Everest Circuit Trek – 12 Days
Overview
- Country Nepal
- Trip Grade Moderate to Challenging
- Maximum Altitude 5,545 m (Kala Patthar)
- Starts Kathmandu
- Ends Kathmandu
- Group Size Min 2 trekkers
- Bst Time Spring (Mar-May) & Autumn (Sep-Nov)
Overview Description
The Everest Circuit Trek is Nepal’s most iconic high-altitude adventure, offering unparalleled mountain views and cultural experiences. The trek passes through lush forests, suspension bridges, and Sherpa villages before reaching the high alpine landscapes of the Khumbu region.
The trail winds through Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, home to glaciers, dramatic peaks, and diverse wildlife. Along the way, trekkers will visit villages such as Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Dingboche, where traditional Sherpa culture thrives, prayer flags flutter in the wind, and ancient monasteries still play an important spiritual role.
The trek’s highlight is reaching Everest Base Camp (5,364 m), where climbers from around the world prepare to ascend the world’s highest peak. You’ll also enjoy panoramic views from Kala Patthar (5,545 m), one of the best viewpoints in the region.
The Everest Base Camp Trek is rated moderate to challenging. Trekkers walk 5–8 hours per day, with gradual altitude gain and included acclimatization days to reduce the risk of altitude sickness. No technical climbing skills are required, but a good level of fitness and mental preparation is recommended.
When To Visit
Itinerary
Arrive in Kathmandu. Transfer to hotel, explore Thamel, and attend a trek briefing.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Welcome Dinner
Scenic flight to Lukla. Trek through forests and villages to Phakding.
Walking Hours: 3-4
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek along the Dudh Koshi River, cross suspension bridges, and enter Sagarmatha National Park. Arrive at Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa capital.
Walking Hours: 5-6
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional hike to Tengboche Monastery or local viewpoints for acclimatization.
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek through rhododendron forests and villages to Tengboche, home to a famous monastery with Himalayan views.
Walking Hours: 5-6
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Continue along the Imja Khola Valley, passing Chhukung and Pangboche. High alpine landscapes appear.
Walking Hours: 5-6
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional hike to Nagarjun Hill or nearby ridges. Prepare for higher altitude trekking.
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Ascend through rocky terrain, with panoramic views of peaks like Pumori and Nuptse.
Walking Hours: 5-6
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Reach the legendary Everest Base Camp and explore the Khumbu Icefall. Descend to Gorak Shep for overnight stay.
Walking Hours: 7-8
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike to Kala Patthar for sunrise views of Everest and surrounding peaks. Descend to Pheriche.
Walking Hours: 6-7
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Descend to Lukla, board flight to Kathmandu, and transfer to hotel or airport for onward journey.
Walking Hours: 6-7
Accommodation: –
Meals: Breakfast
Today is your last day in Nepal. Our team will transfer you to the airport for your onward journey. We hope you leave with unforgettable memories and a desire to return for more adventures.
Cost Details
Cost Includes
- Airport transfers
- 2 nights hotel in Kathmandu
- Teahouse accommodation during trek
- All meals during trekking
- Sagarmatha National Park Permit & TIMS Card
- Licensed guide and porter
- Transportation (Kathmandu–Lukla–Kathmandu flights)
- First aid kit
Cost Excludes
- International airfare
- Nepal visa fee
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Hot showers / Wi-Fi charges
- Tips for guide and porter
Trek Essentials
Head & Hands
- Sun hat / cap for daytime walking
- Warm fleece or wool beanie for cold nights
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Buff or neck gaiter
- Lightweight liner gloves
- Warm insulated gloves (for higher altitudes)
Upper Body Clothing
- Moisture‑wicking base layers
- Trekking T-shirts
- Fleece jacket or mid-layer
- Waterproof/windproof outer shell
- Down jacket for cold evenings & high passes
Lower Body Clothing & Footwear
- Trekking pants (quick-dry)
- Thermal base layer bottoms
- Waterproof shell pants
- Sturdy trekking boots
- Trekking socks (wool/synthetic, multiple pairs)
- Sandals / camp shoes
- Gaiters if needed
Backpacks & Gear
- Main duffel bag for porter
- Daypack (30–40 L) with rain cover
- Sleeping bag (-10°C to -15°C)
- Headlamp & extra batteries
- Trekking poles (adjustable)
- Water bottles / hydration bladder
- Water purification tablets or filter
Personal & Safety Essentials
- Sunscreen & lip balm (SPF 50+)
- Basic first aid kit
- Reusable water bottle
- Power bank / spare batteries
- Quick-dry towel & toiletries
Documents & Permits
- Passport & Nepal visa
- Sagarmatha National Park Permit + TIMS Card
- Travel insurance info
- Emergency contacts
What Our Customer Says
FAQs
Guides are not mandatory, but highly recommended for safety, permits, and local knowledge.
- Sagarmatha National Park Permit
TIMS Card
Guides or agencies can arrange these.
Approximately USD 40–50 per person.
Moderate to challenging; 5–8 hours/day with altitude gain. Proper acclimatization is required.
Spring (Mar–May) and Autumn (Sep–Nov).
Technically possible but not recommended due to slippery trails or heavy snow.
Yes, above 3,000 m. Acclimatization, hydration, and slow pacing reduce risks.
Only in Kathmandu and Namche Bazaar. Carry sufficient Nepalese rupees.
Packages typically range USD 1,000–2,000 per person for 11 days.
Basic facilities available in villages. Serious emergencies require evacuation to Kathmandu. Insurance covering helicopter rescue is essential.
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