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The Everest Base Camp Trek map is crucial for getting detailed information about your journey. If you are considering taking this adventurous and popular trek of Nepal, you will need the map for the EBC Trek.
The Everest Base Camp Trek takes you on a beautiful journey to the Everest region of Nepal. It is an opportunity to explore the base camp of Mount Everest, the world’s highest mountain, at 5364 meters. Its classic and scenic trail takes you through dense forests, alpine meadows, Sherpa and Tibetan settlements, rushing rivers, cascading waterfalls, glaciers, and icefalls. Moreover, the first people to conquer Mount Everest, Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa, also trekked on this classic route.
Aside from the classic route, there are several other alternative routes to Everest Base Camp. In this article, we will provide a breakdown of the Everest Base Camp Trek and discuss alternative routes. So, make sure you read until the end!
Table of Contents
Everest Base Camp Trek Routes
The classic trail of Everest Base Camp Trek covers 53 km in one way and has a total distance of 106 km. It usually takes 7 to 12 days to complete the entire journey. You will begin your journey with a scenic flight to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. Then, you will slowly start hiking on the uneven and diverse terrain of the Everest region.
You will trek through pristine subtropical forests of rhododendrons, oaks, and firs to reach Phakding village. The trail goes alongside the Dudh Koshi River. From here, you will begin upstream trekking and through Sagarmatha National Park to reach the Sherpa capital of Namche Bazaar. The village is a crucial acclimatization stop, and you can take a side excursion to Khumjung and Khunde village.
You will again ascend upstream from Namche along the Dudh Koshi River. After a steep hike past the beautiful Tengboche village, you will reach Debuche village. The subtropical forest trail changes to forests of conifers as you begin climbing to rocky terrains. Before arriving at Dingboche, you will trek past the Pangboche village and numerous mani walls. The village of Dingboche is another crucial acclimatization stop. You can take a short excursion to Nangkartshang Peak from here.
After a rest day at Dingboche, you will start climbing towards Lobuche. En route, you will trek past Thukla village, where you can see Climber’s memorial park. You will leave Lobuche village and hike uphill along the Lobuche Glacier and Khumbu Glacier to Gorakshep. From here, you will begin your ascend to the Everest Base Camp. You will have time to explore the base camp before returning to Gorakshep. Similarly, you will also take a short hike to Kala Patthar from the village before descending to Pheriche.
From Pheriche, you will descend towards the Imja River and then to the Dudh Koshi River. You will retrace your step back to Namche Bazaar and then to Lukla. The classic trail of Everest Base Camp will conclude after reaching Lukla.
Alternative Routes To Everest Base Camp Trek
There are several alternative routes to Everest Base Camp. These alternative trails are equally adventurous and thrilling. Likewise, the trekking trails are also equally scenic. Likewise, they offer spectacular views of the mountain panoramas and surrounding landscapes. Here are the popular alternative routes of Everest Base Camp Trek:
Everest Three Passes Trek
The Everest Three Passes Trek is a challenging venture that takes you to the heart of the Everest region. The trek begins from Lukla and goes through Phakding and Namche Bazaar. Then, the trail diverts towards Thame village. You will follow the trail to Lumde, Gokyo Lake, Thaknak, Dzongla, and Gorakshep. En route, you will cross the three high mountain passes of Renjo La (5360 m), Cho La Pass (5420 m), and Kongma La Pass (5535 m). From Gorakshep, you will ascend to Everest Base Camp. Then, you will trek on the classic trail of Everest Base Camp back to Lukla.
Gokyo Lake Trek
Gokyo Lake Trek is another beautiful alternative route for the Everest Base Camp. The trekking routes take you to the remote and off-beat trails of the Everest region. Everest Base Camp trek is usually busy as it is Nepal’s most popular trek destination. Meanwhile, the Gokyo Lake Trek route is lesser-known and quieter than the classic trail. You will trek from Lukla to Phakding and then to Namche Bazaar. Then, you will take a trail towards Dole and to Gokyo Valley. The beautiful Gokyo Valley has several turquoise lakes like Taujung Tsho, Gokyo Lake, Thonak Tsho, and many others. Then, you will take the trail leading to the base camp of the world’s highest mountain.
Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek
The Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek is a beautiful trek destination of the Everest region. Its scenic trekking trails take you through picturesque villages, rivers, and valleys to the base camp of Mount Ama Dablam. You will follow the trekking route of the Everest Base Camp. The trek begins from Lukla to Phakding and to Namche Bazaar and Debuche. From here, you will start your ascend to Ama Dablam Base Camp. You can enjoy magnificent mountain views during the journey. The adventurous trails of Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek are off-beat and quieter than the classic trail. Therefore, it is a great alternative route to Everest Base Camp.
Rolwaling Valley Trek
The Rolwaling Valley, also known as the “Grave,” is a remote and picturesque valley in the Everest region. Its off-the-beaten trail is another great alternative route to the base camp of the world’s highest mountain. The trekking trails take you to the lesser-known and quiet paths through Sagarmatha National Park and Gauri Shankar Conservation Area. Unlike most of the trek destinations of the Everest region, you will begin your journey with a drive to Jagat. From here, you will start the trek. You will trek past several rural villages like Simigaun, Dongang, Beding, and Na to reach Rolwaling Valley. The Rolwaling Valley trek is a hidden gem offering an adventurous and enriching experience.
Detailed Description About EBC Trek Map
In this section, we will describe the Everest Base Camp Trek map using our Nepal Alternative Trek’s 12 Days Everest Base Camp Trek itinerary.
Lukla to Phakding
- Maximum altitude: 2640 m
- Flight duration: 35 minutes
- Trekking distance: 8 km
- Time duration: Average 3 hours
- Accommodation: Sherpa Guide Lodge
- Food & Water: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
The adventure begins with a 35-minute scenic flight to Lukla. You will land at the Tenzing Hillary Airport and start your trek from there. On this day, the trek is relatively easier as you will hike along the beautiful Dudh Koshi River to Phakding village.
Phakding to Namche Bazaar
- Maximum altitude: 3440 m
- Trekking distance: 14 km
- Time duration: Average 5 hours
- Accommodation: Khumbu Lodge
- Food & Water: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
The trail gradually ascends upstream along the Dudh Koshi River. You will first reach the Monjo village and then the entrance of Sagarmatha National Park. After showing your permit, you will begin your trek ahead. You will cross several suspension bridges and make a steep ascent before you reach the picturesque Namche Bazaar.
Acclimatization at Namche Bazaar
- Maximum altitude: 3440 m
- Trekking distance: 8 km
- Time duration: Average 3 hours
- Accommodation: Khumbu Lodge
- Food & Water: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Namche Bazaar is the first acclimatization stop for the Everest Base Camp Trek. You will take a short excursion to Khumjung and Khunde village. Staying active helps your body acclimatize to the growing altitude.
Namche Bazaar to Debuche
- Maximum altitude: 3750 m
- Trekking distance: 14 km
- Time duration: Average 5 hours
- Accommodation: Rivendell Lodge or similar category
- Food & Water: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
As you leave Namche Bazaar, the trail ascends upstream along the Dudh Koshi River. You will hike past Phunki Tenga and Tengboche villages through forest trails. After reaching Tengboche, the trail descends towards Debuche.
Debuche to Dingboche
- Maximum altitude: 4350 m
- Trekking distance: 14 km
- Time duration: Average 5 hours
- Accommodation: Hotel Good Luck or similar category
- Food & Water: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
You will enter the forest trail as you leave the beautiful village of Debuche. The terrain becomes rougher and drops as you get close to Imja Khola. Then, you will slowly ascend towards Pangboche village and pass by thousands of Mani stones. Finally, you will get to Dingboche village.
Acclimatization at Dingboche
- Maximum altitude: 4350 m
- Trekking distance: –
- Time duration: Average 4 hours
- Accommodation: Hotel Good Luck or similar category
- Food & Water: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Dingboche is the second acclimatization stop for the trek. On this day, you will take a short excursion to Nangkartshang Peak at 5083 meters. Then, you will head back to Dingboche and rest for the day.
Dingboche to Lobuche
- Maximum altitude: 4900 m
- Trekking distance: 6 km
- Time duration: Average 4 hours
- Accommodation: New EBC lodge/ National Park Hotel
- Food & Water: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
The trail begins to ascend as you leave Dingboche. You will trek past Pheriche and Thukla village along the way. The village of Thukla has a Climber’s memorable park built in memory of those who lost their lives during the Mount Everest climb. You will ascend and trek along the Lobuche Glacier to reach Lobuche Village.
Lobuche to Gorakshep to Everest Base Camp & return to Gorakshep.
- Maximum altitude: 5364 m
- Trekking distance: 15 km
- Time duration: Average 7 hours
- Accommodation: Hotel Buddha/ Himalayan Inn
- Food & Water: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
You will continue to climb uphill along the Lobuche and Khumbu Glacier to get to Gorakshep. From here, you will head towards the Everest Base Camp. The trail becomes rougher, and the climb gets physically demanding. After passing the Khumbu Glacier and the Khumbu Icefall, you will reach the base camp at an elevation of 5364 meters. After exploring for a while, you will descend back to Gorakshep.
Gorakshep to Pheriche
- Maximum altitude: 4250 m
- Trekking distance: 12 km
- Time duration: Average 4 hours
- Accommodation: Trekker’s Kitchen Lodge or similar category
- Food & Water: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Before you leave Gorakshep, you will take a short excursion to Kala Patthar. This famous vantage point, at an elevation of 5545 meters, offers stunning views of some of the world’s highest mountains. Then, you will begin descending to Gorakshep and then to Pheriche.
Pheriche to Namche Bazaar
- Maximum altitude: 3440 m
- Trekking distance: 15 km
- Time duration: Average 6 hrs
- Accommodation: Hotel Kamal/ Hotel Sakura or similar category
- Food & Water: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
The trail continues to descend as you trek past Somare, Pangboche, Debuche, and Tengboche. Then, you will climb downstream along the Dudjh Koshi River and cross Phunki Tenga. From here, you will have to make a short uphill climb to Kenjoma before reaching Namche Bazaar.
Namche Bazaar to Lukla
- Maximum altitude: 2800 m
- Trekking distance: 20 km
- Time duration: Average 8 hours
- Accommodation: The Northface Resort or similar category
- Food & Water: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
The trail continues to descend downhill past Jorsalle and Monjo. After exiting the Sagarmatha National Park, you will cross Phakding village. Then, it takes a short hike to reach Lukla. Your Everest Base Camp Trek will come to an end once you arrive at Lukla.
Lukla to Kathmandu
- Maximum altitude: 1295 m
- Food & Water: Breakfast
You will get on an early flight to Kathmandu. During the flight, you will get the last glimpse of the Everest region landscape and mountains. After landing in Kathmandu, you are free to spend your remaining time as you please.
Why Having an EBC Trek Map is Crucial
The Everest Base Camp Trek map is essential during your trek journey. It provides crucial information, including maximum altitude, distance covered, and trek duration during the trek. Take a look at the reasons why having an EBC Trek map is crucial:
To Know About Altitude & Elevation
As mentioned above, the EBC Trek map is crucial to know the daily altitude and elevation gain during the trek. It allows trekkers to make mental notes on what to expect that day. Similarly, it helps trekkers plan their daily schedule most effectively. You can prepare according to the schedule, which makes the journey more comfortable. You can manage your pace without overexerting yourself.
Similarly, the EBC Trek map helps trekkers better cope with elevation change. They can plan acclimatization stops to avoid altitude sickness. The crucial details on the EBC Trek map also provide information on average trek duration. Trekkers must understand the altitude and elevation of Everest Base Camp Trek for a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.
To know the Necessary Details about that place
The details on the EBC Trek map also offer information about the places you will come across during the journey. It allows them to navigate the trail safely. There are multiple routes to the base camp with several side trails. Hence, the map helps you to stay on the trail without getting lost. It also marks important stops and major villages like Lukla, Namche, Tengboche, etc. So you can plan your stops accordingly.
You can also calculate your daily trekking distance and duration. Likewise, the map offers information on the terrains and topography of the trail. Based on the information, you can prepare yourself. The EBC Trek map also marks major landmarks and viewpoints like monasteries and museums. It helps you to discover scenic spots and attractions.
Essential For Solo Trekkers
The Everest Base Camp Trek map is essential for solo travelers. It helps them stay on the right path and navigate unfamiliar terrains, minimizing the risk of getting lost. You can download the online EBC map on your mobile, but you should carry the old-fashioned paper map during the trek. GPS or cellular signals may not work in remote areas of Everest Base. So, the physical map will help you navigate trails in areas without signals. It also enhances safety for solo trekkers.
Highlights of the Everest Base Camp Trek
- Join the classic and scenic trail of Everest Base Camp.
- Trek through Sagarmatha National Park and the diverse landscape of Everest region.
- Visit picturesque and traditional villages like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Lobuche, and many more.
- Witness panoramic mountain views of Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, Lobuche, Cho Oyu, and more.
- Visit ancient monasteries, gompas, and stupas for spiritual enlightenment.
- Witness the beautiful Khumbu Glacier and Khumbu icefall en route to the Everest Base Camp.
- Immerse in the local Sherpa culture, traditions, and lifestyle.
Conclusion
The Everest Base Camp Trek map is crucial for all trekkers. It contains all the essential information, such as the distance, duration, elevation gain, popular stops, terrains, and more. The map also immensely helps trekkers plan and prepare for the journey. Similarly, it allows trekkers to manage their pace and properly acclimate to avoid any risk of altitude sickness and overexertion.
There are various forms of Everest Base Camp Trek maps available. You have traditional paper maps, digital maps, 3D trekking maps, guidebook maps, online interactive maps, apps, etc. You can carry online or digital maps during the trek, but we suggest you also carry the paper map. It is more reliable, as the digital map may not work due to a lack of signal or if your device runs out of battery.
FAQs
Is it worth trekking to Everest Base Camp?
Definitely, Everest Base Camp is worth trekking. Its classic trails take you on an adventurous journey through diverse Himalayan terrains to the base camp of the world’s highest mountain, Mount Everest. Similarly, you will traverse picturesque Sherpa villages like the famous Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, and more. Hence, the trek offers an adventurous and enriching experience.
Which route is best for Everest Base Camp?
The classic route to Everest Base Camp is undoubtedly the best. It is the same route Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa took to climb Mount Everest. However, there are also many alternative routes that are equally adventurous and scenic. Some alternative routes include Everest Three Passes, Gokyo Lakes, Ama Dablam Base Camp, and Rolwaling Valley routes.
Can I hike to Everest Base Camp without a guide?
As per the new rule change by the government of Nepal and the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), it is mandatory to hire a licensed guide for trekking, including Everest Base Camp. You can no longer do a solo trek in Nepal. You must hire a licensed guide through a registered local trekking agency. Hiring a guide helps to make the trek safe and enhance the trekking experience.
What is the fastest way to get to Everest Base Camp?
The fastest way to Everest Base Camp is by classic trail. The total distance covered by the trail is 106 km and can be completed within a week. However, you can also take a one-day helicopter ride to the world’s highest base camp in a limited time. You will fly over the diverse landscape of the Khumbu region and land at the Everest Base Camp. The helicopter ride also allows you to skip the physically demanding trails.
How fit do you need to be to go to Everest Base Camp?
Everest Base Camp is a moderate-grade trek that requires a reasonable fitness level. You must be fit enough to ascend and descend on steep, rocky, and rough terrains. Similarly, you must be able to trek for 5 to 7 hours on average each day during the trek. Aside from being physically fit, you must also be mentally fit to participate in the Everest Base Camp Trek.
