Everest Base Camp Trek in eastern Nepal is one of the most spectacular and iconic hikes of all, with trekkers from all points of the compass gravitating towards the natural allure and legend of the world's highest (8848 m) and most famous peak. It's an experience that encompasses more than just mountains, as the trek offers a golden opportunity to observe the region's mix of classic Tibetan and Sherpa cultures, a host of regional dialects, and the deeply devoted Buddhist beliefs of the region. Throw in a slew of waterfalls and perfect scenery, abundant wildlife, Khumbu Glacier, and of course the majestic presences of Everest and Lhotse, and you have the makings of one of the most remarkable treks in the country.
Synonymous with the name of Everest — other than Hillary of course — has always been the name of the people most closely associated with the mountain and its conquest, the Sherpas, a hardy people of cheery disposition, resolute manner, and boundless reserves of energy, with a capacity for carrying stunning loads up the steep and hazardous slopes that frequently amazes visiting climbers. Starting with the most famous of all, Tenzing Norgay, they have gradually shifted from basic support roles on climbing expeditions through the years to a complete mastery of the mountains, with some like Kami Rita Sherpa assuming iconic status within the country in recognition of climbing Everest over twenty times.
The Everest Base Camp Trek's ultimate goal isn't just about the imposing presence of Everest and Lhotse though, as the area hosts an amphitheater of impressive mountains that include popular climbing peaks such as the extraordinary Amadablam, as well as the trekking peaks of Lobuche East, Lobuche West, and Island Peak. Encompassing virtually all of the area is the UNESCO-listed Sagarmatha National Park, one of the most remarkable wilderness areas in the world with its mixture of soaring peaks, glaciers, rivers, and forests, as well as being home to a wide variety of flora and fauna that includes black bear, musk deer, snow leopard, and red pandas. Most impressive of all perhaps is that over two-thirds of the park's area of 1148 square kilometers lies at an altitude of 5000 meters or higher, a truly astonishing fact.
Within the park's boundaries also lies one of Nepal's most famous monasteries of all, Tengboche, renowned as the destination of all climbers to the region since the days of Hillary, with each expedition seeking the protective blessing of the Lama before moving on to attempt a climb. Our trek through the area allows plenty of scope to pay the monastery a rewarding visit.
So, if you're looking for an adventure that includes beholding the roof of the world, taking in the scenic and natural wonders of one of the great national parks, and basking in the rich and gentle culture of the local inhabitants, get in touch with our staff and let Nepal Trekking Experts organize your visit to Everest Base Camp Trek.