Sunday, August 9, 2020

Cheap Everest Base Camp Trek 17 Days: Cost, Itinerary, Altitude and Difficulties

 The Everest Base Camp trek takes us deep into the heart of one of the most popular trekking regions on earth. This trip would be great for first time trekkers… 

Everest Base Camp: These three words represent one of the world’s most well-liked trips, a status symbol; but offer real dreams for adventure lovers globally. This 17 days Everest Base Camp trek is an opportunity for your dreams to turn real and test your limits. Our trip begins with a thrilling mountain flight to the legendary airport of Lukla; built with the help of famous mountaineer late Sir Edmund Hillary. From this namesake, the famous trail of the Everest Base Camp was born. On touchdown at Lukla airport, we meet our senior guide and the other crew members: who begin to sort out our equipment. Sooner than later, we hit these popular trails to the foothills of the king of all peaks – Mt. Everest. Our cost-friendly Everest base camp trek will guide you through the best mountain trails in the world. There’s never a dull moment on this journey.

Why the Everest Base Camp trek would be ideal for you:

We hike deep into the heart of the Himalayas for about 5-8 hours a day through Sherpa territory. However, the well-cultivated fields and pretty villages warm the heart. Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay laid a future base when they conquered Everest in 1953. Today, it’s a tradition and has become a true challenge for greenhorns who enjoy altitude. Nevertheless, the Everest Base Camp difficulty doesn’t spoil the thrills of outdoor adventure. There’s enough important time to acclimatize for Everest Base Camp altitude on the go. We climb into alpine zones with stunning scenery; and also enter the well known Tengboche monastery for a chat with friendly monks. We proceed further to EBC and this is where we begin our steep climb up the iconic Kalapaththar at 5545m. Nonetheless, upfront views of mighty Everest leave us gasping for breath, so close, but yet so far.
 
We spend some prime time on Kalapaththar with our video cams busy for some of the best pictures on earth. Real close-up views of the spectacular landscapes surrounding us from all angles leave us breathless for some time…it’s simply incredible!! As a result, the awesome experiences of this trip far outweigh our Everest Base Camp Trek cost. This is a once-in-a-lifetime trek you’re likely never going to forget. If you’re looking for something more challenging, try our ‘3 High Passes’ trek which would be ideal for experienced trekkers who’ve done alpine altitudes; it’s a thrilling venture. 

Is Everest Base Camp Trip cut out for you?

If you know you have the physical fitness, this is an arduous grade trek (level 5) as you walk to Base Camp and ascend Kalapaththar at over 5000m. This is where we get the best close-up views of the highest mountains in the world. Please get involved in some good physical activity at least 3 months prior to your EBC venture.
 
We experience 12 days point-to-point walking with full porterage throughout - you need only carry your daypack. You should have some previous trekking experience if you do not partake in regular exercise or hill while hillwalking you'd do some physical preparation before you begin this trip. The trail crosses approximately seven modern suspension bridges (twice), all of which have mesh sides but some are pretty long and high and anyone with a strong fear of heights or vertigo may feel a bit heady. The maximum altitude on this trek is 5,545m and the average is near 4000m. We give you enough time for acclimatization, but altitude is a factor here and must be considered – this is why we ask our clients to ensure good physical fitness if not much previous trekking has been done above 4000m.
 
Walking hours stated within the itinerary are given as approximates only. Timings stated exclude lunch stops and will vary depending on the pace of your group. We encourage our guests to walk at a comfortable pace suitable to the body.   

Trip Factors: 

Trip length: 17 Days
Grade: Moderate/Challenging Adventure Trek…involving legendary trails that bring you upfront with the king of all peaks…Mt. Everest. Challenging in some areas
Trek duration: 12 days on trails that begin at the feet of Everest…but take you up pretty close to the famous climbing peaks for some breathtaking close-up views of Everest and some nearby famous peaks…
Starts in: Kathmandu
Ends in: Kathmandu
Trek type: TH
Accommodation: Hotel and teahouse lodges 
Meals: healthy meals provided on the trails
Transportation: Private car or a tourist coach depending on the number of people
Maximum altitude: 5545m…we summit at Kalapaththar for views that leave you stunned, virtually!

Highlights: Why Everest Base Camp trip will warm your heart

  • Besides the plentiful rugged mountains, you witness everything from serene alpine lakes and glacial plains to milky frothy rivers and valleys covered in pink blossoms, especially in spring.

  • This trek will give you a wonderful experience of friendship for a lifetime and the genuine relationship formed between members of your group will stay with you forever.

  • You will get your first glimpses of the mighty Himalayan range on your flight from Kathmandu to Lukla – the famous airport you would imagine to be in the sky, because it’s one of the highest airports in the world.

  • Explore Namche Bazaar and soak up the Sherpa culture Visit the hilltop monastery at Tengboche

Outline Itinerary of Everest Base Camp Trek 17 Days:

Day 01: Meeting upon arrival at Kathmandu International airport (1,350m/4,428ft) by our representative, transfer to hotel.

Day 02: Sightseeing around Kathmandu valley, overnight at hotel

Day 03: Fly to Lukla (2,860m/9,186ft) and start trek to Phakding (2,651m/8,700ft), overnight at guest house

Day 04: Trek to Namche Bazaar (gateway to Mt. Everest - 3,440m/11,284ft), overnight at guest house

Day 05: Rest at Namche Bazaar for acclimatization, overnight at guest house

Day 06: Trek to Tengboche (3,870m/12,694ft), overnight at guesthouse

Day 07: Trek to Dingboche (4,360m/14,300ft), overnight at guest house

Day 08: Rest at Dingboche (day hike to Chhukung), overnight at guest house

Day 09: Trek to Lobuche (4,940 m/16,207ft), overnight at a guest house

Day 10: Trek to Everest Base Camp (5,364m/17,594ft) and back to Gorakshep (5,170m/16,961ft), overnight at a guest house

Day 11: Trek to Kalapaththar (5,545m/18,192ft) and back to Lobuche (4,940 m/16,207ft), overnight at a guest house

Day 12: Trek to Tengboche  (3,870m/12,694ft), overnight at guest house

Day 13: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,280ft), overnight at a guest house

Day 14: Trek to Lukla (2,860m/9,186ft), overnight at a guest house

Day 15: Fly back to Kathmandu, transfer to hotel

Day 16: Free day at Kathmandu, overnight at hotel

Day 17: Transfer to airport, departure on your own destination

Useful information and guidance relevant to EBC Trek:

Everest Base Camp Trek Difficulty levels

TREKKING AT HIGH ALTITUDES (over 3500m) 
 
This trip includes strenuous trekking at altitudes of over 3500m. For us altitude is a very serious issue, a result that has kept our records clean making us one of the best adventure operators in Nepal for over 30 years of operating treks in the region. Our trekking guests must be in great health and have high fitness levels to attempt this trip, as well as be committed to train to ensure you are suitably physically prepared for the tough challenges that go above 4500m.
 
Altitude sickness is a risk for anyone, including on the Annapurna, Langtang and Everest Base Camp treks. Please make sure you familiarise yourself with signs and symptoms before you depart and monitor your own health during your trek, without letting it worry you.
 
We advise all our guests to undergo a thorough medical with your personal physician before you embark on this trip.

Participating in a group trip

When you travel with a group you will find much camaraderie and all the fun and also there’s bound to be some of the frustrations of traveling in a group. Your groupmates will probably come from all corners of the world and you will come across a range of age groups too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travelers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure you’re on time without keeping the rest of the group waiting. Experience has taught us often that the very best trips we operate are those where the chemistry within the group work well - this simply requires a ‘give a little take a little’ attitude effort on your part. For privacy reasons, we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travelers booked on your trip prior to departure.

TRAVELLERS who prefer going SOLO: 

Our group trips are generally planned for shared accommodation and don't involve single supplements. Single travelers share with people of the same gender in accommodation ranging from twin to multi-share. Some of our itineraries have accommodation booked on a mixed gender share basis [for couples or trekkers known to each other prior to the trip]. On a selection of our trips, you have the option to pay a single supplement to ensure that you have your own accommodation (where available). Please note that this only applies to accommodation during the trek - pre-trip and post-trip accommodation will be booked on a single room basis at your hotel in Kathmandu. We also have arrangements for guests who wish to trek completely solo out of the group.

Travel Insurance

When booking with Unique Adventure International, it’s a condition upon joining any of our trips where all clients must be insured for comprehensive expenses that might incur due to medical issues or accidents (this includes air ambulance, helicopter rescue, and treatment costs). Please note that we don't arrange or sell insurance because such a system is not allowed in our country.

Our Cost versus the Experience

At Unique Adventure International, we always go the mile to ensure our trekking guests get the best experiences of the trip with maximum comfort and safety on a ratio that goes beyond the cost that we charge for the trip. We provide a ‘no frills’ price with breakdowns to make sure our clients are getting the best for a cost that goes beyond all expectations.

Accommodations

Your twelve nights on the trek are spent in lodges (teahouses) and the three nights in Kathmandu are in a comfortable hotel. In Kathmandu, we usually stay at the Hotel Yambu, a 3-star hotel located within walking distance of the Thamel district. All rooms have en suite facilities and there is a restaurant, a bar and an outdoor courtyard. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in the hotel lobby and Wi-Fi throughout. A Unique Adventure International representative will usually be available daily in the mornings and evenings.
 
The teahouses we use are basic but adequate and cozy; please be realistic about what to expect in the mountains. The hub of the teahouse is the dining room, usually decorated with colourful traditional rugs, sometimes with a stove or heater (some lodges charge a fee to put the heater on!). Most teahouses sell snacks and other essentials such as tissues, soap and toilet paper. Almost all lodges have electricity but it is not wholly reliable and lighting may not be bright enough to read by – a torch is essential. Electrical charging facilities are generally available only in the dining room (charged at approx. Rs 150 - 350 per hour per device). Many of the lodges use solar power so sometimes there is not enough electricity for charging. Many lodges have Wi-Fi these days – in some areas it works well but in others, it is slow and unreliable.
 
We book twin-share bedrooms throughout this trek. Beds with foam mattresses, bedsheets and a pillow are provided. Bedrooms are unheated and can get cold at night, especially if you’re doing a trek in December; so you will need to bring or hire a sleeping bag.
 
Most lodges have only one or two basic toilets and sometimes these are located outside the main lodge building. Toilets are usually Asian ’squat’ style; although many lodges have now installed ‘western style’ seated ones. Toilet paper is not provided so you should bring your own or buy it locally (please dispose of it in the bin provided – do not put it in the bowl). If there is no flush handle, there should be a container of water to pour down – if it is empty (or frozen) please either refill it or ask the lodge to.
 
Some lodges now have hot 'showers' (charged at approx. Rs 250 - 500 per shower). Sometimes a hot shower is simply a bucket of hot water and not a showerhead. Standards of cleanliness vary especially in the peak trekking season and in winter when the water freezes at night. Please report any problems to your leader or the lodge and be wary in your personal hygiene regime – use soap or hand sanitizer gel before and after toilet breaks, snacks, and mealtimes.
 
As a general rule, the higher the altitude you go to, the more basic the lodges and the more expensive food and services become. We reckon this is what adventure is all about!

Your meals

Breakfast is included throughout the trip. In the teahouses, breakfast will generally comprise a choice of bread (a slice of toast, chapatti, or Tibetan bread), a choice of egg (boiled, fried or omelet), and a choice between either muesli or porridge each day. Hot tea/coffee will also be served. On specific days, there will not be a choice for breakfast and either a trekkers breakfast (egg, hash brown, baked beans, and toast) or a pancake with jam/honey will be served - these options are not available in all teahouses and so we have only included them in locations where they can be guaranteed.
 
Lunch will be taken at a teahouse en route - sometimes one of your guides will go ahead with the group's order to make it more expedient. Dinner will be in the same teahouse that you sleep at (this is custom in Nepal as teahouses base their room rate on it).
 
Although most lodges have almost the same menus, they are reasonably extensive and offer a varied selection, ranging from traditional Nepalese DhalBhat to pizza and apple pie. Dhal bhat is the staple diet in Nepal and comes in many different forms but generally comprises some curried lentil dhal and meat or vegetables, some rice, and a pickle/chutney. Another popular snack is momos; a type of Nepalese dumpling, fried or steamed, filled with meat or vegetables.
 
Although meat is available in the teahouses, we advise against eating it on EBC trek. The meat has often been carried in the heat from lower altitudes for several days before reaching the lodges and can cause stomach upsets or illness. Germs can also be spread by handling dirty money - we recommend that you use a hand sanitizer always.  
 
If you have a gluten-free diet, then we strongly recommend you bring some extra food and snacks with you to supplement the food on trek as there will be little variety available for you, particularly for breakfast. Even many of the soups are powdered and contain gluten. Gluten-free breakfast options will be limited to vegetable fried rice and a choice of egg, and on specific days only, a trekker’s breakfast (without the toast / with an extra egg) will be served. Breakfast options for vegans will be limited to a choice of muesli/porridge with water each day, and on specific days only, a trekkers breakfast (without the egg), or vegetable fried rice will be served. If you are lactose intolerant as opposed to vegan then the same will apply although you will also have a choice of egg each day. If you buy imported food and drink whilst on the trek you will spend more than the suggested amount. 

ALCOHOL & CAFFEINE: 

Alcohol and trekking don't really mix. We highly recommend that you limit your alcohol consumption in Kathmandu prior to your trip. Celebrate your success after your trek. Both alcohol and caffeine increase dehydration. Limit your intake of both when hiking at high altitudes. You enjoy your trek more without these liquids.

Trek leader/guides and other staff

The most noteworthy thing that makes this trek pleasurable and memorable is the skilled, experienced, polite and helpful leader(s) and the crew members tasked with the responsibility of operating trips on the mountains smoothly without any glitches. Your trips will be led by the best and most seasoned leaders. All of Unique Adventure International trekking leaders are carefully selected on the basis of their local experience, team skills and personal abilities. With the focus on helping local communities, Unique Adventure International only employs local personnel with adequate knowledge about culture, ecosystem, flora, fauna, geography, and history of their birthplace region(s). Our trek and expedition leaders have undertaken the following orientations:
  • Intensive Wilderness First Aid
  • Trekking Guide Training [Government recognized]
  • Eco Trekking Workshop and Adventure Meet
  • English Language
  • Conservation and Biodiversity
  • Rock climbing, Ice Climbing and Mountaineering (for expedition leaders)
  • To meet Unique Adventure’s mountain crew, check out the Guide Profile Page.

Care for Porters and Staff

We ensure that all the porters and other staffs going into high altitude conditions are provided with adequate clothing and equipments. We are one of the first trekking outfits to supply high-altitude porters with crampons. We run the trek according to the guidelines of the International Porters Protection Group (IPPG - www.ippg.net).

Protecting the Environment

Our Responsible Travel Policy is a platform in our commitment to preserving the environment, and leaving it as natural as it is. We firmly believe in supporting local communities, protecting the helpless and giving back to the villages we visit on the trails. All our trip leaders, suppliers and staff are familiar with these values, and are very essential to our delivering sustainable, experience-rich journeys.
 
The Everest Region [also known as the ‘Khumbu’’] is extraordinarily beautiful, but just as fragile. Future generations are entitled to enjoying our well balanced ecosystems as much as we do. As a result, we believe that the tourism sector is obliged to protect and preserve the fragile mountain environment in every possible way. 
 
Unique Adventure International encourages a ‘no nonsense’ policy on the natural environment and the traditional communities that live within its environs. Unique Adventure, a long time seasoned adventure operator therefore, enforces a number of should do/should not do’s when on the trails. Please talk to your trek leader to avoid environmental hazards.
 
This land is your land, this land is our land, love it the best way you can! Take away memories never to be forgotten.

Fitness and Training

most of our adventures are graded from introductory to challenging with options that range from low altitude hikes to high altitude mountain climbs, an area of operations Unique Adventure International has much experience in. Depending on which level of trip you will choose, for a trip like Everest Base Camp, we recommend 30 minutes to an hour of aerobic type exercise, (either cycling or jogging) five times a week for three months prior to your departure. Hill walking above road level with a daypack in variable weather conditions is also a great way to build your stamina and fitness. This must be done rigorously with adequate rest in between exercises. The aim is not to tire yourself out but to keep going at a comfortable pace because this is what you will need to come to terms with when trekking on the mountains in high altitudes.

Suggested exercise plans for trekking trips

To achieve the primary goal you’re probably looking at aerobic exercises – however, your plan can be any form of exercise which raises the heart rate to 60-70% of your max, e.g. running, brisk walking, kayaking, climbing, tennis, football, netball; basically any physical activity that brings out the sweat. If you’re a member of a gym we suggest you take a fitness test to determine your maximum heart rate per minute. Alternatively, the general formula is to subtract your age off 220 to calculate your maximum heart beat per minute when you’re on the go. How do you know you’re there? The simplest options are to use the pulse monitors on the aerobic equipment at the gym or you could buy yourself a heart rate monitor. You can get these from any running shop or try eBay or Amazon. You should be looking to spend anything between $30-$70. In a nutshell, the aim is to be as active as you can get so you’re able to walk 5-8 hours every day in high altitude conditions without feeling the pinch.

Acclimatization 

Everest Base Camp is 5360m above sea-level, getting there is a wonderful but arduous journey. The thin air has less oxygen at such elevations above the tree lines; so the more time your body gets to adjust to the change in oxygen levels when ascending at altitude, the better your chances of realizing your goal for a glitch free trek. 
 
Our treks to Everest Base Camp are between 14 to 25 days and include an extra contingency day between Lukla and the ascending of Kalapathar at 5545m. 
 
This extra day gives your body a better chance to acclimatize and prepare you for the big climb. Acclimatizing well will maximise your chances of successfully completing your trek and your objectives.

Vaccinations and your Health

There are no mandatory vaccination requirements. Recommended vaccinations are: Polio, Tetanus, Diphtheria, Typhoid, Hepatitis A.
 
Malaria is not much of a risk anymore throughout Nepal and anti-malarial tablets are not usually advised although may be considered for certain higher risk groups; you may wish to consult your personal physician or travel health clinic for further advice. The risk is highest in the low lying southern ‘terai’ districts bordering India. A yellow fever certificate is only required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission or for travellers having transited for more than 12 hours through a country with risk of transmission.
 
Nonetheless, Dengue fever is a known risk in Nepal. It is a tropical viral disease spread by daytime biting mosquitoes. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available for Dengue, and therefore the best form of prevention is to avoid being bitten. As of August 2019, there has been a recent outbreak of Dengue fever in southeast Nepal and we therefore recommend you take extra precautions to avoid mosquito bites (such as wearing full length trousers, long sleeves and applying insect repellent during the day as well as at dawn and dusk).
 
Much of our trips go to high altitudes where there is a risk of being affected by Acute Mountain Sickness. Our itineraries are well planned to ensure everyone acclimatises well at these altitudes, but its important to be aware that you can still be affected. Please get familiar with the symptoms by reading about AMS prior to your trip. Our guides will be at hand to help you and tell you what to do in the event you experience any symptoms. But don’t let this worry you in anyway; instead prepare yourself physically by staying fit before your trip. 
 
Travel health can often be something people forget about before leaving the home country, but a little preparation and knowledge can go a long way to help you stay fit and healthy while abroad.
 
The above information provided above can change at short notice. To be honest; we are not qualified to answer all of your questions about travel health because when you’re on the trip itself, not all trekkers may have the same physical conditions. Circumstances may vary from one person to the other. We strongly suggest you contact your Medical Professional or a Travel Health Clinic at least 8 weeks prior to departure for the latest information. Please note: vaccinations that are routinely recommended to residents of the UK, North America or Australasia are not considered to form part of any travel health advice, and you should ensure that you are up to date with what’s necessary and what’s not for a hassle free trip.

Your Pack List

What you need to pack depends on when you plan to travel. Generally speaking, we recommend you pack as lightly as possible and make sure that you are able to carry and lift your own luggage, and walk with it for short distances. The items you will need to carry are your underwear, toothbrush and other items you always need to pack for travel. Below are some items that you specifically need for this trip. Unique Adventure International provides you an individual duffel bag to carry your trekking gear. The weight limit per person is 10kg each. Porters carry two bags each as well as their own backpack. Porters’ weight limit is 25kg each.
 
Please keep the weight and bulk of your trek bag to a minimum by bringing clothes made from lightweight material. Don't pack too much clothing; one or two changes will be all you need. However, as the weather conditions in the Himalayas are often unpredictable, be prepared for all eventualities, be it rain, unseasonable cold or heat. For the trek all of your gear should be packed into plastic bags to protect it from the weather - dry clothes are essential for your comfort. Using wet or damp clothes at heights is never a good idea, even if its hot in temperatures. 
 
Your trek leader will assist you in packing your kitbag and can advise what to bring and what can be left behind in Kathmandu.
 
Your Day pack - Your day pack must have the capacity for the items you will be carrying on a day's walk: rain jacket, spare trousers, warm clothing, water bottles, camera equipment, washing items and other personal effects. A hip/waist strap provides additional comfort. You should consider day packs of at least a 30 to 40 litre capacity. You only need to carry your own day pack when trekking each day. 

ESSENTIAL TREKKING EQUIPMENT

  • Trekking boots (broken in)
  • Gaiters (for winter departures Dec-Feb only - can be hired in Kathmandu if required)
  • Waterproof 3/4 season jacket and trousers (can be hired/purchased in Kathmandu if required)
  • Camp footwear (i.e. sneakers, thongs or booties)
  • Several pairs of high quality hiking socks
  • T-Shirts - highly recommended are synthetic t-shirt styles that absorb away moisture
  • Thermal underwear/layers
  • Down jacket (can be hired/purchased in Kathmandu if required, available with Unique Adventure)
  • Warm mid layers (fleece/micro fibre)
  • Trousers - lightweight, loose fitting, trekking trousers (can be purchased in Kathmandu)
  • Shorts or skirt for summer
  • Tracksuit or fleece pants for evenings when it turns chilly
  • Sleeveless fleece and extra layers for winter departures (Dec-Feb)
  • Warm hat & sun hat 
  • Scarf/neck warmer
  • Gloves and mitts - waterproof and warm
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Head torch (with spare batteries)
  • Sunscreen and lip balm
  • Light weight towel or sarong
  • Personal first aid kit
  • Biodegradable wet wipes/toilet paper
  • Hand sanitizer gel
  • Trail mix/nuts/muesli bars (bring zip lock bags from home)

OPTIONAL GEAR [useful on the trails]

  • Pocket knife
  • Insect repellent
  • Ear plugs
  • Walking poles
  • Extra zip lock bags
  • Hot water bottle (winter months)

SLEEPING BAG & INNER SHEET

A good quality, warm sleeping bag is essential while trekking as only blankets are provided at tea houses. Please note that sleeping bags are readily available to buy or hire in both Kathmandu and in Namche at very reasonable rates. Your group leader can assist you in hiring gear after your meeting. If you plan to hire a sleeping bag we recommend that you bring an inner sleep sheet, which adds another layer of warmth. In winter a thermal inner sleep sheet is warmer. If you bring your own sleeping bag, please think about the time of year of your trek. We recommend a four season bag with a rating to around -10c. In winter (Dec-Feb) a five seasons bag is recommended.

WATER BOTTLES

It is essential to bring 2 x 1lt water bottles to refill along the way. While trekking, boiled or safe drinking water is available to purchase in tea houses. However, you should also carry a water purification method. Options include: 
  • Purification tablets available from camping stores or pharmacies e.g. Micropur.
  • 2% tincture of iodine, available from pharmacies, used at 4 drops per litre of water and left for at least 20 minutes - longer in very cold weather.

Medical [this is important]

  • Small, personal first-aid kit. (Simple and light)
  • Aspirin, first-aid tape, and plasters (Band-Aids) 
  • 1 skin-blister repair kit
  • Anti-diarrhea pills 
  • Anti-headache pills
  • Cough and/or cold medicine
  • Anti-altitude sickness pills: Diamox or Acetazolamide
  • Stomach antibiotic: Ciprofloxacin, etc. Do not bring sleeping pills as they are respiratory depressants.
  • Water purification tablets or the water filter
  • 1 set of earplugs
  • Extra pair of prescription glasses, contact lens supplies

CASH: 

Before departing on your trek, make sure you have enough Nepalese currency to purchase meals and drinks during the trek – it’s always good to carry them in the smaller denominations where possible, there are no ATM's on the mountains and it can be harder to change an NPR1000 note.

Tipping [an expectation on such risky arduous trips]

Tipping is very much part of the culture in Nepal and although entirely at your discretion, it is usually expected. Often people would like to tip in recognition of good service but are unsure how much would be appropriate in a foreign country - for this reason, we have listed guideline amounts below (these are intended as a guideline only and you may see fit to give more or less depending on the service that you have received).
 
For the tipping of your trek staff and your tour leader, we suggest passing an envelope for each staff member around the group so that everyone can put in what they feel comfortable with anonymously. 
 
The following are guideline amounts received by each staff member from the group as a whole... 
  • Tour Leader: Rs 30,000 - 35,000 (usually tipped on the last night in Kathmandu)
  • Your trekking crew (tips are usually given on the last evening of the trek in Lukla):
  • Head Trekking Guide and Assistant Guides: Rs 20,000 - 25,000 for each guide
  • Trek Porters/yak men: Rs 10,000 for each porter or yak man

Acute Mountain Sickness

When we ascend above 2500 meters our bodies have to acclimatize to the decreasing amount of the oxygen available. So, to allow our bodies to adjust we have designed our treks in ways that help you ascend slowly, allowing acclimatization to occur when you go above the tree lines where the air is thinner. However, during the acclimatization process, you may experience some of the following symptoms.
  • Headache
  • Tiredness
  • Disturbed sleep patterns
  • Loss of appetite/nausea
  • Shortness of breath
  • Cough
  • Palpitation
  • Swelling of the hands and face

But if you feel such symptoms don’t let it worry because it’s normal. Individuals acclimatize at different rates. Some may experience symptoms, some may not. Your best strategy is to take your time and drink plenty of water. These symptoms may not indicate the onset of A.M.S. and if you experience them it does not necessarily mean that you should not continue. All our group leaders have extensive first aid training and we urge you to communicate with the group leader at all times should you believe you have any symptoms in order that we can effectively monitor your symptoms as you go higher. The only cure for Acute Mountain Sickness is to descend. Please note, that your group leader has ultimate responsibility and may ask you to descend if symptoms persist. 

For even more details, we suggest you download our Everest Base Camp 17 day’s essential information guide or get in touch with our experts Khum Subedi or Chris Chhetri. They’ll set you up for a journey filled with lifetime memories never to be forgotten…

Cell numbers:

Khum Subedi: +977 9851073958 (24/7, Viber/Watsapp)
Chris Chhetri: +977 9851076791  (24/7, Viber/Watsapp)

Check out More:

<a href="https://www.uniquetreks.com/everest-base-camp-trek"> Cheap Everest Base Camp Trek</a>

 

<a href="https://www.uniquetreks.com/everest-base-camp-trek"> Cheap Everest Trek</a>

 

<a href="https://www.uniquetreks.com/everest-base-camp-trek"> Everest Base Camp Trek Cost</a>

 

<a href="https://www.uniquetreks.com/everest-base-camp-trek"> Everest Base Camp Trek itinerary</a>

 

<a href="https://www.uniquetreks.com/everest-base-camp-trek"> Everest Base Camp Trek Difficulty </a>

 

<a href="https://www.uniquetreks.com/everest-base-camp-trek"> Trekking to Everest Base Camp </a>

 

<a href="https://www.uniquetreks.com/everest-base-camp-trek"> Everest Base Camp Trek </a>

 

Note

We would like you to know that although we try to follow the program given above, at times local trails or weather conditions may compel us to make slight changes if necessary. The itinerary may also vary slightly subject to our trekkers' acclimatization rates. This odyssey goes into untamed territory above the timberline, so we seek to request maximum flexibility if and when required for the safety of your trip and your life. Thank you so much for your understanding. We value your precious life.

Saturday, February 8, 2020

Trekking Everest Base Camp

Trekking Everest Base Camp - 14 Days

Our Everest Base Camp Trekking itinerary is a direct approach to the foot of the world's highest mountain – Mt. Everest. Trekking Everest Base Camp is one of the most thrilling experiences for mountain lovers.

However, what makes this trek more attractive are the trails used by famous climbers in the years gone by.

Cosy teahouse lodges keep you warm

This is a teahouse lodge trek that begins from Lukla, one of the highest airstrips in the world. Furthermore, the famous towering peaks and the friendly hospitality of the locals (the Sherpa); make the Everest region [local name ‘Khumbu’] one of the hottest adventure destinations on the planet.

The two week’s trip to Trekking Everest Base Camp is worth its weight in gold for lovers of the Himalayan wilderness. The lodges are pretty basic with clean linen and provide good hot meals; nevertheless, they are cosy enough to shelter us from the elements outside.   

Our Everest Base Camp itinerary provides ample time for important acclimatization. Furthermore, frequent acclimatising gives more chances to enjoy successful treks in the Everest region. A wonderfully scenic flight to one of the world’s highest airstrips – Lukla, opens to an alpine world of exceptional beauty. The air is so pure and colourful prayer flags flutter from rooftops, welcoming you to this sublime region.

Above all, a sortie also includes a walk to Everest Base Camp where expeditions prepare to climb the world's highest peak. Perhaps, this is why most hikers consider this the perfect trip for a first visit to Nepal and the Himalayas.

Is trekking to Everest Base Camp suitable for you?

Everest Base Camp Trek would be ideal for first timers on an adventure sortie to Nepal. The trails are well marked and used by yaks and the local people; the trails are also some of the world’s most famous. In addition, the trek is based in the Everest region, also known as the ‘Khumbu’ and is globally known for its high peaks. Despite the high elevations, this area has great teahouse lodges and eateries supplying organic food. However, its important to bear in mind that hikes hereabouts exceed 3000m and goes above the tree lines and this can pose challenges even for those physically prepared for such a venture.

Nevertheless, our trekking itinerary for Everest Base Camp is well planned and gives you 2 whole days to acclimatize with slower days to Dingboche and Lobuche. We have organized your trip in a way that sets you up ultimately for the big climbs to Everest Base Camp and Kalapathar at 5545m for some stunning sunrise views that will leave you breathless, virtually.

To truly enjoy this trip, you should be pretty habituated to walking for 4-6 hours each day for several days on the go while some days will be relatively longer. We encourage you to walk at a pace that suits you without any rush whatsoever. This is a key aspect to enjoying such trips in the planet’s most popular region. You ought to be physically fit and an active walker to get the best of this epic venture to the south side of the mighty Everest.

Wednesday, January 29, 2020

Complete guide to Everest Base Camp Trek

Trekking Everest Base Camp - 14 Days

Our Everest Base Camp trekking itinerary is a direct approach to the foot of the world's highest mountain – Mt. Everest. Trekking Everest Base Camp is one of the most thrilling experiences for mountain lovers. 
However, what makes this trek more attractive are the trails used by famous climbers in the years gone by. 

Cosy teahouse lodges keep you warm

This is a teahouse lodge trek that begins from Lukla, one of the highest airstrips in the world. Furthermore, the famous towering peaks and the friendly hospitality of the locals (the Sherpa); make the Everest region [local name ‘Khumbu’] one of the hottest adventure destinations on the planet. The two week’s trip to Everest Base Camp is worth its weight in gold for lovers of the Himalayan wilderness. The lodges are pretty basic with clean linen and provide good hot meals; nevertheless, they are cosy enough to shelter us from the elements outside.      
Our Everest Base Camp itinerary provides ample time for important acclimatization. Furthermore, frequent acclimatising gives more chances to enjoy successful treks in the Everest region. A wonderfully scenic flight to one of the world’s highest airstrips – Lukla, opens to an alpine world of exceptional beauty. The air is so pure and colourful prayer flags flutter from rooftops, welcoming you to this sublime region. The well marked trail takes us through the well-known villages of Namche and Dingboche as well as Tengboche monastery; which reflects the true Sherpa culture. In addition, we make an ascent to Kala Pathar at (5545m). This is the point we get to view the famous climbing routes to the legendary summit of Mount Everest. 
Above all, a sortie also includes a walk to Everest Base Camp where expeditions prepare to climb the world's highest peak. Perhaps, this is why most hikers consider this the perfect trip for a first visit to Nepal and the Himalayas.

Key Highlights:

  • Ascend to Everest Base Camp and Kalapathar with our experienced team of guides and porters. Enjoy breathtaking close-up views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse and other famous peaks.
  • Acclimatisation well planned to keep you safe at your pace above the timberlines.
  • Great opportunities to interact with the local people so you get to learn about the interesting culture, lifestyle and traditions in this region.
  • We visit the historicalTengboche Monastery that sits beneath the shadow of Ama Dablam. The views from here are classic in a world of its own.  

Trip Factors: 

Trip Duration: 14 Days
Grade: A moderate challenging journey…but then who ever said hiking through some of the most beautiful wilderness in the world would be easy? This trip would be ideal for greenhorns and first time visitors to Nepal.
Activity: Adventure - trekking
Starts in: Kathmandu
Ends in: Kathmandu
Trek Type: TH [teahouse] with camping where necessary
Accommodation: Hotel, camping or lodge (tea house)
Meals: All meals provided on the trail
Transportation: Flights and private vehicles
Maximum Altitude: 5545m

Is this trek for you?

Trekking Everest Base Camp would be ideal for first timers on an adventure sortie to Nepal. The trails are well marked and used by yaks and the local people; the trails are also some of the world’s most famous. In addition, the trek is based in the Everest region, also known as the ‘Khumbu’ and is globally known for its high peaks. Despite the high elevations, this area has great teahouse lodges and eateries supplying organic food. However, its important to bear in mind that hikes hereabouts exceed 3000m and goes above the tree lines and this can pose challenges even for those physically prepared for such a venture.
Nevertheless, our trekking itinerary for Everst Base Camp is well planned and gives you 2 whole days to acclimatize with slower days to Dingboche and Lobuche. We have organized your trip in a way that sets you up ultimately for the big climbs to Everest Base Camp and Kalapathar at 5545m for some stunning sunrise views that will leave you breathless, virtually. To truly enjoy this trip, you should be pretty habituated to walking for 4-6 hours each day for several days on the go while some days will be relatively longer. We encourage you to walk at a pace that suits you without any rush whatsoever. This is a key aspect to enjoying such trips in the planet’s most popular region. You ought to be physically fit and an active walker to get the best of this epic venture to the south side of the mighty Everest.

Note

All conditions stated in the itinerary are for the visitors who prefer full package programme. At the same time, we also serve you based on your choice. The selection of itineraries and the staff depends on your choice and financial procurement. We have options for any partial visit as per your requirement regarding your interest and financial condition.