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Everest Basecamp Trek - Longbottom

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Holidays

Everest Basecamp Trek - Longbottom

Nepal

Available Departures: Nov

16 days from

US$3,165

without flights

View Dates & Prices

Walk & Trek

Guided Group

CHALLENGING

Follow the iconic trail on this Everest Base Camp Trek to the foot of the world's highest mountain

Trip Code: EBLL

Our Holiday Grades Explained

To show the relative difficulty of our holidays, each trip is graded on a scale of 1 to 12, with 12 being the most challenging. Although we have tried to make our grading system as clear as possible, it cannot take into account your personal interests, abilities or experience. If you have any questions about the nature of a particular trip or its suitability for you, please read the 'Is this holiday for you?' section or contact us.

1 - 3 LEISURELY

Suitable for most people in good health, holidays at this grade include only limited amounts of activity.

View leisurely holidays

4 - 6 MODERATE

Suitable for reasonably fit individuals, such as regular walkers and cyclists. There can be the occasional more difficult day.

View moderate holidays

All Grade Information

Section:

Everest Basecamp Trek - Longbottom

Highlights

A lodge-based trek in the footsteps of famous mountaineers
Enjoy stunning views of Everest and the Himalaya from Kala Patar
Includes a full rest day to explore Namche Bazaar and soak up the Sherpa culture
Stay in excellent Kathmandu accommodation including the Hotel Shanker
FREE sleeping bag and down jacket hire are available for this holiday

At a Glance

Group Size 6 to 13
12 days trekking
Max altitude - 5600 metres
Join In Kathmandu

Accommodation & Meals

All meals included
3 nights Hotel with swimming pool
12 nights Lodge

Overview

This lodge-based trek follows the legendary 'Everest Trail' from the airstrip at Lukla. Within little more than 2 weeks, this is your chance to visit Everest Basecamp, hike up to the exceptional viewpoint of Kala Patar at sunset or sunrise and to experience the wonderful mountain scenery of the Khumbu. A memorable flight to the airstrip at Lukla provides access to an alpine world where the air is crystal clear and colourful prayer flags flutter from the rooftops.

Following the famous 'Everest Trail', we trek to the prosperous village of Namche Bazaar where spend a day resting and acclimatising, before continuing our trek alongside the torrential Imja Khola to the high valley below Everest. During the course of this excellent and relatively easy-paced trek, we visit many delightful Sherpa villages, including the stunningly located Thyangboche with its famous monastery and impressive backdrop of Everest and Ama Dablam.

Two nights at Dingboche, with an excellent acclimatisation walk to Chukkung are followed by 2 short days to Dughla and then Lobuche. This gives us the best possible preparation for our final trek from Lobuche to Everest Basecamp and means we only have to spend 1 night at Gorak Shep. Providing outrageous mountain views and a wonderful insight into the way of life of the hardy Sherpas, this is the perfect trip for a first visit to Nepal and the Himalayas.

View our full range of Everest Base Camp Treks Here.

Is this holiday for you?

Generally, the trekking conditions on this Nepal holiday are relatively easy, following good paths and yak trails. Additionally, as the Khumbu is Nepal's most popular trekking destination, the area is well supplied with teashops and lodges. It should be noted, however, that trekking above 3000 metres makes greater demands on the body than walking at low elevations and can be challenging even for fit hikers. Our itinerary is well staged to allow the best possible acclimatisation and includes extra days at Namche Bazaar and at Dingboche, followed by 2 short days to Dughla and then to Lobuche. With this arrangement, our groups have the best preparation for the final approach to Everest Base Camp, with a single night at Gorak Shep and the option to hike to the viewpoint of Kala Patar for sunset or sunrise views. To get the most out of this holiday, you should be comfortable walking for around 6 hours each day and for several days continuously, with a couple of longer days. This classic walk-in to the south side basecamp of Everest should be within the capabilities of fit and active hikers.

Why KE?

All meals included - the only way to go!
Including all meals within our holiday price means that you don't have to worry about the cost of food (at least £30 per day whether in Kathmandu or in lodges). And, you don't have the hassle, three times a day, of having to pay for your food. And, you don't have the extra concern of setting off on trek with a considerable amount of cash in your wallet.

Itinerary

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Day 1

Meet at the group hotel in Kathmandu. Kathmandu Airport transfers are provided.

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Your holiday starts at the hotel in Kathmandu. Transfers from Kathmandu Airport are provided. Depending on your arrival time, you may have the opportunity to explore the immediate vicinity of the hotel and get acclimatised to this bustling city. Alternatively, you may prefer to recover from your journey by relaxing beside the hotel pool. Your guide will take dinner with you and will provide an informal briefing about the days ahead.

Accommodation

Hotel with swimming pool

Meals

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Day 2

Early morning transfer to Ramechhap, fly to Lukla and trek to Phakding (2610m).

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After a 4am pick up from the Kathmandu hotel, we drive 5 hours to Ramechhap where we check in for a late morning, 20 minute flight to Lukla. (Outside of the peak trekking season, flights to Lukla may operate directly from Kathmandu). Landing at Lukla, on the narrow, sloping runway in the heart of the mountains, is a spectacular way to reach the Khumbu. Here, we meet our trekking crew and set off on the first stage of our trek which leads down to the river, then northwards through a number of villages to our lodge in Phakding (2610m).

Accommodation

Lodge

Meals

B L D

Ascent

270 M

Descent

500 M

Time

3 hrs trekking

Distance

8 KM

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Day 3

Trek to the Sherpa capital of Namche Bazaar (3400m). Rest of the day free to relax or explore.

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A very pleasant walk by the river through pine forest leads to a short climb to escape a narrow gorge section. We pass the entrance to the Khumbu National Park where details of our permits are recorded and then drop down again to the river which we cross on a suspension bridge. We continue up the wooded valley on a good trail and cross the river again before reaching a confluence of rivers, one coming down from Thame and the other from the Khumbu. We make a final crossing here on a spectacular high suspension bridge and then begin an hour and half long ascent to Namche Bazaar (3440m) on a wide switch-back trail. This is the sting in the tail of today’s otherwise quite gentle ascent, and one of the steepest of the trek. Just over halfway up this last hill to Namche, we gain our first views of Everest. On arrival in the Sherpa capital, we check into one of the town’s many lodges. Namche has changed tremendously since trekking first became popular in Nepal. The Sherpa people are very adept at working out what visitors need. Many of the Sherpas that own lodges, cafes and shops in the town have visited cities in the USA and Europe and have brought back all sorts of concepts. Today you can find in Namche, German bakeries, Italian coffee, British pubs, pool halls, and hot tubs.

Accommodation

Lodge

Meals

B L D

Ascent

1100 M

Descent

310 M

Time

6 hrs trekking

Distance

11 KM

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Day 4

A day in Namche Bazaar with an optional acclimatisation walk for Everest views.

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Namche Bazaar is tucked away between two ridges amongst the giant peaks of the Khumbu. An ancient market place where goods from as far away as Tibet were and still are traded, Namche today boasts an abundance of lodges, cafes, bars and souvenir shops. It is a great place to spend an acclimatisation day before going higher. The guide will be keen to take everyone on an acclimatisation walk, whether this involves going as high as the village of Khumjung (3780m) above Namche, or just to the Everest View Hotel. Either of these options provides superb views of Ama Dablam, Nuptse, Lhotse and Everest. We spend a second night at our lodge in Namche Bazaar.

Accommodation

Lodge

Meals

B L D

Ascent

500 M

Descent

500 M

Time

4 hrs trekking

Distance

9 KM

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Day 5

Trek to Thyangboche (3860m) on a ridge below the north ridge of Kang Taiga.

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A relatively easy day of trekking, although at this altitude it will still feel tough on the uphill section to Thyangboche at the end of the day. The trail today is spectacular in terms of scenery. The main trail out of Namche heads in a northwesterly direction climbing steeply out of the town to a ridge crest where a wonderful view of Everest, Lhotse and Ama Dablam is revealed. Our trail now follows a contour high above the river with occasional short climbs as we cross a series of ridges. At the end of this contour trail is the tiny settlement of Kangjuma where various items of local art and craft, jewelry and even yak bells are laid out to entice passing trekkers to buy a souvenir of their visit. From Kangjuma the trail descends to a bridge across the Imja River at Phunki. Beyond the river, we climb a long ridge to Thyangboche (3860m), the location of one of Nepal’s finest monasteries. We have the chance to look around the monastery and the visitor centre there. This is a popular place to overnight as it not only affords a good view of the Everest/Lhotse massif but is also the classic viewpoint for Ama Dablam. However, water is scarce here and the lodges are often crowded so we may opt to continue for a further 20 minutes, descending to a lodge beside the river at Deboche.

Accommodation

Lodge

Meals

B L D

Ascent

985 M

Descent

700 M

Time

6 - 7 hrs trekking

Distance

11 KM

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Day 6

Trek to Dingboche (4410m) at the entrance to the Khumbu Valley.

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After breakfast at the lodge, we trek for a couple of hours to the village of Pangboche, where there is the oldest monastery in the Khumbu. An hour beyond Pangboche, there is a good lunch stop at the small Sherpa hamlet of Shomare and then it is a further 3 hours walking, gaining height very gradually, to Dingboche (4410m) at the entrance to the Khumbu Valley. We overnight in one of the relaxing lodges in this small and picturesque Sherpa village.

Accommodation

Lodge

Meals

B L D

Ascent

870 M

Descent

420 M

Time

6 hrs trekking

Distance

12 KM

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Day 7

Imja Valley acclimatisation walk with great views towards Tibet. Return to Dingboche.

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In accordance with our careful program of acclimatisation we will spend 2 nights at this altitude before moving further up the Khumbu Valley. To further our fitness and state of acclimatisation we will have a day hike to Chukkung (4730m) in the upper part of the Imja Valley and directly below the tremendous 3000 metre south face of Lhotse. This is a high and wild corner of the Khumbu, visited by relatively few trekkers and the views here of ice flutings and soaring, serrated mountain ridges are sensational. After a most scenic lunch stop, we retrace our steps to Dingboche to spend a second night in the Dingboche lodge. There are fantastic views towards Tibet and of Island Peak and Ama Dablam.

Accommodation

Lodge

Meals

B L D

Ascent

440 M

Descent

440 M

Time

5 hrs trekking

Distance

10 KM

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Day 8

Trek up to the lake of Chola Tso and drop back down to Dughla (4620m).

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Today is effectively another day of acclimatisation as we make our approach to Everest Basecamp. After a leisurely breakfast, our route takes us up the Khumbu Valley on a high trail beneath Pokalde Peak (5806m) and climbs only very gradually for little more than 2 hours to the tiny settlement and lodge at Dugla (4620m) which will be our home for the night. From here, we have the option to hike up the hillside above our lodge and contour around above the glacial lake of Chola Tso at an elevation of 4800 metres. This is the well-used trail leading to the Cho La (5330m) and the summer yak grazing area of Dzonglha and we can choose just how far we want to go. There is a fantastic and ever-changing panorama across the lake to the Chola Glacier and the spectacular peak of Cholatse (6335m). We return to spend the night in Dughla.

Accommodation

Lodge

Meals

B L D

Ascent

600 M

Descent

400 M

Time

4 - 5 hrs trekking

Distance

8 KM

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Day 9

A short day, trekking beside the Khumbu Glacier to the lodges at Lobuche (4910m).

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Another short day as we ascend the Khumbu Valley, starting out with an uphill section to the Thokla Pass (4830m), where we find the memorial to those Sherpas who have died on Mount Everest. Here, the trail starts to level out and we follow the lateral moraine on the west side of the Khumbu Glacier to our lodge in Lobuche (4910m) which we reach well before lunch. The collection of lodges at Lobuche occupies a rocky, streamside location surrounded by towering peaks including Pumori (7161m), Nuptse (7861m) and Lhotse (8516m).

Accommodation

Lodge

Meals

B L D

Ascent

350 M

Descent

60 M

Time

3 hrs trekking

Distance

4 KM

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Day 10

Trek to Everest Base Camp and back to Gorak Shep (5140m).

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Heading north, we follow a trail through the ablation valley at the side of the Khumbu Glacier. We cross the rubble of a tributary glacier and get our first views of the Khumbu Glacier stretching away down valley and up towards the area of basecamp. After around 5 kilometres walking, we pass the island of sparse grasses at the place known as Gorak Shep (5140m), once a summer yak pasture in the middle of nowhere and now home to some of the highest lodges in Nepal. It's just another 3 kilometres or so to Everest Basecamp (5364m), walking at first on the moraine crest and finally on the Khumbu Glacier itself. We will spend some time at this inspirational spot, close beneath the stupendous Khumbu Icefall, before retracing our steps to Gorak Shep and our lodge. The lodges at Gorak Shep are quite basic but they do have heated dining rooms and offer a degree of comfort. For anyone with energy to spare, there's the option in the late afternoon to hike to the top of the prominent Kala Patar (5550m) for the sunset views.

Accommodation

Lodge

Meals

B L D

Ascent

500 M

Descent

270 M

Time

6 - 7 hrs trekking

Distance

12 KM

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Day 11

Optional Kala Patar for the sunrise. Then breakfast and trek down to Pangboche (3940m).

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The views from Kala Patar are just as impressive in the early morning and the 3 kilometre round trip to the top (with 410 metres of ascent) will take around 2 to 3 hours for those who are up for the pre-dawn start. Then after breakfast at the lodge we will make the long and quite gradual descent of the Khumbu Valley via Lobuche and Pheriche (4240m). Overlooked by striking peaks including the very impressive Ama Dablam, we continue our walk-out as far as Pangboche (3940m) where we check in at our lodge.

Accommodation

Lodge

Meals

B L D

Ascent

250 M

Descent

1400 M

Time

8 - 9 hrs trekking

Distance

18 KM

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Day 12

Trek to Namche Bazaar via Phortse (3810m) on an alternative high trail.

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Leaving Pangboche we follow an excellent trail that contours the hillside and leaves the main Everest Trail far below it. On this trail we have great views across to Thyangboche Monastery beneath the towering face of Kang Taiga. After a couple of hours walking, we pass through the less often visited and still quite traditional village of Phortse (3810m) at the mouth of the Gokyo Valley. From here we make a long descent to the Dudh Kosi River and, crossing this on a simple bridge, begin the steady 400 metre climb on a switch-back trail up to the Mon La (3900m). From here we descend to rejoin the main Everest Trail and continue to Namche Bazaar (3400m) which we reach after 4 or 5 hours. The Sherpa capital is a great place in which to celebrate our trekking achievements and after checking in at our lodge there will be plenty of time for sightseeing and souvenir buying in the afternoon. Overnight in Namche.

Accommodation

Lodge

Meals

B L D

Ascent

780 M

Descent

1320 M

Time

7 hrs trekking

Distance

16 KM

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Day 13

Trek downhill beside the Dudh Kosi River, with a final short climb to Lukla.

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This is the final day of our Everest trekking experience, as we descend, steeply at first, to the trail beside the Dudh Kosi. We cross the river a couple of times on bridges and after 2 hours reach the village of Monjo. Continuing our trek and descending more gradually, the valley becomes more enclosed as we pass Phakding. After a stop for lunch, we continue on the river's true left bank to Chopling (2660m) where we begin the final climb of the trip (the sting in the tail) with a 45 minute steady ascent up to the airstrip at Lukla. Arriving at this bustling airstrip settlement, we check in at our lodge and have some free time. In the evening we will no doubt have a party to celebrate the end of a great trek and to say goodbye to our trek crew.

Accommodation

Lodge

Meals

B L D

Ascent

600 M

Descent

1200 M

Time

6 - 7 hrs trekking

Distance

18 KM

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Day 14

Fly to Ramechhap and transfer to Kathmandu.

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After saying goodbye to our Sherpa crew, we board the flight to Ramechhap and from there transfer by road to Kathmandu. (Outside of the peak trekking season, flights may operate directly back to Kathmandu). Arriving late afternoon, the rest of the day is free for sightseeing or shopping amongst the streets and bazaars of the Nepalese capital. In the evening there will be a celebratory meal and time to reflect on our Khumbu adventure.

Accommodation

Hotel with swimming pool

Meals

B L D

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Day 15

Free day in Kathmandu for sightseeing, shopping or relaxing.

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This is an important contingency day in case of delays to the flights from Lukla. If we have experienced no delays this is another opportunity for independent exploration amongst the colourful streets and temples of Kathmandu.

Accommodation

Hotel with swimming pool

Meals

B L D

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Day 16

Your holiday ends after breakfast. Transfers to Kathmandu Airport are provided.

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Your holiday ends after breakfast. Transfers to Kathmandu Airport are provided. To extend your holiday in Nepal, why not pre-book a day's sightseeing tour in the Kathmandu Valley, or a multi-day excursion to the wildlife reserve at Chitwan. Contact our office for details.

Meals

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The Route

Airport

Point

Peaks

Direction

Walk/Trek

Essential Information

We've compiled some of our Frequently Asked Questions to help you learn more about this amazing trip.

Holiday

General

Equipment

What's Included

A professional and qualified Nepalese tour leader
Kathmandu Airport transfers
Internal flights and all land transport involved in the itinerary
Accommodation as described
All meals
Once on trek the group will be assisted by porters and a local guide
FREE Sleeping bag and down jacket hire is available for this holiday on request

What's not Included

Travel Insurance
Nepalese Visa
Tips for porters and other trek staff
Miscellaneous personal expenses - drinks etc

Joining Arrangements & Transfers

The group will meet at the hotel in Kathmandu.

Transfers are provided from/to Kathmandu Airport for all clients arriving on Day 1 of the Land Only itinerary and departing on the last day of the Land Only itinerary.

Hotel contact details and an emergency number will be provided with your booking confirmation.

Meal Plan

All meals are included from Dinner on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 16.

Special Diets

Whilst we can cater for vegetarians, albeit sometimes with a more limited choice, we cannot always provide special diets. Due to the nature of some of the trips that we operate and the countries in which we operate them, it can be very hard (and sometimes impossible) to cater for a wide range of dietary choices and you may have to supplement your diet with food/snacks from home. If you have specific dietary requirements please do speak to our sales team and they will be able to advise you whether or not we will be able to offer your specific choice. Please note that we are unable to provide separate menus and cannot accept liability for any problems arising from special dietary requirements or intolerances.

Food & Water

Breakfasts on trek will generally be a set meal including porridge, bread with jam and/or honey and a small omelette or hard-boiled egg, together with tea or coffee. Lunch will be a set, single-course meal with tea or coffee. Dinner will be a set 3-course meal; soup, main and a simple dessert with tea or coffee. The lodges will typically provide Nepali dishes such as rice and dal, as well as ‘international’ dishes like pizza and chips. So that the group can eat dinner together, your trip leader will pre-order the main course, alternating daily between local and international dishes. If you wish to order additional dishes and/or snacks, you should budget accordingly. Boiled drinking water is provided at breakfast, lunch and dinner. All the lodges and tea-houses sell snacks, chocolate bars, soft drinks and beer.

Accommodation

In Kathmandu we use comfortable 4 and 5 star accommodation including the Hotel Shanker. Located in the heart of the city, this hotel offers a range of first-class facilities including a pleasant tree-shaded garden area complete with swimming pool. Whilst on trek we stay in good local lodges. Accommodation is generally arranged on a twin sharing basis and if you are travelling by yourself you will usually be paired up with someone of the same sex. Please note that at one or two of the higher lodges we may be forced to use multi-bedded rooms. Nepalese trekking lodges are simple, friendly and atmospheric. They generally have heated dining areas which are often attractively decorated. Bedrooms are, however, basic and unheated with wooden beds and foam mattress. You will need a sleeping bag. The lodges have shared washing and toilet facilities. Some lodges have solar powered showers (charged at $4 - $5 per shower) and battery charging facilities (also charged at a rate per hour). Staying at the lodges is a great way to meet fellow hikers and the locals. For the 3 nights in Kathmandu single rooms are available for a supplementary cost. It is not possible to arrange single accommodation in lodges. Additional hotel nights in Kathmandu can also be pre-booked.

Internal flights

Access to the high and remote areas of the Himalaya where our treks start is often only possible using internal flights. The changeable nature of mountain weather makes flying conditions complex. In addition, the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal does not operate to the same standards as those of western nations and all airlines in Nepal appear on the UK Air Safety List (ASL), and are banned from operating commercial air services to, from, and within the United Kingdom. Flying in Nepal is an acknowledged risk, and the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office travel advice provides further details which you can read on their website. KE is mindful of its duty of care to clients travelling with us in Nepal and we are stakeholders in an annual independent air audit of Nepal airlines undertaken by UK tour operators, most recently carried out in February 2025. KE only uses airlines in Nepal which have been approved by this audit. We continue to cooperate with other tour operators to monitor aviation safety in Nepal and will ensure we remain a stakeholder in any further air safety audits. While we have taken appropriate action to try to minimise the risks of flying in Nepal, you should be aware that flying in mountainous terrain is not without any risk.

Please note that poor weather can cause delays on internal flights. If at the start of your holiday internal flights are cancelled for the day, you will spend an extra night near the airport (this may be at a hotel other than the group hotel). On the majority of trips there is enough flexibility in the trekking itinerary to make up 1 or possibly 2 lost days, but an alternative trek will be provided if delays to internal flights mean the original itinerary (or a shortened version of it) is no longer feasible.

For trips that end with an internal flight out of the mountains with no alternative road access, we have included 2 nights in Kathmandu as a contingency against delay. In the extremely unlikely event that a delay to your internal flight causes you to miss your homeward international flight, KE will re-book international flights for Flight Inclusive clients, but please be aware that clients booking on a Land Only basis will be responsible for re-booking their onward travel and for any associated costs. We advise you to take out suitable travel insurance and to keep your receipts, as you may subsequently be able to make a claim.

Group Leader & Support Staff

The group will be led by a professional and qualified Nepalese tour leader, assisted by an experienced team including Sherpa guides and porters.

Altitude

This holiday involves going to very high altitude. During the course of your trip you will be spending at least one night above 4000 metres and/or trekking to 5000 metres or above. This is not something that you should worry about; the human body is quite capable of adapting to a very wide range of altitudes, but it is important that we follow some simple rules in order to acclimatise successfully. Before coming on this holiday you should read the advice on trekking at high altitude. Unless you have previous experience of trekking above 4000 metres you should consult one of our trekking experts before embarking on this holiday. On this trip we carry a portable altitude chamber (PAC-bag) and/or bottled oxygen for use in emergencies.

Spending Money

Approximately £250 (or equivalent in US dollars, Euros etc.) should be allowed for miscellaneous expenses including porter and trek crew tips, beer, soft drinks etc. It is not necessary to obtain local currency prior to departure. Sterling, US Dollars and Euros are equally acceptable for exchange in Nepal. Please note: Scottish and Northern Ireland bank notes are not accepted in Nepal. We recommend that you carry your travel money in the form of cash, since you will exchange the majority of this on the day of your arrival in Kathmandu. If you prefer not to carry all of your spending money in cash, it is possible to withdraw money from ATMs in Kathmandu using your debit or credit card. During the trek it is possible to buy snacks, chocolate, soft drinks and beer on most days. Please be aware that since everything has to be carried up, these items become more expensive as you gain altitude.

Guidance on Tipping

Tipping is the accepted way of saying thank you for good service. Normally the porters and any other trek staff are given their tips at the end of the trek and this is best done as a group. Your Nepali tour leader will advise the group on an appropriate level of tipping. Most groups will hand out the tips with a bit of ceremony (or sometimes a party) on the last evening, to mark the end of the holiday. As a guide, we recommend that each group member contributes around £100 (in rupees) to these tips - although the amount you give is entirely up to you. At the end of their trek many people also like to donate various items of equipment to the porters and trek staff who work so hard to make the trip a success. Boots, gloves, hats, scarves and even socks are always warmly received by the porters. Your tour leader will make arrangements for a fair distribution (possibly by raffle) amongst the trek crew. Please note that you will have the opportunity to tip your tour leader separately (and additionally) during dinner on the final evening of the holiday.

Baggage Allowance

Your main item of luggage should be a sturdy kit bag, duffle bag or similar. This will be carried during the trek by porters or pack animals and must weigh no more than 15kg. If you are picking up a sleeping bag and down jacket from KE in Kathmandu, you need to factor in the weight of these items (around 3kg) and allow space in your bag for them. You should also take on your holiday a daypack of approximately 30 litres capacity. For all flights to and from STOL airstrips in Nepal the maximum allowance for hold baggage AND hand baggage combined is 15kg and you should make every effort to keep to this total weight. It is usually not a problem to check in a couple of kg more than this, but you may be required to pay a small excess luggage charge. It is possible to leave items not required on trek at the hotel in Kathmandu. For your international flights, please check the baggage allowance with your airline.

Passport & Visas

The information that we provide is for UK passport holders.

A passport with 6 months remaining validity at the end of your stay is generally required, and you should have at least 2 blank pages for each country that you visit.

For other nationalities, please refer to your own Government website for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the correct travel documents including vaccinations and health certificates (see Health & Vaccinations below), and visas for your holiday. Please ensure that you check the FCDO for the latest advice for each country visited before travel.

Visa Nepal

All nationalities require a visa. The visa process is partly automated and the fee is $30 for 15 days, $50 for 30 days, $125 for 90 days. The visa is FREE for children under 10 years. The visa allows multiple re-entry. Payment must be made in cash and USD, GBP or Euros are accepted.

Part of this on-arrival visa process involves filling in a ‘Tourist Visa Application Form’ and you can simplify the procedure at Kathmandu Airport by filling this form in online (within 15 days of travelling) at this link. This generates a receipt which you present (hard copy or saved on your phone) on arrival. This should allow you to go straight to the cashier to pay for your visa and has the potential to save you time in the visa queue.

Whilst these are not now needed for the visa process, we recommend that you travel with at least 2 spare passport photographs.

Currency

The unit of currency in Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee.

Preparing for your Holiday

It makes a lot of sense to spend some time before coming on a trekking holiday getting some additional exercise. The fitter you are, after all, the more enjoyable you will find the experience. Although the trekking on this trip is not difficult or sustained, hiking at altitude is more demanding than similar terrain at lower elevations. We suggest that you adopt a weekly exercise regime leading up to your trip. Regular hiking in hilly country is the best training but any regular exercise such as cycling, running or swimming is also good for developing cardio vascular fitness and stamina. Before coming on the trip we recommend that you make time for some longer walks in hilly country. It is also a good idea to do some reading about the culture of Nepal and of the Sherpa people who live in the Everest region. There are many books on this subject and some are listed here.

Climate

October through to May is the best time for trekking in Nepal. These months outside of the summer monsoon season offer the best conditions for trekking. Pre-monsoon from March to May is the main climbing season for Everest and at this time there will be many expeditions at basecamp. This is also the time to see the colourful blooms of the rhododendron at lower elevations. The post-monsoon months usually offer the clearest skies and the most settled weather. You will encounter a wide range of daytime temperatures during your holiday. In October/November and April/May this will range from approximately 25C in Kathmandu to approximately 14C at 3000 metres, and approximately 3C at 5000m. From December to early April, temperatures will average around 5C lower than this but at any time of the year the real feel temperature in the middle of the day will be much warmer. At night in the rarefied air the temperatures plummet. You can expect to experience overnight temperatures below freezing once above approximately 4200 metres. (above 3000 metres from mid December to February) and at our highest overnight stops, outside temperatures may drop as low as minus 15C. Extended periods of rain or snow are very unlikely outside of the monsoon period but short-lived storms can and do occur.

Books

Lonely Planet Guide to Nepal. Lonely Planet
Rough Guide to Nepal. Rough Guides
Trekking and Climbing in Nepal. Steve Razzetti
Everest: A Trekkers Guide. Kev Reynolds. Cicerone
Into Thin Air. Jon Krakauer
The Climb. Anatoli Boukreev
The Ascent of Everest. John Hunt & Edmund Hillary
Sherpas & Himalayan Mountaineering. Sherry Ortner
A History of Nepal. John Whelpton
Field Guide to Birds of the Himalayas. Bikram Grewal
Everest the Old Way. John Driskell

Maps

Everest Base Camp. 1: 50,000 Nepa / N.G. Maps

This map which is a collaboration between National Geographic and the long established Nepal publisher, Nepa Maps, is probably the best for this trek showing the trekking route in its entirety from Lukla to Everest Base Camp. Note: All clients will be given a free trekking map in Kathmandu before the start of their trek.

Travel Insurance

It is an essential condition of joining a holiday with KE Adventure Travel that you have a valid travel insurance policy to cover the cost of medical treatment and to protect the value of your holiday in the event of cancellation. When taking out insurance please ensure the policy you choose covers you for the activities and altitude included in your itinerary.

For appropriate insurance cover we recommend Campbell Irvine Direct. Please go to our Travel Insurance page for further information and to get a quote.

Equipment List

The following checklist should help you with your packing. As a general rule, you should always try to keep the weight of your equipment to a minimum. The packed weight of your kit bag while trekking should be no more than 15 kgs.

You must bring the following items:

Hiking boots
Trekking trousers
Waterproof overtrousers
Baselayer shirts
Casual shirt and/or T-shirts
Fleece jacket or warm jumper
Waterproof jacket
Sunhat
Warm hat
Sunglasses
Thermal gloves
Warm and waterproof gloves or mittens
Headtorch and spare batteries
Sun protection (including total bloc for lips, nose etc.)
Water bottles 1 Litre x 2 (we encourage re-filling water bottles rather than single use plastic)
Water purification tablets
Washbag and toiletries
Toilet paper (you can buy this in the lodges)
Antibacterial handwash
Travel towel
Selection of dry bags (to keep your kit bag contents dry)
Small padlock (to lock your kit bag)
Daypack 30 litres
Sleeping bag (comfort rated –10ºC)*
Warm jacket (down)*
Basic First Aid Kit including: antiseptic cream, throat lozenges, diarrhoea treatment (Imodium), painkillers, plasters and blister treatment, insect repellent, and re-hydration salts (Dioralite). Glucose tablets and multi-vitamin tablets are also a good idea.

The following items are optional:

Trekking poles
Trainers or similar for use in the lodges
Shorts
Baselayer leggings
Gaiters
Sleeping bag liner
Pillowcase
Scarf or buff
Swimwear (for the hotel pool in Kathmandu)
Ear plugs (particularly if you are not the one snoring)
Travel clothes
Camera
Pen-knife (remember to pack sharp objects in hold baggage)
Repair kit – (eg. needle, thread, duct tape)
Reusable cloth bag for shopping (to avoid plastic bags)

Notes

*FREE sleeping bag and down jacket hire is included in your KE holiday booking on request.

Please make all requests at least 4 weeks prior to the trip departure date. Please note all hire / rental equipment is issued in Kathmandu. Please remember to allow room in your kit bag for these items.

The Nepalese are still traditional and conservative in the way they dress. Therefore to avoid embarrassment on both sides we recommend that you respect this and do not wear revealing clothing or sleeveless tops while visiting Nepal. Shorts are acceptable, but they should reach to just above the knee and be modest and for women it is preferable to wear trousers or a long skirt.

PHD Gear Advisor

PHD specialise in cold weather equipment, from the world's lightest right up to the most protective for Everest or the Poles. It's a large range. So, to help you choose what you need to keep warm, PHD have listed the gear that is appropriate for this holiday.

Click here: http://www.phdesigns.co.uk/gearadviser/destination.php?destinations_id=17

Extensions

Chitwan Jungle Extension

3 Days

The jungles of southern Nepal are an interesting counterpoint to trekking in the foothills or the high Himalaya. Tiger Tops Tharu Lodge provides a relaxing and comfortable base for a wildlife safari and cultural village experience. During two days of wildlife viewing in the Chitwan National Park 'buffer zone' - the interface area between visitors and the animals that live at Chitwan – you will be accompanied by expert guides on safaris by jeep by boat and on foot.

Extension Code: CHTL

Sharing Price from

US$1,680

Single Traveller Price from

US$2,290

Single Room Supplement from

US$465

Extension Itinerary

Day 1

Show Details

KE extension package services begin with a transfer to Kathmandu airport for the flight to Bharatpur. You are met by a Tiger Tops representative and transfer to the lodge. After a welcome briefing, you head off for the first of your jungle activities which may be by jeep, on foot or by boat. We can enjoy an excellent meal from the Tharu kitchen before retiring.

Meals

L D

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Day 2

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After an early wake-up call you will go out with your guide to catch the birds and animals at the watering hole. After breakfast at the lodge you will go out on safari again. As with yesterday your safaris can be by jeep, on foot or by boat. After a full day of wildlife viewing, you spend your final night at Tharu Lodge.

Meals

B L D

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Day 3

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Depending on your flight time, you may have another opportunity this morning to observe the animals at the watering hole, then after breakfast at the lodge, you transfer to the airport for the flight to Kathmandu where KE extension package services end.

Meals

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Whats Included

Return flights - Kathmandu / Bharatpur / Kathmandu
Kathmandu Airport transfers
Transfers to the lodge on arrival at Bharatpur Airport
2 nights full board accommodation at Tiger Tops Tharu Lodge
Jungle activities including jeep rides / boat rides / nature walks and birdwatching
Airport departure tax
National park buffer zone fee

What's Not Included

Any additional hotel nights required in Kathmandu before or after the extension
Expenses of a personal nature - drinks and souvenirs etc.

Kathmandu Tour - Nagarkot and Bhaktapur

1 Day

The Kathmandu Valley contains the cities of Patan, Bhaktapur and Kathmandu itself, all of which were once independent kingdoms. An exploration of the valley’s historic and cultural sights is an excellent way to begin or end your adventure in Nepal. Highlights of this tour includes a very early drive up to Nagarkot on the Kathmandu Valley rim, the perfect place to watch a Himalayan sunrise. This is followed by a tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bhaktapur, renowned for its temples and traditional buildings.

Extension Code: KTMV

Extension Itinerary

Day 1

Show Details

We have a long morning of sightseeing in the Kathmandu Valley, beginning with a very early start (at around 0430). We drive for approximately 1 hour through the quiet streets to Nargakot on the valley rim to watch the sunrise light up the Himalayas. Dropping back down to the valley, you will then have a guided tour of medieval Bhaktapur before returning to your hotel towards midday.

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Whats Included

Experienced tour guide
Vehicle transport and driver
Entrance fees

What's Not Included

Packed breakfast to be provided. Other meals and drinks are not included

View Dates & Prices

Private Departure?

Gather a few friends, family or club and take over your own departure.

Get in Touch

2026

Sun 8 Nov Mon 23 Nov

US$3,165 per Adult per Adult

US$475

Available

Book Now

More Information

Everest Basecamp Trek - Longbottom
With Flights

Without Flights
Departure Reference: EBLL/01/26/
This trip departs the UK on Sat 7 Nov returning to the UK on Mon 23 Nov

This trip begins on Sun 8 Nov and ends on Mon 23 Nov
This departure is available to book. Secure your place today with a deposit of US$475
Single Supplement Price: US$345
Download Trip Notes

Land Only Information

The LAND ONLY dates and prices are for the itinerary starting at the hotel in Kathmandu. Transfers are provided from/to Kathmandu Airport for all clients arriving on Day 1 of the Land Only itinerary and departing on the last day of the Land Only itinerary.

Trip is Locked

Everest Basecamp Trek - Longbottom

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Everest Basecamp Trek - Longbottom

Highlights

At a Glance

Accommodation & Meals

Overview

Is this holiday for you?

Why KE?

Itinerary

The Route

Essential Information

Everest Base Camp. 1: 50,000 Nepa / N.G. Maps

You must bring the following items:

The following items are optional:

Notes

PHD Gear Advisor

Extensions

Chitwan Jungle Extension

Extension Details

Chitwan Jungle Extension

3 Days

Sharing Price from

US$1,680

Single Traveller Price from

US$2,290

Single Room Supplement from

US$465

Extension Itinerary

Whats Included

What's Not Included

Kathmandu Tour - Nagarkot and Bhaktapur

Extension Details

Kathmandu Tour - Nagarkot and Bhaktapur

1 Day

Extension Itinerary

Whats Included

What's Not Included

DATES & PRICES

2026

More Information

Land Only Information

Flight Inclusive Information

Download Trip Notes

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