Witness unique rituals and practices near the frozen peaks.Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek via Phaplu retraces the steps of the early travelers and trekkers to the Khumbu region. Before the accessibility of proper transportation, this route was used for exploring the wonders of the Everest region. Now due to various other alternative routes, this Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek via Phaplu route is less visited by international tourists, making it secluded and less crowded. Trek where Everest heroes walked. Follow Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa’s path to the majestic foothills. A trail that provides an unbeatable combination of natural beauty and cultural splendor at its best.
Trek Overview:
Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek via Phaplu takes you on a journey of a lifetime. Nestled in the eastern region of the country on the laps of the greater Himalayan range. This region consists of several high peaks, the highest altitude glaciers, and glacial lakes in the world. The greater Himalayas has been dissected into various parts by river systems that emerge from the northern side. The EBC Trek via Phaplu offers dramatic changes. The altitude varies greatly. You’ll see different plants along the way. Traditional villages mix with high mountains. Explore ancient monasteries and gompas along the trek. Gain insight into the monks’ lifestyle in this region. Witness unique rituals and practices near the frozen peaks.
Starting of Our Trek
This Everest Base Camp Trek (EBC) via Phaplu Trek starts with a long drive from Kathmandu toward Phaplu. From here you will be traversing across the deep wilderness of the central hills of Nepal. From where you will be crossing settlements along the isolated trail and finally joining the Everest trail. Next following the rapids of the Dudh Koshi River, traversing across lush woodlands, high mountain grounds, arid landscapes, glaciers, and moraines towards the base of the highest mountain on the planet. Next you will scale the highest point of your trek at Kala Patthar nestled at an elevation of 5545 meters. Witness grand views of the landscape like never before, rings of mountain peaks, river networks, glaciers, icefalls, and barren lands.
Alpine Club of Himalaya brings you this specially made package to make sure our clients get the best of the Everest region. A different trek that lets you get an insight into the true lifestyle and culture of the mountain people. Exploring rural settlements, ancient gompas, and forgotten trails of the Everest region. Experience the wonders of the Everest region with us at the Alpine Club of Himalaya.
Important Note
Your safety is of paramount importance to us at the Alpine Club of Himalaya. We have the absolute authority to cancel the trip or change the itinerary, when deemed necessary or when we have reason to believe your safety is at stake. Weather conditions, the health condition of a group member, natural disasters, and such, can contribute to changes in the itinerary when traveling in remote mountainous regions. In these extreme situations, we kindly request that you offer your full co-operation to the trusted leader of the group appointed by the Alpine Club of Himalaya. However, we assure you that we will make every effort to keep to the above itinerary.
Private vehicle / Flights
Kathmandu, Nepal
Kathmandu, Nepal
Full Board during Trek and Breakfasts, Welcome or Farewell meals in Kathmandu
After breakfast head a long drive towards Phaplu in the eastern part of the country. Upon reaching Phaplu you will start your trek. Phaplu is a tiny settlement that nestles a few tea houses and an airstrip. After a brief rest at Phaplu head towards Takshindo, along the trail witness views of an extraordinary landscape. Upon reaching Takshindo head towards your tea house, and later explore the area. Visit the cheese factory of the region and try Himalayan-manufactured dairy and cheese products.
As, your trek starts you will come across the Takshindo Monastery, explore the monastery, and attend to the monks chanting sacred texts and conducting rituals. Next, begin the rapid descend and traverse along the banks of the Dudh Koshi River, as you progress on this trail you will come across lush sections of woodlands, terrace farmlands, and several dotted Sherpa settlements to the village of Khari Khola.
Today you will be heading to the village of Puiyan. The trail takes you across small villages nestled along the lush sub-tropical woodlands. Traversing along the trail you will reach steep sections and narrow canyons. Along the way witness majestic views of snowcapped mountains, lush agricultural belts, and stone houses decorated with colorful Buddhist prayer flags. In the final section, a steep uphill trek will lead you to the settlement of Puiyan.
Today’s trail consists of mostly downwards sections. Start your walk on a ridge, towards Surke. From here you will be traversing across a flatter landscape meandering along the contours of the valley through a deep wilderness of sub-tropical woodlands and miles of undergrowth. Next, the trail further cuts deep into the steep rocky side of the valley, on this section you may come across caravans of mules, be cautious and do not walk on the cliff sides. As, you progress the trail joins the Dudh Koshi river valley, and you will reach the settlement of Phakding.
After an early breakfast starts your trek, traversing across dense Rhododendron and Pine forests. As you come out of the dense woodlands, you will be trekking alongside terraced fields. Progressing on the trail you will be crossing the Dudh Koshi River twice and finally enter the Sagarmatha National Park. At the park's entry gate after your permits are checked head on an uphill track towards Namche Bazaar. This section witnesses grand views of the greater Himalayan range. Mt. Everest, peering over the Lhotse-Nuptse ridge, Nupla, Kongde Ri, Thamserku, and endless other mountain peaks. Upon reaching Namche head towards your accommodation and rest, later head out to explore the region.
Today is your first acclimatization day, proper acclimatization is very vital at a higher altitude. Due to thin air, your body needs to get adapted to higher altitudes. The settlements have various vantage points perfect for acclimatization excursions. Before dawn head out and witness the grand views of the sunrise.
After breakfast head towards “THE EVEREST VIEW HOTEL” passing past a large chorten and a series of mani walls. From the Hotel catch a glorious view of the beautiful landscape filled with evergreen fir trees, shrubs, and endless rhododendron forests and offers a 360-degree view of the awe-inspiring Himalayas. Later head down towards Namche Bazaar.
The first section of the trail takes you across a ridge covered with patches of Rhododendron, along the way witness grand views of lush woodlands and picturous views of AmaDablam and Mount Everest. From here descend and cross the raging Dudh Koshi river. As, you progress on the trail witness series of Mani walls and Chortens, which marks the start of Tengboche village.
The village is nestled on a wide grassy plain covered by scrub pines, ciders, and rhododendrons. Upon reaching Tengboche leave your heavy backpacks and head out to explore the renowned Tengboche monastery. Explore the monastery and witness the monks’ chanting prayers and conduction rituals.
After breakfast head towards the trail. The first section takes you through the woodlands of pines, conifers, and rhododendrons climbing uphill to Imja Khola. From here following a wide-open path you will reach the tiny sherpa settlement of Pangboche at an elevation of 3,901 meters. Along the way visit the ancient monastery where climbers visit to get blessed before heading towards any climbing expeditions around the region. Following the rapids of Imja Khola, you will reach the confluence of Imja Khola and Khumbu Khola. Finally climbing a ridge, beyond the tree line you will reach the sprawling settlement of Dingboche.
Today is your second day for acclimatization. Head towards various attractions around the region, explore monasteries and learn about the culture and lifestyle of the locals. After lunch, you may head towards Chhukkung valley or stroll around Dingboche. At last, don’t miss the views during dawn and dusk.
Today's trek takes you across high alpine grounds and arid landscapes. Along the way witness views of Cholatse, Lobuche, Pumori, and other peaks of the Mahalangur range. Following the trail, you will be traversing along a ridge section, where large heaps of stones are decorated with prayer flags, a remembrance of the mountaineers who perished on a mission to climb Mt. Everest.
From here follow the direction of Khumbu Glacier, the longest in Nepal. Crossing stony path and streams you will reach the settlement of Lobuche, nestled on an elevated and exposed to the upper slopes of the valley.
Following the rocky moraine of the Khumbu glacier head high towards the settlement of Gorakshep. As this section has sheer cliffs with rocky terrain take caution. Upon reaching Gorakshep and after a stop for lunch leave your heavy backpack and head towards the Everest Base Camp at an elevation of 5364 meters.
Crossing glaciers, icefalls, frozen pools of meltwater, exposed icy walls, and large boulders you will finally reach the Everest Base Camp. From the base camp witness grand views of the Mahalangur mountain range. After spending a brief time at the base camp retrace your steps back to Gorakshep.
After breakfast start, hike towards Kala Patthar the highest point of your trek, which is regarded as the best vantage point of the Khumbu region. Crossing through the wide sandy bed of a dried-up lake and on steep zigzags sections. The climb is non-technical, but the altitude can be a problem for some.
From the summit witness grand views of the landscape, panoramic views of Everest, Nuptse, Changtse, norther flank of Lhotse, Khumbu glacier, icefalls, and endless other mountain peaks of the Mahalangur Range. After spending a brief time at the summit retrace your steps back to Gorakshep and down towards Pheriche. Along the way cross settlements and soak in the beautiful views of the landscapes.
After breakfast head on a downhill trail crossing the settlements of Orsho, Shomare, Pangboche, and Dingboche. Along the way explore ancient monasteries and visit the famous Pangboche monastery, the oldest in the Khumbu region. Following the descending route, you will reach Namche Bazaar. Upon reaching Namche and after a brief rest head out to explore the region.
Traversing along the banks of Dush Koshi River retrace your steps back to Lukla. The trail today is mostly downhill and takes you across woodlands of rhododendron, pine forests, ciders, and miles of undergrowth. Upon reaching Lukla head towards your tea house. Later celebrate your last night in the mountains and the success of your trek with your team.
Wake up and bask in the views of the mountains. After breakfast heads towards the airport and catch the flight towards Kathmandu. Upon landing at Kathmandu head towards your accommodation. Today is your leisure day, stroll around the city and buy gifts and souvenirs for your friends and family. Later in the evening join in for a farewell dinner program to mark the success of your trek and the end of your Nepal adventure.
Our staff will drop you off at the airport and bid farewell to your newfound friends as well as Nepal. Note: All of the above-mentioned trekking hours and distances are estimations and should only be used as a general guideline.
Cost Include
All airport/hotel pick up and drop in private car/van
Drive to Phaplu by jeep
1 Night stay in Kathmandu, Twin sharing 3*
14 Nights stay in lodge/guest house during trek
Kathmandu city tour in private car/van
An experienced English speaking Trekking Guide and a Porter during the trek
Salary, food, insurance, and lodging cost for guide and porter (2 trekkers-1 porter)
During the trek, we will have Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Tea/Coffee each time only
Welcome or Farewell Meals and Breakfasts while in Kathmandu
National Park Permit and TIMS for Everest
Airfare from Lukla to Kathmandu and domestic flight departure taxes
Down Jacket and Sleeping Bag to be returned to the office after trek completion
ACH Kitbag and T-shirt for you
Ncell Sim Card (Nepalese Sim Card including 20 GB data pack) - Only 1 for a group.
Cost Exclude
Nepal entry visa fees
International airfare and departure tax
Bar bills, laundry, and other expenses of personal nature
Travel insurance including evacuation
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu except welcome and farewell.
Tips for local staffs, guides, and porters
Desserts, Mineral Water, Hot Shower, Hot Water, Wi-Fi
The Everest Base Camp Helicopter Trek requires two permits:
1) Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and
2) Khumbu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit.
The Nepal Tourism Boards office in Kathmandu or the park’s entrance gate in Monjo can provide you with Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit for NRS 3000.
The fee for citizens of SAARC nations is NRS 1500.
You must complete the permit application and present your passport or a copy of your passport. You must be in Lukla to obtain the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit. The permission costs NRS 2000 and may be acquired at the rural municipality counter on the outskirts of the settlement.
You will not have to worry about waiting for permits since the Alpine Club of Himalaya or our guides will take care of everything.
Everest Region Trek is one of the most facilitated trekking destinations in the country, providing basic to luxury services.
In this trial, you will be provided with a variety of cuisine to choose from. Nepali, Tibetan, Indian, western as well as continental meals. As the region has small tea houses to luxury hotels the facilities, provided are basic to grandeur according to your budget.
Similarly, drinking water is accessible with natural water supplies which are untreated, so direct use of the water is not recommended, you may refill boiling water or cold filter water from any of the teahouses. However, if you buy a water purification tablet, chlorine drops, or utilize SODIS (sunlight assisted) filtration procedures for further assurance, saving money, and reducing plastic pollution.
Accommodations are available in trekking lodges, teahouses as well as several hotels all along the trail, providing basic well-maintained, and reasonably luxury 5-star ones with additional needs according to your budget. Tea houses on the trail vary in quality and price, depending on the amenities they feature.
The tea houses room has twin sharing beds and some basic furniture like a table or a chair. Normally, beds contain pillows, sheets and almost all tea houses provide extra blankets as it will be freezing at night. Usually, hot showers are available throughout the trek.
For trekkers who want to Camp, various campsites are available along the trail.
The best season for trekking to the Everest region is during autumn and spring, the months of September, October, November, March, April, and May.
During the autumn season, the months of September, October, and November the weather is clear with warm temperatures and the visibility is great. As the weather is mild it is very easy to get around the region.
Everest region is most enticing in spring months of March, April, and May as winter concludes, unveiling a transformed landscape. This period showcases a vibrant display of nature’s artistry, featuring varied rhododendron hues, orchid adorned trees, and an expanse of colorful undergrowth against the pristine backdrop of snow-capped peaks under a cerulean sky.
Monsoon season is not favorable for trekking as the weather gets harsh and it is hard to get around the country. Due to frequent landslides and floods, monsoon season is avoided by trekkers.
In the winter season, the area receives a high amount of snowfall, covering most of the trail, and access is denied to most of the regions of Everest, making it impossible to trek.
During the trek, various tea houses provide a wide range of breakfasts. The most common breakfast includes Tibetan Bread (fried bread), Chapati (unleavened flatbread). The bread is provided with jam, butter or peanut butter, Scrambles, or boiled eggs, and vegetable curry.
Corn Flakes, Pancakes, Oats, and Muesli are also available. In some of the tea houses, American breakfast is available. Hot drinks including black tea and coffee are available for breakfast. Also, you may find various freshly baked items.
Common Lunch during the trek:
Dhal Bhat (Nepalese traditional food) is the most common meal found along trekking houses. But various varieties of meals are also available. Thukpa (Noodles) soups, Momos ( dumplings), Macaroni, Fried rice, Pizza, Spaghetti, a variety of soups, steaks, potatoes items, Sandwiches, rice with curry, spring rolls, burgers. Plenty of dessert items are also available.
Common Dinner during the trek:
Dhal Bhat (Nepalese traditional food) is the most common dinner. But you can choose from a wide variety. Momos (dumplings), Thukpa (noodle) soups, Macaroni, Pizza, Spaghetti, Sherpa Stew, steaks, potatoes items, fried rice with curry, Raman soups, burgers, and are available along the tea houses.
Most of the tea houses’ menus offer desserts. Rice pudding, Apple pie, fruit snicker, cake, pastries, etc.
Extra personal expenses for trekking
During the period of trekking meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner with hot drinks) are provided according to your package. Any other personal expenses are not bearded by the company. So, we recommended carrying extra cash just in case of personal expenses.
Responsible Tourism
As responsible for tourism we believe in respecting local communities, their culture, and rules. So, for that region, we would like you to follow some local rules and regulations during the trek.
Always ask your guides for permission before doing something in the local community.
Keep environment clean .
Help the local community to encourage the positive sides of tourism.
Transportations on Trek
All the necessary transportation for your trip will be managed by the Alpine Club of Himalaya upon your request. Transportation is provided on private as well as sharing basis.
Last-Minute Booking Information:
Last-minute booking is available for interested travelers. Though travelers need to inform a day before the trip gets started. If you are making last-minute bookings, you should pay the total amount for the activity. Booking can be made through an online form, email, WhatsApp, or by direct call.
Last-minute bookings for Bhutan and Tibet trips are not available.
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