Trek To Everest Base Camp with 8 year old and 12 year old kids

Is It Easy To Walk To Everest Base Camp With Kids?

Regarding trekking with kids, you might ask about the duration of trekking to reach Everest Base Camp. This particular chapter of our life is invaluable and irreplaceable! Throughout the journey, we learned profoundly about life, love, and the Nepali community. Likewise, we also had the opportunity to travel and interact with some of the most amazing individuals. It took us 10 days to complete our Everest Base Camp trek with a return by helicopter journey. Undoubtedly, children are capable of trekking to Everest Base Camp. However, we must highlight that it's not an easy accomplishment. Families must carefully consider before embarking on such a venture as it entails physical and mental endurance for adults, let alone children. We have provided a table/itinerary below, which outlines our trek's walking duration, distance, and altitude, and we believe it presents a fair estimation.

Everest Base Camp trek with children is possible, but it's not a walk in the park. As a family who completed the journey with our kids, we can attest that it's a life-changing but challenging journey to the mountains. We gained valuable insights into the Nepali people, life, and love throughout our trek. We also had the pleasure of meeting incredible local people and places. Parents must consider each child's physical and mental enthusiasm before venturing on the expedition. Keep in mind that the trek is challenging, even for adults. To help families understand what to expect, we've included a detailed itinerary in the table below. Children's physical abilities and mental resilience differ, so it's crucial to assess each child's readiness for such a trek individually. 

More precisely, it took us 10 days to reach the Base Camp with our 8-year-old son and 12-year-old daughter. You can make your journey shorter or longer. It's totally up to you. But since we have children to trek with us, we choose to trek for the 10 days to the Everest base and return to Kathmandu in a helicopter without having to trek back. Typically, it takes around eight days to journey from Lukla to EBC. This duration is calculated as it allows ample time for acclimatization to the higher altitudes and covers the required daily miles.

Altitude Sickness problems In an EBC trek With Kids

Altitude sickness becomes a greater risk when you surpass an altitude of 2400 meters. But if you are trekking with kids, it can occur before an altitude of 2400 m too. To be least affected, avoiding ascending more than 500 meters daily is best to minimize this risk. Even a slight increase in altitude can heighten the risk of altitude sickness, which applies to everyone, not just kids. During our trek, there were some places where we exceeded the recommended altitude gain, mainly due to the sparse distribution of teahouse towns. However, we compensated for this by ascending higher later in the day or incorporating an acclimatization day.

Our family took 10 days to reach EBC, of which around 6 were spent trekking, and two were allocated for acclimatization. This duration suited our family perfectly. However, for those prone to altitude sickness or those traveling with children below the age of ten, an additional acclimatization day would not be a bad idea. All were good before Namche, but after Namche to Denboche, all of us, including our children, felt a slight headache. 

Altitude, or acute mountain sickness (AMS), is a common problem among trekkers who venture into high-altitude areas. The Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek is a popular trekking route that attracts thousands of tourists each year. However, altitude sickness can be a significant challenge for trekkers, especially those traveling with children. Altitude sickness occurs when your body cannot adjust to low oxygen levels at high altitudes. Symptoms include headaches, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, and shortness of breath. These symptoms can be more severe in children, as their bodies may have difficulty adjusting to the lower oxygen levels in the air. Moreover, children often do not recognize the symptoms of altitude sickness, which can result in delayed treatment and potentially severe complications.

One of the best ways to prevent altitude sickness in children is to acclimate them to higher altitudes gradually. In an EBC trek with kids, taking frequent rest breaks and sleeping at lower elevations is recommended to give their bodies sufficient time to acclimate. It is also essential to stay hydrated and eat a healthy and balanced diet to help the body adjust to high altitudes.

Another problem with altitude sickness in an EBC trek with kids is that it can restrict the trekking itinerary. Trekkers often have to take rest days or make slower progress to allow for the acclimatization process of kids. While it may be frustrating, ensuring their safety and well-being is necessary. Moreover, altitude sickness can also affect children's mental health, as they may feel anxious, scared, or uncomfortable with the symptoms they are experiencing. Adults can provide comfort and care by regularly checking in on them, offering encouragement, and being patient with their needs. So do not forget to educate children about altitude sickness, its symptoms, and what to do if they feel unwell to help them identify and seek help.

The Extra Places We Visited With Our Children With Luxury Everest Base Camp Trek

We confused the Basic EBC trek route with the luxury one. In reality, there are various routes to choose from in the Luxury Ebc trek than on the Basic route. Since we chose the Luxury Everest base camp trek, we explored more unique places than that basic trek contains.  Normally on a basic trek, trekkers must reach Tengboche after reaching Namche on Day 4. But with the luxury package, the route is more exciting and different. After reaching Namche on our 4th day of trekking on the 5th day, we decided to reach Dengboche through Deboche. Our guide informed us that Deboche has more luxury accommodations facilities than Tengboche. Our eight-year-old son and 12-year-old daughter were struggling a lot during the trek. So luxury accommodations with various facilities were a must in this journey. We visited Dingboche, not through Lobuche but through Deboche. We got the best accommodations and amenities available in these places. Similar to Tengboche, Deboche is a peaceful haven founded by Lama Gulu to support nuns. However, it offers a different experience with lusher forests and a more serene atmosphere. Despite the comparatively lesser scenic beauty, the place compensates with its tranquil ambiance and a milder breeze due to its lower altitude of 120m from Tengboche. From Diboche, we saw views of Mt Thamserku (6608m), Mt Chomolungma, Golden Eagles, Black Faced Laughingthrush, and many more.

Another place we visited on this trek that the basic package will not cover is Thukla at 4,620m. We chose to trek through Thula because we had got our kids traveling with us. They needed enough acclimatization to cope with the sudden changes in altitude. This place also consists of basic accommodations in a luxury package because of its high altitude location. There are no options in this place to get basic accommodation facilities here because, together, there is only one lodge in this area. 

Accompanied by our young ones, guides, and porters, we continued exploring the pyramid. The Himalayas are known for their majestic peaks and snow-capped landscapes. But we stumbled upon an unexpected sight during our trek to the Everest Base Camp. Nestled amidst the rugged terrain, the Everest Pyramid stood out with its solar panels and low stone structure.

Unlike the traditional trail to the Everest Base Camp, the route to the pyramid is less traveled. A slight detour from the village of Lobuche takes you to the frontal moraine of Lobuche glacier. From there, a brief walk through a narrow valley leads you to the incredible sight of the pyramid. For those up for some extra adventure, asking your guide to take you on this detour is well worth it. The Everest Pyramid is a unique and captivating destination that should not be missed.

From our personal experience, climbing the Pyramid with kids under the age of 12 can be very difficult. Many such people do not dare to climb to Pyramid at 5,050 m. If you want to trek to Pyramid in an Everest base camp trek package, then you must choose a luxury one because a basic trek does not include a trek to Pyramid, no matter if you are in a group or a solo traveler. 

Helicopter Return from Everest Base Camp Trek

There are 2 ways to get back from the Everest base Camp: trekking or helicopter service. Our kids were tired of trekking up to the Everest Base Camp. We knew our kids did not have enough physical and mental energy to travel back on foot after reaching the camp. So we booked this luxury trek package which consists of a helicopter return service from the Base Camp of Everest. 

The Helicopter Return from Everest Base Camp is an incredible experience. No one should miss out on this experience, especially if you are with your family. The journey involves flying over the world's highest peak. Likewise, you can see the beauty of the Himalayas from an entirely new perspective. The helicopter tour takes you to places where only a few people can go. The flight starts from the base camp of Mount Everest. And, of course, the excitement begins immediately. The helicopter tour offers a stunning terrain view, making passengers feel part of something epic.

Once you are on the helicopter, the thrill of the experience starts to build. Being up in the air with the mountains as your backdrop is nothing short of surreal. The helicopter trip takes you through unique places. It provides incredible views that can't be seen from the ground. You can see the grandeur of Everest, the surrounding peaks, and the vast expanses of glaciers, valleys, and forests. The pilot also provides all the information you need throughout the trip. You can get a detailed account of the terrain and its history. Helicopter Return from Everest Base Camp is an experience you cannot miss. The tour gives you the thrill of riding on a helicopter while exploring the beauty of the mountains from above. The entire journey is fascinating, educational, and awe-inspiring. This made our journey more memorable. When traveling to Nepal, do not hesitate to book a trip to experience the Helicopter Return from Everest Base Camp. You can also add helicopter service in a basic package with a little extra cost. 

Trek from EBC:- Those who are not willing to take a helicopter ride can always trek back to Lukla. However, an option to choose a return by helicopter ride is the best one if you are traveling with your young kids like us. You can allocate around 4 - 5 extra days in your itinerary for a return from Everest Base Camp to Gorakshep and Lukla. The path to the Lukla is mostly downhill, with several climbs along the way. You will feel amazing if you start hiking back even though you are not taking a helicopter ride back to Lukla. In return, you will walk around 10 miles daily and reach Lukla. Returning by foot may add up to 1-3 days extra. 

Is it hard to reach Everest base camp?

This hike was way more difficult than we thought it would be in reality. My wife and I are pretty fit because we've done much hiking before Everest Base Camp, and of course, we are in our late 30s with great fitness. But for kids, it was tough. We walked for about five to six hours daily, with a lunch break in the middle. It was tough even on the days we were just getting used to the altitude. The more elevated we went, the harder it was to breathe because there was less oxygen. Even small hills made us out of breath, and big hills made us super tired. By the end of the day, we were all exhausted. 

The main difficulty we faced was altitude sickness. You might get altitude sickness when you go on a big hike to Everest Base Camp. This is when you feel sick because of the high altitude or height above sea level. Kids ten or older are just as likely to get altitude sickness as adults. But, some trekking companies will let eight or older kids come on the hike. To avoid getting altitude sickness, taking your time and not rushing is important. It's best to take at least eight days to walk from Lukla to Gorak Shep. If you try to do it faster, you might get sick.

If you're considering trekking to Everest Base Camp with your kiddo, here's what we think. We are not an expert, but the youngest age I would recommend is seven. If your seven-year-old is strong and has experience hiking long distances, they should be able to make it to the base camp.

But get this - I read that a five-year-old completed the trek! Crazy, right?

Anyway, your child needs to be able to tell you how they're feeling. Also, they should be able to hike day after day after day. And it's not just the hiking that's tough - the sleeping quarters are cold, the bathrooms could be better, and the food can get pretty boring. My family found those things harder than the actual hiking!

We did not see any other kids on the trail besides Aadhya and Darsh, the youngest ones from Mountain Rock Trejs. But they got much attention and support from the other adults, guides, and porters. It helped keep them going and made them feel special for doing something extraordinary.

What Mount Everest Base Camp Looks Like With Kids?

Mount Everest Base Camp is a bucket list destination for many adventurous. It was considered only for experienced mountaineers in the past. But now it has opened up to anyone who wants to share its rugged beauty. It is a challenging trek. But it can be even more daunting with children. Yet, with proper preparation taking children to Mount Everest Base Camp can be significant. You can teach them about nature, perseverance, and overcoming challenges.

The first thing you will notice about children is the excitement and happiness on their faces on this trek. Our children were excited to be in one of the multiple attractive locations on Earth. Even though it might be a challenging trek, our children were devoted to appreciating every minute. You will see children trekking and taking in stunning views of the mountains. The experience will make them feel alive and connected with nature. The second thing you will notice is the sense of community at the base camp. There are dozens of trekkers, climbers, sherpas, and locals, creating a lively atmosphere. The children will be amazed by the colorful tents and the local shops. Likewise, they will encounter different cultures on their way up the mountain. They can make new friends and learn about diverse cultures. This will enrich their personal growth.

Another thing to keep in mind is the climate requirements. It can be unexpected in the mountains. So pack the right gear to protect the children from weather changes. Preparing for all weather conditions, from intense sun to heavy rain and even snowfalls, is required. Children ought to be comfortable throughout the journey. To confirm they're dry, warm, and have enough to eat and drink.

As you walk through the Base Camp with children, you will realize how ambitious they are. They are determined to reach higher and go further. They want to learn more about how mountaineers climb up the summit, the techniques they use, and what challenges they encounter. The children may even make their challenges. These challenges contain arranging a tent, the knots needed to secure the ropes, and other camping and mountain life skills.

Last but not least, you'll see the beauty of nature with children at the Base Camp. They will witness the incredible mountain peaks and the glaciers around them. The beauty of nature can have an in-depth mark on a child's mental well-being. It helps them appreciate the beauty of life and respect nature. Also, it will inspire them to become guardians of the Earth.

Planning the Trek to Everest Base Camp with our Kids

If you're scheduling a trek in Nepal, there are additional manners to go around it. We decided to book a tour with Mountain Rock Treks, a company in Kathmandu. They assisted us with everything we required. They provided us with a guide and porter and took care of most of the expenses. They even booked our flights and got our trekking permits for us. We didn't have to stress about locating a lodging to sleep in every night. Because they made sure we had rooms in the teahouses. Plus, all our meals were included! It was such a comfort not to have to stress about all those particulars. We just concentrated on reaching from one place to another.

The base camp is bustling with activity, with hikers, climbers, and also tour guides making their way to the top. The presence of porters and guides in the trek added a new dimension to the experience.

Our porters, Mingma Sherpa, Finju Sherpa, and Dawa Sherpa, helped us throughout our journey to the base camp. Also, we appreciate the help and guidance of our guide, Anggdawa Sherpa. In reality, our journey to the bae came only because of our porters and guides. 

Porters and guides are expected in the base camp. They carry heavy gear and requirements to help the journey. The porters carry a variety of items. These items include tents, stoves, food packs, oxygen cylinders, medications great, and sleeping bags. These items are necessary for the climbers' survival. Also, the porters ensure these items' safe and timely delivery to the base camp. The guides are the professionals who lead and help the climbers in their travels. They are experienced and qualified in mountaineering. They play a vital role in securing the safety of the trekkers. They give the climbers direction, support, and motivation. This helped us surmount the climb's challenges. They also helped us acclimate to the base camp's high altitude and educated us on properly using the equipment.

The Porter's and Guides company developed a unique environment of friendship and teamwork. The climbers, porters, and guides work together in unison. They form a close-knit group united in their mission. We shared stories, laughter, and experiences and forged lifelong bonds beyond the expedition. The porters and guides also bring a local touch to the expedition. They shared their knowledge of the area, culture, and traditions with the climbers.

Foods and Accommodations

During our trek, we were pleased to find the most suitable accommodations. The standard of lodgings was incredible. This package of luxury accommodations surpassed all our expectations in every possible way. The trek was arranged to provide access to comfortable and spacious rooms. The rooms were designed to provide the utmost comfort. They were all fitted with warm and comfortable mattresses and pillows. It helped us get a good night's sleep after a harsh day of trekking. Especially for our kids, they were very comfortable in every accommodation provided. 

Not only were the accommodations tidied and cozy, but they were also equipped with modern installations. These amenities include clean toilets, hot water, and electricity to charge our devices. It was remarkable how our guide and porters delivered such high-quality amenities. Also, in the mountains and high elevated places. The accommodation was also equipped with a dining area. Here, we were served delicious and freshly cooked meals that energized us for the next day's trek. What engraved me the most was the hospitality the residents delivered to us. From the trek organizers to the cooks and porters, everyone was so friendly and always willing to help. They saw that we were comfortable and met our needs throughout the trek. During our trek, we stayed in hotels, lodges, and tea houses, which are more luxurious than basic hotels. They don't have a lot of fancy things and have what you need to be comfortable.

The rooms have a bed made of wood and a foam mattress. You sleep in your sleeping bag on top of the mattress and use the pillow and blanket they give you. We stayed in luxury hotels and lodges after arriving in Lukla. Every place we trekked in, like Phading Namche Bazar, had luxury amenities. Only after Namche Bazaar in places like Thukla did we have to adjust for basic amenities and accommodations. This is so because Thuka is a highly elevated place, and only one lodging option is available in the whole area. We would say though the facilities were basic, our guide and porter tried to provide us with the best because even those simple basic amenities seemed impossible in this area. We only compromised for Thukla. Besides, all our accommodations and food options were of luxury level and all the modern facilities were equipped. 

Tea houses provide three altitude-friendly meals daily. This was essential for energy at high elevations during trekking. These meals typically contain nourishing foods like rice, lentil soup, noodles, and potatoes. Likewise, it also includes hot tea and other liquid options. We combated the cold weather by eating the same foods as the locals and maintaining their health, strength, and vitality. Our guides advised us that a healthy and hygienic diet is essential for success at Everest Base Camp. In particular, throughout the trek, he provides us with a balanced and nutritious breakfast. This breakfast includes porridge/oats, potatoes, bread, tea, and coffee, to give us the energy we need until we reach the next tea house for lunch, reducing the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness. During the trek, porters carry all the food that is not refrigerated while it is being carried. We generally avoided Meat above Namche, and cheese is also cut out at this point, especially since the only cheese served is yak cheese, which we enjoyed but our children did not. While pizza, made with flatbread, ketchup, and yak cheese, is an option on the menu, many more delicious dinner options are available. Here you can choose if you want to include yak cheese in your menu or not.  One staple food available everywhere is dal bhat, a traditional Nepali meal consisting of lentil soup and steamed rice. However, there are also noodle soups, fried rice or noodles, and various fried potato preparations. Our kids mainly stuck to safe options like toast, soup, hot chocolate, fried rice, and potatoes.

What did We pack Before The Trek?

While tackling a 10 days trip with a family of four, packing for every possible scenario can be challenging. Our family found this out the hard way when we realized we didn't have warm clothes for a trip to Everest Base Camp. To make matters worse, our children were going through growth spurts and constantly outgrowing their shoes and clothes. As a result, we had to source all our gear and clothes once we arrived in Nepal.

The Everest Base Camp Packing List is divided into several categories: Clothes, Toiletries, Medical kits, Electronics, Essential Items, and Miscellaneous Items. In the Clothes category, we included essential items like boots, walking trousers, thermal tops and leggings, fleece or warm tops, t-shirts, socks, hats, buffs, gloves, underwear, waterproof jackets, down jackets, sunglasses, and slippers. We also packed 50-liter rucksacks and a 15-liter daypack for our 8-year-old.

The Toiletries category includes travel towels, shampoo, conditioner, soap, face moisturizer with SPF, sun cream, lip balm, hairbrushes, face cloths, deodorants, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and a washing laundry bar. We highly recommend buying laundry bars locally since laundry costs are high. The Medical Kit category is crucial when traveling to a remote location like Everest Base Camp. We packed Calpol, Ibuprofen, antihistamines, multivitamins, thermometers, antibiotics, probiotics, rehydration salts, diarrhea relief, hand sanitizers, tiger balm, plasters, and antiseptic cream. The Electronics category includes mobile phones, a mirrorless camera, a DJI Osmo Action, hard drives, battery banks, and travel cable sockets.

In conclusion, creating your packing list for Everest Base Camp takes a little time, but covering all the essentials is essential. 

It is important to have the appropriate gear for a warm and comfortable feeling throughout the trek. These gear should have a down jacket, a high-quality sleeping bag, hats, gloves, and a generous base layer. Additionally, it's helpful to pack a couple of short-sleeved shirts, two long-sleeved shirts, two pairs of long pants, a raincoat, and rain/wind pants. These items are readily available for purchase or rent at affordable prices from the numerous trekking stores in Kathmandu. In addition to clothing, other essential items to consider include a headlamp, snacks, a water purifier (such as SteriPen or chlorine tablets), a deck of cards, and extra cash for buying toilet paper, bottled water, and extra food along the trek. 

Luxury Everest Base Camp Trek With Family Friendly Itinerary 

Day- 01 Kathmandu To Lukla Flight and Hike From Lukla To Phakding

• Highest elevation reached:- Lukla at 2,860 meters (9,383 feet)
• Elevation at Phakding: 2,610 meters (8,563 feet)
• Distance: 7.8 km (5 miles)

Did you guys know that Lukla Airport is one of the most dangerous airports in the world? It's found in a small town on the side of a mountain and has only a single runway. The runway is super short and is angled upwards towards the hill to help planes slow down when they land. But when planes take off, the incline declines, allowing them to gain more speed to take off faster. It's pretty scary because if a plane doesn't take off successfully, it could crash into the valley below. We all were very nervous before our flight to Lukla. This is because sometimes planes crash there, and everyone on board dies. Our flight landed safely, and we could begin our travel to Everest Base Camp from here.

Lukla is the starting point for our trekking adventure. We had a guide named Anggdawa Sherpa, which was terrific, and a porter who carried our stuff for us. We had two big bags that our porter carried for us. Inside those bags, we had sleeping bags, warm coats, snacks, and extra clothes. We got most of our supplies in Kathmandu before we started our trek. We either bought or rented them. After our trek, we donated our winter clothes because we only needed them for this trip.

Our first hiking began with a 5-mile walk on the first day of our 10-day trek to Phakding on the day we landed on Lukla. It was the easiest day, with a descent of 820 feet. We were all feeling fresh, clean, and energized, excited for what would come. Here in Phakding, we stayed in a luxury hotel like a two- or three-star hotel. The teahouse had a dining room. We ate our meals, heated up by the fire, and talked with other visitors. Other people in the group shared a communal bathroom with other trekkers. But in Phakding, we were lucky enough to have our bathroom. We quickly realized that this was a luxury. 

Day 2- Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar

• High Elevation Reached:- Namche Bazar at 3,440 meters (11,286 feet)
• Distance:  10.4 km (6.5 miles)
• Elevation at Phakding: 2,610 meters (8,563 feet)

The second day of our trek was more difficult than the first one when we trekked to Phakding. We had to walk a long way and climb up a big hill. We followed the Milk River, which begins at Everest Base Camp. We saw numerous cool specialties like small villages, cows, and other people carrying items. Everyone we met was friendly and said "Namaste!" to us. But our kids got much attention because of their determination and courage to complete the trek. Grown-ups would speak to her. Other kids would try to get her attention. Local people were astonished to see us trekking to Everest Base Camp, especially with kids. Before we climbed up to Namche, we stopped for lunch in a small town. We ate a traditional Nepali meal called dal bhat. It's made of rice, lentil soup, and vegetable curry. The Nepali people say that if you eat dal bhat, you'll have enough energy to walk for 24 hours. I don't know if that's true, but it's a healthy meal we could find everywhere. The people who carried our stuff and guided us ate dal bhat thrice daily. 

After lunch, we had to climb a big hill to Namche. It was tough! We had to stop to breathe because we were climbing so high. When we got to Namche, we were really tired. But we had to climb even higher before we could rest. If you climb too high too quickly, you can get unwell. Altitude sickness is a big problem when hiking to Everest Base Camp because you're going so high up. We climbed a little higher before dinner, and we all felt light-headed and had headaches. But we didn't get ill and suffered much, so we could keep going.

Day- 03 Acclimatization Day At Namche Bazar

• High Elevation Reached:- Namche Bazar at 3,440 meters (11,286 feet)
• Distance:  10.4 km (6.5 miles)

On day  2, we climbed 800 meters higher than we used to, making our bodies feel a little weird. Even our children were very tired because of yesterday's trek. So, we took a day to get used to the new altitude before going even higher. Our guide woke us early to see Mt Everest before the clouds came in. It was so cool to see Everest! It was hard to see because another Lhotse mountain was in the way, but we'll see it more in the next day.

The Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazar was one of our favorite days in this EBC trek. This is because we got to visit the all-time famous Namche bazaar. Moreover, we also visited the Namche Museum, which is also called the Sherpa Museum. The Sherpa Culture Museum is a cool place to visit in Namche. This pace is a must-visit because it keeps all the old Sherpa stuff safe. It also shows what life was like for the Sherpa people before things changed. The museum resembles the old Sherpa buildings and has important things about Sherpa culture. We also did some shopping worth around $200 in total. Namche Bazar is an excellent place where people buy and sell stuff. It's especially famous for the Sanibar Haat Bazar, a farmer's market on weekends.

Day - 04 Trek From Namche Bazar To Deboche 

• Highest Elevation Reached:-  3820 meters
• Elevation Gain:  around 430 meters (1,378 feet)
• Distance:  9 km (5.6 miles)
• Namche Bazaar elevation:- 3,440 meters (11,286 feet)

Throughout our journey, most of the time, we woke up early every morning at 6 am. We only showered a few times because it was very cold up in the mountains. Also, we wanted to avoid getting sick by showering daily in the cold. Today will be challenging, with a 6-7-mile hike and a 430- 150 meter climb ahead of us. As we set off, breathtaking views of the Himalayas greeted us. Deboche is perched atop a hill in the distance. The hike was made more enjoyable by the presence of several Buddhist stupas. We visited many monasteries along the way. 

During our trek, we saw a procession of porters and yaks carrying goods to Everest Base Camp. These hard-working men were carrying everything. We saw porters carrying food and clothing, furniture, and construction materials on their backs. Despite the steep and rocky terrain, they amazed us with their strength and endurance. They moved at a pace almost equal to ours.

However, one thing that disturbed us was the sight of baskets filled with meat. The meat was cut in Namche or Lukla and carried up the trails unrefrigerated to be delivered to higher elevated places. The normal traditional route is to reach Tengboche from Namche Bazar. We chose to trek to Debcohe because t has a better accommodation option than Tengboche. 

Day- 05 Trek From Deboche To Dingboche

• Highest Elevation Reached:- 4,410 meters (14,469 feet)
• Elevation Gain:  540 meters (1,505 feet)
• Distance:  10.7 km (6.6 miles)
• Deboche Elevation:-  3820 meters

After getting a good sound sleep in the best luxury accommodation, we had a hearty breakfast. We ate toast, porridge, potatoes, and black tea. After breakfast, we continued on our journey to Dingboche, accompanied by our Sherpa. We began our journey with a burst of energy.

However, as we climbed higher, our confidence weakened, and we became exhausted. We were panting and sluggish when we reached high altitude. The chilly weather necessitated the layering of warm clothes, including hats and gloves. After lunch, we had to scale another 1,500 feet to reach Dingboche, a daunting task at this altitude. The exertion was akin to slogging through sand, even on gentle inclines. It felt as though we were competing in a marathon.

Despite our struggles, our kids soldiered on, earning admiration and encouragement from fellow trekkers. Their potency was terrific, and we couldn't be prouder of our children. Upon reaching Dingboche, we were all exhausted, and some experienced mild headaches. Staying hydrated helped alleviate the symptoms, and a quick hike aided our bodies' adjustment to the high altitude. 

Day 06:- Rest day At Dingboche

Altitude Sickness typically occurs at 2400 m. At the breathtaking height of 4410 meters (14,500 feet) on our Everest Base Camp trek, we are at the prime stage for altitude sickness to take hold. To avoid falling prey to its symptoms, we must ascend gradually and acclimatize to the altitude each day. However, after days of hiking, we feel drained and require respite. Today we rested all day long, enjoying the views of the mountains around us. We wanted to take a short hike around Dingboche. But our kids were very tired of all the walks till now. So, we decided to stay here and enjoy the surroundings rather than go on a hike. 

The place where we stayed structures were constructed with meager resources- plywood walls, doors, windows that were scarcely sealed shut, and doors that had to be forcefully shut. The flimsy walls allowed us to hear our neighbors' conversations with ease.

Day :- 07 Trek From Dingboche To Thukla

• Dingboche Elevation:  4,410 meters (14,469 feet)
• Elevation at Thukla Elevation:- 4620 m | 15,157 ft
• Distance: 4-6 miles

Tradition Everest base camp trek will take you from Dingbhche to Tengboche, but we choose to trek to Thukla here. Our kids, Darsh and Asdhya, could not walk for long hours. Due to this, we had to hike to Thuka instead of Lobuche. 

Due to these reasons, we trekked about 3-6 miles from Dingboche and descended a little lower than Dingboche to Thukla. As we walked from Dingboche, the Milk River lay below us, and the snowy, rocky Himalayas surrounded us, painting spectacular scenery. Despite the breathtaking view, we knew we had to rest in Them to get enough rest and to protect our kids from being too tired to complete the trek. Climbing at a snail's pace, the four of us were constantly out of breath, and the low-grade headache and fatigue were now constant companions. After hours of trekking, we arrived at Thukla, a tiny town with a few buildings we could count on our two hands. We knew we would only be staying here for one night. 

We had to adjust for basic accommodations because only one tea house was available in the whole area. We got hot bags, water, and blankets to warm ourselves and our kids. 

Day:- 08 Trek To Pyramid Through Lobuche From Thukla

• Highest Elevation Reached:- 5,050 m (16,568 ft.)
• Lobuche Elevation:- 4,940 meters (16,210 ft)
• Thukla Elevation:- 4620 m | 15,157 ft

Today we started our trek after eating local breakfast from the village of Thukla, which is at an elevation of 3820 meters or 12,533 feet. From there, the trek continues towards Lobuche, 4,940 meters or 16,210 feet. This part of the trek is expected to take several hours of walking, as the distance between Thukla and Lobuche is considerable.

After reaching Lobuche, the trek continues to the Pyramid at an elevation of 5,050 meters or 16,568 feet. This part of the trek was more demanding than the last leg, which involved a steep and rocky climb. The highest elevation of the trek is reached at the Pyramid, furnishing trekkers with a spectacular vista of the surroundings and famous snow-capped peaks. As I approached Lobuche, my eyes were drawn to the striking Everest Pyramid perched on a low-stone building. Its surface was adorned with sleek Perspex solar panels that shone brilliantly under the sun's rays. After navigating the treacherous glacier and a narrow lunar valley, I found myself gazing upon the remnants of a once-glorious research center.

Driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge, I couldn't resist exploring the forbidden domain reserved exclusively for researchers. As I ventured inside the Pyramid, I was greeted by a maze of modern, western-style rooms, impeccably maintained and teeming with sophisticated scientific equipment and cutting-edge lab machinery. Every corner was plastered with Italian electronics labels and stickers, a testament to the center's devotion to innovation and progress. 

At night, the teahouse rooms were as cold as winter's icy grip. The temperatures plunged into the high 30s. Despite the bitter chill, we could maintain some semblance of heat. However, the following day proved to be a demanding job. Because getting up and getting dressed felt like a Herculean feat.

Day:- 10 Trek from Pyramid  to Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar and Back to Gorakh Shep

• Gorak Shep Elevation: 5,164 meters (16,942 meters)
• Kala Patthar Elevation: 5,545 meters (18,514 feet)
• Everest Base Camp Elevation: 5,380 meters (17,600 feet)
• Distance: 11.3 km (7 miles)
• Highest Elevation Reached:- 5,545 meters (18,514 feet)

Today, we achieved the incredible feat of reaching Everest Base Camp. Our ascent was slow and steady, traversing rocky terrain and fluctuating elevations. Although we only covered three miles, the thin air at high altitudes made progress difficult. Upon arriving at Gorak Shep, we refueled with lunch before resuming our trek to the base camp and Kala Patthar. The cold weather required us to The ascent to base camp was challenging, characterized by steep inclines and rugged slopes. At 17,000 feet, the air was thin, containing only 51% oxygen, making us feel lethargic and sluggish. 

We finally arrived at Everest Base Camp! after 1-2 hours of trekking. It was a humbling sight, consisting of a small pile of boulders, a sign, and prayer flags. We took pictures, hung our prayer flags, and basked in our accomplishments before making the arduous trek to Kala Patthar. We encountered adults who had been unable to endure the trek, but Darsh and Asdhya displayed unwavering determination and enthusiasm. Winter coats, hats, and gloves, and we were already exhausted.

Gorak Shep and Base Camp offer no glance of Mt Everest, as the magnificent Lhotse takes the forefront. For an exceptional picture of the world's highest peak, one must ascend toward Kala Patthar, a small mountain around Gorak Shep. Due to this, we also climbed towards Kala Patthar for a Mount Everest view. Later we descended back to Gorakh Shep for our accommodations. 

Day:-10 Birthday Celebration and Helicopter Flight Back From Everest Base Camp

The trek to Everest Base Camp amazed us with nature's magnificence and gave us unforgettable memories. Amidst this wonderland, the day that stole our hearts was our little girl Aadhya's thirteenth birthday. Our guide brought cake and all the sweets before reaching the Base Camp. We joyfully celebrated our daughter's birthday by cutting a cake, distributing sweets, and taking many photographs. 

With our trusty guide and porters, we rejoiced in the beauty of the Base Camp, making the day truly remarkable. The icing on the cake was the exhilarating helicopter ride home. It allowed us to witness the grandeur of the Himalayas from a bird's-eye view. This trip was more than just an adventure; it was a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, mainly because of our kids.

Personal Reviews of the Family Members Regarding Everest Base Camp Trek:

• Mr. Gaurav Mishra:- “Travelling the path to Everest Base Camp with my family via a luxurious package featuring a helicopter return was a lifetime journey. The expedition was a seamless and cozy experience. All because of personalized accommodations and delectable cuisine options catering to our family's needs. Despite the altitude, the trek was not as brutal as expected before. I only encountered a minor headache post-Dingboche. The guides and porters were friendly, knowledgeable, and highly supportive throughout the trip. The trek left an indelible mark on my soul. It was undoubtedly one of the most cherished moments with my children.” 

• Ms. Preeti Mundhra:-  “This expedition was a memorable and treasured experience. It will remain in our memories forever. Despite encountering obstacles during the trek, such as headaches and dizziness, I take immense pride in completing the journey to the base camp with my kids. Dengboche was difficult for me, but my children and spouse, Gaurav, appeared to be coping well throughout the voyage. The lodgings and cuisine were sublime, and our guide and porters were parred excellence. They ensured we had all our requisites fulfilled and enlightened us about the region's rich history and culture. Our riveting conversations with them further heightened the overall expedition's impact.”

• Miss Aadhya Mishra:- “I participated in an Everest Base Camp luxury trek and helicopter return as a birthday celebration. I couldn't have asked for a finer way to mark my special day than this journey. To think that I was celebrating my birthday above the base camp of the world's tallest mountains was beyond my wildest dreams. The hot chocolate was my favorite of all the mouth-watering cuisines I savored throughout the trek. And my brother seemed to share the same sentiment. Although my mother experienced headaches, I, too, faced some mild ones. On the last day of our trip, I cut a cake and celebrated my 13th birthday with my parents and our fellow porter and guides. We visited several monasteries and met many new people. However, I felt slightly uncomfortable as many kids stared at me. Perhaps it was because they had never seen a child trekking so far to reach the Everest base camp. However, this was a life-changing adventure that I would eternally adore.”

• Mr. Darsh Misra:- “My Everest Base Camp and return by helicopter journey was the best. I never thought I could achieve such a voyage at my age, and it's an accomplishment that none of my friends have achieved for sure. I usually do not like to boast, but I will definitely boast about this trip with my friends. Throughout the trek, I met local kids my age who stared in awe at my sister and me. The trip's highlight was celebrating my sister's birthday, and the helicopter ride back was the best part. The convenience of not having to walk back from the base camp was a luxury that made the trip even more memorable.”

• Porter Mingma Sherpa:- “ I had the privilege of trekking with a lovely family of four to Everest Base Camp. From the beginning, I could tell this family was exceptional. Not only were they incredibly friendly and kind, but I was shocked to see the determination and spirit of the little kids in their group. Throughout the trek, we had many conversations, and it was evident that this family deeply loved and respected the mountains. They were always curious and asked me many questions about the area, the culture, and the history of the Everest region. I was happy to share my wisdom and enjoyed their willingness to learn. What stood out to me the most was how the kids in the family were so enthusiastic about reaching Everest Base Camp. They kept up with the rest of the group, even though they were the youngest and smallest ones. Their energy and positive attitudes were contagious and helped motivate everyone during the trek.”

• Guide Anggdawa Sherpa:- “I must say, it was a heartwarming experience.

  Despite initial concerns about the kids' abilities to handle the trek, they were resilient and adaptable. The 8-year-old had never hiked this far before but took to it like a natural. The 12-year-old, who had some prior hiking experience, was equally impressive. They were both exhilarated to explore the region and know about the local Nepali and Sherpa cultures. Our team took a slow and steady approach, allowing the family to acclimate to the altitude and take regular breaks to avoid exhaustion. We also included many fun and educational activities, like visiting monasteries and interacting with local communities.

  The tea houses we stayed in were cozy and welcoming, and the kids were always eager to play with other children they met along the trail. Reaching the base camp of Everest was undoubtedly the highlight of the trek. The kids were in awe of the towering peak and enjoyed the breathtaking views.”

• Trek Organizer Dipak Pande:- “On March 30th, I had the opportunity to organize a trek to Everest Base Camp for a family with two young children, aged 8 and 12. Initially, I doubted whether such young adventurers could take on such a challenging journey, but their unwavering determination and resilience quickly proved me wrong. At Mountain Rock Treks, we left no stone unturned in organizing the trek, carefully selecting the optimal route, arranging suitable accommodations, and ensuring that porters could carry any heavy loads. Our experienced guide was also on hand to support and guide the children, ensuring their safety and comfort throughout the journey. I am delighted to report that both children successfully reached the base camp. We would be thrilled if this family chooses to book with us again, as we remain committed to supporting their passion for adventure and exploration.”