Embarking on the Everest Base Camp Trek is a journey that promises to be an unforgettable experience. Things to know how much does it cost to trek Everest Base Camp but cost would depend on services. Throughout the trek, you will soak into breathtaking landscapes and stunning views of the world’s highest mountains. Trekking through rugged terrains, crossing suspension bridges, and hiking through forests filled with rhododendrons and pine trees.
Besides, the journey is both physically and mentally challenging. The fresh mountain air, and the hospitality of the local Sherpa community. It’s a great opportunity to push your limits and make this adventure one of the most sought-after treks in the world.
A question comes to mind- “How much does it cost to trek Everest Base Camp?” As you prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey through the stunning Khumbu region. It’s crucial to have a clear idea of the expenses involved. The Everest Base Camp Trek is a must-do for adventure enthusiasts, but it’s important to plan your budget accordingly to make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime experience. So, join us as we explore the costs associated with trekking to Everest Base Camp and help you prepare for this epic adventure.
The expenses involved in the Everest Base Camp trek can vary depending on factors such as the trek duration, time of year, and preferred level of comfort. Let’s examine in more detail some of the costs associated with the EBC Trek.
To embark on a journey to Everest Base Camp, it is mandatory to possess two permits. The Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit and the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit.
The former is required for anyone trekking in the Khumbu region, the Khumbu entrance feel and Sagarmatha National Park are required to complete the trek. An entrance fee costs NPR 2,000 and Sagarmatha National Park costs NPR 3000 for each permit. Furthermore, both permits are necessary for entry into the Everest region and must be carried throughout the trek.
The Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit is issued at the Lukla, while the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit is issued at the entrance gate in Monjo. You will need to provide your passport details to obtain the permits.
The fees collected from these permits are used for the development of the area and to conserve and preserve the region. If you plan to take the Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek, you’ll need an additional permit for the Gaurishankar Conservation Area, which can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu for NPR 3,000 per person.
The trek to Everest Base Camp commences from the quaint mountain town of Lukla, which is situated in the Khumbu region. Travelers can opt to reach Lukla either via a scenic flight or a trek starting from Jiri. The Jiri trek is a longer and more challenging route, which usually takes around 6-7 days to complete before reaching Lukla.
On the other hand, a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla is a more popular option, and it typically takes about 35 minutes. The cost of the flight can range between $150 to $200 USD per person(one way). It can vary based on factors like the season, demand, and availability of flights. The flight offers exhilarating views and is considered one of the world’s most thrilling flights.
As you embark on the trek to Everest Three High Pass, you will be accommodated in the tea houses or lodges scattered throughout the route. These tea houses provide basic lodging facilities, and the cost of accommodation usually ranges from $2 to $6 USD per night per person, depending on the level of comfort you require.
It’s essential to note that the amenities available in tea houses may vary depending on the altitude, with some tea houses offering more comfort than others. While some tea houses may have private rooms with attached bathrooms, others may offer only shared facilities.
You may come across other expenses during the Everest Base Camp trek, apart from food and lodging. These may comprise.
Charging Points: Charging points are usually available at tea houses for devices like cameras and phones. The fees for charging may range from $1 to $3 hourly.
Wifi: Although some tea houses provide wifi, it can be erratic and sluggish. You can expect to pay around $2 to $6 per hour for wifi.
Hot Water Showers: You can typically anticipate paying between $2 to $5 for a hot shower.
Overall, the accommodation facilities along the Everest Base Camp trek are quite basic, but they offer a comfortable and affordable stay for trekkers.
When it comes to food and drinks during the Everest Base Camp trek, the costs can vary. It depends on the location and the teahouse you choose to stay in. A typical meal at a teahouse can cost anywhere from $5 to $10 USD. Here are some examples of the types of dishes you might find on the menu:
Traditional Nepalese dishes: These may include dal Bhat (a lentil soup served with rice and vegetables), momos (dumplings filled with meat or vegetables), Thukpa or Sherpa stew (a hearty noodle soup), and chow mein (stir-fried noodles).
Western options: Many tea houses also offer familiar Western dishes like pizza, pasta, and burgers. These options may be slightly adapted to suit local tastes, for example, by incorporating Nepalese spices or ingredients.
It’s worth noting that the higher up you go on the trek, the more expensive the food and drinks become, as they need to be carried up the mountain by porters. In some of the more remote locations, prices for meals and drinks can be considerably higher than in the more populated areas.
In terms of drinks, a cup of tea or coffee can cost between $1 to $3 USD, while soft drinks and bottled water can be more expensive, ranging from $2 to $5 USD per bottle. It’s a good idea to bring a water purification system or tablets, as buying bottled water along the trek can be costly and environmentally unsustainable.
It’s also a good idea to carry some snacks and energy bars with you during the trek, as these can be expensive at teahouses, and the variety may be limited. Snacks like nuts, dried fruit, and chocolate can help you stay energized and provide a quick boost of energy when you need it. Keeping these items handy can help you avoid hunger pangs or overeating during meals.
Overall, it’s important to budget carefully for food and drinks during the Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lake Trek. It’s advisable to bring some cash with you on the trek. Credit cards are not accepted after crossing the Namche Bazaar.
Hiring a guide and a porter can be a great way to enhance your Everest Base Camp trekking experience. While it is not mandatory to hire a guide but better to take a guide at high altitudes for safety.
A guide can provide valuable assistance throughout the trek. They can help with navigation, offer information about the local culture and history, and provide insight into the surrounding environment. They can also help with language barriers and communication with local people, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience. The cost guide cost would be approximately $20 to $30 USD per day. It depends on their level of experience and expertise.
A porter can help carry your luggage, leaving you free to focus on the trek itself. They can carry up to 30 kilograms of weight and can make your trek more comfortable by lightening your load. Hiring a porter costs between $15 to $25 USD per day, depending on the weight of your luggage and the distance you will be traveling.
When hiring a guide or a porter, it’s important to choose a reputable agency or individual. I also highly suggest hiring a government license holder to guide those who plan to trek to the Everest base camp. Besides, Hiring someone through a reputable agency can provide added security and peace of mind.
Overall, hiring a guide or a porter can be a worthwhile investment for a more enjoyable and hassle-free Everest Base Camp Trek.
So, how much does it cost to trek Everest Base Camp? Well, the total cost of the 10-day Everest Base Camp Trek can range from $1200 to $2100 USD per person. However, it depends on the level of comfort you seek and the duration of your trek. In addition to the costs already mentioned, such as permits, food, accommodation, and hiring a guide or porter. It’s also a good idea to budget for additional expenses. Such as equipment rentals or purchases, travel insurance, and emergency expenses. It’s a good idea to carry some extra cash with you on the trek in case of emergencies or unexpected expenses.
The Everest Three High Pass Trek blends the Gokyo Lake, Everest Base Camp, Kalapathar, Khumbu Glacier, Khumbu Icefall, Ngazumpa Glacier and Gokyo Ri viewpoint. While the cost of the trek may seem significant, the experience of trekking to Everest Base Camp is truly priceless. The breathtaking views, unique cultural experiences, and personal achievements make the investment in the trek well worth it. It’s important to fully immerse yourself in the experience, taking time to appreciate the natural beauty of the region. Likewise interacting with the local people, and learning about their way of life.
Ultimately, the memories and experiences gained from the trek will last a lifetime, making it a truly unforgettable adventure. So, make sure to plan your budget accordingly, and stay open to new experiences of lifetime adventures.