If you're planning the Everest Base Camp Trek in 2026, this complete guide covers cost, itinerary, difficulty, permits, best time to go, and essential tips to help you prepare properly.
Everest Base Camp Trek Overview
- Country: Nepal
- Region: Khumbu
- Starting Point: Lukla Airport
- Maximum Elevation: 5,545 m (Kala Patthar)
- EBC Elevation: 5,364 m
- Duration: 12–14 days
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
- Accommodation: Teahouses
Everest Base Camp Trek Itinerary (14 Days Standard Route)
Here’s the classic 14-day itinerary most trekkers follow:
Day 1: Fly to Lukla (2,860 m) – Trek to Phakding
A thrilling mountain flight to Lukla, then an easy trek along the Dudh Koshi River.
Day 2: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m)
Enter Sagarmatha National Park and climb to the vibrant Sherpa town of Namche Bazaar.
Day 3: Acclimatization Day in Namche
Short hike to Everest View Hotel for your first glimpse of Everest.
Day 4: Namche to Tengboche (3,860 m)
Visit the famous Tengboche Monastery with panoramic Himalayan views.
Day 5: Tengboche to Dingboche (4,410 m)
Day 6: Acclimatization Day in Dingboche
Day 7: Dingboche to Lobuche (4,910 m)
Day 8: Lobuche to Gorak Shep – Everest Base Camp (5,364 m)
Reach the legendary Everest Base Camp beneath the Khumbu Icefall.
Day 9: Hike to Kala Patthar (5,545 m) – Trek to Pheriche
Best sunrise views of Everest.
Day 10–13: Trek back to Lukla
Day 14: Fly back to Kathmandu
Everest Base Camp Trek Cost in 2026
The cost depends on your trekking style.
Budget Trek (Independent)
USD $1,200 – $1,800
- Permits
- Flights to/from Lukla
- Teahouse accommodation
- Meals
- Guide (optional but recommended)
Standard Guided Trek
USD $1,400 – $2,500
- Licensed guide
- Porter
- Accommodation
- Domestic flights
- Permits
- Most meals
Luxury Trek
USD $3,000 – $5,500+
- Luxury lodges
- Better meals
- Helicopter return option
- Premium services
Required Permits (2026)
- Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
- Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit
Guides are increasingly encouraged for safety, and regulations may tighten in 2026.
Best Time for Everest Base Camp Trek in 2026
Spring (March–May) – BEST OVERALL
- Clear skies
- Rhododendron blooms
- Expedition season at Base Camp
- Moderate temperatures
Autumn (September–November) – MOST POPULAR
- Stable weather
- Excellent mountain visibility
- Peak trekking season
Winter (December–February)
- Fewer crowds
- Very cold
- Possible flight delays
Monsoon (June–August)
- Frequent rain
- Cloudy views
- Not recommended
Best months: April, May, October
How Difficult is the Everest Base Camp Trek?
The EBC trek is moderate to challenging, mainly due to altitude.
Challenges:
- High elevation above 5,000 m
- Risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)
- Long walking days (5–7 hours)
- Cold temperatures
You don’t need technical climbing skills, but good physical fitness is essential.
Accommodation & Food
Teahouses offer:
- Twin-sharing rooms
- Shared bathrooms
- Dining hall with stove heating
Common meals:
- Dal Bhat (rice & lentils)
- Noodles, pasta, fried rice
- Pancakes, eggs, soups
Food prices increase with altitude.
Everest Base Camp Helicopter Return Option
Many trekkers now choose the EBC Helicopter Return Trek, walking up and flying back to Kathmandu by helicopter.
Benefits:
- Saves 3–4 days
- Scenic aerial views of Everest
- Reduces physical strain
Cost addition: $900–$1,200 per person (shared flight)
Packing Essentials
- Down jacket
- Sleeping bag (-15°C recommended)
- Trekking poles
- Waterproof boots
- Layered clothing
- Sunscreen & sunglasses
Avoid overpacking — porters usually carry 10–15 kg.
Safety Tips for 2026
- Acclimatize properly
- Stay hydrated
- Avoid rapid ascent
- Purchase travel insurance (covering 6,000 m altitude + helicopter evacuation)
- Check Lukla flight schedules in advance
Everest Base Camp Trek vs Annapurna Base Camp
If you're comparing:
- EBC = Higher altitude, iconic Everest views
- ABC = Lower altitude, greener landscapes, slightly easier
EBC remains the most prestigious trek in Nepal.
Is Everest Base Camp Trek Worth It?
Absolutely.Standing at Everest Base Camp, surrounded by towering Himalayan giants, prayer flags fluttering in icy winds, and the Khumbu Icefall cracking in the distance — it’s a life-changing experience.
For 2026, with improved trekking infrastructure and evolving regulations, planning ahead will ensure a smoother journey.
Final Tips for Booking in 2026
- Book spring and autumn departures 3–6 months early
- Confirm Lukla flight logistics
- Choose licensed operators
- Consider adding travel days for weather delays