Mount
Everest
Mount Everest is Earth's highest mountain above sea level, located in the Mahalangur Himal sub-range of the Himalayas, just on the Nepal side of the China–Nepal border. The summit of Mount Everest sits at 8,848m (29,031ft).
​
The summit of Mount Everest attracts many climbers, most of whom are highly experienced mountaineers. While not posing substantial technical climbing challenges on the standard route, Everest presents dangers such as altitude sickness, adverse weather, and wind, as well as hazards from avalanches and the Khumbu Icefall.
The Everest Base Camp trek (11 days) from the Nepal side of the mountain, ending at at an elevation of 5,364 m (17,598 ft), is one of the most popular trekking routes in the Himalayas with trekkers heading there from Lukla Airport (2,846 m (9,337 ft)). Adventurers usually fly from Kathmandu to Lukla to save time, and energy, before beginning the trek to the base camp. There are no roads from Kathmandu all the way to Lukla, so flying is the preferred option, or a fly / drive to Phaplu followed by a 3 day trek to Lukla from there is another route to consider.
From Lukla, climbers trek upward to the Sherpa capital of Namche Bazaar, 3,440 metres (11,290 ft) (arriving there after 2 days trekking), following the valley of the Dudh Kosi river. Typically at 'Namche', trekkers will allow a day of rest for acclimatization, followed by another two days trekking to Dingboche, 4,260 metres (13,980 ft) before resting for another day for further acclimatization. Most trekkers use the traditional trail via Tengboche monastery, but recently, the high trail via Mong La and Phortse has gained popularity due to the impressive views it offers. Another two days takes them to Everest Base Camp via Lobouche and Gorakshep, the flat field below Kala Patthar, 5,545 metres (18,192 ft) - which overlooks EBC, and provides commanding views of the glacial approach route to the summit of Everest itself.
​
The trail is moderate to fairly challenging and makes numerous river crossings over steel / wire and wooden suspension bridges. Tea houses and lodges along the route are available for meals and accommodation. Some groups may opt for tents but these are typically only used for side trips away from lodges such as climbing a peak.
