Join me for this once in a lifetime trip to Nepal. The Everest Base Camp Trek follows an incredible 16-day itinerary with built in time for rest and acclimatization as we follow in the footsteps of Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay to the most famous basecamp in climbing history.

Friday April 18-Saturday May 3, 2025

DAY 1 Fr April 18, 2025: Arrival in Kathmandu, Nepal (1,400m/4593ft)

After your arrival in Kathmandu, you will collect your luggage and go through customs. A TJ Hiker representative will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel.

DAY 2 Sa April 19: Sightseeing in Kathmandu and Trip Preparation

Your sightseeing commences with a drive to Boudhanath Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world. Festooned with colorful prayer flags, this ancient stupa is an important centre of Tibetan Buddhism. According to local legend the remains of Kasyapa Buddha (previous incarnation of Buddha) lie buried beneath this stupa. Join the pilgrims and walk around the stupa clockwise spinning the prayer wheels. Head to Pashupatinath Temple, an important Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. The pagoda-roofed temple, which dates back to 400 AD, is one of the most sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites in the world. ‘Aryaghat’ the Hindu cremation lies nearby, and you can observe Hindu cremation rites from the eastern bank of the river Bagmati (which flows beside the temple). Wind up your sightseeing tour with an interesting visit to the medieval city of Patan. Visit Patan Durbar Square, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. The palace square, which was built by the Malla rules, has many temples, Buddhist shrines and a pagoda-roofed palace (now converted into a museum). After the tour, you will meet with the group leader for a gear check to be sure you have everything needed for the trek. We will prepare our packs and gear for our departure tomorrow.  We will meet for our welcome dinner to get to know each other and go over any last minute questions  Overnight in Kathmandu. (B, D)

DAY 3 Su April 20: Fly Kathmandu to Lukla (2,840m/9,318ft), Trek to Phakding (2,610m/8,563ft)

Your Everest adventure begins with a thrilling flight by helicopter from Kathmandu to Lukla , a charming mountainside Sherpa settlement. Once in Lukla, you will meet the rest of the crew, sort out your belongings for the porter to carry, repack your gear and begin your trek. We will walk through the village of Chauri Kharka and descend towards the Dudh Koshi River. The scenic trail follows the bank of the river until we reach the small Sherpa village of Phakding (2,610m), which is nestled in the verdant Dudh Koshi Valley. En route you get a glimpse of Khumbila, a sacred peak worshipped by the Sherpas. This is one of the few unclimbed peaks in the Khumbu region as it is prohibited to step on this sacred peak. If you are not too tired, stroll around the village and interact with the locals or head to one of the cafes and enjoy a hot brew or a drink (B, L, D) (8 km/4.97 mi) 3-4 hours trekking.

DAY 4 Mo April 21: Trek Phakding to Namche Bazar (3,440m/11,286ft)

This morning, we set off to Namche Bazaar, better known as the “Sherpa Capital” of Nepal. The track crosses over the milky glacial river of Dudh Koshi. You will walk across a suspension bridge, and into the beautiful pine forest up to Monjo. You get to cross several suspension bridges including the famous Hillary Suspension bridge! After passing through the ranger station at the entrance of Sagarmatha National Park where we will show our permits for the trek, you hike further down to Dudh Koshi River up and then to Jorsale where we have lunch. After lunch and a break to rest, we slowly ascend as we hike up to Namche Bazaar. This is the economic hub of Everest Region and our destination for the next two nights. Brace yourself as you catch the first glimpse of Mount Everest in all its glory from a vantage point known as Tope Danda. Overnight in Namche Bazaar. (B, L, D)  6 to 7 hours trek (10.5 km/6.5)

DAY 5 Tu April 22: Acclimatization Day Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,286ft)

Today we will spend the day at Namche Bazaar for our first acclimatization day. Here you will find some of the best bakeries, cafes, restaurants, shops, and the only ATM at this altitude in the Everest Region. Namche’s ‘Saturday Market’ is famous throughout Khumbu. Traders from all over Everest Region come to Namche to sell their wares at the Saturday Market. Mingle with the genial locals or hike up to any of the vantage points for incredible views of the Himalayas. You can take an early morning hike to Sagarmatha National Park for a mesmerizing Himalayan sunrise. Watch the sun rays lighting up the snow-covered peaks of Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Kongde and Lhotse.  If you would like to know more about Himalayan culture, you can head to the Sherpa Culture Museum and get an insight about Sherpa traditions and culture. An uphill ascent to Everest View Hotel via Shyangboche Airport serves as a good acclimatization climb while offering you views of Mount Everest, Thamserku and Ama Dablam. If you are feeling up to it, you can hike over to Khumjung and Kunde villages. You can also visit the very first school in the Everest Region established by Sir Edmund Hillary in Khumjung. The Khumjung Monastery, which is more than 400-hundred years old, has on display what is believed to be the scalp of Yeti, the abominable snowman. (B, L, D)

DAY 6 We April 23: Trek Namche to Tengboche (3,860m/12,664ft)

Today’s trail offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges. Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku and Kwangde are some of the Himalayan giants you will see while you trek. The walk-through juniper and rhododendron forests with the giant peaks looming overhead makes this a memorable hike. Today’s trek ends at the Sherpa village of Tengboche. One can enjoy a close view of Ama Dablam, renowned as one of the most beautiful peaks in the world. Tengboche Monastery, the largest Buddhist monastery in Khumbu region, looms over the village. Visit the monastery and feel the calming impact of this sacred place as you listen to the trance inducing hum and chants of the monks. Moreover, the golden rays of the sun brushing over the snowy mountains, including Ama Dablam and Thamserku, during sunrise and sunset are not to be missed. Overnight in Tengboche. (B, L, D) 5 to 6 hours trek (10 km/6.2 mi)

DAY 7 Th April 24: Trek Tengboche to Dingboche (4,410m/14,469ft)

Today you will cross over to the plains and the Imja Khola River towards Pangboche. Dingboche Village, where we stay for the next two nights in order to acclimatize more, has the biggest as well as the highest permanent settlement of Sherpas in the region. The typical Sherpa village ambience and the local food will keep you amused! In the afternoon head towards Dingboche. En route enjoy inspiring views of Island Peak and Ama Dablam. Overnight in Dingboche. (B, L, D) 5 to 6 hours trek (11 km/6.8 mi)

DAY 8 Fr April 25: Dingboche – Acclimatization Day (4,410m/14,469ft) – Hike to Nagarjun Hill (5100m/16,732’)

This is your second acclimatization day. A popular stop for trekkers and climbers headed to Mount Everest, Ama Dablam or Imja Tse, there is a lot to do here. After breakfast, you will take an acclimatization hike to Nagarjun Hill (5100m/16,732’) which is not far from the village. It is an upward hike with no technical sections. There may be loose rocks, and you may have to watch your step as you scramble on some sections, but no technical climbing is required and apart from the altitude. Named after a Buddhist hermitage that lies on the hill, Nangkatshang or Nagarjun is one of the best viewpoints in the Khumbu region. One can enjoy incredible 360-degree views of Makalu, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Kantega, Thamserku etc. The best views are of Ama Dablam (one can see the whole mountain, from the base to the summit) and Island Peak. You can also get a close-up view of the Imja glacier from here. In the late afternoon you can rest or stroll around the village. Overnight in Dingboche. (B, L, D)

DAY 9 Sa April 26: Trek Dingboche to Lobuche (4,910m/16,109ft) (B, L, D)

Today we leave Dingboche and continue over craggy mountain terrain to reach Lobuche, a small settlement with outstanding views of the peaks of Lobuche, Pumori and Nuptse. Because of the high altitude, you may find walking a bit difficult. Not to worry, we will take a slow pace en route to Lobuche, stopping for lunch and a break at the small village of Thukla (4600m/15,091’). At Thukla Pass we stop by and pay our respects at the memorial stupas built in honor of those mountaineers who lost their lives while climbing Mount Everest. Among the stone memorials, the ones dedicated to alpinists Scott Fischer, Rob Hall and the record-breaking climbing Sherpa Late Babu Chiri Sherpa stand out. The ill-fated Everest expedition where Scott Fischer and Rob Hall lost their lives has been described in John Krakauer’s book “Into Thin Air”, which was made into a feature-length movie named “Everest”. From the trail one can view the peaks bordering Nepal and Tibet. Lobuche Village is made up of a small number of local homes and teahouses offering basic facilities. The nights are going to get colder, so it is wise to cover yourself up as you are now almost three miles above sea level. Overnight Lobuche. (B, L, D) 5 to 6 hours trek (8 km/5 mi)

DAY 10 Su April 27: Trek Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5,140m/16,864ft) – Visit to Everest Base Camp (5,364m/17,598ft) Today your dream of getting to the base of the world’s highest peak turns into a reality. Though challenging and tough, today’s walk is one of the most memorable walks in your entire journey. As the elevation rises and the oxygen level drops, you may find exertion more difficult and feel weaker. We will take it slowly and steadily. It takes only a couple of hours to reach Gorak Shep.

Once we reach the teahouse in Gorak Shep, we will grab refreshments for a short break, leave all heavy items at our teahouse, and then proceed to hike up to Everest Base Camp. Using caution as we walk alongside the Khumbu Glacier, we will observe the stunning Khumbu Glacier and icefall, located on the slopes of Mt Everest which will leave you awe-struck. On the final ascent to the Everest Base Camp, the views are out of this world, and it is an ideal place for photographs. Later, we return to our tea house in Gorak Shep where we will overnight. (B, L, D) 7 to 8 hours trekking (12 km/ 7.5 mi)

DAY 11 Mo April 28: Hike to Kala Patthar (5550m/18,209ft) – Descend to Pheriche (4,240m/13,911ft)

After breakfast we will hike to Kala Patthar, the most popular viewpoint in the Everest Region. Kala Patthar is the highest point of your trek at 5550 M/18,209’. Since the summit of Mount Everest is not visible from Everest Base Camp, trekkers usually hike to Kala Patthar to get a close-up view of the world’s tallest peak. Kala Patthar is surrounded by icy walls of Mount Pumori, Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse. Enjoy a 360-degree view of these Himalayan giants. Watch the fiery rays of the sun lighting the rocky pinnacle of Mount Everest from atop the Kala Patthar. Later, return to Gorak Shep and head down towards Pheriche. Overnight in Pheriche. (B, L, D) 6 to 7 hours trek (12 km/7.5)  Option to descend to Lukla via helicopter from Gorak Shep $500 USD* (*subject to change by local companies)

DAY 12 Tu April 29: Trek Pheriche to Namche (3,440m/11,286ft)

It is comparatively an easy downhill trek from Pheriche to Tengboche. After an hour of ascending a section of a hill, by late afternoon you will reach Namche Bazaar. Soak in the experiences and take a good night’s rest. Overnight in Namche. (B, L, D) – 7 to 8 hours trek (19 km/11.8 mi)

DAY 13 Wed: April 30 Trek Namche to Lukla (2,840m/9,318ft)

Today’s walk brings you to Lukla again. After breakfast, trek towards the Hillary Suspension Bridge and then through pass through several local villages until we arrive at Lukla. In Lukla you can celebrate your conquest! This would officially be your last night in the mountains. We are sure you will experience the joy and celebrate the bonds that you have made. Overnight in Lukla. (B, L, D) 6 to 7 hours trek (18.5 km/11.5)

DAY 14 Th May 1:  Lukla to Manthali Airport-Ramechhap (474m/1555′)

Today we will fly from Lukla to Manthali Airport in Ramechhap and make our way back by vehicle to Kathmandu. You will transfer to your hotel where you can rest or go shopping for souvenirs. There are shops around the vicinity of the hotel selling handicraft items and locally made trinkets and clothes. Ason, the oldest market in Kathmandu, is also a few hundred meters from the hotel. You can shop for spices, tea, brass statues, and decorative jars at this market. If you wish to take a guided cultural tour, let you group leader know and we can arrange additional tours. In the evening, celebrate the completion of your adventure with a complimentary farewell dinner. Overnight in Kathmandu. (B, D)

DAY 15 Fr May 2: Contingency Day

This day has been set aside for emergencies such as flight delays or cancellations, harsh weather on the trail etc. If your trip goes as planned, then you can use this day to explore a village en route or Kathmandu. Do inform us if you want to book additional tours. Overnight in Kathmandu. (B)

DAY 16 Sa May 3:  This is your last day in Nepal. Your ground transfer to the airport will depart from the hotel three hours before your flight is scheduled to depart. (B)

Price: $5699 per person, double occupancy. Add $595 Single supplement** See Single Supplement note below

What’s Included:

• Airport pick up & drop off service in a private vehicle.
• 3-4-star accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast, welcome and farewell dinners.
• Guided Sightseeing in Kathmandu with all the entrance fees, guide and driver
• Best available clean and comfortable Tea house accommodation during the trek
• All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) with tea/coffee during the trek
• Seasonal fruits during the trek
• Domestic flights Manthali Airport in Ramechhap-Lukla- Manthali Airport in Ramechhap
• An extra 5kg luggage allowance on Lukla flight, total 20kg
• Guide/Assistant Trekking Guide (4 trekkers: 1 Asst. guide) for personalized care
• Porter service to carry your main luggage during the trek (2-trekkers: 1-porter)
• Staff cost including their food, accommodation, salary, flight, insurance, equipment etc.
• Sagarmatha National Park Entry Fee and Community Fee
• Loaner Down jacket and sleeping bag (to be returned after trek completion)
• All Local and Government taxes, administrative charges

Not Included:

• Extra night(s) accommodation in Kathmandu in case of early arrival or late departure
• Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu as indicated in the itinerary.
• Nepal Visa fee (currently at $50 USD but subject to change)
• Travel and medical insurance including evacuation coverage (mandatory)
• International flights
• Excess baggage fee (15 kg Baggage allowance for Lukla flight, 10kg check-in baggage + 5 kg hand baggage – for extra baggage it will cost around USD 1 per 1 Kg (2.2 lbs.)
• Personal expenses (phone call, internet, laundry, bar bills, snacks, battery recharge, bottled or boiled water, souvenirs, hot showers, extra porter etc.)
• Personal trekking gear and equipment
• Tips for guides, porters, and driver’s (tipping is expected)
• Any unseen expenses due to circumstances beyond our control or expenses incurred as a result of early departure from the trek.
• Additional nights hotel as needed $95 USD

**NOTE: Single supplement may not be possible at some teahouses at higher elevations. You may be required to room with another group member.

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Reservation and Cancellation Policy:

A $1875 USD non-refundable deposit, plus transaction fees for credit card payments, are required to confirm your spot. The balance is due in full 120 days prior to the start of the trip. No refunds will be given within 120 days of the first day of the trip. Reservations made within 121 days of the trip must be paid in full and are non-refundable.  Travel insurance with medical, high altitude sport pack and evacuation coverage is mandatory.

 Travel Insurance

TJ Hiker, Inc. is not affiliated in any way with the following insurance providers.  Please be sure to research which policy best meets your needs.

Red Point Travel

https://redpointtravelprotection.com/plan/ripcord/

SquareMouth

https://www.squaremouth.com/

World Nomads

https://www.worldnomads.com/usa/travel-insurance

Travel Guard/ My Travel Guard
http://www.travelguard.com/

Travelex
http://www.travelexinsurance.com/