Everest Base Camp Trek Guide 2026: Cost, Itinerary, and Best Time to Go

Standing at the base of the mighty Himalayas is a dream that fills the heart of every adventurer’s soul. Of all the treks on the earth, there are very few that can match the mythical Everest Base Camp Trek (EBC) — to the base of the world’s highest mountain, Mt. Everest (8,848.86 m).

At 5,364 meters above sea level, the Everest Base Camp is the launching point for attempts to reach the summit of Mount Everest. Also, it offers four of the world’s highest peaks, i.e., Everest (8,848 m), Lhotse (8,516 m), Makalu (8,470 m), and Cho Oyu (8,201 m), purely for spectacular views that trekkers can experience. The trek covers approximately 130 kilometres of pristine Himalayan wilderness, featuring a rich culture of authentic Sherpas, situated in an area recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site within Sagarmatha National Park.

In 2026, the EBC trek improves its chances for both the experienced and the first-timers. Improved trekking infrastructure, scenic tea houses, the boundless nostalgia of the Khumbu region, and the timeless charm of this trek will ensure that its legend lives on in the coming years. Here in this Everest Base Camp Trek Guide 2026, you can find all the adventure-specific costs, itinerary, and the best seasons to visit to permits, gear, and preparation tips.

The overview of Trek

Everest Base Camp Trek takes the traveller right into the heart of the Khumbu area in Nepal, beginning with a short flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (2860 meters)-the first step of the adventure. After travelling 12-16 days, the iconic trek will go from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche to Dingboche to Gorak Shep. 

Key Highlights:

• Location: Eastern Himalayas, Nepal
• Duration: 12-16 days
• Destination: Base of the world’s highest peak
• Difficulty: Moderate-challenging
• Accommodation: Local tea houses and lodges along the trail

This journey is more than just a trek to Base Camp-it comprises the Sherpa culture, walking across suspension bridges draped with prayer flags, and walking in the footsteps of legendary climbers.

1. Budget Trek Options (USD 1,200-1,400): 

Budget packages usually offer very basic teahouse accommodations, simple meals, all required permits, and guiding services. These kinds of packages are recommended for more budget trekkers who can withstand basic facilities and use shared facilities.

2. Standard Trek Packages (USD 1,350-1,900): 

Almost all trekkers buy the standard package, which covers better accommodation, assorted meals, experienced guides, and porter services. The cost of group packages is very affordable:

• 1 person (private trek): $1,350-1,399
• for 2-6 people: $1,300-1,350 
• 7-10 people: $1,250 to 1,300.

3. Luxury Trek Experience (USD 1,500-3000): 

Luxury packages would include high-end lodges such as the Yeti Mountain Home, gourmet food, personal guides, and other amenities. The price of luxury packages can go as high as $2,500-3,000. 

Basic Permit Fees

• Three permits are needed for the Everest Base Camp trek: 
• TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System): $20 USD
• Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit: $30 USD
• Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit: $15 USD

Total Permit Cost:  Approximately $65 USD per individual. The permits should be acquired beforehand from government offices or registered trekking agencies in Kathmandu, since they are not available for purchase on the trekking trails. 

Additional Expenses To Consider:

• Equipment and Gear: $200-500 USD, as there may be other essential items, for example, sleeping bags, trekking poles, and proper clothing, if they are not already owned. 
• Tipping to Guides and Porters: $150-300 (traditionally 10-15% of trek cost) 
• Personal Expenses: $100-200: for snacks, drinks, Wi-Fi, charging devices, and souvenirs.
• Travel Insurance: $50-150: general coverage of costs, including helicopter rescue up to 6,000 meters 

Helicopter Return Options 

Those looking for additional convenience with a view to the aerial perspectives can return via helicopter: 

• Shared helicopter flight: About $1000-1500 per person from Gorakshep to Kathmandu. 
• Private helicopter: $2,500-3,000 per flight (3-4 passengers can share the ride). 

Detailed 14 Day Everest Base Camp Itinerary for the year 2026 

The standard itinerary is for 14 days, of which 2 days of acclimatization are essential for altitude adjustment and ensuring safety and success. 

Days 1-3: From Kathmandu to Namche Bazaar 

Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu (1,350m) 

Arrives at Tribhuvan International Airport, transfers to the hotel and finishes the trek preparations. Do the last-minute packing checks and make the final arrangements for permits with your trekking agency. 

Day 2: Fly to Lukla (2,860m); Trek to Phakding (2,610m) – 3-4 hours 

The adventure begins with a phenomenal flight to Lukla, a 30-minute flight with incredible views inside the Himalayas. This gentle trek into Phakding leads to the Dudh Koshi River and winds through nifty pine forests and traditional villages. 

Day 3: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m) – 6-7 hours 

Cross over many suspension bridges, including the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge. The trail climbs very steeply up and through rhododendron forests on a clear day; glimpses of Everest and Lhotse can be seen from here. Namche Bazaar is as modern as a city can get in the mountains, but continues to be the commercial hub of the Sherpas. 

Days 4-7: Acclimatization and Gradual Ascent 

Day 4: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar 

This is a very crucial day of rest: it comprises an acclimatisation day hike to Hotel Everest View (3,880m) for fantastic mountain views. Visit the markets, museums, and bakeries of Namche to give your body time to adjust to the increased altitude. 

Day 5: Trek to Tengboche (3,867m) – 5-6 hours 

Descent passes through forests of blue pine, fir, and juniper and then ascends to Tengboche. The famous Tengboche Monastery, the spiritual heart of the Khumbu region, is a place where outstanding views of Ama Dablam, Everest, and surrounding peaks are visible. 

Day 6: Trek to Dingboche (4,410m)- 5-6 hours 

Alpine terrain, where thin vegetation gives way to vast panoramas of mountains. Some of the best sights of Lhotse, Island Peak, and the entire Ama Dablam massif are seen from Dingboche. 

Day 7: Second Acclimatization Day in Dingboche 

The acclimatisation hike continues to Nagarjuna Hill (5,080m), offering stunning views of the Himalayan giants, along with important altitude acclimatisation. Head back to Dingboche for the night. 

Days 8-10: Final Push to Everest Base Camp 

Day 8: Trek to Lobuche (4,940m)-5-6 hours 

The Trek passes through Thukla and climbs steeply up the memorial area of climbers who died on Everest. The trail substitutes views of magnificent glaciers with high alpine desert. 

Day 9: Trekking to Gorakshep (5,140m) and Everest Base Camp (5,364m)-7-8 hours 

This is the celebratory day that begins with going to Gorakshep and then onto the highly emotional trek to Everest Base Camp. Stand in front of the highest mountain in the world, surrounded by the Khumbu Icefall and towering seracs. 

Day 10: Sunrise at Kala Patthar (5,545m), Descent to Pheriche (4,240m) – 8-9 hours

An early morning ascent to Kala Patthar to behold the magnificent sunrise view over Everest is now to be counted as the highlight of the whole trek. This particular view is unobstructed when gazing up at the summit of Everest, therefore making it even more special, as no one can see it from Base Camp itself.

Days 11-14: The Return Journey

Days 11-14: Gradual Descent Back to Lukla and Onward to Kathmandu 

The return journey also retraces the territory through familiar villages, giving time to consider the achievement and enjoy joyously in an oxygen-rich atmosphere. A final flight from Lukla to Kathmandu brings the curtain down on a life-transforming adventure.

Best Time for the Trek to Everest Base Camp in 2026

The timing will decide a lot about your Everest Base Camp experience, including weather, visibility, trail conditions, and overall safety. 

March to May: The Best Trekking Season

Spring is the most popular and, arguably, the best time for trekking to Everest Base Camp. It offers an ideal combination of stable weather, mild comfort temperature, and exceptional visibility of the mountains. 

Weather Condition

• Daytime temperatures: 10°C to -5°C (varying depending on altitude)​​
• Clear blue sky with good visibility
• Stable weather with less probability of precipitation
• Blossoming rhododendron forests (March-April)

Advantage

• Best visibility of the mountains for photography
• Warmer temperatures make trekking comfortable
• Vibrant atmosphere with trekkers, as it falls within the Everest climbing season 
• Reliable flight schedule to and from Lukla
• Best teahouse facilities and services  

Considerations

• Pre-booking is typically essential since it is peak season. 
• Higher accommodation and service costs 
• Teahouses and trails are highly crowded
• From late spring, some afternoon cloud cover can occur.

Autumn (September-November): Clearer Skies with Stable Weather

With clear mountain views and stable weather patterns, autumn has great trekking conditions. 

Weather characteristics

• Daytime temperatures: 12°C to -10°C
• Extremely clear skies with clear visibility
• Dry trails with little precipitation
• Crisp, cold nights: need warm sleeping gear

Benefits

• Superb mountain photography conditions
• Flight delays are minimized because of stable weather
• Dashain and Tihar festivals add cultural flavor to the trip
• Comfortable daytime temperatures for trekking
• October is said to be the “golden month” for EBC trekking 

Peak Season Considerations

• High demand requiring early bookings
• Busier trails and lodgings
• Premium pricing during peak months

Winter Trekking (December-February): Solitude and Challenge

Winter trekking is grand for seasoned adventurers who prefer solitude and bold scenery in reward. 

Conditions

• Travel-Ice cold during the daytime: -5°C to -15°C.
• Crystal-clear mountain views.
• Barely any crowds and peaceful trails.
• Immensely challenging conditions for exceptional preparation.

Advantages

• Clarity beyond comparison
• Budget prices and availability
• Authentic wilderness experience
• Ideal for photography enthusiasts

Disadvantages

• Extreme cold required specialized gear
• Some high-altitude teahouses may be closed
• Risk in altitude-related issues may increase
• Weather-dependent flight delays are common 

Monsoon Season (June-August): Not Recommended

The monsoon season provides a big challenge and is generally not a recommended time for the Everest Base Camp trek. 

Conditions

• Heavy rainfall, thick cloud cover
• Low visibility and muddy trails 
• Landslide risk, flight cancellations
• High humidity, highly uncomfortable

Final Thoughts

The Everest Base Camp Trek is not just a trek; it is a life-changing experience that tests human endurance, rewards patience, and fills one with wonder. The year 2026 will probably serve as the best year to tread this iconic route when all trails are well-maintained, and the weather pattern becomes more stable. 

Whether you’re chasing adventure or serenity, the Himalayas promise both — and with Best Trek and Adventure as your trusted companion, every step will be worth it.