Classic Everest Base Camp Trek

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport. Your Nepal Visuals representative greets you and transfers you to your hotel in Thamel. Welcome briefing with your guide this evening over a traditional Nepali dinner.

An early morning departure by jeep or bus for the scenic drive to Salleri or Phaplu in the Solu region — the classic approach to Everest before the Lukla airport existed. This route follows ancient Sherpa trade paths and offers a cultural immersion that the flight-in trek never provides.

Start your trek from Junbesi to Nunthala, which takes around 6-7 hours. As you cross the Junbesi Khola and ascend towards the Lamjura Pass, you are treated to panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. The trek passes through dense rhododendron and pine forests and Sherpa villages, offering rich cultural insights along the way.

After breakfast in Nunthala, set off on the scenic trek to Bupsa Danda. The trail first takes you down to the Dudh Koshi River, then through peaceful meadows, terraced paddy fields, and welcoming villages. Follow the river to the charming Rai village of Jubing before a gradual climb to Khari Khola and on to Bupsa Danda.

Continue trekking north along the Dudh Koshi River valley, passing through Sherpa villages with their distinctive prayer wheels and colourful flags. The trail joins the classic EBC route as you reach Phakding — a welcoming teahouse village where the mountain atmosphere begins in earnest.

Cross the Hillary Suspension Bridge and make the steep climb into Namche Bazaar — the Sherpa capital of the Khumbu. The Saturday market here is legendary; Sherpa traders, yak herders, and trekkers all converge. On a clear day, Everest appears for the first time through a ridge gap.

A rest day in Namche is essential for acclimatisation. Hike up to the Everest View Hotel (3,880m) for sunrise over Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. Visit the Sherpa Culture Museum and the National Park headquarters. Return to Namche for the afternoon and a well-deserved rest.

A ridge walk dominated by Ama Dablam on your right shoulder. Pass through Phunki Thanga at the river before the final climb to Tengboche Monastery — the most sacred Buddhist site in the Khumbu. The monastery is set against a breathtaking mountain backdrop; catch the monks evening puja ceremony if timing allows.

Descend through Deboche before climbing again past Pangboche — the highest permanently inhabited village in the Khumbu. The trail opens wide into the Imja Khola valley; stone walls and yak pastures appear everywhere as you reach the trekkers town of Dingboche, ringed by Island Peak, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.

Today, trek from Phorste Thanga to Machhermo in about 6-7 hours. The trail continues to ascend gradually through the Gokyo Valley with views of towering peaks and the Khumbu unique landscapes. Upon arrival in Machhermo, relax and enjoy the scenery as you prepare for the Gokyo Lakes section of the trek.

The trail climbs above the snowline and reveals the first Gokyo Lakes — sacred glacial waters of extraordinary turquoise. Pass the First and Second Lakes before arriving at Gokyo village on the shore of the Third Lake. The Ngozumpa Glacier — the largest glacier in the Himalayas — sprawls across the valley. The afternoon is free to explore the lakeshore.

Rise at dawn for the climb to Gokyo Ri. From the summit: a 360-degree Himalayan skyline featuring Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu simultaneously — plus the three Gokyo Lakes glittering below. Most photographers rate this view above Kala Patthar. Return to Gokyo for rest and acclimatisation.

Start your day with a trek to Thangna, enjoying stunning views of the Gokyo Lakes and surrounding mountains. As you pass through traditional Sherpa villages, take in the local culture and architecture. Thangna offers breathtaking views of Cho Oyu and serves as the gateway to the Cho La Pass crossing tomorrow.

One of the most adventurous days of the trek. The Cho La Pass is a genuine high-mountain glacier crossing at 5,420m — crampons may be required. The initial climb is steep and rocky; the top is a narrow snow and ice ridge with staggering views. The descent to Dzongla is equally dramatic. This is what separates the Classic EBC route from the standard trail.

Trek from Dzongla to Lobuche in about 6-7 hours. The trail leads through rugged landscapes with views of Ama Dablam and Cholatse. You will encounter local yak herders providing insight into the region traditional lifestyle. Lobuche is the perfect place to prepare for the final ascent to Everest Base Camp.

Set off early for your trek to Everest Base Camp along the Khumbu Glacier. At Base Camp: a sea of coloured expedition tents in season, prayer flags, and Everest directly overhead. After soaking in the moment, return to Gorak Shep for dinner and overnight rest.

Rise early for a thrilling hike to Kala Patthar by headtorch for the single best Everest sunrise view on Earth. After the panorama, descend all the way to Pheriche, losing nearly 1,300m of altitude. Your lungs will thank you by nightfall.

Long legs and light packs. Descend through familiar villages — Pangboche, Tengboche — now passed with a sense of ownership and deep calm. The rhododendron forest smells different on the way down. Back in Namche by afternoon for a hot shower and a celebratory meal.

The final day on foot. Reverse the Namche stairs, cross the Hillary Bridge one last time, and follow the Dudh Kosi back to Lukla. The trekking community in Lukla lodges is warm and celebratory — everyone here has the same look: tired, deeply satisfied, and changed.

Weather-dependent morning flight back to Kathmandu. Back in the city by late morning. Afternoon free for Boudhanath Stupa, Thamel shopping, or rest. Farewell dinner with your guide this evening.

Our representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight. Reflect on the unforgettable journey: the Gokyo Lakes, Cho La Pass, and Everest Base Camp — one of the great Himalayan classics.