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Everest Base Camp Budget Trek

Everest Base Camp Budget Trek - 12 Days

Overview and Highlights

Key Information

Best Seasons

Sep to Dec/March to June

Group Size

+2

Duration

12 Days

Trek Difficulty

Moderate

Maximum Altitude

5,364m-17,598ft

Accommodation

Lodge/Teahouse

Meal

Lunch/Dinner/Breakfast

Region

Everest

Country

Nepal

Activity

Trekking

Destination

Everest Base Camp

Trip Starts

Kathmandu

Trips Ends

Kathmandu

Highlights of Everest Base Camp Budget Trek

  • Landing at Lukla airport, listed as the world's most dangerous airport.
  • Conquer the world's highest base camp! Experience the thrill of trekking to Everest Base Camp.
  • Visit Kalapatthar to see Mount Everest and countless other mountains up close.
  • Explore Khumbu's largest monastery.
  • Immerse yourself in Nepalese culture! Meet friendly locals, and learn about the unique Sherpa culture, customs and traditions.
  • Visit Sagarmatha National Park ( UNESCO World Heritage Site).
  • Marvel at breathtaking scenery every step of the way! Witness stunning landscapes, soaring peaks, and glaciers.
  • Get up close and personal with legendary landmarks! Explore iconic sites like the Khumbu Icefall, Khumbu Glacier the Sherpa village of Namche Bazaar, and the Tengboche Monastery.

Looking to trek to the Himalayan base camp of the world's highest mountain (Mount Everest), but are worried about the Everest base camp trek costs? trekking to Everest Base Camp on a budget is a great way to experience the Everest Region fully. Our Everest base camp budget trek guide will cover everything you need to know about planning a budget-friendly trip.

Nepal Everest Base Camp is located at an elevation of 5,364 meters (17,598 feet). It takes approximately 12 days to trek from Lukla to Everest Base Camp. Considering there are no roads between Kathmandu and Lukla airport, a significant part of your budget should be devoted to flights. Trek to Everest base camp is quite far away, but you don't have to break the bank to visit it.

Accommodation and Food on Everest Base Camp Budget Trek 2023/2024

One of the most significant expenses on any trek is accommodation and food. For a budget-friendly Everest base camp trek price, stay at guesthouses and tea houses throughout the trek. These options offer simple but comfortable rooms with shared bathroom facilities. Meanwhile, they also provide filling meals at a reasonable price. Furthermore, this "Everest Base Camp Trek 2023" blog will make your trip more comfortable.

Alternative Trekking Routes

For those who want to enjoy the stunning scenery of the Himalayas without breaking the bank, there are budget-friendly alternatives to Everest base camp trek packages, the most popular trek to the Annapurna Base Camp, which offers a similar experience but is less crowded and less expensive. Likewise, Everest base camp helicopter Tour and Everest Base Camp Trek And Fly Back By Helicopter, this trek is for those who are looking for a short and easy trip.

Another option is Langtang Trek, where you can trek to Kyanjin Gompa and enjoy breathtaking views of Langtang Lirung and other peaks. Both these treks are more affordable compared to the Everest base camp trek –multiland and offer a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Nepal's mountains. Additionally, travelling during the off-season when prices are lower and avoiding peak season can also help you save money.

Major Attractions During Everest Base Camp Budget Trek

The Everest Base Camp budget trekking offers a chance to experience some of the most stunning natural beauty in the world. Along the way, trekkers will see the dramatic mountain views and scenery, including views of Mount Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Mt. Ama Dablam, Makalu, Mt. Cho Oyu and other peaks in the region. As you walk the Everest Base Camp Trail, you will see Buddhist flags, prayer wheels, Tibetan or Sherpal villages, forests infested with Rhododendron, and hear Buddhist chants.

Trekkers will also explore Namche Bazaar, the largest Sherpa village in the Khumbu region, Everest View Hotel, Tengboche Monastery (Tengboche village), Khumjung Monastery, Sagarmatha National Park (UNESCO world heritage site), and experience the unique culture and customs of the region along the Everest Base Camp trail.

In addition to your Budget Everest base camp trek 12 days itinerary, the tour follows Lukla, Namche Bazar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, Gorekshep and finally Mt. Everest Base Camp and highest point Kala Patthar. 

Final Thoughts

The Everest base camp budget trek doesn't have to be a budget-busting adventure. With proper planning and research, you can find affordable options for accommodation, Himalayan food, transportation, and more. Whether you're looking for a cheap Everest base camp trek or a budget-friendly Mount Everest base camp trek, you can make your dream a reality. Budget Everest Base Camp trekking package includes the following services: On this 12-day Everest Base Camp Budget Trek, we will provide trekking permits (Sagarmatha national park entry permits & Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality fee), an experienced guide for Everest Base Camp Budget Trek 12 days, transportation and a domestic flight ticket. Although this is a budget trek in Nepal, you will enjoy the same high-quality services and facilities as those on a regular 14 Days Everest base camp trek. So start planning your Nepal trekking tour today and make memories that will last a lifetime!

Moreover, the Autumn and spring months are the best time for Budget Everest base camp Trek: September to November and March to May. Finally, if you want to understand more things click here: How to Trek to Everest Base Camp in a Low Budget? And don't forget your hiking equipment list.

Itinerary Expand All Close All

Elevation
1400

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel where you can rest and adjust to the time difference.

Elevation
2840

Take an early morning flight from Kathmandu to Lukla and then start your trek towards Phakding. The trek is approximately 3-4 hours and will allow you to acclimate to the higher altitude.

Elevation
3440

The trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar will take approximately 6-7 hours. The trail passes through the Dudh Koshi River and the Sagarmatha National Park, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Elevation
3440

Take a rest day in Namche Bazaar to acclimate to the higher altitude and explore the town and its surrounding area.

Elevation
3860

Today's trek takes you from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche, taking approximately 5-6 hours. The trail passes through beautiful forests and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Ama Dablam.

Elevation
4410

The trek from Tengboche to Dingboche will take approximately 5-6 hours and passes through beautiful landscapes and high-altitude alpine forests.

Elevation
4910

Today's trek takes you from Dingboche to Lobuche, taking approximately 5-6 hours. The trail passes through beautiful landscapes, including the Thukla, where we take our lunch there.

Elevation
5364

Trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep, taking approximately 3-4 hours, and then hike to Everest Base Camp, which takes about 4-5 hours both ways. Explore the area and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Elevation
4371

Wake up early and hike to Kala Patthar for sunrise, which offers panoramic views of Mount Everest and the surrounding peaks. Return back to Pheriche for the night.

Elevation
3440

Day 10 of the Everest Base Camp trek is an important transition day as you move from the high-altitude village of Pheriche to the bustling hub of Namche Bazaar. This day is usually a long but relatively easy day, with a steep descent to Pheriche and a gentle ascent to Namche Bazaar. The trail will lead you through the forests and rhododendron groves and will offer you stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

The journey from Pheriche to Namche Bazaar is approximately 10 to 12 km and takes about 6 to 7 hours to complete.

Elevation
2840

On day 11 of your trek, you will be leaving Namche Bazaar and making your way back to Lukla. This will be your last day on the trail and you'll have the opportunity to reflect on your journey and the amazing experiences you've had so far. The trail from Namche to Lukla is well-trodden and follows a downhill path, so you can expect a relatively easy day of trekking.

Elevation
1400

Take an early morning flight back to Kathmandu, where you can rest and reflect on the amazing adventure you just had.

Cost Includes

  • All private Ground Transportation Including Airport Transfers.
  • 2 Nights’ standers Hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast (on the arrival day and after the Trekking).
  • Domestic Flight Ticket (Ktm-Lukla, Luk-Ktm) / domestic airport Tax.
  • All accommodations in lodges/Tea Houses During the Treks.
  • Sagarmatha national park entry permits & Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality fee.
  • Sleeping Bag, Down Jacket if you need (Return After the Trip)
  • A first aid kit will be Available.
  • Trekking T-shirt, Trekking map.
  • Luggage Storage Facility in Kathmandu 
  • Oximeter To Check your pulse And Oxygen Saturation And Heart Rate (Very Useful To Check Altitude Sickness Symptom)
  • one professional And Licensed holder trekking Guide(Lukla to Lukla)
  • Water purification tablets for safe drinking water.
  •  staff Insurance.
  • Trip Complete Certificate 
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu.

Cost Excludes

  • International Airfares, Nepal Visa Fee, Travel Insurance
  • Meals in Kathmandu and all meals/ drinks during the trek
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu due to Early arrival or late departure, or early return from the trek.
  • City tour Sightseeing entry fees.
  • Personal expenses laundry, telephone calls, snacks, camera, and mobile battery charging.
  • porter to carry your bag during the trek (one porter between two trekkers is recommended)
  • Personal hiking equipment list.
  • Tips for staff (it is expected)

Altitude Graph

Route Map

FAQs

The best time to trek to Everest Base Camp is from September to November and from March to May when the weather is clear and visibility is good.

The trek to Everest Base Camp takes approximately 12 to 14 days, depending on your pace and the route you take.

The Everest Base Camp trek is considered a strenuous trek, but it is accessible to most physically fit individuals. Hiking for 6 to 8 hours per day at high altitudes can be challenging.

The cost of the Everest Base Camp trek varies depending on the time of year, your group size, and the level of comfort you desire. On average, the cost is around $1,000 to $2,500 per person.

While it is not necessary to have a guide for the Everest Base Camp trek, it is highly recommended for safety reasons. A guide can help you navigate the trail, handle any emergencies, and provide information about the local culture and history.

The two most popular routes for the Everest Base Camp trek are the classic route, which starts in Lukla, and the Jiri to Everest Base Camp route, which is a longer and more challenging option.

It is recommended to budget around $35 to $45 per day for food and drinks during the Everest Base Camp trek.

You should pack a warm sleeping bag, a down jacket, a hat, gloves, a good quality waterproof jacket, comfortable hiking shoes, a headlamp, and a water bottle, among other essentials.

The highest elevation on the Everest Base Camp trek is at Kala Patthar, which is 5,550 meters (18, 204 feet) above sea level.

The temperature at Everest Base Camp can vary greatly depending on the time of year and the weather. Everest base camp temperature during the day, the temperature can range from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F), while at night it can drop to below 0°C (32°F).

The best way to acclimate to the high altitude on the Everest Base Camp trek is to take your time, hike at a slow pace, and spend extra time at each elevation before moving on to higher elevations.

The best way to avoid altitude sickness on the Everest Base Camp trek is to drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol and cigarettes, and take it easy during the first few days to allow your body to acclimate.

You can trek to Everest Base Camp alone, but it is generally recommended to join a group for safety reasons.

Teahouse trekking involves staying in local teahouses and lodges during a trekking journey. These teahouses and lodges offer basic accommodations and meals, usually with shared bathroom facilities. Teahouse trekking is a popular option for trekkers, as it allows them to experience local culture and cuisine while also being more affordable compared to camping trekking.

What is teahouse trekking?

Teahouse trekking is a type of trekking where trekkers stay in local teahouses and lodges during their journey, offering basic accommodations and meals with shared bathroom facilities.

Why choose teahouse trekking over camping trekking?

Teahouse trekking is more affordable compared to camping trekking and allows trekkers to experience local culture and cuisine.

Are teahouses and lodges comfortable?

Teahouses and lodges offer basic accommodations, with shared bathroom facilities. They are not as luxurious as hotels but are comfortable enough for trekkers to have a good night's sleep.

What kind of meals are offered at teahouses?

Teahouses offer local cuisine, usually consisting of simple meals such as dal Bhat (a traditional Nepalese dish made of lentils and rice), soup, pasta, and other simple dishes.

Is it safe to stay in teahouses during a trek?

Teahouses and lodges are generally safe for trekkers, but it is always advisable to take necessary safety measures and to be aware of the local area and customs.

Are teahouses and lodges clean?

Teahouses and lodges are usually kept clean, but the level of cleanliness may vary from place to place. It is always a good idea to bring your own sleeping bag and other essentials to ensure you have a comfortable stay.

Are teahouses and lodges equipped with basic facilities?

Teahouses and lodges usually have basic facilities such as a shared bathroom, hot water for showers, and sometimes electricity. However, the facilities may vary from place to place, so it is important to research the specific teahouse or lodge you plan to stay at.

Can you charge your electronics at teahouses?

Teahouses and lodges usually have a limited supply of electricity, so it is a good idea to bring a portable power bank to ensure you can charge your electronics.

What is the cost of staying in teahouses?

The cost of staying in teahouses varies, but it is generally more affordable compared to staying in hotels. The cost will depend on the specific teahouse or lodge, as well as the location and season.
 

Additional Information

Trekking to the base camp of the world's tallest mountain, Mount Everest, is a dream for many adventurers. But, it can often seem like a daunting and expensive task.

However, with proper planning and research, it is possible to undertake this incredible journey on the Everest base camp budget.

Preparation

The key to a successful and budget-friendly trek to the Everest Base Camp is preparation. The best way to start is by researching the best time to go, considering the weather conditions, availability of guides and porters, and the best seasons. The best time to trek Everest base camp is from September to November and from March to May when the Everest base camp weather is clear and stable, and there are fewer tourists. It's also important to familiarize yourself with Nepal trekking seasons as some trails may not be open or safe for you to traverse during certain times of the year. For example, trails may be blocked by snow during winter months or may become unstable due to inclement weather during the monsoon season (May-August).

Next, you will need to gather all the necessary hiking equipment list and gear, such as a good pair of trekking shoes, warm clothing, a sleeping bag, a first aid kit, and other essentials. You can either purchase or rent these items in Kathmandu or Lukla, the starting point of the trek.

Finding the Right Guide and Porter

Having a knowledgeable and experienced guide is crucial for a successful and safe trek to the Everest Base Camp. Northern Trekking Team provides guides with good reviews and a proven track record. As well as a porter to carry your heavy gear, freeing you up to focus on the trek itself.

Accommodation

One of the biggest expenses during a trek to the Everest Base Camp is accommodation. To keep the costs low, consider staying in teahouses along the way, rather than booking a hotel in advance. Teahouses are basic lodges that provide food and a place to sleep, and they are located in every village along the trek.

Food and Drink

Food and drink can also be a significant expense during a trek to the Mount Everest base camp. To keep the costs low, bring non-perishable snacks and energy bars, and eat simple and filling meals, such as Dal Bhat, a traditional Himalayan food, at the teahouses along the way.

Drinking plenty of water is essential for staying hydrated and avoiding altitude sickness. You can refill your water bottles at the teahouses or bring a drinking water purification system.

Health and Fitness Preparation For Everest Base Camp Budget Trek

Before embarking on the budget trek to Everest Base Camp, it is essential to prepare for your choice of health and fitness. This involves regular exercise and conditioning, as the hike can be physically demanding and challenging, especially with the altitude, and the elevation of the base camp being over 5,364 meters. It is recommended to consult a doctor for a check-up and advice on managing altitude sickness, which can be a concern at the mount Everest base camp height.

Cost breakdown of trek expenses

The cost of the trek can vary greatly, but a breakdown of expenses can help you budget and plan accordingly. This includes the cost of international flights, visas, permits, TIMS cards, equipment and gear, accommodation, food and drinks. It's essential to keep in mind the cost of the Everest base camp trek to make sure you are staying within your budget.

Altitude Sickness Prevention and Management

Altitude sickness can be a concern during the Everest Base Camp Trek, with the mount Everest base camp elevation reaching over 5,364 meters. To prevent and manage altitude sickness, it is recommended to acclimatize slowly, drink plenty of water, and seek medical help if necessary.

Packing List and Recommended Gear

To ensure a successful and budget-friendly trek, it's important to bring the right gear and equipment. This includes a good pair of trekking shoes, warm clothing, a sleeping bag, a first aid kit, and other essentials. We recommended a clear backpack, as a heavy backpack can be challenging to carry, especially during the trek to Everest base camp.

Meal Options and Snacks

Food and drink can be a significant expense during the trek, so choosing budget-friendly options are crucial. Simple and filling meals such as Dal Bhat, a traditional Nepali dish, can be found at the teahouses along the way, and non-perishable snacks and energy bars can be brought from home.

Travel Insurance For Mount Everest Base Camp Budget Trek

It is crucial to have Travel insurance for any emergency that may arise during the trek. Look for an excellent insurance company that covers medical expenses, and other important aspects.

Preparing for Emergencies and Safety Measures

Safety should always be a top priority during the trek to Everest Base Camp. It is important to prepare for emergencies by having a first aid kit, knowing basic first aid, and having a plan in case of an emergency. It's also a good idea to inform Northern Trekking Team of your itinerary and check in regularly.

Recommended Budget-friendly Itineraries

There are several budget-friendly itineraries available for the trek to Everest Base Camp, ranging from 12 to 21 days. It is recommended to check the best treks in Nepal and choose the best itinerary that fits your budget and schedule.

Local Guides and Porter Services on Everest Base Camp Budget Trek

Having a knowledgeable and experienced guide is crucial for a successful and safe trek. Look for budget-friendly local guides and porter services that offer the best value for your money, taking into account their reputation, reviews, and track record. Negotiate the price and agree on the terms before starting the trek. Consider joining a group trek, where the cost of the guide and porter can be shared among the members, as this is a budget-friendly option. It is also important to make sure that your guide and porter have proper insurance, equipment, and gear for the trek, and that they are trained in altitude sickness prevention and management, as well as emergency response.

Everest Base Camp Budget Trek difficulty

The difficulty level of the Everest Base Camp budget trek can vary depending on various factors such as the individual's physical fitness, altitude, weather conditions, and trail conditions. However, on average, the trek can be considered as a moderate to challenging level due to the long daily hikes and high altitudes that the trekker needs to acclimate to. It's essential to properly prepare and train beforehand, as well as to acclimate gradually to the altitude.

Tea House Trekking in Nepal and Camping Options

Accommodation is one of the biggest expenses during a trek to the Everest Base Camp. To keep costs low, consider staying in teahouses along the way, which are basic lodges that provide food and a place to sleep in every village along the trek. Another budget-friendly option is to bring a tent and camp along the way, giving you the flexibility to choose your campsites and save money on accommodation costs. It is recommended to research and compare the cost and quality of teahouses and camping options along the trek, taking into account the elevation and the weather conditions, especially during the peak trekking seasons.

Meal Options and Snacks

Food and drink can also be a significant expense during a trek to the Everest Base Camp. To keep costs low, bring non-perishable snacks and energy bars, and eat simple and filling meals, such as Dal Bhat, a traditional Nepali dish, at the teahouses along the way. Drinking plenty of water is essential for staying hydrated and avoiding altitude sickness. You can refill your water bottles at the teahouses or bring a drinking water purification system. It is recommended to research and compare the prices and options of food and drink along the trek, taking into account the availability, quality, and cultural significance of the local cuisine.

Tips for Saving Money and Sticking to a Budget

Tips for saving money and sticking to a budget during a trek to Everest Base Camp include researching the best time to go, taking into account the weather conditions, availability of guides and porters, and peak tourist seasons, staying in teahouses or camping, eating simple and filling meals, and negotiating the price of a guide and porter. Another tip is to bring non-perishable snacks and energy bars, refill water bottles at teahouses, and bring a water purification system.

Consider budget-friendly insurance options, prepare for emergencies and safety measures, and choose budget-friendly flight options to and from Nepal. Look for budget-friendly meal options and snacks, and create a detailed cost breakdown of all expenses to ensure that you stay within your budget. By following these tips, you can undertake a successful budget trek to the Everest Base Camp and achieve your dream without breaking the bank.

Experience of Past Trekkers and their Tips and Recommendations

Past trekkers of the famous Everest Base Camp trek have a wealth of experience and insights to share. These individuals can provide valuable tips and recommendations on everything from health and fitness preparation, budget-friendly flight options, cost breakdowns of trek expenses, altitude sickness prevention and management, essential trekking permits and visas, trekking equipment and recommended gear, budget-friendly meal options and snacks, budget-friendly insurance options, emergency preparation, recommended budget itineraries, budget-friendly local guides and porter services, budget-friendly teahouses and camping options, tips for saving money, and budget-friendly alternatives to the trek. The experience of past trekkers can be a valuable resource for those considering the trek, as it provides a glimpse into what to expect and what to plan for.

Conclusion

Trekking to the Everest Base Camp on a budget is possible with proper planning and preparation. By researching the best time to go, gathering necessary equipment and gear, finding the right guide and porter, staying in teahouses or camping, and eating simple meals, you can undertake this incredible journey without breaking the bank.

We hope this guide has been helpful and provided you with the information you need to plan and execute a successful budget trek to the Everest Base Camp. Happy trekking!

 

CUSTOMER REVIEWS

  • Based on 3 Reviews

Sari | United States | On 26th Sep, 2023

1 Excellent

Trekking to Mount Everest Base Camp

I went trekking with two friends to Mount Everest Base Camp with Mingmar as our guide. It was an amazing trip, and Mingmar was the best guide we could hope for. As people from Denmark we were not used to heights and we of course experienced altitude sickness. However, Mingmar checked up on us a lot, and helped with everything and made sure we were safe all the time. He has a lot of experience and we felt safe and in good hands the whole time. Besides, we had some good conversations and got to know a lot that we would not otherwise have known if we did not have a guided.
The route is amazing with such beautiful nature. I would surely recommend it to anyone who likes trekking and likes being in nature.


Anthony Y | Canada | On 26th Sep, 2023

1 Excellent

Amazing Hike

We had to opportunity to go to Nepal, specifically for a hike of a lifetime... Mount Everest!
We met Mingmar in Lukla - our first leg of the hike! Mingmar was well prepared, even though our luggage wasn't (sitting at Kathmandu) but Mingmar made sure it arrived to us in Namche Bazaar.
Mingmar made our hike entertaining, he was informative, and most of all watched over us during the hike and made sure we were well taken care of at each TeaHouse where we stayed.
Mingmar ensured our amazing adventure was secure and safe, I would highly encourage anyone wanting an amazing Guide... Please use Mingmar!!


Saeed ahmed A | Saudi Arabia | On 26th Sep, 2023

1 Excellent

Wow great company

Excellent team! From the moment we set foot in Kathmandu, their warm welcome and attention to detail made the entire trip seamless. The well-organized lodges and hearty meals along the way were a comforting treat after long days of trekking. The fellowship among the team and fellow trekkers created a fantastic atmosphere, adding to the sense of accomplishment upon reaching Everest Base Camp. I highly recommend embarking on this adventure with the Northern Trekking Team, for an experience that will leave you in awe of the Himalayan beauty and with memories to last a lifetime.


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Everest Base Camp Budget Trek

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