Ever wondered what it would be like at Everest Base Camp? Here is a sneak preview from local Pema Yangzom Sherpa
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Nepal is a country blessed with an abundance of natural resources. The diverse culture, architectural buildings, ancient caves, and palaces have been an attention grabber for many travellers, but the most highlighted region of Nepal is definitely the Everest Region.
The Everest Base Camp Trek south side – north side of Everest Base Camp is in China – is one of the most popular treks in Nepal, starting from Lukla all the way, passing by notable landmarks, checkpoints, and viewpoints, and then to the ultimate destination Everest Base Camp.
A 30-minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla starts the beginning of an epic journey.
How high is Everest Base Camp?
Everest base camp, in the Himalayas, is located 17,598 feet (5,364m) high and is probably the second highest point just short of the impressive heights of Kilimanjaro.
Hike up to Kala Patthar
In the morning, you can hike up to the most notable hiking point located in Nepal. Kala Patthar is a popular viewpoint that is located 3-4 hours from Gorakshep.
En route to the Everest Base Camp, you can take a morning hike to Kala Patthar. It is one of the most famous viewpoints at 5600m, and visitors yearn to witness the sunrise beaming on the spectacular peak of Mount Everest every morning.
After 3-4 hours of hiking, you can reach the top of the viewpoint and be in awe of the surrounding peaks. The most impressive views of Mount Everest can be seen from the top. The 360-degree views of the high peaks of Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Pumori can also be seen perfectly.
Explore the Everest Base Camp
After enjoying the hike to Kala Patthar, you can pack your bags and set off to the Everest Base Camp. From Gorakshep, it will take upto 3-4 hours to reach the Everest Base Camp. The trails are covered with rocks and rugged terrains.
There are different campsites, enthusiastic summiteers training on the slopes, and glaciers on the base camp. From the camp, you’ll be able to see the beautiful views of the snowy peaks, glaciers, and numerous camps. Take a stroll around the camps, click pictures, and embrace the moment.
Enjoy some local Tongba
When in the land of Sherpas, do like the Sherpas do. After the hike to the Everest Base Camp, a celebration of the accomplishment is a must! And there, you can celebrate with the Sherpas by drinking the local drink- Tongba.
Tongba is a millet alcoholic beverage, and it is a traditional drink of the Limbus (an ethnic group of Nepal). The drink is popular in the regions of Nepal, Darjeeling, and also Sikkim. The drink is used in festivals, religious ceremonies and also offered to guests as a sign of respect.
You can order Tongba at the local guesthouse, heat up your body, and enjoy it with your guide and fellow trekkers. The cost of Tongba is around Rs 600- Rs 700.
Try some Sherpa cuisines
After enjoying Thongba, you can order some hot Rildok for dinner. Rildok is a traditional Sherpa dish usually made for dinner and also for breakfast.
The dish is prepared by smashing boiled potatoes with local butter and salt. The dough is then made into small balls and dipped into a hot soup. The food tastes delicious, and it is heavily nutritious and filling.
Interact with the local Sherpas
Be it in the guesthouses or en route, you are going to bump into the local Sherpa villager on the trek. Sherpas are one of the ethnic groups of Nepal. They follow Buddhism, belong to extended families, and are excellent in the fields of trekking and mountaineering.
Thousands of trekkers and climbers trek to Everest Base Camp every year. As per the statistics, in 2023, around 600 people summited Mt Everest, with 350 Sherpas supporting 250 clients. On the trek, you can interact with them and learn about their culture, traditions, and lifestyles.
Helicopter Tour
In the morning, hop on a helicopter ride to Lukla and add more thrill to your adventure.
Hire a helicopter from Everest Base Camp or Gorakshep. The ride to Lukla takes from 10-15. On the way, you will see stunning views of the Khumbu Glaciers, landscapes, and also the highest peaks of Nepal.
Package Tour
Is your interest piqued? G Adventures offers a 15-day Everest Base Camp Tour from Kathmandu to Kathmandu.
Prices from €1,012 per person.
