PHAPLU EVEREST BASE CAMP TREK

  • DURATION20 Days
  • DIFFICULTY-LEVELStrenuous
  • GROUP SIZE1-14
  • MAX ALTITUDE5545

Highlights

  • Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Phaplu
  • Trek through the Sagarmatha National Park
  • Explore Namche Bazar
  • Visit the oldest and the biggest monastery of the Khumbu region
  • Reach Everest Base Camp
  • Witness gorgeous sunrise from Kala Patthar
  • Get to see panoramic views of the Himalayas and stunning scenery
  • Scenic flight from Lukla to Kathmandu

Trip Overview

Phaplu Everest Base Camp Trek follows a classic route that leads to Everest Base Camp, the lap of the world's highest mountain through dense forests and fine villages.

If you want to spend more time in the Khumbu region and traverse the hidden corners that only a handful of travelers come in contact with the Phaplu Everest Base Camp Trek is the best option for you.

Following the classic route or we can say the traditional route, you slowly move towards Everest Base Camp. After a drive from Kathmandu to Phaplu, you follow an adventurous trail that passes by numerous lush forests and settlement areas. Phaplu Everest Base Camp trek is an alternative route to regular Everest Base Camp Trek.

The best thing about Phaplu Everest Base Camp Trek is that there is no drastic change in the attitude that usually happens if done the regular EBC Trek. You gain elevation gradually over time allowing your body enough time to adjust with the elevation during the Phaplu Everest Base Camp Trek.

The Phaplu Everest Base Camp Trek goes through terraced fields, crossing small passes and numerous suspension bridges over streams & rivers to reach Namche Bazar, the tourist hub of the Khumbu region.

Visit the oldest and the biggest monastery of the Khumbu region, Tengboche monastery, you move towards EBC. The trail will further take you to Kala Patthar from where you get to see excellent sunrise.

Phaplu Everest Base Camp Trek 20 Days overall is a fantastic journey in the Himalayas that allows you to unwind yourself and take you away from the chaotic cities. On the trail, you will find yourself very close to nature and enjoy the simple mountain lifestyle. To know more about the Phaplu Everest Base Camp Trek package read below. You can also get in touch with us with any questions.

Things to See & Experience on Phaplu Everest Base Camp Trek

Scenic flight from Lukla to Kathmandu

You take a scenic flight from Lukla to Kathmandu. The flight will be short and scenic. You get to see an aerial view of beautiful valleys, dense forests, and fine villages.

Trek through the Sagarmatha National Park

From Monjo village onwards, the trail goes through Sagarmatha National Park, which is listed in UNESCO Natural Heritage Sites. The trail covers many small villages, numerous streams, and dense forests.

Sagarmatha national park is the habitat of many flora and fauna, therefore you get to see a variety of alpine vegetation on the way.

Explore Namche Bazar

Namche Bazar is the biggest Sherpa residence and the most developed village in the Khumbu region. In this village, you get to spend a couple of nights that help you in acclimatization.

There are so many things to do in Namche Bazar. You can visit the Sherpa Culture Museum and Everest Photo Gallery. Likewise, there are also many options for short excursions to places like Syangboche Airstrip, Everest View Hotel, Khumjung village, etc.

Visit the oldest and the biggest monastery of the Khumbu region

Tengboche village houses the Tengboche monastery, which is known as the oldest and the biggest monastery of the region. It is the most important monastery for the locals. Many major events and festivals are celebrated here every year.

Tengboche monastery also used to be the home of hundreds of monks. Established in 1961 by Lama Gulu, the Tengboche monastery got reconstructed twice after this.

Reach Everest Base Camp

Everest Base Camp is the base of the world's tallest mountain, Mt. Everest (8,848 m). Reaching the EBC is a huge accomplishment that one can have in their life. From Everest Base Camp, you can see astonishing views of the Himalayan Mountains and glaciers.

Witness gorgeous sunrise from Kala Patthar

Kala Patthar viewpoint is a very famous place in the Khumbu region to see a gorgeous sunrise. Located above Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar also offers 360-degree views of Everest and surrounding mountains.

Get to see panoramic views of the Himalayas and stunning scenery

Everest Base Camp Trek offers striking views of Himalayan mountains like Mt. Everest (8,848 m), Mt. Lhotse (8,516 m), Mt. Nuptse (7,861 m), Mt. Pumori (7,161 m), Mt. Ama Dablam (6,812 m), Mt. Thamserku (6,623 m), Mt. Kantega (6,782 m), Mt. Baruntse (7,129 m), etc. Along with that, you will also get to see stunning views of glaciers and moraines.

Itinerary

Open All DaysClose All

You get picked up by our airport representative from the airport terminal gate. He take you to the hotel and brief you about the day program.

You have the entire day to rest and gear yourself up for the upcoming adventure.

  • Hotel
  • No Meals
  • 1345
  • Kathmandu

Today, you go on a guided sightseeing tour of many UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu.

You explore monkey temple, Kathmandu Durbar Squire, Bouddhnath Stupa, and Pashupatinath temple.

All of these heritage sites will showcase to you the rich culture and precise architecture of ancient Nepali time.

  • Hotel
  • B
  • 1345
  • Kathmandu

You drive to Phaplu by a local jeep from Kathmandu. The drive is long and adventurous, which goes by the Madhya Pahadi highway. Phaplu is a small town high up in the Himalayas with an airstrip.

Note: There is no regular flight from Kathmandu to Phaplu, However, we can find a flight sometimes only, so, let us know your date So, We can search for the flight.

  • Guest House
  • B, L, D
  • 2300
  • Phaplu

You trek towards Nunthala today. The trail includes many ascends and descends through small settlement areas. Reach Nunthala overnight at guest house.

  • Guest House
  • B, L, D
  • 2190
  • Nunthala

Leaving Nunthala behind, you descend to the Dudh Koshi River and cross it. Following another side of the river, you trek and further, pass through beautiful terraced fields.

The trail then descends through the steep forested path to Chautara. From here, you trek through lush forests and pass by Jubing (1,667 m). Further, you ascend and continue walking to Khari Khola (2,004 m). A steep ascent from here takes you to Bupsa Danda.

  • Guest House
  • B, L, D
  • 2340
  • Bupsa Danda

From Bupsa Danda, you ascend to Bhumsing (2,300 m) and continue trekking through a tributary.

The trail passes by lush forests of oak and rhododendron and descends. You cross a tributary and move along the north side of the valley to Puiyan (2,796 m).

  • Guest House
  • B, L, D
  • 2730
  • Puiyan

You ascend to a ridge (2,800 m) and continue to another one from where the trail descends to Surke (2,293 m).

You encircle the village cross a bridge and head north towards Chaurikharka. Crossing a deep gorge, you pass by a high waterfall and reach Phakding.

  • Guest House
  • B, L, D
  • 2310
  • Phakding

The trail from Phakding moves along Dudh Koshi River crossing it many times. You trek through Sagarmatha National Park, where you get to see numerous unique vegetation.

The trail includes many lovely villages and steeply ascends to Namche Bazar through lush forest.

  • Guest House
  • B, L, D
  • 3440
  • Namche Bazaar

Today is your rest day in Namche Bazar. You begin the day with a warm delicious breakfast and go on a short hike to nearby areas like Everest View Hotel or Syangboche Airstrip from where you get to see stunning views of Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Thamserku, etc. Later, you can also visit the Sherpa Culture Museum and Everest Photo Gallery.

  • Guest House
  • B, L, D
  • 3440
  • Namche Bazaar

Leaving Namche Bazar, you trek towards Tengboche. The trail descends to Kayangjuma and takes you to Sanasa. From here, you walk through lush forests of rhododendron and pine. Crossing a bridge over the Dudh Koshi River, you reach Phunki Tenga.

The trail then steeply ascends through dense forests and takes you to Tengboche. Tengboche welcomes you with superb views of snow-capped mountains and the oldest monastery of the Khumbu region, Tengboche monastery.

  • Guest House
  • B, L, D
  • 3860
  • Tengboche

The day begins with a short descent through a lovely rhododendron forest to the Imja Khola. You cross a thrilling suspension bridge and pass by a long mani wall.

Further, trekking through Pangboche and pastures, you reach Dingboche.

  • Guest House
  • B, L, D
  • 4410
  • Dingboche

Today is another much-needed acclimatization day. You rest and regain your energy. You can go on a short hike to a nearby ridge or hill to observe stunning views and adjust your body to the altitude.

It is also a good time to look into the daily lifestyle of locals and chit-chat with them.

  • Guest House
  • B, L, D
  • 4410
  • Dingboche

From Dingboche, you ascend in the north and come across a stupa. From here, the trail continues and offers wonderful views of Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Pokalde, Mt. Tawache, Mt. Nuptse, and many other mountains. Passing through Dugla (4,595 m).

You cross a small wooden bridge and ascend to Lobuche.

  • Guest House
  • B, L, D
  • 4910
  • Lobuche

Trekking along rocky moraine dunes, you descend and reach Gorakshep. On the way, you get to see stunning views of glacial ponds and icebergs.

Taking a short lunch break at Gorakshep, you ascend to Everest Base Camp. Upon reaching the base camp, you get to see panoramic views of the Himalayas. Spend some time and return to Gorak Shep for a night's stay.

  • Guest House
  • B, L, D
  • 5360
  • Gorakshep

Today, you ascend to the famous Kala Patthar viewpoint to enjoy the gorgeous sunrise over the Himalayan Mountains. From Kala Patthar, you get to see 360-degree views of Mt. Everest and many other surrounding mountains.

Later, you retrace the path and descend to Pheriche.

  • Guest House
  • B, L, D
  • 5545
  • Pheriche

Leaving Pheriche behind, you begin trekking back to Namche Bazar. The trail will easily descend through lush forests and villages.

Likewise, you see beautiful views of Mt. Ama Dablam, lush green hills, and a river on the way.

  • Guest House
  • B, L, D
  • 3440
  • Namche Bazaar

It is your last trekking day, and the trail is the same as before. You descend through dense forests, crossing several bridges from Namche. Passing by Phakding, you ascend to Lukla following a stream.

  • Guest House
  • B, L, D
  • 3840
  • Lukla

After having the last breakfast of the trek, you fly back to Kathmandu. The flight is scenic. Upon landing at the airport, you move to the hotel.

The rest of the day is free for you and you can relax and explore around.

  • Hotel
  • B
  • 1345
  • Kathmandu

This is a buffer day to use, if we need on a trek or if there is any delay or cancelation on our flight to Lukla and return. It may happen sometimes due to bad weather.

You can take your time to visit tourist sites such as Bhaktapur - Patan Tour Or stroll on the vibrant streets of Thamel, and you can also buy souvenirs to take back with you to your friends & families.

If you want we can also arrange a guided sightseeing tour for you.

  • Hotel
  • B
  • 1340
  • Kathmandu

Today is your last day in Kathmandu, and you will be transferred to the international airport for your final departure to your home or your next destination.

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What's Included

  • Airport transfers
  • Four nights’ hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast
  • Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu
  • Meals during the trek with hot tea/coffee in breakfast as per the itinerary
  • Sagarmatha national park entry permits and TIMS
  • Local Jeep drive from Kathmandu to Phaplu
  • Flight fare (Lukla-Kathmandu) with domestic airport tax
  • Eleven nights’ accommodation lodges/tea houses during the trek on twin sharing
  • A guide and porters (1 porter for every two trekkers)
  • Arrangement of emergency helicopter service, which will be paid by your travel insurance company
  • Sleeping bag, down jackets, and duffle bag, if necessary (returned after the trek)

What's Excluded

  • Nepal entry visa fee
  • Travel insurance (compulsory)
  • Food (lunch and dinner) while you are in Kathmandu
  • Your personnel expenses/shopping, entrance fees on the Kathmandu tour.
  • All the alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks
  • Sweet things like chocolate bars and bar bills
  • Hot shower, internet, telephone, and laundry
  • International airfare
  • Tips for the guide and staff
  • Anything not mentioned in the included section

Useful Information

Phaplu Everest Base Camp Trek itinerary

You take a drive flight from Kathmandu to Phaplu. From here, the trail ascends to Nunthala and continues walking towards Phakding via Bupsa Danda and Puiyan.

The trail then passes through dense forests, crossing several streams, and leads to Namche Bazar. From here, you gradually ascend through lush forests of rhododendron and small villages to reach Everest Base Camp and hike up to Kala Patthar.

Phaplu Everest Base Camp Trek difficulty

Phaplu Everest Base Camp Trek is a moderate trek perfect for any trekker with or without trekking experience

However, the trail can get a little tough for new trekkers because of many ascends & descends on steep and rugged paths. You have to walk 6 to 7 hours a day, which requires sound health and good physical fitness.

Best time to go on Phaplu Everest Base Camp Trek

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to December) is the most desirable time to go on Phaplu Everest Base Camp Trek.

These are the most chosen time to go on this trek as the weather generally remains constant. Likewise, the clear sky and mild climate make the journey joyous and view outstanding.

Accommodation on Phaplu Everest Base Camp Trek

You stay overnight in the guesthouse during Phaplu Everest Base Camp Trek. The rooms come with twin beds, which you have to share with a fellow trekker. Likewise, the services in the guesthouse are limited due to the remoteness of the region. The washroom is usually common with the availability of a hot shower.

Meals on Phaplu Everest Base Camp Trek

You can find quite a good variation in the menu at a lower elevation. Dishes like momo, noodles, pasta, pizza, sandwiches, pastries, coffee, tea, etc. can be found in Namche Bazar.

As the elevation increase, the menu also gets limited and expensive. The meals are served by the menu of the teahouse/lodge you are staying in.

Equipment List for Phaplu Everest Base Camp Trek

As you are going for Phaplu to Everest Base Camp Trek, you need to have adequate trekking gear/equipment to have successful Trek. The trekking gear plays a vital role for comfortable trekking and Successful Trek in the Himalayas. Find the list of gear that you need for Phaplu Everest Base Camp Trek.

General

  • Four seasons Sleeping bag (Optional), we can provide you one if required
  • Duffel or Rucksack bag to keep all gear, which will be carried by the porter.
  • Daypack for yourself to keep your things such as a camera, water, and things that you need for the day.
  • A down Jacket (we provide you one if you do not have
  • Shade hat
  • Warm wool hat to cover your ears
  • A pair of light-weight warm gloves
  • T-shirts 2-3 pieces
  • Lightweight thermal tops
  • Fleece jacket
  • Wind-Stopper jacket (optional)
  • A pair of quick-drying nylon hiking shorts
  • Two pairs of trekking pants, preferably that zip on/off at the knees
  • Four pairs of warm socks
  • A pair of light to medium weight waterproof hiking/trekking boots
  • A pair of light trekking shoes or sandals for camp/lodges
  • A water bottle
  • Head/torch Light
  • A medium-size towel
  • Walking poles (optional)

Medicines and First Aid Kits

  • We recommend consulting with your doctor for medication suggestions to take for these regions.

Miscellaneous but Important

  • Passport and extra passport photos (4 copies), these extra passport photos are necessary to obtain the trekking permits.
  • Durable wallet/pouch for travel documents, money & passport.
  • Lip balm at least SPF 20, 2 sticks.
  • Sun cream with SPF 40
  • Water purification Iodine tablets (optional)
  • Toiletry kit and be sure to include toilet paper stored in a plastic bag, hand wipes, and liquid hand sanitizer, towel, soap, etc.