Can Beginners Trek To Everest Base Camp Trek?
The journey to Everest Base Camp may seem daunting, but fear not, for even novices can undertake this trek properly. Indeed, the trek is not the most difficult in the world, but still, be mentally and physically ready for the journey ahead. Categorized as a trek of moderate difficulty, the Everest Base Camp Trek can be completed by those without any prior trekking experience. However, different individuals have varying endurance levels. Some may traverse for hours without discomfort, while others may experience fatigue and exhaustion within minutes.
Plenty of easier treks are available in Nepal for beginners, where you have to walk for 3-4 hours daily. Comparatively, the EBC entails approximately seven to eight hours of daily walking. This long hour makes this trek slightly more challenging. Additionally, the altitude of the trek is higher than average, making the oxygen levels a significant hurdle to overcome.
The Everest Base Camp Trek is challenging but possible for beginners who have never had trekking experience. Those who have done shorter and easier treks will find it a next-level challenge. However, regular walking or exercise can prepare you for the trek, and altitude adjustment is not the biggest concern, as there will be plenty of time to acclimatize.
Porters are also available to relieve you of the weight on your back, allowing for a more comfortable walk. The trek will take 10-11 days, and while options to take you on horses and helicopters are available, it is necessary to walk most of the distance for the sake of the experience. Those who walk or exercise regularly will be more prepared for the trek than those who rely on vehicles for transportation. Beginners can take time for preparation and accompany their friends on the trek without being too afraid.
here are some challenges that must be considered before setting our for Everest Base Camp Trek:
Extreme and Unpredictable Weather Conditions
Trekking in the Everest region is challenging due to unpredictable weather conditions. Weather predictions are based on previous records and the predisposition of weather change. But strong variations can occur within a single day. Especially during the summer/monsoon and winter months. Spring and autumn are the most constant weather changes. Doing the Everest Base Camp Trek in bad weather is daring and can lead to being stuck in teahouses for days.
The Lukla Airstrip is considered one of the most enthralling airports on the planet. So it requires clear weather and an open sky for safe landing and takeoff. Flight cancellations are more likely during the winter/summer months. The unpredictable weather in the Everest region presents a significant challenge to trekkers. Thus it requires careful planning and preparation.
During spring and autumn, the sunny days at Everest Base Camp have an average temperature of 10-15 degrees Celsius. Likewise, summer temperatures range from 15-20 degrees Celsius. Winter brings heavy snowfall, causing nighttime temperatures to drop to negative 20-25 degrees Celsius. Nevertheless, during the day, hikers can enjoy the stunning snowy landscapes.
Preparing well for unpredictable weather changes that can cause drastic temperature shifts is crucial to complete your trek. Pack properly, stay determined, remain positive, and follow your guide's instructions regardless of the season.
Trekking Distance and Difficulty
The Everest Base Camp Trek typically takes 14 days and involves navigating uphill, downhill, and rocky terrain. This trek requires good physical fitness, and we recommend that prospective trekkers engage in some outdoor activities beforehand. Alternatively, trekkers can take their time and proceed at a slower pace each day to better manage the trek's difficulty. A helicopter tour to the Everest Base Camp is also an option for those who wish to avoid trekking altogether.
There's no need to worry despite the challenges of the trek. Our team of skilled guides will be with you every step of the way. They will offer support and guidance through the trek. Although the trek covers 130km (round trip), you will only walk for 9 out of the 12 days on a typically guided trek. This means that you'll cover approximately 15km per day. This isn't too daunting, considering the average walking pace is about 5km/hour.
However, 15km daily won't be on a flat, paved path. Instead, you'll be trekking on rocky and sometimes snowy terrain (depending on season and altitude), likely slowing down your pace. Additionally, as you generally hike upwards, gaining altitude, the trek becomes more challenging. Fortunately, most tour operators will have porters or mules to carry your bags, so you can concentrate on getting up the trail.
Lukla Flight Delay or Cancellation
Each year, numerous hikers travel by air from Kathmandu to Lukla to commence their trek to Everest Base Camp. Serving as the entrance to the trek, Lukla, which is also known as Tenzing Hillary Airport, is the primary airport catering to visitors heading towards the Everest region. During the peak season, the airport experiences a surge in traffic. So it becomes increasingly crowded with travelers. Lukla Airport poses a unique challenge for pilots due to its location in the Himalayas.
The airport also has a short runway bounded by mountain walls. As a result, flight operations are restricted at Lukla. Likewise, the mountainous region's weather is unpredictable, causing a delay. Inclement weather conditions such as strong winds, low-lying clouds, and poor visibility further contribute to flight disruptions at Lukla Airport. Passenger safety is prioritized during the winter and rainy seasons, and flight delays and cancellations are more common. Moreover, flight delays and cancellations at Lukla Airport are not solely caused by weather conditions. The increased air traffic at Kathmandu airport is also a significant factor.
All individuals journeying through the Everest region should consider the likelihood of flight cancellations and make advanced arrangements accordingly. Hikers can allocate 2-3 days for the EBC trek to ensure all international flights are included. In favorable weather conditions, returning to Kathmandu by air is feasible. One can use the remaining time to unwind, go sightseeing in Kathmandu, or engage in other activities.
Lukla flight Divert to Manthali
During peak trekking seasons from March to May and October to November, there is a significant change in the Lukla flight route. To ease congestion at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) decided in March 2019 to reroute all Kathmandu-Lukla air services from Manthali Airport, Ramechhap. This change reduces the risk of danger during the flight but is time-consuming.
TIA is the only international airport in Kathmandu, accommodating over 400 daily flights. And the diversification of Lukla flights from Manthali Airport is a proactive measure to handle increased congestion. CAAN plans to continue this diversion in the coming years.
Manthali Airport will be the primary hub for flight operations in the upcoming years. Travelers wanting to fly from Lukla during the peak trekking season of March, April, May, October, and November cannot do so. Likewise, Flights from Kathmandu to Lukla will continue as usual during the remaining months. But except during peak trekking months.
As a result, Tara, Summit, and Sita Airlines in Nepal have taken over all Lukla flights from Manthali Airport. This implies that trekkers must travel to Manthali, located 132 km northeast of Kathmandu, to catch their Lukla flight and return via the same route. This may be less ideal, but it is beyond our control.
Some airlines will have early morning flights from Kathmandu to Lukla, but waiting for these flights during the peak season may not be wise as they have limited passenger capacity and cannot be guaranteed ahead of time.
There are limited flight operations from Kathmandu. Also, if the flight is canceled, it will unlikely be rescheduled the following day. Therefore, booking a Lukla flight from Manthali Airport is a safer option. However, outside peak season (autumn and spring), Lukla flight operations will continue from Kathmandu Airport as usual.
High Altitude and Acclimatization
Altitude sickness or AMS manifests through various symptoms like dizziness, vomiting, headaches, blurred vision, etc. These indicators suggest that an individual has ascended to a considerable altitude, particularly during trekking expeditions. The underlying cause of altitude sickness is low oxygen saturation reaching the brain.
Oxygen saturation levels decrease as altitude increases, so altitude sickness, while generally harmless, becomes more concerning above 3500 meters. Since the Everest Base Camp trek takes participants above 5500 meters, altitude sickness poses a significant risk, contributing to the overall difficulty of the journey.
Altitude sickness has three forms AMS, HAPE, and High-altitude (HACE). These stages occur as the condition worsens and transitions from one to another. AMS, or acute mountain sickness, is the mildest altitude sickness here. And the symptoms of AMS are nausea, vomiting, and headaches. Resting for a day or two is usually sufficient to alleviate AMS. However, if left untreated, it can develop into HAPE.
HAPE, also known as High Altitude Pulmonary Edema, involves the accumulation of excess fluid in the lungs. HAPE requires more attention than AMS, and individuals afflicted with HAPE may need to abort their trip. If HAPE remains untreated, it can progress to HACE. HACE, the most severe manifestation of HAPE, occurs when the brain experiences excessive fluid accumulation. HACE is a life-threatening condition that demands immediate medical intervention. The affected individual may fall into a coma or die without proper treatment.
Therefore, altitude sickness, although seemingly straightforward, can have severe consequences. However, taking appropriate measures and precautions can effectively mitigate these risks.
The Everest base camp trek itinerary begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla at 2800 meters. After two days of acclimatization at Namche and Dingboche, you must reach Everest Base Camp at 5,360m and Kala Patthar at 5,545m within eight days. It is essential to acclimatize the body in different places. Trekkers must make some preparation before the trip.
Cardio, walking with a backpack for a few hours each day, and practicing climbing and descents will help make the trek easy and successful. Moreover, staying hydrated and having a warm, liquid diet thought the trek. And sticking to your diet is another way to reduce your risk of altitude sickness.
Basic Accommodation and Facilities
Accommodation during the Everest Base Camp trek is often characterized by simplicity and limited options. Most tea houses along the route are small and basic, frequently bustling with tourists. Due to their size and popularity, these tea houses can be pretty noisy, making it challenging to find a peaceful resting spot. Furthermore, the availability of food and water is often scarce, making it crucial to bring your supplies and rely on them throughout the journey.
The Everest Base Camp Trek is a renowned journey to the world's highest peak base camp. It immerses you in the charm of the Khumbu region's traditional mountain lodges and teahouses. These teahouses provide essential facilities for trekkers. But they may need to meet the expectations of those seeking luxury.
Typically, teahouses offer accommodation and dining services, with rooms primarily designed for twin sharing, particularly at higher elevations. Additionally, toilet and bathroom facilities are shared among guests. Although some places may offer the option of a hot shower for an additional fee. The reduced oxygen levels at higher altitudes affect the body's digestion process, leading to potential issues like nausea, headaches, and a decreased appetite. Careful meal planning and taking necessary precautions to safeguard your health becomes imperative in such conditions. Adequate hydration is vital to prevent altitude sickness, so an ample water supply is highly recommended.
As you ascend further along the EBC trek, the variety of available food options remains the same. While most teahouses have a set menu, the choices may be limited. You can expect a selection of hot drinks like tea and coffee for beverages. Likewise, bottled water costs tend to rise as you reach more significant elevations. Therefore you can carry a water purification system to make the water drinkable. This way, you can enjoy pure water and maintain a healthy diet throughout your trek.
Everest Base Camp Cost and Limited Access
The journey to Everest Base Camp presents numerous hurdles to overcome. From financial implications to restricted accessibility, this expedition demands endurance and determination while promising generous rewards. Therefore, beginners need to be well-prepared in terms of finances as well.
The voyage to Everest Base Camp entails substantial financial commitments. Permits, equipment, guides, and lodging expenses contribute to the overall cost, which is significant. However, strategies exist to mitigate these expenses and make the trek more economically viable. One such approach is to opt for a tailor-made itinerary and take advantage of group discounts.
The limited access to the Everest Base Camp trek poses a significant challenge. During the peak trekking seasons of September to November and March to May, the region becomes overcrowded with tourists and trekkers. Consequently, obtaining permits for the trek can be tricky. Furthermore, specific trails may be closed due to safety concerns, presenting a major obstacle for those aspiring to undertake the journey.
Therefore, the difficulty of the Everest Base Camp trek can fluctuate depending on factors. These factors include conditions, weather, altitude, and the fitness level of the trekker.
Undoubtedly, the Everest Base Camp trek is a tough endeavor. Yet, taking the necessary precautions and making thorough preparations can ensure your safety and well-being throughout your adventure.
May Have to Rely on Vegetarian meals for weeks
Unfortunately, you may have to rely on vegetarian foods for weeks. Tea houses still offer meat dishes on their menu. However, we strongly recommend embracing vegetarian meals as a general rule. This suggestion has practical reasons, especially when staying in the Everest region. The local community in Khumbu adheres to Buddhism, which strictly prohibits animal slaughter.
Consequently, all meat served at tea houses is sourced from distant locations such as Kathmandu or the neighboring Kharikhola village, transported by porters or yaks. As a result, the meat available there is neither fresh nor hygienic. To prioritize your well-being and avoid the risk of food poisoning, abstain from meat and opt for vegetarian options is best.
Otherwise, tea houses offer highly nutritious vegetarian meals that provide ample energy for your trekking needs. These meals consist of local Nepali food like dal (lentils), bhat (rice), and tarkari (vegetable curry) for both lunch and dinner. Moreover, tea houses serve a delightful variety of vegetarian options such as pasta, noodles, French fries, boiled eggs, pancakes, omelets, toast, momo, garlic soup, and various other dishes.
You can enjoy various beverages, including tea, coffee, hot lemon, hot chocolate, and cold drinks. Therefore, even if you follow a carnivorous diet, there is no need to worry, as tea houses ensure you receive regular meals that provide ample energy throughout the day.
Outdoor Toilet
While it may not sound glamorous, being comfortable with outdoor toilet experiences is essential during the EBC trek. Initially, it may feel awkward, but eventually, you'll get used to it. This becomes particularly important when traveling along the trekking route without nearby villages or teahouses, as it becomes the only option. However, remember to prioritize your privacy by finding secluded spots like bushes, woods, or rocks for your bathroom breaks.
In the present day, the Khumbu region offers standard, modern toilets with flushing mechanisms in most areas. Additionally, some tea houses provide squat toilets. It may seem overwhelming initially if you're not accustomed to squat toilets, but you'll become more comfortable with them over time.
Staying Healthy on the Trek
Maintaining good health throughout the journey is one of the most significant hurdles for beginners on the Everest base camp trek. The trek demands rigorous physical exertion, and the high altitude counts as an extra layer of challenge. Altitude sickness poses a common threat. Its symptoms are headaches, nausea, and fatigue, and it is severe.
To counter this, it is imperative to take appropriate measures, including gradual acclimatization and proper hydration. Carrying a well-equipped first-aid kit and necessary medications is also crucial to address potential health issues during the trek.
Another obstacle beginners encounter is upholding a healthy diet during the expedition. Food availability in the tea houses along the route may not consistently meet hygiene and nutrition standards. As a precaution, it is advisable to pack various snacks and meals that offer the required nutrients to sustain your energy throughout the trek.
Maintaining a balanced diet incorporating carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats is essential for fueling the journey. Additionally, practicing good hygiene practices, such as frequent handwashing, is pivotal in preventing infections and food-related illnesses.
Planning and Preparing for Everest Base Camp Trek
The Everest Base Camp trek is an iconic adventure and popular trekking challenge. It is a non-technical trek suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. However, proper training and preparation are a must for a successful experience. Enjoy your training by involving friends and family or joining a local gym. Getting fit for the trek will enhance your experience. Likewise, it will prevent injuries and improve your overall health too.
Preparing for an expedition to Everest Base Camp can be thrilling yet daunting. The journey ahead is arduous and demanding, both physically and mentally. To conquer the challenges of the trek, proper preparation is crucial.
Thorough readiness is key, from honing your physical fitness to organizing essential gear. Consider the following suggestions to ensure you are fully equipped for the adventure that awaits:
Find a good trekking company First
When planning a trip with a company or a group of guides and porters, selecting a reputable and dependable trekking company is crucial, especially for beginners. The quality of your trekking experience dramatically relies on the chosen company, and Mountain Rock Treks stands out as a reliable option. Conducting thorough research is essential to ensure you find a trustworthy trekking company.
This involves examining the company's profile, international reputation, Google reviews, social media presence, and TripAdvisor ratings. Additionally, assess the company's team and their experience organizing similar trips. Considering these factors, you can determine which trekking company is reliable. A reliable trekking company will have a well-established network and a responsive team to assist you during emergencies. They will also provide valuable tips and advice to help you achieve your dream of reaching Everest Base Camp.
Right Equipment and Gears
The gears you bring along on your trek are crucial. They play a pivotal role in ensuring a successful journey. Therefore, carefully consider and select the appropriate gear before the trekking adventure. Prioritise packing the right equipment and ensure its reliability throughout the entire trek. While acquiring new gear is not required, opting for fresh, long-lasting gear is essential. Before packing, thoroughly inspect all your gear to avoid any unwelcome surprises in the middle of your trek.
To adequately prepare for the challenging Everest Base Camp trek, it is imperative to have the correct equipment. This includes suitable clothing that allows layering to adapt to varying temperatures, durable footwear, a high-quality sleeping bag, a dependable cooking apparatus, and an ample water supply.
Here is a suggested packing list for your Everest Base Camp Trek:
A lightweight and high-quality sleeping bag, Insulation made from down or synthetic materials, Waterproof clothing to withstand adverse weather conditions, A warm hat and gloves to protect against cold temperatures, Trekking poles to aid in stability and support, A compact first-aid kit for emergencies, Sunscreen and lip balm to shield your skin from the sun's rays, A headlamp for illumination during nighttime activities, A camera to capture memorable moments, etc. Check our blog here to learn more about the detailed equipment and gear list.
Plan Ahead and Include proper Acclimatization Days.
Proper acclimatization is necessary when undertaking challenging, high-altitude treks like the Everest Base Camp Trek, especially for beginners. As you ascend each day, reaching higher altitudes, ensuring that your body receives an adequate oxygen supply becomes vital.
Neglecting acclimatization can lead to severe mountain sickness. Therefore, allocating sufficient time for rest and acclimatization is essential before advancing to higher altitudes. Craft a well-planned itinerary incorporating a designated acclimatization day tailored to your needs.
Effective planning is essential to tackle the Everest Base Camp trek's challenges successfully. Likewise, conduct comprehensive research on the route and create a detailed itinerary that accommodates potential changes in weather conditions or unforeseen circumstances, ensuring flexibility throughout the journey.
Best Routes To Take for Everest Base Camp For Beginners
The Everest Base Camp trek is an immensely famous expedition, captivating adventurers worldwide. Its allure stems from a combination of breathtaking vistas, thrilling encounters, and the sheer endeavor of conquering the Earth's loftiest peak, all attainable without ascending its summit. Nevertheless, this journey demands meticulous groundwork, appropriate equipment, and a profound understanding of the path ahead.
Before starting your Everest Base Camp trek, familiarise yourself with the various routes and their difficulty levels. The route you choose will significantly impact the overall challenge you face. The swiftest and most direct path to the Everest Base Camp is via Lukla. This particular route grants awe-inspiring vistas of the Himalayas while encompassing captivating stops at Namche Bazar, Tengboche, and Dingboche before reaching Lobuche. Continuing from Lobuche, you will proceed towards Gorak Shep and ultimately reach the Everest Base Camp.
This particular route meanders through breathtaking mountain passes and is relatively manageable. Nonetheless, the high altitude can be physically taxing, necessitating a deliberate pace and strategic acclimatization stops along the way.
Another possibility for reaching Everest Base Camp is to embark on a trek starting from Jiri or Salleri. This route is steeped in tradition and offers a picturesque journey through verdant valleys and majestic mountains. Renowned for its varied landscapes and profound spiritual significance, it captivates trekkers. En route to the Everest Base Camp, you'll traverse numerous charming villages, such as Shivalaya, Thudam, and Charikot.
How Challenging Will It Be To reach the Everest Base Camp Through This Route?
Unlike many other treks in Nepal, the EBC trek offers flexibility on the itinerary, route, and travel duration. To evaluate the difficulty level and risks of the Mount Everest Base Camp trek, we must examine its various factors.
The highest point reached during this trek is Kala Patthar, at 5545 meters. However, most places visited during the trek are below 5000 meters. Therefore, the average altitude covered during the Everest Base Camp trek falls between 4000 and 5600 meters.
Completing the Everest Base Camp trek typically takes between 8 to 12 days, depending on the chosen itinerary.
Considering the altitude covered and the duration of the trek, the difficulty level of the Everest Base Camp trek is classified as grade three. While it is not a walk in the park, it is not among the most challenging treks of Nepal too.
The trek may be somewhat demanding for beginners, particularly after reaching Namche Bazaar. Being well-prepared, appreciating the breathtaking views, and enjoying your hike to Everest Base Camp are crucial.
