There are several ways to explore the Himalayas. Among these is Everest Trekking. There are different routes, highlights, costs, and distances. Read on to discover more. Regardless of the route you choose, it is important to know the basics to ensure that your trip is as smooth as possible.
Routes
There are several routes available for Everest trekking, and each offers different advantages and disadvantages. For example, a route through the Khumbu region may take you to the base camp of the mountain, or it may pass through the picturesque Imja Khola valley. Regardless of the route chosen, the view from the base camp can be stunning. There are also side trips along the way to charming villages.
Everest trekking can also take place on the south side of the mountain, which involves climbing through a dangerous icefall. However, this route is far less demanding than the north side, and is much easier to rescue if an accident happens. The south route usually starts from base camp I, and is characterized by fewer dangerous sections.
Highlights
There are many highlights to the Everest trek. The first is the base camp, a must-visit destination, which is also known as “Heaven on Earth”. The trail leads through Sherpa villages, beautiful forests and glacial moraines. The trail is suitable for active adventurers and offers spectacular views of Nuptse, the highest peak on Earth.
Another major highlight is the Hillary Museum, located in the world-famous Namche Bazaar. It is open to all Everest trekking expeditions and is dedicated to Sir Edmund Hillary. It features displays of traditional Sherpa life, art, trekking gear, and past photographs. Trekkers often visit the museum during their acclimatization day.
Distances
Distances for Everest Trekking vary depending on the trekking route and the level of altitude. The round trip of the Everest Base Camp Trek is 130 km. As you walk to the base camp, it is important to pace yourself and avoid altitude sickness. The average speed required is five kilometers per hour.
There are two popular routes. The Everest Base Camp Trek and the Three Passes Trek. The Everest Base Camp Trek is the most popular. The Three Passes Trek is a circular route and includes the Kongma La (18,175) and Cho La (17,782 feet) passes.
Costs
The cost of the Everest trekking trip can vary depending on where you go and what you need. You can expect to pay anywhere from $7 to $15 per day for accommodation, but you should also budget for food and drinks as the higher you go, the more expensive they become. The typical fare at the teahouses along the trail is Dal Bhaat, a heavy carbohydrate meal that can cost between $5 and $12. You can also expect to pay about $4 per liter for bottled water.
If you’re going on a budget, you may consider trekking in Nepal without any escorts, which can save you money. There are many private tour companies that can arrange for you to reach base camp at a cheaper price than international companies. Depending on your preferences and comfort level, a 12-day trek can cost anywhere from $360 to $500. Depending on the duration of your trek, you can choose to rent a guide or go it alone. If you’re going with a tour company, it’s usually better to go with one that’s local. Generally, guided Everest treks to the base camp can cost anywhere from $1200 to $4500.
Flights to Lukla Airport
Flights to Lukla Airport are a common way to access Everest Base Camp, but there are some safety considerations to take into account. The runway is incredibly narrow and difficult to navigate. The pilot must also know how to communicate with the pilot on the ground and land in a safe and timely manner. A pilot must also have at least one year of STOL experience and 10 flights in the area under the supervision of a certified instructor. Because of this, flights to Lukla airport are often cancelled or delayed.
Once you have a flight reservation, you will need to arrive at Lukla airport at least one to two hours prior to your departure. After you’ve checked in at the check-in desk, head to the waiting area. The airport is small, with limited facilities. You’ll need to wait patiently. There’s no public announcement system, so you’ll have to rely on local guides to locate you.
Accommodations
Before planning your Everest Base Camp Trek, you should know about the different kinds of accommodation available in the Everest Region. The options range from basic tea houses to luxurious hotels. Budget-conscious travelers should opt for lodges or tea houses, which offer excellent service and amenities like WiFi and hot water showers. Luxury hotels, on the other hand, are highly recommended for those who want to spend more.
Everest region is famous for its cultural and physical diversity. Aside from the world’s highest mountains, the country’s people are warm and welcoming. Whether you’re trekking to the summit of the world’s tallest mountain, you’ll want to stay in comfortable accommodation to maximize your experience. Luxury hotels and lodges like Yeti Mountain Home and Everest Summit Lodge offer comfortable rooms with en-suite facilities, as well as fantastic dining experiences. In addition to modern amenities, these hotels offer WiFi access, electric blankets, and attached bathrooms.