Everest Base Camp Trek 2026: Route, Cost, Permits & How Long It Takes

How long is the Everest Base Camp trek? The classic Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek takes 12–14 days round trip from Kathmandu, covering roughly 130 km with the high point at Kala Patthar (5,545 m) for the closest view of Everest. This guide breaks down the 2026 route, permits, cost, and fitness needed — based on current Nepal Tourism Board and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality rules.

Classic EBC route (south, via Lukla)

Most trekkers fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,860 m), then walk through Phakding, Namche Bazaar (3,440 m), Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche and Gorak Shep to Base Camp (5,364 m). The standard schedule builds acclimatization days at Namche and Dingboche — skipping them is the most common cause of altitude sickness.

Segment	Distance	Sleeping altitude
Lukla → Phakding	8 km	2,610 m
Namche Bazaar (acclimatization)	—	3,440 m
Namche → Tengboche	10 km	3,867 m
Dingboche (acclimatization)	—	4,410 m
Gorak Shep → EBC	3 km	5,164 m

Permits you need in 2026

• Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality permit — NPR 2,000 per week (approx. from the local ward office in Lukla/Monjo).
• Sagarmatha National Park entry — NPR 3,000 for foreigners.
• TIMS card — required for all trekkers; organized groups use the blue card.

EBC trek cost breakdown (2026, per person)

Independent trekkers spend roughly USD 35–60/day on teahouse lodging and food. A guided trek with permits, a guide, and domestic flights typically runs USD 1,400–2,200. Flights Kathmandu–Lukla are ~USD 180 one way and are weather-dependent — build a buffer day.

Is the EBC trek right for you?

The trek is strenuous but non-technical — no ropes or climbing. Solid cardiovascular fitness and prior multi-day hiking help. Travelers wanting a guided, fixed-itinerary version can explore Enticing Himalayas’ 14-day classic EBC trek. For those short on time, the Everest Base Camp helicopter tour reaches Kala Patthar in a day.

FAQ

When is the best season for EBC?

Pre-monsoon (March–May) and post-monsoon (October–November) offer the clearest skies and stable trails. December–February is cold but quiet; June–September brings monsoon clouds and leeches at lower elevations.

Do I need a guide?

Solo trekking is permitted in the Khumbu, but a licensed guide improves safety and logistics. Since 2023, some restricted areas require guides; the EBC main trail does not, but most travelers choose one.

How hard is the altitude?

Gorak Shep and EBC sit above 5,000 m. Acclimatize properly, hydrate, and know the signs of AMS. Helicopter evacuation is available but costly without insurance.

Featured image: Trekkers at Everest Base Camp, via Wikimedia Commons (CC). Source verified against Nepal Tourism Board permit guidance, 2026.