Everest Base Camp Hike: 15-day Everest Base Camp Hike Experience via Phaplu Multi-day Tours & Adventures

Alpine Club of Himalaya Alpine Club of Himalaya

Everest Base Camp Hike: 15-day Everest Base Camp Hike Experience via Phaplu

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About this experience

✔ Private group
✔ English speaking guide and a porter per group of two
✔ Full Board during the trek
✔ Flexible starting date after booking

DURATION: 15 Days
MAXIMUM ALTITUDE: 5,545m (18,193ft) at Kalapatthar
OPENING SEASON: Year-round
WHO CAN COME: This trek is private. Only your group will participate. Everest Base Camp hike is suitable for anyone in good health and reasonably fit. No previous experience in high altitudes is required

Overview

This Everest Base Camp hike via Phaplu follows the footsteps of Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa. The route provides an unbeatable combination of natural beauty and cultural splendor. The immense contrasts in altitudes, type of vegetation, and mix of lifestyles are the main highlight of this 15-day adventure via Phaplu.

One can enjoy beautiful mountain views, verdant terraces, and Himalayan streams and waterfalls as the trail crosses through villages and landscapes covered by rhododendron, magnolia, and giant forests. The route is long and strenuous but the trek winds through great mountain countryside and beautiful villages. The trail passes through classic middle hills country that is blissfully free from the crowds that mob the trail further north.

Facilities on this trek are basic but adequate. Even though the trek begins at just 2200m/7218ft, it climbs to 5545m at Kala Patthar, a dark mound of mountain rubble that provides the best views of Mt. Everest, and drops as low as 1500m at the Dudh Koshi crossing east of Nuntala. Starting from Phaplu, the route passes through the Sherpa villages of the Solu Khumbu, many of them having beautiful Buddhist monasteries. The height gain is gradual making it easier to acclimatize.

After a rest day in Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa capital, the trail continues to the famous Tengboche Monastery. The aim of it is to climb Kala Pattar, from where the southwest face of Everest can be clearly seen, as well as aside Trekking trip to Everest Base Camp. The return trek leads to Lukla for the flight back to Kathmandu where our Everest Base Camp trek via Phaplu will be finished.

24/7 Available Support

For this Everest Base Camp hike, there is 24/7 support. Are you interested but not sure about payment or other safety and logistics issues? Please contact us at support@gofreedly.com

Highlights

◾ Take a multi-day trek to Everest Base Camp (5340m/17521ft) and have a once-in-a-lifetime experience
◾ Follow your experienced local guide and get an in-depth and authentic cultural experience in the local Sherpa villages
◾ Take in incredible views of the soaring peaks, gaping valleys, and glaciers as you trek to Everest Base camp

About this experience

✔ Private group
✔ English speaking guide and a porter per group of two
✔ Full Board during the trek
✔ Flexible starting date after booking

DURATION: 15 Days
MAXIMUM ALTITUDE: 5,545m (18,193ft) at Kalapatthar
OPENING SEASON: Year-round
WHO CAN COME: This trek is private. Only your group will participate. Everest Base Camp hike is suitable for anyone in good health and reasonably fit. No previous experience in high altitudes is required

Description - What to expect

Everest Base Camp hike Itinerary
◾ Day 1: Drive to Phaplu and short trek to Takshindo (3,071m) with breakfast, lunch, and dinner
The trekking starts with driving to Phaplu from Kathmandu followed by a short hike to Takshindo. The journey is filled with beautiful sceneries leaving the busy roads behind. Phaplu is mainly a Sherpa settlement area with guest houses and an airport. While trekking towards Takshindo, the trail offers extraordinary landscape views. Overnight in Takshindo. Average trekking time 2-3 hours.

◾ Day 2: Trek to Kharikhola (2,194 m)
Before continuing the journey further on the trail visit the Takshindo Monastery. Then, begin to descend alongside the Dudh Koshi River followed by an uphill climb through forests, terrace fields and frequently appearing Sherpa villages towards KhariKhola. Follow your guide and learn about the Sherpa Buddhism culture that is so prevalent in these mountains.
Overnight in Khari Khola. Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner. Average trekking time 6-7 hours

◾ Day 3: Trek to Puiyan (2,890 m)
Today the journey begins with an ascend towards Puiyan. The trail passes through small villages and forests followed by a narrow canyon before arriving at Puiyan. Small stone houses with colorful Buddhist prayer flags compliment you with extraordinary views while trekking. In the background, snowcapped mountains rise majestically. Sherpa women farming with the traditional costumes is common while trekking in this region.
Overnight in Puiyan. Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner. Average trekking time 5-6 hours

◾ Day 4: Trek to Phakding (2,692 m)
Ascending continues on this day as well. Trekking ahead at a ridge at 2,800 meters from where you hike to Surke. The trekking trail is considerably flatter and meanders along the contours of the valley through thick scented mossy forests. The trail further cuts deep into the steep rocky side of the valley where you can come across mule caravans making their way alongside you. The trail finally joins the Dudh Koshi river valley and enters the settlement of Phakding.
Overnight in Phakding. Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner. Average trekking time 5-6 hours

◾ Day 5: Trek to Namche Bazzar (3,440m)
After breakfast, head to the famous Namche Bazzar walking through the dense Rhododendron and Pine forests and along with the terraced fields. Enter the Sagarmatha National Park crossing the Dudh Koshi River twice on this day. You will see yaks throughout the trail to Namche carrying goods to be transported in different parts of the Everest Region. You will always have Nupla (5,885m), KongdeRi (6,093m), and Thamserku (6,808m) in the background rising majestically throughout the day.
Overnight stay in Namche Bazaar. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Average trekking time 5-6 hours

◾ Day 6: Acclimatization day (day hike to Shyangboche at 3,833m)
Today is a rest day in Namche Bazzar for acclimatization. Due to the thinning air, it is important to spend an extra day in Namche Bazzar to be familiar with the climatic conditions. During the day you can hike up to the Everest View Hotel in Shyangboche for mesmerizing views of Ama Dablam and Mount Everest. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Average trekking time 2 hours.

◾ Day 7: Trek to Thyangboche (3,780m)
Start the day, with a trek over the ridge that offers splendid views of Ama Dablam. Mount Everest can be clearly seen on the horizon before entering the Rhododendron forest and descending on a smooth track. Cross the raging Dudh Koshi river once again and continue your trek to the famous monastery in Thyanboche which is considered a spiritual and cultural center of these highlands. The monastery was first built in 1912 but later it was destroyed by fire in 1989. It has been recently rebuilt with the assistance of Sir Edmund Hillary. There is a high possibility of seeing wild animals like musk deer, wild goats, and pheasants in the forest during the trek as this area is a devout Buddhist region.
Overnight stay in Thyangboche. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Average trekking time 4-5 hours

◾ Day 8: Trek to Dingboche (4,365m)
Begin the day by climbing uphill to ImjaKhola then followed by an easy walk along a wide-open path to a tiny sherpa settlement called Pangboche (3,901m). You will meet Sherpas who have successfully summited Mount Everest and the number is more than the rest of the world combined. You will also visit an ancient monastery where Lama Geishi gives his blessing to those who attempt to climb the world’s tallest mountain. The trek goes on an uphill path through the valley with stunning mountains all around.
Overnight stay in Dingboche. Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Average trekking time 4-5 hours.

◾ Day 9: Rest at Dingboche (4,350 m) with breakfast, lunch and dinner. Side trip around Chhukkung Valley.
Spend an extra day in Dingboche to acclimatize with the altitude. During the day you will hike around Dingboche or around Chhukkung valley. Overnight in Dingboche.

◾ Day 10: Trek to Lobuche at (4,955m)
After breakfast, start walking on a drier landscape above the treeline with wonderful mountain views of Cholatse, Lobuche, and Pumori. Many Rock Cairns can be seen while passing Dugla Ridge which is dedicated to the departed soul of those who died attempting to conquer Everest. Continue in the direction of Khumbu Glacier which is also the longest in Nepal. The night in Lobuche will be comparatively cold as you will be more elevated and exposed to the upper slopes of the valley.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Average trekking time 4-5 hours.

◾ Day 11: Trek to Gorak Shep (5,395m)
The initial trail is a rocky moraine of the Khumbu glacier heading high towards the settlement of Gorakshep. you will stop in Gorakshep for lunch and proceed to the Everest Base Camp for the 360-degree Himalayas views that include some of the famous mountains like Everest (8,848m), Nuptse (7,745m), Lhotse (8,516m).
Overnight stay in Gorakshep. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Average trekking time 7-8 hours

◾ Day 12: Climb Kalapattar and trek to Pheriche (4,252m)
Today we trek up to the famous Everest viewpoint of Kalapattar at an elevation of 5,545m above sea level. If the weather is promising we will be seeing an extraordinary view of the black pyramid that is Mount Everest. The view from Kalapattar is beyond the explanation and the Everest almost looks unclimbable. After spending some time in Kalapattar, we trek down to Pheriche for an overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Average trekking time 8 hours.

◾ Day 13: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
After successfully trekking up to the Everest Base Camp descend down to Namche Bazar. Walk through the villages of Orsho, Shomare, Pangboche, and Devoche. A short break in Pangboche visiting the famous Pangboche monastery, the oldest in the region. The views throughout the day are incredible.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Average trekking time 7-8 hours.

Day 14: Trek to Lukla (2,652m)
Return back to Lukla as you retrace your footsteps along the Dudh Koshi River. The beautiful and smooth path through rhododendron and pine forests reaches Lukla after climbing out of the river valley. Spend the last night in mountains.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Average trekking time 6 hours.

◾ Day 15: Fly Back to Kathmandu
Fly back to Kathmandu after you said goodbye to your supporting crew members. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free and easy. This day also acts as a buffer day in case of flight cancellation to or from Lukla due to weather conditions.

Free Cancellation

◾ If you cancel your Everest Base Camp hike up to 15 days before departure you forfeit your deposit only
◾ If you cancel your tour between 15 and 7 days before departure you forfeit 50% of the tour cost
◾ If you cancel your tour within 7 days from the start of your experience you forfeit 100% of your tour cost
◾ You can reschedule the starting time of your experience up to 15 days prior to the original starting time for free. If your want to reschedule your starting time within 15 days prior to departure extra fees might apply
◾ No refunds are made if you voluntarily leave a trip for any reason after the trip starts
◾ No refunds will be made for accommodation, transport, sightseeing, meals, or any services not used

What's included, what's not

✔ All airport/hotel pick up and drop in private car/van
✔ Drive to Phaplu by jeep
✔ 14 Nights stay in lodge/guest house during trek
✔ Kathmandu city tour in private car/van
✔ An experienced English speaking Trekking Guide and a Porter during the trek
✔ Salary, food, insurance, and lodging cost for guide and porter (2 trekkers-1 porters)
✔ During the trek, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Tea/Coffee
✔ Welcome or farewell meals and breakfasts while in Kathmandu
✔ National Park Permit and TIMS for Everest
✔ Airfare from Lukla to Kathmandu and domestic flight departure taxes
✔ Down Jacket and Sleeping Bag to be returned to the office after trek completion
✔ Kitbag and T-shirt for you

✖ Nepal entry visa fees
✖ International airfare and departure tax
✖ Bar bills, laundry, and other expenses of personal nature
✖ Travel insurance including evacuation
✖ Meals in Kathmandu
✖ Tips for local staff, guides, and porters
✖ Other extras

Bring with you

For this Everest Base Camp hike, we recommend carefully considering all essentials for the adventure. (an extensive list can be provided on request) The weight limit for your luggage is 33 pounds or 15 kg. Remember that your luggage will be carried by your porter but you are required to carry a day-pack (with your valuables or anything important) on your own.

Accommodation offer

You will be accommodated in Alpine Hotel and Apartments or similar hotels in Kathmandu and standard tea houses during trekking. All accommodations in Kathmandu and tea houses are on a twin-shared basis.

Health and safety

Nepal is open to fully vaccinated people. Provider complies with local legislation and applicable health recommendations with regard to Covid-19 prevention measures

Description - What to expect

Everest Base Camp hike Itinerary
◾ Day 1: Drive to Phaplu and short trek to Takshindo (3,071m) with breakfast, lunch, and dinner
The trekking starts with driving to Phaplu from Kathmandu followed by a short hike to Takshindo. The journey is filled with beautiful sceneries leaving the busy roads behind. Phaplu is mainly a Sherpa settlement area with guest houses and an airport. While trekking towards Takshindo, the trail offers extraordinary landscape views. Overnight in Takshindo. Average trekking time 2-3 hours.

◾ Day 2: Trek to Kharikhola (2,194 m)
Before continuing the journey further on the trail visit the Takshindo Monastery. Then, begin to descend alongside the Dudh Koshi River followed by an uphill climb through forests, terrace fields and frequently appearing Sherpa villages towards KhariKhola. Follow your guide and learn about the Sherpa Buddhism culture that is so prevalent in these mountains.
Overnight in Khari Khola. Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner. Average trekking time 6-7 hours

◾ Day 3: Trek to Puiyan (2,890 m)
Today the journey begins with an ascend towards Puiyan. The trail passes through small villages and forests followed by a narrow canyon before arriving at Puiyan. Small stone houses with colorful Buddhist prayer flags compliment you with extraordinary views while trekking. In the background, snowcapped mountains rise majestically. Sherpa women farming with the traditional costumes is common while trekking in this region.
Overnight in Puiyan. Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner. Average trekking time 5-6 hours

◾ Day 4: Trek to Phakding (2,692 m)
Ascending continues on this day as well. Trekking ahead at a ridge at 2,800 meters from where you hike to Surke. The trekking trail is considerably flatter and meanders along the contours of the valley through thick scented mossy forests. The trail further cuts deep into the steep rocky side of the valley where you can come across mule caravans making their way alongside you. The trail finally joins the Dudh Koshi river valley and enters the settlement of Phakding.
Overnight in Phakding. Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner. Average trekking time 5-6 hours

◾ Day 5: Trek to Namche Bazzar (3,440m)
After breakfast, head to the famous Namche Bazzar walking through the dense Rhododendron and Pine forests and along with the terraced fields. Enter the Sagarmatha National Park crossing the Dudh Koshi River twice on this day. You will see yaks throughout the trail to Namche carrying goods to be transported in different parts of the Everest Region. You will always have Nupla (5,885m), KongdeRi (6,093m), and Thamserku (6,808m) in the background rising majestically throughout the day.
Overnight stay in Namche Bazaar. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Average trekking time 5-6 hours

◾ Day 6: Acclimatization day (day hike to Shyangboche at 3,833m)
Today is a rest day in Namche Bazzar for acclimatization. Due to the thinning air, it is important to spend an extra day in Namche Bazzar to be familiar with the climatic conditions. During the day you can hike up to the Everest View Hotel in Shyangboche for mesmerizing views of Ama Dablam and Mount Everest. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Average trekking time 2 hours.

◾ Day 7: Trek to Thyangboche (3,780m)
Start the day, with a trek over the ridge that offers splendid views of Ama Dablam. Mount Everest can be clearly seen on the horizon before entering the Rhododendron forest and descending on a smooth track. Cross the raging Dudh Koshi river once again and continue your trek to the famous monastery in Thyanboche which is considered a spiritual and cultural center of these highlands. The monastery was first built in 1912 but later it was destroyed by fire in 1989. It has been recently rebuilt with the assistance of Sir Edmund Hillary. There is a high possibility of seeing wild animals like musk deer, wild goats, and pheasants in the forest during the trek as this area is a devout Buddhist region.
Overnight stay in Thyangboche. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Average trekking time 4-5 hours

◾ Day 8: Trek to Dingboche (4,365m)
Begin the day by climbing uphill to ImjaKhola then followed by an easy walk along a wide-open path to a tiny sherpa settlement called Pangboche (3,901m). You will meet Sherpas who have successfully summited Mount Everest and the number is more than the rest of the world combined. You will also visit an ancient monastery where Lama Geishi gives his blessing to those who attempt to climb the world’s tallest mountain. The trek goes on an uphill path through the valley with stunning mountains all around.
Overnight stay in Dingboche. Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Average trekking time 4-5 hours.

◾ Day 9: Rest at Dingboche (4,350 m) with breakfast, lunch and dinner. Side trip around Chhukkung Valley.
Spend an extra day in Dingboche to acclimatize with the altitude. During the day you will hike around Dingboche or around Chhukkung valley. Overnight in Dingboche.

◾ Day 10: Trek to Lobuche at (4,955m)
After breakfast, start walking on a drier landscape above the treeline with wonderful mountain views of Cholatse, Lobuche, and Pumori. Many Rock Cairns can be seen while passing Dugla Ridge which is dedicated to the departed soul of those who died attempting to conquer Everest. Continue in the direction of Khumbu Glacier which is also the longest in Nepal. The night in Lobuche will be comparatively cold as you will be more elevated and exposed to the upper slopes of the valley.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Average trekking time 4-5 hours.

◾ Day 11: Trek to Gorak Shep (5,395m)
The initial trail is a rocky moraine of the Khumbu glacier heading high towards the settlement of Gorakshep. you will stop in Gorakshep for lunch and proceed to the Everest Base Camp for the 360-degree Himalayas views that include some of the famous mountains like Everest (8,848m), Nuptse (7,745m), Lhotse (8,516m).
Overnight stay in Gorakshep. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Average trekking time 7-8 hours

◾ Day 12: Climb Kalapattar and trek to Pheriche (4,252m)
Today we trek up to the famous Everest viewpoint of Kalapattar at an elevation of 5,545m above sea level. If the weather is promising we will be seeing an extraordinary view of the black pyramid that is Mount Everest. The view from Kalapattar is beyond the explanation and the Everest almost looks unclimbable. After spending some time in Kalapattar, we trek down to Pheriche for an overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Average trekking time 8 hours.

◾ Day 13: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
After successfully trekking up to the Everest Base Camp descend down to Namche Bazar. Walk through the villages of Orsho, Shomare, Pangboche, and Devoche. A short break in Pangboche visiting the famous Pangboche monastery, the oldest in the region. The views throughout the day are incredible.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Average trekking time 7-8 hours.

Day 14: Trek to Lukla (2,652m)
Return back to Lukla as you retrace your footsteps along the Dudh Koshi River. The beautiful and smooth path through rhododendron and pine forests reaches Lukla after climbing out of the river valley. Spend the last night in mountains.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Average trekking time 6 hours.

◾ Day 15: Fly Back to Kathmandu
Fly back to Kathmandu after you said goodbye to your supporting crew members. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free and easy. This day also acts as a buffer day in case of flight cancellation to or from Lukla due to weather conditions.
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