About Short Everest Base Camp Trek 12 Days Cost | Itinerary

Short Everest Base Camp Trek 12 Days from Kathmandu

The 12 Days EBC Trek organized by Himalayan Asia Treks is a thrilling adventure designed for trekkers eager to experience the iconic Everest Trek Nepal. This carefully crafted 12 day Everest Base Camp trek itinerary takes you through the heart of the Khumbu region, showcasing Sherpa culture, dramatic landscapes, and panoramic views of the Himalayas. The EBC Trek itinerary includes highlights like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche Monastery, and the unforgettable Trek to Everest Base Camp and Kalapatthar. This all-inclusive Everest Base Camp trekking package offers excellent value for the EBC trek cost, ensuring a memorable and safe journey to Everest Base Camp Nepal. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned hiker, this Nepal Everest trek 12 days is a life-changing experience not to be missed.

The Short Everest Base Camp Trek 12 Days organized by Himalayan Asia Treks was an incredible journey, perfectly designed for adventure seekers with limited time. From the breathtaking Everest Base Camp trek route to the warm hospitality of the teahouses, every detail was thoughtfully planned. The challenging yet rewarding trails, stunning views of iconic peaks like Everest, and the camaraderie among trekkers made it unforgettable. The trek's manageable Everest Base Camp Trek cost and expert guides ensured a safe and enriching experience at this legendary Everest Base Camp height. Truly, a dream come true!

The Short Everest Base Camp Trek is a meticulously crafted 12-day journey through the heart of the Himalayas, ideal for adventurers seeking to experience the splendor of Mount Everest in a condensed timeframe. Organized by Himalayan Asia Treks, this trek combines stunning landscapes, cultural immersion, and a well-paced itinerary that ensures both challenge and enjoyment.

Overview of the Everest Base Camp Trek 12 Days

The Short Everest Base Camp Trek 12 Days offers an immersive experience in the heart of the Himalayas for adventurers with limited time. This itinerary is crafted to maximize the trek's essence, beginning with a scenic flight to Lukla and traversing through picturesque Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Dingboche. The journey culminates at the iconic Everest Base Camp and the breathtaking viewpoint of Kala Patthar. With stunning landscapes, rich cultural encounters, and close views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam, this trek is an unforgettable adventure for all mountain enthusiasts.

The 12-Day Everest Trek is a perfect balance of adventure and efficiency. This Short EBC Trek follows the classic Everest Base Camp trek route, starting with a scenic flight to Lukla, the gateway to the Khumbu region, and culminating at the iconic Everest Base Camp. Designed for trekkers with limited time, this itinerary maximizes the experience without compromising on acclimatization and safety.

  • Duration: 12 Days
  • Maximum Altitude: 5,364m (Everest Base Camp)
  • Trek Grade: Moderate to challenging
  • Best Time: Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November)

Everest Base Camp Trek 12 Days Itinerary from Kathmandu

The 12-day Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek typically begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. From Lukla, the trekking route takes you through Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, and Gorakshep before reaching Everest Base Camp (5,364m) and hiking up to Kala Patthar (5,545m) for panoramic views of Everest. Afterward, you retrace your steps to Lukla and fly back to Kathmandu. This itinerary includes essential acclimatization days, especially in Namche and Dingboche, to minimize altitude sickness risk.

Day 1: Fly to Lukla (2,860m) and trek to Phakding (2,610m)

Day 2: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)

Day 3: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar

Day 4: Trek to Tengboche (3,860m)

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

Day 6: Acclimatization Day in Dingboche

Day 7: Trek to Lobuche (4,910m)

Day 8: Trek to Everest Base Camp (5,364m) and overnight at Gorak Shep (5,164m)

Day 9: Hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m) and trek back to Pheriche (4,210m)

Day 10: Trek to Namche Bazar

Day 11: Trek to Lukla.

Day 12: Fly back to Kathmandu.

How Difficult is Everest Base Camp Trek in 12 Days

The Everest Base Camp trek in 12 days is moderately to strenuously difficult. The challenge comes primarily from the high altitude, long trekking days (5–8 hours daily), and changing weather conditions. While no technical climbing is involved, trekkers must be in good physical shape. Acclimatization days help, but the quick pace can still be demanding for beginners. Prior trekking experience and cardiovascular fitness will ease the journey.

Best Time for Everest Base Camp Trek 12 Days

The best times to complete the 12-day Everest Base Camp trek are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer stable weather, clear mountain views, and comfortable daytime temperatures. The skies are typically blue, with less rainfall and good visibility of peaks like Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. Monsoon (June to August) and winter (December to February) are less ideal due to rain, snow, and poor visibility.

What to Pack for 12 Days Everest Base Camp Trek

For a 12-day EBC trek, pack essential gear including a down jacket, waterproof and windproof outer layers, warm fleece or wool layers, thermal underwear, hiking pants, gloves, trekking poles, a warm hat, sunglasses, a headlamp, and sturdy hiking boots. Bring a sleeping bag rated for -10°C to -15°C, a water purifier or tablets, snacks, a first-aid kit, sunscreen, toiletries, and a few quick-dry t-shirts. Don’t forget your passport, TIMS card, and trekking permits.

Everest Base Camp 12 Days Trek Cost from Kathmandu

The average cost for the 12-day Everest Base Camp trek from Kathmandu ranges between USD 1,400 to USD 1,800 per person, depending on the services included. This typically covers domestic flights (Kathmandu–Lukla–Kathmandu), accommodation in teahouses, all meals during the trek, guide and porter services, permits (Sagarmatha National Park and TIMS), and ground transfers. Luxury treks or helicopter returns will significantly increase the cost.

Everest Base Camp Trek 12 Days with Guide and Porter

Hiring a licensed guide and porter is highly recommended for the 12-day Everest Base Camp trek. A guide offers safety, navigation, and cultural insights, while a porter will carry your heavy load, allowing you to enjoy the trek more comfortably. Most trekking companies offer packages with experienced English-speaking guides and one porter per two trekkers. Their support is invaluable, especially at high altitudes and during inclement weather.

How to Prepare for 12 Days EBC Trek in Nepal

To prepare for the 12-day EBC trek, start a fitness routine 2–3 months in advance focusing on cardio exercises, strength training, and hiking practice. Aim to walk 5–6 hours with a backpack to simulate trekking conditions. Stay hydrated, eat a balanced diet, and consider shorter altitude hikes before the trip. Research the route, get proper gear, and consult your doctor about altitude sickness prevention (e.g., Diamox).

Everest Base Camp Trek 12 Days Including Lukla Flight

Most 12-day Everest Base Camp Treks start and end with a flight between Kathmandu and Lukla. The 30–40-minute flight is a scenic and time-efficient way to access the trailhead. However, weather in Lukla is unpredictable, and flights can be delayed or canceled. Some itineraries may use Ramechhap (Manthali Airport) instead of Kathmandu during peak seasons due to air traffic regulations.

12 Days Everest Base Camp Trek with Acclimatization

A well-designed 12-day Everest Base Camp itinerary includes two crucial acclimatization days: one in Namche Bazaar (3,440m) and another in Dingboche (4,410m). These rest days allow your body to adjust to the altitude and prevent Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). On these days, trekkers typically do short hikes to higher elevations like Everest View Hotel or Nagarjun Hill before returning to sleep at the same altitude.

Everest Base Camp Trekking 12 Days Without Flight

If you prefer to avoid flights, an EBC Trek without Lukla flights requires more time than 12 days, as you’ll need to trek in from Salleri or Jiri—towns accessible by road from Kathmandu. This adds 4–7 days to the journey, making a 12-day itinerary without flying impractical. However, if you're looking to avoid the Lukla flight entirely, consider a drive to Phaplu/Salleri and adjust the itinerary accordingly for a longer trek.

Highlights

  • Scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla to Kathmandu. 
  • Exploring the Everest Base Camp.
  • Everest Base Camp Trekking covers up to 5545 meters.
  • The Everest Base Camp Trekking route is through Sherpa village.
  • The Buddhist culture in Everest Base Camp Trekking route.
  • Breathtaking view of Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, and other peaks.
  • Culture and lifestyle of Sherpa people in Everest region.
  • Various monasteries and Gompa in the Everest region.

Day to Day Itinerary

After reaching Kathmandu, you will be picked up for Fly to Lukla which is for approx. 40 minutes where you can enjoy breathtaking stunning views of mountain rages and valleys. Reach Lukla and then the journey of trekking to Phakding will start which is at altitude level of approx. 2800m. Here you can capture beautiful rural sights in the entire trek.
Overnight in Phakding.

  • Meals: Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge.
  • Location: Phakding.
  • Altitude: 2800m.

On this day, you will start trekking to Namche Bazaar which is situated at altitude level of approx. 3440m. You will go through Dudh Koshi River along the side and pass through Zapute, Toktok, Benkar, Chumoa to Monjo through thick green forest. Some of the Beautiful Glimpses of Everest could be seen from here but not clearly. We will break at small beautiful tea houses and shops. Overnight stay in the Namche Bazar.

  • Meals: Breakfast,Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge.
  • Location: Namche Bazar.
  • Altitude: 3800m.

This day will be rest day at Namche Bazaar. Namche is the popular Acclimatization stop for the trekkers to this route. You can visit the Namche Bazaar market and Namche Monastery this day. You can also buy interesting items from Namche bazaar as your trek memory or you have option to visit Khumjung, Khunde and Khongde village which further adds value to your acclimatization while allowing you to enjoy the glorious views of Mt. Everest surrounded by snow-capped peaks along with exploring Sherpa culture.
Overnight stay at lodge in Namche bazaar.

  • Meals: Breakfast,Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge.
  • Location: Namche bazaar.
  • Altitude: 3800m.

Tengboche is one of the most beautiful places in the entire trekking route. Just enjoy and explore the beauty of this small valley. The trail is accompanied with eminent views of Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse , Mt. Nuptse and Mt. Ama Dablam along with a very close up view of Thamserku.
Overnight in Tengboche.

  • Meals: Breakfast,Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge.
  • Location: Tengboche.
  • Altitude: 3800m.

The trek will start in morning after breakfast and go towards Pangboche village where stunning views of Mount Ama Dablam can be seen. The trekkers will pass through Labuche River and steep up to Dingboche.
Overnight in Dingboche.

  • Meals: Breakfast,Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge.
  • Location: Dingboche.
  • Altitude: 4260m.

This day will also be the acclimatization day at Dingboche where along with resting you can enjoy the view of world’s top 3 mountain peaks i.e. Mount Lhotse, Mount Makalu and Mount Cho Yu. Overnight in Dingboche.

  • Meals: Breakfast,Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge.
  • Location: Dingboche.
  • Altitude: 4260m.

After breakfast, the trail will go to Lobuche besides the Khumbu glacier. The trail is a short and steep hike from Dughla. You must take picture capture with this outstanding route as it is full of mountaineer’s memorials.
Overnight in Lobuche.

  • Meals: Breakfast,Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge.
  • Location: Lobuche.
  • Altitude: 4930m.

The route is entirely glacier first. Today is the most important day because trekkers can touch world’s highest peak’s Everest Base Camp. You can mesmerize your holidays in picture. Trekking to Everest Base Camp is the pinnacle of the adventure, where trekkers step foot on the legendary site that serves as the launching point for Everest expeditions. The journey to base camp offers a glimpse into the mountaineering world and a chance to witness the camaraderie of climbers and the logistical hub that supports their endeavours. The return to Gorakshep brings trekkers back to the cozy village nestled in the Himalayan landscape, allowing for reflection on the achievement and a chance to savor the beauty of the surrounding peaks.

  • Meals: Breakfast,Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge.
  • Location: Gorak Shep.
  • Altitude: 5164m.

The hike to Kala Patthar and subsequent trek back to Pheriche is a memorable leg of the journey that promises breathtaking panoramas and a sense of accomplishment. Kala Patthar, standing at an impressive 5,545 meters, offers one of the most iconic viewpoints in the Everest region. From its summit, trekkers are rewarded with an unparalleled sunrise view over the Himalayan giants, including Everest. After soaking in the majestic scenery, the descent to Pheriche follows, allowing trekkers to gradually retrace their steps and immerse themselves in the unique culture of the region.

  • Meals: Breakfast,Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge.
  • Location: Pheriche.
  • Altitude: 4371m.

For 6 - 7 hours, you have to descend from Pheriche to Namche Bazaar and then take a little hike before Tengboche and after Phungi Thanga.
Overnight in Namche Bazar.


  • Meals: Breakfast,Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge.
  • Location: Namche Bazar.
  • Altitude: 3440m.

Enjoy your last day of trekking in Khumbu region. Walking towards lukla, the trail is quite difficult although not hard at all. Overnight in Lukla.


  • Meals: Breakfast,Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge.
  • Location: Lukla
  • Altitude: 2860m.

Today is the last day of Everest Base Camp Trek 12  Days. You will be returned to Kathmandu loaded with trek memories through flight for final departure.


  • Meals: Breakfast.
  • Location: Kathmandu.

What's Included

  • Accommodation on mountain lodge in twin or double sharing.
  • Ground transportation (Airport pick up and drop, sightseeing by private).
  • Flight ticket of Kathmandu – Lukla- Kathmandu.
  • Three times meals at Everest base camp trekking route.
  • Government licensed English speaking guide.
  • Porter (one porter for two person and carry 20 kg).
  • All necessary paper work like Permit and TIMS card (Trekkers information management system).
  • Sagarmatha national park entrance fees.
  • Salary, Food, Drinks, Accommodation, Transportation and Insurance for the Guide and Porter.
  • Travel and rescue arrangement.
  • All our government taxes, vat, official expenses & service charges.
  • Twenty four call assistance by our office representative.
  • Farewell dinner in typical Nepali restaurant.
  • Sleeping bag and duffel bag will provide by our company have to return after trek.
  • Government taxes and office service charge.
  • Meals in Kathmandu .
  • Any type of insurance.
  • Personal nature expenses like bar bills, water, tea coffee, shower, laundry, wi fi in trekking route.
  • Tips (Not Mandatory but expected).
  • Any extra cost which is not mentioned in Cost includes column.
  • Extra day for natural calamities like flood, landslide, flight cancellation.

Price & Dates

Useful Information

What is the Everest Base Camp Trek 12 Days itinerary?

Day 01: Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla and trek to Phakding

Day 02: Trek to Namche Bazaar

Day 03: Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazaar

Day 04: Trek to Tengboche

Day 05: Trek to Dingboche

Day 06: Acclimatization Day at Dingboche

Day 07: Trek to Lobuche

Day 08: Trek to Gorak Shep, then Everest Base Camp

Day 09: Hike to Kala Patthar and return to Pheriche

Day 10: Trek back to Namche Bazaar

Day 11: Trek to Lukla

Day 12: Fly back to Kathmandu

How difficult is the Everest Base Camp Trek?

The trek is considered moderate to strenuous. It does not require technical climbing, but you will be walking 5–7 hours a day at high altitudes, with elevations up to 5,545 meters (Kala Patthar). Physical fitness, acclimatization, and mental preparation are essential.

What is the best time to do the EBC 12 Days Trek?

The best seasons are:

  • Spring (March to May) – Clear skies, blooming rhododendrons
  • Autumn (September to November) – Stable weather and excellent mountain views
Avoid the monsoon (June–August) and mid-winter (late December to February) due to poor visibility and cold temperatures.

Do I need a permit for this trek?

Yes, you need the following permits:

  • Sagarmatha National Park Permit
  • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit (Local Permit)
Himalayan Asia Treks or your chosen trekking agency will usually arrange these for you.

What is included in the Everest Base Camp Trek package?

In a standard package, you can expect:

  • Domestic flights (Kathmandu–Lukla–Kathmandu)
  • Accommodation in teahouses
  • All meals during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
  • Guide and porter services
  • Trekking permits
  • Airport transfers
Check your specific for detailed inclusions/exclusions.

Is altitude sickness a concern?

Yes. The trek goes above 5,000 meters, so Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is a risk. Acclimatization days, hydration, proper pacing, and listening to your body are key. Some trekkers take Diamox (consult your doctor before use).

Do I need prior trekking experience?

While no technical climbing experience is required, prior experience with multi-day hikes and good physical conditioning is highly recommended. A few months of training with cardio, strength, and endurance exercises helps.

What kind of accommodation is available?

You’ll stay in local teahouses or lodges, which provide basic but clean rooms—usually twin-sharing—with shared bathrooms. In lower altitudes, rooms may have attached bathrooms.

What should I pack for the EBC Trek?

Essential gear includes:

  • Sleeping bag (rated for -10°C or lower)
  • Down jacket and warm layers
  • Trekking boots
  • Thermal base layers
  • Trekking poles
  • Daypack
  • Water purification tablets or bottles
Himalayan Asia Treks provide a full packing list or help with gear rental in Kathmandu.

Is internet or phone signal available on the trek?

Yes, internet (WiFi) is available in most hotel for a fee. Ncell and NTC networks offer patchy mobile coverage along the route. Everest Link cards also offer prepaid internet in high-altitude areas.

How much does the Everest Base Camp 12 Days Trek cost?

The average price ranges from USD 1,400 to 1,600, depending on inclusions, group size, and company reputation. Luxury treks with helicopter returns or upgraded lodges cost more.

Can I do this trek solo or do I need a guide?

It is possible to trek independently, but hiring a licensed guide and porter is highly recommended for safety, navigation, cultural insight, and better acclimatization support. Solo trekking in remote areas can be risky.

What happens in case of emergencies?

If you face altitude sickness or injury, the guide will assess the situation and arrange for a helicopter evacuation if necessary. Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation.

Are there ATMs or card facilities on the trail?

ATMs are available in Lukla and Namche Bazaar, but reliability is low. Carry enough Nepali cash (NPR) from Kathmandu to cover extra costs like WiFi, hot showers, snacks, and charging.

Is tipping required?

Tipping is customary and appreciated. As a general guideline:

  • Guide: USD 5–10 per day
  • Porter: USD 3–6 per day

    You can tip more based on the service quality