Walking Distance from Lukla to Everest Base Camp: A Complete Guide

January 10, 2025

Overview of the Trek from Lukla to Everest Base Camp:

The trek from Lukla to Everest Base Camp is one of the most iconic and sought-after treks in the world, attracting adventurers and trekkers who dream of standing at the foot of Mount Everest. The journey spans approximately 65 kilometers (40 miles) one-way and typically takes 12-14 days, depending on the pace and acclimatization needs. The trek is challenging due to the altitude, steep terrain, and unpredictable weather, but the breathtaking views and sense of achievement make it a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The trek begins in Lukla, which is accessed via a thrilling flight from Kathmandu. Lukla serves as the gateway to the Everest region and marks the start of the adventure. From here, trekkers head towards Phakding and continue to the bustling town of Namche Bazaar, the main hub of the Khumbu region, where trekkers can acclimatize before continuing further.

As the trek progresses, the route takes trekkers through picturesque Sherpa villages, forests of rhododendrons, and suspension bridges that cross deep valleys. The stunning landscapes and panoramic views of snow-capped peaks such as Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and, of course, Everest itself, create unforgettable memories along the way.

After reaching Namche Bazaar, trekkers continue to Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, and finally, Everest Base Camp. Each day’s walk brings trekkers higher into the Himalayas, with increasing altitude requiring careful attention to acclimatization. The journey ends at Everest Base Camp, where trekkers are rewarded with a close-up view of the world’s highest mountain and the surrounding peaks.

This trek is not only a physical challenge but also an immersion into the rich Sherpa culture, with stops at monasteries and opportunities to interact with the locals. While the distance is relatively short, the altitude and rugged terrain require careful planning, making this trek a true adventure for those ready to embrace its challenges.

Daily Trekking Distances on the Everest Base Camp Trek: Kilometers and Miles

Day 1: Lukla to Phakding

• Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
• Trekking Time: 3-4 hours
• Lunch Spot: Thado Koshi or Ghat

The trek from Lukla (2,860 m / 9,383 ft) begins with an easy descent toward Phakding (2,610 m / 8,563 ft), making it an ideal start to acclimatize gradually. The trail winds through vibrant villages and lush forests, crossing several suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River. You’ll pass through Cheplung and Thado Koshi, where trekkers often stop for lunch, enjoying a mix of local and international dishes.

As you approach Phakding, you’ll see terraced fields, colorful Buddhist prayer wheels, and flags signaling your arrival. This relatively short walk sets the stage for longer, more challenging days.

What to See Along the Way

• Lukla: Known as the starting point for treks to Everest Base Camp, Lukla is a lively town filled with guesthouses and shops. It is also home to one of the world’s most exciting airports, perched on a mountain ledge.
• Dudh Koshi River: The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River, named for its milky, glacier-fed waters. The river provides a picturesque backdrop throughout the journey, with its cascading waters adding a sense of serenity.
• Suspension Bridges: As you begin your descent from Lukla, you’ll cross several suspension bridges. These are an iconic feature of the trek, suspended high above the river and offering stunning views of the valley below.
• Chheplung Village: A small village just beyond Lukla, where trekkers can catch glimpses of traditional Sherpa life. The village offers a chance to interact with the local people and enjoy the views of the surrounding mountains.
• Phakding: A quiet village set along the Dudh Koshi River, Phakding is the destination for the first night. The village has a few guesthouses and a peaceful atmosphere, making it a perfect place to relax and rest before continuing further. The area is surrounded by beautiful pine forests, offering a glimpse of the landscapes ahead.

Day 2: Phakding to Namche Bazaar

• Distance: 11 km (7 miles)
• Trekking Time: 6-7 hours
• Lunch Spot: Jorsalle

This day involves crossing multiple suspension bridges, including the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge, before ascending to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m / 11,286 ft). The first half of the trail is relatively gentle, passing through Monjo and Jorsalle, where lunch is typically served.

After lunch, the trek becomes more strenuous with a steep ascent through pine forests. The climb is rewarded with the first glimpse of Mount Everest from a vantage point before reaching the bustling Namche Bazaar, the gateway to the Everest region.

What to See between Phakding and Namche Bazaar:

• Phakding Village – A picturesque village with stunning views of the surrounding hills.
• Suspension Bridge – Cross the Dudh Koshi River on a series of thrilling suspension bridges.
• Hillary Bridge – This famous bridge offers a fantastic view of the river and the surrounding landscape.
• Sagarmatha National Park Office (Manjo) – The entry point for Sagarmatha National Park where permits are checked.
• Jorsale Village – A small village at the confluence of the Dudh Koshi and Bhote Koshi rivers.
• Durbin Danda – A great spot to catch the first glimpse of Mount Everest.
• Riverside Views – Cross more suspension bridges and enjoy scenic views of rivers and valleys.
• Namche Bazaar – A bustling Sherpa town, offering views of the surrounding peaks and an energetic atmosphere.
  

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Day 3: Acclimatization Hike to Everest View Hotel and Return to Namche

• Distance: 6 km (4 miles round trip)
• Trekking Time: 3-4 hours
• Lunch Spot: Everest View Hotel

Trekkers hike to the Everest View Hotel (3,880 m / 12,729 ft) for panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and other peaks to acclimatize. The gradual ascent offers stunning vistas and insight into Sherpa culture. After a brief stop for tea or lunch at the hotel, trekkers return to Namche for a relaxed afternoon exploring the town’s markets and bakeries.

What to see during your acclimatization day at Namche Bazaar:

• Sagarmatha National Park Museum – Learn about the history, culture, and wildlife of the Everest region.
• Everest View Hotel – Enjoy panoramic views of Mount Everest and other surrounding peaks.
• Khumjung Village – A traditional Sherpa village with a chance to explore local life and culture.
• Old Buddhist Monastery (Khumjung) – Visit a historic monastery and see the famous Yeti scalp (claimed to be housed here).
• Syangboche Airport – The highest airport in the world, located above Namche Bazaar.
• Namche Monastery – A beautiful monastery offering insight into Sherpa Buddhist traditions.
• Haat Bazaar (if it’s Saturday) – A lively open-air market at Namche Bazaar, where you can buy local goods and interact with locals.

Day 4: Namche Bazaar to Tengboche

• Distance: 9 km (5.5 miles)
• Trekking Time: 5-6 hours
• Lunch Spot: Phungi Thanga

The trek to Tengboche (3,860 m / 12,664 ft) starts with a relatively easy walk before descending to the Dudh Koshi River. Lunch is often taken at Phungi Thanga, after which a steep climb leads to Tengboche. This village is renowned for its monastery, the spiritual center of the Khumbu region, and offers breathtaking views of Ama Dablam, Everest, and Nuptse.

What to see during the Namche Bazaar to Tengboche trekking day:

• Charming cliffside paths offer peaceful walks between Namche, Kynjuma, and Sanasa.
• A thrilling hanging bridge crossing the Dudh Koshi River at Funki Thanga.
• The majestic Mount Ama Dablam stands proudly in the distance.
• Thamserku—a striking peak dominating the skyline.
• Kangtega, known as the “Snow Saddle,” cast its shadow over the valley.
• The awe-inspiring Mount Everest peeking through the Himalayan range.
• Nupse, a towering guardian of the Everest region.
• Lhotse, the world’s fourth-highest peak, towering with grace.
• Rhododendron and pine forests envelop the path with fresh, natural scents.
• The peaceful Tengboche Monastery, with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.

Day 5: Tengboche to Dingboche

• Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
• Trekking Time: 5-6 hours
• Lunch Spot: Pangboche

The trail to Dingboche (4,410 m / 14,468 ft) passes through rhododendron forests and the charming village of Pangboche. After lunch, the terrain becomes more arid as you approach the Imja Valley. Dingboche offers expansive views of the Himalayan giants and is a popular spot for trekkers to rest and acclimatize.

What to see Today:

• Alpine Forest – Pleasant walk down through the forest.
• Deboche – Cross a suspension bridge and reach Deboche.
• Mountain Goat (Thar) – Spot Thar (mountain goats) along the way.
• Pangboche Village – Walk past the large Sherpa village.
• Pangboche Monastery – Visit the Pangboche Monastery.
• Somare – Enjoy a warm and fresh lunch here.
• Imja Valley – Take in the beautiful views of Imja Valley.
• Mountain Views – Get an up-close view of Ama Dablam, Khagtega, and Island Peak.

Day 6: Acclimatization Hike to Nagarjun Hill and Return to Dingboche

• Distance: 5 km (3 miles round trip)
• Trekking Time: 4-5 hours
• Lunch Spot: Back at Dingboche

The acclimatization hike to Nagarjun Hill (5,100 m / 16,732 ft) is steep but rewarding, offering incredible views of Makalu, Island Peak, and the surrounding peaks. After taking in the scenery, trekkers descend back to Dingboche for lunch and relaxation.

What to see during the Acclimatization Hike to Nagarjun Hill:

• Magical Mountain Views – Stunning panoramic views of several peaks.
• Mount Makalu – View of the fifth-highest mountain in the world.
• Tawache – Enjoy views of this beautiful mountain.
• Cholatse – See this distinct peak from the hike.
• Ama Dablam – Get a close-up view of this iconic peak.
• Island Peak – View this famous trekking peak.
• Kali Himal – Admire the views of the Kali Himal range.
• Lhotse – See the fourth-highest mountain in the world.
• Imja Valley – Take in the scenic beauty of the valley.
• Dingboche Village – Get a full view of the village from above.

Day 7: Dingboche to Lobuche

• Distance: 11 km (7 miles)
• Trekking Time: 5-6 hours
• Lunch Spot: Thukla

This day involves a gradual ascent to Lobuche (4,940 m / 16,207 ft), passing the Thukla Pass, which is adorned with memorials for climbers who lost their lives on Everest. After lunch at Thukla, the trail becomes rocky as it follows the Khumbu Glacier, offering views of towering peaks like Pumori.

What to see between Dingboche and Lobuche:

Wide Views of Everest Region Mountains: As you begin your trek, you’ll enjoy expansive views of several iconic peaks, including Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Island Peak.

Pheriche Valley and Imja River: You’ll have a great view of Pheriche Valley and the Imja River as you walk through this section.

Up-close Views of Tawache and Cholache: You’ll pass by the towering Tawache and Cholache, which offer impressive close-up views along the trail.

Mount Pumori: The towering Pumori becomes visible as you get closer to Lobuche, adding to the stunning scenery.

Suspension Bridge near Thugla: You’ll cross a suspension bridge on your way to Thugla (4,620 m), where you’ll stop for lunch.

Khumbu Memorials: After Thugla, you’ll visit Memorial Hill, where several memorial plaques honor climbers who lost their lives on Everest. This spot is a solemn and reflective part of the trek.

Breathlessness after Memorial Hill: After passing the memorials, the altitude will begin to affect you, and you may feel more breathless as you continue upward.

Up-close Views after Memorial Hill: Beyond the memorial, you’ll be treated to stunning close-up views of Mount Pumori, Changtse, Lhotse, Khumbutse, Nuptse, and a section of the Khumbu Glacier, making this stretch one of the most scenic parts of the trek.

Day 8: Lobuche to Everest Base Camp via Gorak Shep and Return to Gorak Shep

• Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles round trip)
• Trekking Time: 7-8 hours
• Lunch Spot: Gorak Shep

The trek to Gorak Shep (5,164 m / 16,942 ft) covers 4 km (2.5 miles) and takes 2-3 hours. After lunch, trekkers continue another 3 km (1.9 miles) to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m / 17,598 ft) along a rocky glacier trail. The return to Gorak Shep for an overnight stay takes about 3 hours.

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What to see from Lobuche to Everest Base Camp via Gorak Shep and back to Gorak Shep:

• Lobuche to Gorak Shep: Views of the Khumbu Glacier, panoramic views of Pumori, Lhotse, Nuputse, and Everest, and Gorak Shep with stunning views of surrounding peaks.
• Gorak Shep to Everest Base Camp: Views of Mount Everest, the Khumbu Icefall, and the South Col, with the highlight being Everest Base Camp and a close-up of Everest’s southern face.
• Return to Gorak Shep: Descending views of the Khumbu Icefall and glaciers, with panoramic views of Everest, Pumori, Lhotse, and Nuputse.

Day 9: Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar and Return to Pheriche

• Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)
• Trekking Time: 7-8 hours
• Lunch Spot: Gorak Shep or Pheriche

An early morning hike to Kala Patthar (5,545 m / 18,192 ft) provides the best sunrise views of Everest. After descending to Gorak Shep for breakfast, trekkers continue downhill to Pheriche (4,240 m / 13,910 ft).

Day 10: Pheriche to Namche Bazaar

• Distance: 22 km (13.5 miles)
• Trekking Time: 7-8 hours
• Lunch Spot: Tengboche or Phungi Thanga

The return to Namche involves a mix of descents and short climbs, retracing the scenic route through Tengboche.

Day 11: Namche Bazaar to Lukla

• Distance: 18 km (11 miles)
• Trekking Time: 7-8 hours
• Lunch Spot: Phakding

The final stretch involves a long but rewarding walk downhill to Lukla, completing the trek with a sense of accomplishment and unforgettable memories.

Everest Base Camp trek from Lukla – FAQs

How many kilometers is the trek from Lukla to Everest Base Camp?

The distance from Lukla to Everest Base Camp is approximately 65 kilometers (40 miles) one way. This can vary depending on the specific route taken.

How long does it take to trek from Lukla to Everest Base Camp?

It usually takes about 8-12 days to trek from Lukla to Everest Base Camp, depending on your pace and acclimatization schedule. Most itineraries include rest days to adjust to the altitude.

What is the total distance of the round-trip trek from Lukla to Everest Base Camp and back?

The round trip from Lukla to Everest Base Camp and back is approximately 130 kilometers (80 miles).

How many hours do you walk per day on the Lukla to Everest Base Camp trek?

On average, trekkers walk for 5-7 hours per day, covering distances of 10-15 kilometers (6-9 miles) each day. The terrain and altitude changes can make the trekking time vary.

How far is Lukla from Everest Base Camp in terms of altitude gain?

Lukla is at an altitude of 2,860 meters (9,383 feet), while Everest Base Camp sits at about 5,364 meters (17,598 feet). The trek involves a gradual ascent, reaching a higher altitude each day.

What is the difficulty level of the trek from Lukla to Everest Base Camp?

The trek is considered moderately difficult due to its altitude and challenging terrain. It requires good fitness, stamina, and acclimatization to avoid altitude sickness.

How much elevation gain is there per day from Lukla to Everest Base Camp?

Typically, trekkers gain around 300-500 meters (1,000-1,640 feet) of elevation per day. This helps in acclimatizing to the increasing altitude.

Can I complete the Lukla to Everest Base Camp trek in fewer days?

While some experienced trekkers may complete the trek in fewer days, it is recommended to take your time to avoid altitude sickness and ensure proper acclimatization, making the trek safer and more enjoyable.

How many villages do you pass through on the way from Lukla to Everest Base Camp?

On the way to Everest Base Camp, you will pass through several villages such as Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, and Gorak Shep, each offering different experiences and views of the mountains.

What is the best time to trek from Lukla to Everest Base Camp?

The best times are in the spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) months. These seasons offer the most favorable weather conditions for trekking with clear skies and moderate temperatures.

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Related Topics about Everest Trekking:

• Lukla to Phakding Trek Distance: Thrilling Start to Everest
• Everest Base Camp Trek
• Everest Base Camp vs. Gokyo Lakes Trek: Which One is Right for You?
• What should I pack for the Everest Base Camp Trek?