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March 12, 2020
The Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek is a highly sought-after destination for hiking enthusiasts from all around the world. It offers an unparalleled experience of walking through unique cultural Sherpa villages and taking in the breathtaking views of the world-famous, sky-touching mountains. However, it is not an easy feat, and hikers need to be well-informed before embarking on this journey.
To ensure a successful and memorable EBC trek, it is crucial to prepare adequately and gather all necessary information beforehand. As per our esteemed EBC trek clients, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions and their brief answers. We hope that these answers will help you make the most of your journey and avoid any inconvenience.
In case you have any further queries or concerns regarding the trek, please feel free to drop us an email at info@safeholidayadventure.com. Our team of experts will be more than happy to assist you.
Yes, it is possible to obtain a Nepal visa upon arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu. The visa can be obtained from the visa counter at the airport upon presentation of a valid passport, two passport-sized photos, and the visa fee in cash. The visa fee varies depending on the length of stay and the type of visa required (tourist, business, or study).
It is advisable to carry the exact amount of cash in the preferred currency to avoid any inconvenience. The Nepal visa can also be obtained from Nepalese embassies or consulates in your home country before your arrival in Nepal.
Is there somebody from safe holiday adventure P.L. to pick me from the airport to the hotel?
Yes, Safe Holiday Adventure P.L. offers airport pickup services for their clients. When you book a trek or tour with them, you can request an airport pickup service from the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu to your hotel in the city. A representative from Safe Holiday Adventure will be waiting for you at the airport arrival terminal, holding a sign with your name, and will transfer you to your hotel in a private vehicle.
To avail of this service, you need to provide your flight details, including your flight number, arrival time, and date, to Safe Holiday Adventure P.L. in advance. They will arrange the pickup accordingly and ensure a hassle-free transfer to your hotel.
When traveling to Nepal, it is important to know the visa requirements for your particular nationality. While many nationalities can obtain a visa upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, there are a few exceptions.
Citizens of Afghanistan, Iraq, Nigeria, Cameroon, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Somalia, Ethiopia, Liberia, and Palestine are not able to obtain visas on arrival in Nepal. Instead, they must obtain their visa from a Nepalese embassy or consulate in their home country before they travel to Nepal.
It is recommended that travelers check the visa requirements for their specific nationality before they book their trip to Nepal to avoid any issues or delays. It is also important to note that visa regulations can change, so it is a good idea to check for any updates or changes before your trip.
For those who are eligible to obtain a visa on arrival, the process is fairly straightforward. You can fill out the visa application form at the airport, which will require basic personal information and details about your trip, such as the purpose of your visit and your intended length of stay. You will also need to provide a passport-sized photo, a valid passport with at least six months validity remaining, and the visa fee in US dollars, which varies depending on the length of your stay. After your application is processed, you will receive your visa, which is valid for a maximum of 90 days.
To obtain a Nepali visa upon arrival at the Kathmandu airport, there are several important documents that you will need to have with you. These include:
It’s important to note that visa requirements can vary depending on your country of origin, so it’s a good idea to check with your local Nepali embassy or consulate before traveling to Nepal.
The Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trekking and Kalapathar are considered to be challenging treks, and it is important to be physically and mentally prepared before embarking on the journey. The treks involve walking for several hours each day at high altitudes, often on steep and rugged terrain. The altitude and low oxygen levels can also make the trek more difficult.
That being said, the difficulty level of the EBC trek can vary depending on factors such as the route, the time of year, and the individual’s physical fitness level and prior trekking experience. The EBC trek is generally considered to be a moderate to strenuous trek, with some steep uphill climbs and long descents. The trek to Kalapathar is also considered to be challenging due to the high altitude and steep ascent to the summit.
It is recommended that trekkers engage in regular physical exercise and acclimatization hikes to prepare for the trek. It is also important to listen to the advice of experienced guides and take necessary precautions to avoid altitude sickness.
Overall, the EBC Trekking and Kalapathar can be physically and mentally challenging, but the stunning views of the Himalayas and the unique cultural experiences make it a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for many trekkers.
How much does it cost to do the EBC and Kalapathar Trek?
The cost of doing the Everest Base Camp (EBC) and Kalapathar trek can vary depending on various factors such as the time of year, duration of the trek, type of accommodation, food and drink expenses, equipment rental fees, and the cost of a guide and porter services.
On average, the cost of the EBC and Kalapathar trek can range from $1,200 to $2,500 USD per person for a 14-16 day trek. This cost typically includes food, accommodation, guide and porter services, necessary permits, and ground transportation. However, the cost can be lower or higher depending on the factors mentioned above.
It’s important to note that trekking independently without a guide or porter can significantly lower the cost of the trek. However, it’s generally recommended to have a guide and/or porter for safety and convenience, especially for those who are inexperienced with high altitude trekking.
The Classic Everest Base Camp Trek, also known as the Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek, is a popular and historic trekking route in Nepal. It was the original route to Everest Base Camp before the construction of the Lukla airport. This trek takes around 21-23 days to complete and covers a distance of approximately 170 kilometers.
The Jiri to EBC trek passes through several small villages and settlements, offering a unique opportunity to experience the local culture and lifestyle of the people in the Solu-Khumbu region. Some of the settlements include Deurali, Sete, Bupsa, Surke, Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, and Gorak Shep.
The trek also offers stunning views of the Himalayan range, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and many others. The highlight of the trek is reaching the Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar, which provides panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
After reaching Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar, the trek follows the same route back to Lukla and Kathmandu, offering a chance to revisit some of the villages and settlements on the way back. Overall, the Jiri to EBC trek is a challenging yet rewarding adventure that allows trekkers to experience the natural and cultural beauty of the Everest region.
During the Everest Base Camp (EBC) and Kalapatthar trek, trekkers typically stay in tea houses or lodges that are found in the small villages along the trail. These tea houses offer basic but comfortable accommodation, with private or shared rooms, as well as communal dining areas where trekkers can enjoy hot meals and beverages.
In general, the tea houses along the EBC and Kalapatthar trek are simple and cozy, with basic amenities such as blankets, pillows, and a shared bathroom with running water. The rooms are usually equipped with a twin bed or a double bed, and some may even have an attached bathroom.
It’s important to note that the availability and quality of accommodation can vary depending on the time of year and the level of trekking traffic. During peak trekking seasons, such as in the fall and spring, the tea houses can fill up quickly, and it’s important to book accommodation in advance to ensure availability.
It’s also recommended to bring a good quality sleeping bag that can keep you warm and comfortable during the cold nights at higher altitudes. Additionally, it’s a good idea to bring earplugs, as the tea houses can be noisy and busy, and it can be challenging to sleep without them.
During the Everest Base Camp (EBC) and Kalapathar trek, most tea houses and lodges have shared bathroom facilities. The types of toilets and bathrooms available can vary depending on the location and the level of development of the tea house or lodge. Here are some of the most common types of toilets and bathrooms you can expect to find on the trail:
Squat toilets: Squat toilets are the most common type of toilet you’ll find on the EBC and Kalapathar trek. These are essentially a hole in the ground, and you’ll need to squat over them to use them.
Western-style toilets: Some of the tea houses and lodges have western-style toilets, which are similar to the toilets you would find in the western world. These toilets have a seat, and you sit down to use them.
Outdoor toilets: In some more remote areas, the toilets may be located outside the tea house or lodge, and they may not have any walls or doors.
Bucket toilets: In some basic tea houses, a bucket toilet may be used. This is a simple system where a bucket is placed under a toilet seat, and once used, the contents of the bucket are disposed of outside.
Showers: Most tea houses and lodges have shared shower facilities. These can vary from simple cold-water showers to more elaborate solar-heated showers.
It’s important to note that the availability and cleanliness of the toilet and bathroom facilities can vary depending on the location and the level of development of the tea house or lodge. It’s always a good idea to carry your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer, as these may not be provided.
It is possible to get a single bedroom during the Everest Base Camp (EBC) and Kala Patthar trek, but it may not be available at all tea houses or lodges. The availability of single rooms can vary depending on the location and level of development of the tea house or lodge. In some of the more basic and remote tea houses, only shared rooms may be available.
If you want to have a single bedroom, it’s recommended that you book accommodation in advance, especially during the peak trekking seasons of spring and fall when the tea houses can fill up quickly. Some of the more developed and larger tea houses may have a limited number of single rooms available, but they tend to be more expensive than shared rooms.
It’s important to keep in mind that the availability and quality of accommodation can vary along the EBC and Kala Patthar trek, and the tea houses can be very basic with limited facilities. You may need to be flexible and open to sharing a room with other trekkers to make the most of the trekking experience. Additionally, it’s a good idea to bring a good quality sleeping bag and a warm layer to ensure that you’re comfortable and warm during the cold nights at higher altitudes.
Trekking to Everest Base Camp is a challenging adventure and it’s important to be properly equipped with the right gear to ensure your safety and comfort during the journey. Here are some of the major trekking gears you will need for the Everest Base Camp trek:
It’s important to note that these are just the basic essentials and you may need additional gear depending on your personal requirements and preferences. It’s always a good idea to consult with a professional trekking company or a knowledgeable guide to ensure that you have everything you need for a safe and comfortable trek to Everest Base Camp.
On the Everest Base Camp and Kalapatthar trek, you can expect to eat a variety of different types of food. Here are some of the common types of food you might encounter during the trek:
Nepali cuisine: You’ll have the opportunity to try traditional Nepali dishes, such as dal bhat (rice and lentils), momos (dumplings), and thukpa (noodle soup).
Western cuisine: Many teahouses and lodges along the trekking route serve a variety of western dishes such as pizza, pasta, sandwiches, and burgers.
Breakfast foods: Breakfast is usually a combination of bread, eggs, porridge, muesli, and pancakes.
Snacks: During the trek, you can find a variety of snacks such as biscuits, chocolate bars, chips, and nuts.
Drinks: You can expect to find a range of drinks including tea, coffee, hot chocolate, soft drinks, and beer.
Vegetarian and vegan options: Many teahouses and lodges along the route offer vegetarian and vegan options. It’s important to inform your guide and lodge owners of your dietary restrictions ahead of time.
It’s important to note that food options may be limited at higher altitudes, and the cost of food can increase as you move higher. Many trekkers also bring some of their own snacks or energy bars to supplement their meals.
The amount of time you’ll spend walking each day on the Everest Base Camp and Kalapatthar trek depends on several factors, including your fitness level, the itinerary you’ve chosen, and the altitude. Typically, you’ll walk anywhere from 4 to 8 hours per day on this trek.
Here’s a rough breakdown of the walking times for each day of the classic Everest Base Camp trek itinerary:
Day 1: Lukla to Phakding – 3 hours
Day 2: Phakding to Namche Bazaar – 5-6 hours
Day 3: Acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar
Day 4: Namche Bazaar to Tengboche – 5-6 hours
Day 5: Tengboche to Dingboche – 5-6 hours
Day 6: Acclimatization day in Dingboche
Day 7: Dingboche to Lobuche – 5-6 hours
Day 8: Lobuche to Gorak Shep, with a side trip to Everest Base Camp – 7-8 hours
Day 9: Hike up to Kala Patthar and back to Gorak Shep – 7-8 hours
Day 10: Gorak Shep to Pheriche – 5-6 hours
Day 11: Pheriche to Namche Bazaar – 5-6 hours
Day 12: Namche Bazaar to Lukla – 6-7 hours
It’s important to note that the walking times can vary depending on your pace and the altitude. Additionally, some days may involve more uphill or downhill trekking, which can affect the overall difficulty of the day’s hike. It’s always a good idea to consult with a professional trekking company or a knowledgeable guide to help you plan your itinerary and prepare for the trek.
Generally speaking, trekking to Everest Base Camp is not recommended if you are pregnant, have any underlying health conditions, are severely overweight, have a weak cardiovascular system, or have never done a high-altitude trek before. Additionally, it is not recommended to trek to Everest Base Camp during the monsoon season, as the trail may be wet and slippery and the risk of landslides is higher. Finally, it is also not recommended to trek to the Base Camp if you do not have adequate insurance coverage.
The Everest Base Camp trek is generally considered to be a moderate level trek , and can be completed by most people with some trekking experience and good physical fitness . However, the altitude can make it more challenging, as the air is thinner and the lack of oxygen can make everything more difficult.
Additionally, the distance to walk is not very far, but there are steep ascents and descents, which can make the trek more challenging. Fear of heights can also make the trek more difficult, as parts of the trail follow steep mountain paths.
The distance from Kathmandu to Everest Base Camp is approximately 130 kilometers (81 miles) as the crow flies. However, the actual trekking distance can vary depending on the specific route taken and can be longer due to the winding mountainous terrain. Typically, it takes about 12-14 days to complete the round trip trek from Kathmandu to Everest Base Camp and back.
Yes, it is possible to skip the Lukla flight for the Everest Base Camp trek by taking alternative routes. These include trekking from Bhandar to Lukla and then to EBC, taking a bus or jeep from Kathmandu to Salleri and then trekking to Rigmo, Lukla, and EBC, or flying by helicopter directly from Kathmandu to Lukla before trekking to EBC.
The option you choose will depend on your time and budget. Skipping the Lukla flight is a good option for those who are afraid of the flight or have other reasons for avoiding it. However, it’s important to note that these alternative routes can add extra days and challenges to the trek.
The best time to go for the Everest Base Camp trek is during the spring (March to May) and the autumn (September to November) seasons. During these months, the weather is generally dry and clear, with mild to warm temperatures, making it ideal for trekking.
In the spring, the weather is mild with occasional rain, and the rhododendron forests along the trail are in full bloom, making for beautiful scenery. In the autumn, the weather is generally dry with clear skies, and the views of the mountains are spectacular.
During the winter months (December to February), the weather can be very cold, and the trails may be snow-covered, making it difficult to trek. Similarly, in the summer months (June to August), it is monsoon season in Nepal, and the trails can be muddy and slippery, with the possibility of landslides.
Overall, if you want to have the best experience on the Everest Base Camp trek, plan to go during the spring or autumn months when the weather is favorable and the views are breathtaking.
Yes, you can rent trekking gear in Kathmandu. There are many trekking gear shops and rental stores located in the Thamel neighborhood of Kathmandu, which is a popular hub for trekking and tourism.
These shops typically offer a wide range of trekking gear for rent, including items such as sleeping bags, down jackets, trekking poles, backpacks, and more. The quality of the gear may vary, so it’s important to inspect the items carefully before renting them to ensure they are in good condition and suitable for your needs.
It’s also worth noting that renting gear may be a more cost-effective option than buying new gear, especially if you’re only planning to use it for a short period of time. However, if you plan to do a lot of trekking or outdoor activities in the future, it may be worth investing in your own high-quality gear.
Altitude mountain sickness (AMS) is a common condition that can affect trekkers and climbers when they ascend to high elevations too quickly. The symptoms of AMS can range from mild to severe and can include:
Headache: This is the most common symptom of AMS and is usually the first sign of the condition. The headache can be severe and persistent, even with pain medication.
It’s important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions or factors, so it’s important to consult a healthcare provider if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms at high altitude. In severe cases, AMS can progress to more serious conditions such as High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) and High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE), which require immediate medical attention.
There is no official age limit for the Everest Base Camp trekking in Nepal, but it is recommended that trekkers be at least 18 years old or accompanied by an adult.
The main considerations for trekking to high altitudes like EBC are a person’s physical fitness and overall health. It’s important to be in good physical condition and have no serious health problems before attempting the trek, regardless of age.
That being said, older adults may face additional challenges due to factors like decreased stamina and increased risk of altitude sickness. It’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider before embarking on any high-altitude trek, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions.
Additionally, some trekking companies may have their own age restrictions or requirements for their treks, so it’s important to check with your chosen company before booking a trek to ensure that you meet their criteria.
While it’s not strictly necessary to have a local guide or porter for the Everest Base Camp trek, it’s highly recommended.
A local guide can provide valuable insight into the local culture, geography, and customs, and can also offer safety and support in case of emergency. Additionally, a local guide can help you navigate the sometimes confusing trail and ensure that you don’t get lost or take a wrong turn.
A porter can be especially helpful if you’re carrying a lot of gear or are not used to high-altitude trekking. A porter can carry your heavier items and reduce the physical strain on your body, allowing you to focus more on enjoying the experience of the trek.
If you choose to hire a local guide or porter, it’s important to choose a reputable company and ensure that your guide or porter is properly trained and equipped for the trek. Additionally, it’s important to treat your guide and porter with respect and ensure that they are paid a fair wage for their services.
Generally speaking, it is safe to bring a big camera, GoPro, or expensive electrical devices during the Everest Base Camp trek . However, it is important to take measures to protect your devices, such as using a waterproof case, using a bag with padding, and ensuring that the batteries are fully charged.
Additionally, it is also important to check the local regulations, as some areas may have restrictions on the use of certain devices.
If you experience symptoms of altitude mountain sickness (AMS) or other sicknesses while trekking in the mountains, it’s important to take them seriously and respond appropriately. Here are some steps you can take if you feel sick:
It’s important to be aware of the symptoms of AMS and respond quickly if they occur. In addition, it’s important to be prepared for emergencies by carrying a first aid kit and having a plan in place for medical emergencies.
Yes, it’s possible to use internet and Wi-Fi during the Everest Base Camp trek, but the availability and reliability of these services can vary depending on the location and the service provider. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Wi-Fi: Some lodges along the trekking route may offer Wi-Fi for free or for a small fee, but the quality and speed of the connection can be unreliable. It’s best to not rely on Wi-Fi as your primary means of communication or work during the trek.
Mobile Data: Mobile data services are available from Nepalese telecommunication companies such as Ncell and Nepal Telecom, and can provide internet access in many areas along the trekking route. However, data coverage can be unreliable in some remote areas.
Internet Cafes: In some larger towns like Namche Bazaar, there are internet cafes where you can pay for access to a computer with an internet connection.
Satellite Communication: Satellite communication devices like Garmin InReach or Iridium GO! can be used to stay connected in areas without cellular network coverage, but they can be expensive and require a subscription.
Keep in mind that internet and Wi-Fi access may be limited during the Everest Base Camp trek, and it’s important to not rely on these services as your primary means of communication or work. It’s always a good idea to have a backup plan in case these services are not available or not working properly.
Generally, you should plan to budget about US$ 200 to US$ 500 for extra local money for an Everest base camp trek [1]. This money can be used for any additional expenses that you may incur during your trek, such as snacks and drinks, souvenirs, tips for the local guides and porters, and any other miscellaneous items you may need.
Sagarmatha National Park Permit: All trekkers entering the Everest region must have a Sagarmatha National Park Permit. As of 2023, the cost for this permit is NPR 3,000 (approximately USD 25) per person.
Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit: In addition to the national park permit, trekkers must also obtain a local permit from the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality. The cost of this permit is NPR 2,000 (approximately USD 17) per person.
TIMS Card: The Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) Card is a database of trekkers traveling in Nepal. As of 2023, the cost for this card is USD 10 per person. However, the TIMS Card is not required for Everest Base Camp trekking if you have a Sagarmatha National Park Permit and a Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit.
Keep in mind that the permit fees are subject to change, and it’s always a good idea to check with your trekking company or the appropriate government agency to confirm the latest fees.
The normal size of a trekking group for Everest Base Camp can vary depending on the trekking company and the preference of the trekker. In general, groups can range in size from solo trekkers to large groups of 20 or more people.
Most trekking companies will organize group treks with 4-12 trekkers per group. This is a popular option for many trekkers, as it allows for camaraderie and shared experiences along the trekking route. Additionally, larger groups may require additional support staff such as porters and assistant guides.
Some trekkers prefer to trek alone or in a smaller group of 2-3 people. This can offer more flexibility and freedom to set your own pace and itinerary, but it also requires more self-sufficiency and planning.
Ultimately, the size of the trekking group is a personal choice and depends on factors such as budget, travel preferences, and trekking experience.
While trekking in the mountains, it is possible to bring your own snacks and chocolate, but when staying at a guesthouse or lodge, it’s important to follow their rules and eat at the same place. The reason for this is that the accommodation charge is relatively low, and the guesthouses and lodges rely on food sales to recover their expenses. If you choose to eat only your own food, the lodge owner may become upset and feel disrespected.
If you have dietary restrictions or health issues that require you to eat your own food, it’s important to inform the guesthouse owner in advance. However, if you simply choose not to eat at the guesthouse, you may be subject to penalties as specified by the lodge management committee.
In summary, while you can bring your own snacks, it’s generally expected that you will eat at the guesthouse where you are staying. This will allow you to sample local cuisine, and will also help support the local economy.
Safe Holiday Adventure Pvt. Ltd.
P.O.Box: 20065
Nayabazar-16,Khusibu,Kathmandu, Nepal
Cell: 00977 9849116284
Email: info@safeholidayadventure.com,
safeholidayadventure@gmail.com
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