Everest Base Camp Trek By Drive

18 Days

starting from $1500

$ 1350

Grade:

Strenuous

Group Size:

Min 1 person

Transport:

Car, Jeep, Plane

Altitude:

5,545m/18,193ft

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

  • Best Price Guaranteed
  • Customizable itinerary
  • Lead by expert local guide.
  • Operating since 2011
  • Instant online booking

Highlights on Everest Base Camp Trek by Drive

  • Hike from the lower region to Kala Patthar viewpoint (5,545m) and the Everest Base Camp (5,364).
  • Avoid frequent Lukla flights and take straightforward scenery and long road routes from Kathmandu to Phaplu.
  • Spectacular view of the highest mountain peaks of the world: Mt Everest (8848.86m), Cho Oyu (8201m), and Lhotse (8516m).
  • The largest town in the Khumbu Region is Namche Bazaar.
  • The 17-century-old Tengboche monastery’s beautiful architecture and spiritual ambiance.
  • The Khumbu Glacier is the world’s highest and largest glacier in Nepal.
  • Immerse in Sherpa culture and tradition as you pass by Khumjung.
  • Trekking through Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Thrill of challenging terrain including ascent step, high passes, and suspension bridge.

Everest Base Camp Trek By Drive Overview

Driving to Everest Base Camp is the safest way to reach It compared to other trekking methods. One of Nepal’s most reliable trekking options offers the best scenery views of diverse landscapes, lush valleys, and snow-capped mountains. Do you want to experience EBC by driving rather than taking a flight? We offer the best road tour package for the classic Everest Base Camp trek.

Are you afraid of flying but want to witness the beauty of Everest? Then, the Everest Base Camp trek via road is the best option for you. This is one of the safest alternatives to flight to Lukla, which falls under the world’s most dangerous airport list. Also, there are delays and rescheduling of flights from Kathmandu to Lukla due to unpredictable weather conditions. Although traveling the road can be long and tiring, there is a low chance of rescheduling. The drive route can be a go-to if you are a trekker with a day limitation.

Also, if you want to explore the local culture and traditions of the Solukhumbu District, then strolling on the path lets you interact with locals, which may not be possible through flights. The Everest Base Camp trek by drive is the best way to explore the scenery and beauty of Nepal while experiencing landscapes, cultures, and people’s livelihoods. Likewise, this is a great way to acclimatize before getting to the base of the mighty peak Everest.

Can You Drive To Everest Base Camp Trek

There is no direct road to Everest Base Camp in Nepal, which is very popular among trekkers. The terrain is too rugged for vehicles. However, road access on the Tibet side lets you get close to Everest Base Camp. It’s a town called Tingri, approximately 100 kilometers from the Base Camp.

How can you reach Everest Base Camp by road? Here’s the proper breakdown of details:

Nepal Route:

In Nepal, the closest road access point to EBC is Jiri. After reaching Jiri, you have to climb for up to 9 to 10 days, based on the itinerary. The road is in the Everest Region and is currently under construction. However, you must know it is through the Lower Everest region, finishing at Surke Village. The place is below the Tenzing-Hillary airport in Lukla. They will never build the direct route from Jiri, as it is only popular for being the best trekking site in Nepal.

Tibet Route:

You can drive from Kathmandu to Lhasa and continue on the Friendship Highway to Tingri. Upon reaching Tingri, you will stitch on an eco-friendly bus to reach Everest Base Camp. Passing through this route, you can explore Tibetan cities and sights. Not very popular among travelers, this route is perfect if you don’t want days of trekking but want to experience EBC through the road.

A Typical Day During Mount Everest Base Camp Trek by Road

A typical day on the Everest Base Camp trek via the road begins with an early morning rise in a cozy lodge or guesthouse. After breakfast, you will embark on a scenic road journey from Kathmandu towards Tham Danda in the Everest region. You can enjoy the views while driving through towns and the countryside, stopping for lunch.

The winds take you up and down the mountains until you reach a place to spend the night. After checking in, you have time to relax or explore. Dinner is a chance to try local food before staying in the peaceful mountains.

What is the Difficulty Level of Everest Base Camp Trek?

The difficulty level of Everest Base Camp is moderate. However, it mainly depends on the route, individual fitness levels, and weather conditions. The trekking involves several days of hiking through rugged terrain, including steep ascents and descents, rocky paths, and high altitudes.

The trek also requires good physical fitness, endurance, and mental resilience to overcome altitude sickness and unpredictable weather conditions. Proper preparation, including regular exercise, altitude acclimatization, and packing appropriate gear, can help ensure a successful and enjoyable trekking experience.

Best Season for Everest Base Camp Trek in Nepal without Flight

The best time to trek Everest Base Camp without taking a flight is generally considered to be Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) month During these seasons, the weather is typically more stable, with clearer skies and milder temperatures, making for more enjoyable trekking conditions.

The weather is warmer in spring, and the rhododendron forests are in full bloom, adding vibrant colors to the landscape. Autumn offers crisp, clear days with excellent visibility, ideal for capturing breathtaking mountain views.

These seasons also coincide with the peak trekking seasons in the Everest region, so you will encounter more fellow trekkers along the trail, creating a lively and supportive atmosphere. The trails and teahouse are generally well-maintained and operational during these months, ensuring a smoother trekking experience.

Drive Vs. Flight

Flight Drive
Time Faster Slower
Scenic Experience Bird-eye views Scenic overland journey
Cost More expensive More economical
Convenience Quick and convenient Longer travel time
Cultural Experience Limited interaction Experience local culture
Flexibility Limited by flight schedule More flexible in scheduling

Shared Jeep Vs. Private Jeep

Shared jeep rides to Everest Base Camp are popular among budget-conscious travelers as they offer a cost-effective way to reach the Everest region. However, they typically follow a fixed schedule and might make multiple stops to pick up other passengers, potentially extending the travel time.

On the other hand, private jeep rides provide exclusive flexibility to customize the itinerary according to your preferences. You can choose your departure time, make stops at scenic spots for photography, and have a more personalized and comfortable experience, which can be worthwhile for those seeking convenience and privacy.

Hiring Guide and Porter

Hiring a guide for the Everest Base Camp trek by drive is highly recommended for a safe and enriching experience. Guides provide invaluable expertise on the terrain, weather conditions, and cultural insights. They also ensure proper acclimatization, which is crucial for avoiding altitude sickness. A guide can arrange accommodations, navigate trails, and offer assistance in emergencies.

Additionally, porters are essential for trekkers to Everest Base Camp, carrying heavy loads and easing the journey so trekkers can focus on enjoying the experience while navigating challenging terrain. Hiring a porter supports local communities and ensures a safer trekking adventure.

Itinerary

01 DAY

Arrive in Kathmandu

One of our office staff will receive you from Kathmandu Airport. Traditionally, we greet you with a fresh garland and then take you to your hotel. During the day, you can either rest in the hotel or explore the beautiful city of Kathmandu. Also, exploring Thamel during the night can be a game changer.

02 DAY

Drive from Kathmandu to Phaplu – 11 hours drive

Early in the morning, your road journey starts with a packed breakfast. Our guide will receive you early morning, and the drive will take you to Phaplu. The journey will take approximately 10-11 hours and will cover a distance of 270 kilometers. You will get a scenic local Jeep ride. The road is well-established, but you must encounter off-road somewhere.

03 DAY

Drive to Tham Danda - 7 hours drive

On this day, you will drive from Phaplu to Tham Danda, which typically takes 7 hours. The journey towards Everest Base Camp offers a beautiful view of the Nepalese countryside and rural life. Along the road, there are small teahouses and eateries where you will stop for lunch. The road from Phaplu to Tham Danda is unpaved and bumpy off-road drive.

04 DAY

Trek to Chauri Kharka - 6 hours trek

Tham Danda is the last drive location. After a night at Tham Danda, your real trekking journey starts. The trek usually takes 6 hours, depending on your pace and the trail conditions. It’s going to be a beautiful hike with the best scenery views. You will make your next stop at Chauri Danda before moving forward to EBC.

05 DAY

Trek to Monjo – 4 hours trek

The next day, you will forward it to Monjo from Chauri Kharka. It’s another scenic day of hiking that takes you to stunning landscapes and charming villages. The trek takes around 4 hours, and you will pass through rivers and forests while catching a glimpse of different wildlife. Monjo will be your resting place for the night.

06 DAY

Trek to Namche Bazaar (3440m) - 5 hours trek

Your trek from Monjo to Namche Bazar will take you through pretty villages like Ghat, and Jorsalle. You will walk along the Dudh Koshi River and cross a suspension bridge. In Monjo, you will enter Sagarmatha National Park and then go to Namche Bazar. Namche is a busy town with hotels, shops, and an amazing Everest view.

07 DAY

Acclimatization Day - Hike To Everest View Hotel - 3-4 hours hike

On this day, you will take a day break and spend a day acclimatizing to the high altitude. Your activity for the day is to hike to Everest Hotel View. Upon reaching the hotel, you can enjoy our morning with the best Everest views. Located at a higher altitude than Namche Bazaar, it provides an excellent opportunity for acclimatization.

08 DAY

Trek to Tengboche (3860m) - 5 hours trek

After breakfast in Namche, you start your trek to Tengboche. We will see beautiful views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Nuptse during the trial. The trail has continuous ups and downs, passing by Kyanjuma, Sanasa, Phunki Tenga, and other small villages. After a five-hour trek through the pine forest, you will finally reach Tengboche.

09 DAY

Trek to Dingboche (4410m) - 5 hours trek

Don’t miss the beautiful sunrise view over Ama Dablan before leaving Tengboche. After a hot morning breakfast, you will be trekking towards Dingboche. It is one of the high-altitude Sherpa’s settlements. The trail leads along the Glacier River and passes through small villages, mani walls, prayer flags, and prayer wheels until you reach the destination.

10 DAY

Trek to Lobuche (4910m) - 5 hours trek

This 5-hour trek offers stunning views of peaks like Cholatse and Tawache on the left. You will then step towards the foot of the Khumbu Glacier and have your lunch at the teahouse at Dugla. The path then climbs gently along the glacier to eventually reach the cluster of houses at Lobuche.

11 DAY

Trek to Gorakshep (5180m) - Everest Base Camp (5364m) and back to Gorakshep - 8 hours trek

Today is the most exciting day of your journey. It is a long and hectic day for you as you have to walk 8 hours to reach EBC and return to Gorakshep. You will hike to Everest Base Camp from Gorakshep village, surrounded by stunning views. Reaching EBC is a surreal experience, with the world’s tallest peaks in sight. After spending time there, you’ll return to Gorakshep for a good night’s rest.

12 DAY

Hike up to Kala Patthar (5545m), then trek back to Pheriche (4210m) - 7 hours trek

From Gorakshep, you will hike to Kala Patthar early in the morning. The place offers a stunning sunrise view and mountain peaks such as Everest, Pumori, Nuptse, Khumbetse, and many more. After spending some time there, you will trek back to Gorakshep and have breakfast. Starting your descent, the hike to Pheriche will take you through rugged terrain.

13 DAY

Trek to Namche (3440m) - 7 hours trek

You will retrace your steps and trek back to Namche, which will take about 7-8 hours from Pheriche. Once you arrive, you will stay overnight at Namche’s bustling and hustling village town with full board meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You can enjoy some beers and relevant comfort while you chill out here. Finally, you will spend the night at a lodge in Namche.

14 DAY

Trek to Chauri Kharka (2535m) – 7 hours trek

Your trek starts early in the morning. The trail offers stunning views of mountains like Everest and Ama Dablam. You will pass through small villages like Orsha and Shomare. The path you encounter is mainly rocky and steep during this time. You will walk beside the Imja River. Chauri Kharka is a peaceful place to relax and enjoy the mountain views.

15 DAY

Trek to Tham Danda - 5 hours trek

Following the same route to the descent below, you will trek to Tham Danda from Chauri Kharka. Today is your last day of hiking. After breakfast in Chaurikharka, you will trek to Surke, which will take around 45 to an hour. The trail then descends to Tham Danda for the following hour before continuing to the Khari La. After entering the tea house in Tham Danda, your guide will finalize the jeep journey to Phaplu for the next day.

16 DAY

Drive to Phaplu – 7 hours drive

On the 16th day, you will leave Tham Danda and head towards the main road that connects Phaplu. Along the trail, you will pass through charming villages and lush green hillsides and maybe even catch a glimpse of local life; the road conditions can vary, with some sections being bumpy and unpaved. You reached the end of our journey in this small village, surrounded by mountains and filled with friendly local people.

17 DAY

Drive back to Kathmandu – 11 hours drive

We travel from Phaplu to Kathmandu in the morning by local jeep, passing through the Solukhumbu District. The Drive is quite long, taking around 10 hours. However, the views are worth the long drive. As you approach Kathmandu, you gradually descend from the mountain and enter the bustling city. It’s when your journey finally comes to an end.

18 DAY

Departure from Nepal

On your last day in Kathmandu, after breakfast, our vehicle and escorts will be on standby to take you to the international airport three hours before your scheduled flight home. Meeting you at Glorious Himalaya has been a great honor, and we wish you a safe journey home. We will cherish the wonderful times we spent together and hope to see you again someday.

Price Includes

  • All the airport pick-ups and drop-offs are by private vehicles.
  • Total 17 nights of accommodations on this tour.(2 nights of 3-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu city with breakfast.) (15 nights of twin-sharing basis local lodges accommodations with breakfast, lunch & dinner while on the trek.)
  • 3 Meals per day while on the trek in the Everest region (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
  • We serve seasonal fruits every day after your dinner during the trek.
  • Experienced and government-certified trekking guide for the trek.
  • Supporting porters to carry your belongings during the trek. (1 porter for 2 clients)
  • An assistant guide for a group above 10 people.
  • Salary, accommodations, transport, meals, and accidental insurance for all our trekking guides and porters.
  • Local jeep drive from Kathmandu to Phaplu and Phaplu to Tham Danda.
  • Local jeep drive in return from Tham Danda to Phaplu and then to Kathmandu
  • All the necessary paperwork and trekking permits for the trek.
  • Emergency helicopter rescue service in case of health issues while on the trek. (In this case, you should have travel insurance)
  • Rain protection duffel bag and sleeping bag to use for the trek. (provided on request)
  • A comprehensive first aid medical kit and an oximeter to check your pulse and oxygen level while on the trek are useful for high-altitude sickness.
  • Trip achievement certificate after the successful trip.
  • All government taxes and company service charges.
  • In the end, we offer a Nepalese cuisine farewell dinner in Kathmandu with a cultural dance performance.
  • Pre-meeting at Kathmandu before the trek.

Price Excludes

  • International airfares.
  • Nepal entry visa fees. Visit the link for the Nepal tourist visa information.
  • Your extra expenses include WIFI, a hot shower, and battery charging while on the trek.
  • Alcoholic beverages and cold drinks during the trek.
  • Your personal trekking equipment and travel insurance.
  • Gratitude to the trekking guides and porters.

Useful Information to Trek to the Everest Base Camp

If you are considering trekking to EBC, here is some additional information that can be useful for you.

Accommodation

Trekking with you, we will typically stay in teahouses along the route. They offer basic amenities with dormitory-style rooms or simple twin rooms. Some teahouses have hot showers and other features like Wi-Fi and electricity. The more you climb towards a higher elevation, the more basic your amenities become. However, the price of accommodation gets higher as you move forward. Booking the travel package with us, we will consider all these elements and arrange the best available hotels for your comfortable stay.

Equipment and Gear

Investing in high-quality products can be a good option for seasoned travelers. However, renting might be the best option for trekking for one. Here is the list of gear and essentials you can take if you are trekking to Everest Base Camp.

  • Layering clothing
  • Waterproof and windproof jacket
  • Trekking pants
  • Sturdy, ankle support boot
  • Comfortable and spacious backpack
  • Sleeping bag
  • Trekking poles
  • Headlamp or flashlights
  • Durable water bottle
  • First-aid-kit
  • Toiletries
  • Sunglasses and sunscreens

Meals

When booking with us, we offer you three meals daily: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner. We arrange everything, and we have the meals basically at the place where we make our stay. Our breakfast menu includes pedigree, egg, bread, and morning tea or coffee. Lunch meals include Dal, Bhat, and vegetables. Similarly, dinner options include Dal, Bhat, vegetables, or noodles. There is not much variety of food offered. However, the provided food is tasty enough and offers the Nepali local taste.

Required Permits

Whenever you are trekking toward Everest Base Camp, you require two major permits:

  • Khumbu Pasanglhamu Rural Municipality Permit
  • Sagarmatha National Park Permit

We provide these two permits upon submitting your documents, such as your passport and photos. You do not have to pay an additional charge because the package cost includes the permit fees.

Note: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months and obtain a Nepal visa beforehand.

Fitness and Experience Requirements

This is a moderate to challenging level trek. You should be comfortable hiking for several hours with a backpack in varied terrain. Thus, being fit and possessing stamina add a plus to your journey. Also, having prior experience with any trekking route can be beneficial. Make sure you are physically active and consult doctors before trekking if you have any prior medical conditions.

Travel Insurance

One essential element for trekking in Everest Camp is travel insurance. Make sure you get travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage, especially if you plan to go on high-altitude trekking. Travel insurance for an Everest Base Camp Trek may cover events such as medical emergencies, evacuation and repatriation, interruption or cancellation of a trip, lost or stolen luggage, and personal liability.

Safety and Security

If you are trekking towards high-altitude places, the major concern is altitude sickness. Listen to your body, ascend slowly, and be aware of the symptoms. To protect our valuable customers, we offer the best acclimatization days with rest and short hikes. This helps you to adjust to the change in altitude. Also, be mindful of potential weather changes and follow your guide’s instructions.

Guided or Solo Trek

Decide if you prefer a guided trek or a solo adventure. Guided trek offers support and expertise from a guide, perfect for first-timers or those seeking a social experience. Similarly, solo travel offers more personal experience but requires more planning and experience. As of the new updated rule of April 2024, solo trekkers in Nepal also require a guide, although this rule does not apply to Everest Base Camp yet.

Money Exchange

Whenever you are trekking to Nepal, bring a mix of cash: Nepalese rupees and US Dollars. You can exchange USD or EURO for NPR at the airport or money exchange counters in Kathmandu. Although USD is widely accepted for larger payments like trek costs, you will get a better exchange rate using NPR for smaller purchases on the trek. ATMs are not readily available on the trek route in Nepal.

Booking and Payment Process

If you are happy with our quote and availability, you can proceed with booking. We require a deposit (generally 15-00% of the total cost) to secure the spot. Payment methods include bank transfers, online payment portals, or credit cards. Once we confirm your deposit, we will send you the pre-departure information, including a packing list, and e-receipt. After that, you need to make a final payment of the remaining cost upon your arrival or before the trek departure.

 

Benefits of Trekking with Us

Booking your EBC trek with us offers a potential advantage for a successful and unforgettable experience. We have a team of experienced guides who can navigate the trails safely while sharing their knowledge of the region. Our 95% of previous customers rated us 5-star reviews on TripAdvisor, which suggests our focus on customer satisfaction. We also offer pre-trip planning options for our customers at a reasonable package price. Book with Glorious Himalaya if you want successful training with an experienced guide and porter, pre-trip planning, and a budget-friendly option.

Trip (FAQs) Frequently Asked Questions

How much luggage can I bring to the trek?

For an Everest Base Camp trek, we recommend you bring a duffel bag and a day pack combined, which is 15 kg. If you carry more than that, our porter may find it difficult to carry them.

Can you do Everest Base Camp without training?

Yes, you can trek Everest Base Camp without training, with moderate difficulty. However, ensure you are physically fit and have the stamina to climb.

What is the age limit for Everest Base Camp?

There is no official Everest base camp trek age limit, but the trek minimum age should be 10. Mount Everest base camp trek age limit is for the health concerns of trekkers.

What is the most difficult part of Everest Base Camp?

Located at 5,420 meters, the Cho La Pass is one of the most challenging sections of the Everest Base Camp trekking trail. This high mountain pass has gained a reputation for its steep slopes and icy conditions.

Is Base Camp crowded?

Yes, the Everest Base Camp trek is quite crowded, especially during the peak trekking seasons. The trek’s popularity, combined with Mount Everest’s iconic status, attracts many trekkers from around the world.

Read More FAQs

18 Days starting from $1500

$ 1350

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