Lukla to Everest Base Camp Trek Distance
The legendary trek from Lukla to Everest Base Camp encompasses a round-trip distance of approximately 127-130 km. While the outbound journey of 65 km to Base Camp requires more time for acclimatization, this guide will assist you in navigating the distance and preparing you for the extraordinary experience of the Everest Base Camp Trek.
Lukla to Everest Base Camp Trek Walking Distance
The distance of 127-130 km may vary in perception depending on one's trekking experience. However, considering the average walking speed of 5 km per hour, it is not a particularly long distance. Moreover, the trek becomes easier as porters can carry larger bags unless you are trekking solo.
The Everest region is renowned as one of the world's most magnificent hiking destinations. Our Everest Base Camp Trek begins with a thrilling flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, a 9,000-foot airstrip. From there, we follow the traditional expedition route to the Khumbu region's Sherpa capital, Namche Bazaar. As we trek alongside the powerful Imja Khola River, we encounter picturesque Sherpa villages, immersing ourselves in their rich culture.
One of the highlights is Tengboche, home to Nepal's famous monastery, nestled against the backdrop of Everest and Ama Dablam. The journey to Everest Base Camp takes us close to the breathtaking "Khumbu Icefall," the route of the first Everest ascent. We also offer the option to hike to Kala Pattar's summit at 18,188 feet, providing extraordinary views of Nuptse, Everest, and Lhotse. This fully-supported trek at an easy pace offers a remarkable introduction to Nepal's trekking and a unique glimpse into the Sherpa culture, the land of Mount Everest. A true Himalayan classic! Our Everest Lodge Treks are part of the Classic EBC Himalayan Trek Series, allowing you to reach Everest Base Camp either from Kathmandu or Lukla. Led by experienced English-speaking Nepali guides and supported by porter staff, our Classic Treks ensure a memorable and well-supported journey.
Day-to-Day Distancing of EBC Trek Itinerary
Day 01: Kathmandu 1360m
Day 02: Kathmandu- Lukla- Phakding 2652m, 3 hours trekking
Day 03: Phakding- Monjo 2835m- Namche Bazaar 3446m, 7 hours trekking
Day 04: Namche Bazaar 3446m, Hike 4 hour
Day 05: Namche Bazaar- Tengboche 3,860m, 4 hours trekking
Day 06: Tengboche- Dingboche 4084m, 5 hours trekking
Day 07: Dingboche acclimatization Nagarjun Hill 5100m, Hike 4 hour
Day 08: Dingboche- Lobuche 4930m, 5-6 hours trekking
Day 09: Lobuche- Gorak Shep 5160m- Everest Base Camp- Gorak Shep, 9 hours trekking
Day 10: Gorak Shep- Kala Patthar 5,644m- Pheriche 4252m
Day 11: Pheriche- Tengboche 3875m- Namche Bazaar, 3440m 7 hours trekking
Day 12: Namche Bazaar- Lukla 2800m, 7-8 hours trekking
Day 13: Lukla- Kathmandu, 30-minute flight to Kathmandu
Day 14: Katmandu Departure
Lukla to Everest Base Camp Trek Distance Map
The Lukla to Everest Base Camp trek begins and ends in Lukla, passing through villages like Phakding and Monjo along the Dudh Koshi River. It ascends through Sagarmatha National Park, reaching Namche Bazaar and continuing along the Imja Khola River through Tengboche, Dingboche, and Lobuche villages. The trail leads to Gorak Shep, near the base camp of Mt. Everest. Hiking to Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar provides stunning views. The trek retraces its path back to Lukla, covering the same villages and landmarks.
Major attractions of Everest Base Camp
Lukla (Tenzing Hillary Airport)
The construction of Lukla airport in 1964, overseen by Sir Edmund Hillary, who along with Tenzing Norgay Sherpa was the first to summit Mount Everest in 1953, significantly reduced the time required to reach Everest Base Camp. Before the airport's existence, the trek to Base Camp would take approximately a month due to the absence of shorter routes and transportation options. Lukla Airport played a vital role in making the journey more accessible and time-efficient.
Namche Bazaar, the trade center and gateway to Everest Base Camp
Namche Bazaar, the largest settlement along the Lukla to Everest Base Camp trek route, is a charming town nestled amidst majestic mountains. Originally a small trading post for Sherpa communities, it has evolved into a bustling hub at an elevation of 12,000 feet. With a rich history as a key junction on the ancient salt trade route between Tibet and Nepal, Namche Bazaar still reflects its traditional culture and warm hospitality. Alongside the usual amenities like hotels and restaurants, visitors can also find a pub, Wi-Fi facilities, and recreational activities like a pool. Taking a few days to acclimatize in this vibrant town is recommended, as acclimatization is a gradual process at a high altitude.
Tengboche Monastery, the largest in the Khumbu region
Tengboche Monastery, established in the 19th century, is the largest monastery in the Khumbu region. It serves as a significant sacred site along the Everest Base Camp route, attracting visitors for prayer and meditation in its prayer room. Situated at the confluence of the Imja Khola and Dudh Koshi rivers, the monastery offers a stunning backdrop of Mount Amadablam and holds great importance in the Sherpa religion, which blends Tibetan Buddhism with shamanic and animist elements. The monastery hosts the renowned Mani Rimdu festival in November, featuring mask dances that symbolize the victory of Buddhism over the Bon faith and the triumph of good over evil.
Sagarmatha National Park, UNESCO World Heritage Site
Sagarmatha National Park, located in the Khumbu region of Nepal, covers an area of 1,148 square kilometers. It encompasses the upper catchment areas of the Dudhkoshi and Bhotehoshi Rivers and features rugged terrain and gorges in the high Himalayas. The park includes peaks like Sagarmatha (Mt. Everest), Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Thamserku, Nuptse, Amadablam, and Pumori. The region is inhabited by the Sherpa people, deeply connected to Buddhism, with monasteries like Tengboche, Thame, Khumjung, and Pangboche serving as significant cultural centers. Due to its exceptional natural features, Sagarmatha National Park was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.
Kala Pathar to enjoy the 360-degree panoramic
Kala Patthar offers an unparalleled, unobstructed view of Mount Everest, making it a sought-after spot for trekkers. Standing at an impressive altitude of 5,643 meters (18,514 feet), Kala Patthar is not just a viewpoint but also higher than four of the seven summits. A trek to Kala Patthar is a remarkable journey that will leave you with cherished memories for a lifetime. If you're planning to visit, here are some tips to make the most of your experience.
Everest Base Camp, the foothill of Mount Everest
Everest Base Camp serves as a preparatory camp for climbers embarking on the ascent of the world's highest mountain. There are two base camps for Mount Everest: the North Base Camp in Tibet and the South Base Camp in Nepal. The Nepalese camp, known as Everest Base Camp (EBC), is the more commonly referred to one. Situated in Nepal's Khumbu region, approximately 150 kilometers (90 miles) northeast of Kathmandu, EBC sits at an altitude of 5,364 meters (17,598 feet).
Nepal Nomad is a Kathmandu-based adventure company specializing in sustainable trekking, touring, and peak climbing services in the Himalayas. Our priority is to simplify your journey selection, prioritize your safety, and provide the desired level of adventure. With our commitment to honesty and accurate information, we offer full support and address any inquiries or concerns you may have. Contact us for the ultimate travel experience in Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan.
