How Long is the Everest Base Camp Trek?
Sherkha
March 16, 2025
The Everest Base Camp Trek is more than just a hike—it's an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Himalayas, where you'll come face-to-face with the world’s tallest mountain, Mount Everest.
But before you lace up your hiking boots and pack your gear, it’s important to know one thing: how long does it take to trek to Everest Base Camp?
In this guide, we’ll answer that question and take you through the whole trek, step by step, so you can be prepared for your epic journey.
How long does it take to hike Everest Base Camp?
The Everest Base Camp Trek typically takes 16 days, including acclimatization and contingency days. The trek covers diverse landscapes, from lush valleys to high-altitude glaciers, with key highlights like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche Monastery, EBC and Kala Patthar.
A thrilling Lukla flight marks the start, and proper acclimatization ensures a safe ascent to 5,364m (17,598 ft). Discover breathtaking mountain views and Sherpa culture on this unforgettable Himalayan adventure!
Daily Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Kathmandu
Altitude: 1,300 m
Distance: No trekking today
Activities: Arrival and exploration of Kathmandu. Pre-trek preparations.
Day 2: Explore Kathmandu
Altitude: 1,300 m
Distance: No trekking today
Activities: Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath, and Boudhanath. Attend a pre-trek briefing.
Day 3: Fly to Lukla, Trek to Phakding
Altitude: Phakding (2,610 m)
Distance: 7-8 km
Ascent: +1,000 m
Descent: -230 m
Walking Time: 3-4 hours
Activities: Thrilling flight to Lukla, followed by an easy trek to Phakding along the Dudh Koshi River.
Day 4: Trek to Namche Bazaar
Altitude: Namche Bazaar (3,440 m)
Distance: 10-12 km
Ascent: +830 m
Descent: -0 m
Walking Time: 6-7 hours
Activities: Cross suspension bridges, trek through pine forests, and arrive at Namche Bazaar, the gateway to Everest.
Day 5: Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazaar
Altitude: 3,440 m
Distance: No trekking today
Activities: Rest and explore Namche. Optional hike to the Everest View Hotel (3,880 m) for panoramic mountain views.
Day 6: Trek to Tengboche
Altitude: Tengboche (3,860 m)
Distance: 10-12 km
Ascent: +420 m
Descent: -0 m
Walking Time: 5-6 hours
Activities: Pass through rhododendron forests and arrive at Tengboche, home to the famous Tengboche Monastery.
Day 7: Trek to Dingboche
Altitude: Dingboche (4,410 m)
Distance: 11-12 km
Ascent: +550 m
Descent: -0 m
Walking Time: 6-7 hours
Activities: Scenic trek with views of Ama Dablam, arriving at the village of Dingboche.
Day 8: Acclimatization Day at Dingboche
Altitude: 4,410 m
Distance: No trekking today
Activities: Rest and acclimate. Optional hike to Nangkartshang Peak (5,083 m) for incredible views.
Day 9: Trek to Lobuche
Altitude: Lobuche (4,910 m)
Distance: 6-7 km
Ascent: +500 m
Descent: -0 m
Walking Time: 4-5 hours
Activities: Trek through rocky terrain and visit the Everest Memorial.
Day 10: Gorakshep to Everest Base Camp
Altitude: Everest Base Camp (5,364 m)
Distance: 12-14 km
Ascent: +450 m
Descent: -450 m
Walking Time: 7-8 hours
Activities: Trek to Gorakshep, then continue to Everest Base Camp for the iconic photo at the foot of Everest.
Day 11: Hike to Kala Patthar, Trek to Pheriche
Altitude: Kala Patthar (5,545 m), Pheriche (4,240 m)
Distance: 12-13 km
Ascent: +405 m
Descent: -1,305 m
Walking Time: 7-8 hours
Activities: Watch the sunrise from Kala Patthar, then descend to Pheriche.
Day 12: Trek to Namche Bazaar
Altitude: Namche Bazaar (3,440 m)
Distance: 14-15 km
Ascent: +0 m
Descent: -800 m
Walking Time: 6-7 hours
Activities: Descend through forests and riversides back to Namche.
Day 13: Trek to Lukla
Altitude: Lukla (2,840 m)
Distance: 16-18 km
Ascent: +0 m
Descent: -600 m
Walking Time: 7-8 hours
Activities: Retrace your steps along the Dudh Koshi River, completing your trek at Lukla.
Day 14: Fly to Kathmandu, Farewell Dinner
Altitude: 1,300 m
Distance: No trekking today
Activities: Scenic flight back to Kathmandu and enjoy a farewell dinner.
Day 15: Contingency Day
Distance: No trekking today
Activities: Buffer day for any unforeseen delays (e.g., weather or flight).
Day 16: Depart Kathmandu
Altitude: 1,300 m
Distance: No trekking today
Activities: Transfer to the airport for your departure, concluding the Everest Base Camp adventure.
Trek Highlights & Tips
✔️ Daily Distances: Typically 7-18 km, with some days for rest and acclimatization.
✔️ Ascent & Descent: Expect gradual altitude gain with occasional descents.
✔️ Acclimatization: Key to prevent altitude sickness.
✔️ Best Time to Trek: Spring (March-May) and Autumn (Sept-Nov).
The Everest Base Camp trek is an amazing adventure! You’ll see stunning mountain views, learn about Sherpa culture, and feel super proud of yourself.
In 16 days, you'll explore the lively streets of Kathmandu, hike through different landscapes, get used to the high-altitude villages, and reach the base of the tallest mountain in the world.
The trip includes days to help you adjust to the altitude and other backup plans to keep you safe. Whether it's standing at Everest Base Camp, watching the sunrise from Kala Patthar, or meeting the friendly people of the Himalayas, this trek will give you unforgettable memories!
