Everest Base Camp Trek via Phaplu

Embark, in the lower foothills of the Everest region
  • Duration19 Days
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • Activity Trekking
  • Max. Altitude 5550 meters/ 18209 feet
  • Starts Phaplu
  • Ends Lukla
  • Group Size 1-20
  • Best Season September to November and March to May
Group Discount Prices
  
1 paxUS$1490
2 - 6 paxUS$1290
7 - 12 paxUS$1245
13 - 20 paxUS$1190
Everest Base Camp Trek via Phaplu Highlights
  • Glorious vistas from Lamjura and Taksindu passes. 
  • Serene trekking and better acclimation en route to Lukla. 
  • Wide variety of landscapes, from the lush lowlands to the heights of the base camp at 5,364 meters. 
  • The beauty and charm of Sagarmatha National Park, with its range of flora and fauna that includes iconic Himalayan wildlife such as musk deer, red pandas, and snow leopards.
  • The homelands and culture of the legendary Sherpas.
  • The monasteries of Junbensi and Tengboche.
  • The history of Everest Base Camp and the spectacular 360° of the Mountain range from Kala Patthar.

Phaplu to Everest Base Camp Trek Overview 

The majority of people trekking to Everest Base Camp fly into Lukla for the experience. For those looking to better acclimate to the conditions and build up stamina the preferable alternative is to start from Phaplu.

The trek starts with a bus ride from Kathmandu or a private car/jeep. Although the trail from into Sagarmatha National Park is referred to as the classic route to Everest, the original trailhead began at Kathmandu, what an adventure that must have been! All early Everest expeditions including the Hunt expedition with Tenzing Norgay and Edmund Hillary passed through the same route, hence its reputation as the gateway to the region, giving trekkers taking the route a sense of following in the footsteps of climbing history.  

The hike from Phaplu to Lukla Passes through a region that is blissfully free of the trekking numbers generally associated with the trails further north. The trek commences by heading out to Traksindu pass and climbs steadily to Lamjura Bhanjyang (3,530 meters) before dropping down again to the crossing of Dudh Koshi east of Nunthala. The route encompasses a wide range of scenery and vegetation, from the verdant forests and patchwork of crops and terraced fields in the lowlands to passes such as Taksindu LaLamjura Pass (3,530 meters), and Khari La (3,145 meters) all of which help to steadily build up conditioning and stamina for the trials ahead. By the time the trail leads into Lukla trekkers taking the Jiri option should be in fine fettle to tackle the main trailhead and better acclimated for the higher sections of the journey.

The trek then heads into Sagarmatha National Park and on towards Namche, where the landscapes take on a more dramatic turn as the towering presence of Everest and Lhotse take on more significance with each passing day, with surrounding peaks such as Nuptse, Kangtega, and the ever-impressive Amadablam adding their own touch to the stunning panorama. We call in at Tengboche monastery along the way, the obligatory stopping point for many a famous expedition seeking the blessing of the lama before taking on the perilous slopes of the world's highest peak. Everest Base Camp (5,364 meters) finally greets us with the breathtaking climb to its perch below the famous mountain, with the stunning views from Kala Patthar nearby to add even more wonder to the experience.

Trekking in the region is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many visitors, with Everest as the chief goal thanks to its dramatic scenery, the famed Sherpas and their deeply rooted Buddhist beliefs, and the experience of walking through a timeless land that's a living museum to Himalayan climbing, with Everest itself as the jewel of the exhibits.

Let Nepal Trekking Experts be the ones to guide you via the Jiri route, with options such as the challenging Everest Three Passes or the Gokyo Valley Trek available to further extend the adventure. Our staff are ready and waiting to discuss the variations, so please feel free to get in touch for further information.

Phaplu to Everest Adventure Trek Difficulty

The Phaplu to Everest Adventure Trek is a challenging journey as compared to the classic EBC route starting from Lukla, this trek begins at a lower altitude in Phaplu, requiring longer days of walking and covering varied terrains. As you start trekking from Phaplu, it adds an extra 5-7 days to the trek, making the total duration approximately 18-21 days. Hence, you will be covering additional 60 to 70 kilometers and you will trek for an average of 6 to 8 hours each day. Although starting from a lower altitude (Phaplu at 2,413 meters) allows for gradual acclimatization, the trek still involves significant altitude gains, reaching the Everest Base Camp at 5,364 meters. Additionally, this trek takes you through rugged trails, dense forests, suspension bridges, traditional villages, and high-altitude landscapes.

Best Time For Phaplu to Everest Himalayan Trek

Spring, from March to May and Autum, from September to November are the best seasons for the Phaplu to Everest Himalayan Trek. During Spring, the weather is generally warm and sunny, with temperatures in lower regions like Phaplu ranging from 10°C to 20°C. At higher altitudes near Base Camp, daytime temperatures hover around -6°C to 5°C.Furthermore, the skies are typically clear, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks, lush valleys, and rhododendron forests in full bloom along the trail from Phaplu. Moving on to Autumn, the weather is calm with pleasant daytime temperatures in the lower regions (10°C to 18°C) and chilly but tolerable conditions at higher altitudes. At this time of the year, you will get to witness unobstructed views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and other iconic peaks. The villages along the route are lively with activity as it’s a popular trekking season.

Phaplu to Everest Trekking Permits

When trekking with Nepal Trekking Experts, the permit fees are included in your package. Your guide will require your passport to obtain the required permits on your behalf.

  • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit: The local government of Khumbu charges NPR 2,000 per person, which must be paid in person in Lukla; this permit is not available in Kathmandu.
  • Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit: This permit can be obtained in Kathmandu at the Nepal Tourism Board Office or in Monjo at the Park Entrance Gate. It costs NPR 3,000 per person.

How can I book EBC Trek from Phaplu?

To book your trek with us, you have to send a deposit of 10% of the total cost of the trek. Please also forward a copy of your passport, and flight details if and when available. For your convenience, you may forward the deposit to us online through our website. It is completely safe, and as soon as you make it, you will get an automatic receipt in your inbox. The rest of the payment can be paid upon arrival.

For more details, do not hesitate to contact our experts now.

Useful Information

Tips For A Successful Phaplu Everest Base Camp Adventure

  • Kindly take permission while taking photos of locals. 
  • Respect the local culture. 
  • Take a wall side or safe side while passing donkeys or yak on the way. 
  • Better to avoid alcohol or smoke above 3,000 meters.
  • Drink more than 3 liter of water per day.
  • Be aware of altitude symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, headache, and shortness of breath. 
  • Hike slowly and steadily.
  • Pack high-quality proper gear. 

Accommodation During The Lower Everest Region to Base Camp Trek

Tea house hotels are plentiful within the infamous Everest Region of Nepal, with a range of quality available to you depending on your preference and needs. At lower elevations, you can choose more fully equipped tea houses with electricity, wifi, and en suite bathrooms with hot showers and western toilets. There are also more rustic, basic tea houses available, especially at higher elevations, that have simple rooms and basic services. Bathrooms might be shared and have a squat-style toilet. At these tea houses, you can pay a small fee for services such as wifi and hot showers. We provide you with a clean, -20°C sleeping bag to keep you cozy and warm.

Food During The Phaplu to Everest Adventure Trek

Food in the Everest Region of Nepal is delicious and plentiful. Along the well-loved and well-traveled route to Everest Base Camp, there are many tea houses offering a range of options to suit your preferences.

  • Breakfast - You can enjoy local chapati bread or Tibetan bread with curry or go for more familiar eggs, porridge, muesli, or pancakes. This trek is vegetarian and vegan-friendly, but if you have any other dietary restrictions, you can let us know, and your guide will communicate with the kitchen staff.
  • Lunch & Dinner - You can choose from a variety of local dishes, including Dal Bhat (rice, vegetable curry, and lentil soup with unlimited refills!), fried rice or noodles, Mo Mo (local dumplings), Thukpa (Tibetan noodle soup), spring rolls, or western dishes like burgers, pasta, pizza, and potatoes.

Your package with Nepal Trekking Experts includes dinner in Kathmandu before you leave for your trek and three meals a day (with tea or coffee) every day of the trek, including travel days. If you'd like, you can purchase extra snacks, desserts, or fancy coffees when they're available.

Transportation To Everest Base Camp Trek Without Flight

Transportation to the Everest Base Camp Overland Route offers an alternative to the more common flight to Lukla, adding a unique perspective and experience to your journey. Phaplu is a small town in the Solu region, serving as a starting point for trekkers who prefer to avoid the sometimes unpredictable and challenging flight to Lukla. To reach Phaplu, you can take a long drive from Kathmandu. Regular public buses and private jeeps are available, with the journey taking approximately 8-10 hours, depending on road conditions. Since the local bus ride can be more congested and difficult, you can also opt for the private jeeep ride. Hiring a private jeep is a more comfortable and quicker option but comes at a higher cost. For the return journey, most trekkers opt to retrace their steps back to Phaplu and take the same road to Kathmandu. Alternatively, you can continue the trek towards Lukla and fly back to Kathmandu, blending both experiences into your adventure.

Telephone Service, Internet, And Battery Charging During The Trek To Everest Region Via Phaplu

Telephone Service

Most tea houses have phone service and mobile reception; however, due to the nature of being in the mountains, it can be unpredictable. If you would like, you can purchase a data SIM card in Kathmandu before you depart. NCELL is a recommended provider that offers 3G internet services in the Everest region.

Internet

Many tea houses have wifi to purchase for around 3 dollars per day which is paid in local Nepali rupees. Please be aware that internet services may not be completely reliable due to weather and other issues.

Battery Charging

Despite trekking deep into the Himalayas, most of the tea houses have either electricity or solar power. Depending on the tea house, you might be able to charge your devices in your rooms. Otherwise, you can pay a few dollars (paid in local rupees) to charge your battery in the main dining hall. Carrying a power bank is recommended during your trek in the Everest region.

Porter

Our tailor-made packages do not include a porter, so you can make the decision based on your own needs and preferences. Although not necessary, having a porter can make a massive difference in the enjoyment of your trek. If you are new to trekking at high altitudes, then we would recommend having a porter in the Everest region carry your bag. One porter carries the bags of two people (around 20kg) so that you can carry a small daypack. If you are undecided, we would be happy to discuss porters in more detail when you arrive in Kathmandu.

Phaplu to Everest Trekking Packing List

Here’s a comprehensive packing list for the Phaplu to Everest Trek to ensure you are well-prepared for varying climates and conditions:

Clothing:

  • Moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms (2-3 sets)
  • Lightweight, quick-drying shirts (3-4 pieces)
  • Comfortable and durable trekking pants (2-3 pairs)
  • Fleece or down jacket
  • Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants
  • Quick-drying and breathable underwear (4-5 pairs)
  • Thermal gloves
  • Woolen hat, sun hat, and a buff or scarf

Footwear:

  • Comfortable, waterproof, and broken-in boots with good ankle support
  • Lightweight sandals or sneakers
  • Woolen trekking socks (4-5 pairs)

Gear And Other Equipment:

  • Backpack (20-30L capacity)
  • Rain cover
  • Sleeping bag (rated for -10°C to -20°C)
  • Adjustable and sturdy trekking poles
  • Headlamp with extra batteries
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Water purification tablet or filter
  • Snacks (high-energy bars, nuts, and dried fruits)
  • First aid kit
  • Personal toiletries (soap, toothpaste, toothbrush, and a quick-dry towel)
  • Camera
  • Power bank
  • Adapter
  • Charger
  • Wet wipes
  • Sunscreen and lip balm with high SPF
  • Sun glasses

Travel Insurance:

This trek to Everest region via Phaplu involves high-altitude trekking, remote trails, and unpredictable weather, making comprehensive travel insurance crucial for your safety and peace of mind. Your travel insurance should cover high-altitude trekking, as the route via Phaplu reaches elevations above 5,000 meters at Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar. It is also essential to ensure that the policy includes emergency medical expenses, helicopter evacuation, and repatriation in case of altitude sickness, injuries, or other emergencies. While buying an insurance plan, make sure that it covers altitudes of at least 6,000 meters, any medical coverage, and trip cancellations, delays, or interruptions. Additionally, do not forget for the theft or loss of personal belongings. Lastly, always read the fine print of your policy and consult with your insurance provider to confirm that it meets the specific requirements of your trek.

Nepalese Currency and Payment:

The currency of Nepal is the rupee. The ideal currencies for exchange are those of the USA, Australia, Great Britain, Canada, and Singapore, as well as the Euro, any of which can be readily exchanged in either Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Credit and debit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are accepted in major tourist-class hotels, restaurants, airlines, and larger stores in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Patan, Pokhara, etc. A surcharge of 3.5% is typically levied on all purchases or payments.

ATMs are also very common in Kathmandu and Pokhara, with Thamel being a particular area of focus for their use. Some ATMs only allow a daily maximum of Rs 10, 000 to be withdrawn, while others allow for as much as Rs 35, 000. A charge of USD $4 is usually applied per transaction, on top of which your own bank may also apply a fee of its own.

Can I get an on-arrival visa in Nepal?

On arrival in Nepal, you can obtain the requisite visa at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu, or you can choose the alternative of applying for it at the Nepalese Embassy or Consulate in your home country before departure. The visa is also available at land-based points of entry such as Birgunj, Kakarbhitta, Bhairawa, Belhiya, Nepalgunj, Dhangadi, and Mahendranagar. The Kodari Pass is the access point from Tibet where the visa can be obtained.

While you can use different modes of payment at the visa fee counter, we advise you to bring cash in the following currencies: US dollars, euros, Swiss francs, pound sterling, Australian dollars, Canadian dollars, Hong Kong dollars, Singapore dollars, and Japanese yen. Credit card payments are also available nowadays.

As per a recent update, the visa fee costs you the following amounts:

  • Multiple entries for 15 days—USD 30 or equivalent
  • Multiple entries for 30 days—USD 50 or equivalent
  • Multiple entries for 90 days—USD 125 or equivalent
  • You should also have a minimum of six months of validity remaining on your passport.
  • Visa extensions are available from the offices of Nepal Immigration in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

For more details, please go through the Nepal Immigration website or contact us.

Itinerary
  • Max. Altitude:1400m/4593ft.
  • Accommodation:3 star hotel

Welcome at the airport and transfer to your hotel. An introduction to your trekking program then the rest of the day at your leisure to enjoy the sights, sounds, and culture of Kathmandu.

  • Max. Altitude:1400m/4593ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Accommodation:3 star hotel

Free day for final trekking preparation.

  • Max. Altitude:2469m/8100ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Our journey begins with the long drive to Phaplu, the traditional starting point for treks into the Khumbu region in years gone by.  From Phaplu we hit the trail for a brief hike through the forest and along a series of stone steps to Nunthala, our first rest top on the trek, imagining along the way what it must have been like for the first post-war expeditions using the route.

  • Max. Altitude:2345m/7694ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

We cross the Ringmu village to start the day, then climb onwards and up through a scenic landscape that gives us our first real taste of the Himalayan experience before us, including the classic trekking peak of Mera relatively close at hand. The path continues at the pass of Trakshindu La, with a serenely sited monastery nearby, before descending a tree-lined pathway to the village of Nunthala.

  • Max. Altitude:2194m/7198ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

After crossing the suspension bridge over the Dudh Koshi River the trail leads on through forested slopes and Sherpa outposts until we reach Khari Khola via a suspension bridge and rest there for the night.

  • Max. Altitude:2890m/9482ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

A challenging hike today leads us away from Khari Khola and along an undulating trail through the picturesque valley that gradually eases us up toward the village of Puiyan.

  • Max. Altitude:2610m/8563ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

The day's journey begins with a hike to Chaurikharka, our meeting point with the main trail towards the Everest region from Lukla. Our advantage from all the others making their way along the trail is that we will have given our bodies ample opportunity to acclimate to the altitude and maximize our chances of making it to Everest Base Camp without any issues.

  • Max. Altitude:3440m/11286ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Our day starts by following the Dudh Koshi River and crossing over the Edmund Hillary suspension bridge, then heading towards Sagarmatha National Park and the checkpoint at Monjo. The path ascends markedly until it eventually leads us into Namche Bazaar, the regional capital of the Sherpa district.

  • Max. Altitude:3440m/11286ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

A rest day to allow the body to acclimate to the high altitude conditions. Namche is perfect for the situation, as there's plenty to do in the scenic town including visiting Khunde Hospital, the local medical facility set up through Edmund Hillary's charitable work in the area, taking in the panoramas from Everest View Hotel, visiting the Sherpa Cultural Museum, or hiking up to Khumjung Valley and its monastery, complete with the display of its famous Yeti scalp.

  • Max. Altitude:3870m/12697ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

The trail leads away from Namche Bazaar through a series of small villages and a suspension bridge en route to Phunki Tenga and then climbs through a series of switchbacks and dense rhododendron forests to Tengboche. The village is famous for its monastery, the largest in the Khumbu region, and justly known for its long association with mountaineering expeditions to the area.

  • Max. Altitude:4410m/14469ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

The day begins by descending gradually through more woodland until we cross another suspension bridge and climb steadily towards Pangboche and Sumare, the formidable presence of Amadablam keeping us company all the way. Mani walls and a monastery greet our arrival in Dingboche, Lhotse, Island Peak, and other mountains adding their stunning profiles to the view.

  • Max. Altitude:4410m/14469ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Another mandatory rest day, with hikes to Chhukung Ri, Nangar Dzong, or Dolma Ri providing ample opportunities to bask in the glorious panoramas of each viewpoint.

  • Max. Altitude:4940m/16207ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

With plenty of rest from the previous day, our bodies are fully prepared for the next stretch towards Thugla, where we pass numerous cairns and monuments dedicated to the many Sherpas and climbers who have perished on Everest's slopes.  Further along on the trail through the barren terrain, we come to Khumbu glacier at the foot of the famous mountain and marvel at the terrible beauty and chaos of the inexorable mass of ice. The day finishes up with our arrival at the jumble of buildings that make up the remote human outpost of Lobuche.

  • Max. Altitude:5164m/16942ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Our trek reaches its climax today with the much-anticipated arrival at Everest Base Camp, truly one of the most memorable experiences in Nepal. The morning is spent traversing Khumbu Glacier and heading to Gorak Shep, where we typically pause for a well-deserved meal and the extraordinary views before heading out again for the journey's reward, our arrival at the historic base camp, temporary home through the decades to some of the most legendary figures in the annals of mountaineering. After pausing to drink in the astonishing spectacle, and perhaps view the latest expeditions mounting their challenge, we reluctantly turn around and make our way back to Gorak Shep for our night's rest.

  • Max. Altitude:4280m/14042ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Everest may not be within our reach but Kala Patthar is on hand to give added meaning to the visit via unmatched views of the entire Khumbu basin and a sense of accomplishment in scaling the peak. After returning for breakfast and retrieving our trekking gear we hit the trail once more for the pronounced descent to Pheriche.

  • Max. Altitude:3440m/11286ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Though the trail is a familiar one the hike to Namche Bazaar provides a different perspective on the scenery, as well as the more relaxed journey that comes from a gradual descent.

  • Max. Altitude:2860m/9383ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Our final day on the trail, easing back to Lukla along the Dudhi Koshi and its suspension bridges. Once at Lukla we can finally throw off our backpacks, take a relaxing shower, and sit back to savor the heady accomplishment of making it to the foot of Everest.

  • Max. Altitude:1400m/4593ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast

After breakfast we take a flight to Kathmandu where you'll have enough time to savor the city's treasure's one last time before getting together for a farewell dinner with friends before departure.

    Farewell and drop-off at the airport, or the opportunity to join another of our programs.

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    Note

    The above itinerary is just a guideline. If you are not satisfied, please feel free to customize your own.

    What's Included
    Cost Includes
    • Complimentary airport pick-up and drop-off
    • Complimentary welcome dinner
    • Two-night stay on arrival in Kathmandu with breakfast included.
    • all necessary trekking permits, TIMS cards, etc.
    • All accommodations during the trek
    • Three meals a day during the trek
    • A cup of tea or coffee with the meal
    • Fresh fruit each day, if and when available
    • complimentary duffel bag
    • government-registered, first-aid-trained professional local guide who speaks English
    • First-aid kit
    • Flight from Lukla to Kathmandu
    • Staff insurance, meals, accommodation, equipment, transportation, etc.
    • Rescue arrangements, if necessary
    • Agency service charge and government tax (VAT)
    • Certificate of achievement
    Cost Excludes
    • International airfare and Nepal visa fee
    • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
    • Porters to carry your backpacks (we provide porters on request)
    • Personal insurance, personal expenses, loss of property, theft, etc.
    • Sightseeing costs in the city (temples, monasteries, etc.)
    • All beverages, snacks, and additional expenses such as laundry, hot showers, battery charging, wifi, etc.
    • Tip to staff
    Dates & Availability
    Start:SaturdayJan 18, 2025
    End:WednesdayFeb 05, 2025
    PriceUS$1490
    StatusGuaranteed

    Note

    Are you satisfied with the fixed departure dates? If not, do not worry! We are more than happy to organize private vs. group joining on any dates you prefer. Let's contact the local experts now.

    Photos & Videos
    FAQs for Everest Base Camp Trek via Phaplu
    • Kala Patthar Is 5550 meters/ 18209 feet.

    • The elevation of Everest Base Camp is 5364 meters/ 17598 feet.

    • You can expect a maximum of 15-20°C for the first couple of days and a minimum of -10 to -15°C during the night in higher altitudes.

    • The best time for Phaplu to Everest Trekking is September to November and March to May.

    • The Phaplu to Everest Adventure Trek is considered strenuous trekking in Nepal since we are walking for many days in high altitudes.

    • The Everest Base Camp Overland Route covers 150 km / 93 miles that takes around 17 to 20 days to complete. 

    • The Everest Base Camp Trek from Lower Solukhumbu costs 1100 -1500 USD per person. It depends on the number of days, group size, and the service you want to include in the package.

    • Yes, you can do the Phaplu to Everest Himalayan Trek solo but always better to go with one local for your safety and local information.

    • The Everest Base Camp Overland Route is in the Solu Khumbu District of Nepal. It starts from the lower area of Khumbu.

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