Trekking to Everest Base Camp (EBC) is one of the most rewarding adventures in the world, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas, rich Sherpa culture, and the experience of walking in the footsteps of legendary mountaineers.
While the standard route is the most popular way to reach EBC, several other routes offer unique landscapes, fewer crowds, and different challenges.
The best route depends on factors like trekking experience, fitness level, available time, and personal preferences. Here are the main routes to Everest Base Camp, each with its own distinct features.
1. Standard Everest Base Camp Route
The standard EBC Trek route is the most popular and well-trodden path, starting with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. From Lukla, the trek follows a gradual ascent through Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, and Gorakshep before finally reaching Everest Base Camp. Most trekkers also hike to Kala Patthar for the best panoramic views of Everest and surrounding peaks.
This route is moderate to challenging, mainly due to the high altitude rather than technical difficulty. It takes about 12 to 14 days round trip, including acclimatization days. The scenery includes lush forests, suspension bridges, monasteries, and stunning views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and Lhotse.
The best time to trek is in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is stable. The main downside is that this route is the most crowded, especially in peak seasons. However, it has well-established teahouses, making food and accommodation easily available.
2. Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes Route
The Gokyo Lakes route offers an alternative and more scenic way to reach Everest Base Camp by passing through the stunning turquoise lakes of Gokyo. This trek follows the standard trail up to Namche Bazaar but then diverts towards Dole, Machhermo, and Gokyo before crossing the Cho La Pass (5,420m) to rejoin the main EBC trail at Lobuche.
This Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes is more challenging than the standard route due to the high-altitude pass crossing, but it offers a less crowded and more scenic experience. The trek takes about 15 to 17 days, making it slightly longer than the standard trek.
Trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking views of Gokyo Ri, Everest, and the vast Ngozumpa Glacier. The best time to trek is in spring and autumn, as winter and monsoon can make the Cho La Pass dangerous. The main advantage is the diverse scenery, but the pass crossing can be difficult in bad weather.
3. Everest Three Passes Trek
The Three Passes Trek is the most challenging and adventurous way to reach Everest Base Camp, crossing Renjo La (5,360m), Cho La (5,420m), and Kongma La (5,535m). It follows the same route as the Gokyo trek but continues through the most remote and less-explored sections of the Khumbu region before connecting to the main EBC trail.
This trek is considered very difficult due to the multiple high passes, making it suitable for experienced trekkers. It takes 18 to 21 days and offers some of the best views in the Everest region, including Everest, Cho Oyu, Makalu, and Lhotse.
The major advantage is that it provides a complete Everest trekking experience with stunning landscapes and fewer crowds. However, the downside is that it is physically demanding, requiring strong acclimatization and endurance. The best time for this trek is spring and autumn, as the passes can be dangerous in winter and monsoon.
4. Jiri to Everest Base Camp Route
The Jiri to EBC route is the classic trail used by early mountaineers before the Lukla airport was built. This trek begins with a long drive to Jiri and follows a lower-altitude path through villages like Bhandar, Junbesi, and Phakding before joining the standard EBC trail at Namche Bazaar.
This route is long and physically demanding, taking 20 to 24 days to complete. It offers a more authentic trekking experience, with fewer crowds and better acclimatization since trekkers gradually ascend to higher altitudes.
The scenery includes beautiful terraced farms, dense forests, and traditional Sherpa villages. The biggest downside is the extra time required and the challenging ups and downs before reaching Namche.
However, for those who enjoy solitude and cultural immersion, this route is an excellent choice. The best time for this trek is spring and autumn, when the trails are dry and the weather is pleasant.
5. Everest Base Camp with Helicopter Return
For trekkers who want to reach Everest Base Camp but don’t want to hike back, the helicopter return option is an excellent alternative. This trek follows the standard EBC route up to Gorakshep, where trekkers then take a scenic helicopter flight back to Lukla or even directly to Kathmandu.
This route takes about 9 to 12 days, making it ideal for those with limited time. It is moderately difficult, with a steady ascent to EBC. The main advantage is that trekkers can enjoy the full trekking experience without retracing their steps.
The helicopter flight offers stunning aerial views of Everest and the Khumbu Glacier, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience. However, this option is more expensive due to the cost of the helicopter flight. The best time for this trek is autumn and spring, when the skies are clear for scenic flights.
6. Phaplu to Everest Base Camp Route
The Phaplu route is an alternative to flying into Lukla, starting with a drive to Phaplu and trekking through villages like Nunthala and Kharikhola before joining the standard trail near Lukla.
This trek takes about 16 to 18 days and is moderate in difficulty, with long daily walks before reaching the standard EBC route. The advantage is that it avoids the unpredictability of Lukla flights, which are often delayed due to weather.
It also offers a more gradual ascent, helping with acclimatization. The downside is that it adds extra trekking days before reaching Namche. This route is best in spring and autumn, when the lower trails are dry and clear.
Which Everest Base Camp Route Is Best for You?
The best route depends on your time, experience, and trekking goals. If you want the fastest and most straightforward trek, the standard route is the best option. For more scenic and less crowded experiences, the Gokyo Lakes or Three Passes Trek are excellent choices.
If you prefer a longer, cultural journey, the Jiri or Phaplu route offers a more immersive experience. For those who want a comfortable and time-saving option, the helicopter return trek is a great alternative.
No matter which route you choose, trekking to Everest Base Camp is an unforgettable adventure that offers breathtaking views, rich Sherpa culture, and the incredible experience of standing at the base of the world’s highest mountain.
