Ama-dablam-stupa

Everest Base Camp & Ama Dablam Trek

  • duration 15 days
  • from usd 1,200
  • difficulty Challenging
  • best season Sep-Dec | Mar-May
  • max altitude From 4,600 feet at Kathmandu to 18,519 feet at Kala Patthar

trip overview

Beginning from Lukla, embark on an extraordinary journey through traditional Sherpa villages that leads to both the legendary Everest Base Camp and spectacular viewpoints of the magnificent Ama Dablam peak. This remarkable trek offers the rare opportunity to stand at the foot of the world’s highest mountain while being constantly accompanied by views of one of the most beautiful peaks in the Himalayas.

The path to Everest Base Camp winds through dramatic gorges, pristine valleys, rushing rivers, ancient rhododendron forests, and vibrant mountain villages, but what sets this trek apart is the continuous presence of Ama Dablam’s iconic pyramid silhouette dominating the skyline. Known as the “Matterhorn of the Himalayas,” Ama Dablam serves as your constant companion throughout this challenging high-altitude adventure. While you won’t attempt to scale either peak, you’ll experience the raw power and beauty of both mountains from multiple vantage points, creating an unparalleled Himalayan experience that combines achievement with aesthetic wonder.

Key highlights

  • Standing at Everest Base Camp (5,364m) at the foot of the world’s highest mountain

  • Panoramic sunrise views from Kala Patthar (5,545m/18,519 feet) with Ama Dablam in the foreground

  • Spectacular viewpoints of Ama Dablam’s dramatic pyramid peak, the “Matterhorn of the Himalayas”

  • Visiting the sacred Tengboche Monastery, spiritual heart of the Khumbu region

  • Exploring authentic Sherpa villages and experiencing rich mountain culture

  • Trekking through UNESCO World Heritage Sagarmatha National Park

Detailed itinerary

  • day 01
    Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,593ft)

    Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. Take time to rest and adjust to the time zone. In the evening, we’ll hold a comprehensive pre-trip meeting where we’ll review your trek itinerary, discuss gear requirements, and answer any questions you may have about your upcoming adventure to both Everest Base Camp and Ama Dablam Base Camp.

    Points of Interest:

    • Thamel district (shopping and restaurants)

    • Durbar Square (if time permits)

    • Local markets and temples

    • Accommodation: Three star hotel in Kathmandu (twin-sharing basis)
  • day 02
    Fly to Lukla (9,334ft) from Kathmandu or drive to Manthali – 5 to 6 hours for a 20 minutes flight to Lukla. Trek to Phakding (8,562ft)

    Your adventure begins with an early morning flight to Lukla’s Tenzing-Hillary Airport, famous for its short runway and spectacular mountain views. After landing in Lukla, we’ll have a brief rest and meet our porters before beginning our trek. The trail to Phakding is primarily downhill, following the Dudh Koshi River valley through pine forests and traditional Sherpa villages.

    Note: During peak seasons (March-May and October-November), flights operate from Manthali Airport, requiring a 2:30 AM departure and 5-6 hour drive from Kathmandu.

    Flight: 30 minutes (Kathmandu to Lukla) or 20 minutes (Manthali to Lukla) | Trek Distance: 8km (5 miles) | Trek Duration: 3-4 hours | Difficulty Level: Easy (gentle downhill with some flat sections)

    Points of Interest:

    • Tenzing-Hillary Airport

    • Dudh Koshi River valley

    • Buddhist prayer wheels and mani stones

    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
    • Meal: Breakfast
  • day 03
    Trek to Namche Bazaar (11,290ft)

    Today features one of the most significant elevation gains of the trek. After breakfast, we’ll follow the Dudh Koshi River, crossing several suspension bridges including the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge. At Monjo village, we’ll enter Sagarmatha National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site) where permits will be checked. The trail climbs steeply after the park entrance. The final two hours involve a challenging uphill climb to reach Namche Bazaar, the gateway to the high Himalayas and the commercial hub of the Khumbu region.

    Trek Distance: 10-12km (6-7.5 miles) | Trek Duration: 5-7 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging (significant uphill sections)

    Points of Interest:

    • Hillary Suspension Bridge

    • Sagarmatha National Park entrance

    • First viewpoint of Mt. Everest (weather permitting)

    • Namche Bazaar market

    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • day 04
    Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,290ft)

    This is an altitude acclimatization rest day. Following the mountaineering principle of “climb high, sleep low,” today we’ll take an acclimatization hike to higher elevation while returning to Namche to sleep. This helps your body adapt to the altitude and reduces the risk of altitude sickness. The recommended hike is to the Everest View Hotel, offering spectacular views of Mt. Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and other peaks.

    Hike Distance: 4km (2.5 miles) round trip | Hike Duration: 3-4 hours round trip | Difficulty Level: Moderate

    Points of Interest:

    • Everest View Hotel

    • Khumjung village with its monastery

    • Hillary School

    • Sherpa Culture Museum and Sagarmatha National Park Visitor Center

    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • day 05
    Trek to Tengboche (3,860m/12,660ft)

    After breakfast, we’ll begin with a relatively flat trail along the hillside with magnificent views of Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. The trail then descends to Phunki Tenga (3,250m/10,663ft), where we’ll stop for lunch near the Dudh Koshi River. After lunch, we face a challenging 2-hour steep uphill climb through pine forests to reach Tengboche, home to the most famous monastery in the Khumbu region. Located at the confluence of the Imja River and the Dudh Koshi River, Tengboche is home to the largest monastery in the region.

    Trek Distance: 10km (6.2 miles) | Trek Duration: 5-6 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate (initial descent followed by steep ascent)

    Points of Interest:

    • Tengboche Monastery (established in 1916)

    • Spectacular mountain panorama

    • Evening prayer ceremony at the monastery (approximately 3:00 PM in winter, 4:00 PM in summer)

    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • day 06
    Trek to Pangboche (3,930m/12,894ft) and Day Trip to Ama Dablam Base Camp (4,570m/14,993ft)

    Leaving Tengboche, we descend through rhododendron forests to cross the Imja Khola river and reach Pangboche, which houses the oldest monastery in the region and offers excellent views of Ama Dablam. After settling in Pangboche and having lunch, we’ll embark on our special day trip to Ama Dablam Base Camp. The trail ascends through rocky terrain and glacial moraines with Ama Dablam towering majestically above you. You will find mountaineers camping here before their ascent of Ama Dablam, the mountain shaped like a pendant. Experience the intimate setting of this base camp, much smaller and more personal than Everest Base Camp, where climbers prepare for one of the world’s most technical and beautiful climbs.

    Trek Distance: 8km (5 miles) to Pangboche + 6km (3.7 miles) round trip to Ama Dablam BC | Trek Duration: 3-4 hours to Pangboche + 4-5 hours round trip to Ama Dablam BC | Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging

    Points of Interest:

    • Upper Pangboche Monastery

    • Spectacular views of Ama Dablam (6,856m/22,493ft)

    • Ama Dablam Base Camp and mountaineering expeditions

    • Technical climbing route observation

    • Glacier formations and seracs

    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • day 07
    Trek to Dingboche (4,410m/14,470ft)

    From Pangboche, the trail follows the Imja Valley with stunning views of Lhotse, Island Peak, and Ama Dablam. The landscape begins to change as we enter a more arid region above the tree line. The final stretch to Dingboche involves a gradual climb through pastures. This hill station is cold and arid and you might feel the first real signs of fatigue in your journey. Dingboche is located at the bank of the Imja River and is known for stone walls that run throughout and beyond the village.

    Trek Distance: 8km (5 miles) | Trek Duration: 3-4 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate

    Points of Interest:

    • First views of Island Peak (6,189m/20,305ft)

    • Traditional Sherpa agricultural fields

    • Stone-walled fields characteristic of Dingboche

    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • day 08
    Acclimatization Day in Dingboche (4,410m/14,470ft)

    Today is another crucial acclimatization day. After breakfast, we recommend a hike to Nangkartshang Peak, a viewpoint above Dingboche. The climb is steep but rewarding, offering spectacular views of Makalu (the world’s fifth highest mountain), Lhotse, Chalotse, Tawache, and Ama Dablam. Dingboche is good for a day of sightseeing. It is located at the bank of the Imja River and the monasteries and the stone walls here are prime tourist attractions.

    Hike Distance: 5km (3 miles) round trip | Hike Duration: 3-4 hours round trip | Difficulty Level: Moderate

    Points of Interest:

    • Nangkartshang Peak viewpoint

    • Stone-walled fields of Dingboche

    • Local monastery

    • Views of Island Peak (Imja Tse)

    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • day 09
    Trek to Lobuche (4,940m/16,210ft)

    Today we enter the high alpine zone above 4,500m where vegetation becomes extremely sparse. The trail initially climbs gradually from Dingboche to Dughla/Thukla (4,620m/15,157ft), a small settlement where we’ll stop for lunch. After lunch, we face a steep, challenging climb up the Thukla Pass (4,830m/15,850ft) where we’ll find the moving Everest Memorial site with numerous stone memorials for climbers who have lost their lives on Everest and surrounding peaks. You will hike through rugged snow-covered terrain passing through Thukla village to reach Lobuche at the foot of the Khumbu glacier.

    Trek Distance: 8.5km (5.3 miles) | Trek Duration: 5-6 hours | Difficulty Level: Challenging

    Points of Interest:

    • Thukla Pass/Everest Memorial site

    • First views of Khumbu Glacier

    • Panoramic views of Pumori (7,161m/23,494ft) and surrounding peaks

    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • day 10
    Trek to Gorakshep (5,164m/16,942ft) and Everest Base Camp (5,364m/17,598ft)

    Today is the highlight of our trek! We’ll start early, following the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. The trail undulates over rocky terrain with several short, steep sections. A short three-hour trek will take you to Gorakshep, a village sitting on top of a frozen lake bed. This village will serve us lunch and will be our final stop on our trek to the Everest Base Camp. After a light lunch at Gorakshep, we’ll continue to Everest Base Camp. It’s a two to three hours walk to the base camp from here and you will get to stand on the foot of the tallest peak in the world. Gaze at the Everest as much as you want but you cannot camp here with your trekking permit so we will have to return to Gorakshep before night.

    Trek Distance: Lobuche to Gorakshep: 4.5km (2.8 miles) | Gorakshep to EBC and back: 7km (4.3 miles) round trip

    Trek Duration: Lobuche to Gorakshep: 2-3 hours | Gorakshep to EBC and back: 4-5 hours round trip

    Difficulty Level: Very Challenging

    Points of Interest:

    • Khumbu Glacier and Icefall

    • Everest Base Camp

    • Prayer flags marking the site

    • Views of Nuptse, Pumori, and Khumbutse

    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • day 11
    Hike up to Kala Patthar (5,545m/18,192ft) and Trek to Pheriche (4,371m/14,340ft)

    We’ll wake before dawn for the challenging climb to Kala Patthar, timed to reach the summit for sunrise (weather permitting). We will ascent to Kala Patthar, which lies on the southern ridge of Mount Pumori (23,494 feet). It’s a two-hour uphill expedition that will put to test your mountain-climbing skills. Here you will get the best panoramic view of the Everest along with the Khumbu Glacier and other Himalayan peaks. After returning to Gorakshep for breakfast, we’ll begin our descent, retracing our steps to Lobuche and then taking the trail to Pheriche. It’s all downhill from here and we will descend to Pheriche, a small village full of yaks, and rest for the day.

    Wake-up Time: 4:00-4:30 AM for sunrise hike (recommended)

    Trek Distance: Gorakshep to Kala Patthar: 2km (1.2 miles) round trip | Gorakshep to Pheriche: 13km (8.1 miles)

    Trek Duration: Gorakshep to Kala Patthar: 2-3 hours round trip | Gorakshep to Pheriche: 5-6 hours

    Difficulty Level: Very Challenging (Kala Patthar), then Moderate (descent to Pheriche)

    Points of Interest:

    • Sunrise views from Kala Patthar

    • Himalayan Rescue Association clinic in Pheriche

    • Dramatic change in landscape as you descend

    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • day 12
    Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,290ft)

    Today features a long but rewarding trek as we continue our descent. From Pheriche, we’ll follow the Imja Khola valley down to Pangboche, then to Tengboche. We’ll notice the air becoming richer with oxygen as we descend, and vegetation gradually returning to the landscape. An easy downhill trek through forests, suspension bridges and alongside mountain ridges will get you to Namche Bazaar. Upon reaching here in about six hours, you will feel like you are back to the society after your ordeal with wilderness. It’s a great place to share your experience with fellow trekkers and look back on the feat you just achieved.

    Trek Distance: 15km (9.3 miles) | Trek Duration: 6-7 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate (long distance but mostly downhill)

    Points of Interest:

    • Pangboche (3,930m/12,894ft)

    • Tengboche (3,860m/12,660ft)

    • Phunki Tenga (3,250m/10,663ft)

    • Kyangjuma (3,550m/11,646ft)

    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • day 13
    Trek to Lukla (2,840m/9,334ft)

    Our final day of trekking takes us back to where our journey began. From Namche, we’ll descend steeply to the Dudh Koshi River and cross the Hillary Suspension Bridge. We’ll follow the river, passing through the checkpoints and entrance gates of Sagarmatha National Park at Monjo, then continue through the villages of Jorsale, Phakding, and several other small settlements. It will be a five-hour trek down to Lukla, the place where it all started. Your Everest Base Camp trek ends here and Lukla is famous for hosting your end-of-journey party. You will not have to walk anymore.

    Trek Distance: 18km (11.2 miles) | Trek Duration: 6-7 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate (long distance with varied terrain)

    Points of Interest:

    • Monjo (checkpoint)

    • Jorsale

    • Phakding

    • Cheplung

    • Final uphill climb to Lukla

    • Accommodation: Hotel
  • day 14
    Fly to Kathmandu (1,400m/4,593ft)

    We’ll have an early breakfast and head to the Lukla airport for our return flight to Ramechhap (Manthali) Airport. Morning flights from Lukla are often subject to weather conditions, so be prepared for possible delays. The flight to Ramechhap is shorter than the direct flight to Kathmandu, taking approximately 15-20 minutes, and offers spectacular views of the mountains and foothills.

    Upon landing at Ramechhap, our vehicle will be waiting to transport us to Kathmandu. This 5-6 hour drive follows the Sunkoshi and Tama Koshi river valleys, passing through rural villages, terraced fields, and forested hills. The drive provides a fascinating glimpse into rural Nepali life outside the trekking regions. We’ll make 1-2 stops along the way for refreshments and restroom breaks.

    Upon arrival in Kathmandu, check into your hotel and enjoy a well-deserved hot shower and comfortable bed. The evening is free for last-minute shopping in Thamel, relaxing, or enjoying a farewell dinner with cultural shows.

    Flight Duration: 15-20 minutes (Lukla to Ramechhap/Manthali)

    Drive Duration: 5-6 hours (Ramechhap to Kathmandu)

    Total Travel Time: 6-7 hours

    Note: During peak trekking seasons (March-May and October-November), flights often operate via Ramechhap instead of directly to Kathmandu due to air traffic congestion at Tribhuvan International Airport. This alternative route helps manage the high volume of trekker flights while maintaining schedule reliability.

    Points of Interest:

    • Scenic mountain flight from Lukla

    • Sunkoshi and Tama Koshi river valleys

    • Traditional Nepali villages along the drive

    • Terraced agricultural fields

    • Changing landscapes from mountains to middle hills

    • Dhulikhel viewpoint (if time permits)

    • Accommodation: Three-star hotel in Kathmandu
    • Meal: Breakfast and farewell dinner with cultural shows
  • day 15
    Final Departure

    After breakfast, depending on your flight time, you’ll have some free time for last-minute shopping or relaxation. Our representative will meet you at the hotel and transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight. We will drop you to Tribhuvan International Airport and you will be gone with recollections of your Himalayan journey to keep you busy throughout the flight.

    Airport Transfer: Scheduled according to your flight time (typically 3 hours before international flights)

    Practical Information:

    • Standard hotel check-out time is 12:00 PM

    • Luggage storage available for those with evening flights

    • Late check-out may be arranged (subject to availability and additional cost)

    • Extension options available (Chitwan, Pokhara, Nagarkot)

    • Meal: Breakfast

What's Included

  • Receive you from and drop you to the airport or hotel in our company vehicle
  • Stay at a three-star hotel in Kathmandu on a twin-sharing basis. Breakfast is on us
  • Stay at guesthouses during the trek on a twin-sharing basis
  • Local government-licensed guides
  • Porters (one each for a pair of travellers) and local support staff to help you trek
  • Fees for Sagarmatha National Park entering permit and Trekkers’ Information Management System card
  • Fully paid round-trip tickets for Kathmandu-Lukla flight and back. Ground transportation to/from Manthali if flights operate from there during peak seasons.
  • A duffel bag, company t-shirt and cap as souvenirs from us
  • A traditional Nepali feast with cultural shows as a farewell dinner
  • All tourist fees, government charges and other official expenses throughout the trip

What's Not Included

  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
  • All meals during the trek
  • Additional stay before, during or after the set itinerary
  • Charges at airports or other areas for excess luggage
  • Alcohol, hot or cold drinks, bottled water, and other snacks
  • Phone calls, internet, laundry, additional porters, and other personal expenses
  • Travel insurance. (It is compulsory and covers emergency rescue and evacuation.)
  • International airfare to and from Kathmandu
  • Visa fees for entering Nepal
  • Trekking equipment
  • Tips for guide and porter

Accommodation during the Trip

In Kathmandu:

  • Three-star hotel on twin-sharing basis included in package

  • Breakfast included at Kathmandu hotels

  • Upgrade options available to star hotels and international chain properties (Hyatt, Marriott, Radisson..)

  • Single accommodation readily available in Kathmandu (additional charge)

During the Trek:

  • Standard teahouse/guesthouse accommodation on twin-sharing basis

  • Simple but clean rooms with beds, pillows, and blankets

  • Shared bathroom facilities in most teahouses

  • Common dining areas with heating

  • Limited single room availability during the trek (subject to availability)

  • Better accommodation quality at lower elevations and in Lukla

  • Basic facilities at higher elevations

  • Accommodation quality varies by location

Upgrade Options:

  • Hotel upgrades in Kathmandu available upon request

  • Limited premium accommodation options in Lukla & Namche Bazaar

  • Advance booking recommended for any accommodation upgrades

  • Additional charges apply for all accommodation upgrades

Note: All accommodation arrangements are subject to availability, especially during peak trekking seasons.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How difficult is the Everest Base Camp & Ama Dablam Trek?

    The trek is rated as challenging difficulty, involving up to 8 hours of daily trekking at altitudes up to 5,545 meters. Any reasonably active person with good fitness should be able to manage this trek. The main challenges include:

    • High altitude (reaching up to 5,545m at Kala Patthar)

    • Long daily hiking hours (6-8 hours on average)

    • Cold temperatures, especially at higher elevations

    • Additional day trip to Ama Dablam Base Camp requiring extra endurance

    Previous trekking experience is beneficial but not mandatory. The 15-day itinerary includes proper acclimatization days to help manage the altitude.

  • Why choose this combined Everest Base Camp & Ama Dablam Trek?

    This unique trek offers the best of both worlds:

    • Two iconic base camps: Visit both Everest Base Camp and Ama Dablam Base Camp in one expedition

    • Spectacular mountain views: Continuous views of Ama Dablam, the "Matterhorn of the Himalayas"

    • Cultural immersion: Experience authentic Sherpa villages and Tengboche Monastery

    • Comprehensive package: Accommodation, permits, flights, and more included

    • Proper acclimatization: 15-day schedule with rest days for altitude adjustment

    • Expert local guides: Deep knowledge of both trekking routes

    • Small group experience: More personalized adventure

  • How physically fit do I need to be and how should I prepare?

    ou should be able to hike 6-8 hours daily while carrying a daypack (3-5kg). Prepare with:

    Cardiovascular training: 4-5 times weekly for 3-4 months (hiking, jogging, swimming)

    Strength training: Focus on leg and core strength

    Practice hikes: Complete several 6-8 hour hikes before your trek

    Stair climbing: Excellent preparation for ascents and descents

    Altitude training: If possible, train at elevation

    Consistency is more important than intensity. You don't need to be an athlete, but better fitness means a more enjoyable journey to both base camps.

  • How do I prevent and manage altitude sickness?
    • Follow the proper acclimatization schedule in your itinerary

    • Ascend slowly (no more than 300-500m in sleeping altitude per day)

    • Stay hydrated (3-4 liters of water daily)

    • Avoid alcohol and tobacco

    • Consider Diamox (Acetazolamide) after consulting your doctor

    • Recognize symptoms: headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, loss of appetite

    • Inform your guide immediately if symptoms appear

    • Descend if symptoms worsen

    Our 15-day itinerary includes proper acclimatization days in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche to minimize altitude sickness risk.

  • What permits do I need and how are they arranged?

    Two permits are required:

    1. Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit

    2. Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit

    We handle all permit arrangements as part of our service. You'll just need to provide:

    • Your passport details

    • Two passport-sized photos

    • Your arrival date in Nepal

  • How are the flights to Lukla arranged?

    Round-trip flights to Lukla are included in your package and can operate from two locations:

    From Kathmandu:

    • Flight time is approximately 30-40 minutes

    • Spectacular mountain views during the flight

    • Typically used during off-peak seasons

    From Ramechhap (Manthali):

    • Located approximately 132km (4-5 hours drive) east of Kathmandu

    • Often used during peak trekking seasons (March-May and October-November)

    • Used to reduce congestion at Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport

    • We arrange transportation from Kathmandu to Ramechhap if your flight departs from there

    Important flight information:

    • Flights typically depart early morning (6-9 AM)

    • Weight allowance is 15kg per person (10kg checked + 5kg carry-on)

    • In case of weather delays, we handle rebooking at no extra cost

    • Buffer days are built into our itinerary for potential delays

  • What type of accommodation is provided?

    In Kathmandu:

    • Three-star hotel on a twin-sharing basis

    • Breakfast included

    • Private bathroom facilities

    During the Trek:

    • Guesthouse/teahouse accommodation on a twin-sharing basis

    • Simple but clean rooms with beds, pillows, and blankets

    • Shared bathroom facilities in most teahouses

    • Common dining areas with heating

    Accommodation quality varies by location, with better facilities at lower elevations.

  • What about food during the trek?

    Meals are not included in your package price. Tea-houses along the route offer:

    Breakfast Options:

    • Porridge, muesli, or cornflake

    • Pancakes, Tibetan bread, or chapati

    • Eggs prepared in various ways

    • Tea, coffee, hot chocolate

    Lunch and Dinner Options:

    • Dal Bhat (traditional Nepali meal with rice, lentil soup, and vegetables)

    • Momo (Tibetan dumplings)

    • Noodle soups and pasta dishes

    • Fried rice or noodles

    • Soups and stews

    Vegetarian options are widely available and often recommended as meat storage can be unreliable at higher elevations. Food prices increase with altitude as supplies must be carried by porters.

  • What happens in case of an emergency?

    In case of a medical emergency:

    1. Your guide will assess the situation and provide first aid

    2. For altitude sickness or serious injuries, descent to lower elevation is the first priority

    3. If needed, helicopter evacuation will be arranged to Kathmandu

    Helicopter Evacuation:

    • Available from most points along the trek (weather permitting)

    • Typically takes 1-3 hours to arrange

    • Costs approximately $2,500-$5,000 USD (covered by proper travel insurance)

    We maintain 24/7 emergency support and have established protocols with helicopter companies and hospitals.

  • What medical facilities are available along the trek?

    Medical facilities are limited but available at key points:

    • Lukla: Basic medical facilities at Pasang Lhamu Nicole Niquille Hospital

    • Namche Bazaar: Himalayan Rescue Association aid post (during peak seasons)

    • Pheriche: HRA aid post with Western-trained doctors (during peak seasons)

    Your guide carries a first aid kit for basic treatment. For serious medical emergencies, helicopter evacuation to Kathmandu is necessary.

  • What essential gear do I need?

    Key items include:

    • Moisture-wicking base layers and insulating mid-layers

    • Waterproof and windproof outer shell (jacket and pants)

    • Warm hat, sun hat, gloves, and neck gaiter

    • Waterproof hiking boots (well broken-in)

    • Sleeping bag (rated to at least -10°C)

    • Daypack (25-35L) for carrying daily essentials

    • Trekking poles (highly recommended)

    • Headlamp with extra batteries

    • Water bottles and purification method

    • Sunglasses (100% UV protection) and sunscreen (SPF 50+)

    • Personal first aid kit and toiletries

    We provide a duffel bag, company t-shirt and cap as souvenirs for you to use during the trek.

  • What can I rent in Kathmandu versus what should I bring?

    Items you can easily rent in Kathmandu:

    • Down jacket

    • Sleeping bag

    • Trekking poles

    Items to bring from home:

    • Hiking boots (well broken-in)

    • Base layers and underwear

    • Personal medications

    • Electronics and chargers

    Kathmandu has numerous trekking shops in the Thamel area. We can recommend reliable rental shops.

     

  • What additional expenses should I budget for?

    Beyond your trek package, budget for:

    Meals During Trek:

    • Breakfast: $5-10 per meal

    • Lunch: $8-15 per meal

    • Dinner: $10-18 per meal

    • Total food cost: $35-50 per day (approximately $525-750 for the 15-day trek)

    Daily Expenses on the Trail:

    • Hot showers: $3-7 per shower

    • Wi-Fi: $3-5 per day

    • Battery charging: $2-5 per device

    • Extra snacks and drinks: $2-8 per item

    Other Expenses:

    • International airfare to/from Nepal

    • Nepal visa fees ($30-$125 depending on duration)

    • Travel insurance (mandatory)

    • Personal trekking gear

    • Meals in Kathmandu (except breakfast and farewell dinner)

  • How much cash should I carry during the trek?

    We recommend carrying enough Nepalese Rupees for the entire trek as ATM access is extremely limited:

    • ATMs are only available in Lukla and Namche Bazaar

    • ATMs in Lukla can be unreliable due to power and connectivity issues

    • Namche Bazaar has more dependable ATMs, but it's still wise to carry spare cash

    • No ATM facilities exist beyond Namche Bazaar

    • Exchange currency in Kathmandu before starting your trek

    • Carry small denominations as change can be limited in remote areas

    • Keep your money secure in a money belt or hidden pouch

  • What is the tipping etiquette for guides and porters?

    Tipping is expected and an important part of the trekking culture in Nepal:

    Recommended amounts:

    • The recommended amount is 10-15% of your total trip price
    • Porters should be tipped in Lukla before the flight back to Kathmandu
    • Guides can be tipped in Kathmandu before departur
  • What are the payment terms and cancellation policy?

    Payment Terms:

    • 20% non-refundable deposit required to confirm booking

    • Balance payment due upon arrival in Kathmandu

    Cancellation Policy:

    • Cancellations 20 days or more before departure: 20% of total trip price deducted

    • Cancellations less than 20 days before departure: 100% charge, no refund

    • Trip rescheduling fee: $200 per person

  • What communication options are available during the trek?
    • Mobile Coverage: Available in most villages but can be spotty and unreliable

    • Wi-Fi: Available at most teahouses for a fee ($3-5 per day)

    • Internet Speed: Generally slow, suitable for basic messaging but not video calls

    • Local SIM Cards: NCell and Nepal Telecom SIM cards can be purchased in Kathmandu

    • Signal Strength: Decreases at higher altitudes and in remote areas

    For emergency communication, your guide will have alternative methods to contact our office in Kathmandu.

  • What is the visa process for Nepal?

    To enter Nepal, you'll need a tourist visa:

    Visa on Arrival: Available at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu

    • 15-day visa: $30 USD

    • 30-day visa: $50 USD

    • 90-day visa: $125 USD

    • Bring cash (USD preferred), a passport-sized photo, and your passport (valid for at least 6 months)

    • Expect processing time of 30 minutes to 1.5 hours

    Online Application: You can also apply online before arrival through Nepal's Department of Immigration website

    • Complete the form and print the confirmation

    • Pay the visa fee upon arrival

  • What if I want to customize my trek beyond the standard itinerary?

    We offer flexible customization options for your trek:

    • Private Departures: Choose your own start date

    • Itinerary Modifications: Add or remove days, change pace, or include side trips

    • Extensions: Add on experiences like Gokyo Lakes, Island Peak, or Chitwan National Park

    • Accommodation Upgrades: Request higher standard lodges where available

    • Special Interests: Focus on photography, culture, or wildlife

    Simply contact us with your preferences, and we'll create a customized itinerary that meets your needs. We never force our customers to follow our set itinerary.

Essential Trip Information

  • Medical consultation is essential before your trek – consult with a doctor regarding any medications you plan to take or bring during the trek, as high altitude can affect how medications work in your body. Disclose all medications you plan to bring to your trek leaders and guides.

  • Diamox (Acetazolamide) is commonly used for altitude sickness prevention, but should only be taken after consulting with your doctor about proper dosage and potential side effects.

  • Vaccinations recommended before coming to Nepal include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, COVID-19, and seasonal influenza. Consult your healthcare provider at least 4-6 weeks before travel for personalized vaccination advice.

  • Ramechaap drive is used for flying to Lukla during busy season (March-May, October-November) – requires early 2 AM departure for a 5-hour drive to Manthali Airport, followed by a short flight to Lukla.

  • Spare days are essential – plan 2-3 additional days beyond the standard itinerary to avoid missing international flights due to unpredictable Himalayan weather. Schedule your international departure at least 2-3 days after your planned trek completion.

  • UNESCO World Heritage sites: Sightseeing options in Kathmandu include visits to Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), and Kathmandu Durbar Square, available on the second day or after completing the trek.

  • Day activities: Day biking excursions are available as an alternative activity option, with all necessary equipment and guides provided. Rafting adventures on the Trishuli River can also be arranged for those seeking additional excitement.

  • Group discounts: Special rates are available for groups booking together, with larger groups qualifying for greater savings. Contact us for specific pricing based on your party size.

Packing Checklist

These items are considered absolutely critical by our guides. Based on our extensive experience in the Himalayas, we strongly recommend prioritizing these items for your Everest Base Camp & Ama Dablam Trek:

  • Waterproof hiking boots – Well broken-in and comfortable with ankle support

  • Layered clothing system – Base, mid, and outer layers for adaptability to changing conditions

  • Warm sleeping bag – Rated for at least 0°F/-10°C

  • UV-protecting sunglasses – For protection against intense high-altitude sun

  • Headlamp with spare batteries – Essential for navigating in dark conditions

  • Water bottles/hydration system – For maintaining proper hydration at altitude

  • Daypack – For carrying daily essentials while trekking

view full list

We give you the power to choose the departure date that suits your group best. A private trip is a perfect solution if you can’t find a published departure date that you and your companions agree on. You can set up a private departure for most of the trips we offer.

Travellers PRICING FROM (USD)
1 1510
2-3 1200
4-9 1060

We never force our customers to follow our set itinerary. You can customize your itinerary exactly the way you want. Please share with us your ideas.

Customize your trip single

TRIP MAP

csr

As one of the core guiding principles for Mountain Kick, we always give back to the mountain community in any way we can as a means of gratitude. The people who live in the Himalayas and share their homes with us deserve to have all their little problems fixed which seem very basic for outsiders but are commonplace in rural Nepal. The people lack proper access to healthcare, sanitation and education but a little effort from travellers goes on a long way to solve these issues. Mountain Kick has made it its corporate social responsibility to help improve the living standards of the local community. We make donations to their cause, organize social campaigns and programs and also have a few trips designed to mix a little volunteer work in your holiday.

READ MORE ABOUT CSR

Ready to Book Your Trip?

QUICK INQUIRY

Quick inquiry form

More Trip Inspiration

everest-base-camp
from usd 1,160
14 Days trekking to 18,519FT

Everest Base Camp Trek

Everest-gokyo-trek
from usd 1,260
17 Days trekking to 18,519FT

Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Valley

everesttrek
from usd 1,320
20 Days trekking to 18,519FT

Everest Three Passes Trek

Our Representatives