → Tengboche (3,860m)
Distance: ~10 km | Trek Time: 5–6 hrs
Overnight: Lodge in Tengboche
The trail starts with a gradual climb out of Namche, offering repeated views of Ama Dablam and Everest. Along the way, you will pass small Buddhist chortens (shrines) and mani walls inscribed with prayers. The path then descends gently through dense pine and rhododendron forests to Phunki Tenga (3,250m), a popular lunch spot. After lunch, enjoy a steady uphill walk for about two hours to reach Tengboche, famous for its large monastery set against a stunning mountain backdrop. If time allows, attend the monks’ afternoon prayer ceremony for a spiritual experience.
Beautiful Dingboche Village -EBC trek
Altitude: Tengboche (3,860m) → Dingboche (4,410m)
Distance: ~11 km | Trek Time: 5–6 hrs
Overnight: Lodge in Dingboche
Leave Tengboche with spectacular views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku. The trail winds through forests and crosses several streams before climbing steadily through alpine meadows. You’ll pass through Pangboche village, the highest permanent settlement in the region, known for its ancient monastery. Continue trekking along the valley floor to Dingboche, a picturesque village surrounded by rocky peaks. Here you’ll rest and prepare for acclimatization.
Nangkarhkang Hill (EBC Trek)
Altitude: Dingboche (4,410m)
Activity: Rest day with hike
Overnight: Lodge in Dingboche
To help your body adjust, take a half-day hike to Nangkartshang Peak (around 5,100m), which takes about 3-4 hours round trip. The trail offers breathtaking views of Makalu, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and the valley below. Spend the afternoon relaxing in Dingboche village and enjoying the mountain scenery.
Lobuche -EBC trek
Altitude: Dingboche (4,410m) → Lobuche (4,910m)
Distance: ~7 km | Trek Time: 4–5 hrs
Overnight: Lodge in Lobuche
Today’s trek is shorter but at a higher altitude. The trail passes through moraine fields and rocky terrain with views of Pumori and Nuptse. You’ll pass memorials dedicated to climbers who lost their lives on Everest. Lobuche is a small settlement offering basic lodges and a last stop before the final push to Everest Base Camp.
At Gorakshep-5,180m
Altitude: Lobuche (4,910m) → Gorakshep (5,164m) → Everest Base Camp (5,364m)
Distance: ~15 km | Trek Time: 7–8 hrs
Overnight: Lodge in Gorakshep
Start early for the challenging trek from Lobuche to Gorakshep, crossing rugged terrain and glaciers. From Gorakshep, continue for about two hours to reach the iconic Everest Base Camp. Take time to explore the site, surrounded by towering peaks and massive glaciers. After photos and rest, return to Gorakshep for the night.
Near Pangboche village-EBC trek
Altitude: Gorakshep (5,164m) → Kala Patthar (5,545m) → Pheriche or Pangboche (~4,000m)
Distance: ~12 km | Trek Time: 6–7 hrs
Overnight: Lodge in Pheriche or Pangboche
Wake before dawn and hike up Kala Patthar for the best sunrise views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Nuptse. After descending back to Gorakshep, continue trekking downhill through moraine and meadows toward Pheriche or Pangboche. The descent is refreshing after several days of uphill trekking.
Near By Namche Bazaar
Altitude: Pangboche (~4,000m) → Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
Distance: ~12 km | Trek Time: 5–6 hrs
Overnight: Lodge in Namche Bazaar
The trail descends through forests and small villages, passing Tengboche monastery once again. Enjoy the diverse flora and fauna, and take breaks to admire the snow-capped peaks. Arrive back in Namche Bazaar by afternoon, where you can relax and enjoy your final night in the Sherpa region.
stepping onwards Namche Bazaar-3450m
Altitude: Namche Bazaar (3,440m) → Surke (2,300m)
Distance: ~15 km | Trek Time: 6–7 hrs
Overnight: Lodge in Surke
Begin descending the trail through familiar villages like Monjo and Phakding, passing suspension bridges and rivers. The gradual downhill walk brings you back closer to the lower elevations and warmer climates. Surke offers a comfortable overnight stop in a peaceful village setting.
Surke Village
Altitude: Surke (2,300m) → Salleri (2,400m)
Distance: ~60 km | Drive Time: 5 hrs
Overnight: Lodge in Salleri
After breakfast, board your jeep for the drive back along the rugged mountain roads to Salleri. Enjoy the views of terraced hillsides, rushing rivers, and traditional Sherpa villages on the way. Rest overnight in Salleri, reflecting on your trek accomplishments.
Sallery to Kathmandu Drive
Altitude: Salleri (2,400m) → Kathmandu (1,300m)
Distance: ~270 km | Drive Time: 9 hrs
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu
On the final day, embark on the long jeep ride back to Kathmandu. The route retraces the scenic valleys and hills from the start of your journey. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant celebrating your successful Everest Base Camp trek.
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My trek to Everest Base Camp with Safe Holiday Adventure Pvt. Ltd. was an experience I will never forget. Instead of flying to Lukla, we took the scenic road journey from Kathmandu to Surke via Sallery, which was a wonderful way to start the adventure. This drive allowed me to truly appreciate the beauty of Nepal’s countryside — lush green hills, terraced farms, and charming small villages where life feels simple and peaceful. It was a rare opportunity to connect with local culture before the trek even began.
Safe Holiday Adventure took care of every detail with professionalism and care. From the airport pickup to arranging all the necessary permits, transport, and porter services, everything was smooth and hassle-free. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive, always making sure we were comfortable and motivated. His expertise made the trek safer and more enjoyable, especially in the high-altitude sections.
Along the trail, the accommodations were cozy and well-maintained, providing a welcome rest after long days of trekking. The itinerary was thoughtfully designed with a good pace, allowing proper acclimatization without feeling rushed. I truly felt supported by the entire team throughout the journey.
For anyone wanting a safe, authentic, and well-organized Everest Base Camp trek without taking the Lukla flight, I wholeheartedly recommend Safe Holiday Adventure Pvt. Ltd. Their professionalism and dedication turned my dream trek into a reality I’ll cherish forever.
Noah Davis
Perth, Australia
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The Everest Base Camp trek without Lukla flight, starting with a road trip from Kathmandu to Surke via Sallery, was a refreshing adventure. Safe Holiday Adventure Pvt. Ltd. handled every detail with professionalism and care. The jeep ride was comfortable, allowing me to see rural Nepal and experience local life. Once trekking started, their expert guide ensured my safety and comfort throughout the journey. The tea houses were well chosen, and the itinerary was perfectly balanced with enough time to enjoy the spectacular mountain views. I especially liked that this route reduced the risks and delays common with flights to Lukla. Safe Holiday Adventure made this challenging trek smooth and enjoyable. Highly recommended!
Liam Smith
Australia
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Choosing to trek to Everest Base Camp without flying to Lukla was the best decision I made! Driving from Kathmandu to Surke via Sallery allowed me to enjoy the beautiful landscapes and small villages, making the journey even more special. Safe Holiday Adventure Pvt. Ltd. organized everything perfectly — from the airport pickup, the comfortable jeep ride, to the detailed trekking itinerary. Their guide was knowledgeable and very patient, explaining the culture, nature, and mountains along the way. I appreciated how smoothly everything went, especially because trekking without the Lukla flight can be complicated. This company’s care and professionalism made the trek safe and unforgettable. I am grateful and would trek with them again.
Warm Regards
Emily Johnson
Date: May 2025
Jack Wilson
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I recently completed the Everest Base Camp trek without taking the Lukla flight, instead driving from Kathmandu to Surke via Sallery, and it was an incredible experience. The drive through the beautiful countryside gave me a chance to see Nepal’s culture and nature up close before the trek. The road was comfortable and safe, arranged perfectly by Safe Holiday Adventure. The trekking route was well planned, with excellent tea houses and stunning mountain views. The guide and porter provided by Safe Holiday Adventure were very professional, friendly, and supportive throughout. I felt safe and well taken care of every step of the way. I highly recommend this company for anyone wanting a unique EBC experience without the Lukla flight hassle.
Date: April 2025
Describe what this trek option is about — instead of flying to Lukla, travelers take a road journey to reach the starting point of the trek. Explain why some trekkers choose this option (e.g., avoid costly and sometimes risky Lukla flights, see more local life, enjoy a scenic road trip). Mention it’s less common but growing in popularity for adventurous travelers.
Explain the road route from Kathmandu to Salleri or Salleri to Phaplu, which is the usual starting point when skipping Lukla flight. Describe the type of vehicles used (e.g., jeep, 4WD), the condition of the roads (mostly rough mountain roads), approximate distance (~320 km), and estimated travel time (12-14 hours or split over two days). Mention stopovers in local towns or villages like Ramechhap, Okhaldhunga, and Salleri for rest and meals.
List the advantages:
Be honest about the drawbacks:
Explain how skipping the Lukla flight affects the trek itinerary. For example, you may start trekking from Phaplu or Salleri instead of Lukla, adding extra days for the road journey. Describe how the trek’s starting point changes and what new villages or landmarks trekkers will see on the way. Mention the usual trekking duration (12-16 days) with road transfer days included.
Describe accommodation options during the road journey and the trek. Mention guesthouses, tea houses, and lodges in towns like Salleri, Phaplu, and smaller villages en route to Lukla and beyond. Note the quality and availability of food, water, and basic amenities.
Discuss altitude profile starting from Kathmandu (1,400m), road travel to Salleri (~2,300m) or Phaplu (~2,200m), then trekking up to Lukla (2,860m) and higher. Explain the importance of acclimatization days at places like Namche Bazaar, Dingboche, or Pheriche to avoid altitude sickness.
Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit
This permit is issued by the local government authority of the Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality, which covers parts of the Solukhumbu region, including the trail areas around Salleri. It is mandatory for trekkers passing through this municipality. The permit helps support local administration and conservation efforts. You must carry this permit during your trek as it will be checked at various checkpoints along the route.
Sagarmatha National Park Permit
This is required to enter the protected Sagarmatha National Park, home to Mount Everest and other iconic Himalayan peaks. The park authority issues this permit to regulate tourism and protect the fragile environment. It is essential for all trekkers in the Everest region, including those starting from Salleri. The permit is checked at park entry points and checkpoints during your trek.
Give recommendations on gear needed for the longer trip, including road journey and trek:
Explain the best seasons to do this trip, usually autumn (Sept-Nov) and spring (March-May), due to better weather and views. Mention that the road conditions can be difficult in monsoon (June-August), and winter (Dec-Feb) can be cold and snowy.
Discuss safety aspects: road safety during the long drive, altitude sickness awareness, the importance of hiring experienced guides and porters, and how to manage emergencies. Mention helicopter evacuation possibilities and emergency contacts.
1. What is the EBC trek by road?
The EBC trek by road is a combination of jeep travel and trekking. You drive from Kathmandu to a starting point, such as Salleri, and then trek to Everest Base Camp, returning by jeep.
2. How long does the trek take?
The trek usually takes between 12 and 16 days, depending on the route and pace of the trek.
3. What is the best time to trek to Everest Base Camp?
The best times are October-November and March-April, when the weather is clear and temperatures are moderate for trekking.
4. Is it safe to travel to EBC by jeep?
Yes, it is generally safe, though the roads can be rough and bumpy. You’ll be traveling with an experienced driver, and the trek itself is well-established.
5. What should I pack for the trek?
You should pack light, comfortable trekking clothes, a sleeping bag, a down jacket, trekking poles, and personal hygiene items. You can also rent or buy trekking gear in Kathmandu.
6. How difficult is the trek?
The EBC trek is of moderate difficulty, with some steep sections, but most of the trekking is gradual. A reasonable level of fitness is required.
7. Do I need to worry about altitude sickness?
Yes, altitude sickness can occur, especially above 3,000 meters. Make sure to take acclimatization days and drink plenty of water to prevent it.
8. Are meals included during the trek?
Yes, most trekking packages include meals during the trek. These are typically served in teahouses or lodges along the trail.
9. Will I be guided during the trek?
Yes, you will be provided with a professional guide to lead you through the trek and a porter to carry your luggage.
10. Do I need travel insurance for the trek?
Yes, it is recommended to have travel insurance that covers trekking at high altitudes, including emergency evacuation.
Safe Holiday Adventure Pvt. Ltd.
P.O.Box: 20065 Tarkeshwor-6, Kathmandu, Nepal
Cell: 00977 9849116284
Email: info@safeholidayadventure.com,
safeholidayadventure@gmail.com
Europe Contact
Mark Brosius
mark.brosius@hotmail.com
Oude baan, 41, 3060 Bertem, Belgium
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