Trekking to Everest base camp is not just any other common trek but a dream for many adventure seekers. It is an expedition in itself and offers a lot more than just a trekking experience. It has got an international reputation and is very famous for providing an unmatched view of the highest peak on the planet, Mt. Everest. If you are looking for a trekking experience outside of India, then Everest base camp trek is one of the leading treks that one should go for. It is one of the longest and highest treks in the world and will be a lifetime experience for you.
Why you must visit Everest Base camp trek –
1. One of its kind Trek in the world
Everest base camp trek is truly one of its kind treks from all over the world. It provides mesmerizing views of many peaks and covers a large part of the Himalayan mountain range. While conquering Mt. Everest is definitely an achievement but successfully completing the trek to camp is a feat in itself. Trekkers from all over the world come here to have the experience of their lifetime. While you are trekking to Everest base camp, you also get to meet a lot of famous mountaineers along with people who will finally make it to the summit as well.
2. Namche Bazaar
One of the most famous destinations one comes across while trekking to Everest Base camp is Namche Bazaar. It is very famous for its local colorful shopping markets along with the rich culture of the Sherpas. Namche Bazaar is one of the highest altitude towns in the world and offers amazing views of the peaks like Kongdi Ri, Thamserku, and obviously Mt. Everest.
3. The Sagarmatha National Park
Sagarmatha National Park is a UNESCO world heritage site and known for its exotic flora and fauna. It is one of the highest national parks in the world and one gets to travel through Sagarmatha National Park while trekking to the Camp. With snow-white mountain peaks in the background, lush green forests of alpine trees just add to the overall beauty of the place. If you are lucky enough, you may spot snow leopards as well in the vicinity of Sagarmatha National Park.
Best Time for Trekking –
The best time for trekking to camp is either Spring (from April to May) or Autumn (from October to November). It rains heavily from June to September which makes it difficult and very dangerous for trekking. Temperature changes dramatically over the day and while it is warm in the morning, it drastically decreases to sub-zero levels during the night. One has to be prepared enough to face climatic conditions while trekking to Everest base camp.
Everest Base Camp Trek Difficulty –
Everest base camp trek is usually referred to as moderate to difficult level trek mainly because of the dramatic change in the altitude during the trek. It has lots of ups and downs and therefore the trek becomes difficult for beginners. You don’t have to be super fit for the trek but trekking to Everest base camp requires basic fitness and preparedness, both physically and mentally.
The entire trek is spread out into 14 days of walking with a total distance of 123 km from Lukla to Everest Base Camp to Gokyo and back. The average walking time is around 4 – 8 hours per day. There are many other factors that may determine the difficulty level of the trek which also includes your backpack size and the items you carry during the trek.
Things to carry for Everest Base Camp Trek –
1. Trekking Shoes –
Buy good quality trekking shoes that are ideal for hiking at such a high altitude. At Chola Pass, trekkers require high ankle shoes for a better grip while walking through the glacier.
2. Large backpack –
Carry a backpack with a capacity of more than 60 liters. It is a long trek that spans over 12 days and requires many basic items throughout the journey.
3. Hiking clothes –
Carry a weatherproof jacket. The clothes should be light and breathable so that one does not feel suffocated while trekking as hiking at such high altitude results in a lot of sweating.