How to trek to Everest Base Camp

It is said that the Everest Base Camp trek is among the many bucket lists and for the right reasons. The route that takes there-and-back trekkers to the base of Mount Everest (called Sagamartha in Nepali and Chomolungma in Tibetan) that is the highest peak on the planet.

To reach the top at the top of Mount Everest is a legendary featthat requires huge sacrifices. At 5,600m, Base Camp is no fool however, it is an easier goal for all people from all walks of life who are still seeking a glimpse of the highest point in the world.

In reality this Everest Base Camp trek has been so popular that there’s been debate in recent times concerning trekker “traffic jams” pollution, as well as possible restrictions on the number of trekkers per year.

Coronavirus and Everest

Despite its extremely remote location and abundant fresh air and fresh air, the Everest region is still being impacted by the coronavirus epidemic. In March of 2020 the two countries China and Nepal shut down their borders, and cancelled for 2020 the Everest trekking season.

In November of 2020, Nepal reopened borders to trekkers, but in a limited capacity. Although most foreigners are still unable to travel to Nepal however, trekkers are now able to seek prior approval and permits through their trekking company to travel in the spring 2021 trek season. Keep up-to-date with the current restrictions on travel by reading your country’s travel advisory.

What’s the experience like hiking up to Everest Base Camp?

Apart from the breathtaking views Travelers to the area can be a part of an authentic local culture by visiting monasteries, getting in touch the locals with teahouse proprietors and guides as well as admiring Buddhist Stupas as well as mani stones on the journey.

Walking is a way to spend your days to enjoy the pure pleasure and determination. You’ll pass colorful prayer flags and cross bridges of steel suspended over deep canyons. The evenings are filled with warm Nepali foods, hot chai and a chat with other travelers and local guides around the fire in the teahouse.

The captivating mix of stunning natural beauty, intriguing tradition and a satisfaction and the warm Nepalese hospitality from the locals from Solukhumbu. Solukhumbu region, make it the Everest Base Camp trek one of the most memorable treks in the world.

However, this doesn’t mean that the trek towards Everest Base Camp is simply an amazing walk. While it’s not technically challenging but it can be extremely taxing for your body because of the high altitude. The majority of people will agree that physical demands make the trek all the more rewarding.

What time should I start the journey?

From March to May , and between September and November. The temperatures rise in May, right prior to the monsoon season. Be ready for rain, however, the beautiful blooming rhododendron blooms. December temperatures drop to below zero, however, the days are beautiful and there are fewer hikers (but make sure you wrap yourself warm in the colder evenings).

Do I require a manual?

It’s not required to use a guide on this Everest Base Camp trek, and the route is well-marked. But the assistance of a local guide could greatly improve your experience even if you’re a seasoned hiker.

The hiring of a guide comes with numerous benefits: for $20 to $30 per day, you’re offering someone a worthwhile job, and in return you’ll learn a lot about the culture of the area and its natural surroundings. A lot of people also employ porters for around $10-$20 per day, to take care of the majority of your personal belongings and leave you with an everyday bag (and an easier trip). To save even more costs, many trekkers use one guide. Likewise, two trekkers can share a porter. Make sure you tip them both when you finish your hike.

A trekking service offers the benefit of having everything organized for you, from airport transfers, flights , or helicopter flights towards Lukla airport, teahouse reservations made in advance accommodation for daily meals and dinners as well as guides and porters as well as their insurance. A further advantage can be that the guides certified on the symptoms of altitude sickness and also carry oxygen tanks in their vehicles, which helps to ensure your safety on the trail.

You can make reservations before you visit Western tour operators, but you’ll pay less booking through Kathmandu Verify that your tour operator is registered Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN).

How can I get into shape?

If you’re not a professional trekker, don’t get put off. People with average fitness and minimal trekking experience can complete this hike. It is nevertheless essential to get ready in advance for Everest Base Camp with physical exercise. In the end, you’d prefer to be taking in the view instead of complaining about how your thighs hurt.

The training regimen you choose to follow should incorporate endurance, cardiovascular and strength exercises every week at least once. Make sure you focus on stair climbing, running or hiking, as well as other exercises that build the muscles you’ll require for hiking.

It’s also crucial to get ready to be at a higher altitude. Do cross-training at minimum every week by doing yoga, swimming or other exercises that focus on breathing. It is impossible to know how your body reacts to high the altitude until they’re in the actual situation however, this training can aid in preparing.

As you approach the time of your Everest Base Camp trek, ensure that you are practicing running, hiking or exercising for a number of days. The toughest part of a long-distance hike, similar to the one towards Everest Base Camp, is awakening the next day after a long night of soreness and having to do it all over again.

What should I bring with me to Base Camp?

Take care to pack lightly. Aim at 10-15kg. Think about the load of your porter before you pack that large bottle of shampoo, or pair of jeans.

The temperature is getting colder as the trek continues and the majority of teahouses are not heated and therefore it is important to pack layers. As an ideal base, pack thermal underwear and two long pants and a couple of T-shirts (synthetic fabric – not cotton – which wick off sweat). The layer that will keep you warm should be an outer layer of fleece, as well as two or three long sleeve tops. A raincoat as well as an winter jacket (for the cold high altitude evenings) can be added to complete your layer.

Shoes that are broken in lightly or trekking socks. You’ll also need sandals or sneakers for evenings in the teahouse. Also, you’ll need gloves and a woollen hat buff or a headlamp and polarized sunglasses. A comfortable sleep bag (rated to 20degC/0degF) as well as trekking poles are required however, they are available for rent in Kathmandu before you begin your trek.

Consider buying travel-sized toiletries such as a great sunscreen and lip balm, a towels and a travel towel. Dry shampoo and baby wipes can be useful for days when you don’t have the luxury of showering.

The first aid kit you have should include diarrhoea medication as well as antibiotics to treat sinus or chest infections, bandages with adhesive or hydrocolloid bandages for blisters. Consult your physician before you travel to Nepal for specific immunisations. A pulse oximeter is useful, particularly when you’re on your own trek to track the oxygen level. Also, make sure to carry a supply of hand soap and sanitizer.

Utilizing a water bottle with filtration or two bottles of 1L equipped with tablets for water purification, is a safe and reliable method to drink water and is more sustainable than purchasing the bottled water at lodges.

Make sure you bring the Nepalese Rupee in cash for food and wifi showers, toiletries as well as other things you need during your trek. Find this from an ATM located in Kathmandu prior to embarking on your journey. There are only a handful of and far-fetched ATMs throughout the trek and even a slight storm can knock an ATM at Namche Bazaar out of commission.

Being safe and healthy while on the trail

Make sure to take your time. “Slow and steady” is the most important thing to do in achieving the best results and enjoying your journey. The effects of altitude sickness can be felt by anyone even those who are fit. (The days for acclimatization, which are usually located at Namche and Dingboche are scheduled to be there for reasons.) Check for signs of altitude sickness. the symptoms are headaches with a pounding sleeplessness, dizziness, loss of appetite, breathlessness as well as low levels of oxygen. Before leaving, consult your physician to prescribe the medication Diamox which is a preventative measure for the symptoms of altitude sickness. If symptoms persist, descend.

Be alert. The route up to Everest Base Camp is relatively large and well-marked, yet it can be a bit difficult in some places. There are cliffs that look like a mountain which are usually narrowed by the passing of groups of donkeys or yaks. Be aware of the bells of approaching animals and ensure that you are on the inside of the trail, where you won’t be smashed off. Make sure you keep a distance from porters, who frequently run on trails at marathon speed. Not only does this assist in preventing traffic jams it’s also a mark of respect.

Be vegetarian. If you’re served meat on the menu during your hike, remember that all animal products are carried by porters who come from below Lukla because of the no-killing rule in Sagamartha National Park. So at the point you’re eating it, it’s aged – and could be rancid. The most healthy, safest alternative is to consume dal Bhat as the local guides and porters use to. Dal Bhat is a delectable Nepali dish made of lentil soup and rice, along with vegetables and curry, which is made in a batch. It’s freshly prepared every day and is a fantastic fuel source and protein. The saying goes “Dal bhat is power 24 hour!

Cover up. The sun in high altitudes can be very brutal, so apply an effective sunscreen and apply it frequently. Wear long-sleeved shirts or pants that are long, as well as buffs or be ready to blister.