THE ESSENTIAL EBC GUIDE

CONTENTS

Best Time of Year to Trek to Everest Base Camp

Money Management: Cash vs Card?

Cost and Budgeting

Packing List and Gear Guide

Fitness and Training Tips

Getting to Lukla

Accommodation and Food

Travel Insurance

BEST TIME OF YEAR TO TREK EBC

Choosing the right season is crucial for a safe and enjoyable Everest Base Camp trek. The best times to trek are:

🌸 Spring (March – May) - BEST

• Best weather with clear skies and mild temperatures.

• Rhododendrons in bloom, adding vibrant colors to the trails.

• Popular season, so expect more trekkers on the route.

🍂 Autumn (September – November) - BEST

• Crisp, clear skies and the best mountain views.

• Stable weather with moderate temperatures.

• Peak season, so teahouses can fill up quickly.

🌧️ Monsoon (June – August) – Not Recommended

• Heavy rains, landslides, and poor visibility.

• Flights to Lukla often delayed or canceled.

• Trails are muddy and leech-infested.

❄️ Winter (December – February) – Challenging but Possible

• Freezing temperatures, especially above 4,000m.

• Fewer crowds and quieter trails.

• Risk of heavy snowfall blocking the route.

For the best experience, we recommend trekking in spring or autumn when conditions are ideal for reaching Everest Base Camp safely and comfortably.

MONEY MANAGEMENT: CASH vs CARD?

When traveling in Nepal, you have several options for managing your money. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide what works best:

1. Bringing Cash:

* Importing Cash: You can import up to $5,000 USD in cash. When you arrive, you can exchange your money at the airport or in towns along the trek, such as Lukla and Namche. However, for the best rates, it’s advisable to do your currency exchange in Thamel (Kathmandu).

* USD Advantage: Carrying USD is useful because many local transactions and banks use the USD as a reference. If you decide to convert all your money into Nepali Rupees at once, keep the cash in a secure bag that stays with you at all times.

* On-the-Go Exchanges: If you prefer not to carry large sums, you can exchange money as needed in Kathmandu, Lukla, and Namche. Keep in mind that exchange rates may vary between these locations.

2. Using a Debit Card:

* A Mastercard debit card is a convenient option. It allows you to withdraw Nepali currency from ATMs, like those at Nabil Bank and NIMB. ATMs are available in Kathmandu, Lukla, Namche, and sometimes Dingboche. However, note that this method might be more expensive than cash exchanges as Banks usually charge a fixed rate fee and they use Dynamic Currency Conversion. Also note, that some of these ATM’s have cash limits in regards to withdrawal.

* Per Transaction Limit is 25,000 NPR and Per Daily Limit is 100,000 NPR for a bank.

* It’s wise to have both cash and a card as backups when converting local currency, especially in case of emergencies.

3. Budgeting for Your Trek:

* As you ascend, the cost of food and water can increase. Plan to have around USD$350-$400 equivalent in NPR cash to cover accommodation and meals. Choosing lodges that offer package deals (including food) can help keep costs lower.

The guide’s should be able to help you manage your money efficiently while trekking in Nepal. Enjoy your adventure and stay safe!

COSTS AND BUDGETING

The cost of an Everest Base Camp trek can vary depending on your choices, season, and level of comfort. Below is a breakdown of typical expenses:

Cost Breakdown

• Permits (TIMS & Sagarmatha National Park): $50

• Lukla Flight (Round-trip): $200 – $400

• Teahouse Accommodation: $5 – $20 per night

• Food (Dal Bhat, Momos, etc.): $8 – $15 per meal

• Hot Showers & WiFi: $2 – $5 per use

• Charging Electronics: $2 – $5 per charge

How Our Minimalist Package Saves You Money

Unlike other trekking companies that bundle flights, meals, and extras into expensive packages, we only connect you with experienced Sherpas and porters—letting you book flights, accommodations, and meals independently. This approach:

✅ Keeps costs low and avoids overpaying for package markups.

✅ Gives your Sherpa flexibility to find the best deals for accommodation, food and other expenses.

✅ Ensures more of your money goes to the Sherpas.

By planning smartly and trekking with one of our expert Sherpas, you can experience Everest Base Camp on your budget.

PACKING LIST & GEAR GUIDE

Packing the right gear is crucial for a comfortable and safe Everest Base Camp trek. With varying altitudes and temperatures, you need to be prepared for cold mornings, warm afternoons, and freezing nights. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Clothing

✔ Base Layers – Moisture-wicking thermal tops & bottoms

✔ Insulating Layer – Fleece or down jacket for warmth

✔ Outer Shell – Waterproof and windproof jacket & pants

✔ Trekking Pants & Shirts – Lightweight, breathable fabric

✔ Gloves, Hat & Buff – Protection from cold and wind

Footwear & Accessories

✔ Trekking Boots – Waterproof and well-broken-in

✔ Camp Shoes – Sandals or sneakers for teahouse stays

✔ Wool Socks – Keeps feet warm and prevents blisters

✔ Sunglasses & Sunscreen – High-altitude UV protection

Gear & Equipment

✔ Backpack (40-50L) – Comfortable and lightweight

✔ Sleeping Bag (-10°C to -20°C rated) – Rental available in Kathmandu

✔ Trekking Poles – Reduces strain on knees

✔ Headlamp – Essential for early morning hikes

Miscellaneous Essentials

✔ Water Bottles & Purification Tablets – Avoid buying plastic bottles

✔ Snacks & Energy Bars – Quick fuel for the trek

✔ Personal First Aid Kit – Includes altitude sickness meds, bandages, and painkillers

✔ Power Bank – Limited charging spots along the route

RENTING GEAR IN KATHMANDU

If you don’t want to buy expensive gear, renting equipment in Kathmandu is a great option. Thamel, the main tourist area, has plenty of trekking shops offering rentals at affordable rates.

Gear Available for Rent

• Sleeping Bags (-10°C to -20°C) → $1 – $2 per day

• Down Jackets → $1 – $2 per day

• Trekking Poles → $1 per day

• Backpacks (40-50L) → $2 per day

• Crampons (if needed for winter) → $2 – $3 per day

Note: most rental shops require a deposit (passport copy or cash), so be prepared. Always check gear quality before renting!

FITNESS AND TRAINING TIPS

While the Everest Base Camp trek is not a technical climb, it is a physically demanding hike. Training properly will help you enjoy the journey and reduce the risk of altitude sickness and fatigue.

How to Prepare Physically

🏃 Cardio Training – Running, hiking, or cycling 3-4 times per week improves endurance.

⛰️ Hiking Practice – Try carrying a 5-10kg backpack on uphill hikes to simulate trek conditions.

🏋️ Strength Training – Leg exercises (squats, lunges) help with steep climbs.

🧘 Flexibility & Core – Yoga and stretching prevent stiffness and injuries.

Acclimatization & Altitude Readiness

Train at higher altitudes if possible (mountain hikes, stair climbing).

Increase stamina with long walks (10-15km) while carrying a backpack.

Practice controlled breathing (deep belly breathing) to adapt to lower oxygen levels.

Sample 6-Week Training Plan

✅ Weeks 1-2: 3-5km runs + light hikes + strength workouts

✅ Weeks 3-4: 5-10km hikes with a backpack + endurance training

✅ Weeks 5-6: Longer hikes (10-15km) + elevation gain training

Even if you’re not a seasoned trekker, proper training will help you reach Everest Base Camp confidently!

GETTING TO LUKLA

Lukla is a small town in the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu rural municipality where treks to EBC begin. The Lukla flight is the quickest way to start the EBC trek. However, flights from Kathmandu to Lukla are often rerouted to Ramechhap (4-5 hrs by road) during peak season due to congestion.

Flight Tips:

• Book flights early to secure your spot.

• Morning flights are less likely to be delayed.

• Pack light—Lukla flight weight limit is 15kg (including hand luggage).

Alternative Routes (Without Flying)

• Jiri to EBC – Traditional 20+ day trek.

• Phaplu to EBC – Adds 4-5 extra days to the trek.

• Helicopter to Lukla – Costs around $500+ per person but avoids flight delays.

ACCOMMODATION AND FOOD

The EBC trek follows a teahouse trekking system, where small lodges provide basic rooms and home-cooked meals.

Teahouse Lodging

✅Basic twin-sharing rooms with simple beds.

✅Shared bathrooms (hot showers cost extra).

✅Higher altitude = more basic facilities.

Food & Meals

✅Dal Bhat (Rice & Lentils) – Unlimited refills!

✅Momos (Dumplings), Thukpa (Noodle Soup), Pasta, and Porridge.

✅Meat is not recommended above Namche (due to lack of refrigeration).

✅Food prices increase with altitude—budget $8-$15 per meal.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

Due to high altitudes, travel insurance covering helicopter evacuation is mandatory.

What Your Insurance Should Cover:

✅High-altitude trekking (up to 6,000m)

✅Helicopter evacuation ($5,000–$10,000 cost without insurance!)

✅Medical emergencies & trip cancellations

💡 Popular providers include World Nomads, Allianz, and Global Rescue. Always check coverage before purchasing!