Everest Base Camp Trek: 9 Must-See Landmarks & Hidden Gems Along the Trail

Written by: Nimesh Jung Gauli Published On Feb 04, 2025

The statue of Tenzing Norgay Sherpa at Namche Bazar with the summit of Everest, Lhotse, Khumbila, and Ama Dablam in the background.

{"time":1738666467075,"blocks":[{"id":"ZEc5-FguLc","type":"quote","data":{"text":"Everest Base Camp isn\u2019t just a trek\u2014it\u2019s a journey through Sherpa heritage, sacred monasteries, and legends written in stone.","caption":"&nbsp; Nimesh Jung Gauli Exploration. Expertise. Inspiration A licensed trekking guide and graduate of Nepal Mountain Academy, his deep expertise ensures every journey is safe, meaningful, and memorable. Through his writing, he connects people with the Himalayas, blending empathy, enthusiasm, and insider knowledge. Feel safe, Create memories, and Break Limits.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;","alignment":"left"}},{"id":"-VobVsB7W2","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"When trekking to Everest Base Camp, people believe base camp to be the ultimate destination \u2013 forget the multiple landmarks &amp; hidden gems along the way. But the Everest Base Camp trek is more than just reaching that iconic rock at 5,364m."}},{"id":"gM1VaE8OqW","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"It\u2019s a journey through history, culture, and inspiring tales of the local Sherpa population. From ancient monasteries to memorial parks honoring legendary climbers, each step to Everest Base Camp holds a story."}},{"id":"XAZq26beS9","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"In this blog, I\u2019ll explore 9 must-see landmarks along the EBC trek \u2014 some famous, some hidden gems."}},{"id":"JQz4-FLMwR","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"If you\u2019re planning your trek, these are the must-sees on your way to the camp."}},{"id":"evoCPoTe2R","type":"image","data":{"url":"https:\/\/app.tripcart.com\/storage\/ZVRUMnNHQklndXZ4Y3VHdGNaU0o2YzFkeTZ2cTUxM1pjL3hFVVZ4ZkJBaz0\/All79QfEP4veuzcGJZZOM6QrqMY95JhUMBjlSytB.webp","caption":"Feel humbled and inspired standing in the shadow of the world\u2019s tallest peak","alt":"Morning panoramic view of Everest, Nuptse, Pumori, and Lhotse from Kala Patthar Viewpoint in Novermber 2024","width":1063,"height":491,"withBorder":false,"withBackground":false,"stretched":false}},{"id":"QI9eJDco91","type":"header","data":{"text":"The Best Cultural &amp; Natural Wonders on the Everest Base Camp Trek","level":2}},{"id":"GfCoP6zh0i","type":"header","data":{"text":"Sagarmatha National Park: Nepal\u2019s High-Altitude Wonderland","level":3}},{"id":"IEU_xwWXSK","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"As soon as you land at the most dangerous airport in the world \u2014 Lukla Airport, your adventure in the UNESCO-listed Sagarmatha National Park begins. Home to rare wildlife, stunning alpine forests, and the mighty \u2018Sagarmatha Mountain\u2019 itself, you will find yourself amazed at the grandeur of this high-altitude national park."}},{"id":"qxLPxySijK","type":"image","data":{"url":"https:\/\/app.tripcart.com\/storage\/ZVRUMnNHQklndXZ4Y3VHdGNaU0o2YzFkeTZ2cTUxM1pjL3hFVVZ4ZkJBaz0\/EjQMpNMibPII89SB2YuvI8xiX9Ky5RSzRd5Dd2oW.webp","caption":"A plane landing on the mountain airstrip in Tenzing - Hillary Airport","alt":"A Sita Air flight landing on the Lukla Airport or the Tenzing - Hillary Airport with runaway captured within the frame.","width":1063,"height":490,"withBorder":false,"withBackground":false,"stretched":false}},{"id":"gdFmsDVaeq","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Interest Fact:<\/b> \u2018Sagarmatha\u2019 is the Nepali term for Mt. Everest. And the Sherpa call it \u201cChomolungma\u201d meaning \u2018Goddess Mother of the World.\u2019"}},{"id":"y0fbZckDug","type":"header","data":{"text":"Everest Base Camp Rock: The Iconic Marker of the Trek\u2019s End","level":3}},{"id":"9CnurizsQH","type":"image","data":{"url":"https:\/\/app.tripcart.com\/storage\/ZVRUMnNHQklndXZ4Y3VHdGNaU0o2YzFkeTZ2cTUxM1pjL3hFVVZ4ZkJBaz0\/55vmUtNqhqp9Ky80SrmNYkvjm0RN7UlDHmWxfNLr.webp","caption":"Our guest, Paul Digby holding the Contour Expeditions banner at 5,364 meters in front of the iconic Everest Base Camp rock.","alt":"Our guest holding the Contour Expeditions Banner at Everest Base Camp (5,364m) with the iconic EBC rock and mountains in the background","width":1063,"height":491,"withBorder":false,"withBackground":false,"stretched":false}},{"id":"XZOaSNV0ZJ","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The iconic Everest Base Camp rock marks the end of the Everest Base Camp trek for most trekkers. Initially donned with red paint marking to signify the end of the EBC trek \u2014 it has now turned into a \u201cvisitor\u2019s rock.\u201d Inscribed with names of people signifying a personal connection."}},{"id":"354iK6UdyF","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Though a natural wonder with hard ice holding the rock on the top, it\u2019s changed over the years due to climate change and is a marker of how temperatures are rising in the Himalayas. It can now be considered a personal milestone. It is shared on the social profiles of every trekker who has made it to Everest Base Camp."}},{"id":"_xcxtZAVja","type":"header","data":{"text":"Tengboche Monastery: The Spiritual Heart of the Khumbu","level":3}},{"id":"55kXSgOhhf","type":"image","data":{"url":"https:\/\/app.tripcart.com\/storage\/ZVRUMnNHQklndXZ4Y3VHdGNaU0o2YzFkeTZ2cTUxM1pjL3hFVVZ4ZkJBaz0\/58OtfopSLdNDmoGVbWz4EbvnlSF3q4kSW6PBhYV9.webp","caption":"Experience the peace and spirituality that radiates from this sacred site that was rebuilt after being destroyed by a Fire and an Earthquake on two separate occasions","alt":"The entrance to the monastery of Tengboche in the Everest region with portrait of the head monk","width":1063,"height":387,"withBorder":false,"withBackground":false,"stretched":false}},{"id":"lqeaK3-qde","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The Tengboche Monastery might not be a natural wonder, but it is most definitely a cultural wonder. Having been destroyed in an earthquake and a fire, this monastery has been rebuilt twice with help from local and international communities.&nbsp;"}},{"id":"zh5fhKg0Dt","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The trek to Everest Base Camp can never be considered complete without visiting and witnessing the prayer ceremony at Tengboche Monastery in Nepal. As a bonus, it offers stunning views of Mt. Ama Dablam."}},{"id":"sG-lneJT1W","type":"header","data":{"text":"Hotel Everest View: The Highest Luxury Hotel in the World","level":3}},{"id":"qr4Y0bCHrV","type":"image","data":{"url":"https:\/\/app.tripcart.com\/storage\/ZVRUMnNHQklndXZ4Y3VHdGNaU0o2YzFkeTZ2cTUxM1pjL3hFVVZ4ZkJBaz0\/3TGK6GXXe9wgA8tuVKveSLMDigTVJSDTOx5XxLjE.webp","caption":"Our guest, Paul Digby, sips warm tea as he poses for a picture with the Khumbu Valley and its majestic mountains","alt":"Our guest sips tea and poses infront of the majestic Khumbu mountains in crystal clear weather","width":1063,"height":491,"withBorder":false,"withBackground":false,"stretched":false}},{"id":"Di7vV2MQnM","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Want to sip tea while enjoying an uninterrupted view of Everest?&nbsp;"}},{"id":"_qr4aN-KqE","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"You could take up the opportunity to stay overnight or a day\u2019s hike for a warm drink and panoramic views of Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Nuptse, and Mt. Ama Dablam. The Everest View Hotel in Syanboche is listed as the world\u2019s highest-altitude hotel at 3,880m."}},{"id":"VZS_pcK88I","type":"header","data":{"text":"Everest Memorial Park: Honoring Fallen Climbers","level":3}},{"id":"nrLvQyCvLk","type":"image","data":{"url":"https:\/\/app.tripcart.com\/storage\/ZVRUMnNHQklndXZ4Y3VHdGNaU0o2YzFkeTZ2cTUxM1pjL3hFVVZ4ZkJBaz0\/p1hinH3qQXtWLq1PawCQwkrEv37oLcCnGVKubh8g.webp","caption":"Trekkers resting beside the Everest Memorial site of climbers and sherpas that lost their lives on Everest.","alt":"The Everest Memorial site for over 100 climbers and Sherpas who lost their lives in the mountains.","width":1063,"height":491,"withBorder":false,"withBackground":false,"stretched":false}},{"id":"HWKJ5H0ew7","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Atop the Thukla Pass\u2014Dugh-La, the Everest Memorial Park is a heart-wrenching site that commemorates the climbers who\u2019ve lost their lives on Everest. The stone memorials, set against the vast mountain landscape, are a humbling reminder of the risks and rewards of high-altitude mountaineering."}},{"id":"2suhSWaNSB","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The memorials are constructed with local resources, and they commemorate the various tragedies that occurred on Mount Everest, including the 1996 and 2014 tragedies."}},{"id":"t4G81kCU5L","type":"header","data":{"text":"Khumbu Climbing Center: Training Nepal\u2019s Next Generation of Mountaineers","level":3}},{"id":"G7kDmAaHnr","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The Khumbu Climbing Center can be considered the second home of American rock climber, mountaineer, and author Conrad Anker. Founded by the Alex Lowe Foundation and now managed by The Juniper Fund, KCC in Phortse is where Sherpa climbers and guides receive training in climbing, rescue skills, and high-altitude survival."}},{"id":"0OzwChNVgh","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Pay them a visit on the way out of Everest Base Camp, and you could also make a small contribution to help the Sherpa community."}},{"id":"q4WIyqyqFo","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Check out their <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thejuniperfund.org\/khumbu-climbing-center\">Website<\/a>!"}},{"id":"Pyp9stJ7Gs","type":"image","data":{"url":"https:\/\/app.tripcart.com\/storage\/ZVRUMnNHQklndXZ4Y3VHdGNaU0o2YzFkeTZ2cTUxM1pjL3hFVVZ4ZkJBaz0\/Zj7DweWYK4mTQ3nkcGM7BpYTR4dCwi37baq0UEql.webp","caption":"A lodge in Lobuche with a mountain painted in golden hue at sunset.","alt":"A mountain lodge along the Everest Base Camp Trek, infront of a mountain painted in golden hue at sunset.","width":1063,"height":489,"withBorder":false,"withBackground":false,"stretched":false}},{"id":"pORP8VIlP8","type":"header","data":{"text":"Unique &amp; Lesser-Known Stops Along the Way","level":2}},{"id":"8tDpboKBGI","type":"header","data":{"text":"The Sherpa Culture Museum: A Window into the Everest Region\u2019s Heritage","level":3}},{"id":"d6_A2tedb_","type":"image","data":{"url":"https:\/\/app.tripcart.com\/storage\/ZVRUMnNHQklndXZ4Y3VHdGNaU0o2YzFkeTZ2cTUxM1pjL3hFVVZ4ZkJBaz0\/n0WSAcD0AfKxVjIFtDChbcPEQV950rpDaU7DgT62.webp","caption":"The Statue of Tenzing Norgay Sherpa with the Summit of Mt. Everest in the Background.","alt":"The statue of Tenzing Norgay Sherpa at Namche Bazar with the summit of Everest, Lhotse, Khumbila, and Ama Dablam in the background.","width":1063,"height":489,"withBorder":false,"withBackground":false,"stretched":false}},{"id":"l4-8wgv2U9","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Located in the tourist hub of the Khumbu, Namche Bazar, the Sherpa Culture Museum showcases the traditional Sherpa attire, artifacts, and mountaineering gear used in the historic expeditions."}},{"id":"ov34c4ajlg","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Also known as \u2018The Sherwi Khangba Center,\u2019 this museum was built in 1990 with the help of Lhakpa Sonam Sherpa and his Swiss friends with the vision to conserve the Sherpa heritage. This museum is looked after by Lhakpa and his family with support from \u2018Mountain Museum Foundation.\u2019"}},{"id":"DjHhVSgHXK","type":"header","data":{"text":"Edmund Hillary &amp; The Legend of the Yeti: Stories from the Trail","level":3}},{"id":"wVc4CWonDF","type":"image","data":{"url":"https:\/\/app.tripcart.com\/storage\/ZVRUMnNHQklndXZ4Y3VHdGNaU0o2YzFkeTZ2cTUxM1pjL3hFVVZ4ZkJBaz0\/ExVbyAubDhqW2P4iumkuPvDfaTf9Ht8ekJaKvtm1.webp","caption":"The scalp of the Yeti is preserved in a box within the Khumjung Monastery","alt":"Scalp of the Yeti preserved in a box inside Khumjung Monastery","width":1063,"height":833,"withBorder":false,"withBackground":false,"stretched":false}},{"id":"nQAuMIvEED","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"From the folklore of the Himalayas to the chronicles of Eric Shipton, the legend of Yeti has turned heads around the world. Some speculate it to be a mythical creature, while some believe it to be an ancestor of the human race."}},{"id":"1bEzO1qq3U","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Whatever the truth, the Khumjung monastery seems to have a scalp of the Yeti. And you can visit the monastery to peek at the folklore surrounding the Yeti in the Everest region."}},{"id":"0UN0ouNF5J","type":"header","data":{"text":"The Mysteries of Mt. Everest Waste &amp; Environmental Efforts","level":3}},{"id":"oWg8wFfmAf","type":"image","data":{"url":"https:\/\/app.tripcart.com\/storage\/ZVRUMnNHQklndXZ4Y3VHdGNaU0o2YzFkeTZ2cTUxM1pjL3hFVVZ4ZkJBaz0\/qTazuvTpLyl9rQc9Otqzf4dWPD3mAD9cCIa3R6KP.webp","caption":"Hand of Everest, an art installation made by Benjamin Von Wong at Sagarmatha Next. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sagarmathanext.com\/interact\/exhibitions\/benjamin-von-wong\/\">Sagarmatha Next<\/a>","alt":"Hand of Everest, an art installation made by Benjamin Von Wong at Sagarmatha Next","width":1063,"height":1329,"withBorder":false,"withBackground":false,"stretched":false}},{"id":"BMgkrsm3Pg","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The trash on Mt. Everest is a serious problem. The waste left behind by expeditions \u2014 including oxygen bottles, tents, and human waste, has led to clean-up efforts. The Everest Waste Management Project is working hard to preserve the beauty of the mountain."}},{"id":"ZU1Nw6OL4F","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Meanwhile, Sagarmatha Next, the first project of Himalayan Museum and Sustainability Park (a non-profit organization), aims to promote sustainable tourism by changing locals' perceptions of waste management."}},{"id":"fXlQN1yDak","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Through their Art Residency program, they are experimenting and creating unique sculptures that garner attention towards the environmental impact of their actions."}},{"id":"f9NYpH85mb","type":"header","data":{"text":"Conclusion: Your Adventure Awaits","level":2}},{"id":"joKTQF-tn-","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Thus, the Everest Base Camp Trek is more than just a hike \u2014it\u2019s a deep dive into the Khumbu Himalayas, filled with Sherpa culture, history, artworks, and awe-inspiring landscapes."}},{"id":"xuEiTli9yH","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Are you ready to stand in the shadow of the world's tallest peak? Discover the magic of the <a href=\"https:\/\/contourexpeditions.com\/tours\/everest-base-camp-trek-14-days\/\">Everest Base Camp Trek<\/a> with us."}},{"id":"yNiUyRcdye","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Would you like to learn more about this epic journey?"}},{"id":"L7g3zyBGyx","type":"image","data":{"url":"https:\/\/app.tripcart.com\/storage\/ZVRUMnNHQklndXZ4Y3VHdGNaU0o2YzFkeTZ2cTUxM1pjL3hFVVZ4ZkJBaz0\/R6sqXNSeVjPyvYjL5GLkjQynYteFwIzfgdixhbTH.webp","caption":"Our guest, Paul Digby, holds\ud83d\udcaa the iconic Everest Base Camp rock!","alt":"Our guest, Paul Digby posing as if holding the iconic Everest Base Camp Rock on his shoulders in Novermber 2024.","width":1063,"height":491,"withBorder":false,"withBackground":false,"stretched":false}},{"id":"QYM3Rhx7xt","type":"header","data":{"text":"FAQs: Your Concerns; Our Assurance","level":2}},{"id":"kQX9CP1s4n","type":"header","data":{"text":"How long does it take to trek to Everest Base Camp?","level":3}},{"id":"7lwXx9CXWk","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The trek to Everest Base Camp typically takes 12-14 days, including acclimatization days, to avoid altitude sickness. You can find our detailed itinerary here: Everest Base Camp - 14 Days."}},{"id":"ZADMD-4svg","type":"header","data":{"text":"When is the best time to trek to Everest Base Camp?","level":3}},{"id":"dPZY7N6iXX","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The best time to trek to Everest Base Camp is Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). These months offer the best weather conditions and clear mountain views for the perfect adventure to Everest Base Camp."}},{"id":"9H_8NKoUmR","type":"header","data":{"text":"Do I need prior trekking experience?","level":3}},{"id":"qSDaKAvElb","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"No, prior trekking experience is not required for Everest Base Camp trek. However, it is essential to have a good level of fitness. We have the perfect training plan for you to get trek-ready in 90 days!"}},{"id":"A1_NgRkURo","type":"header","data":{"text":"What permits do I need for the trek?","level":3}},{"id":"HKjiZ66aDe","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Permits are required for the Everest Base Camp trek as mandated by the government and local authorities in Sagarmatha National Park. The required permits are:"}},{"id":"Dyl9RSVhVv","type":"list","data":{"style":"unordered","items":[{"content":"Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit<\/b>","items":[]},{"content":"Khumbu Rural Municipality Entry Permit<\/b>","items":[]}]}},{"id":"YEddkWNKfG","type":"header","data":{"text":"What is the accommodation like on the EBC trek?","level":3}},{"id":"jV5zYyI_3_","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Teahouses are the typical form of accommodation along the route, and they provide basic but comfortable accommodation with warm meals and hot tea."}},{"id":"Mn6mAG4T2p","type":"header","data":{"text":"Is altitude sickness a concern?","level":3}},{"id":"7R24nm55PB","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Altitude sickness is a significant concern for trekking in the Everest region. However, it can be easily managed through gradual ascending and staying hydrated."}},{"id":"btnxtZUfPk","type":"header","data":{"text":"What gear do I need?","level":3}},{"id":"8rzYTSLIc2","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"You require warm layers, a good sleeping bag, sturdy boots, and a down jacket to help you during extreme weather conditions. You can check out our Everest Packing List blog for more details"}},{"id":"WDeZY9h6bQ","type":"header","data":{"text":"Can I charge my phone and camera on the trek?","level":3}},{"id":"RwQ9KqkKSR","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Yes, you can charge your phone and camera on the trek. However, the teahouses use Solar Power for electricity, which isn\u2019t suitable for charging; it is advised to carry a power bank or a portable charger with you."}},{"id":"6tY5Vo2WDR","type":"header","data":{"text":"What\u2019s the food like on the trail?","level":3}},{"id":"yawlbmZ7It","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The food on the trail is nutritious, with all essential ingredients to keep you energized and hydrated throughout the trek. With hearty meals like DalBhat, Momo, Noodle Soups. However, you need to be careful because all of the meat is carried from Lukla. We advise you to stay away from meals that include meat in them."}},{"id":"V49Vl0vSLK","type":"header","data":{"text":"Why book with Contour Expeditions?","level":3}},{"id":"-PrNcTDwAg","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"If you\u2019re in search of expert local guides, responsible tourism practitioners, and bespoke trekking experiences, Contour Expeditions ensures a safe and memorable journey to Everest Base Camp."}}],"version":"2.30.6"}

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