Everest Base Camp is one of the most popular trekking destinations in Nepal. Some might consider the EBC trek easy, but there are specific problems you may face. This guide will discuss the top 10 problems on Everest base camp trek.
Everest Base Camp Trek takes you closer to Mount Everest, the highest mountain peak in the world. The base camp lies at an altitude of 5364m. During your trek, you can visit many unique attractions, such as Lukla, Namche Bazaar, Sagarmatha National Park, Sherpa Museum, and Kala Patthar.
There are many unique places to explore during your trek, but it is also full of problems and challenges. So, in this guide, we will give you ten issues you will face during your trek and the ways to reduce them.
Top 10 Problems You May Face During Everest Base Camp Trek
1. Lukla Flight Delays or Cancellations
One of the most common problems you will face during your Everest Base Camp Trek is flight cancels or delays to and from the Lukla Airport. Lukla Airport is a popular airport in Lukla, also called Tenzing-Hillary Airport. It is one of the most challenging airports worldwide because of its narrow and short runway space. Many people often face problems with flight cancellations or delays during their stay in Lukla. Here are a few of the reasons for it.
Unpredictable Weather: Lukla Airport lies at an elevation of over 2800m at the heart of the Himalayas. At that altitude, one common thing is the rapid changes in the weather, especially during monsoon season or winter. There are constant unsafe flying conditions like high winds, rain, snow, and fog, which might be the reason for flight delays and cancellations.
Short Runway: Another primary reason for flight delays and cancellations at Lukla Airport is its short runway. Due to the short runway, landing and taking off are tricky for pilots, especially during peak seasons when multiple flights arrive and depart from the airport.
Limited Instrumentation: Lukla Airport is familiar to passengers traveling to the Everest Base Camp. However, it doesn’t have advanced technology. The navigation and instrument landing systems are outdated, so pilots must depend only on visual cues. Hence, problems like weather or visibility issues mean the planes are often delayed or canceled.
Priority Flights: Due to all the above problems, flights are often prioritized, meaning the flights that consist of medical supplies, food supplies, patients, doctors, etc, are the first to board the plane. Hence, if you are a passenger looking to board a plane that doesn’t fall under the priority plane, you might have to wait a few extra hours.
Safety First: Airlines and authorities in Nepal prioritize passenger safety above all else. Flights will be delayed or canceled if conditions are deemed unsafe to prevent accidents.
Some valuable tips to reduce the risk of flight delays or cancellations
To mitigate the risk of flight delays or cancellations when traveling to Lukla during your Everest Base Camp Trek, consider the following tips:
Flexible Schedule: Build some extra days into your trek itinerary to account for potential delays. This buffer can help you stay on track even if your initial flight is canceled.
Local Information: Consult with your trekking agency or guide, who will have up-to-date information about flight conditions and can make necessary arrangements.
Early Morning Flights: Early morning flights tend to have better weather conditions, so try to book flights scheduled for the morning.
Travel Insurance: Ensure comprehensive travel insurance covers flight delays and cancellations. This can help you recoup some of the costs incurred due to delays.
Maintain Flexibility: Be prepared for possible schedule changes and be adaptable to your plans.
Opt for a Helicopter flight: Regular helicopter flights provide convenience and flexibility. Prices for a one-way helicopter flight from Kathmandu to Lukla typically range from $500 to $800 per person, depending on demand, group size, and weather conditions. Private charters cost USD 2500 and are also available for a more personalized experience. While these prices may fluctuate, the convenience of reaching Lukla swiftly and safely via helicopter makes it a popular choice for trekkers and adventurers.
2. Harsh Weather Conditions
The weather in the Everest region is very dynamic and unpredictable., During certain seasons, like Spring, it tends to remain somewhat stable; however, in other seasons, it constantly changes. One moment, you are staring at the bright sun, and another moment, the dark clouds of rainfall are forming over you. Furthermore, there is a constant temperature shift, snowstorms, blizzards, etc. These harsh weather conditions also increase the risk of natural disasters like floods, landslides, and avalanches.
3. Physical Demands
Although some consider Everest Base Camp Trek easy, it is still physically demanding. The average duration of the base camp trek is between 14-17 days. You have to trek for about seven to eight hours per day. Furthermore, the terrains are also rugged as you have to pass through different challenging trails and terrains.
Hence, to make your trek less demanding, you must participate in improving your physical fitness. Focusing on strength, cardiovascular, and breathing exercises would be best. You can also hire guides and porters to make your trek less strenuous.
4. Altitude Sickness
Perhaps the most notorious challenge on the Everest Base Camp Trek is altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS). As you ascend to higher elevations, the air becomes thinner, making it harder for your body to get enough oxygen. Symptoms of AMS include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue.
To mitigate the risk of altitude sickness, it’s essential to acclimatize properly by taking rest days at specific elevations, staying hydrated, and following the guidance of experienced guides. Medications like Diamox can also help alleviate symptoms. Additionally, listen to your body; if you experience severe AMS symptoms, it’s crucial to descend to lower altitudes immediately.
5. Common Accommodation and Limited Facilities
Accommodation along the Everest Base Camp Trek consists mainly of tea houses and lodges, which can be essential in terms of amenities. Rooms are often small and shared, and bathrooms and showers may not meet Western standards.
Bring your toiletries, a sleeping bag, and a quick-drying towel to manage expectations. Be prepared for limited shower opportunities and cold showers at higher altitudes. Remember that this trek focuses on natural beauty and cultural experiences rather than luxury accommodations.
6. Poor Connectivity
Remote Himalayan villages have limited or poor access to the internet and mobile networks, which can be frustrating for trekkers who rely on constant connectivity.
To overcome this challenge, inform your loved ones about your trek plans, carry a satellite phone for emergencies, and embrace the opportunity to disconnect from the digital world. Enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty of the region without the distractions of the virtual one.
7. Trail Congestion
The popularity of the Everest Base Camp Trek means that the trails can become crowded during peak trekking seasons. This congestion can slow your progress and detract from the solitude and serenity you may expect in the mountains.
To minimize the impact of trail congestion, consider trekking during the off-season when there are fewer tourists. Additionally, start your trek early in the morning to avoid the rush of trekkers on the trail.
8. Expensive Food Items
The Everest Base Camp trek presents a unique challenge regarding expensive food. Due to the remote and high-altitude location of the trek, all supplies, including food, must be transported by porters or yaks. This logistical difficulty, coupled with the limited availability of resources in the harsh terrain, leads to a significant increase in food prices as one ascends toward the base camp. Trekkers often pay exorbitant prices for essential items like bottled water, snacks, and hot meals. This high-cost strains travelers’ budgets and raises concerns about the environmental impact of importing goods to a fragile ecosystem. As the popularity of the Everest Base Camp trek continues to grow, finding sustainable solutions to address the expensive food problem becomes increasingly important to ensure the preservation of this iconic trekking destination.
9. Unhealthy Meat on Trek
For various reasons, avoiding unhealthy meats on the Everest trek is a prudent choice. Firstly, the trek’s high altitude and physical demands require a diet that promotes optimal health and digestion. Unhealthy meats, with their high fat and processing levels, can lead to discomfort and hinder acclimatization. Secondly, embracing a vegetarian or lean protein-focused diet reduces the environmental impact of the trek, as transporting and preserving meat products at such altitudes can be logistically challenging and ecologically taxing. Lastly, local teahouses along the trail offer delicious and nutritious vegetarian options that allow trekkers to enjoy the journey while making responsible dietary choices.
10. Mule and Yak can create some challenges on the trail
Mule and yak caravans have been a common sight along Nepal’s Everest Base Camp trek. These animals transport goods and supplies to the various villages and tea houses along the trail, as there are no roads or vehicles in many parts of the trekking route.
While mule and yak caravans are essential for transporting heavy loads, they can sometimes create challenges for trekkers. Here are some potential issues associated with them:
Trail Congestion: Mule and yak caravans can occupy a significant portion of the narrow trekking trails, making it challenging for trekkers to pass by them. This can result in congestion, especially in sections with steep ascents or descents.
Dust and Animal Waste: The caravans can stir up dust on the trails, which may cause discomfort for trekkers, especially those with respiratory issues. Additionally, the animals may leave waste on the trail, which can be unsightly and unpleasant.
Safety Concerns: Trekkers may need to step off the trail to make way for the animals. This can be risky in areas with steep drop-offs or unstable terrain.
Noise and Disturbance: The bells and calls of the mule and yak herders can be loud and disrupt the peaceful atmosphere of the trek.
It’s important to note that these animals are an integral part of the local economy and culture in the Everest region, and they provide a vital means of transporting supplies to remote areas. While they can create challenges for trekkers, being respectful and patient is essential when encountering mule and yak caravans on the trail.
Conclusion
Hence, you may face a few problems during your Everest Base Camp Trek. Everest Base Camp Trek is quite popular and commercial in Nepal, so there are more services and facilities than others. For some experienced trekkers, the EBC track might be easy, but for some beginners, the trek will provide some challenge.
We have described the problems and challenges you can face and how you will deal with them. Packing essential items, trekking at ideal times, and hiring guides and porters are simple tips to follow and reduce your trek challenges.
