9 Facts About the Everest Base Camp Trek
Yawan ShresthaReaching EBC is more than just a journey to the foot of the world’s highest mountain. It is an experience for a lifetime, but the adventure is incomplete without knowing these interesting 9 facts about the Everest Base Camp trek.
The trek itself is full of surprises—small settlements clinging to the brink of cliffs, and a hotel at 3,880m.
Whether you’re a hiker, a dreamer, or simply someone interested in Everest, consider embarking on the Everest Base Camp Trek. Here are 9 facts about the Everest Base Camp Trek, an adventure of a lifetime.
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9 Facts About the Everest Base Camp Trek
1. Lukla – The Most Dangerous Airport in the World
You commence the Everest adventure with a flight to Tenzing-Hillary Airport in Lukla, an airport with a reputation for hair-raising landings. Why not? The runway ends at a sheer drop above the valley below, so it is only 527 meters long. There’s no room for second tries—pilots have to be exact.
Landing here is itself a thrilling experience. One of the most difficult runways for pilots, given the strong winds, fickle weather, and the elevation, is there. But after you land, the adrenaline rush sets the ideal tone for the journey ahead. If you want to know more about the Lukla Airport, do read our blog.
2. Namche Bazaar – The Unofficial Capital of the Khumbu Region
Namche Bazaar represents the unofficial capital of the Khumbu region. The pulse of the Everest area beats out of Namche Bazaar. At 3,440m, it is the last big town before going further into the range. From trekking gear stores to bakeries to relaxing teahouses and an Irish pub—yes, a pub at 3,440m—this busy Sherpa village offers everything.
It is in addition an important acclimatization point. Spend one more day here to acclimate to the altitude and tour nearby sites like Everest View Hotel. Namche has a weekly market every Saturday where vendors from Tibet and adjacent communities sell their wares.
3. Everest View Hotel – The Highest 5-Star Hotel in the World
Picture yourself at 3,880m sipping coffee with Everest straight ahead. Famous for their stunning panoramic sights of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam, the Everest View Hotel. Known as the world’s highest-altitude hotel, it is a favored acclimatization day trek from Namche Bazaar.
Though the path to the hotel is rugged, the terrace offers an amazing vista once you arrive. Many hikers pause for a hot drink and to take in the Himalayan splendor before their trip resumes.
4. Tengboche Monastery – The Spiritual Core of the Himalayas
The largest monastery in the Khumbu area, Tengboche Monastery is nestled at an altitude of 3,867 meters. This monastery provides a serene and otherworldly encounter with Everest rising in the background.
When the monks intone holy Buddhist chants, filling the air with rather spiritual energy, hikers frequently attend in the course of the morning or evening prayers. Trekking in November would allow you to see the vivid Mani Rimdu Festival, a Buddhist festival packed with masked dances and religious rites.
5. Gorakshep
Gorakshep is the final inhabited stop before Everest Base Camp at 5,164m. Specially intended for hikers bound for Everest’s base camp, this little, tough village stands alone. This is the point at which you will drop your backpack, get some food, and then do the last push to EBC at 5,364m.
Also, from here, every step takes work, so be warned: the air is sparse and frigid. You can also climb Kala Patthar (5,545m) for some of the most excellent views of Mount Everest—better than those at base camp itself!
6. Sagarmatha National Park – The Highest UNESCO Heritage Site
Sagarmatha National Park is situated at an altitude of 2,845m to over 8,848m, and located in Solu Khumbu district of eastern Nepal. It is one of the oldest and highest National parks in Nepal. Sagarmatha National Park is home to various rare wildlife like Himalayan tahrs, snow leopards, and red pandas.
The park also preserves the delicate Himalayan ecosystem, which includes centuries-old rhododendron forests, glacial rivers, and deep ravines. Before legitimately entering the park, hiker will have to go through the entry point in Monjo.
7. Gokyo Lake – The Highest Freshwater Lake System
Everest Base Camp isn’t the only spectacular destination in this region. Nearby, at 4,700m–5,000m, lies the Gokyo Lake system—the highest freshwater lake system in the world. The shimmering blue waters against the backdrop of snowy peaks create an otherworldly sight.
Yes, you heard it right! The Gokyo lake is one unmissable highlight of the Everest region. The blue water reflecting the glistening peak is best thing to observe from Gokyo Ri.
Trekkers often combine the EBC trek with the Gokyo Ri trek, adding extra days to cross the Cho La Pass (5,420m) for an epic circuit. If you have the time and stamina, Gokyo is worth every step.
8. There Are Two Everest Base Camps
Although most individuals believe there is just one Everest Base Camp, there are actually two: one in Nepal (South Base Camp at 5,364m) and one in Tibet (North Base Camp at 5,150m). Trekkers hike to the Nepal Base Camp, where climbers set up before the summit.
One can drive to the Tibetan Base Camp; there is no need for trekking. The base camp is located in China’s Tibet Autonomous Region on the northern side of Everest.
Visiting the fabled South Base Camp—the starting site for some of the most fearless mountaineers in history—will be your destination if you are trekking to EBC in Nepal.
9. The World’s Highest Cafe
Amazingly enough, the Everest region sports a cafe at crazy elevations. Known as the “World’s Highest Bakery Cafe,” the world’s highest cafe is situated at an altitude of 5,165 meters in Lobuche.
From a barista serving you hot coffee to a wide range of bakery selection you will find everything in this cafe. You will have a pleasant experience of sipping coffee with the most majestic view of the towering snow-capped peaks in the background.
This bakery cafe serves new cakes, pies, and pastries which is something you won’t be expecting at this elevation. A piece of warm apple pie here seems heaven after several days of dal bhat and plain teahouse dinners. And that too with a view, isn’t it amazing?
In addition, you will also have a chance to enjoy documentary movie night on the top.
Final Thoughts
More than simply a stroll to the base of the tallest mountain, the Everest Base Camp Trek offers a trip filled with history, a range of cultures, adventure, and severe scenery. Every stage of this journey—from dangerous airports and old monasteries to high-altitude lakes and bakeries—provides a memorable experience.
Contemplating a hike to Everest Base Camp? Well, then don’t think too much, the adventure and ambiance of Everest region is waiting on you. Be ready for rare views, thin air, and recollections to last a lifetime. And if you enjoyed these 9 facts about the Everest Base Camp trek, hurry up right now.
Don’t stop being adventurous!
FAQs
Expand AllWhat is the Everest Base Camp Trek?
The Everest Base Camp trek is one of the finest treks that leads you to the base of the world’s highest peak Mount Everest.
How long does it take to complete the Everest Base Camp Trek?
The Everest Base Camp trek usually takes 15 days, starting with an exhilarating flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. However, the trek duration might vary depending on your chosen route and the packages you booked.
Exploring the EBC circuit through Gokyo Lake, Gokyo-ri, and Ngozumpa Glacier might take up to 17 days, whereas including the three-pass trek in this expedition might take up to 19 days.
How high is Everest Base Camp?
Everest Base Camp is situated at an elevation of 5,364 meters (17,598 ft) above sea level.
Is it true you can see Mount Everest from base camp?
No, you cannot view the Mount Everest from the base camp.
What is the success rate of the Everest Base Camp Trek?
The Everest Base Camp Trek has a success rate of 90 percentage.
How many trekkers visit Everest Base Camp each year?
About 40,000 to 50,000 trekkers visit Everest Base Camp each year.
What is the best time to do the Everest trek?
The ideal times for Everest Base Camp trekking are the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. The weather is stable, and there are clear skies and moderate temperatures during these times.
What permits are required for the Everest trek?
You need to get two permits for Everest Base Camp trekking: a Sagarmatha National Park Permit and a. You can obtain these permits in Kathmandu or Lukla if you’re flying there.
Is the Everest trek dangerous?
The Everest Base Camp trek is relatively safe. You should still follow the safety guidelines and stay on the marked trails. You also need to be cautious when changing weather conditions. If you experience health issues, it’s crucial to inform your guide or fellow trekkers for assistance.
What animals can you see during the Everest trek?
You can see variety of animals such as Himalayan tahr, snow leopards, red pandas, cheetahs, musk deers, etc. during the Everest trek.
What are the major villages along the Everest trek route?
The major villages along the Everest trek route are Phakding, Lukla, Namche Bazaar, Dingboche, Tengboche, and Gorak Shep.
What is the highest point reached during the Everest Base Camp trek?
The highest point reached during the Everest Base Camp trek is Kala Patthar which rests at an altitude of 5,643 meters (18,514 feet).
Do you need a guide for the Everest Base Camp Trek?
Yes, you need a guide for the Everest Base Camp Trek.
Are there ATMs or Wi-Fi on the Everest trek?
Yes, there are ATMs or Wi-Fi on the Everest trek.
What type of accommodation is available along the route?
While you have the option of standard, three-star, and five-star accommodation in Kathmandu, the options might be restricted on the trekking route. You will most likely find tea houses with clean rooms along the route. However, some major stops along the route, like Namche, Lukla, Phakding, Deboche, and Thame, do have luxury lodges that provide all amenities.
And yes, it is possible to get private rooms or rooms with attached bathrooms, but you will have to pay an extra charge.
What kind of food is available during the Everest trek?
The guesthouses and teahouses primarily serve Nepali, Tibetan, and Sherpa cuisines, including Rice, Pulses, Bread, Noodles, soup, Pasta, and Pastries. You will also get an option of drinks and continental cuisine.
How much does it cost to do the Everest trek?
The Everest trek cost ranges from USD 1,200 to USD 4,500.
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