It’s a dream for many adventurers to trek to Everest Base Camp (EBC), and the good news is, there’s more than one way to do it. Though the classic Susan route from Lukla is the most popular, a couple of alternative routes provide different experiences, from quieter trails and cultural dirt to challenging alpine detours. The best route for you depends on your goals and your schedule, fitness level, and appetite for adventure.
The standard EBC (Everest Base Camp) trek is a 12-day round-trip trek with a flight to Lukla. This is the most popular and well-trodden route, with abundant teahouses, guides, and fellow trekkers en route. Before Base Camp, you will pass through Namche Bazaar, Tengboche Monastery, Dingboche, and Gorak Shep. It’s picturesque, expedient, and especially suited for those in a hurry, requiring, typically, 12 to 14 days all told, including acclimatization and travel.
Everest Base Camp Trek Cost. For those seeking to avoid the Lukla flight, the route from Jiri to Everest Base Camp is a classic, old-school option. It treks the original path taken by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay. Beginning in Jiri, you’ll trek through lower-altitude villages, forests, and hills, then catch up with the main trail at Namche. It takes an additional 5–7 days on the itinerary, but provides a more gradual acclimatization and more cultural experience.
The Gokyo Lakes & Cho La Pass route is ideal for adventurers with adventure-seeking trekkers looking to escape the crowds. This route branches off the main trail beyond Namche Bazaar to the stunning turquoise lakes of Gokyo, then crosses the high-altitude Cho La Pass (5,420m) to join the EBC trail again at Lobuche. It’s more physically challenging and a bit more experience-based in terms of needing to have some familiarity with snow and altitude, but the views are arguably more spectacular, including panoramic vistas from Gokyo Ri and Kala Patthar.
For seasoned trekkers wanting a serious challenge, the Three Passes Trek is the toughest route in the Everest region. This route incorporates three high passes—Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,360m)—and packs in all the Khumbu highlights: Gokyo Lakes, Everest Base Camp, wilderness valleys, and fewer walkers. It usually takes 18–21 days and is most suitable for climbers in excellent shape, with a solid acclimatization history and a spirit of discovery.
Or, if you are time-limited or want a shorter version of the experience, you can fly back from Gorak Shep by helicopter after visiting Base Camp or Kala Patthar. It reduces the time on the return trek and gives unforgettable aerial views of the Himalayas, though it’s pricier.
Trek to Base Camp Mount Everest. Whichever route you take, they each have their kind of magic. Whether it is the classic social trail, a path through remote mountain passes, cultural grit, or something quiet and way off the beaten path, there is a way to make your Everest Base Camp trek uniquely yours. Spending time to think about your fitness, goals, and schedule, and to select the options that best match your adventure style.
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Introduction: Which Way to Everest Base Camp?
Trekking to Everest Base Camp (EBC) is indeed one of the most iconic walks in the world, with Mount Everest as the ultimate destination. But did you know that there are multiple ways to get there? Picking your path is an essential first step in ensuring your journey is both fruitful and unforgettable. Each trail offers its own experience — from the busy classic route to remote and rugged alternatives that pass through pristine villages and high alpine passes. Whether you’re aiming to save time, avoid crowds, or seek a more challenging and interesting experience, the path that you take will determine your entire journey. Some routes are best for first-time trekkers; others are meant for experienced hikers who have acclimated to high altitude. All of these factors — your fitness level, interest in culture, tolerance for crowds, and needs for acclimatization — should be weighed in making your decision. Some trails provide a gentle rise in elevation for adjusting to altitude more easily, while others lead on long, meandering detours with mind-blowing views. In this guide, we’ll dissect the most recommended and rewarding trekking routes to Everest Base Camp so you can figure out which one aligns best with your adventure goals.
Everest Base Camp Trek – Classic (via Lukla)
The classic Everest Base Camp trek via Lukla is the most popular option — and with good reason. Beginning with a short flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, this trail leads trekkers deep into the Khumbu region, rich in Sherpa culture, ancient monasteries, and some of the most breathtaking mountain sights on the planet. The trail then winds up through classic villages like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, and Lobuche and reaches Gorak Shep and Everest Base Camp itself at 5,364 meters. Most itineraries are between 12 and 14 days with incorporated acclimatization stops to allow the body to adjust to the altitude. With teahouses lining the route, it’s common for first-time trekkers to tackle the region with the right amount of planning and pace. In the process, you’ll come across spectacular views of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and — naturally — Everest, especially from the famed viewpoint at Kala Patthar. Though it can feel crowded during peak seasons, it’s a dependable, scenic, and culturally rich experience. This route is ideal for climbers looking for the traditional Everest experience with lots of logistical support and relatively simple terrain, though altitude and weather still turn it into a serious undertaking that requires its preparation and respect for the terrain.
Trek from Jiri to Everest Base Camp
The Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek is a scenic and less-trafficked alternative for trekkers looking to experience a quieter, more authentic journey. Known as the “classic route,” this was the original route taken by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay during their first ascent of Everest. Beginning with an overland trip from Kathmandu to Jiri, this trek follows a longer, lower-altitude route that meanders through verdant hills, terraced pastures, and rustic villages before eventually linking up with the core EBC trail at Namche Bazaar. This path takes an additional 5-7 days, so overall your trek will last around 20 days. The thing that makes this route unique is the gradual gain in altitude, which gives your body more time to acclimatize naturally. It is also a more cultural experience, since you’ll be passing through areas relatively untouched by tourism, where many locals still live traditional lifestyles. But this is a more demanding trek, with much upward and downward movement along the way. If you have a little extra time to spare, enjoy the concept of remote travelling, and would like to ‘follow in the footsteps’ of Everest pioneers, the Jiri to EBC trek is a rewarding and enriching alternative to the steadier, busier Lukla route.
Gokyo Lakes via Cho La Pass Route
An alternative trek to EBC through Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass is an amazing and adventurous trek. After reaching Namche Bazaar, the trail splits off west towards the quiet and stunning Gokyo Valley. This area is home to a chain of glacial lakes and is surrounded by some of the most jaw-dropping peaks in the Himalayas. Trekkers typically ascend Gokyo Ri (5,357m), which has one of the best panoramic views in the region, including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. This continues from Gokyo over the intimidating but beautiful Cho La Pass (5,420m) before joining the main Everest Base Camp trail close to Lobuche. This route is more physically demanding and it requires solid acclimatization, but it is ideal for those looking for fewer crowds, more dramatic landscapes, and an overall deeper experience. It usually tacks on 3–5 days to the classic itinerary. It’s also icy and steep at the Cho La Pass, so it’s recommended for trekkers who have at least some high-altitude experience or who are accompanied by a guide. For a blend of solitude, adventure, and grand scenery, the Gokyo Lakes route via Cho La Pass makes for an unforgettable Himalayan trek.
Everest Base Camp via Three Passes Trek
Everest Base Camp Treks The Three Passes Trek is dubbed the ultimate trekking challenge in the Everest region, providing a full circuit of adventure, isolation, and amazing mountain views. Not to mention, it goes over the three high-altitude passes of the Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,360m). Thus, starting from Lukla, the trail takes a route through Namche Bazaar, breaks into various valleys, and later connects to the Everest Base Camp main trail. The hike includes all of the big hits — Gokyo Lakes, Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar — as well as remote Sherpa villages that most trekkers never experience. Typically, this route takes 18–21 days, though it is perfect for seasoned trekkers who are in great shape and have altitude experience. Every pass brings its difficulties, from steep climbs to icy descents, but the rewards are tremendous. You’ll experience breathtaking views of the Himalaya and stretches of solitude even during busier seasons. The Three Passes Trek is more than just a trek to Everest Base Camp — it’s a trek around the entire Everest region and a self-discovery of your limits. If you are seeking a hardy, complete Himalayan excursion with a strong sense of personal accomplishment, this trek is as epic an adventure as you’ll find in Nepal.
Arun Valley Route to EBC
The Arun Valley route is one of the least trekked routes to Everest Base Camp and, as such, is great for trekkers who prefer solitude and a more classic trek experience 1. Beginning at Tumlingtar, the route weaves through the verdant and varied Arun Valley before joining the classic EBC route by Lukla or Namche Bazaar. With fewer tourists and unspoiled scenes of nature, this area is teeming with wildlife and cultural diversity. Trekkers traverse subtropical forests, terraced hills , and isolated settlements of ethnic groups such as the Rai and Sherpa who cohabitate with the land. The Arun Valley route provides ample time for acclimatization and superb views of peaks such as Makalu and Everest from different aspects. But this route is more challenging logistically and physically — it features prolonged, steep climbs and descents, and lodges may be more basic than on the main trail. It’s most appropriate for those in good shape, with ample time to spare (usually 20–22 days) and a hankering for adventure outside the standard itinerary. In short, if you want to see the real Himalayas in a more solitary fashion before joining the masses on the EBC trek, then the Arun Valley trek is an undiscovered treasure that should not be overlooked.
From Phaplu to Everest Base Camp
Mount Everest Base Camp Trek Phaplu to Everest Base Camp is a quieter, more scenic option for those wishing to skip the hectic flight to Lukla. Unlike flying directly to the high-altitude airport, trekkers start their journey from the small town of Phaplu in the Solu region with either a drive or a short flight. From there, the trail weaves through picturesque Sherpa villages, lush forests, and rolling hills before eventually merging with the classic EBC route near Namche Bazaar. This route adds approximately 4–6 days to the standard trek, which is perfect for those with more time and looking for a more gradual altitude increase. The Phaplu route also presents more opportunities for cultural immersion as you pass through less-touristed areas where people carry out traditional lifestyles. Shelters and amenities are more rudimentary in the beginning and become more developed as you enter the main trail. It’s an excellent option for trekkers seeking a more low-key beginning to the EBC experience, and it facilitates more natural acclimatization. While it’s longer, it’s also more economical and less dependent on the weather than flying to Lukla, so it is a gratifying alternative for patient and culturally curious trekkers.
Helicopter Trek + Fly-Out Option
As such, the helicopter trek and fly-out option to Everest base camp is becoming a more common hybrid of trekking and a helicopter return experience. Trekkers generally follow the popular route between Lukla and Base Camp, often taking 8–10 days to soak up all the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Khumbu region. Instead of walking back to the same spot on your route to Everest Base Camp or Kala Patthar, you step onto the blade-wielding vehicle and land back in Lukla or Kathmandu in under an hour. This option is great for people with tight schedules or for anyone looking to avoid the physical demand of the return hike. It’s also an amazing opportunity to see the Himalayas from the air, which is a breathtaking experience featuring bird’s-eye views of Mount Everest, glaciers, and expansive alpine tundra. More costly but cuts days off total trekking time, so it can be a safety net if altitude sickness or fatigue hits. Many travelers also select this as a celebratory finale to a long trek. If you have limited time but are keen to experience the complete EBC experience — with a touch of luxury — then the helicopter fly-out is well worth considering.
Cada Ruta Enfatiza el Escénico y lo Cultural
Everest Base Camp Every route to Everest Base Camp has its combination of natural beauty and cultural richness. The classic Lukla route offers well-trodden trails, marquee stops like Namche Bazaar and Tengboche Monastery, and views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. The Jiri route is verdant and pastoral, leading you through terraced fields and into rural villages along the way, providing a deeper cultural experience for an authentic peek at the everyday lifestyle of traditional Nepalese people. The Gokyo Lakes trek dazzles with surreal blue glacial lakes, fewer crowds, and magnificent views from Gokyo Ri. The Three Passes Trek is the best for breathtaking mountain scenery and high-altitude adventure, traversing hidden valleys and three towering Himalayan passes. The Arun Valley and Phaplu routes can be less developed, with opportunities to get off the beaten path and experience beautiful biodiversity that will make your acquaintance, and a slower ascent will increase acclimatization. The sights along the helicopter trek/fly-out route are no less, but also what can’t be beat: the thrill of an aerial tour. The Jiri or Arun Valley routes shine if you prefer cultural depth. For sweeping views and unique landscapes, Gokyo or the Three Passes is unrivaled. The classic route is also the most social and maybe the most convenient, but the heli option suits those who favour comfort and speed with a wow-factor finale.
Which Route is Best for You? (Comparison Guide)
Which Trek You Take to Everest Base Camp Is a Matter of Fitness, Time, Budget, and Trekking Goals. Here’s a quick comparison to aid your decision:
- Classic EBC (through Lukla): Best for first-timers. Provides plenty of scenery, support, and accessibility. Takes 12–14 days.
- Jiri to EBC: Most Cultural immersion and gradual acclimatization. Longer (18–21 days), more physically demanding.
- Gokyo via Cho La Pass: The best choice for photographers and adventurers. Lakes, peaks, and a difficult high pass add 3–5 days.
- Two Weeks Adventure in the Trek: the best trekkers’ ultimate challenge. Spectacular scenery, a back road, and high adventure. Takes 18–21+ days.
- Similarly, you can take the Arun Valley route remote and quiet of nature, across diverse nature & culture. Combine this with an experienced trekker who has extra time.
- Phaplu Route: Very tranquil start, decent acclimatization. Fewer people and more economical. Takes 16–18 days.
- Heli Trek + Fly-Out: Ideal for time-poor trekkers or anyone keen for a first-class exit. Takes a hit on the wallet , but an experience that is hard to forget.
Every route provides a different angle on Everest. The right one depends on what type of journey you’re after — scenic, cultural, adventurous, or efficient.
Which route is best for Everest Base Camp?
Himalayan Base Camp Trek The best way to get to Everest Base Camp (EBC) depends on your experience, fitness, how much time you have, and whether you want to be alone or have the convenience of teahouses and more people. For most trekkers, the iconic Lukla route is the overall best — it’s well-established (plenty of lodges, guides, and food) and encompasses cultural highlights such as Namche Bazaar and Tengboche Monastery. If you’re looking to explore more remote areas with fewer hikers, the Gokyo Lakes via Cho La Pass route is filled with breathtaking alpine scenery and has a fun, high pass to cross. Ideal for the experienced trekker short on time, the Three Passes Trek offers a core experience of the Himalaya – the full EBC experience plus remote valleys that are less regularly trekked and panoramic peaks. If you want a less commercial and more cultural experience, with a gradual elevation gain, the Jiri or Phaplu options are great alternatives.
Which base camp trek is best?
There are many base camp treks in Nepal, however, the two most popular base camp treks in all of Nepal are through Everest Base Camp (EBC) and Annapurna Base Camp (ABC). EBC Trek is well known, in the upper elevation, and surrounded by the world’s tallest peaks like Mount Everest. It features dramatic landscapes, glacial rivers, and high Himalayan culture. But it’s also harder and needs better acclimatization.
ABC , however, is more accessible (takes less time, 7–10 nights) and peaks at a lower altitude (max ~4,130m). It includes gorgeous forests, waterfalls, and breathtaking views of Annapurna I and Machapuchare, among other peaks.
So, your best option for adventure challenge and prestige lies with EBC. If you are looking for ease, comfort, and rich variety, ABC is probably the better match.
Which is better, EBC or ABC?
It all depends on what you want:
FeatureEverest Base Camp (EBC)Annapurna Base Camp (ABC)AltitudeHigher (5,364m)Lower (4,130m)DifficultyMore difficultModerate SceneryIncredible, dramatic & glacialLush forests & alpine meadowsCulturalIntertwined with Sherpa & Tibetan BuddhistTradition of Gurung & Magar communitiesPopularityInternationally famousQuieter, particularly at shoulder seasonsTrek Duration12 to 14+ days7 to 10 daysWeather riskFlight delays into LuklaRoad access to the start of the trail
Verdict: Go EBC for the legendary experience and Himalayan grandeur, ABC for a shorter, gentler but still stunning trek.
What is the best route to climb Mount Everest?
Everest Base Camps Reaching the summit of Mount Everest (8,848.86m) is a different experience from hiking to Base Camp. The most popular and accessible route to the summit of Everest is the south col route via Nepal. It starts with a hike to Everest Base Camp, then acclimatization and a climb through four primary camps:
- Base Camp (5,364m)
- Camp I (6,065m) – on the way to the Khumbu Icefall
- Camp II (6,500m) – Western Cwm
- The Lhotse Face — Camp III (7,470m)
- Camp IV (7,920m) – South Col
- Summit Push (8,848m) – through South Summit and Hillary Step
This is the preferred route because it is logistically supported by Sherpas and relatively safer than the North Ridge Route from Nepal, which is technically more complicated and logistically more limited.
Climbing Everest is a costly, months-long endeavor that must be done through permits, with experienced guides and proper acclimatization (typically totaling $30,000–$60,000+). No one goes on a trek—it’s an expedition.