Whether you’re a first-time climber or experienced hiker, there are a few things you should know before you begin your trek to Everest Base Camp. The weather is unpredictable in winter and temperatures often drop to 25 degrees fahrenheit, making overnight hikes difficult. However, if you have the right equipment and enough time, you can successfully conquer the EBC.
Route to Everest Base Camp
The Route to Everest Base Camp is a demanding trek, covering over 130 kilometers (95 miles) and reaching the highest altitude in the world (more than 17,000 feet). You’ll need a good level of physical fitness and a healthy dose of wanderlust before embarking on the trek.
The route to Everest Base Camp can take four or five days to complete. You’ll need sturdy waterproof boots, a four-season tent, sleeping bag rated for zero degrees, and heavy-weight long underwear. You’ll also want to carry a lightweight down jacket and a fleece jacket, as well as waterproof rain gear and expedition-weight socks.
One of the best ways to stay healthy during the trek is to consume plenty of vitamins. It’s a good idea to carry multi-vitamin tablets to keep your immune system functioning well. Other good choices include garlic and vitamin C. If you’re worried about a cold, consider taking a vitamin C tablet and a B complex.
Although November/December is a popular trekking period, only 22% of trekkers make it to Everest Base Camp during this time. While the region is drier during this time, it’s also one of the most colorful times of the year, when the Himalayan Tahr and Monal are on the move.
Itinerary to Everest Base Camp
If you are planning a trip to Everest Base Camp, you will need to know the weather conditions before you go. The temperature at Everest Base Camp varies from 7 degC during the day to -12 degC at night. In the spring and autumn, temperatures are relatively pleasant. In the winter, temperatures can drop to -13 degC or less.
The ideal time to visit Everest Base Camp is between March and May. This avoids the monsoon and winter, which can cause slippery trails and lodge closures. If you are pressed for time, you can choose to go during the winter months, but you should avoid the peak of acclimatization. It is not recommended to shorten the acclimatization time as it increases the risk of illness. Make sure you have a valid vaccination certificate. It should show that you have received the full dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and that you have had a COVID-19 test within 72 hours.
There are two ways to reach Everest Base Camp. The shortest route takes about 11 days, but requires physical fitness. Experienced trekkers are recommended for this route.
Altitude challenge
The EBC Trek is a challenging trekking trip. The EBC trek begins at an elevation of 3,000 meters and reaches a maximum altitude of 5400 meters at its base. You should avoid the trek if you are prone to altitude sickness. It is also recommended to consult a medical professional before hiking at such a high altitude.
Before embarking on the EBC Trek acclimatization days are essential. It will take about a day to become acclimated to the altitude. You will also need to take a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, the starting point of the trek. From there, you’ll trek to Dingboche and Namche Bazar. From here, you will be at an altitude of 5,364 meters, and it will take you around 1.5 hours to return to Pheriche.